10 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA


SECURITIES &AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549


______________

FORM 10-Q

______________

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


For the Quarterly Period Ended Junequarterly period ended September 30, 2005


2005.

Or


o oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


For the Transition Period From __________totransition period from ____________ to ____________.

___________

Commission file number 2-81353

______________

CENTER BANCORP, INC.


(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

______________

New Jersey

52-1273725

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

 

2455 Morris Avenue,
Union, New Jersey

07083

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip Code)

(908) 688-9500

(Registrant’s telephone number,
including area code)

(908) 688-9500
 (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d)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.


YesýNo No¨o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-12 of the Exchange Act).


YesýNo No¨o


Common stock, no par value:

13,426,04213,428,628

 (Title

(Title of Class)

(Outstanding at July 29,October 31, 2005)

1




CENTER BANCORP, INC.


INDEX TO FORM 10-Q



PART I. 
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Page

Part I.

 

Financial Information

Page

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements

 

Consolidated Statements of Condition at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 (unaudited) and
December 31, 2004 (audited)

4

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Income for the Three and Six months ended JuneNine Months
Ended September 30, 2005 and 2004 (unaudited)

5

 

 

Consolidated Statement of Changes in StockholdersStockholders’ Equity for the year
Nine Months ended September 30, 2004 and 2005.2005 (unaudited)

6

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Six monthsNine Months ended June
September 30, 2005 and 2004 (unaudited)

7

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

8-12

8-13

 

 

Item 2.

Management's

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations

13-28

13-32

 

 

Item 3.

Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures aboutAbout Market Risks

29

32

 

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

29

33

 

 

PARTPart II.

OTHER INFORMATIONOther Information

 

 

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

30

33

 

 

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

33

 

Item 6.

 

Exhibits

33

 
Item 6.

Exhibits

Signatures

34

 

 
Signatures
31

Certifications

 
Certifications33-36


2



PART I-I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION


The following unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X, and, accordingly, do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. statements. However, in the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the three and sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year ending December 31, 2005, or for any other interim period. The consolidated financial statements included in the Center Bancorp, Inc. 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K should be read in conjunction with these statements.



3




PART 1 - FINANCIAL STATEMENTItem 1. Financial Statements

Center Bancorp, Inc. and SubsidiariesCENTER BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONDITION

 

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

 

 

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and due from banks

     

$

26,008

     

$

12,033

 

Investment securities held to maturity (approximate market value of $146,503 in 2005 and $127,898 in 2004)

 

 

145,409

 

 

124,162

 

Investment securities available-for-sale

 

 

437,737

 

 

453,524

 

Total investment securities

 

 

583,146

 

 

577,686

 

Loans held for sale

  

260

  

 

Loans, net of unearned income

 

 

502,546

 

 

377,304

 

Less-allowance for loan losses

 

 

4,989

 

 

3,781

 

Net loans

 

 

497,817

 

 

373,523

 

Premises and equipment, net

 

 

18,354

 

 

17,622

 

Accrued interest receivable

 

 

5,874

 

 

4,533

 

Bank owned life insurance

 

 

18,400

 

 

17,848

 

Other assets

 

 

5,708

 

 

3,679

 

Goodwill and other intangible assets

 

 

17,448

 

 

2,091

 

Total assets

 

$

1,172,755

 

$

1,009,015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deposits:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-interest-bearing

 

$

138,360

 

$

127,226

 

Interest-bearing:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit $100,000 and over

 

 

118,235

 

 

163,810

 

Interest-bearing transaction demand, savings and time deposits $100,000 and less

 

 

424,683

 

 

411,236

 

Total deposits

 

 

681,278

 

 

702,272

 

Short-term borrowings

 

 

202,542

 

 

101,357

 

Long-term borrowings

 

 

167,959

 

 

115,000

 

Subordinated debentures

 

 

15,465

 

 

15,465

 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

 

5,443

 

 

6,278

 

Total liabilities

 

 

1,072,687

 

 

940,372

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred Stock, no par value: Authorized 5,000,000 shares; none issued

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

Common Stock, no par value: Authorized 20,000,000 shares; issued 14,467,962 and 11,475,446 shares in 2005 and 2004, respectively

 

 

65,592

 

 

30,441

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

 

3,782

 

 

4,477

 

Retained earnings

 

 

37,741

 

 

36,973

 

Treasury stock at cost (1,039,334 and 1,056,972 shares in 2005 and 2004, respectively)

 

 

(3,712

)    

 

(3,775

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)/income

 

 

(3,335

)    

 

527

 

Total stockholders’ equity

 

 

100,068

 

 

68,643

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

1,172,755

 

$

1,009,015

 


  
June 30,  
 
 December 31,
 
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
  
(unaudited)
   
ASSETS
     
Cash and due from banks $32,001 $12,033 
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreement to resell  0  0 
Total cash and cash equivalents $32,001  12,033 
Investment securities held to maturity (approximate market value of $154,017 in 2005 and $127,898 in 2004)
  151,088  124,162 
Investment securities available-for-sale  436,670  453,524 
Total investment securities  587,758  577,686 
Loans, net of unearned income  498,602  377,304 
Less--Allowance for loan losses  4,995  3,781 
Net loans  493,607  373,523 
Premises and equipment, net  18,110  17,622 
Accrued interest receivable  5,649  4,533 
Bank owned life insurance  18,215  17,848 
Other assets  5,749  3,679 
Goodwill and other intangible assets  17,479  2,091 
Total assets
 $1,178,568 $1,009,015 
        
LIABILITIES
       
Deposits:       
Non-interest-bearing $148,742 $127,226 
Interest-bearing:       
Certificates of deposit $100,000 and over  118,126  163,810 
Interest-bearing transaction demand, savings and time deposits $100,000 and less  
454,338
  
411,236
 
Total deposits  721,206  702,272 
Short-term borrowings  164,934  101,357 
Long-term borrowings  168,555  115,000 
Subordinated debentures  15,465  15,465 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  6,724  6,278 
Total liabilities  1,076,884  940,372 
        
Commitments and contingencies       
        
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
       
Preferred Stock, no par value, Authorized 5,000,000 shares; None Issued
  0  0 
Common stock, no par value: Authorized 20,000,000 shares; issued 14,467,962 and 11,475,446 shares in 2005 and 2004, respectively
  
65,592
  
30,441
 
Additional paid in capital  3,775  4,477 
Retained earnings  37,081  36,973 
Treasury stock at cost (1,041,920 and 1,056,972 shares in 2005 and 2004, respectively)
  (3,721) (3,775)
Restricted stock  0  0 
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)/income  (1,043) 527 
Total stockholders’ equity  101,684  68,643 
 Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 $1,178,568 $1,009,015 

All per common share amounts have been adjusted retroactively for common stock splits and common stock dividends impacting the periods presented.


SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

4



Center Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries

CENTER BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Nine Months Ended

 

 

 

September 30,

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

2005

 

2004

 

  

(unaudited)

 
  

(in thousands, except per share data)

 

Interest income:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest and fees on loans

 

$

7,044

     

$

4,705

     

$

18,005

     

$

13,571

 

Interest and dividends on investment securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taxable interest income

 

 

4,824

 

 

4,167

 

 

14,247

 

 

12,267

 

Non-taxable interest income

 

 

989

 

 

925

 

 

2,954

 

 

2,658

 

Dividends

 

 

717

 

 

324

 

 

1,632

 

 

927

 

Interest on Federal funds sold and securities
purchased under agreement to resell

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

29

 

 

0

 

Total interest income

 

 

13,574

 

 

10,121

 

 

36,867

 

 

29,423

 

Interest expense:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest on certificates of deposit $100,000 and over

 

 

820

 

 

345

 

 

2,806

 

 

538

 

Interest on other deposits

 

 

2,105

 

 

1,490

 

 

5,561

 

 

4,692

 

Interest on borrowings

 

 

3,494

 

 

1,696

 

 

8,081

 

 

4,721

 

Total interest expense

 

 

6,419

 

 

3,531

 

 

16,448

 

 

9,951

 

Net interest income

 

 

7,155

 

 

6,590

 

 

20,419

 

 

19,472

 

Provision for loan losses

 

 

0

 

 

205

 

 

0

 

 

615

 

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

 

 

7,155

 

 

6,385

 

 

20,419

 

 

18,857

 

Other income:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service charges, commissions and fees

 

 

501

 

 

513

 

 

1,471

 

 

1,471

 

Other income

 

 

235

 

 

133

 

 

490

 

 

344

 

Annuity & insurance

 

 

49

 

 

5

 

 

163

 

 

25

 

Bank owned life insurance

 

 

185

 

 

188

 

 

552

 

 

546

 

Gain on securities sold

 

 

326

 

 

0

 

 

362

 

 

157

 

Total other income

 

 

1,296

 

 

839

 

 

3,038

 

 

2,543

 

Other expense:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Salaries and employee benefits

 

 

3,168

 

 

2,685

 

 

9,049

 

 

7,963

 

Occupancy, net

 

 

575

 

 

455

 

 

1,587

 

 

1,477

 

Premises and equipment

 

 

499

 

 

457

 

 

1,440

 

 

1,377

 

Stationery and printing

 

 

156

 

 

127

 

 

458

 

 

423

 

Marketing and advertising

 

 

183

 

 

112

 

 

515

 

 

408

 

Other

 

 

1,356

 

 

914

 

 

3,650

 

 

2,997

 

Total other expense

 

 

5,937

 

 

4,750

 

 

16,699

 

 

14,645

 

Income before income tax expense

 

 

2,514

 

 

2,474

 

 

6,758

 

 

6,755

 

Income tax expense

 

 

478

 

 

457

 

 

1,044

 

 

1,232

 

Net income

 

$

2,036

 

$

2,017

 

$

5,714

 

$

5,523

 

Earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

$

.15

 

$

.21

 

$

.49

 

$

.59

 

Diluted

 

$

.15

 

$

.21

 

$

.49

 

$

.58

 

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

 

13,427,251

 

 

9,485,531

 

 

11,607,358

 

 

9,435,458

 

Diluted

 

 

13,472,086

 

 

9,529,997

 

 

11,651,521

 

 

9,497,921

 

(Unaudited) 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
  
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Interest income:
         
Interest and fees on loans $5,928 $4,490 $10,961 $8,866 
Interest and dividends on investment securities:             
Taxable interest income  4,935  4,119  9,423  8,099 
Non-taxable interest income  992  853  1,965  1,733 
Dividends  465  270  915  604 
Interest on Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreement to resell
  17  0  29  0 
Total interest income  12,337  9,732  23,293  19,302 
Interest expense:
             
Interest on certificates of deposit $100,000 and over  987  92  1,986  193 
Interest on other deposits  1,896  1,561  3,456  3,202 
Interest on borrowings  2,605  1,580  4,587  3,025 
Total interest expense  5,488  3,233  10,029  6,420 
Net interest income  6,849  6,499  13,264  12,882 
Provision for loan losses  0  205  0  410 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses  6,849  6,294  13,264  12,472 
Other income:
             
Service charges, commissions and fees  475  477  970  958 
Other income  159  109  255  211 
Annuity & Insurance  72  12  114  20 
Bank Owned Life Insurance  185  192  367  358 
Gain on securities sold  23  31  36  157 
Total other income  914  821  1,742  1,704 
Other expense:
             
Salaries and employee benefits  3,004  2,641  5,881  5,278 
Occupancy, net  442  459  1,012  1,022 
Premises and equipment  483  475  941  920 
Stationery and printing  181  144  302  296 
Marketing and advertising  160  147  332  296 
Other  1,153  1,038  2,294  2,083 
Total other expense  5,423  4,904  10,762  9,895 
Income before income tax expense  2,340  2,211  4,244  4,281 
Income tax expense  407  429  566  775 
Net income $1,933 $1,782 $3,678 $3,506 
Earnings per share: (Note 4)
             
Basic $.18 $.19 $.34 $.37 
Diluted $.18 $.19 $.34 $.37 
Weighted average common shares outstanding:             
Basic  10,962,507  9,422,960  10,697,411  9,410,420 
Diluted  11,005,043  9,482,201  10,741,239  9,481,883 

All per common share amounts have been adjusted retroactively for common stock splits and common stock dividends impacting the periods presented.


SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

5



CENTER BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

  

Common
Stock
Amount

 

Additional
Paid-in
Capital

 

Retained
Earnings

 

Treasury
Stock

 

Restricted
Stock

 

Accumulated
Other
Compre-
hensive
Income

 

Total
Stock-
holders’
Equity

 
  

(in thousands, except share data)

 

Balance, December 31, 2003

 

$

19,405

     

$

4,677

     

$

33,268

     

$

(3,978

)   

$

(14

)   

$

822

     

$

54,180

 

Cash dividend

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,346

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,346

)

Issuance of common stock

 

 

397

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

397

 

Private Placement:

                      

Issuance discount

  

  

  

(545

)    

 

  

  

  

(545

)

Issuance cost

  

  

(542

)

 

  

  

  

  

(542

)

Issuance of common stock

 

 

10,524

  

  

  

  

  

  

10,524

 

Exercise of stock option

 

 

 

 

389

 

 

 

 

195

 

 

 

 

 

 

584

 

Restricted stock award

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14

 

 

 

 

14

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 5,523

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,523

 

Additional minimum pension liability, net of tax

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(14

)    

 

 

Unrealized holding loss on securities arising during the period (net of tax benefit of $86)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(166

)    

 

 

Less reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income (net of tax of $53)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

104

 

 

 

Net unrealized holding loss on securities arising during the period (net of tax of $33)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(76

)    

 

(76

)

Total comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,447

 

Balance, September 30, 2004

 

$

30,326

 

$

4,524

   

$

35,900

 

$

(3,783

)

$

0

 

$

746

 

$

67,713

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, December 31, 2004

 

$

30,441

 

$

4,477

 

$

36,973

 

$

(3,775

)

$

0

 

$

527

 

$

68,643

 

Cash dividend

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3,309

)    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3,309

)

Issuance of common stock

 

 

21,874

 

 

(925

)

 

(1,637

)    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,312

 

Common Stock issued Red Oak Acquisition

  

13,277

  

  

  

  

  

  

13,277

 

Exercise of stock option

 

 

 

 

155

 

 

 

 

32

 

 

 

 

 

 

187

 

Restricted stock award

 

 

 

 

75

 

 

 

 

31

 

 

 

 

 

 

106

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,714

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,714

 

Unrealized holding losses on  securities arising during the period (net of tax of $2,113)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(4,101

)    

 

 

Less reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income (net of tax of $123)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

239

 

 

 

Net unrealized holding losses on securities arising during the period (net of tax of $1,990)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3,862

)    

 

(3,862

)

Total comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,852

 

Balance, September 30, 2005

 

$

65,592

 

$

3,782

   

$

37,741

 

$

(3,712

)

$

0

 

$

(3,335

)

$

100,068

 


5


See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

6



CENTER BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Center Bancorp, Inc. And Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders Equity
(Unaudited)
            Accumulated Total 
  Common Additional       Other Stock- 
  Stock Paid in Retained Treasury Restricted Comprehensive holders' 
(in thousands, except share data) Amount Capital Earnings Stock Stock Income Equity 
Balance, December 31, 2003 $19,405 $4,677 $33,268 $(3,978)$(14)$822 $54,180 
                       
