Net interest income decreased $2,272,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007. Interest income decreased by $1,623,000, primarily due to foregone interest income of $1,056,000 due to loans placed on nonaccrual status and a reduction in the interest earned on investment securities and Federal funds sold as a result of both lower average balances and lower yields. Interest expense increased $649,000 due primarily to an increase in average interest bearing liabilities of $58,487,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007. The net interest margin for the six months ended June 30, 2008 decreased 88 basis points to 4.34% from 5.22% for the six months ended June 30, 2007.
Currently the Company is retaining fixed-rate 15-and 30-year conforming residential mortgages to better diversify the portfolio and also adding fixed rate mortgages with the steepening of the yield curve in this declining rate environment. The Company will continue to sell the fixed rate jumbo mortgage loans it originates.
The Company recorded a provision for loan and lease losses of $5,200,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 and a total provision of $7,600,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008. The Company did not record any provision for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007. The process for determining allowance adequacy and the resultant provision for loan losses includes a comprehensive analysis of the loan portfolio. Factors in the analysis include size and mix of the loan portfolio, nonperforming loan levels, charge-off/recovery activity and other qualitative factors including economic environment and activity. The decision to record the $5,200,000 and $7,600,000 provision for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 reflects management’s assessment of the overall adequacy of the allowance for loan and lease losses including the consideration of the increase in nonperforming loans and the overall effect of the slowing economy, particularly in real estate. Management believes that the current level of allowance for loan and lease losses as of June 30, 2008 of $13,677,000, or 1.87% of total loans and leases, is adequate at this time. The allowance for loan and lease losses was $10,755,000, or 1.44% of total loans and leases, at December 31, 2007. For further information regarding our allowance for loan and lease losses, see “Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses” on page 24.
The following table is a summary of the Company’s noninterest income for the periods indicated (in thousands):
Noninterest income increased $307,000 from $3,170,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2007 to $3,477,000 for the same period in 2008. Service charges on deposits increased $207,000 from the three months ended June 30, 2007 compared to the same period in 2008, driven by growth in the number of demand accounts. Other fees and charges were $979,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 compared to $966,000 for the same period in 2007. The Company recorded $7,000 in gains on sales of mortgages for the three months ended June 30, 2008 compared to $44,000 in gains on sales of mortgages for the same period in 2007. Other income increased to $284,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $175,000 for the same period in 2007 primarily due to an increase in income from sales of annuity and other nondeposit investment products to customers.
Noninterest income increased $664,000 to $6,968,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $6,304,000 for the same period in 2007. The increase was primarily driven by the increase in service charges on deposit accounts of $279,000, an increase in other fees and charges of $86,000, and an increase in other income of $231,000. The increase in other noninterest income was primarily due to the mandatory redemption of shares from the VISA initial public offering and an increase in sales of annuity and other nondeposit investment products to customers.
Noninterest Expense
The following table is a summary of the Company’s noninterest expense for the periods indicated (in thousands):
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Three months ended June 30, | | Six months ended June 30, | |
(In thousands) | | 2008 | | 2007 | | 2008 | | 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Salaries & employee benefits | | $ | 5,105 | | $ | 5,475 | | $ | 10,641 | | $ | 11,034 | |
Occupancy expense | | | 720 | | | 754 | | | 1,474 | | | 1,523 | |
Data processing expenses | | | 575 | | | 528 | | | 1,107 | | | 1,122 | |
Equipment expense | | | 488 | | | 518 | | | 953 | | | 1,053 | |
Professional services | | | 312 | | | 375 | | | 599 | | | 810 | |
ATM expense | | | 262 | | | 246 | | | 489 | | | 505 | |
Marketing | | | 248 | | | 307 | | | 448 | | | 528 | |
Operations expense | | | 231 | | | 222 | | | 420 | | | 436 | |
Director | | | 130 | | | 147 | | | 353 | | | 315 | |
Amortization of intangibles | | | 162 | | | 163 | | | 325 | | | 325 | |
Postage | | | 154 | | | 128 | | | 303 | | | 254 | |
Printing & supplies | | | 148 | | | 149 | | | 346 | | | 388 | |
Merger expense | | | — | | | 756 | | | — | | | 756 | |
Other | | | 1,042 | | | 964 | | | 1,924 | | | 1,913 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Total noninterest expense | | $ | 9,577 | | $ | 10,732 | | $ | 19,382 | | $ | 20,962 | |
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|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Noninterest expense totaled $9,577,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008, compared to $10,732,000 for the same period in 2007. This represents a decrease of $1,155,000, or 10.8%, for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from the comparable period in 2007 due primarily to expenses related to the terminated merger with Sterling Financial Corporation of $950,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2007, $756,000 of which is included in the merger expense category and $194,000 of which is legal fees for the merger included in the professional services category in the above table. Salaries and benefits decreased by $370,000 or 6.8% to $5,105,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 compared to $5,475,000 for the same period in 2007 due primarily to a reduction in bonus accruals and a slight reduction in staffing. Data processing expense increased $47,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 compared to the same period in 2007. Most other expense categories for the three months ended June 30, 2008 experienced relatively small decreases or increases from the same respective period in 2007. The Company’s ratio of noninterest expense to average assets improved to 4.09% for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from 4.81% for the same period in 2007. The Company’s efficiency ratio improved to 76.34% for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from 80.92% for the same period in 2007.
