5. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
U.S. GAAP requires disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not recognized on the balance sheet, for which it is practical to estimate that value. The estimated fair value amounts have been determined by the Company using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. The use of assumptions and various valuation techniques, as well as the absence of secondary markets for certain financial instruments, will likely reduce the comparability of fair value disclosures between financial institutions. In some cases, book value is a reasonable estimate of fair value due to the relatively short period of time between origination of the instrument and its expected realization.
The following tables summarize the book value and estimated fair value of financial instruments for the periods indicated:
|
|
|
|
|
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Using
|
|
|
|
|
March 31, 2013
(in thousands)
|
|
Carrying
Amount
|
|
|
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
|
|
|
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
|
|
|
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
|
|
|
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
|
|
Assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents
|
|
$ |
43,533 |
|
|
$ |
43,533 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
43,533 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Securities Available-for-Sale:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Government Agency & Government-Sponsored Entities
|
|
|
26,692 |
|
|
|
21,612 |
|
|
|
5,080 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
26,692 |
|
Obligations of States and Political Subdivisions
|
|
|
5,643 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
5,643 |
|
|
|
5,643 |
|
Mortgage Backed Securities
|
|
|
432,285 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
432,285 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
432,285 |
|
Corporate Securities
|
|
|
50,128 |
|
|
|
9,373 |
|
|
|
40,755 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
50,128 |
|
Other
|
|
|
825 |
|
|
|
515 |
|
|
|
310 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
825 |
|
Total Investment Securities Available-for-Sale
|
|
|
515,573 |
|
|
|
31,500 |
|
|
|
478,430 |
|
|
|
5,643 |
|
|
|
515,573 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Securities Held-to-Maturity:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Obligations of States and Political Subdivisions
|
|
|
65,165 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
59,757 |
|
|
|
7,282 |
|
|
|
67,039 |
|
Mortgage Backed Securities
|
|
|
341 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
349 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
349 |
|
Other
|
|
|
2,202 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2,202 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2,202 |
|
Total Investment Securities Held-to-Maturity
|
|
|
67,708 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
62,308 |
|
|
|
7,282 |
|
|
|
69,590 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FHLB Stock
|
|
|
7,368 |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
Loans, Net of Deferred Loan Fees & Allowance:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commercial Real Estate
|
|
|
354,222 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
358,684 |
|
|
|
358,684 |
|
Agricultural Real Estate
|
|
|
315,028 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
321,212 |
|
|
|
321,212 |
|
Real Estate Construction
|
|
|
31,712 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
32,070 |
|
|
|
32,070 |
|
Residential 1st Mortgages
|
|
|
144,159 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
149,062 |
|
|
|
149,062 |
|
Home Equity Lines and Loans
|
|
|
36,932 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
39,477 |
|
|
|
39,477 |
|
Agricultural
|
|
|
172,313 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
171,562 |
|
|
|
171,562 |
|
Commercial
|
|
|
134,149 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
133,299 |
|
|
|
133,299 |
|
Consumer & Other
|
|
|
4,735 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
4,769 |
|
|
|
4,769 |
|
Unallocated Allowance
|
|
|
(810 |
) |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(810 |
) |
|
|
(810 |
) |
Total Loans, Net of Deferred Loan Fees & Allowance
|
|
|
1,192,440 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1,209,325 |
|
|
|
1,209,325 |
|
Accrued Interest Receivable
|
|
|
6,661 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
6,661 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
6,661 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deposits:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Demand
|
|
|
417,341 |
|
|
|
417,341 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
417,341 |
|
Interest Bearing Transaction
|
|
|
257,171 |
|
|
|
257,171 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
257,171 |
|
Savings and Money Market
|
|
|
590,323 |
|
|
|
590,323 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
590,323 |
|
Time
|
|
|
450,331 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
451,084 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
451,084 |
|
Total Deposits
|
|
|
1,715,166 |
|
|
|
1,264,835 |
|
|
|
451,084 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1,715,919 |
|
FHLB Advances & Securities Sold Under Agreement to Repurchase
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
Subordinated Debentures
|
|
|
10,310 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
5,758 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
5,758 |
|
Accrued Interest Payable
|
|
|
427 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
427 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
427 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Using
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2012
(in thousands)
|
|
Carrying
Amount
|
|
|
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
|
|
|
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
|
|
|
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
|
|
|
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
|
|
Assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents
|
|
$ |
129,426 |
|
|
$ |
129,426 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
129,426 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Securities Available-for-Sale:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Government Agency & Government-Sponsored Entities
|
|
|
26,823 |
|
|
|
21,731 |
|
|
|
5,092 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
26,823 |
|
Obligations of States and Political Subdivisions
|
|
|
5,665 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
5,665 |
|
|
|
5,665 |
|
Mortgage Backed Securities
|
|
|
352,772 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
352,772 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
352,772 |
|
Corporate Securities
|
|
|
22,558 |
|
|
|
4,020 |
|
|
|
18,538 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
22,558 |
|
Other
|
|
|
10,173 |
|
|
|
9,863 |
|
|
|
310 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
10,173 |
|
Total Investment Securities Available-for-Sale
|
|
|
417,991 |
|
|
|
35,614 |
|
|
|
376,712 |
|
|
|
5,665 |
|
|
|
417,991 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Securities Held-to-Maturity:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Obligations of States and Political Subdivisions
|
|
|
65,694 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
60,177 |
|
|
|
7,810 |
|
|
|
67,987 |
|
Mortgage Backed Securities
|
|
|
484 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
496 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
496 |
|
Other
|
|
|
2,214 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2,214 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2,214 |
|
Total Investment Securities Held-to-Maturity
|
|
|
68,392 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
62,887 |
|
|
|
7,810 |
|
|
|
70,697 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FHLB Stock
|
|
|
7,368 |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
Loans, Net of Deferred Loan Fees & Allowance:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commercial Real Estate
|
|
|
344,084 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
349,524 |
|
|
|
349,524 |
|
Agricultural Real Estate
|
|
|
309,115 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
316,302 |
|
|
|
316,302 |
|
Real Estate Construction
|
|
|
31,694 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
32,024 |
|
|
|
32,024 |
|
Residential 1st Mortgages
|
|
|
139,038 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
144,203 |
|
|
|
144,203 |
|
Home Equity Lines and Loans
|
|
|
38,807 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
41,419 |
|
|
|
41,419 |
|
Agricultural
|
|
|
210,595 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
209,578 |
|
|
|
209,578 |
|
Commercial
|
|
|
135,330 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
134,647 |
|
|
|
134,647 |
|
Consumer & Other
|
|
|
4,876 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
4,847 |
|
|
|
4,847 |
|
Unallocated Allowance
|
|
|
(854 |
) |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(854 |
) |
|
|
(854 |
) |
Total Loans, Net of Deferred Loan Fees & Allowance
|
|
|
1,212,685 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1,231,690 |
|
|
|
1,231,690 |
|
Accrued Interest Receivable
|
|
|
6,389 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
6,389 |
|
|
|
6,389 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deposits:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Demand
|
|
|
462,251 |
|
|
|
462,251 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
462,251 |
|
Interest Bearing Transaction
|
|
|
259,141 |
|
|
|
259,141 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
259,141 |
|
Savings and Money Market
|
|
|
541,526 |
|
|
|
541,526 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
541,526 |
|
Time
|
|
|
459,108 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
459,993 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
459,993 |
|
Total Deposits
|
|
|
1,722,026 |
|
|
|
1,262,918 |
|
|
|
459,993 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1,722,911 |
|
Subordinated Debentures
|
|
|
10,310 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
5,750 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
5,750 |
|
Accrued Interest Payable
|
|
|
498 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
498 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
498 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Using
|
|
|
|
|
March 31, 2012
(in thousands)
|
|
Carrying
Amount
|
|
|
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
|
|
|
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
|
|
|
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
|
|
|
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
|
|
Assets:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Cash Equivalents
|
|
$ |
85,705 |
|
|
$ |
85,705 |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
85,705 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Securities Available-for-Sale:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Government Agency & Government-Sponsored Entities
|
|
|
67,342 |
|
|
|
20,970 |
|
|
|
46,372 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
67,342 |
|
Obligations of States and Political Subdivisions
|
|
|
5,753 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
5,753 |
|
|
|
5,753 |
|
Mortgage Backed Securities
|
|
|
448,311 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
448,311 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
448,311 |
|
Corporate Securities
|
|
|
344 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
344 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
344 |
|
Other
|
|
|
10,067 |
|
|
|
9,657 |
|
|
|
410 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
10,067 |
|
Total Investment Securities Available-for-Sale
|
|
|
531,817 |
|
|
|
30,627 |
|
|
|
495,437 |
|
|
|
5,753 |
|
|
|
531,817 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Securities Held-to-Maturity:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Obligations of States and Political Subdivisions
|
|
|
63,174 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
57,327 |
|
|
|
8,412 |
|
|
|
65,739 |
|
Mortgage Backed Securities
|
|
|
1,003 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1,040 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1,040 |
|
Other
|
|
|
2,239 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2,239 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2,239 |
|
Total Investment Securities Held-to-Maturity
|
|
|
66,416 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
60,606 |
|
|
|
8,412 |
|
|
|
69,018 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FHLB Stock
|
|
|
7,035 |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
Loans, Net of Deferred Loan Fees & Allowance:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commercial Real Estate
|
|
|
316,718 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
326,891 |
|
|
|
326,891 |
|
Agricultural Real Estate
|
|
|
274,856 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
283,685 |
|
|
|
283,685 |
|
Real Estate Construction
|
|
|
29,835 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
30,029 |
|
|
|
30,029 |
|
Residential 1st Mortgages
|
|
|
110,365 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
114,402 |
|
|
|
114,402 |
|
Home Equity Lines and Loans
|
|
|
45,542 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
48,863 |
|
|
|
48,863 |
|
Agricultural
|
|
|
191,277 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
192,031 |
|
|
|
192,031 |
|
Commercial
|
|
|
151,429 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
151,175 |
|
|
|
151,175 |
|
Consumer & Other
|
|
|
6,439 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
6,560 |
|
|
|
6,560 |
|
Unallocated Allowance
|
|
|
(1,120 |
) |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(1,120 |
) |
|
|
(1,120 |
) |
Total Loans, Net of Deferred Loan Fees & Allowance
|
|
|
1,125,341 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1,152,516 |
|
|
|
1,152,516 |
|
Accrued Interest Receivable
|
|
|
6,463 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
6,463 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
6,463 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deposits:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Demand
|
|
|
371,760 |
|
|
|
371,760 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
371,760 |
|
Interest Bearing Transaction
|
|
|
230,323 |
|
|
|
230,323 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
230,323 |
|
Savings and Money Market
|
|
|
528,527 |
|
|
|
528,527 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
528,527 |
|
Time
|
|
|
513,432 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
514,503 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
514,503 |
|
Total Deposits
|
|
|
1,644,042 |
|
|
|
1,130,610 |
|
|
|
514,503 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
1,645,113 |
|
FHLB Advances & Securities Sold Under Agreement to Repurchase
|
|
|
60,514 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
62,643 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
62,643 |
|
Subordinated Debentures
|
|
|
10,310 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
5,895 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
5,895 |
|
Accrued Interest Payable
|
|
|
842 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
842 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
842 |
|
Fair value estimates presented herein are based on pertinent information available to management as of March 31, 2013, December 31, 2012, and March 31, 2012. Although management is not aware of any factors that would significantly affect the estimated fair value amounts, such amounts have not been comprehensively revalued for purpose of these financial statements since that date, and; therefore, current estimates of fair value may differ significantly from the amounts presented above. The methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument listed in the table above are explained below.