Cash dividend        (1,550)          (1,550)
Issuance of common stock  264                 264 
Exercise of stock option     57     170        227 
Restricted stock award              14     14 
Repurchase of common stock                    0 
Net income       3,506           3,506 
Additional minimum pension liability, net of tax
                 (14) (14)
Unrealized holding loss on securities arising during the period (net of tax benefit of $2,881)
                 (5,593)   
Less reclassification adjustment for loss included in net income (net of tax of $53)
                 103    
Net unrealized holding loss on securities arising during the period (net of tax of $2,828)
                (5,504) (5,504)
Total comprehensive income                    (1,998)
Balance, June 30, 2004
 
$
19,669
 
$
4,734
 
$
35,224
 
$
(3,808
)
$
0
 
$
(4,682
)
$
51,137
 
                       
Balance, December 31, 2004 $30,441 $4,477 $36,973 $(3,775)$0 $527 $68,643 
                       
Cash dividend        (1,933)          (1,933)
Issuance of common stock  21,874  (925) (1,637)          19,312 
Common Stock Issued Red Oak Acquisition
  13,277                 13,277 
Exercise of stock option     148     23        171 
Restricted stock award     75     31  0     106 
Net income       3,678           3,678 
Unrealized holding losses on securities arising during the period (net of tax of $821)
                 (1,594)   
Less reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income (net of tax of $12)
                 24    
Net unrealized holding losses on securities arising during the period (net of tax of $809)
                (1,570) (1,570)
Total comprehensive income                    2,108 
Balance, June 30, 2005
 
$
65,592
 
$
3,775
 
$
37,081
 
$
(3,721
)
$
0
 
$
(1,043
)
$
101,684
 
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
6

Center Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWFLOWS

 

 

Nine Months Ended

 

 

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

  

(unaudited)

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

5,714

     

$

5,523

 

Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

1,348

 

 

1,140

 

Provision for loan losses

 

 

0

 

 

615

 

Gains on sale of investment securities available-for-sale

 

 

(362

)

 

(157

)

Increase in accrued interest receivable

 

 

(1,341

)

 

(458

Decrease/(increase) in other assets

 

 

1,258

 

 

(1,348

)

(Decrease)/increase in other liabilities

 

 

(1,570

)

 

1,944

 

Increase in cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance

 

 

(552

)

 

(546

)

Amortization of premium and accretion of discount on investment securities, net

 

 

348

 

 

655

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

 

4,843

 

 

7,368

 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from maturities and paydown of securities AFS

 

 

242,243

 

 

66,491

 

Proceeds from maturities of investment securities held to maturity

 

 

24,279

 

 

30,029

 

Purchase of FHLB and FRB Stock, net

 

 

(3,159

)

 

(670

)

Proceeds from sales of investment securities available-for-sale

 

 

59,427

 

 

34,501

 

Purchase of securities available-for-sale

 

 

(287,285

)

 

(101,540

)

Purchase of securities held to maturity

 

 

(40,901

)

 

(3,218

)

Net increase in loans

 

 

(34,669

)

 

(29,545

)

Cash and cash equivalents acquired from Red Oak Bank

 

 

2,433

 

 

0

 

Cash consideration paid to acquire Red Oak Bank

 

 

(13,279

 

0

 

Property and equipment expenditures, net

 

 

(1,532

)

 

(2,463

)

Purchase of bank owned life insurance

 

 

0

 

 

(2,500

)

Net cash used in investing activities

 

 

(52,443

)

 

(8,915

)

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net decrease in deposits

 

 

(91,669

)

 

(23,972

Net increase in short term borrowings

 

 

92,685

 

 

32,636

 

Proceeds from FHLB advances

 

 

192,439

 

 

35,000

 

Payments on FHLB advances

 

 

(148,070

)

 

(50,000

)

Dividends paid

 

 

(3,309

)

 

(2,346

)

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

 

 

19,312

 

 

10,393

 

Exercise of stock options

 

 

187

 

 

584

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

 

61,575

 

 

2,295

 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

 

13,975

 

 

748

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

 

 

12,033

 

 

16,509

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

 

$

26,008

 

$

17,257

 

Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest paid on deposits and short-term borrowings

 

$

16,320

 

$

9,801

 

Income taxes

 

$

810

 

$

1,297

 

Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:

at Date of Acquisition

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non cash investing activities:

 

$

5,404

 

 

0

 

Fair value of assets acquired

 

$

113,669

 

 

0

 

Goodwill and core deposit intangible

 

$

15,394

 

 

0

 

Liabilities assumed

 

$

88,518

 

 

 

Common stock issued for the Red Oak Bank acquisition, net

 

$

13,277

 

$

0

 

 
 Six Months Ended
 
(Unaudited)
 
 June 30,
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
     
Net income $3,678 $3,506 
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income To Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities:
       
Depreciation and amortization  851  757 
Provision for loan losses  0  410 
Gains on sale of investment securities available-for-sale  (36) (157)
(Increase) decrease in accrued interest receivable  (1,116) 33 
Decrease (Increase) in other assets  398  (1,525)
Decrease in other liabilities  (304) (780)
Increase in cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance  (367) (358)
Amortization of premium and accretion of discount on investment securities, net  240  507 
Net cash provided by operating activities  3,344  2,393 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
       
Proceeds form maturities and paydown of securities AFS  177,542  48,445 
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities held to maturity  8,325  25,430 
Purchase of FHLB and FRB Stock, net  (2,779) (2,190)
Proceeds from sales of investment securities available-for-sale  48,183  29,275 
Purchase of securities available-for-sale  (207,876) (93,470)
Purchase of securities held to maturity  (30,561) (2,506)
Net increase in loans  (30,459) (16,415)
Cash and cash equivalents acquired from Red Oak  2,433  0 
Cash consideration paid to acquire Red Oak  (13,279 0 
Property and equipment expenditures, net  (844) (1,135)
Purchase of bank owned life insurance  0  (2,500)
Net cash (used in) investing activities  (49,315) (15,066)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
       
Net (decrease) increase in deposits  (51,741) 395 
Net increase in short term borrowings  54,948  29,959 
Proceeds form FHLB advances  152,439  35,000 
Payments on FHLB advances  (107,257) (50,000)
Dividends paid  (1,933) (1,535)
Proceeds form issuance of common stock  19,312  278 
Exercise of stock options  171  227 
Net cash provided by financing activities  65,939  14,324 
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents  19,968  1,651 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year $12,033 $16,509 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $32,001 $18,160 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
       
Interest paid on deposits and short-term borrowings $9,853 $6,403 
Income taxes $615 $637 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
AT DATE OF ACQUISITION
       
Non cash investing activities: $5,404    
Fair value of assets acquired $113,669    
Goodwill and core deposit intangible $15,411    
Liabilities assumed $88,518    
Common stock issued for the Red Oak Bank, acquisition, net $13,277    

SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

7



NOTES TO CONSOLDIATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


NOTE 1: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIESNote 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies


Principles of Consolidation


The consolidated financial statements of Center Bancorp, Inc. (the Corporation) are prepared on the accrual basis and include the accounts of the Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiaries, including Union Center National Bank (the Bank). All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated from the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Business


The Corporation is a bank holding company whose principal activity is the ownership and management of Union Center National Bank (subsidiary). The Bank provides a full range of banking services to individual and corporate customers through fourteen branch locations in Union and Morris Counties, New Jersey. Additionally, the Bank originates residential mortgage loans for others and services such loans for others.loans. The Bank is subject to competition from other financial institutions and the regulations of certain federalFederal and state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities.

Basis of Financial Statement Presentation and Use of Estimates


The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the statement of condition and revenues and expenses for the applicable period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.


In the opinion of Management, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the Corporation'sCorporation’s financial condition and results of operations for the interim periods have been made. Such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. Certain reclassifications have been made for 2004 to conform to the classifications presented in 2005. Results for the period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of results for any other interim period or for the entire fiscal year. Reference is made to the Corporation'sCorporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 for information regarding accounting principles.


Stock BasedStock-Based Compensation

Stock options outstanding were 409,538 and 306,614 at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes options-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions used for grants in 2005 and 2004: dividend rate of 2.73%, expected volatility of 32%42.7% and 35%, risk-free interest rate of 3.90% and 4.08% and expected lives of 6 years. The Corporation granteddid not grant any stock options to purchase 87,594 shares during the third quarter of 2005. During the second quarter of 2005. In addition,2005, options to purchase 56,266 shares of Red Oak Bank common stock were converted into options to purchase 54,514 shares of Center Bancorp common stock pursuant to the acquisition of Red Oak Bank.Bank in May 2005. The options issued in the Red Oak Bank acquisition are fully vested.

On March 31, 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued a proposed Statement, “Share-Based Payment-an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 123 and APB 95,” that addresses the accounting for share-based payment transactions in which an enterprise receives employee services in exchange for (a) equity instruments of the enterprise or (b) liabilities that are based on the fair value of the enterprise’s equity instruments or that may be settled by the issuance of such equity instruments. Under the FASB’s proposal, all forms of share-based payments to employees, including employee stock options, would be treated the same as other forms of compensation by recognizing the related cost in the income statement. The expense of the award would generally be measured at fair value at the grant date. Current accounting guidance requires that the expense relating to so-called fixed plan employee stock options only be disclosed in the footnotes to the financial statements. The proposed Statement would eliminate the ability to account for share-based compensation transactions using APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.”The Corporation has determined that the impact of the initial adoption of SFAS No. 123R would not be material to the consolidated financial statements.

In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 123, (revised 2004), "Share-Based Payment" ("“Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS No. 123 R"R”), which was to be effective for interim periods beginning  after June 15, 2005. On April 14, 2005, the effective date was amended. SFAS No. 123 R will now be effective for annual periods beginning after June 15, 2005. SFAS No. 123 R requires entities to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award (with limited exceptions). The cost is recognized as an expense over the period during which the employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award, which is usually the vesting period. As a result of SFAS No. 123 R, the Company will recognize the grant-date fair value of options as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the applicable vesting period. This accounting treatment differs significantly from the previous accounting for fixed stock options under APB Opinion No. 25, which generally required expense recognition only when the exercise price of the option was less than the market price of the underlying stock n the grant date. As required by SFAS No. 123R,123 R, the Company will estimate the fair value of stock options on each grant date, using an appropriate valuation model such as the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

The new FASB Statement 123R as amended on April 14, 2005, requires companies to recognize in the income statement the grant-date fair value of stock options and other equity-based compensation issued to employees, but expresses no preference for a type of valuation model. The Statement is effective for most public companies' at the beginning of their next fiscal year instead of the next reporting period that begins after June 15, 2005 (the third quarter for the Corporation) or December 15, 2005. For the Corporation, compliance with the new rule will begin with submission of the first quarter 2006 financial statements. The Corporation has determined thatdoes not expect the impact of the



8



initial adoption of SFAS No. 123R would not be123 R to have a material toeffect on the Corporation'scompany’s consolidated financial statements.

8


position or result of operations.

The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if the Corporation had applied the fair value recognition provisions of FASB StatementSFAS No. 123 accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,R to its stock option plans.

 

 

Three Months

 

Nine Months

 

 

 

Ended September 30,

 

Ended September 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

2005

 

2004

 

  

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Net income, as reported

 

$

2,036

     

$

2,017

     

$

5,714

     

$

5,523

 

Add: compensation expense recognized for restricted stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

award, net of related tax effect

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

69

 

 

9

 

Deduct:  Stock-based employee compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

expense determined under fair value based method

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

all awards, net of related tax effects

 

 

25

 

 

27

 

 

312

 

 

73

 

Pro forma net income

 

$

2,011

 

$

1,990

 

$

5,471

 

$

5,459

 

Earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic – as reported

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.21

 

$

0.49

 

$

0.59

 

Basic – pro forma

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.21

 

$

0.47

 

$

0.58

 

Diluted – as reported

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.21

 

$

0.49

 

$

0.58

 

Diluted – pro forma

 

$

0.15

 

$

0.21

 

$

0.47

 

$

0.57

 

  
Three Months
 
Six Months
 
  
Ended June 30,
 
Ended June 30,
 
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Net income, as reported $1,933 $1,782 $3,678 $3,506 
Add: compensation expense recognized for restricted stock             
award, net of related tax effect  0  9  69  9 
Deduct: Total Stock-based employee compensation             
expense determined under fair value based method             
all awards, net of related tax effects  198  24  286  46 
Pro forma net income $1,735 $1,767 $3,461 $3,469 
Earnings per share:             
Basic - as reported $0.18 $0.19 $0.34 $0.37 
Basic - pro forma $0.16 $0.19 $0.32 $0.37 
Diluted - as reported $0.18 $0.19 $0.34 $0.37 
Diluted - pro forma $0.16 $0.19 $0.32 $0.37 

All common stock and per share amounts have been restated to reflect the 5% common stock

dividend declared April 19, 2005, to common stockholders of record May 31, 2005 and
paid on June 15, 2005.

NOTE 2: ACQUSITIONSNote 2—Acquisitions

The Corporation completed the acquisition of Red Oak Bank as of the close of business on May 20, 2005. Red Oak Bank was a State chartered commercial bank and operated one full service branch location in Hanover Township, Morris County, New Jersey. The acquisition presented the Corporation with the strategic opportunity to enhance shareholder value, market share and earnings growth. The opportunities include increasing the Corporation’s loan portfolio, strengthening and expanding the Corporation’s presence in the affluent and desirable business areas of the Morris County marketplace which compliments the Corporation’s existing footprint in that market through additional retail and commercial banking product offerings, increasing deposit share and further building the Corporation’s core deposit funding base, as well as enhancing the Corporation’s opportunities for earning asset generation.

Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, 50% of Red Oak Bank’s common stock was converted into Center Bancorp, Inc. common stock at an exchange rate of .9227 Center shares per each Red Oak Bank share and 50% was converted into $12.06 in cash for each Red Oak Bank share. The aggregate consideration paid in the merger consisted of $13.3 million in cash and 1,015,816 shares of the Corporation’s common stock, based on an exchange rate of $13.07 per share pursuant to the merger agreement. The cash portion of the merger consideration was funded through the sale of securities available for sale and cash from continuing operations. The Corporation additionally converted remaining stock options amounting tocovering 56,266 shares granted of Red Oak Bank common stock outstanding at the time of the merger and were exchanged for options covering 54,514 shares of Center Bancorp, Inc. options.

common stock.

As a result of the Red Oak Bank acquisition, the Corporation acquired assets having a fair value of $115.3$115.4 million, including $89.6 million of net loans, $5.4 million of investment securities and $2.4 million of cash and cash equivalents, and assumed $70.7 million of deposits, $17.1 million of borrowings, and $754,722 of other liabilities.

The acquisition was accounted for as a purchase and the excess cost over the fair value of net assets acquired (“goodwill”) in the transaction was $14.7 million. Under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 142, goodwill is not being amortized in connection with this transaction and the goodwill will not be deductible for income tax purposes. The Corporation also recorded a core deposit intangible of $702,617 in connection with the acquisition, which is being amortized on a 10-year sum of the digits method. The amortization of premiums and discounts resulting from the fair value adjustments of assets and liabilities were not



9



significant for the three and sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005. The results of operations for the first sixnine months of 2005 include Red Oak’s results of operations from May 20, 2005 forward.