Noninterest expense totaled $19,382,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008, compared to $20,962,000 for the same period in 2007. This represents a decrease of $1,580,000, or 7.54%, for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from the comparable period in 2007 due primarily to direct and legal expenses related to the terminated merger with Sterling Financial Corporation of $1,060,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2007. Salaries and benefits decreased by $393,000 to $10,641,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared to $11,034,000 for the same period in 2007. Most other expense categories for the six months ended June 30, 2008 experienced relatively small changes from the same respective period in 2007. The Company’s ratio of noninterest expense to average assets improved to 4.13% for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from 4.70% for the same period in 2007. The Company’s efficiency ratio improved slightly to 77.0% from 78.4% for the six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.
Income Taxes
The Company recorded a benefit for income taxes for the quarter ended June 30, 2008 of $722,000, resulting in an effective tax benefit rate of 32.4%, compared to a provision for income taxes of $810,000, or an effective tax rate of 32.0%, for the quarter ended June 30, 2007. The benefit for income taxes for the six month period ended June 30, 2008 was $588,000, resulting in an effective tax benefit rate of 32.4%, compared to a provision for income taxes of $1,847,000, or an effective tax rate of 32.0%, for the same period in 2007.
Financial Condition as of June 30, 2008 As Compared to December 31, 2007
Total assets at June 30, 2008 decreased $14,658,000 to $934,361,000, compared to $949,019,000 at December 31, 2007. Loans and leases decreased $15,970,000, or 2.1%, to $730,283,000 at June 30, 2008 from $746,253,000 at December 31, 2007. Deposits increased $7,492,000, or 1.0%, from December 31, 2007 to $744,231,000 at June 30, 2008. Investment securities decreased $13,663,000 to $90,709,000 at June 30, 2008, compared to $104,372,000 at December 31, 2007. Other borrowed funds decreased $19,077,000 to $68,115,000 at June 30, 2008 compared to $87,192,000 at December 31, 2007.
20
Loan and Lease Portfolio
Loans and leases, the Company’s major component of earning assets, decreased $15,970,000 during the first six months of 2008 to $730,283,000 at June 30, 2008, from $746,253,000 at December 31, 2007. Commercial real estate loans and commercial loans increased by $19,761,000 and $2,951,000, respectively, during the first six months of 2008, which was offset due to real estate construction loans decreasing by $39,403,000 during the first six months of 2008. Real estate – mortgage loans increased $4,877,000, while installment loans decreased $4,751,000 during the first six months of 2008. Direct financing leases and other loans increased from December 31, 2007 by $416,000.
The Company’s average loan to deposit ratio was 99.8% for the quarter ended June 30, 2008 compared to 88.5% for the same period in 2007. The increase in the Company’s average loan to deposit ratio is driven by an increase in total average loans of $87,052,000 while total average deposits increased by $2,870,000.
| | | | | | | |
(in thousands) | | June 30, 2008 | | December 31, 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | |
Commercial | | $ | 95,370 | | $ | 92,419 | |
Real estate - commercial | | | 317,033 | | | 297,272 | |
Real estate - construction | | | 186,355 | | | 225,758 | |
Real estate - mortgage | | | 55,008 | | | 50,131 | |
Installment | | | 36,410 | | | 41,161 | |
Direct financing leases | | | 1,168 | | | 1,307 | |
Other | | | 39,852 | | | 39,297 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
| | | 731,196 | | | 747,345 | |
| | | | | | | |
Deferred loan fees, net | | | (913 | ) | | (1,092 | ) |
Allowance for loan and lease losses | | | (13,677 | ) | | (10,755 | ) |
| | | | | | | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| | $ | 716,606 | | $ | 735,498 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Impaired, Nonaccrual, Past Due and Restructured Loans and Leases and Other Nonperforming Assets
The Company considers a loan or lease impaired if, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. The measurement of impaired loans and leases is generally based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the historical effective interest rate, except that all collateral-dependent loans and leases are measured for impairment based on the fair value of the collateral.
At June 30, 2008, the recorded investment in loans and leases for which impairment had been recognized was approximately $22,580,000 compared to $368,000 at June 30, 2007 and $1,608,000 at December 31, 2007. Of the 2008 balance, there was a related valuation allowance of $4,181,000. If interest had been accrued on the nonperforming loans, such income would have approximated $530,000 and $1,056,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively, compared to $5,000 and $20,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively.
At December 31, 2007, the recorded investment in loans and leases for which impairment had been recognized was approximately $1,608,000. Of the 2007 balance, there was a related valuation allowance of $83,000. For the year ended December 31, 2007, the average recorded investment in loans and leases for which impairment had been recognized was approximately $1,572,000. During the portion of the year that the loans and leases were impaired, the Company recognized interest income of approximately $38,000 for cash payments received in 2007.
Nonperforming loans (defined as nonaccrual loans and loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing interest) totaled $22,580,000 at June 30, 2008, an increase of $19,677,000 from the total at June 30, 2007 and an increase of $20,816,000 from December 31, 2007. Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans were 3.09% at June 30, 2008, compared to 0.43% at June 30, 2007, and 0.24% at December 31, 2007. Nonperforming assets (nonperforming loans and OREO) totaled $30,788,000 at June 30, 2008, an increase of $26,983,000 from June 30, 2007, and an increase of $28,122,000 from December 31, 2007. Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets were 3.30% at June 30, 2008 compared to 0.43% at June 30, 2007, and 0.28% at December 31, 2007.