Cash and Cash Equivalents - The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for cash and due from banks, interest bearing deposits with banks, federal funds sold, and securities purchased under agreements to resell are a reasonable estimate of fair value. All cash and cash equivalents are classified as Level 1.
Investment Securities - Fair values for investment securities consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond's terms and conditions, among other things. Based on the available market information the classification level could be 1, 2, or 3.
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock - It is not practical to determine the fair value of FHLB stock due to restrictions placed on its transferability.
Loans, Net of Deferred Loan Fees & Allowance - Fair values of loans are estimated as follows: For variable rate loans that reprice frequently and with no significant change in credit risk, fair values are based on carrying values resulting in a Level 3 classification. Fair values for other loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality resulting in a Level 3 classification. Impaired loans are valued at the lower of cost or fair value as described previously. The methods utilized to estimate the fair value of loans do not necessarily represent an exit price.
Deposit Liabilities - The fair values disclosed for demand deposits (e.g., interest and non-interest checking, passbook savings, and certain types of money market accounts) are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e., their carrying amount) resulting in a Level 1 classification. Fair values for fixed-maturity certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flows calculation that applies interest rates currently being offered on certificates to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits resulting in a Level 2 classification.
FHLB Advances & Securities Sold Under Agreement to Repurchase - The fair value of federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings is approximated by the book value resulting in a Level 2 classification. The fair value for Federal Home Loan Bank advances is determined using discounted future cash flows resulting in a Level 2 classification.
Subordinated Debentures - The fair values of the Company’s Subordinated Debentures are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on the current borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements resulting in a Level 2 classification.
Accrued Interest Receivable and Payable - The carrying amount of accrued interest receivable and payable approximates their fair value resulting in a Level 2 classification.
6. Dividends and Basic Earnings Per Common Share
Farmers & Merchants Bancorp common stock is not traded on any exchange. The shares are primarily held by local residents and are not actively traded. No cash dividends were declared during the first quarter of 2013 or 2012.
Basic earnings per common share amounts are computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. The following table calculates the basic earnings per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012.
(net income in thousands)
|
|
2013
|
|
|
2012
|
|
Net Income
|
|
$ |
6,251 |
|
|
$ |
6,190 |
|
Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding
|
|
|
777,882 |
|
|
|
779,296 |
|
Basic Earnings Per Common Share Amount
|
|
$ |
8.04 |
|
|
$ |
7.94 |
|
7. Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2013-02, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220)—Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The objective of this Update is to improve the reporting of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The amendments in this Update seek to attain that objective by requiring an entity to report the effect of significant reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income on the respective line items in net income if the amount being reclassified is required under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) to be reclassified in its entirety to net income. For other amounts that are not required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income in the same reporting period, an entity is required to cross-reference other disclosures required under U.S. GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. The new guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operation, cash flows, or disclosure.
The following is management’s discussion and analysis of the major factors that influenced our financial performance for the three months ended March 31, 2013. This analysis should be read in conjunction with our 2012 Annual Report to Shareholders on Form 10-K, and with the unaudited financial statements and notes as set forth in this report.
Forward–Looking Statements
This Form 10-Q contains various forward-looking statements, usually containing the words “estimate,” “project,” “expect,” “objective,” “goal,” or similar expressions and includes assumptions concerning Farmers & Merchants Bancorp’s (together with its subsidiaries, the “Company” or “we”) operations, future results, and prospects. These forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties. In connection with the “safe-harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the Company provides the following cautionary statement identifying important factors which could cause the actual results of events to differ materially from those set forth in or implied by the forward-looking statements and related assumptions.
Such factors include the following: (1) the current economic downturn and turmoil in financial markets and the response of federal and state regulators thereto; (2) the effect of changing regional and national economic conditions including the housing market in the Central Valley of California; (3) significant changes in interest rates and prepayment speeds; (4) credit risks of lending and investment activities; (5) changes in federal and state banking laws or regulations; (6) competitive pressure in the banking industry; (7) changes in governmental fiscal or monetary policies; (8) uncertainty regarding the economic outlook resulting from the continuing war on terrorism, as well as actions taken or to be taken by the U.S. or other governments as a result of further acts or threats of terrorism; and (9) other factors discussed in Item 1A. Risk Factors located in the Company’s 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after the date on which they are made.
Introduction
Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, or the Company, is a bank holding company formed March 10, 1999. Its subsidiary, Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California, or the Bank, is a California state-chartered bank formed in 1916. The Bank serves the northern Central Valley of California through twenty-two banking offices and two stand-alone ATM’s. The service area includes Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced Counties with branches in Sacramento, Elk Grove, Galt, Lodi, Stockton, Linden, Modesto, Turlock, Hilmar, and Merced. Substantially all of the Company’s business activities are conducted within its market area.
As a bank holding company, the Company is subject to regulation and examination by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (“FRB”). As a California, state-chartered, non-fed member bank, the Bank is subject to regulation and examination by the California Department of Financial Institutions (“DFI”) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”).
Overview
The Company’s primary service area encompasses the mid Central Valley of California, a region that can be significantly impacted by the seasonal needs of the agricultural industry. Accordingly, discussion of the Company’s Financial Condition and Results of Operations is influenced by the seasonal banking needs of its agricultural customers (e.g., during the spring and summer customers draw down their deposit balances and increase loan borrowing to fund the purchase of equipment and planting of crops. Correspondingly, deposit balances are replenished and loans repaid in fall and winter as crops are harvested and sold).
For the three months ended March 31, 2013, Farmers & Merchants Bancorp reported net income of $6,251,000, earnings per share of $8.04 and return on average assets of 1.28%. Return on average shareholders’ equity was 12.04% for the three months ended March 31, 2013.
For the three months ended March 31, 2012, Farmers & Merchants Bancorp reported net income of $6,190,000, earnings per share of $7.94 and return on average assets of 1.29%. Return on average shareholders’ equity was 12.80% for the three months ended March 31, 2012.
The primary reasons for the Company’s improved earnings performance in the first quarter of 2013 as compared to the same period last year were: (1) a $220,000 decrease in the loan loss provision; (2) a $198,000 decrease in legal fee expenses; and (3) a $735,000 increase in net gain on investment securities. These positive impacts were partially offset by: (1) a $109,000 decrease in service charges on deposit accounts; (2) a $124,000 increase in salaries and employee benefits; and (3) a $787,000 decrease in net interest income.
The following is a summary of the financial results for the three-month period ended March 31, 2013 compared to March 31, 2012.