9

The following table presents data with respect to the fair values of assets and liabilities acquired in the Red Oak Bank acquisition (in thousands):

 

 

 

At May 20, 2005

 

     

Assets

 

 

 

 

Cash and due from banks                                                                                                                  

 

$

2,433

 

Securities

 

 

5,404

 

Loans, net

 

 

89,626

 

Fixed assets

 

 

476

 

Other assets

 

 

1,918

 

Core deposit intangible

 

 

703

 

Goodwill

 

 

14,691

 

Total assets

 

 

115,251

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

70,674

 

Borrowings

 

 

17,090

 

Other liabilities

 

 

735

 

Total liabilities

 

 

88,500

 

Net assets acquired

 

$

26,751

 

   
At May 20, 2005
 
Assets:    
Cash and due from banks $2,433 
Securities  5,404 
Loans, net  89,626 
Fixed assets  476 
Other assets  1,918 
Core deposit intangible  703 
Goodwill  14,709 
Total assets  115,269 
     
Liabilities:   
Deposits  70,674 
Borrowings  17,090 
Other liabilities  754 
Total liabilities  88,518 
Net assets acquired $26,751 
     

The net deferred tax liability resulting from adjustments of net assets acquired, including the creation of the core deposit intangible amounted to $524,740. Transaction and acquisition costs have been determined in accordance with EITF 95-3. Estimated costs in connection with the acquisition and included as a component of goodwill amounted to $597,085,$578,788, all of which waswere paid as of JuneSeptember 30, 2005.

Note 3—Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) Issue 03-1, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments.” EITF 03-1 provides guidance for determining when an investment is considered impaired, whether impairment is other-than-temporary, and measurement of an impairment loss. An investment is considered impaired if the fair value of the investment is less than its cost. Generally, an impairment is considered other-than-temporary unless: (i) the investor has the ability and intent to hold an investment for a reasonable period of time sufficient for an anticipated recovery of fair value up to (or beyond) the cost of the investment; and (ii) evidence indicating that the cost of the investment is recoverable within a reasonable period of time outweighs evidence to the contrary. If impairment is determined to be other-than-temporary, then an impairment loss should be recognized equal to the difference between the investment’s cost and its fair value. Certain disclosure requirements of EITF 03-1 were adopted in 2003 and the Company began presenting the new disclosure requirements in its consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2003. The recognition and measurement provisions were initially effective for other-than-temporary impairment evaluations in reporting periods beginning after June 15, 2004. However, in September 2004, the effective date of these provisions was delayed until the finalization of a FASB Staff Position (FSP) to provide additional implementation guidance.

In June, the FASB decided not to provide additional guidance on the meaning of other-than-temporary impairment, but directed its staff to issue proposed FSP EITF 03-1-a, “Implementation Guidance for the Application of Paragraph 16 of EITF Issue No. 03-1,” as final. The final FSP will supersede EITF Issue No. 03-1, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments,” and EITF Topic No. D-44, “Recognition of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment upon the Planned Sale of a Security Whose Cost Exceeds Fair Value.” The final FSP (retitled FSP FAS 115-1, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments”) will replace the guidance set forth in paragraphs 10-18 of Issue 03-1 with



10



references to existing other-than-temporary impairment guidance, such as FASB Statement No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities”, SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 59, “Accounting for Noncurrent Marketable Equity Securities”, and APB Opinion No. 18, “The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock.” FASB Staff Position No. FAS 115-1 and FAS 124-1. “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments” (the “FSP”), was issued on November 3, 2005 and addresses the determination of when an investment is considered impaired; whether the impairment is other than temporary; and how to measure an impairment loss. The FSP also addresses accounting considerations subsequent to the recognition of an other-than-temporary impairment on a debt security, and requires certain disclosures about unrealized losses that have not been recognized as other-than-temporary impairments. The FSP replaces the impairment guidance in EITF Issue No. 03-1 with references to existing authoritative literature concerning other-than-temporary determinations (principally Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115 and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin 59). Under the FSP, impairment losses must be recognized in earnings equal to the entire difference between the security’s cost and its fair value at the financial statement date, without considering partial recoveries subsequent to that date. The FSP also requires that an investor recognize an other-than-temporary impairment loss when a decision to sell a security has been made and the investor does not expect the fair value of the security to fully recover prior to the expected time of sale. The FSP is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2005. The Corporation does not expect that the application of the FSP will have a material impact on its financial condition, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.


NOTE 3: RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS


SFAS No 154(R)No. 154

In May 2005 the FASB issued SFASStatement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 154, Accounting“Accounting Changes and Error Corrections-A ReplacementCorrections, a replacement of APB OptionsOpinion No. 20 and FASB Statement No. 3 (“SFAS 154”).3.” SFAS 154 requires retrospective application to prior periods’ financial statements offor changes in accounting principle. Itprinciple, unless it is impracticable to determine either the period specific effects or the cumulative effect of the change. SFAS 154 also requires that the newretrospective application of a change in accounting principle be appliedlimited to the balances of assets and liabilities asdirect effects of the beginningchange. Indirect effects of a change in accounting principle, such as a change in nondiscretionary profit-sharing payments resulting from an accounting change, should be recognized in the period of the earliest period for which retrospective application is practicable andaccounting change. SFAS 154 also requires that a corresponding adjustmentchange in depreciation, amortization, or depletion method for long-lived, non-financial assets be made to the opening balance of retained earningsaccounted for that period rather than being reportedas a change in an income statement. The statement will beaccounting estimate effected by a change in accounting principle. SFAS 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2004.2005. Early adoption is permitted for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after the date this Statement is issued. The CorporationCompany is required to adopt the provisions of SFAS 154, as applicable, beginning in fiscal 2006. The Company does not expect the adoptionimpact of SFAS 154 will be material to have a material effect on the Company’sits consolidated financial position, or results of operations.



operations and cash flows.

NOTE 4 - COMPREHENSIVE INCOMENote 4—Comprehensive Income

Total comprehensive income includes all changes in equity during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. The Bank'sBank’s other comprehensive income is comprised of unrealized holding gains and losses on securities available-for-sale.


10

11




The following table outlines the Corporation’s disclosure of comprehensive income for the three and nine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004.

 

 

Three Months  

 

Nine Months

 

 

 

Ended September 30,

 

Ended September 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

2005

 

2004

 

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Net income

 

$

2,036

 

$

2,017

 

$

5,714

 

$

5,523

 

Other comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional minimum pension liability

  

0

  

14

  

0

  

(14

)

Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of taxes

 

 

(2,507

 

5,413

 

 

(4,101

)

 

(66

)

Less reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, net of taxes

 

 

215

 

 

1

 

 

239

 

 

104

 

Other total comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

(2,292

 

5,428

 

 

(3,862

)

 

(76

)

Total comprehensive income (loss)

 

$

(256

$

7,445

 

$

1,852

 

$

5,447

 

Note 5—Earnings per Share Reconcilement

  
Three Months  
 
Six Months
 
  
Ended June 30,
 
Ended June 30,
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Net Income $1,933 $1,782 $3,678 $3,506 
Other Comprehensive income
             
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of taxes  
1,434
  
(8,214
)
 
(1,594
)
 
(5,607
)
Less reclassification adjustment for gains             
included in net income, net of taxes  16  186  24  103 
Other total comprehensive income (loss)  1,450  (8,028) (1,570) (5,504)
Total comprehensive income (loss) $3,383 $(6,246)$2,108 $(1,998)
NOTE 5 - EARNINGS PER SHARE RECONCILEMENT

Basic Earnings per Share (EPS) is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS includes any additional common shares as if all potentially dilutive common shares were issued (e.g., stock options). The Corporation'sCorporation’s weighted average common shares outstanding for diluted EPS include the effect of stock options outstanding using the Treasury Stock Method, which are not included in the calculation of basic EPS. The Corporation’s only outstanding “common share equivalents” are options to purchase its common stock.

All weighted average, actual shares and per share information has been adjusted retroactively for the effects of stock dividends. The following schedule shows the computation of the Corporation’s earnings per share for the periods presented:

 

 

Three Months

 

Nine Months

 

 

 

Ended September 30,

 

Ended September 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

2005

 

2004

 

  

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

Net income

 

$

2,036

     

$

2,017

     

$

5,714

     

$

5,523

 

Average number of common shares outstanding

 

 

13,427

 

 

9,486

 

 

11,607

 

 

9,435

 

Effect of dilutive options

 

 

45

 

 

44

 

 

45

 

 

62

 

Effect of restricted stock awards

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

1

 

Average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per common share

 

 

13,472

 

 

9,530

 

 

11,652

 

 

9,498

 

Net income per share

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

$

.15

 

$

.21

 

$

0.49

 

$

0.59

 

Diluted

 

$

.15

 

$

.21

 

$

0.49

 

$

0.58

 

Note 6—Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost

 

 

Pension
Benefits

 

Other
Postretirement
Benefits

 

  

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Three Months Ended September 30,

 
 

 

2005

 

2004

 

2005

 

2004

 

 

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Service cost

 

$

187

 

$

165

 

$

12

 

$

11

 

Interest cost

 

 

131

 

 

124

 

 

18

 

 

16

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

 

(133

 

(111

 

0

  

 

0

 

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

1

 

 

1

 

 

3

 

 

3

 

Amortization of the net loss

 

 

6

 

 

11

 

 

13

 

 

10

 

Net periodic benefit cost

 

$

192

 

$

190

 

$

46

 

$

40

 

  
Three Months
 
Six Months
 
  
Ended June 30,
 
Ended June 30,
 
(In Thousands, except per share amounts)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Net income $1,933 $1,782 $3,678 $3,506 
Average number of common shares outstanding  10,963  9,423  10,697  9,410 
Effect of dilutive options  43  59  86  69 
Effect of restricted stock awards  0  1  0  2 
Average number of common shares outstanding used to             
calculate diluted earnings per common share  11,006  9,483  10,783  9,481 
Net income per share             
Basic $.18 $.19 $0.34 $0.37 
Diluted $.18 $.19 $0.34 $0.37 
NOTE 6 - COMPONENTS OF NET PERIODIC BENEFIT COST
    
  
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
    
  
Pension Benefits
 
Other Postretirement Benefits
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
Service cost $187 $165 $12 $11 
Interest cost  131  124  18  16 
Expected return on plan assets  (133) (111) 0  0 
Amortization of prior service cost  1  1  3  3 
Amortization of the net loss  6  11  13  10 
Net periodic benefit cost $192 $190 $46 $40 
           
11

Contributions





 

 

Pension
Benefits

 

Other
Postretirement
Benefits

 

  

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 
 

 

2005

 

2004

 

2005

 

2004

 

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Service cost

 

$

561

 

$

496

 

$

36

 

$

32

 

Interest cost

 

 

394

 

 

371

 

 

55

 

 

50

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

 

(400

 

(332

 

0

  

 

0

 

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

3

 

 

3

 

 

8

 

 

8

 

Amortization of the net loss

 

 

17

 

 

33

 

 

40

 

 

29

 

Net periodic benefit cost

 

$

575

 

$

571

 

$

139

 

$

119

 

Contributions

The Corporation previously disclosed in its financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2004, that it expected to contribute $700,000 to its pension plans in 2005. As of JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation has contributed $350,000$525,000 to its pension plans. The Corporation presently does not anticipate increasing its total contributions for the year to fund its pension plan obligations in 2005.


NOTE 7 - VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIESNote 7—Variable Interest Entities


During 2001 and 2003, the Corporation issued $10.3 million and $5.2 million, respectively, of subordinated debentures and formed statutory business trusts, which exist for the exclusive purpose of (i) issuing trust securities representing undivided beneficial interests in the assets of the trusts; (ii) investing the gross proceeds of the trust securities in junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures (subordinated debentures) of the Corporation; and (iii) engaging in only those activities necessary or incidental thereto. These subordinated debentures and the related income effects are not eliminated in the consolidated financial statements as the statutory business trusts are not consolidated in accordance with FASB interpretation No.46 "ConsolidationNo. 46 “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities." Distributions on the subordinated debentures owned by the subsidiary trusts below have been classified as interest expense in the Consolidated Statement of Income.


The characteristics of the business trusts and capital securities have not changed with the deconsolidation of the trusts. The capital securities provide an attractive source of funds since they constitute Tier 1 capital for regulatory purposes, but have the same tax advantages as debt for federal income tax purposes. During the first quarter of 2005, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System adopted a final rule that allows bank holding companies to continue to include trust preferred securities in their Tier 1 capital for regulatory capital purposes but with stricter quantitative limits that take effect after a five-year transition period ending March 31, 2009. Management believes that the new rule will not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial condition.


As of JuneSeptember 30, 2005, assuming the Corporation was not allowed to include the $15.5 million in subordinated debentures inas Tier 1 capital, the Corporation had aCorporation’s Tier 1 capital ratio of 12.39% and a total risk based capital ratio of 13.11%.


would have been 12.41% and 13.13%, respectively.

To the extent that the statutory business trusts have funds available to make payments, the Corporation (as guarantor) continues to unconditionally guarantee payment of required distributions on the capital securities, the redemption price when a capital security is redeemed and the amounts due if a trust is liquidated or terminated.


During the first sixnine months of 2005, the statutory business trusts did not repurchase any capital securities or related debentures.

12


ITEM 2-Management'sItem 2. Management’s Discussion & Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations


Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements


This report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Sections 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of Center Bancorp, including



13



statements preceded by, followed by or that include words or phrases such as “believes,”“expects, “expects,“anticipates, “anticipates,“plans, “plans,“trend, “trend,“objective, “objective,“continue, “continue,“remain, “remain,“pattern” “pattern” or similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,”“would, “would,“should, “should,“could, “could,“might, “might,“can, “can,“may” “may” or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical performance and from these forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: (1) competitive pressures among depository institutions may increase significantly; (2) the interest rate environment may change; (3) prepayment speeds, loan origination and sale volumes, charge-offs and loan loss provisions may reduce interest margins; (4) general economic conditions may be less favorable than expected; (5) political developments, wars, terrorism or other hostilities may disrupt or increase volatility in securities markets or other economic conditions; (6) legislative or regulatory changes or actions may adversely affect the businesses in which Center Bancorp is engaged; (7) changes and trends in the securities markets may affect the Corporation’s common stock; (8) a delayed or incomplete resolution of regulatory issues may negatively impact the services provided by the Bank;Union Center Nation Bank, the banking subsidiary of Center Bancorp (the “Bank”); (9) the developments discussed above may have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s business generation and retention, funding and liquidity; and (10) the outcome of regulatory and legal investigations and proceedings cannot always be predicted accurately. Further information on other factors that could affect the financial results of Center Bancorp are included in Center Bancorp’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These documents are available free of charge at the Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov and/or from Center Bancorp. Bancorp. The Corporation assumes no obligation for updating any such forward-looking statement at any time.


Critical Accounting Policies


The accounting and reporting policies followed by Center Bancorp, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Corporation”) conform, in all material respects, to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management has made estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the dates of the consolidated statements of condition and results of operations for the periods indicated. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.


The Corporation’s accounting policies are fundamental to understanding Management’s Discussion and Analysis of financial condition and results of operations. The most significant accounting policies followed by the Corporation are presented in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the Corporation’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The Corporation has identified its policies on the allowance for loan losses and income tax liabilities to be critical because management has to make subjective and/or complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain and could be most subject to revision as new information becomes available.


The allowance for loan losses represents management’s estimate of probable credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio. Determining the amount of the allowance for loan losses is considered a critical accounting estimate because it requires significant judgment and the use of estimates related to the amount and timing of expected future cash flows on impaired loans, estimated losses on pools of homogeneous loans based on historical loss experience, and consideration of current economic trends and conditions, all of which may be susceptible to significant change. The loan portfolio also represents the second largest asset type on the Consolidated Statements of Condition. Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the Corporation’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K and page 20 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q under “Allowance for Loan Losses and Related Provisions”, describes the methodology used to determine the allowance for loan losses and discusses the factors driving changes in the amount of the allowance for loan losses.