21
The level of nonperforming loans decreased $3,170,000 to $22,580,000 at June 30, 2008 from $25,750,000 at March 31, 2008 primarily as a result of moving certain loans to OREO which increased $7,306,000 to total $8,208,000 at June 30, 2008. Overall, nonperforming assets increased $4,136,000 to $30,788,000 at June 30, 2008 from $26,652,000 at March 31, 2008. As discussed in the Company’s first quarter Form 10-Q, there were four real estate projects with loans totaling $24,047,000 which were the primary reason for the increase in nonperforming loans at March 31, 2008: two loans were for residential development projects for $9,509,000 and $6,750,000, respectively, and the other two were residential acquisition and development loans for $4,876,000 and $2,912,000, respectively. Set forth below is a discussion and update on those four loans.
The larger of the two residential development project loans (for $9,509,000) was included in our classified loans and risk-rated – Substandard at December 31, 2007 based on slower sales and a weakening real estate market. During the first quarter of 2008, the project’s absorption rates slowed from the current one sale per month to an estimated one sale per two to three months and the updated sales projections through March 31, 2008 raised a concern as to whether the borrower could continue to make the scheduled interest payments. Interest payments were current at December 31, 2007 (last payment for this loan was December 20, 2007). The Company met with the borrower in the first quarter of 2008 to discuss the status of the project and potential other sources of payments on the project and concluded the best strategy would be for the borrower to finish the houses under construction, have no new house starts and sell the finished lots. To understand the potential loss exposure and properly value the collateral support provided by the property with the continuing decline in real estate values in California, a new appraisal was ordered on the project in February 2008. The Company received the appraisal on March 7, 2008 and the appraisal demonstrated the continuing decline in the value of the underlying project. Although interest payments were current at December 31, 2007, the Company’s assessment that the borrower did not have the ability to continue to make the scheduled interest payments coupled with the decline in appraised value caused the decision to consider this loan as impaired, place the loan on nonaccrual and revaluate the level of specific reserve for the credit. This loan was placed on nonaccrual on March 25, 2008. As of June 30, 2008, this loan remains on nonaccrual. The specific reserve for this loan at June 30, 2008 was $2,650,000.
The second of the two residential development project loans (for $6,750,000) was included in our classified loans and risk-rated – Substandard at December 31, 2007 based on slower sales and a weakening real estate market. During the first quarter of 2008, the project’s absorption rates slowed and the updated sales projections through March 31, 2008 raised a concern as to whether the borrower could continue to make the scheduled interest payments. Interest payments were current at December 31, 2007 (last payment for this loan was January 3, 2008). The Company met with the borrower in the first quarter of 2008 to discuss the status of the project and potential other sources of payments on the project and concluded the best strategy would be for the borrower to finish the houses under construction, have no new house starts and sell the finished lots. To understand the potential loss exposure and properly value the collateral support provided by the properties with the continuing decline in real estate values in California, a new appraisal was ordered on the project in January 2008. The Company received the appraisal on February 25, 2008 and the appraisal demonstrated the continuing decline in the values of the underlying project. Although interest payments were current at December 31, 2007, the Company’s assessment that the borrower did not have the ability to continue to make the scheduled interest payments coupled with the decline in appraised value caused the decision to consider this loan as impaired, place the loan on nonaccrual and revaluate the level of specific reserves for the credit. This loan was placed on nonaccrual on March 25, 2008. This loan was paid down by $1.75 million to $5.0 million during the second quarter of 2008, and on June 27, 2008 the Company negotiated a deed in lieu of foreclosure and took the property into OREO (21 finished lots and 8 homes) at a carrying value of $3.3 million which represented the fair value of the property less estimated costs to sell at the time of transfer. On transfer to OREO, the Company took a charge to the Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses (ALLL) of $2.0 million to reflect the fair value of the OREO compared to the specific reserve at that time of $1.3 million. The Company sold the 21 lots for $1.4 million on June 30, 2008, and the remaining 8 homes remain in OREO at a carrying value of $1.9 million. On this loan, the Company charged-off $2.0 million in which there was a specific reserve of $1.3 million. The charge-off taken was $700 thousand greater than the reserve established as a result of the actual sales price of the lots being less than the value established based on the February 25, 2008 appraisal. This decline is reflective of the continued decline in real estate values and the business decision to liquidate this asset.
The larger of the two residential acquisition and development loans (for $4,876,000) was risk-rated – Special Mention at December 31, 2007. Interest payments were current at December 31, 2007 (last payment was February 8, 2008). The Company met with the borrower during the first quarter of 2008 and concluded from the meeting that due to a lack of sales the borrower was not capable of making the scheduled interest payments and the loan was placed on nonaccrual on March 31, 2008. The Company ordered a new appraisal on the property in May 2008 as part of the Company’s comprehensive review of its construction portfolio. The appraisal was received on May 23, 2008 and it demonstrated the continuing decline in the value of the underlying project. Although interest payments were current through February 2008, the Company’s assessment that the borrower did not have the ability to continue to make the scheduled interest payments coupled with the decline in appraised value resulted in the decision to consider this loan as impaired, place the loan on nonaccrual and revaluate the level of the related specific reserve for the credit. The Company negotiated a deed in lieu of foreclosure with the borrower as a strategy to avoid the threat of bankruptcy and potentially create an extended workout period. The deed in lieu of foreclosure represented the best course of action for the Company as we had spoken to interested buyers for the collateral and because we believed that having control of the asset improved our overall business position given the continuing decline in real estate values and the time requirements to work through a lengthy bankruptcy and foreclosure process. In negotiating the deed in lieu of foreclosure, we released certain existing collateral positions back to the borrower which resulted in a deficiency in the remaining available collateral supporting this loan. Additionally, we obtained a new appraisal on May 23, 2008 for the 57 multi-family lots which indicated a further decline in value. At June 30, 2008, we took $5.4 million of property into OREO consisting of 57 multi-family lots at a carrying value of $2.9 million and 11 rental homes at a carrying value of $2.5 million (the homes were from another loan that was cross-collateralized) and we took a charge against the allowance for loan and lease losses on the transfer to OREO of $1.3 million. We did not have any specific reserves on this borrowing prior to the transfer.