·
|
Net income increased 1.0% to $6,251,000 from $6,190,000.
|
·
|
Earnings per share increased 1.3% to $8.04 from $7.94.
|
·
|
Total assets increased 1.3% to $1.97 billion.
|
·
|
Total loans increased 5.9% to $1.23 billion.
|
·
|
Total deposits increased 4.3% to $1.72 billion.
|
Results of Operations
Net Interest Income / Net Interest Margin
The tables on the following pages reflect the Company's average balance sheets and volume and rate analysis for the three month periods ended March 31, 2013 and 2012.
The average yields on earning assets and average rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities have been computed on an annualized basis for purposes of comparability with full year data. Average balance amounts for assets and liabilities are the computed average of daily balances.
Net interest income is the amount by which the interest and fees on loans and other interest earning assets exceed the interest paid on interest bearing sources of funds. For the purpose of analysis, the interest earned on tax-exempt investments and municipal loans is adjusted to an amount comparable to interest subject to normal income taxes. This adjustment is referred to as “taxable equivalent” and is noted wherever applicable.
The Volume and Rate Analysis of Net Interest Income summarizes the changes in interest income and interest expense based on changes in average asset and liability balances (volume) and changes in average rates (rate). For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided with respect to changes attributable to: (1) changes in volume (change in volume multiplied by initial rate); (2) changes in rate (change in rate multiplied by initial volume); and (3) changes in rate/volume (allocated in proportion to the respective volume and rate components).
The Company’s earning assets and rate sensitive liabilities are subject to repricing at different times, which exposes the Company to income fluctuations when interest rates change. In order to minimize income fluctuations, the Company attempts to match asset and liability maturities. However, some maturity mismatch is inherent in the asset and liability mix. See “Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk – Interest Rate Risk.”
Farmers & Merchants Bancorp
Year-to-Date Average Balances and Interest Rates
(Interest and Rates on a Taxable Equivalent Basis)
(in thousands)
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31,
|
|
|
Three Months Ended March 31,
|
|
|
|
2013
|
|
|
2012
|
|
Assets
|
|
Balance
|
|
|
Interest
|
|
|
Annualized Yield/Rate
|
|
|
Balance
|
|
|
Interest
|
|
|
Annualized Yield/Rate
|
|
Interest Bearing Deposits With Banks
|
|
$ |
70,206 |
|
|
$ |
44 |
|
|
|
0.25 |
% |
|
$ |
83,877 |
|
|
$ |
53 |
|
|
|
0.25 |
% |
Investment Securities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. Agencies
|
|
|
29,835 |
|
|
|
71 |
|
|
|
0.95 |
% |
|
|
75,489 |
|
|
|
202 |
|
|
|
1.07 |
% |
Municipals - Non-Taxable
|
|
|
71,114 |
|
|
|
1,011 |
|
|
|
5.69 |
% |
|
|
65,379 |
|
|
|
962 |
|
|
|
5.89 |
% |
Mortgage Backed Securities
|
|
|
366,810 |
|
|
|
1,891 |
|
|
|
2.06 |
% |
|
|
406,869 |
|
|
|
2,598 |
|
|
|
2.55 |
% |
Other
|
|
|
48,637 |
|
|
|
144 |
|
|
|
1.18 |
% |
|
|
3,094 |
|
|
|
8 |
|
|
|
1.03 |
% |
Total Investment Securities
|
|
|
516,396 |
|
|
|
3,117 |
|
|
|
2.41 |
% |
|
|
550,831 |
|
|
|
3,770 |
|
|
|
2.74 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loans
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Real Estate
|
|
|
840,253 |
|
|
|
11,154 |
|
|
|
5.38 |
% |
|
|
729,282 |
|
|
|
10,992 |
|
|
|
6.06 |
% |
Home Equity Line and Loans
|
|
|
40,556 |
|
|
|
455 |
|
|
|
4.55 |
% |
|
|
49,947 |
|
|
|
707 |
|
|
|
5.69 |
% |
Agricultural
|
|
|
187,871 |
|
|
|
1,969 |
|
|
|
4.25 |
% |
|
|
201,036 |
|
|
|
2,614 |
|
|
|
5.23 |
% |
Commercial
|
|
|
144,532 |
|
|
|
1,777 |
|
|
|
4.99 |
% |
|
|
157,631 |
|
|
|
2,041 |
|
|
|
5.21 |
% |
Consumer
|
|
|
4,733 |
|
|
|
87 |
|
|
|
7.45 |
% |
|
|
6,647 |
|
|
|
118 |
|
|
|
7.14 |
% |
Other
|
|
|
232 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
5.24 |
% |
|
|
239 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
5.05 |
% |
Total Loans
|
|
|
1,218,177 |
|
|
|
15,445 |
|
|
|
5.14 |
% |
|
|
1,144,782 |
|
|
|
16,475 |
|
|
|
5.79 |
% |
Total Earning Assets
|
|
|
1,804,779 |
|
|
$ |
18,606 |
|
|
|
4.18 |
% |
|
|
1,779,490 |
|
|
$ |
20,298 |
|
|
|
4.59 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities Available-for-Sale
|
|
|
10,623 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,095 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allowance for Loan Losses
|
|
|
(34,253 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(32,859 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and Due From Banks
|
|
|
33,086 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
32,733 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Other Assets
|
|
|
146,547 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
138,124 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets
|
|
$ |
1,960,782 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1,926,583 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities & Shareholders' Equity
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest Bearing Deposits
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest Bearing DDA
|
|
$ |
253,157 |
|
|
$ |
29 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
% |
|
$ |
225,974 |
|
|
$ |
46 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
% |
Savings and Money Market
|
|
|
577,270 |
|
|
|
244 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
% |
|
|
524,375 |
|
|
|
351 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
% |
Time Deposits
|
|
|
455,171 |
|
|
|
410 |
|
|
|
0.37 |
% |
|
|
511,980 |
|
|
|
660 |
|
|
|
0.52 |
% |
Total Interest Bearing Deposits
|
|
|
1,285,598 |
|
|
|
683 |
|
|
|
0.22 |
% |
|
|
1,262,329 |
|
|
|
1,057 |
|
|
|
0.34 |
% |
Securities Sold Under Agreement to Repurchase
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
0.00 |
% |
|
|
60,000 |
|
|
|
536 |
|
|
|
3.59 |
% |
Other Borrowed Funds
|
|
|
87 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
0.00 |
% |
|
|
524 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
5.37 |
% |
Subordinated Debentures
|
|
|
10,310 |
|
|
|
81 |
|
|
|
3.19 |
% |
|
|
10,310 |
|
|
|
88 |
|
|
|
3.43 |
% |
Total Interest Bearing Liabilities
|
|
|
1,295,995 |
|
|
$ |
764 |
|
|
|
0.24 |
% |
|
|
1,333,163 |
|
|
$ |
1,688 |
|
|
|
0.51 |
% |
Interest Rate Spread
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3.94 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.08 |
% |
Demand Deposits (Non-Interest Bearing)
|
|
|
421,845 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
368,286 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Other Liabilities
|
|
|
35,220 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
31,712 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities
|
|
|
1,753,060 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,733,161 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shareholders' Equity
|
|
|
207,722 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
193,422 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities & Shareholders' Equity
|
|
$ |
1,960,782 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1,926,583 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Impact of Non-Interest Bearing Deposits and Other Liabilities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.07 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.13 |
% |
Net Interest Income and Margin on Total Earning Assets
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17,842 |
|
|
|
4.01 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
18,610 |
|
|
|
4.21 |
% |
Tax Equivalent Adjustment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(351 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(332 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Net Interest Income
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
17,491 |
|
|
|
3.93 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
18,278 |
|
|
|
4.13 |
% |
Notes: Yields on municipal securities have been calculated on a fully taxable equivalent basis. Loan interest income includes fee income and unearned discount in the amount of $774,000 and $684,000 for the quarters ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Yields on securities available-for-sale are based on historical cost.