The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in an entity’s financial statements or tax returns. Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements or tax returns. Fluctuations in the actual outcome of these future tax consequences could impact the Corporation’s consolidated financial condition or results of operations. Notes 1 and 10 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the Corporation’s 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K include additional discussion on the accounting for income taxes.

13



14



Earnings Analysis


Net income for the three-monthsthree months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 amounted to $1,933,000$2,036,000 compared to $1,782,000$2,017,000 earned for the comparable three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. On a fully diluted per share basis, earnings decreased to $.18$.15 per share as compared with $.19$.21 per share for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. All common stock per share amounts have been restated to reflect all previously declared and paid common stock splits and common stock dividends. The annualized return on average assets remained stable at .77 percent compared with .77 percent for the comparable three-month period in 2004. The annualized return on average stockholders' equity was 10.45 percent for the three-month period ended June 30, 2005 as compared to 13.25 percent for the three-months ended June 30, 2004. Earnings performance for the second quarter of 2005 primarily reflects a higher level of net interest income with no provision for loan losses, and reduction of the effective tax rate offset in part by increased non-interest expense. The decline in the Corporation’s earnings per share resulted from more shares being outstanding due to the acquisition of Red Oak Bank and issuance of common shares in private placements on September 29, 2004 and on June 30, 2005.


All common stock per share amounts have been restated to reflect all previously declared and paid common stock splits and common stock dividends. The annualized return on average assets decreased 16 basis points to .70 percent compared with .86 percent for the comparable three month period in 2004. The annualized return on average stockholders’ equity was 8.08 percent for the three-month period ended September 30, 2005 as compared to 14.88 percent for the three months ended September 30, 2004. Earnings performance for the third quarter of 2005 primarily reflects a higher level of net interest income and non-interest income with no provision for loan losses, offset in part by increased non-interest expense.

Net income for the six-monthsnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 amounted to $3,678,000$5,714,000 compared to $3,506,000$5,523,000 earned for the comparable six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. On a fully diluted per share basis, earnings decreased to $.34$.49 per share as compared with $.37$.58 per share for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The annualized return on average assets decreased to .70 percent compared with .76 percent for the comparable six-month period in 2004. The annualized return on average stockholders' equity was 10.31 percent for the six-month period ended June 30, 2005 as compared to 12.84 percent for the six months ended June 30, 2004. Earnings performance for the first six months of 2005 primarily reflects a higher level of net interest income, with no provision for loan losses, and reduction in the effective tax rate, offset in part by increased non-interest expense. The decline in the Corporation’s earnings per share resulted from more shares being outstanding due to the acquisition of Red Oak Bank and issuance of common shares in private placements on September 29, 2004 and on June 30, 2005.


The annualized return on average assets decreased to .70 percent compared with .80 percent for the comparable nine-month period in 2004. The annualized return on average stockholders’ equity was 9.37 percent for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2005 as compared to 13.52 percent for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. Earnings performance for the first nine months of 2005 primarily reflects a higher level of net interest income and non-interest income, with no provision for loan losses, and a reduction in the effective tax rate, offset in part by increased non-interest expense.

Net Interest Income/Margin


Net interest income is the difference between the interest earned on the portfolio of earning-assets (principally loans and investments) and the interest paid for deposits and short-term borrowings, which support these assets. Net interest income is presented below first on a fully tax-equivalent basis by adjusting tax-exempt income (primarily interest earned on various obligations of state and political subdivisions) by the amount of income tax which would have been paid had the assets been invested in taxable issues and then in accordance with the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements.


The net interest income data presented in this financial review differ from the Corporation’s net interest income components of the consolidated financial statements presented elsewhere in this report. Financial institutions typically analyze earnings performance on a tax-equivalent basis, as a result of certain disclosure obligations, which require the presentation of tax-equivalent data and in order to assist financial statement readers in comparing data from period to period.




 

 

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended
September  30,

 

Net Interest Income  

 

2005
Amount

 

2004
Amount

 

Percent
Change

 

2005
Amount

 

2004
Amount

 

Percent
Change

 

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Interest income:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments

 

$

7,185

 

$

5,893

 

 

21.92

 

$

20,707

 

$

17,221

 

 

20.24

 

Loans, including fees

 

 

7,044

 

 

4,705

 

 

49.69

 

 

18,005

 

 

13,571

 

 

32.67

 

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreement to resell

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

0.00

 

 

29

 

 

0

 

 

100.00

 

Total interest income

 

 

14,228

 

 

10,598

 

 

34.25

 

 

38,740

 

 

30,792

 

 

25.82

 

Interest expense:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of $100,000 or more

 

 

820

 

 

345

 

 

137.68

 

 

2,806

 

 

538

 

 

421.56

 

Deposits

 

 

2,105

 

 

1,490

 

 

41.28

 

 

5,561

 

 

4,692

 

 

18.52

 

Borrowings

 

 

3,494

 

 

1,696

 

 

106.01

 

 

8,081

 

 

4,721

 

 

71.17

 

Total interest expense

 

 

6,419

 

 

3,531

 

 

81.79

 

 

16,448

 

 

9,951

 

 

65.29

 

Net interest income on a fully
tax-equivalent basis

 

 

7,810

 

 

7,067

 

 

10.51

 

 

22,293

 

 

20,841

 

 

6.97

 

Tax-equivalent adjustment

   

 

(655

)   

 

(477

)   

 

37.32

   

 

(1,874

)   

 

(1,369

)   

 

36.89

 

Net interest income*

 

$

7,155

 

$

6,590

 

 

8.57

 

$

20,419

 

$

19,472

 

 

4.86

 

Net Interest Income   
Three Months Ended June 30, 
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
  
2005
 
2004
 
Percent
 
2005
 
2004
 
Percent
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Change
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Change
 
Interest Income:
             
Investments $7,015 $5,683  23.44 $13,522 $11,339  19.25 
Loans, including fees  5,928  4,490  32.03  10,961  8,865  23.64 
Federal funds sold and securities purchased
under agreement to resell
  
17
  
0
  
100.00
  
29
  
0
  
100.00
 
Total interest income  12,960  10,173  27.40  24,512  20,204  21.32 
Interest expense:
                   
Certificates of $100,000 or more  987  92  972.83  1,986  193  929.02 
Deposits  1,896  1,561  21.46  3,456  3,202  7.93 
Borrowings  2,605  1,580  64.87  4,587  3,025  51.64 
Total interest expense  5,488  3,233  69.75  10,029  6,420  56.21 
Net interest income on a fully tax-equivalent basis  7,472  6,940  7.67  14,483  13,784  5.07 
Tax-equivalent adjustment  (623) (441) 41.27  (1,219) (902) 35.14 
Net interest income * $6,849 $6,499  5.39 $13,264 $12,882  2.97 

——————

*

Before the provision for loan losses

NOTE:

The tax-equivalent adjustment was computed based on an assumed statutory Federal income tax rate of 34 percent. Adjustments were made for interest earned on securities of state and political subdivisions.


and other tax advantaged securities.

Net interest income on a fully tax-equivalent basis increased $532,000$743,000 or 7.6710.5 percent to $7.5$7.8 million for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, from $6.9$7.1 million for the comparable period in 2004. For the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the net interest margin decreased 3034 basis points to 2.932.89 percent from 3.23 percent due primarily to higher rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. For the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, an increase in the average yield on interest-earning assets of 3641 basis points was offset by an increase in the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities of 7591 basis points, which reduced the Corporation’s net interest spread by 3950 basis points.


14

Net interest income on a fully tax-equivalent basis increased $699,000$1,452,000 or 5.076.97 percent to $14.5$22.3 million for the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, from $13.8$20.8 million for the comparable period in 2004. For the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the net interest margin decreased 2629 basis points to 2.952.93 percent from 3.213.22 percent due primarily to higher rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. For the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, an increase in the average yield on interest-earning assets of 2833 basis points was offset by an increase in the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities of 6374 basis points, which reduced the Corporation’s net interest spread by 3541 basis points.

For the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, interest income on a tax-equivalent basis increased by $2.8$3.6 million or 27.4034.26 percent over the comparable three-month period in 2004. This increase reflects an increase in average earning assets and rates. The increase in earning assets for the three months ended September 30, 2005 included $35.6$93.1 million in average earning assetsearning-assets acquired in the purchase of Red Oak Bank. The Corporation'sCorporation’s loan portfolio increased on average $74.0$127.5 million to $435.5$498.1 million from $361.5$370.6 million in the same quarter of 2004, primarily driven by growth in commercial and home equity loans and commercial and residential mortgages. The loan portfolio represented approximately 42.746.0 percent of the Corporation'sCorporation’s interest-earning assets (on average) during the secondthird quarter of 2005 and 42.042.4 percent in the same quarter in 2004. Average investment volume increased during the period by $82.1$81.0 million compared to 2004. The growth in earning assets was funded primarily through increased levels of savings deposits and borrowings, and the addition of Red Oak Bank.


Bank and proceeds from the private placement completed on June 30, 2005.

For the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, interest income on a tax-equivalent basis increased by $4.3$7.9 million or 21.3225.82 percent over the comparable six-monthnine-month period in 2004. This increase primarily reflects an increase in the level and mix of average earning assets. The increase in earning assets for the nine months ended



16



September 30, 2005, included $21.9$46.1 million in average earning assets acquired in the purchase of Red Oak Bank. The Corporation'sCorporation’s loan portfolio increased on average $53.6$78.6 million to $408.3$438.6 million from $354.7$360.0 million in the same period in 2004, primarily driven by growth in commercial loans, home equity loans, and commercial and residential mortgages. The loan portfolio represented approximately 41.643.2 percent of the Corporation'sCorporation’s interest earning assets (on average) during the first sixnine months of 2005 and 41.341.7 percent in the same period in 2004. Average investment volume increased during the period by $68.4$72.6 million compared to 2004. The growth in earning-assetsearning assets was funded primarily through cash flow from the Corporation’s investment portfolio, and the addition of Red Oak Bank.

Bank and proceeds from the private placements completed on June 30, 2005 and on September 29, 2004.

The factors underlying the year to year and quarter-to-quarter changes in net interest income are reflected in the tables appearing on pages 16, 17, 18, and 18,19, each of which has been presented on a tax-equivalent basis (assuming a 34 percent statatory federal income tax rates)rate). The tables on pages 1718 and 1819 (Average Statements of Condition Sheet with Interest and Average Rates) shows the Corporation’s consolidated average balance of assets, liabilities, and stockholders’ equity, the amount of income produced from interest-earning assets and the amount of expense resulting from interest-bearing liabilities and the interest income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets, for the three and sixnine month periods ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004. The table presented on page 1617 (Analysis of Variance in Net Interest Income Due to Volume and Rates) quantifies the impact on net interest income resulting from changes in average balances and average rates over the periods presented; any change in interest income or expense attributable to both changes in volume and changes in rate has been allocated in proportion to the relationship of the absolute dollar amount of change in each category.

The Federal Reserve Open Market Committee increased interest rates nineeight times in the past year, for a total 225of 200 basis points from a 45-year low of 1.00 percent in June 2003. During the secondthird quarter of 2005, the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee increased rates 50 basis points. The yield on interest-earning assets, during the secondthird quarter, grew to 5.095.26 percent from 4.734.85 percent in 2004 (a change of 3641 basis points); this change was offset by higher rates paid for interest-bearing liabilities coupled with a change in the mix of interest-bearing liabilities. The total cost of interest-bearing liabilities increased to 2.512.80 percent, a change of 7591 basis points, for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 from 1.761.89 percent for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. For the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation’s net interest spread on a tax-equivalent basis decreased to 2.582.46 percent from 2.972.96 percent for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The Corporation’s variable rate trust preferred borrowings were adversely impacted by the increase in interest rates for the three-monthsthree months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005. Without the impact of the trust-preferred debt, the cost of funds would have been 2.44%

2.72% compared to 1.83% for the comparable period of the prior year.

For the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation’s yield on interest-earning assets increased to 4.995.08 percent from 4.714.75 percent in the comparable period in 2004 (a change(an increase of 2833 basis points). This change was partially offset by a change in the mix of interest-bearing liabilities, principally a larger average component of short term borrowings included in the funding mix. The total cost of interest-bearing liabilities increased to 2.392.54 percent, a changerise of 6374 basis points, for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 from 1.761.80 percent for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The Corporation’s variable rate trust preferred borrowings were adversely impacted by the increase in rates for the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005. Without theThe impact of the trust preferred debt, without the cost of funds would have been 2.33%.2.47% compared to 1.74% for the prior year comparable period. The increase in the total cost of interest bearing liabilities was also impacted by an increase in rates paid on certain Timetime, savings and money market interest-bearing liabilities.


15

17




The following table, “Analysis of Variance in Net Interest Income due to Volume and Rates”, analyzes net interest income by segregating the volume and rate components of various interest-earning assets and liabilities and the changes in the rates earned and paid by the Corporation.

Analysis of Variance in Net Interest Income Due to Volume and Rates

 

 

Three Months Ended
September 30, 2005/2004
Increase (Decrease) Due to Change in:

 

Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2005/2004
Increase (Decrease) Due to Change in:

 

 

 

Average
Volume

 

Average
Rate

 

Net
Change

 

Average
Volume

 

Average
Rate

 

Net
Change

 

  

(tax-equivalent basis, dollars in thousands)

 
              

Interest-earning assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taxable

   

$

252

 

$

335

 

$

587

 

$

485

 

$

1,075

 

$

1,560

 

Non-taxable

 

 

815

 

 

(110

)   

 

705

   

 

2,329

 

 

(403

)   

 

1,926

 

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreement to resell

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

29

 

 

0

 

 

29

 

Loans, net of unearned discounts

 

 

1,758

 

 

581

 

 

2,339

 

 

3,149

 

 

1,285

 

 

4,434

 

Total interest-earning assets

 

 

2,826

 

 

805

 

 

3,631

 

 

5,992

 

 

1,957

 

 

7,949

 

Interest-bearing liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money market deposits

 

 

30

 

 

313

 

 

343

 

 

(3

)   

 

780

 

 

777

 

Savings deposits

 

 

(50

)   

 

137

 

 

87

 

 

(217

)

 

377

 

 

160

 

Time deposits

 

 

85

 

 

299

 

 

384

 

 

1,275

 

 

407

 

 

1,682

 

Other interest-bearing deposits

 

 

127

 

 

149

 

 

276

 

 

248

 

 

270

 

 

518

 

Short-term borrowings

 

 

831

 

 

866

 

 

1,697

 

 

958

 

 

2,181

 

 

3,139

 

Trust preferred

 

 

0

 

 

101

 

 

101

 

 

0

 

 

221

 

 

221

 

Total interest-bearing liabilities

 

 

1,023

 

 

1,865

 

 

2,888

 

 

2,261

 

 

4,236

 

 

6,497

 

Change in net interest income

 

$

1,803

 

$

(1,060

)

$

743

 

$

3,733

 

$

(2,281

)

$

1,452

 


ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE IN NET INTEREST INCOME DUE TO VOLUME AND RATES
  
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
  
2005/2004 Increase (Decrease)
 
2005/2004 Increase (Decrease)
 
(Tax Equivalent Basis)   
Due to Change In:
 
Due to Change In:
 
 
 (Dollars In Thousands)
 
Average
Volume
 
Average
Rate
 
Net
Change
 
Average
Volume
 
Average
Rate
 
Net
Change
 
Interest-earning assets:             
Investment securities:             
Taxable $309 $348 $657 $355 $645 $1,000 
Non-Taxable  750  (75) 675  1,383  (200) 1,183 
Federal funds sold and securities                   
purchased under agreement to resell  17  0  17  29  0  29 
Loans, net of unearned discounts  979  459  1,438  1,407  689  2,096 
Total interest-earning assets  2,055  732  2,787  3,174  1,134  4,308 
Interest-bearing liabilities:                   
Money market deposits  (10) 301  291  7  428  435 
Savings deposits  (10) 81  71  (56) 128  72 
Time deposits  589  106  695  1,178  120  1,298 
Other interest-bearing deposits  59  114  173  22  220  242 
Short-term borrowings  182  771  953  209  1,233  1,442 
Trust preferred  0  72  72  0  120  120 
Total interest-bearing liabilities  810  1,445  2,255  1,360  2,249  3,609 
Change in net interest income $1,245 ($713)$532 $1,814 (1,115)$699 

16

18



The following table, “Average Balance Sheet with Interest and Average Rates”, presents for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004 the Corporation’s average assets, liabilities and stockholders’ equity. The Corporation’s net interest income, net interest spreads and net interest income as a percentage of interest-earning assets are also reflected.