22
The second of the two residential acquisition and development loans (for $2,912,000) was risk-rated – Substandard at December 31, 2007. The loan was 30 days past due at December 31, 2007 (last payment was November 21, 2007). The Company met with the borrower during the first quarter of 2008 and concluded from the meeting that due to a lack of sales the borrower was not capable of making the scheduled interest payments and the loan was placed on nonaccrual on March 4, 2008. The Company ordered a new appraisal on the property in January 2008 as part of the Company’s comprehensive review of its construction portfolio. The appraisal was received on February 29, 2008 and it demonstrated the continuing decline in the value of the underlying project. The Company’s assessment that the borrower did not have the ability to continue to make the scheduled interest payments coupled with the decline in appraised value resulted in the decision to consider this loan as impaired, place the loan on nonaccrual and revaluate the level of the related specific reserves for this credit. During the second quarter of 2008, the Company negotiated a deed in lieu of foreclosure and transferred the property into OREO at a carrying value of $2.0 million which represented the fair value of the property less estimated costs to sell at the time of the transfer. Upon transfer the Company took a charge to the allowance of $1.0 million, compared to the specific reserve established of $900 thousand. On June 30, 2008, the Company sold the OREO property for $2.0 million with no additional gain or loss on the sale being recorded.
The total dollar amount of reductions in nonperforming loans from pay downs and the transfers to OREO during the second quarter of 2008 was $15,195,000. This decrease was offset by increases in certain other identified nonperforming loans totaling $12,025,000. This was primarily due to the addition in the second quarter of 2008 of two construction loans in the amount of $7,262,000 and $2,939,000, respectively. Set forth below is a discussion of those two loans.
The larger of the two loans (for $7,262,000) is a mixed-use construction loan for a project located in Sonoma County and was risk-rated – Substandard at March 31, 2008. Interest payments were current at June 30, 2008 (last payment was June 13, 2008). The Company ordered a new appraisal on the property in April, 2008 as part of the Company’s comprehensive review of its construction portfolio. The appraisal was received on May 9, 2008 and it demonstrated the continuing decline in the value of the underlying project. When the Company received the updated appraisal showing the decline in collateral values on this loan, the Company met with the borrower, requiring them to bring in additional cash to re-margin the loan and establish interest reserves. When the borrower was unable to comply with the requests, the Company determined that the loan was impaired, placed the loan on nonaccrual status, reversed all accrued and unpaid interest and recorded a specific reserve of $750,000 representing the amount of the probable loss based on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral, per the updated appraisal less estimated costs to sell. Although interest payments were current at June 30, 2008, the Company’s assessment that the borrower did not have the ability to continue to make the scheduled interest payments coupled with a decline in the recently appraised value caused the decision to consider this loan as impaired and to place the loan on nonaccrual.
The second of the two loans (for $2,939,000) is a residential development project located in Placer County and was risk-rated – Substandard at March 31, 2008. Interest payments were current at June 30, 2008 (last payment was June 25, 2008). The Company ordered a new appraisal on the property in February, 2008 as part of the Company’s comprehensive review of its construction portfolio. The appraisal was received on March 26, 2008 and it demonstrated the continuing decline in the value of the underlying project. When the Company received the updated appraisal showing the decline in collateral values on this loan, the Company met with the borrower, requiring them to bring in additional cash to re-margin the loan and establish interest reserves. When the borrower was unable to comply with the requests, the Company determined that the loan was impaired, placed the loan on nonaccrual status, reversed all accrued and unpaid interest and recorded a specific reserve of $250,000 representing the amount of the probable loss based on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral, per the updated appraisal less estimated costs to sell. Although interest payments were current at June 30, 2008, the Company’s assessment that the borrower did not have the ability to continue to make the scheduled interest payments coupled with a decline in the recently appraised value caused the decision to consider this loan as impaired and to place the loan on nonaccrual.
Gross loan and lease charge offs for the second quarter of 2008 were $4,591,000 and recoveries totaled $46,000 resulting in net charge offs of $4,545,000. This compares to net charge-offs of $69,000 for the second quarter of 2007. Gross charge offs for the six months ended June 30, 2008 were $4,776,000 and recoveries totaled $98,000 resulting in net charge offs of $4,678,000. This compares to net charge-offs of $85,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2007.
23
The Company continues to evaluate the loan and lease portfolio as part of a focused internal credit review process. As part of the ongoing evaluation, the Company has identified additional internal downgrades to certain credits subsequent to June 30, 2008. If these credits deteriorate further, the Company may have additional increases in nonperforming loans and it may require additional provisions for loan and lease losses.