Farmers & Merchants Bancorp
Volume and Rate Analysis of Net Interest Revenue
(Interest and Rates on a Taxable Equivalent Basis)
(in thousands)
|
|
Three Months Ended
|
|
|
|
Mar. 31, 2013 compared to Mar. 31, 2012
|
|
Interest Earning Assets
|
|
Volume
|
|
|
Rate
|
|
|
Net Chg.
|
|
Interest Bearing Deposits With Banks
|
|
$ |
(9 |
) |
|
$ |
- |
|
|
$ |
(9 |
) |
Investment Securities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. Agencies
|
|
|
(111 |
) |
|
|
(20 |
) |
|
|
(131 |
) |
Municipals - Non-Taxable
|
|
|
82 |
|
|
|
(33 |
) |
|
|
49 |
|
Mortgage Backed Securities
|
|
|
(240 |
) |
|
|
(467 |
) |
|
|
(707 |
) |
Other
|
|
|
135 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
136 |
|
Total Investment Securities
|
|
|
(134 |
) |
|
|
(519 |
) |
|
|
(653 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loans
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Real Estate
|
|
|
1,520 |
|
|
|
(1,358 |
) |
|
|
162 |
|
Home Equity
|
|
|
(122 |
) |
|
|
(130 |
) |
|
|
(252 |
) |
Agricultural
|
|
|
(167 |
) |
|
|
(478 |
) |
|
|
(645 |
) |
Commercial
|
|
|
(175 |
) |
|
|
(89 |
) |
|
|
(264 |
) |
Consumer
|
|
|
(35 |
) |
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
(31 |
) |
Total Loans
|
|
|
1,021 |
|
|
|
(2,051 |
) |
|
|
(1,030 |
) |
Total Earning Assets
|
|
|
878 |
|
|
|
(2,570 |
) |
|
|
(1,692 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest Bearing Liabilities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest Bearing Deposits
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Transaction
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
(22 |
) |
|
|
(17 |
) |
Savings and Money Market
|
|
|
32 |
|
|
|
(139 |
) |
|
|
(107 |
) |
Time Deposits
|
|
|
(68 |
) |
|
|
(182 |
) |
|
|
(250 |
) |
Total Interest Bearing Deposits
|
|
|
(31 |
) |
|
|
(343 |
) |
|
|
(374 |
) |
Securities Sold Under Agreement to Repurchase
|
|
|
(268 |
) |
|
|
(268 |
) |
|
|
(536 |
) |
Other Borrowed Funds
|
|
|
(3 |
) |
|
|
(4 |
) |
|
|
(7 |
) |
Subordinated Debentures
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(7 |
) |
|
|
(7 |
) |
Total Interest Bearing Liabilities
|
|
|
(302 |
) |
|
|
(622 |
) |
|
|
(924 |
) |
Total Change
|
|
$ |
1,180 |
|
|
$ |
(1,948 |
) |
|
$ |
(768 |
) |
Notes: Rate/volume variance is allocated based on the percentage relationship of changes in volume and changes in rate to the total "net change." The above figures have been rounded to the nearest whole number.
Net interest income decreased $787,000 or 4.3% to $17.5 million during the first quarter of 2013 compared to $18.3 million for the first quarter of 2012. On a fully tax equivalent basis, net interest income decreased 4.1% and totaled $17.8 million at March 31, 2013, compared to $18.6 million at March 31, 2012. As more fully discussed below, the decrease in net interest income was primarily due to a 20 basis point decrease in net interest margin.
Net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis, expressed as a percentage of average total earning assets, is referred to as the net interest margin. For the quarter ended March 31, 2013, the Company’s net interest margin was 4.01% compared to 4.21% for the quarter ended March 31, 2012. This decrease in net interest margin was due primarily to a decline in loan and investment securities yields that exceeded a corresponding drop in funding costs.
Average loans totaled $1.2 billion for the quarter ended March 31, 2013; an increase of $73.4 million compared to the average balance for the quarter ended March 31, 2012. Loans increased from 64.3% of average earning assets at March 31, 2012 to 67.5% at March 31, 2013. As a result of the continuing impact of the sustained low rate environment since late 2008, the annualized yield on the Company’s loan portfolio declined to 5.14% for the quarter ended March 31, 2013, compared to 5.79% for the quarter ended March 31, 2012. Overall, the positive impact on interest revenue from the increase in loan balances was offset by the negative impact of a decline in yields resulting in interest revenue from loans decreasing 6.3% to $15.4 million for quarter ended March 31, 2013. The Company has been experiencing aggressive competitor pricing for loans to which it may need to continue to respond in order to retain key customers. This could place even greater negative pressure on future loan yields and net interest margin.
The investment portfolio is the other main component of the Company’s earning assets. Since the risk factor for investments is typically lower than that of loans, the yield earned on investments is generally less than that of loans. Average investment securities totaled $516.4 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2013; a decrease of $34.4 million compared to the average balance for the quarter ended March 31, 2012. Tax equivalent interest income on securities decreased $653,000 to $3.1 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2013, compared to $3.8 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2012. The average investment portfolio yield, on a tax equivalent (TE) basis, was 2.4% for the quarter ended March 31, 2013, compared to 2.7% for the quarter ended March 31, 2012. This decrease in yield was caused by a significant decline in the yield on the Company’s mortgage-backed securities portfolio due to: (1) a shift in mix from 30 year MBS to 10, 15 and 20 year MBS; (2) a decline in overall mortgage rates; and (3) increased prepayment speeds on MBS purchased at a premium requiring those premiums to be amortized over a shorter period. This decline was partially offset by a shift in mix from short-term government agencies securities into mortgage-back securities and corporate securities. See “Financial Condition – Investment Securities” for a discussion of the Company’s investment strategy in 2013. Net interest income on the Schedule of Year-to-Date Average Balances and Interest Rates is shown on a tax equivalent basis, which is higher than net interest income as reflected on the Consolidated Statement of Income because of adjustments that relate to income on securities that are exempt from federal income taxes.
Interest bearing deposits with banks and overnight investments in Federal Funds Sold are additional earning assets available to the Company. Average interest bearing deposits with banks consisted of: (1) $750,000 in Community Reinvestment Act (‘CRA’) qualified CD’s with various banks; and (2) $69.5 million in FRB deposits. The average rate paid on CRA qualified CD’s for the first quarter of 2013 was 0.38% and balances with the FRB earn interest at the Fed Funds rate, which has been 0.25% since December 2008. Average interest bearing deposits with banks for the quarter ended March 31, 2013, was $70.2 million, a decrease of $13.7 million compared to the average balance for the quarter ended March 31, 2012. Interest income on interest bearing deposits with banks for the quarter ended March 31, 2013, decreased $9,000 to $44,000 compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2012.
Average interest-bearing sources of funds decreased $37.2 million or 2.8% during the first quarter of 2013. Of that decrease: (1) interest-bearing transaction deposits increased $27.2 million; (2) savings and money market deposits increased $52.9 million; (3) time deposits decreased $56.8 million; (4) securities sold under agreement to repurchase decreased $60 million (see “Financial Condition - Securities Sold Under Agreement to Repurchase”); (5) Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) Advances decreased $437,000 (see “Financial Condition – Federal Home Loan Bank Advances and Federal Reserve Bank Borrowings”); and (6) subordinated debt remained unchanged (see “Financial Condition – Subordinated Debentures”).
During the first quarter of 2013, the Company was able to grow average interest bearing deposits by $23.3 million. See “Financial Condition – Deposits” for a discussion of trends in the Company’s deposit base. Total interest expense on deposits was $683,000 for the first quarter of 2013 as compared to $1.1 million for the first quarter of 2012. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits was 0.22% for the first quarter of 2013 compared to 0.34% for the first quarter of 2012. The Company anticipates that this decline in deposit rates, if any, will be much more modest through the remainder of 2013.
Provision and Allowance for Credit Losses
As a financial institution that assumes lending and credit risks as a principal element of its business, credit losses will be experienced in the normal course of business. The Company has established credit management policies and procedures that govern both the approval of new loans and the monitoring of the existing portfolio. The Company manages and controls credit risk through comprehensive underwriting and approval standards, dollar limits on loans to one borrower, and by restricting loans made primarily to its principal market area where management believes it is best able to assess the applicable risk. Additionally, management has established guidelines to ensure the diversification of the Company’s credit portfolio such that even within key portfolio sectors such as real estate or agriculture, the portfolio is diversified across factors such as location, building type, crop type, etc. See “Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk – Credit Risk.” Management reports regularly to the Board of Directors regarding trends and conditions in the loan portfolio and regularly conducts credit reviews of individual loans. Loans that are performing but have shown some signs of weakness are subject to more stringent reporting and oversight.
Allowance for Credit Losses
The allowance for credit losses is an estimate of probable incurred credit losses inherent in the Company's loan portfolio as of the balance-sheet date. The allowance is established through a provision for credit losses which is charged to expense. Additions to the allowance are expected to maintain the adequacy of the total allowance after credit losses and loan growth. Credit exposures determined to be uncollectible are charged against the allowance. Cash received on previously charged off amounts is recorded as a recovery to the allowance. The overall allowance consists of two primary components, specific reserves related to impaired loans and general reserves for inherent losses related to loans collectively evaluated for impairment.
A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due, including principal and interest, according to the contractual terms of the original agreement. Loans determined to be impaired are individually evaluated for impairment. When a loan is impaired, the Company measures impairment based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, except that as a practical expedient, it may measure impairment based on a loan's observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. A loan is collateral dependent if the repayment of the loan is expected to be provided solely by the underlying collateral.
A restructuring of a loan constitutes a troubled debt restructuring (TDR) if the Company for economic or legal reasons related to the debtor's financial difficulties grants a concession to the debtor that it would not otherwise consider. Restructured loans typically present an elevated level of credit risk as the borrowers are not able to perform according to the original contractual terms. Loans that are reported as TDRs are considered impaired and measured for impairment as described above.
Generally, the Company will not restructure loans for customers unless: (i) the existing loan is brought current as to principal and interest payments; and (ii) the restructured loan can be underwritten to reasonable underwriting standards. If these standards are not met other actions will be pursued (e.g., foreclosure) to collect outstanding loan amounts. After restructure a determination is made whether the loan will be kept on accrual status based upon the underwriting and historical performance of the restructured credit.