Average Statements of Condition with Interest and Average Rates

 

 

Nine Month Period Ended September 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

 

 

Average
Balance

 

Interest
Income/
Expense

 

Average
Yield/
Rate

 

Average
Balance

 

Interest
Income/
Expense

 

Average
Yield/
Rate

 

  

(tax-equivalent basis, dollars in thousands)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest-earning assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment securities(1):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taxable

 

$

426,337

   

$

14,754

   

 

4.61

%  

$

411,559

   

$

13,194

   

 

4.27

%

Non-taxable

 

 

149,829

 

 

5,953

 

 

5.30

%

 

91,973

 

 

4,027

 

 

5.84

%

Loans, net of unearned income(2)

   

 

438,571

 

 

18,005

 

 

5.47

%

 

360,002

 

 

13,571

 

 

5.03

%

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreement to resell

 

 

1,459

 

 

29

 

 

2.65

%

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

0.00

%

Total interest-earning assets

 

 

1,016,196

 

 

38,741

 

 

5.08

%

 

863,534

 

 

30,792

 

 

4.75

%

Non-interest-earning assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and due from banks

 

 

19,442

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,477

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bank owned life insurance

 

 

18,106

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16,562

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other assets

 

 

38,281

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

27,785

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allowance for possible loan losses

 

 

(4,389

)   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

(3,310

)   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total non-interest-earning assets

 

 

71,440

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

60,514

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total assets

 

$

1,087,636

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

924,048

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest-bearing liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money market deposits

 

$

96,739

 

 

1,505

 

 

2.07

%

$

97,195

 

 

728

 

 

1.00

%

Savings deposits

 

 

115,201

 

 

1,187

 

 

1.37

%

 

141,663

 

 

1,027

 

 

0.97

%

Time deposits

 

 

227,364

 

 

4,839

 

 

2.84

%

 

165,898

 

 

3,157

 

 

2.54

%

Other interest-bearing deposits

 

 

117,799

 

 

836

 

 

0.95

%

 

73,856

 

 

318

 

 

0.57

%

Short-term borrowings & FHLB Advances

 

 

291,966

 

 

7,325

 

 

3.35

%

 

243,122

 

 

4,186

 

 

2.30

%

Subordinated debentures

 

 

15,465

 

 

756

 

 

6.54

%

 

15,465

 

 

535

 

 

4.61

%

Total interest-bearing liabilities

 

 

864,534

 

 

16,448

 

 

2.54

%

 

737,199

 

 

9,951

 

 

1.80

%

Non-interest-bearing liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Demand deposits

 

 

133,565

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

126,056

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other non-interest-bearing deposits

 

 

3,021

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

906

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other liabilities

 

 

5,260

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,407

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total non-interest-bearing liabilities

 

 

141,846

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

132,369

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity

 

 

81,256

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

54,480

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

1,087,636

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

924,048

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)

 

 

 

 

$

22,293

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

20,841

 

 

 

 

Net interest spread

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.54

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.95

%

Net interest income as percent of earning-assets (net interest margin)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.93

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.22

%

Tax-equivalent adjustment(3)

 

 

 

 

 

(1,874

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,369

)

 

 

 

Net interest income

 

 

 

 

$

20,419

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

19,472

 

 

 

 


AVERAGE STATEMENTS OF CONDITION WITH INTEREST AND AVERAGE RATES
  
Six Month Period Ended June 30,
 
    
2005
     
2004
   
    
Interest
 
Average
   
Interest
 
Average
 
(tax-equivalent basis,
 
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
 
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
 
dollars in thousands)
 
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
 
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
 
Assets
             
Interest-earning assets:             
Investment securities: (1)             
Taxable $425,932 $9,676  4.54%$409,582 $8,676  4.24%
Non-taxable  145,900  3,846  5.27% 93,883  2,663  5.67%
Loans, net of unearned income (2)  408,292  10,961  5.37% 354,665  8,865  5.00%
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under
agreement to resell
  
2,201
  
29
  
2.64
%
 
0
  
0
  
0.00
%
Total interest-earning assets  982,325  24,512  4.99% 858,130  20,204  4.71%
Non-interest-earning assets                   
Cash and due from banks  19,840        19,841       
BOLI  18,013        16,062       
Other assets  33,541        27,380       
Allowance for possible loan losses  (4,082)       (3,205)      
Total non-interest-earning assets  67,312        60,078       
Total assets $1,049,637       $918,208       
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
                   
Interest-bearing liabilities:                   
Money market deposits $87,849  932  2.12%$86,634  497  1.15%
Savings deposits  113,732  765  1.35% 123,220  693  1.12%
Time deposits  240,274  3,311  2.76% 154,383  2,013  2.61%
Other interest - bearing deposits  120,873  434  0.72% 109,365  192  0.35%
Short-term Borrowings & FHLB Advances  260,048  4,125  3.17% 242,323  2,683  2.21%
Subordinated Debentures  
  15,465  462  5.97% 15,465  342  4.42%
Total interest-bearing liabilities  838,241  10,029  2.39% 731,390  6,420  1.76%
Non-interest-bearing liabilities:                   
Demand deposits  132,781        125,327       
Other non-interest-bearing deposits  2,224        1,220       
Other liabilities  5,042        5,655       
Total non-interest-bearing liabilities  140,047        132,202       
Stockholders' equity  71,349        54,616       
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $1,049,637       $918,208       
Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)    $14,483       $13,784    
Net Interest Spread        2.60%       2.95%
Net interest income as percent                   
of earning-assets (net interest margin)        2.95%       3.21%
Tax-equivalent adjustment (3)     (1,219)       (902)   
Net interest income    $13,264       $12,882    
                    

——————

(1)

Average balances for available-for-sale securities are based on amortized cost

cost.

(2)

Average balances for loans include loans on non-accrual status

status.

(3)

The tax-equivalent adjustment was computed based on a statutory Federal income tax rate of 34 percent

17
percent.



19




The following table, “Average Balance Sheet with Interest and Average Rates”, presents for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004 the Corporation’s average assets, liabilities and stockholders’ equity. The Corporation’s net interest income, net interest spreads and net interest income as a percentage of interest-earning assets are also reflected.

Average Statements of Condition with Interest and Average Rates

 

 

Three Month Period Ended September 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

 

 

Average Balance

 

Interest
Income/
Expense

 

Average Yield/
Rate

 

Average Balance

 

Interest
Income/
Expense

 

Average Yield/
Rate

 

  

(tax-equivalent basis, dollars in thousands)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest-earning assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment securities(1):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taxable

   

$

431,669

  

$

5,078

  

 

4.71

%  

 

409,360

 

$

4,491

  

 

4.39

%

Non-taxable

 

 

153,023

 

 

2,108

 

 

5.51

%

 

94,303

 

 

1,402

 

 

5.95

%

Loans, net of unearned income(2)

 

 

498,142

 

 

7,043

 

 

5.66

%

 

370,562

 

 

4,705

 

 

5.08

%

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreement to resell

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

0.00

%

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

0.00

%

Total interest-earning assets

 

 

1,082,834

 

 

14,229

 

 

5.26

%

 

874,225

 

 

10,598

 

 

4.85

%

Non-interest-earning assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Cash and due from banks

 

 

18,657

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18,759

 

 

 

 

  

 

BOLI

 

 

18,291

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

17,551

 

 

 

 

  

 

Other assets

 

 

47,606

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

28,584

 

 

 

 

  

 

Allowance for possible loan losses

 

 

(4,992

)  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3,519

)  

 

 

 

  

 

Total non-interest-earning assets

 

 

79,562

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

61,375

 

 

 

 

  

 

Total assets

 

$

1,162,396

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

935,600

 

 

 

 

  

 

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Interest-bearing liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Money market deposits

 

$

99,319

 

 

573

 

 

2.31

%

$

88,863

 

 

230

 

 

1.04

%

Savings deposits

 

 

118,745

 

 

422

 

 

1.42

%

 

137,358

 

 

335

 

 

0.98

%

Time deposits

 

 

201,964

 

 

1,528

 

 

3.03

%

 

188,675

 

 

1,144

 

 

2.43

%

Other interest-bearing deposits

 

 

126,663

 

 

402

 

 

1.27

%

 

73,508

 

 

126

 

 

0.69

%

Short-term borrowings & FHLB Advances

 

 

354,763

 

 

3,200

 

 

3.61

%

 

244,704

 

 

1,503

 

 

2.46

%

Subordinated debentures

 

 

15,465

 

 

294

 

 

7.54

%

 

15,465

 

 

193

 

 

4.95

%

Total interest-bearing liabilities

 

 

916,919

 

 

6,419

 

 

2.80

%

 

748,573

 

 

3,531

 

 

1.89

%

Non-interest-bearing liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Demand deposits

 

 

135,111

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

127,616

 

 

 

 

  

 

Other non-interest-bearing deposits

 

 

3,934

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

285

 

 

 

 

  

 

Other liabilities

 

 

5,683

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,915

 

 

 

 

  

 

Total non-interest-bearing liabilities

 

 

144,728

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

132,816

 

 

 

 

  

 

Stockholders’ equity

 

 

100,749

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

54,211

 

 

 

 

  

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

1,162,396

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

935,600

 

 

 

 

  

 

Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)

 

 

 

 

$

7,810

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

7,067

 

  

 

Net Interest spread

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.46

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.96

%

Net interest income as percent of earning-assets (net interest margin)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.89

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.23

%

Tax-equivalent adjustment(3)

 

 

 

 

 

(655

)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(477

)

  

 

Net interest income

 

 

 

 

$

7,155

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

6,590

 

  

 


AVERAGE STATEMENTS OF CONDITION WITH INTEREST AND AVERAGE RATES
      
    
Three Month Period Ended June 30,
 
    
2005
     
2004
   
    
Interest
 
Average
   
Interest
 
Average
 
(tax-equivalent basis,
 
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
 
Average
 
Income/
 
Yield/
 
dollars in thousands)
 
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
 
Balance
 
Expense
 
Rate
 
Assets
             
Interest-earning assets:             
Investment securities: (1)             
Taxable $437,799 $5,041  4.61%$409,893 $4,384  4.28%
Non-taxable  143,506  1,974  5.50% 89,277  1,299  5.82%
Loans, net of unearned income (2)  435,539  5,928  5.44% 361,523  4,490  4.97%
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under
agreement to resell
  
2,397
  
17
  
2.84
%
 
0
  
0
  
0.00
%
Total interest-earning assets  1,019,241  12,960  5.09% 860,693  10,173  4.73%
Non-interest-earning assets                   
Cash and due from banks  20,478        18,743       
BOLI  18,103        16,062       
Other assets  38,143        30,027       
Allowance for possible loan losses  (4,343)       (3,315)      
Total non-interest-earning assets  72,381        61,517       
Total assets $1,091,622       $922,210       
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
                   
Interest-bearing liabilities:                   
Money market deposits $91,206  526  2.31%$95,255  235  0.99%
Savings deposits  137,004  410  1.20% 141,138  339  0.96%
Time deposits  253,311  1,672  2.84% 151,299  977  2.58%
Other interest - bearing deposits  109,153  275  1.01% 75,424  102  0.54%
Short-term Borrowings & FHLB Advances  286,144  2,364  3.30% 255,941  1,411  2.21%
Subordinated Debentures  
  15,465  241  6.23% 15,465  169  4.37%
Total interest-bearing liabilities  874,283  5,488  2.51% 734,522  3,233  1.76%
Non-interest-bearing liabilities:                   
Demand deposits  135,433        127,222       
Other non-interest-bearing deposits  2,785        631       
Other liabilities  5,150        6,047       
Total non-interest-bearing liabilities  143,368        133,900       
Stockholders' equity  73,971        53,788       
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $1,091,622       $922,210       
Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)    $7,472       $6,940    
Net Interest Spread        2.58%       2.97%
Net interest income as percent                   
of earning-assets (net interest margin)        2.93%       3.23%
Tax-equivalent adjustment (3)     (623)       (441)   
Net interest income    $6,849       $6,499    

——————

(1)

Average balances for available-for-sale securities are based on amortized cost

(2) Average balances for loans include loans on non-accrual status
(3) The tax-equivalent adjustment was computed based on a statutory Federal income tax rate of 34 percent
18
cost.

(2)

Average balances for loans include loans on non-accrual status.

(3)

The tax-equivalent adjustment was computed based on a statutory Federal income tax rate of 34 percent.



20



Analysis of Financial Condition

The Corporation’s total assets increased by $169.7$163.7 million or 16.8%16.2% from $1.009 billion at December 31, 2004, to $1.2$1.173 billion at JuneSeptember 30, 2005. TotalThe total includes assets included with a fair value of $115.3$115.4 million acquired from the Red Oak Bank acquisition which closed on May 20, 2005. Total deposits increaseddecreased from $702.3 million on December 31, 2004 to $721.2$681.3 million on JuneSeptember 30, 2005, an increasea decrease of $18.9$21.0 million or 2.7%3.0%. Total deposits included $70.7 million from the Red Oak acquisition.

Investments


For the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the average volume of investment securities increased to $581.3$584.7 million, or 57.054.0 percent of average earning-assets, an increase of $82.1$81.0 million on average as compared to the same period in 2004. The tax-equivalent yield on investments increased by 2824 basis points to 4.834.92 percent from a yield of 4.554.68 percent during the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The 2824 basis points improvement in yield on the portfolio was attributable to the reinvestment of securityinvestment cash flow coupled with increased average volumes at higher rates as compared with the comparable period in 2004. A higher interest rate environment in 2005, coupled with a change in mix in the portfolio to higher yielding tax-free securities, favorably impacted the change in portfolio yield. The cash flow from the sale of investment securities was invested back into the portfolio, which benefited from the positive changes in rates. The volume related figures during the three-month period ended June 30,2005,September 30, 2005, contributed an increase in revenue of $1,059,000$1,067,000 while rate related changes amounted to an increase of $273,000.$225,000. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the principal components of the investment portfolio are U.S. Government Federal Agency callable and non-callable securities, including agency issued collateralized mortgage obligations, corporate securities and municipal securities.

The growth in the average size of the investment portfolio for the three months ended September 30, 2005 reflected the increase in the Corporation’s funding sources to support the growth.