Loans on which the accrual of interest has been discontinued are designated as nonaccrual loans. Accrual of interest on loans is discontinued either when reasonable doubt exists as to the full and timely collection of interest or principal, or when a loan becomes contractually past due by 90 days or more with respect to interest or principal (except that when management believes a loan is well secured and in the process of collection, interest accruals are continued on loans deemed by management to be fully collectible). When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, all interest previously accrued but not collected is reversed against current period interest income. Income on such loans is then recognized only to the extent that cash is received and where the future collection of principal is probable. Interest accruals are resumed on such loans when, in the judgment of management, the loans are estimated to be fully collectible as to both principal and interest.
Nonperforming assets at June 30, 2008, and December 31, 2007, are summarized as follows (in thousands):
| | | | | | | |
| | June 30, 2008 | | December 31, 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | | | |
Nonaccrual loans and leases | | $ | 22,580 | | $ | 1,608 | |
Loans and leases past due 90 days and accruing interest | | | — | | | 156 | |
Other real estate owned | | | 8,208 | | | 902 | |
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|
| |
|
| |
Total nonperforming assets | | $ | 30,788 | | $ | 2,666 | |
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|
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|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Nonaccrual loans and leases to total gross loans and leases | | | 3.09 | % | | 0.22 | % |
Nonperforming loans and leases to total gross loans and leases | | | 3.09 | % | | 0.24 | % |
Total nonperforming assets to total assets | | | 3.30 | % | | 0.28 | % |
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses
A summary of the allowance for loan and lease losses at June 30, 2008 and June 30, 2007 is as follows (in thousands):
| | | | | | | |
| | Six months ended June 30, | |
| | 2008 | | 2007 | |
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| |
| |
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Balance beginning of period | | $ | 10,755 | | $ | 8,831 | |
Provision for loan and lease losses | | | 7,600 | | | — | |
Net (charge-offs) recoveries | | | (4,678 | ) | | (85 | ) |
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|
| |
|
| |
Balance end of period | | $ | 13,677 | | $ | 8,746 | |
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|
| |
|
| |
| | | | | | | |
Allowance for loan and lease losses to total loans and leases | | | 1.87 | % | | 1.29 | % |
The allowance for loan and lease losses is established through a provision for loan and lease losses based on management’s evaluation of the risks inherent in the loan and lease portfolio. In determining levels of risk, management considers a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, asset classifications, economic trends, industry experience and trends, geographic concentrations, estimated collateral values, historical loan and lease loss experience, and the Company’s underwriting policies. The allowance for loan and lease losses is maintained at an amount management considers adequate to cover the probable losses in loans and leases receivable. While management uses the best information available to make these estimates, future adjustments to allowances may be necessary due to economic, operating, regulatory, and other conditions that may be beyond the Company’s control. The Company also engages a third party credit review consultant to analyze the Company’s loan and lease loss adequacy. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically reviews the Company’s allowance for loan and lease losses. Such agencies may require the Company to recognize additions to the allowance based on judgments different from those of management.
24
The allowance for loan and lease losses is comprised of two primary types of allowances:
| | | | |
| 1. | Formula Allowance |
| | | | |
| | Formula allowances are based upon loan and lease loss factors that reflect management’s estimate of probable losses in various segments or pools within the loan and lease portfolio. The loss factor for each segment or pool is multiplied by the portfolio segment (e.g. multifamily permanent mortgages) balance to derive the formula allowance amount. The loss factors are updated periodically by the Company to reflect current information that has an effect on the amount of loss inherent in each segment. |
| | | | |
| | The formula allowance is adjusted for qualitative factors that are based upon management’s evaluation of conditions that are not directly measured in the determination of the formula and specific allowances. The evaluation of inherent loss with respect to these conditions is subject to a higher degree of uncertainty because they are not identified with specific problem credits or historical performance of loan and lease portfolio segments. The conditions evaluated to determine the adjustment to the formula allowance at June 30, 2008 included the following, which existed at the balance sheet date: |
| | | | |
| | | · | General business and economic conditions effecting the Company’s key lending areas |
| | | | |
| | | · | Real estate values and market trends in Northern California |
| | | | |
| | | · | Loan volumes and concentrations, including trends in past due and nonperforming loans |
| | | | |
| | | · | Seasoning of the loan portfolio |
| | | | |
| | | · | Status of the current business cycle |
| | | | |
| | | · | Specific industry or market conditions within portfolio segments |
| | | | |
| | | · | Model imprecision |
| | | | |
| 2. | Specific Allowance |
| | | | |
| | Specific allowances are established in cases where management has identified significant conditions or circumstances related to an individually impaired credit. In other words, these allowances are specific to the loss inherent in a particular loan. The amount for a specific allowance is calculated in accordance with SFAS No. 114, “Accounting By Creditors For Impairment Of A Loan.” |
The $13,677,000 in formula and specific allowances reflects management’s estimate of the inherent loss in various pools or segments in the portfolio and individual loans and leases, and includes adjustments for general economic conditions, trends in the portfolio and changes in the mix of the portfolio.
Management anticipates continued growth in commercial lending and commercial real estate and to a lesser extent consumer and real estate mortgage lending. As a result, future provisions will be required and the ratio of the allowance for loan and lease losses to loans and leases outstanding may increase to reflect portfolio risk, increasing concentrations, loan type and changes in economic conditions.