The determination of the general reserve for loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment is based on estimates made by management, to include, but not limited to, consideration of historical losses by portfolio segment, internal asset classifications, and qualitative factors to include economic trends in the Company's service areas, industry experience and trends, geographic concentrations, estimated collateral values, the Company's underwriting policies, the character of the loan portfolio, and probable losses inherent in the portfolio taken as a whole.
The Company maintains a separate allowance for each portfolio segment (loan type). These portfolio segments include: (1) commercial real estate; (2) agricultural real estate; (3) real estate construction (including land and development loans); (4) residential 1st mortgages; (5) home equity lines and loans; (6) agricultural; (7) commercial; and (8) consumer & other. See “Financial Condition – Loans” for examples of loans made by the Company. The allowance for credit losses attributable to each portfolio segment, which includes both impaired loans and loans that are not impaired, is combined to determine the Company's overall allowance, which is included on the consolidated balance sheet.
The Company assigns a risk rating to all loans and periodically performs detailed reviews of all such loans over a certain threshold to identify credit risks and to assess the overall collectability of the portfolio. A credit grade is established at inception for smaller balance loans, such as consumer and residential real estate, and then updated only when the loan becomes contractually delinquent or when the borrower requests a modification. During these internal reviews, management monitors and analyzes the financial condition of borrowers and guarantors, trends in the industries in which borrowers operate and the fair values of collateral securing these loans. These credit quality indicators are used to assign a risk rating to each individual loan. These risk ratings are also subject to examination by independent specialists engaged by the Company. The risk ratings can be grouped into five major categories, defined as follows:
Pass – A pass loan is a strong credit with no existing or known potential weaknesses deserving of management's close attention.
Special Mention – A special mention loan has potential weaknesses that deserve management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan or in the Company's credit position at some future date. Special Mention loans are not adversely classified and do not expose the Company to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification.
Substandard – A substandard loan is not adequately protected by the current financial condition and paying capacity of the borrower or the value of the collateral pledged, if any. Loans classified as substandard have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. Well-defined weaknesses include a project's lack of marketability, inadequate cash flow or collateral support, failure to complete construction on time or the project's failure to fulfill economic expectations. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.
Doubtful – Loans classified doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, based on currently known facts, conditions and values, highly questionable or improbable.
Loss – Loans classified as loss are considered uncollectible. Once a loan becomes delinquent and repayment becomes questionable, the Company will address collateral shortfalls with the borrower and attempt to obtain additional collateral. If this is not forthcoming and payment in full is unlikely, the Bank will estimate its probable loss and immediately charge-off some or all of the balance.
The general reserve component of the allowance for credit losses also consists of reserve factors that are based on management's assessment of the following for each portfolio segment: (1) inherent credit risk; (2) historical losses; and (3) other qualitative factors. These reserve factors are inherently subjective and are driven by the repayment risk associated with each portfolio segment described below:
Commercial Real Estate – Commercial real estate mortgage loans generally possess a higher inherent risk of loss than other real estate portfolio segments, except land and construction loans. Adverse economic developments or an overbuilt market impact commercial real estate projects and may result in troubled loans. Trends in vacancy rates of commercial properties impact the credit quality of these loans. High vacancy rates reduce operating revenues and the ability for properties to produce sufficient cash flow to service debt obligations.
Agricultural Real Estate and Agricultural – Loans secured by crop production, livestock and related real estate are vulnerable to two risk factors that are largely outside the control of Company and borrowers: commodity prices and weather conditions.
Real Estate Construction – Real Estate Construction loans, including land loans, generally possess a higher inherent risk of loss than other real estate portfolio segments. A major risk arises from the necessity to complete projects within specified cost and time lines. Trends in the construction industry significantly impact the credit quality of these loans, as demand drives construction activity. In addition, trends in real estate values significantly impact the credit quality of these loans, as property values determine the economic viability of construction projects.
Commercial – Commercial loans generally possess a lower inherent risk of loss than real estate portfolio segments because these loans are generally underwritten to existing cash flows of operating businesses. Debt coverage is provided by business cash flows and economic trends influenced by unemployment rates and other key economic indicators are closely correlated to the credit quality of these loans.
Residential 1st Mortgages and Home Equity Lines and Loans – The degree of risk in residential real estate lending depends primarily on the loan amount in relation to collateral value, the interest rate and the borrower's ability to repay in an orderly fashion. These loans generally possess a lower inherent risk of loss than other real estate portfolio segments, although this is not always true as evidenced by the weakness in residential real estate values over the past five years. Economic trends determined by unemployment rates and other key economic indicators are closely correlated to the credit quality of these loans. Weak economic trends indicate that the borrowers' capacity to repay their obligations may be deteriorating.
Consumer & Other – A consumer installment loan portfolio is usually comprised of a large number of small loans scheduled to be amortized over a specific period. Most installment loans are made for consumer purchases. Economic trends determined by unemployment rates and other key economic indicators are closely correlated to the credit quality of these loans. Weak economic trends indicate that the borrowers' capacity to repay their obligations may be deteriorating.
In addition, the Company's and Bank's regulators, including the FRB, DFI and FDIC, as an integral part of their examination process, review the adequacy of the allowance. These regulatory agencies may require additions to the allowance based on their judgment about information available at the time of their examinations.
Provision for Credit Losses
Changes in the provision for credit losses between years are the result of management’s evaluation, based upon information currently available, of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses relative to factors such as the credit quality of the loan portfolio, loan growth, current credit losses, and the prevailing economic climate and its effect on borrowers’ ability to repay loans in accordance with the terms of the notes.
The Central Valley of California has been one of the hardest hit areas in the country during this recession. Housing prices in many areas declined as much as 60% and the economic stress eventually spread from residential real estate to other industry segments such as autos and commercial real estate. Unemployment levels remain above 15% in some areas. Accordingly, over the past several years, management and the Board of Directors have increased the Company’s loan loss allowance and as of March 31, 2013, the balance was $34.3 million or 2.79% of total loans. As of March 31, 2012, the allowance for credit losses was $32.9 million, which represented 2.84% of total loans. Although, in management’s opinion, the Company’s levels of net charge-offs and non-performing assets as of March 31, 2013, compare very favorably to our peers at the present time, no significant recovery has yet begun in our local markets and this has resulted in continuing borrower stress.
The Company made no provision for credit losses during the first quarter of 2013 compared to $220,000 for the first quarter of 2012. Net recoveries during the first quarter of 2013 were $38,000 compared to net charge-offs of $295,000 in the first quarter of 2012. See “Overview – Looking Forward: 2013 and Beyond”, “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates – Allowance for Loan Losses” and “Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk-Credit Risk” located in the Company’s 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
After reviewing all factors above, based upon information currently available, management concluded that the allowance for credit losses as of March 31, 2013, was adequate.
|
|
Three Months Ended
|
|
|
|
March 31
|
|
Allowance for Credit Losses (in thousands)
|
|
2013
|
|
|
2012
|
|
Balance at Beginning of Period
|
|
$ |
34,217 |
|
|
$ |
33,017 |
|
Loans Charged Off
|
|
|
(35 |
) |
|
|
(331 |
) |
Recoveries of Loans Previously Charged Off
|
|
|
73 |
|
|
|
36 |
|
Provision Charged to Expense
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
220 |
|
Balance at End of Period
|
|
$ |
34,255 |
|
|
$ |
32,942 |
|
The table below breaks out current quarter activity by portfolio segment (in thousands):
March 31, 2013
|
|
Commercial Real Estate
|
|
|
Agricultural Real Estate
|
|
|
Real Estate Construction
|
|
|
Residential 1st
Mortgages
|
|
|
Home Equity
Lines & Loans
|
|
|
Agricultural
|
|
|
Commercial
|
|
|
Consumer & Other
|
|
|
Unallocated
|
|
|
Total
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year-To-Date Allowance for Credit Losses:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Beginning Balance- January 1, 2013
|
|
$ |
6,464 |
|
|
$ |
2,877 |
|
|
$ |
986 |
|
|
$ |
1,219 |
|
|
$ |
3,235 |
|
|
$ |
10,437 |
|
|
$ |
7,963 |
|
|
$ |
182 |
|
|
$ |
854 |
|
|
$ |
34,217 |
|
Charge-Offs
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(16 |
) |
|
|
(1 |
) |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(18 |
) |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
(35 |
) |
Recoveries
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
47 |
|
|
|
11 |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
73 |
|
Provision
|
|
|
207 |
|
|
|
918 |
|
|
|
(17 |
) |
|
|
57 |
|
|
|
(27 |
) |
|
|
(1,038 |
) |
|
|
(44 |
) |
|
|
(12 |
) |
|
|
(44 |
) |
|
|
- |
|
Ending Balance- March 31, 2013
|
|
$ |
6,671 |
|
|
$ |
3,795 |
|
|
$ |
969 |
|
|
$ |
1,260 |
|
|
$ |
3,209 |
|
|
$ |
9,412 |
|
|
$ |
7,966 |
|
|
$ |
163 |
|
|
$ |
810 |
|
|
$ |
34,255 |
|
Overall, the Allowance for Credit Losses as of March 31, 2013 increased a modest $38,000 from December 31, 2012. However, the allowance allocated to the following categories of loans did change materially during the quarter:
·
|
Agricultural Real Estate allowance balances increased $918,000, primarily as a result of increased loan balances along with increased loss factors associated with continued stress in the dairy industry.
|
·
|
Agricultural allowance balances decreased $1.0 million, primarily as a result of decreased loan balances.
|
See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis - Financial Condition – Classified Loans and Non-Performing Assets” for further discussion regarding these loan categories.