For the six-monthsnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the average volume of investment securities amounted to $571.8$576.2 million, or 58.256.7 percent of average earning assets, an increase of $68.4$72.6 million on average as compared to the same period in 2004. The tax-equivalent yield on investments increased by 23 basis points to 4.734.79 percent from a yield of 4.504.56 percent during the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The 23 basis points improvement in yield on the portfolio was attributable to the reinvestment of securityinvestment cash flow coupled with increased average volumes at higher rates as compared with the comparable period in 2004. A higher interest rate environment in 2005, coupled with a change in mix in the portfolio to higher yielding tax-free securities, favorably impacted the change in portfolio yield. The cash flow from the sale of investment securities was invested back into the portfolio, which benefited from the positive changes in rates. The volume related figures during the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 contributed an increase in revenue of $1,738,000,$2,814,000, while rate related changes amounted to an increase in revenue of $445,000.$672,000. The growth in the average size of the investment portfolio for both the six and threenine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 reflected the increase in the Corporation’s funding sources to support the growth.


Securities available-for-sale are a part of the Corporation'sCorporation’s interest rate risk management strategy and may be sold in response to changes in interest rates, changes in prepayment risk, liquidity management and other factors. For the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation sold from its available-for-sale portfolio securities totaling approximately $24.0$10.9 million which resulted in a net gain of $23 thousand.


approximately $326,000.

At JuneSeptember 30, 2005 the net unrealized gain/loss carried as a component of other comprehensive income and included in stockholders’ equity net of tax amounted to a net unrealized loss of $1.043$3.335 million as compared withto an unrealized gain of $527,000 at December 31, 2004 and a netan unrealized lossgain of $4.682 million$746,000 at JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The current unrealized loss resulted from an increase in interest rates promulgated by the Federal Open Market Committee’s actions to continue to raise the Federal Funds rate and the resultant shift in the yield curve.


Loans


Loan growth during the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 includes the loans acquired in the merger withfrom Red Oak Bank. The Red Oak mergeracquisition contributed $36.4 million in commercial loans, $7.8 million in commercial and residential construction loans, $32.4 million in consumer and home equity loans and $13.0 million in residential mortgage loans. Total loans without the impact of the Red Oak mergeracquisition increased $30.5$34.7 million or 8.2%9.3% from December 31, 2004 to JuneSeptember 30, 2005. Growth for the period occurred primarily in the commercial and commercial real estate sectors of the portfolio and to a lesser extent in the consumer home equity portfolio. The



21



increased portfolio resulted from the Corporation’s business development efforts and has been enhanced in recent years by the Corporation’s expanded branch network. The addition of Red Oak Bank contributed $33.6 million and $20.7 million in average loan volume for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2005 as compared to the comparable periods in 2004, respectively. The increase in loan portfolio yields for the three month period was the result of a more favorable interest rate environment as compared with the comparable period in 2004, offset in part by a competitive rate pricing structure maintained by the Corporation to attract new loans and further by the heightened competition for lending relationships that exists in the Corporation’s market. The Corporation’s desire to grow this segment of the earning-asset mix is reflected in its current business development plan and marketing plans, as well as its short-term strategic plan.


19

For the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, average loan volume, inclusive of the average volume acquired from Red Oak, increased $74.0$127.6 million or 20.4734.43 percent, while the portfolio yield increased by 4758 basis points as compared with the same period in 2004. The volume related factors during the period contributed revenue of $979,000$1,758,000 and rate related changes amounted to an improvement in revenue of $459,000.$581,000. Total average loan volume increased to $435.5$498.1 million with a yield of 5.445.66 percent, as compared to $361.5$370.6 million with a yield of 4.975.08 percent for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The increased portfolio yield was a result of increased volume and a more favorable interest rate environment during the secondthird quarter of 2005, compared with the similar quarter of 2004.


For the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, average loan volume, inclusive of the average volume acquired from Red Oak, increased $53.6$78.6 million or 15.1221.83 percent, while portfolio yield increased by 3744 basis points as compared with the same period in 2004. The volume related factors during the period contributed revenue of $1,407,000$3,149,000 and rate related changes amounted to an improvement in revenue of $689,000.$1,285,000. Total average loan volume increased to $408.3$438.6 million with a yield of 5.375.47 percent, as compared to $354.7$360.0 million with a yield of 5.005.03 percent for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The increased portfolio yield was a result of increased volume and a more favorable interest rate environment during the first sixnine months of 2005, compared with the similar period of 2004.


Allowance for Loan Losses and Related Provisions


The purpose of the allowance for loan losses is to absorb the impact of losses inherent in the loan portfolio. Additions to the allowance are made through provisions charged against current operations and through recoveries made on loans previously charged-off. The allowance for loan losses is maintained at an amount considered adequate by management to provide for potential credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio based upon a periodic evaluation of the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio. The amount of the loan loss provision and the level of the allowance for loan losses are critical accounting policies of the Corporation. In establishing an appropriate allowance, an assessment of the individual borrowers, a determination of the value of the underlying collateral, a review of historical loss experience, a review of peer group loss experience and an analysis of the levels and trends of loan categories, delinquencies, and problem loans are considered. Such factors as the level and trend of interest rates and current economic conditions are also reviewed. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the allowance amounted to $4,995,000$4,989,000 as compared to $3,781,000 at December 31, 2004, and $3,436,000$3,644,000 at JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The Corporation did not add any provision to the allowance for loan losses during the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 compared to $205,000 in provisions added during the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The Corporation did, however, add $1,210,000 in existing loan loss reserves as a result of the purchase of Red Oak Bank.Bank in May 2005. The level of the allowance during the respective three-month periods of 2005 and 2004 reflects continued highthe credit quality trends,within the loan portfolio, the loan volume recorded during the periods and the Corporation’s focus on the changing composition of the commercial and residential real estate loan portfolios.


At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, and December 31, 2004, the allowance for loan losses amounted to 1.000.99 percent of total loans, as compared with 0.941.00 percent at JuneDecember 31, 2004 and 0.96 percent at September 30, 2004. In management’s view, the level of the allowance as of JuneSeptember 30, 2005 is adequate to cover the risk of loss inherent in the loan portfolio. The Corporation’s statements herein regarding the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses constitute “Forward-Looking Statement’s” under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ materially from management’s analysis, based principally upon factors considered by management in establishing the allowance.


Although management uses the best information available, the level of the allowance for loan losses remains an estimate, which is subject to significant judgment and short-term changes. Various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Corporation’s allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require the Corporation to increase the allowance based on their analysis of information available to



22



them at the time of their examinations. Future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary due to economic, operating, regulatory, and other conditions beyond the Corporation’s control. To the extent actual results differ from forecasts or management’s judgment, the allowance for loan losses may be greater or less than future charge-offs.


During the three-month and six-monthnine-month periods ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004, the Corporation did not experience any substantial credit problems within its loan portfolio. Net recoverieschargeoffs for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 were approximately $4,000$2,000 and were comprised of installment loans, aswhich includes overdrafts charged-off, compared with net recoveries of approximately $24,000$27,000 for the comparable sixnine month period in 2004, which were comprised of a home equity and installment loan.


The Corporation had approximately $350,000$349,000 of non-accrual loans at JuneSeptember 30, 2005, which were comprised of five commercial loans. There were no loans that were on non-accrual status at December 31, 2004 and there were $23,000$24,000 on non-accrual status at JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The Corporation continues to aggressively pursue collections of principal and interest on loans previously charged-off.


20

All commercial and commercial real estate loans in a non-accrual status and/or internally classified as substandard or worse, in each instance above an established dollar threshold of $200,000 or more, are measured for possible impairment. The value of impaired loans is based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate or as a practical expedient, at the loan’s observable market price or at the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependant. Impaired loans consistdependent.If this valuation results in an amount that is less than the current book value of non-accrual loanssuch a loan, then the loan is deemed impaired and loans internally classified as substandardthe amount of the impairment is the difference between the figures. The Corporation will charge-off the impaired amount, establish a specific reserve in the amount of the impairment or below, in each instance above an established dollar thresholdperform a combination of $200,000.the two activities. When the valuation exceeds the loan’s current book value then impairment is not recognized. All loans below the established dollar threshold are considered homogenous and are collectively evaluated for impairment. The reserves allocated to such loans at June 30, 2005, December 31, 2004 and June 30, 2004, were $32,300, $1,000 and $2,000, respectively. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, total impaired loans were approximately $778,856 compared$300,000 and specific reserves of $44,000 were established to $205,529cover the impairment valuation. There were no such loans or specific reserves at December 31, 2004 and $279,000or at JuneSeptember 30, 2004. AlthoughIn management’s view, the level of the general allowance is adequate to absorb the impact of losses inherent in other loans internally classified as substandard impaired loans (other than thoseand/or in a non-accrual status) were current with respect to principal and interest payments.

status.



23



Changes in the allowance for possible loan losses for the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively, are set forth below.

Allowance for Loan Losses

 

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

  

(dollars in thousands)

 
        

Average loans outstanding

     

$

438,571

     

$

360,002

 

Total loans and loans held for sale at end of period

 

$

502,806

 

$

379,097

 

Analysis of the Allowance for Loan Losses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at the beginning of year

 

$

3,781

 

$

3,002

 

Charge-offs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

Installment loans

 

 

25

 

 

10

 

Total charge-offs

 

 

25

 

 

10

 

Recoveries:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

Installment loans

 

 

23

 

 

37

 

Total recoveries

 

 

23

 

 

37

 

Net charge-offs (recoveries):

 

 

2

 

 

(27

)

Addition of Red Oak Bank Reserve – May 20, 2005

 

 

1,210

 

 

0

 

Provision for loan losses

 

 

0

 

 

615

 

Balance at end of period

 

$

4,989

 

$

3,644

 

Ratio of net charge-offs during the period to average loans outstanding
during the period

 

 

N/M

 

 

N/M 

 

Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans at end of period

 

 

0.99

%

 

0.96

%

Allowance for Loan Losses      
  
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
Average loans outstanding $408,292 $354,665 
Total loans at end of period $498,602 $365,964 
Analysis of the Allowance for Loan Losses       
Balance at the beginning of year $3,781 $3,002 
Charge-offs:       
Commercial  0  0 
Installment loans  12  10 
Total charge-offs  12  10 
Recoveries:       
Commercial  0  0 
Installment loans  16  34 
Total recoveries  16  34 
Net recoveries:  (4) (24)
Addition of Red Oak Bank Reserve-May 20, 2005  1,210  0 
Provision for loan losses  0  410 
Balance at end of period $4,995 $3,436 
Ratio of net charge-offs during the period to       
average loans outstanding during the period  N/M  N/M 
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage       
of total loans at end of period  1.00% 0.94%

Asset Quality


The Corporation manages asset quality and credit risk by maintaining diversification in its loan portfolio and through review processes that include analysis of credit requests and ongoing examination of outstanding loans and delinquencies, with particular attention to portfolio dynamics and mix. The Corporation strives to identify loans experiencing difficulty early enough to correct the problems, to record charge-offs promptly based on realistic assessments of current collateral values, repayment capacity and ability to maintain an adequate allowance for loan losses at all times. These practices have protected the Corporation during economic downturns and periods of uncertainty.


It is generally the Corporation’s policy to discontinue interest accruals once a loan is past due as to interest and/or principal payments for a period of ninety days. When a loan is placed on non-accrual status, interest accruals cease and uncollected accrued interest is reversed and charged against current income. Payments received on non-accrual loans are applied against principal. A loan may only be restored to an accruing basis when it again becomes well secured and in the process of collection or all past due amounts have been collected. Accruing loans past due 90 days or more are generally well secured and in the process of collection.


At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation had no restructured loans and $88,000$49,000 of loans 90 days past due and still accruing. There were no restructured loans or loans 90 days past due and still accruing at December 31, 2004 or JuneSeptember 30, 2004. Non-accrual loans totaled $350,000$349,000 at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and were comprised of five commercial loans; no loans were on non-accrual status at December 31, 2004 and $23,000$24,000 in loans were on non-accrual status at JuneSeptember 30, 2004.

21



24




The outstanding balances of accruing loans, which are 90 days or more past due as to principal or interest payments, and non-accrual loans at JuneSeptember 30, 2005, December 31, 2004 and JuneSeptember 30, 2004, were as follows:

Non-Performing Loans

 

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

 

September 30,

 
 

 

2005

 

2004

 

2004

 

  

(dollars in thousands)

 
           

Non-accrual loans 

    

$

349

    

$

0

    

$

24

 

Accruing loans past due 90 days or more

 

 

49

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

Other real estate owned

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

 

0

 

Total non-performing assets

 

$

398

 

$

0

 

$

24

 

  
June 30,
 
December 31,
 
June 30,
 
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
2004
 
Non-accrual loans  $350 $0 $23 
Accruing loans past due 90 days or more  88  0  0 
Other real estate owned  0  0  0 
Total non-performing assets $438 $0 $23 

At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation had $350,000$349,000 of non-performing assets, consisting of loans on non-accrual status plus other real estate owned (OREO), or .0700.069 percent of total loans outstanding. At December 31, 2004, the Corporation had no non-performing assets. At JuneSeptember 30, 2004, the Corporation had $23,000$24,000 in non-performing assets, representing .0020.006 percent of total loans outstanding at JuneSeptember 30, 2004.


At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, other than the loans set forth above, the Corporation is not aware of any loans which present serious doubts as to the ability of its borrowers to comply with the present loan and repayment terms and which are expected to fall into one of the categories set forth in the table above. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, December 31, 2004 and JuneSeptember 30, 2004 the Corporation did not have any other real estate owned or restructured loans.


Non-Interest Income


The following table presents the principal categories of non-interest income during the three and sixnine month periods ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004.

  

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 
  

2005

 

2004

 

% Change

 

2005

 

2004

 

% Change

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Service charges, commissions and fees

 

$

501

    

$

513

    

 

(2.34

)   

$

1,471

    

$

1,471

    

 

0.00

 

Other income

 

 

235

 

 

133

 

 

76.69

 

 

490

 

 

344

 

 

42.44

 

Annuity & Insurance

 

 

49

 

 

5

 

  

880.00

 

 

163

 

 

25

 

 

552.00

 

Bank Owned Life Insurance

 

 

185

 

 

188

 

 

(1.60

)   

 

552

 

 

546

 

 

1.10

 

Gain on securities sold

 

 

326

 

 

0

 

  

100.0

 

 

362

 

 

157

 

 

130.57

 

Total other income

 

$

1,296

 

$

839

 

 

54.47

 

$

3,038

 

$

2,543

 

 

19.47

 

      
  
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
% change
 
2005
 
2004
 
% change
 
Service charges, commissions and fees $475 $477  (0.42)$970 $958  1.25 
Other income  159  109  45.87  255  211  20.85 
Annuity & Insurance  72  12  500.00  114  20  470.00 
Bank Owned Life Insurance  185  192  (3.65) 367  358  2.51 
Gain on securities sold  23  31  (25.81) 36  157  (77.07)
Total other income $914 $821  11.33 $1,742 $1,704  2.23 

For the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, non-interest income, exclusive of gains on securities sold (which decreased $8,000)increased $326,000), increased $101,000$131,000 or 12.7815.61 percent from the comparable quarter of 2004. Management discloses non-interest income excluding gains/losses on securities sold (as well as including gains/losses on securities sold) to distinguish between those types of non-interest income that are recurring compared to income that is nonrecurring.non-recurring. Non-interest income, including gains on securities sold, increased $93,000$457,000 or 11.3354.45 percent for the secondthird quarter of 2005 as compared with the comparable quarter in 2004. The increased revenue was primarily driven by loan fees, annuity and insurance sales fees, and gains realized on various employee benefit plans recorded in other income.

income and gains on securities sold.