Deposits
Total deposits increased $7,492,000, or 1.0%, to $744,231,000 at June 30, 2008 compared to $736,739,000 at December 31, 2007. Time certificate deposits and interest-bearing demand deposits increased $12,904,000, or 5.4%, and $1,365,000, or 0.9%, respectively from December 31, 2007. These increases were partially offset by decreases in noninterest-bearing demand deposits and savings and money market deposits of $3,585,000, or 2.14%, and $3,192,000, or 1.76%, respectively from December 31, 2007. During the first six months of 2008, the Company continued to experience a shift in deposits from noninterest-bearing demand to interest-bearing demand and time certificates.
| | | | | | | |
(in thousands) | | June 30, 2008 | | December 31, 2007 | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | | | |
Noninterest-bearing demand | | $ | 164,030 | | $ | 167,615 | |
Interest-bearing demand | | | 148,421 | | | 147,056 | |
Savings | | | 178,000 | | | 181,192 | |
Time certificates | | | 253,780 | | | 240,876 | |
| | | | | | | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Total deposits | | $ | 744,231 | | $ | 736,739 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
As a result of the deposit increase, the Company relied less on other borrowed funds which decreased $19,077,000, or 21.9%, to $68,115,000 at June 30, 2008 compared to $87,192,000 at December 31, 2007.
25
Liquidity
The objective of liquidity management is to ensure the continuous availability of funds to meet the demands of depositors and borrowers. Collection of principal and interest on loans and leases, the liquidations and maturities of investment securities, deposits with other banks, customer deposits and short term borrowings, when needed, are primary sources of funds that contribute to liquidity. Unused lines of credit from correspondent banks to provide federal funds of $22,695,000 as of June 30, 2008 were also available to provide liquidity. In addition, NVB is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) providing additional unused borrowing capacity of $61,537,000 secured by certain loans and investment securities as of June 30, 2008. The Company also has a line of credit with Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco (“FRB”) of $1,722,000 secured by first deeds of trust on eligible commercial real estate loans and leases. As of June 30, 2008, borrowings consisted of overnight advances of $68,115,000 with the FHLB and correspondent bank lines of credit, and $31,961,000 was outstanding in the form of subordinated debt issued by the Company.
The Company manages both assets and liabilities by monitoring asset and liability mixes, volumes, maturities, yields and rates in order to preserve liquidity and earnings stability. Total liquid assets (cash and due from banks, federal funds sold and available for sale investment securities) totaled $125,223,000 and $132,910,000 (or 13.4% and 14.0% of total assets) at June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.
Core deposits, defined as demand deposits, interest bearing demand deposits, regular savings, money market deposit accounts and time deposits of less than $100,000, continue to provide a relatively stable and low cost source of funds. Core deposits totaled $627,812,000 and $632,236,000 at June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.
In assessing liquidity, historical information such as seasonal loan demand, local economic cycles and the economy in general are considered along with current ratios, management goals and unique characteristics of the Company. Management believes the Company is in compliance with its policies relating to liquidity.
Interest Rate Sensitivity
The Company constantly monitors earning asset and deposit levels, developments and trends in interest rates, liquidity, capital adequacy and marketplace opportunities. Management responds to all of these to protect and possibly enhance net interest income while managing risks within acceptable levels as set forth in the Company’s policies. In addition, alternative business plans and contemplated transactions are also analyzed for their impact. This process, known as asset/liability management, is carried out by changing the maturities and relative proportions of the various types of loans, investments, deposits and other borrowings in the ways prescribed above.
The tool used to manage and analyze the interest rate sensitivity of a financial institution is known as a simulation model and is performed with specialized software built for this specific purpose for financial institutions. This model allows management to analyze three specific types of risks: market risk, mismatch risk, and basis risk.
Market Risk
Market risk results from the fact that the market values of assets or liabilities on which the interest rate is fixed will increase or decrease with changes in market interest rates. If the Company invests in a fixed-rate, long term security and then interest rates rise, the security is worth less than a comparable security just issued because the older security pays less interest than the newly issued security. If the security had to be sold before maturity, then the Company would incur a loss on the sale. Conversely, if interest rates fall after a fixed-rate security is purchased, its value increases, because it is paying at a higher rate than newly issued securities. The fixed rate liabilities of the Company, like certificates of deposit and fixed-rate borrowings, also change in value with changes in interest rates. As rates drop, they become more valuable to the depositor and hence more costly to the Company. As rates rise, they become more valuable to the Company. Therefore, while the value changes when rates move in either direction, the adverse impacts of market risk to the Company’s fixed-rate assets are due to rising rates and for the Company’s fixed-rate liabilities, they are due to falling rates. In general, the change in market value due to changes in interest rates is greater in financial instruments that have longer remaining maturities. Therefore, the exposure to market risk of assets is lessened by managing the amount of fixed-rate assets and by keeping maturities relatively short. These steps, however, must be balanced against the need for adequate interest income because variable-rate and shorter-term assets generally yield less interest than longer-term or fixed-rate assets.
Mismatch Risk
The second interest-related risk, mismatch risk, arises from the fact that when interest rates change, the changes do not occur equally in the rates of interest earned and paid because of differences in the contractual terms of the assets and liabilities held. A difference in the contractual terms, a mismatch, can cause adverse impacts on net interest income.