See “Note 3. Allowance for Credit Losses” for additional details regarding the provision and allowance for credit losses.
Non-Interest Income
Non-interest income includes: (1) service charges and fees from deposit accounts; (2) net gains and losses from investment securities; (3) increases in the cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance; (4) debit card and ATM fees; (5) net gains and losses on non-qualified deferred compensation plans; and (6) fees from other miscellaneous business services.
Overall, non-interest income increased $1.6 million or 40.1% for the three months ended March 31, 2013, compared to the same period of 2012. This increase was primarily due to: (1) a $735,000 increase in net gain on sale of investment securities; (2) a $759,000 increase in the net gain on deferred compensation investments; and (3) a $123,000 increase in swap referral fee income. These increases were partially offset by a $100,000 decrease in fees related to the Company’s overdraft priviledge service.
Balances in non-qualified deferred compensation plans may be invested in financial instruments whose market value fluctuates based upon trends in interest rates and stock prices. Although Generally Accepted Accounting Principles require these investment gains/losses be recorded in non-interest income, an offsetting entry is also required to be made to non-interest expense resulting in no effect on the Company’s net income.
Non-Interest Expense
Non-interest expense for the Company includes expenses for: (1) salaries and employee benefits; (2) net gain on deferred compensation investment; (3) occupancy; (4) equipment; (5) ORE holding costs; (6) supplies; (7) legal fees; (8) professional services; (9) data processing; (10) marketing; (11) deposit insurance; and (12) other miscellaneous expenses.
Overall, non-interest expense increased $837,000 or 6.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2013, compared to the same period in 2012. This increase was primarily comprised of: (1) a $124,000 increase in salaries and employee benefits; (2) a $759,000 increase in the net gain on deferred compensation investments; and (3) a $197,000 increase in other non-interest expenses. These increases were partially offset by a $198,000 decrease in legal expenses.
Balances in non-qualified deferred compensation plans may be invested in financial instruments whose market value fluctuates based upon trends in interest rates and stock prices. Although Generally Accepted Accounting Principles require these investment gains/losses be recorded in non-interest income, an offsetting entry is also required to be made to non-interest expense resulting in no effect on the Company’s net income.
Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes increased 3.0% to $3.8 million for the first quarter of 2013 compared to the first quarter of 2012. The effective tax rate for the first quarter of 2013 was 37.7% compared to 37.2% for the first quarter of 2012. The Company’s effective tax rate fluctuates from quarter to quarter due primarily to changes in the mix of taxable and tax-exempt earning sources. The effective rates were lower than the statutory rate of 42% due primarily to benefits regarding the cash surrender value of life insurance; California enterprise zone interest income exclusion; California enterprise zone hiring tax credit; and tax-exempt interest income on municipal securities and loans.
Current tax law causes the Company’s current taxes payable to approximate or exceed the current provision for taxes on the income statement. Three provisions have had a significant effect on the Company’s current income tax liability: (1) the restrictions on the deductibility of credit losses; (2) deductibility of retirement and other long-term employee benefits only when paid; and (3) the statutory deferral of deductibility of California franchise taxes on the Company’s federal return.
Financial Condition
This section discusses material changes in the Company’s balance sheet at March 31, 2013, as compared to December 31, 2012 and to March 31, 2012. As previously discussed (see “Overview”) the Company’s financial condition can be influenced by the seasonal banking needs of its agricultural customers.
Investment Securities
The investment portfolio provides the Company with an income alternative to loans. The debt securities in the Company’s investment portfolio have historically been comprised primarily of: (1) mortgage-backed securities issued by federal government-sponsored entities; (2) debt securities issued by government agencies and government-sponsored entities; and (3) investment grade bank-qualified municipal bonds. However, during 2012, the Company began to selectively add investment grade corporate securities (floating rate and fixed rate with maturities less than 5 years) to the portfolio in order to obtain yields that exceed government agency securities of equivalent maturity without subjecting the Company to the interest rate risk associated with mortgage-backed securities.
The Company’s investment portfolio at March 31, 2013 was $583.3 million compared to $486.4 million at the end of 2012, an increase of $96.9 million or 20.0%. At March 31, 2012, the investment portfolio totaled $598.2 million. The mix of the investment portfolio has changed over the past three years. To protect against future increases in market interest rates, while at the same time generating some reasonable level of current yields, the Company has invested most of its available funds over the past three years in shorter term government agency & government-sponsored entity securities and shorter term (10, 15, and 20 year) mortgage-backed securities. Beginning in mid-2012 the Company began to reduce its investment in mortgage-backed securities in order to reduce the risk associated with fixed rate term assets purchased at a premium. Excess cash was placed into corporate securities or left on deposit with the FRB. During the first quarter of 2013, as lower coupon 20 year mortgage-backed securities were issued at lower premiums, the Company reinvested excess cash into these securities.
The Company's total investment portfolio currently represents 29.6% of the Company’s total assets as compared to 24.6% at December 31, 2012, and 30.7% at March 31, 2012.
As of March 31, 2013 the Company held $70.8 million of municipal investments, of which $57.9 million were bank-qualified municipal bonds, all classified as held-to-maturity. The financial problems experienced by certain municipalities over the past five years, along with the financial stresses exhibited by some of the large monoline bond insurers, has increased the overall risk associated with bank-qualified municipal bonds. This situation caused the Company not to purchase any municipal bonds between late 2006 and year-end 2011. However, during the first quarter of 2012 the Company began investing in bank-qualified municipals that were rated AA or better. As of March 31, 2013 ninety-three percent of the Company’s bank-qualified municipal bond portfolio is rated at either the issue or issuer level, and all of these ratings are “investment grade.” Additionally, in order to comply with Section 939A of the Dodd-Frank Act, the Company performs its own credit analysis on new purchases of municipal bonds and corporate securities. The Company monitors the status of the approximately seven percent ($3.8 million) of the portfolio that is not rated and at the current time does not believe any of them to be exhibiting financial problems that could result in a loss in any individual security.
Not included in the investment portfolio are interest bearing deposits with banks and overnight investments in Federal Funds Sold. Interest bearing deposits with banks consist of: (1) Community Reinvestment Act (‘CRA’) qualified CD’s with various banks; and (2) FRB deposits. The FRB currently pays interest on the deposits that banks maintain in their FRB accounts, whereas historically banks had to sell these Federal Funds to other banks in order to earn interest. Since balances at the FRB are effectively risk free, the Company elected to maintain its excess cash at the FRB. Interest bearing deposits with banks totaled $12.8 million at March 31, 2013, $82.1 million at December 31, 2012 and $52.2 million at March 31, 2012.
The Company classifies its investments as held-to-maturity, trading, or available-for-sale. Securities are classified as held-to-maturity and are carried at amortized cost when the Company has the intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. Trading securities are securities acquired for short-term appreciation and are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses recorded in non-interest income. As of March 31, 2013, December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2012, there were no securities in the trading portfolio. Securities classified as available-for-sale include securities, which may be sold to effectively manage interest rate risk exposure, prepayment risk, satisfy liquidity demands and other factors. These securities are reported at fair value with aggregate, unrealized gains or losses excluded from income and included as a separate component of shareholders’ equity, net of related income taxes.
Loans
Loans can be categorized by borrowing purpose and use of funds. Common examples of loans made by the Company include:
Commercial and Agricultural Real Estate - These are loans secured by farmland, commercial real estate, multifamily residential properties, and other non-farm, non-residential properties within our market area. Commercial mortgage term loans can be made if the property is either income producing or scheduled to become income producing based upon acceptable pre-leasing, and the income will be the Bank's primary source of repayment for the loan. Loans are made both on owner occupied and investor properties; generally do not exceed 15 years (and may have pricing adjustments on a shorter timeframe); have debt service coverage ratios of 1.00 or better with a target of greater than 1.20; and fixed rates that are most often tied to treasury indices with an appropriate spread based on the amount of perceived risk in the loan.
Real Estate Construction - These are loans for development and construction (the Company generally requires the borrower to fund the land acquisition) and are secured by commercial or residential real estate. These loans are generally made only to experienced local developers with whom the Bank has a successful track record; for projects in our service area; with Loan To Value (LTV) below 75%; and where the property can be developed and sold within 2 years. Commercial construction loans are made only when there is a written take-out commitment from the Bank or an acceptable financial institution or government agency. Most acquisition, development and construction loans are tied to the prime rate with an appropriate spread based on the amount of perceived risk in the loan.
Residential 1st Mortgages - These are loans primarily made on owner occupied residences; generally underwritten to income and LTV guidelines similar to those used by FNMA and FHLMC; however, we will make loans on rural residential properties up to 20 acres. Most residential loans have terms from ten to twenty years and carry fixed rates priced off of treasury rates. The Company has always underwritten mortgage loans based upon traditional underwriting criteria and does not make loans that are known in the industry as “subprime,” “no or low doc,” or “stated income.”