For the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, non-interest income, exclusive of gains on securities sold (which decreased $121,000) increased $159,000$205,000) increased $290,000 or 10.2812.12 percent from the comparable quarter ofperiod in 2004. Non-interest income, including gains on securities sold increased $38,000$495,000 or 2.2319.45 percent for the six-monthnine-month period in 2005 compared with the comparable period in 2004. The increased revenue was primarily driven by the increase in service charges, loan fees, annuity and insurance sales fees, and gains realized on various employee benefit plans recorded in other income.

income and gains on securities sold.

For the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation recorded a net gain of $23,000$326,000 on securities sold from the available-for-sale investment portfolio compared to gains of $31,000$0 for the three monththree-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. During the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation recorded a net



25



gain of $36,000$362,000 on securities sold from the available-for-sale investment portfolio compared to gains of $157,000 for the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. These sales, in both the 2005 and 2004 periods, were made in the normal course of business and proceeds were reinvested in securities.

22


Non-Interest Expense


Total noninterstnon-interest expense, including salary and employee benefits, net occupancy expense and furniture and equipment expense, include the operating expenses of Red Oak Bank since its acquisition on May 20, 2005. Primarily included in theseThese expenses isinclude the cost related to the one branch acquired which was also Red Oak’sOak Bank’s administration building. Other expenses in the secondthird quarter also include the core deposit intangible amortization of $18,000$54,000 resulting from the Red Oak Bank acquisition; other increased costs resulting from the acquisition include increased occupancy and bank premise expense, audit, , marketing and advertising and computer related expenses related to the integration of Red Oak Bank into Union Center National Bank.

The following table presents the principal categories of non-interest expense during the three months and six-monthnine-month periods ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004.

  

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 
  

2005

 

2004

 

% Change

 

2005

 

2004

 

% Change

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Salaries and employee benefits

   

$

3,168

   

$

2,685

   

 

17.99

   

$

9,049

   

$

7,963

   

 

13.64

 

Occupancy, net

 

 

575

 

 

455

 

 

26.37

 

 

1,587

 

 

1,477

 

 

7.45

 

Premises & equipment

 

 

499

 

 

457

 

 

9.19

 

 

1,440

 

 

1,377

 

 

4.58

 

Stationery & printing

 

 

156

 

 

127

 

 

22.83

 

 

458

 

 

423

 

 

8.27

 

Marketing & advertising

 

 

183

 

 

112

 

 

63.39

 

 

515

 

 

408

 

 

26.23

 

Other expense

 

 

1,356

 

 

914

 

 

48.36

 

 

3,650

 

 

2,997

 

 

21.79

 

Total other expense

 

$

5,937

 

$

4,750

 

 

24.99

 

$

16,699

 

$

14,645

 

 

14.03

 

  
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
2005
 
2004
 
% change
 
2005
 
2004
 
% change
 
Salaries and employee benefits $3,004 $2,641  13.74 $5,881 $5,278  11.42 
Occupancy, net  442  459  (3.70) 1,012  1,022  (0.98)
Premises & equipment  483  475  1.68  941  920  2.28 
Marketing & advertising  160  147  8.84  332  296  12.16 
Stationery & printing  181  144  25.69  302  296  2.03 
Other expense  1,153  1,038  11.08  2,294  2,083  10.13 
Total other expense $5,423 $4,904  10.58 $10,762 $9,895  8.76 

For the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, total other expenses increased $519,000$1,187,000 or 10.5825.0 percent over the comparable three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004, with personnel, stationery and printing, marketing and other expenses accounting for most of the increase. The Corporation’s ratio of other expenses (annualized) to average assets decreasedincreased to 1.992.04 percent in the secondthird quarter of 2005 from 2.132.03 percent for the comparable quarter of 2004.


Salaries and employee benefits increased $363,000$483,000 or 13.7418.0 percent for the three months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 as compared to the comparable three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. This increase is primarily attributable to costs associated with increased staffing levels. Staffing levels increased to 212203 full-time equivalent employees at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 compared to 189187 full-time equivalent employees at JuneSeptember 30, 20042004. The increase reflects staffing of positions which included staffing positions previously were vacant and further included in that increase were 8eight full-time equivalent employees retained in the acquisition of Red Oak Bank.


Other expense for the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 increased $115,000$442,000 or 11.08%48.36% as compared to the comparable quarter in 2004 and was primarily attributable to increased computer, appraisal,audit, legal and consulting, compliance and audit fees in 2005.


Total other expensesnon-interest expense for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 increased $867,000$2,054,000 or 8.7614.03 percent over the comparable sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004, with personnel, marketing and other expenses accounting for most of the increase. The Corporation’s ratio of other expenses (annualized) to average assets decreased to 2.05 percent for the period from 2.162.11 percent for the comparable sixnine months of 2004.


Salaries and employee benefits increased $603,000$1,086,000 or 11.4213.64 percent for the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 as compared to the comparable six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. This increase is primarily attributable to costs associated with increased staffing levels, including the staff associated with the Red Oak Merger.


Bank acquisition.

Other expense for the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 increased $211,000$653,000 or 10.13%21.79% as compared to the comparable six-monthnine-month period in 2004 and was primarily attributable to increased advertising and marketing, computer, appraisal, audit, legal and consulting, compliance and audit fees in 2005.



26



Provision for Income Taxes


For the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the effective tax rate was 17.419.0 percent as compared to 19.418.5 percent for the three-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. For the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the effective tax rate was 13.315.5 percent as compared with 18.118.2 percent for the comparable period in 2004. The effective tax rate for the three and sixnine month periods ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004 continues to be less than the combined statutory Federal tax rate of 34.0 percent and the New Jersey State tax rate of 9.0 percent. The difference between the statutory and effective tax rates primarily reflects the tax-exempt status of interest income on obligations of states and political subdivisions, an increase in the cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance and disallowed expense items for tax purposes, such as travel and entertainment expense. Tax-exempt interest income increased by $493,000$527,000 or 57.557.0 percent for the three month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, and increased $866,000$1,421,000 or 49.253.5 percent for the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 as compared to the comparable three and sixnine month periods in 2004, respectively.


23


Asset Liability Management


The composition and mix of the Corporation'sCorporation’s assets and liabilities is planned and monitored by the Asset and Liability Committee (ALCO). Asset and Liability management encompasses the control of interest rate risk (interest sensitivity management) and the ongoing maintenance and planning of liquidity and capital. In general, management'smanagement’s objective is to optimize net interest income and minimize interest rate risk by monitoring these components of the statement of condition.


Interest Sensitivity Market Risk


"

Market risk"risk” represents the risk of loss from adverse changes in market prices and rates. The Corporation'sCorporation’s market rate risk arises primarily from interest rate risk inherent in its investing, lending and deposit taking activities. To that end, management actively monitors and manages its interest rate risk exposure.


The Corporation'scorporation’s profitability is affected by fluctuations in interest rates. A sudden and substantial increase or decrease in interest rates may adversely affect the Corporation'sCorporation’s earnings to the extent that the interest rates borne by assets and liabilities do not similarly adjust. The Corporation'sCorporation’s primary objective in managing interest rate risk is to minimize the adverse impact of changes in interest rates on the Corporation'sCorporation’s net interest income and capital, while structuring the Corporation'sCorporation’s asset-liability structure to obtain the maximum yield-cost spread on that structure. The Corporation relies primarily on its asset-liability structure to control interest rate risk. The Corporation continually evaluates interest rate risk management opportunities, including the use of derivative financial instruments. The management of the Corporation believes that hedging instruments currently available are not cost-effective, and, therefore, has focused its efforts on increasing the Corporation'sCorporation’s yield-cost spread through wholesale and retail growth opportunities.


The Corporation monitors the impact of changes in interest rates on its net interest income using several tools. One measure of the Corporation'sCorporation’s exposure to differential changes in interest rates between assets and liabilities is the Corporation'sCorporation’s analysis of its interest rate sensitivity. This test measures the impact on net interest income and on net portfolio value of an immediate change in interest rates in 100 basis point increments. Net portfolio value is defined as the net present value of assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet contracts.


The primary tool used by management to measure and manage interest rate exposure is a simulation model. Use of the model to perform simulations reflecting changes in interest rates over one and two-year time horizons has enabled management to develop and initiate strategies for managing exposure to interest rate risk. In its simulations, management estimates the impact on net interest income of various changes in interest rates. Projected net interest income sensitivity to movements in interest rates is modeled based on both an immediate rise and fall in interest rates ("(“rate shock"shock”), as well as gradual changes in interest rates over a 12 month12-month time period. The model is based on the actual maturity and repricing characteristics of interest-rate sensitive assets and liabilities. The model incorporates assumptions regarding earning-asset and deposit growth, prepayments, interest rates and other factors. Management believes that both individually and taken together, these assumptions are reasonable, but the complexity of the simulation modeling process results in a sophisticated estimate, not an absolutely precise calculation, of exposure. For example, estimates of future cash flows must be made for instruments without contractual maturity or payment schedules.



27



The Corporation'sCorporation’s rate sensitivity position in each time frame may be expressed as assets less liabilities, as liabilities less assets, or as the ratio between rate sensitive assets (RSA) and rate sensitive liabilities (RSL). For example, a short funded position (liabilities repricing before assets) would be expressed as a net negative position, when period gaps are computed by subtracting repricing liabilities from repricing assets. When using the ratio method, a RSA/RSL ratio of 1 indicates a balanced position, a ratio greater than 1 indicates an asset sensitive position and a ratio less than 1 indicates a liability sensitive position.


A negative gap, and/or a rate sensitivity ratio less than 1, tends to expand net interest margins in a falling rate environment and to reduce net interest margins in a rising rate environment. Conversely, when a positive gap occurs, generally margins expand in a rising rate environment and contract in a falling rate environment. From time to time, the Corporation may elect to deliberately mismatch liabilities and assets in a strategic gap position.


24

At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation reflects a negative interest sensitivity gap (or an interest sensitivity ratio) of  0.74:62:1.00 at the cumulative one-year position. During the first quarterall of 2005 and most of 2004 the Corporation had a negative interest sensitivity gap. Management'sManagement’s perception is that interest rates will continue to be volatile; therefore emphasis has been, and is expected to continue to be, placed on interest-sensitivity matching with the objective of stabilizing the net interest spread during 2005. However, no assurance can be given that this objective will be met.


Estimates of Fair Value


The estimation of fair value is significant to a number of the Corporation’s assets, including available for sale securities. Fair values are volatile and may be influenced by a number of factors. Circumstances that could cause estimates of the fair value of certain assets and liabilities to change include a change in prepayment speeds, discount rates, or market interest rates. Fair values for most available for sale investment securities are based on quoted market prices. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic condition, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature, involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.


Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices


The financial statements and notes thereto, presented elsewhere herein, have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, which require the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollars without considering the change in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. The impact of inflation is reflected in the increased cost of the operations, since unlike most industrial companies, nearly all of the Corporation’s assets and liabilities are monetary. As a result, interest rates have a greater impact on performance than do the effects of general levels of inflation. Interest rates do not necessarily move in the same direction or to the same extent as the prices of goods and services.


Liquidity Management


The liquidity position of the Corporation is dependent on successful management of its assets and liabilities so as to meet the needs of both deposit and credit customers. Liquidity needs arise principally to accommodate possible deposit outflows and to meet customers'customers’ requests for loans. Scheduled principal loan repayments, maturing investments, short-term liquid assets and deposit in-flows can satisfy such needs. The objective of liquidity management is to enable the Corporation to maintain sufficient liquidity to meet its obligations in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Management monitors current and projected cash flows, and adjusts positions as necessary to maintain adequate levels of liquidity. By using a variety of potential funding sources and staggering maturities, the risk of potential funding pressure is reduced. Management also maintains a detailed liquidity contingency plan designed to respond adequately to situations which could lead to liquidity concerns.

At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation had outstanding loan origination commitments of $142.0$147.6 million. These commitments include home equity loans of $75.2$71.1 million, commercial loans of $35.3$40.2 million and real estate related committmentscommitments of 31.0 million and$36.3 million. The Corporation also had unfunded letters of credit, all due in one year or less, of $16.7$18.1 million. Time deposits issued in amounts of $100,000 or more maturing within one year total $104.3 million.

totaled $107.9 million at September 30, 2005.



28



The historically low rate environment has created heavy refinance activity influenced to some degree by the amount of mortgage loans originated by the Corporation. The Corporation sells a portion of these loans into the secondary market and such loans are included in loans held for sale. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005 there were $260,000 in loans available for sale and in 2004 there were no loans available for sale.


Management believes that the Corporation has the funding capacity to meet the liquidity needs arising from potential events. In addition to pledgeable securities, the Corporation also maintains borrowing capacity through the Federal Discount Window and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York secured with loans and marketable securities.


Liquidity is measured and monitored for the Bank. The Corporation reviews its net short-term mismatch. This measures the ability of the Corporation to meet obligations should access to bank dividends be constrained. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the parent Corporation had $19.4$6.6 million in cash compared to $2.4$11.8 million at JuneSeptember 30, 2004. The increasedecrease in cash at the parent Corporation level was primarily due to the $20 million private placementinvesting activity and increased capitalization of the Corporation’s common stock consummated on June 30, 2005.subsidiary bank. Expenses at the parent Corporation are minimal and management believes that the parent Corporation has adequate liquidity to fund its obligations.

25

Certain provisions of long-term debt agreements prevent the Corporation from creating liens on, disposing of or issuing voting stock of subsidiaries. As of JuneSeptember 30, 2005 the Corporation was in compliance with all covenants and provisions of these agreements.


Management monitors current and projected cash flows, and adjusts positions as necessary to maintain adequate levels of liquidity. By using a variety of potential funding sources and staggering maturities, the risk of potential funding pressure is somewhat reduced. Management also maintains a detailed liquidity contingency plan designed to adequately respond to situations which could lead to liquidity concerns.

Anticipated cash-flows at JuneSeptember 30, 2005, projected to JulySeptember 2006, indicates that the Bank'sBank’s liquidity should remain strong, with an approximate projection of $252.4$229.0 million in anticipated cash flows over the next twelve months. This projection represents a forward-looking statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ materially from this projection depending upon a number of factors, including the liquidity needs of the Bank'sBank’s customers, the availability of sources of liquidity and general economic conditions.


Deposits


Total deposits increaseddecreased from $702.3 million on December 31, 2004 to $721.2$681.3 million on JuneSeptember 30, 2005, an increasea decrease of $18.9$21.0 million, or 2.7%3.0%. Total non-interest bearing deposits increased from $127.2 million to $148.7$137.8 million, an increase of $21.5$10.6 million or 16.9%8.3%. This increase included $7.9 million from the acquisition of Red Oak Bank. Savings and interest bearing transaction accounts decreased from $575.0 million on December 31, 2004 to $572.5$543.5 million on JuneSeptember 30, 2005, a decrease of $2.5$31.5 million or .43%5.5%. The Corporation acquired $62.7 million in interest-bearing transaction accounts from the Red Oak Bank acquisition. Time deposits under $100,000 decreased $1.8$2.3 million to $27.4$22.6 million, while time deposits $100,000 and over decreased $45.7$45.6 million to $118.1$118.2 million. The Red Oak acquisition contributed $42.0 million in time deposits including $13.0 million in time deposits $100,000 and over


over.