26
The Company has a certain portion of its loan portfolio tied to the national prime rate. If these rates are lowered because of general market conditions, e.g., the prime rate decreases in response to a rate decrease by the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee (“FOMC”), these loans will be repriced. If the Company were at the same time to have a large proportion of its deposits in long-term fixed-rate certificates, interest earned on loans would decline while interest paid on the certificates would remain at higher levels for a period of time until they mature. Therefore net interest income would decrease immediately. A decrease in net interest income could also occur with rising interest rates if the Company had a large portfolio of fixed-rate loans and securities that was funded by deposit accounts on which the rate is steadily rising.
This exposure to mismatch risk is managed by attempting to match the maturities and repricing opportunities of assets and liabilities. This may be done by varying the terms and conditions of the products that are offered to depositors and borrowers. For example, if many depositors want shorter-term certificates while most borrowers are requesting longer-term fixed rate loans, the Company will adjust the interest rates on the certificates and loans to try to match up demand for similar maturities. The Company can then partially fill in mismatches by purchasing securities or borrowing funds from the FHLB with the appropriate maturity or repricing characteristics.
Basis Risk
The third interest-related risk, basis risk, arises from the fact that interest rates rarely change in a parallel or equal manner. The interest rates associated with the various assets and liabilities differ in how often they change, the extent to which they change, and whether they change sooner or later than other interest rates. For example, while the repricing of a specific asset and a specific liability may occur at roughly the same time, the interest rate on the liability may rise one percent in response to rising market rates while the asset increases only one-half percent. While the Company would appear to be evenly matched with respect to mismatch risk, it would suffer a decrease in net interest income. This exposure to basis risk is the type of interest risk least able to be managed, but is also the least dramatic. Avoiding concentration in only a few types of assets or liabilities is the best means of increasing the chance that the average interest received and paid will move in tandem. The wider diversification means that many different rates, each with their own volatility characteristics, will come into play.
Net Interest Income and Net Economic Value Simulations
To quantify the extent of all of these risks both in its current position and in transactions it might make in the future, the Company uses computer modeling to simulate the impact of different interest rate scenarios on net interest income and on net economic value. Net economic value or the market value of portfolio equity is defined as the difference between the market value of financial assets and liabilities. These hypothetical scenarios include both sudden and gradual interest rate changes, and interest rate changes in both directions. This modeling is the primary means the Company uses for interest rate risk management decisions.
The hypothetical impact of sudden interest rate shocks applied to the Company’s asset and liability balances are modeled quarterly. The results of this modeling indicate how much of the Company’s net interest income and net economic value are “at risk” (deviation from the base level) from various sudden rate changes. This exercise is valuable in identifying risk exposures. The results for the Company’s most recent simulation analysis indicate that the Company’s net interest income at risk over a one-year period and net economic value at risk from 2% shocks are within normal expectations for sudden changes and do not materially differ from those of December 31, 2007.
For this simulation analysis, the Company has made certain assumptions about the duration of its non-maturity deposits that are important to determining net economic value at risk.
Capital Resources
The Company maintains capital to support future growth and dividend payouts while trying to effectively manage the capital on hand. From the depositor standpoint, a greater amount of capital on hand relative to total assets is generally viewed as positive. At the same time, from the standpoint of the shareholder, a greater amount of capital on hand may not be viewed as positive because it limits the Company’s ability to earn a high rate of return on stockholders’ equity (ROE). Stockholders’ equity decreased to $78,802,000 as of June 30, 2008, as compared to $81,471,000 at December 31, 2007. The decrease was due to a net loss of $1,229,000, cash dividends paid out in the amount of $1,490,000 and an increase in unrealized loss on available for sale securities of $711,000, partially offset by the stock option exercises of $761,000. Under current regulations, management believes that the Company meets all capital adequacy requirements and North Valley Bank was considered well capitalized at June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007.
27
The Company’s and North Valley Bank’s capital amounts and risk-based capital ratios are presented below (in thousands).