Home Equity Lines and Loans - These are loans made to individuals for home improvements and other personal needs. Generally, amounts do not exceed $250,000; Combined Loan To Value (CLTV) does not exceed 80%; FICO scores are at or above 670; Total Debt Ratios do not exceed 43%; and in some situations the Company is in a 1st lien position.
Agricultural - These are loans and lines of credit made to farmers to finance agricultural production. Lines of credit are extended to finance the seasonal needs of farmers during peak growing periods; are usually established for periods no longer than 12 to 24 months; are often secured by general filing liens on livestock, crops, crop proceeds and equipment; and are most often tied to the prime rate with an appropriate spread based on the amount of perceived risk in the loan. Term loans are primarily made for the financing of equipment, expansion or modernization of a processing plant, or orchard/vineyard development; have maturities from five to seven years; and fixed rates that are most often tied to treasury indices with an appropriate spread based on the amount of perceived risk in the loan.
Commercial - These are loans and lines of credit to businesses that are sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLC’s and corporations. Lines of credit are extended to finance the seasonal working capital needs of customers during peak business periods; are usually established for periods no longer than 12 to 24 months; are often secured by general filing liens on accounts receivable, inventory and equipment; and are most often tied to the prime rate with an appropriate spread based on the amount of perceived risk in the loan. Term loans are primarily made for the financing of equipment, expansion or modernization of a plant or purchase of a business; have maturities from five to seven years; and fixed rates that are most often tied to treasury indices with an appropriate spread based on the amount of perceived risk in the loan.
Consumer - These are loans to individuals for personal use, and primarily include loans to purchase automobiles or recreational vehicles, and unsecured lines of credit. The Company has a very minimal consumer loan portfolio, and loans are primarily made as an accommodation to deposit customers.
Each loan type involves risks specific to the: (1) borrower; (2) collateral; and (3) loan structure. See “Results of Operations - Provision and Allowance for Credit Losses” for a more detailed discussion of risks by loan type. The Company’s current underwriting policies and standards are designed to mitigate the risks involved in each loan type. The Company’s policies require that loans are approved only to those borrowers exhibiting a clear source of repayment and the ability to service existing and proposed debt. The Company’s underwriting procedures for all loan types require careful consideration of the borrower, the borrower’s financial condition, the borrower’s management capability, the borrower’s industry, and the economic environment affecting the loan.
Most loans made by the Company are secured, but collateral is the secondary or tertiary source of repayment; cash flow is our primary source of repayment. The quality and liquidity of collateral are important and must be confirmed before the loan is made.
In order to be responsive to borrower needs, the Company prices loans: (1) on both a fixed rate and adjustable rate basis; (2) over different terms; and (3) based upon different rate indices; as long as these structures are consistent with the Company’s interest rate risk management policies and procedures (see Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk-Interest Rate Risk).
The Company's loan portfolio at March 31, 2013 totaled $1.2 billion, an increase of $68.4 million or 5.9% over March 31, 2012. This increase has occurred despite what has been a difficult economic environment combined with a very competitive pricing environment, and is a result of the Company’s intensified business development efforts directed toward credit-qualified borrowers. No assurances can be made that this growth in the loan portfolio will continue until the economy in the Central Valley of California improves.
Loans at March 31, 2013 decreased $20.2 million from December 31, 2012, primarily as a result of the normal seasonal paydowns of loans made to the Company’s dairy customers.
The following table sets forth the distribution of the loan portfolio by type and percent as of the periods indicated.
Loan Portfolio
|
|
March 31, 2013
|
|
|
December 31, 2012
|
|
|
March 31, 2012
|
|
(in thousands)
|
|
$ |
|
|
% |
|
|
$ |
|
|
% |
|
|
$ |
|
|
% |
|
Commercial Real Estate
|
|
$ |
363,384 |
|
|
|
29.6 |
% |
|
$ |
353,109 |
|
|
|
28.3 |
% |
|
$ |
323,274 |
|
|
|
27.9 |
% |
Agricultural Real Estate
|
|
|
318,823 |
|
|
|
25.9 |
% |
|
|
311,992 |
|
|
|
25.0 |
% |
|
|
277,631 |
|
|
|
23.9 |
% |
Real Estate Construction
|
|
|
32,681 |
|
|
|
2.7 |
% |
|
|
32,680 |
|
|
|
2.6 |
% |
|
|
32,036 |
|
|
|
2.8 |
% |
Residential 1st Mortgages
|
|
|
145,419 |
|
|
|
11.8 |
% |
|
|
140,257 |
|
|
|
11.2 |
% |
|
|
111,660 |
|
|
|
9.6 |
% |
Home Equity Lines and Loans
|
|
|
40,141 |
|
|
|
3.3 |
% |
|
|
42,042 |
|
|
|
3.4 |
% |
|
|
49,094 |
|
|
|
4.2 |
% |
Agricultural
|
|
|
181,725 |
|
|
|
14.8 |
% |
|
|
221,032 |
|
|
|
17.7 |
% |
|
|
200,034 |
|
|
|
17.2 |
% |
Commercial
|
|
|
142,115 |
|
|
|
11.6 |
% |
|
|
143,293 |
|
|
|
11.5 |
% |
|
|
160,066 |
|
|
|
13.8 |
% |
Consumer & Other
|
|
|
4,898 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
% |
|
|
5,058 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
% |
|
|
6,601 |
|
|
|
0.6 |
% |
Total Gross Loans
|
|
|
1,229,186 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
|
|
1,249,463 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
|
|
1,160,396 |
|
|
|
100.0 |
% |
Less: Unearned Income
|
|
|
2,491 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,561 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,113 |
|
|
|
|
|
Subtotal
|
|
|
1,226,695 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,246,902 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,158,283 |
|
|
|
|
|
Less: Allowance for Credit Losses
|
|
|
34,255 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
34,217 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
32,942 |
|
|
|
|
|
Net Loans
|
|
$ |
1,192,440 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1,212,685 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1,125,341 |
|
|
|
|
|
Classified Loans and Non-Performing Assets
All loans are assigned a credit risk grade using grading standards developed by bank regulatory agencies. See “Results of Operations - Provision and Allowance for Credit Losses” for more detail on risk grades. The Company utilizes the services of a third-party independent loan review firm to perform evaluations of individual loans and review the credit risk grades the Company places on loans. Loans that are judged to exhibit a higher risk profile are referred to as “classified loans,” and these loans receive increased management attention. As of March 31, 2013, classified loans totaled $22.2 million compared to $21.5 million at December 31, 2012 and $23.4 million at March 31, 2012.
Classified loans with higher levels of credit risk can be further designated as “impaired” loans. A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due, including principal and interest, according to the contractual terms of the original agreement. See “Results of Operations - Provision and Allowance for Credit Losses” for further details. Impaired loans consist of: (1) non-accrual loans; and/or (2) restructured loans that are still performing (i.e., accruing interest).
Non-Accrual Loans - Accrual of interest on loans is generally discontinued when a loan becomes contractually past due by 90 days or more with respect to interest or principal. When loans are 90 days past due, but in management's judgment are well secured and in the process of collection, they may not be classified as non-accrual. When a loan is placed on non-accrual status, all interest previously accrued but not collected is reversed. Income on such loans is then recognized only to the extent that cash is received and where the future collection of principal is probable. As of March 31, 2013 non-accrual loans totaled $9.5 million. At December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2012, non-accrual loans totaled $9.3 million and $3.8 million, respectively.
Restructured Loans - A restructuring of a loan constitutes a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”) if the Company for economic or legal reasons related to the debtor's financial difficulties grants a concession to the debtor that it would not otherwise consider. Restructured loans typically present an elevated level of credit risk as the borrowers are not able to perform according to the original contractual terms. If the restructured loan was current on all payments at the time of restructure and management reasonably expects the borrower will continue to perform after the restructure, management may keep the loan on accrual. As of March 31, 2013, restructured loans on accrual totaled $1.4 million as compared to $2.3 million at December 31, 2012. This decline was primarily a result of 14 commercial, agricultural, and residential loans that totaled $1.0 million as of December 31, 2012 no longer being classified as a TDR since they were restructured at a market rate in a prior calendar year and are currently in compliance with their modified terms. Restructured loans on accrual at March 31, 2012 were $1.2 million.
Other Real Estate - Loans where the collateral has been repossessed are classified as other real estate ("ORE") or, if the collateral is personal property, the loan is classified as other assets on the Company's financial statements.
The following table sets forth the amount of the Company's non-performing loans (defined as non-accrual loans plus accruing loans past due 90 days or more) and ORE as of the dates indicated.