The Corporation derives a significant proportion of its liquidity from its core deposit base. For the six monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, core deposits, comprised of demand deposits, savings and money market accounts, increased by $54.9$19.7 million or 11.9%4.3% from December 31, 2004 to $515.9$480.6 million. CoreAt September 30, 2005, core deposits are 71.5%were 70.6% of total deposits compared to 65.6% at year-end 2004. Alternatively, the Corporation uses a more stringent calculation for the management of its liquidity positions internally which consists of total demand and savings accounts (excluding Super Max and money market accounts under $100,000) and excludes time deposits as part of core deposits as a percentage of total deposits. This number increased primarily from the addition of Red Oak Bank and represented 52.251.7 percent of total deposits as compared with 43.649.4 percent at JuneSeptember 30, 2004

2004.



29



The following table depicts the Corporation'sCorporation’s internal core deposit mix at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 and 2004:

Core Deposit Mix

 

 

September 30,
2005
Amount

 

Percentage

 

September 30,
2004
Amount

 

Percentage

 

Net Change
in Volume
2005 vs. 2004

 

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Demand Deposits

    

$

137,779

    

 

39.2

    

$

124,743

 

 

41.5

    

$

13,036

 

Interest-Bearing Demand

 

 

114,086

 

 

32.4

 

 

72,833

 

 

24.2

 

 

41,253

 

Regular Savings

  

77,553

  

22.0

  

78,051

  

26.0

  

(498

)

Money Market Deposits under $100,000

 

 

22,579

 

 

6.4

 

 

24,890

 

 

8.3

 

 

(2,311

)

Total core deposits

 

$

351,997

 

 

100.0

 

$

300,517

 

 

100.0

 

$

51,480

 

Total deposits

 

$

681,278

 

 

 

$

608,949

 

 

 

$

72,329

 

Core deposits to total deposits

 

 

51.7

%  

 

 

 

49.4

%    

 

 

 

 

CORE DEPOSIT MIX 
            
    
June 30,
     
Net Change in
 
  
2005
   
2004
   
Volume 2005
 
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
Amount
 
Percentage
 
Amount
 
Percentage
 
vs. 2004
 
Demand Deposits $148,742  39.5 $122,891  44.5 $25,851 
Interest-Bearing Demand  117,683  31.3  67,393  24.4  50,290 
Regular Savings  82,282  21.9  59,781  21.6  22,501 
Money Market Deposits under $100,000  27,412  7.3  26,240  9.5  1,172 
Total core deposits $376,119  100.0 $276,305  100.0 $99,814 
Total deposits $721,206    $633,316    $87,890 
Core deposits to total deposits  52.2%    43.6%      

More volatile rate sensitive deposits, concentrated in time certificates of deposit greater than $100,000, for the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, decreasedincreased to 16.3817.35 percent of total deposits from 19.1115.00 percent during the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004, and declined from 23.32% at December 31, 2004.


Short-term borrowings can be used to satisfy daily funding needs. Balances in these accounts fluctuate significantly on a day-to-day basis. The Corporation'sCorporation’s principal short-term funding sources are securities sold under agreements to repurchase, advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank and Federal funds purchased. Average borrowings during the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 were $260.0$291.9 million, an increase of $17.7$48.8 million or 7.3120.09 percent from $242.3$243.1 million in average borrowings during the comparable sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004.

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During the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, average funding sources increased by approximately $115.3$137.0 million or 13.4415.85 percent, compared to the same period in 2004. Interest-bearing deposit liabilities increased approximately $89.1$78.5 million on average and were comprised primarily of increases in time deposits, and other interest-bearing and money market deposits, offset by a decline in savings deposits. Non-interest-bearing funding sources as a percentage of the total funding mix decreased to 13.913.6 percent on average as compared to 14.814.7 percent for the sixnine month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2004. This reflects a shift in deposit mix to interest-bearing funding sources as a percentage of the funding base as compared with overall deposit growth.


Operating, Investing and Financing Cash Flow


The consolidated statements of cash flows present the changes in cash and cash equivalents from operating, investing and financing activities. During the sixnine months ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, cash and cash equivalents (which increased overall by $20.0$13.975 million) were provided (on a net basis) by financing activities in the amount of approximately $65.9$61.6 million primarily due to a $54.9$92.6 million net increase in cash flow from short term borrowings, $45.2$44.4 million increase in Federal Home Loan Bank advances and $19.5$19.3 million in proceeds from common stock issuances offset by $51.7$91.7 million decrease in deposits and $1.9$3.3 million in dividends paid. Approximately $3.3$4.8 million was provided by operating activities and $49.3$52.4 million was used in financing activities, principally $241.2$31.6 million of securities purchased and $30.5 million$34.7million growth in the loan portfolio offset by paydowns and maturities of investment securities.


Stockholders'Stockholders’ Equity


Total stockholders'stockholders’ equity averaged $71.3$81.3 million or 6.807.47 percent of average assets for the sixnine month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005, as compared to $54.6$54.5 million, or 5.955.90 percent, during the same period in 2004. The Corporation's dividend reinvestment and optional stock purchase plan contributed $382,000 in new capital for the six months ended June 30, 2005 as compared with $503,000 for the comparable period in 2004. Book value per common share was $7.57 at June 30, 2005 as compared to $5.41 at June 30, 2004. Tangible book value (i.e., book value less goodwill) per common share was $6.20 at June 30, 2005 and $5.19 at June 30, 2004.


On June 30, 2005, the Corporation issued 1,904,761 shares of the holding company'scompany’s common stock to a limited number of accredited investors in a private placement of its securities. The shares were issued at a purchase price of $10.50 per share. Net proceeds to the holding company were approximately $18.9 million, after commissions and expenses.
The Corporation’s dividend reinvestment and optional stock purchase plan contributed $399,000 in new capital for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 as compared with $981,000 for the comparable period in 2004. Book value per common share was $7.45 at September 30, 2005 as compared to $6.51 at September 30, 2004. Tangible book value (i.e., book value less goodwill) per common share was $6.15 at September 30, 2005 and $6.31 at September 30, 2004.



30



As of JuneSeptember 30, 2005 the Corporation has purchased 57,330 common shares at an average cost per share of $9.38 under the stock buyback program announced on January 24, 2002 for the repurchase of up to 266,254 shares of the Corporation’s outstanding common stock. The repurchased shares were recorded as Treasury Stock, which resulted in a decrease in stockholder’s equity. For the six-monthnine-month period ended JuneSeptember 30, 2005 there were no repurchases made.


Capital


The maintenance of a solid capital foundation continues to be a primary goal for the Corporation. Accordingly, capital plans and dividend policies are monitored on an ongoing basis. The most important objective of the capital planning process is to balance effectively the retention of capital to support future growth and the goal of providing stockholders with an attractive long-term return on their investment.


Risk-Based Capital/Leverage


Banking regulations require banks to maintain minimum levels of regulatory capital. Under the regulations in effect at JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Bank was required to maintain (i) a minimum leverage ratio of Tier 1 capital to total adjusted assets of 4.00%, and (ii) minimum ratios of Tier 1 and total capital to risk-weighted assets of 4.00% and 8.00%, respectively.


At JuneSeptember 30, 2005, total Tier 1 capital (defined as tangible stockholders'stockholders’ equity for common stock and certain perpetual preferred stock) amounted to $100.0$101.4 million or 8.488.86 percent of total assets. Tier I capital excludes the effect of SFAS No. 115, $1.043$3.335 million of net unrealized losses, after tax, on securities available-for-sale (included as a component of other comprehensive income) and goodwill of approximately $18.4$17.4 million as of JuneSeptember 30, 2005. At JuneSeptember 30, 2005 the Corporation'sCorporation’s estimated Tier I risk-based and total risk-based capital ratios were 14.4614.65 percent and 15.1915.37 percent, respectively. These ratios are well above the minimum guidelines of capital to risk-adjusted assets in effect as of JuneSeptember 30, 2005.


Under prompt corrective action regulations, bank regulators are required to take certain supervisory actions (and may take additional discretionary actions) with respect to an undercapitalized institution. Such actions could have a direct material effect on the institution'sinstitution’s financial statements. The regulations establish a framework for the classification of financial institutions into five categories: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized and critically undercapitalized. Generally, an institution is considered well capitalized if it has a leverage (Tier 1) capital ratio of at least 5.0%; a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 6.0%; and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10.0%.

27


The foregoing capital ratios are based in part on specific quantitative measures of assets, liabilities and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the bank regulators about capital components, risk weightings and other factors. As of JuneSeptember 30, 2005, management believes that each of the Bank and the Corporation meet all capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject.


Subordinated Debentures

On December 18, 2001, Center Bancorp Statutory Trust I, a statutory business trust and wholly-owned subsidiary of Center Bancorp, Inc., issued $10.0 million of floating rate capital trust pass through securities to investors due on December 18, 2031. The trust loaned the proceeds of this offering to the Corporation and received in exchange $10.3 million of the Corporation’s subordinated debentures. The subordinated debentures are redeemable in whole or part, prior to maturity but after December 18, 2006. The floating interest rate on the subordinated debentures is three month LIBOR plus 3.60% and reprices quarterly. The rate at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 was 7.03 %.


7.49%.

On December 19, 2003, Center Bancorp Statutory Trust II, a statutory business trust and wholly-owned subsidiary of Center Bancorp, Inc., issued $5.0 million of, MMCapS capital securities to investors due on January 23, 2034. The capital securities qualify as Tier 1 capital. The trust loaned the proceeds of this offering to the Corporation and received in exchange $5.2 million of the Corporation’s subordinated debentures. The subordinated debentures are redeemable in whole or part, prior to maturity but after January 23, 2009. The floating interest rate on the subordinated debentures is three month LIBOR plus 2.85% and reprices quarterly. The rate at JuneSeptember 30, 2005 was

6.06 %.
6.54%.



31



The capital raised with respect to the issuance of the above mentioned securities was used to bolster the Corporation'sCorporation’s capital and for general corporate purposes, including capital contributions to Union Center National Bank.


Looking Forward


One of the Corporation'sCorporation’s primary objectives is to achieve balanced asset and revenue growth, and at the same time expand market presence and diversify its financial products. However, it is recognized that objectives, no matter how focused, are subject to factors beyond the control of the Corporation, which can impede its ability to achieve these goals. The following factors should be considered when evaluating the Corporation'sCorporation’s ability to achieve its objectives:

The financial market place is rapidly changing. Banks are no longer the only place to obtain loans, nor the only place to keep financial assets. The banking industry has lost market share to other financial service providers. The future is predicated on the Corporation'sCorporation’s ability to adapt its products, provide superior customer service and compete in an ever-changing marketplace.

Net interest income, the primary source of earnings, is impacted favorably or unfavorably by changes in interest rates. Although the impact of interest rate fluctuations is mitigated by ALCO strategies, significant changes in interest rates can have an adverse impact on profitability.

The ability of customers to repay their obligations is often impacted by changes in the regional and local economy. Although the Corporation sets aside loan loss provisions toward the allowance for loan losses, significant unfavorable changes in the economy could impact the assumptions used in the determination of the adequacy of the allowance.

Technological changes will have a material impact on how financial service companies compete for and deliver services. It is recognized that these changes will have a direct impact on how the marketplace is approached and ultimately on profitability. The Corporation has already taken steps to improve its traditional delivery channels. However, continued success will likely be measured by the ability to react to future technological changes.

This "Looking Forward"“Looking Forward” description constitutes a forward-looking statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the Corporation'sCorporation’s forward-looking statements due to numerous known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including the factors referred to above and in other sections of this quarterly report and the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004.

28

Item 3 -3. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures aboutAbout Market Risks


The primary market risk faced by the Corporation is interest rate risk. The Corporation'sCorporation’s Asset/Liability Committee ("ALCO"(“ALCO”) monitors the changes in the movement of funds and rate and volume trends to enable appropriate management responses to changing market and rate conditions.


The Corporation'sCorporation’s income simulation model analyzes interest rate sensitivity by projecting net interest income over the next 24 months in a flat rate scenario versus net interest in alternative interest rate scenarios. Management reviews and refines its interest rate risk management process in response to the changing economic climate. The low level of interest rates had necessitated a modification of the Corporation’s standard rate scenario of a shock down 200 basis points over 12 months to down 100 basis points over a 12-month period; however, due to the increase in rates that has occurred over the past year, we havethe Corporation has modified the model shocks back to the 200 basis point shock level as a means of measurement.


Based on the results of the interest simulation model as of JuneSeptember 30, 2005, and assuming that management does not take action to alter the outcome, the Corporation would expect an increase of 4.724.53 percent in net interest income if interest rates decreased 200 basis points from the current rates in an immediate and parallel shock over a 12-month period. In a rising rate environment, based on the results of the model as of JuneSeptember 30, 2005, the Corporation would expect a decrease of 9.769.08 percent in net interest income if interest rates increased by 200 basis points from current rates in an immediate shock over a twelve month period.


The statements in this Quarterly Report regarding the effects of hypothetical interest rate changes represent forward- looking statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ



32



materially from these statements. Computation of prospective effects of hypothetical interest rate changes are based on numerous assumptions, including relative levels of market interest rates, loan prepayments and duration of deposits, and should not be relied upon as indicative of actual results. Further, the computations do not contemplate any actions that ALCO could undertake in response to changes in interest rates.


Item 4 -4. Controls and Procedures


(a)  
Disclosure controls and procedures. As of the end of the Corporation’s most recently completed fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) covered by this report, the Corporation carried out an evaluation, with the participation of the Corporation’s management, including the Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-15. Based upon that evaluation, the Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by the Corporation in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

(b)  
Changes in internal controls over financial reporting. There have been no changes in the Corporation’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the Corporation’s last fiscal quarter to which this report relates that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.


29


(a)

Disclosure controls and procedures. As of the end of the Corporation’s most recently completed fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) covered by this report, the Corporation carried out an evaluation, with the participation of the Corporation’s management, including the Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-15. Based upon that evaluation, the Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by the Corporation in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

(b)

Changes in internal controls over financial reporting. There have been no changes in the Corporation’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the Corporation’s last fiscal quarter to which this report relates that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.

Part II PART II. OTHER INFORMATION


Item 11. Legal Proceedings


The Corporation is subject to claims and lawsuits, which arise primarily in the ordinary course of business. Based upon the information currently available, it is the opinion of management that the disposition or ultimate determination of such claims will not have a material adverse impact on the consolidated financial position, results of operations, or liquidity of the Corporation. This statement represents a forward-looking statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ materially from this statement, primarily due to the uncertainties involved in proving facts within the context of the legal processes.


Item 2 -2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds


On June 30, 2005, the Corporation issued 1,904,761 shares of the holding company'scompany’s common stock to a limited number of accredited investors in a private placement of its securities. The shares were issued at a purchase price of $10.50 per share. Net proceeds to the holding company were approximately $18.9 million, after commissions and expenses. For further information, see the Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 1, 2005.


Item 6 -6. Exhibits

Exhibit 31.1

Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 31.2

Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 32.1

Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 32.2

Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.


Exhibit 31.1 - Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 31.2 - Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

33


Exhibit 32.1 - Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 32.2 - Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
30

SIGNATURESIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements 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.

CENTER BANCORP, INC.

  
 CENTER BANCORP, INC.

By:



DATE: August 9, 2005By:  

/s/: Anthony C. Weagley 

 

Anthony C. Weagley,

 Date: November 9, 2005                                    

Treasurer (Chief Financial Officer)


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EXHIBIT INDEX


Exhibit 31.1 - Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 31.2 - Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 32.1 - Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 32.2 - Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.


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Exhibit 31.1

Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 31.2

Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 32.1

Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 32.2

Certification of the Registrant’s Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.