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | To be Well Capitalized | |
| | | | For Capital Adequacy | | Under Prompt Corrective | |
| | Actual | | Purposes | | Action Provisions | |
| |
| |
| | | | | | Minimum | | Minimum | | Minimum | | Minimum | |
| | Amount | | Ratio | | Amount | | Ratio | | Amount | | Ratio | |
| |
| |
| | | |
Company | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
As of June 30, 2008 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total capital (to risk weighted assets) | | $ | 106,639 | | | | 12.12 | % | | $ | 70,389 | | | | 8.00 | % | | | N/A | | | | N/A | | |
Tier 1 capital (to risk weighted assets) | | $ | 91,536 | | | | 10.41 | % | | $ | 35,172 | | | | 4.00 | % | | | N/A | | | | N/A | | |
Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | | $ | 91,536 | | | | 9.96 | % | | $ | 36,761 | | | | 4.00 | % | | | N/A | | | | N/A | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
As of December 31, 2007 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total capital (to risk weighted assets) | | $ | 108,098 | | | | 12.00 | % | | $ | 72,065 | | | | 8.00 | % | | | N/A | | | | N/A | | |
Tier 1 capital (to risk weighted assets) | | $ | 93,954 | | | | 10.43 | % | | $ | 36,032 | | | | 4.00 | % | | | N/A | | | | N/A | | |
Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | | $ | 93,954 | | | | 10.29 | % | | $ | 36,522 | | | | 4.00 | % | | | N/A | | | | N/A | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
North Valley Bank | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
As of June 30, 2008 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total capital (to risk weighted assets) | | $ | 106,811 | | | | 12.15 | % | | $ | 70,328 | | | | 8.00 | % | | $ | 87,910 | | | | 10.00 | % | |
Tier 1 capital (to risk weighted assets) | | $ | 95,788 | | | | 10.89 | % | | $ | 35,184 | | | | 4.00 | % | | $ | 52,776 | | | | 6.00 | % | |
Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | | $ | 95,788 | | | | 10.44 | % | | $ | 36,700 | | | | 4.00 | % | | $ | 45,875 | | | | 5.00 | % | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
As of December 31, 2007 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Total capital (to risk weighted assets) | | $ | 105,715 | | | | 11.73 | % | | $ | 72,099 | | | | 8.00 | % | | $ | 90,124 | | | | 10.00 | % | |
Tier 1 capital (to risk weighted assets) | | $ | 94,960 | | | | 10.54 | % | | $ | 36,038 | | | | 4.00 | % | | $ | 54,057 | | | | 6.00 | % | |
Tier 1 capital (to average assets) | | $ | 94,960 | | | | 10.43 | % | | $ | 36,418 | | | | 4.00 | % | | $ | 45,523 | | | | 5.00 | % | |
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
In management’s opinion there has not been a material change in the Company’s market risk profile for the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared to December 31, 2007. Please see discussion under the caption “Interest Rate Sensitivity” on page 26.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Disclosure controls and procedures are designed with the objective of ensuring that information required to be disclosed in reports filed by the Company under the Exchange Act, such as this Quarterly Report, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Disclosure controls and procedures are also designed with the objective of ensuring that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of June 30, 2008. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. There was no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended June 30, 2008 that has materially affected or is reasonable likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
28
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
There are no material legal proceedings pending against the Company or against any of its property. The Company, because of the nature of its business, is generally subject to various legal actions, threatened or filed, which involve ordinary, routine litigation incidental to its business. Some of the pending cases seek punitive damages in addition to other relief. Although the amount of the ultimate exposure, if any, cannot be determined at this time, the Company does not expect that the final outcome of threatened or filed suits will have a materially adverse effect on its consolidated financial position.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes to the risk factors as previously disclosed by the Company in its response to Item 1A of Part I of Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, other than with respect to the risk factor identified asReal Estate Values.A decline in residential real estate values in the State of California, and more specifically in the Company’s market areas, has occurred and is continuing into 2008. Further declines in residential real estate values would increase the likelihood of a negative impact on general economic conditions in the Company’s market areas, and on the Company. This could result in increased credit losses and/or reduced opportunities for future growth, thereby adversely affecting the Company’s results of operations and financial condition and the market price of the Company’s common stock.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
None
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
Not applicable
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
The Annual Meeting of Shareholders of North Valley Bancorp was held on Thursday, May 22, 2008. Shareholders of the Company approved the following proposals:
| |
1. | To elect the following nine (9) nominees as Director of the Company for a one year term: |
| |
| Michael J. Cushman |
| William W. Cox |
| Royce L. Friesen |
| Dante W. Ghidinelli |
| Kevin D. Hartwick |
| Roger B. Kohlmeier |
| Martin A. Mariani |
| Dolores M. Vellutini |
| J.M. (Mike) Wells, Jr. |
| |
2. | To ratify and approve the North Valley Bancorp 2008 Stock Incentive Plan |
| |
3. | To ratify the appointment of Perry-Smith LLP as Independent Auditor for the Company for 2008. |
29
The voting results at the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are presented below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Proposal 1: | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | |
Nominees | | For | | | | Withheld | | | |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
Michael J. Cushman | | | 5,737,998 | | | | | | 348,375 | | | | |
William W. Cox | | | 5,652,809 | | | | | | 433,564 | | | | |
Royce L. Friesen | | | 5,660,738 | | | | | | 425,635 | | | | |
Dante W. Ghidinelli | | | 5,830,366 | | | | | | 256,007 | | | | |
Kevin D. Hartwick | | | 5,838,066 | | | | | | 248,307 | | | | |
Roger B. Kohlmeier | | | 5,832,237 | | | | | | 254,136 | | | | |
Martin A. Mariani | | | 5,665,738 | | | | | | 420,635 | | | | |
Doloroes M. Vellutini | | | 5,830,440 | | | | | | 255,933 | | | | |
J. M. (“Mike”) Wells, Jr. | | | 5,632,672 | | | | | | 453,701 | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Proposal 2: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | For | | Against | | Abstain | | Non-vote | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
North Valley Bancorp 2008 Stock Incentive Plan | | | 2,576,499 | | | 1,770,028 | | | 123,723 | | | 1,616,123 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Proposal 3: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | For | | Against | | Abstain | | | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | |
Perry-Smith LLP | | | 5,931,872 | | | 90,924 | | | 63,577 | | | | |
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
None
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
| | |
| 31 | Rule 13a-14(a) / 15d-14(a) Certifications |
| | |
| 32 | Section 1350 Certifications |
30
SIGNATURES
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.
| |
NORTH VALLEY BANCORP |
(Registrant) |
|
Date | August 11, 2008 |
| |
By: |
|
/s/ Michael J. Cushman |
|
Michael J. Cushman |
President & Chief Executive Officer |
(Principal Executive Officer) |
|
/s/ Kevin R. Watson |
|
Kevin R. Watson |
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer |
(Principal Financial Officer & Principal Accounting Officer) |
31