Non-Performing Assets
(in thousands)
|
|
March 31, 2013
|
|
|
Dec. 31, 2012
|
|
|
March 31, 2012
|
|
Non-Performing Loans
|
|
$ |
9,478 |
|
|
$ |
9,298 |
|
|
$ |
3,760 |
|
Other Real Estate
|
|
|
4,743 |
|
|
|
2,553 |
|
|
|
2,924 |
|
Total Non-Performing Assets
|
|
$ |
14,221 |
|
|
$ |
11,851 |
|
|
$ |
6,684 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-Performing Loans as a % of Total Loans
|
|
|
0.77 |
% |
|
|
0.74 |
% |
|
|
0.32 |
% |
Restructured Loans (Performing)
|
|
$ |
1,427 |
|
|
$ |
2,300 |
|
|
$ |
1,239 |
|
Although management believes that non-performing loans are generally well-secured and that potential losses are provided for in the Company’s allowance for credit losses, there can be no assurance that future deterioration in economic conditions and/or collateral values will not result in future credit losses. Specific reserves of $1.3 million, $993,000, and $1.1 million have been established for non-performing loans at March 31, 2013, December 31, 2012 and March 31, 2012, respectively.
Foregone interest income on non-accrual loans which would have been recognized during the period, if all such loans had been current in accordance with their original terms, totaled $219,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2013, $209,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012, and $180,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2012.
The Company reported $4.7 million of ORE at March 31, 2013, $2.6 million at December 31, 2012, and $2.9 million at March 31, 2012. These values are each net of a $4.1 million reserve for ORE valuation allowance. The increase of $2.1 million from December 31, 2012 was the result of a dairy foreclosure that occurred in the first quarter of 2013.
Except for those classified and non-performing loans discussed above, the Company’s management is not aware of any loans as of March 31, 2013, for which known financial problems of the borrower would cause serious doubts as to the ability of these borrowers to materially comply with their present loan repayment terms, or any known events that would result in the loan being designated as non-performing at some future date. However, the Central Valley of California continues to be one of the hardest hit areas in the country during this recession. Housing prices in many areas are down as much as 60% and the economic stress has spread from residential real estate to other industry segments such as autos and commercial real estate. Unemployment levels remain above 15% in many areas. As a result of this combination of: (1) significant declines in real estate values over the past several years; and (2) continuing uncertainty in general economic conditions leading to increased unemployment and business failures; borrowers who up until this time have been able to keep current in their payments may experience deterioration in their overall financial condition, increasing the potential of default. See “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors” in the Company’s 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Deposits
One of the key sources of funds to support earning assets is the generation of deposits from the Company’s customer base. The ability to grow the customer base and subsequently deposits is a significant element in the performance of the Company.
The Company's deposit balances at March 31, 2013 have increased $71.1 million or 4.3% compared to March 31, 2012. In addition to the Company’s ongoing business development activities for deposits, the following factors positively impacted year-over-year deposit growth: (1) the Federal government’s decision to permanently increase FDIC deposit insurance limits from $100,000 to $250,000 per depositor; and (2) the Company’s strong financial results and position and F&M Bank’s reputation as one of the most safe and sound banks in its market territory. The Company expects that, at some point, deposit customers may begin to diversify how they invest their money (e.g., move funds back into the stock market or other investments) and this could impact future deposit growth.
Although total deposits have increased 4.3% since March 31, 2012, the Company’s focus has been on increasing low cost transaction and savings accounts, which have grown at a much faster pace:
·
|
Demand and interest-bearing transaction accounts increased $72.4 million or 12.0% since March 31, 2012.
|
·
|
Savings and money market accounts have increased $61.8 million or 11.7% since March 31, 2012.
|
·
|
Time deposit accounts have decreased $63.1 million or 12.3% since March 31, 2012. This decline was the continuing result of an explicit pricing strategy adopted by the Company beginning in 2009 based upon the recognition that market CD rates were greater than the yields that the Company could obtain reinvesting these funds in short-term government agency & government-sponsored entity securities or overnight Fed Funds. Beginning in 2009, management carefully reviewed time deposit customers and reduced our deposit rates to customers that did not also have transaction, money market, and/or savings balances with us (i.e., depositors who were not “relationship customers”). Given the Company’s strong deposit growth in transaction, savings and money market accounts, this time deposit decline has not presented any liquidity issues and it has significantly enhanced the Company’s net interest margin and earnings.
|
The Company's deposit balances at March 31, 2013 have decreased $6.9 million or 0.4% compared to December 31, 2012. Savings and money market deposits increased 9.0% or $48.8 million while demand and interest-bearing transaction accounts decreased by $46.9 million or 6.5% and time deposit accounts decreased by $8.8 million or 1.9%. Deposit trends in the first half of the year can be impacted by the seasonal needs of our agricultural customers.
Federal Home Loan Bank Advances and Federal Reserve Bank Borrowings
Lines of credit with the Federal Reserve Bank and the Federal Home Loan Bank are other key sources of funds to support earning assets See “Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk and Liquidity Risk.” These sources of funds are also used to manage the Company’s interest rate risk exposure, and as opportunities arise, to borrow and invest the proceeds at a positive spread through the investment portfolio.
There were no FHLB Advances at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, and $514,000 at March 31, 2012. The average rate on FHLB advances during the first quarter of 2013 was 0% compared to 5.4% during the first quarter of 2012.
There were no amounts outstanding on the Company’s line of credit with the FRB as of March 31, 2013.
As of March 31, 2012 the Company has additional borrowing capacity of $312.1 million with the Federal Home Loan Bank and $306.5 million with the Federal Reserve Bank. Any borrowings under these lines would be collateralized with loans that have been accepted for pledging at the FHLB and FRB.
Securities Sold Under Agreement to Repurchase
Securities Sold Under Agreement to Repurchase are used as secured borrowing alternatives to FHLB Advances or FRB Borrowings. The Company had no securities sold under agreement to repurchase at March 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, and $60 million at March 31, 2012.
On March 13, 2008, the Bank entered into a $40 million medium term repurchase agreement with Citigroup as part of the Bank’s interest rate risk management strategy. The repurchase agreement pricing rate was 3.20% with an embedded 3-year cap tied to 3 month Libor with a strike price of 3.3675%. The repurchase agreement was to mature March 13, 2013, and was secured by investments in agency pass through securities.
On May 30, 2008, the Company entered into a second $20 million medium term repurchase agreement with Citigroup. The repurchase agreement pricing rate was 4.19% with an embedded 3-year cap tied to 3 month Libor with a strike price of 3.17%. The repurchase agreement was to mature June 5, 2013, and was secured by investments in agency pass through securities.
On June 21, 2012, the Company terminated both repurchase agreements with Citigroup.
Subordinated Debentures
On December 17, 2003, the Company raised $10 million through an offering of trust-preferred securities. Although this amount is reflected as subordinated debt on the Company’s balance sheet, under applicable regulatory guidelines, trust preferred securities qualify as regulatory capital. See “Proposed Capital Rules” for a discussion of the potential impact of proposed regulatory guidelines on this qualification. These securities accrue interest at a variable rate based upon 3-month Libor plus 2.85%. Interest rates reset quarterly and were 3.1% as of March 31, 2013, 3.2% at December 31, 2012 and 3.3% at March 31, 2012. The average rate paid for these securities for the first quarter of 2013 was 3.2% compared to 3.4% for the first quarter of 2012. Additionally, if the Company decided to defer interest on the subordinated debentures, the Company would be prohibited from paying cash dividends on the Company’s common stock.
Capital
The Company relies primarily on capital generated through the retention of earnings to satisfy its capital requirements. The Company engages in an ongoing assessment of its capital needs in order to support business growth and to insure depositor protection. Shareholders’ Equity totaled $209.8 million at March 31, 2013, $205.0 million at December 31, 2012, and $196.2 million at March 31, 2012.
The Company and the Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly discretionary, actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company’s and the Bank's financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company and the Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the Company’s and the Bank's assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Company’s and the Bank's capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors.
Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Company and the Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios set forth in the table below of Total and Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets and of Tier 1 capital to average assets (all terms as defined in the regulations). Management believes, as of March 31, 2013, that the Company and the Bank meet all capital adequacy requirements to which they are subject.
In its most recent notification from the FDIC the Bank was categorized as “well capitalized” under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as “well capitalized,” the Bank must maintain minimum Total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the following table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the institution’s categories.
(in thousands)
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|
Actual
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|
|
Regulatory Capital Requirements
|
|
|
To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions
|
|
The Company:
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|
Amount
|
|
|
Ratio
|
|
|
Amount
|
|
|
Ratio
|
|
|
Amount
|
|
|
Ratio
|
|
As of March 31, 2013
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Capital to Risk Weighted Assets
|
|
$ |
233,793 |
|
|
|
15.12 |
% |
|
$ |
123,659 |
|
|
|
8.0 |
% |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
Tier 1 Capital to Risk Weighted Assets
|
|
$ |
214,285 |
|
|
|
13.86 |
% |
|
$ |
61,830 |
|
|
|
4.0 |
% |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
Tier 1 Capital to Average Assets
|
|
$ |
214,285 |
|
|
|
10.96 |
% |
|
$ |
78.227 |
|
|
|
4.0 |
% |
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
(in thousands)
|
|
Actual
|
|
|
Regulatory Capital Requirements
|
|
|
To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions
|
|
The Bank:
|
|
Amount
|
|
|
Ratio
|
|
|
Amount
|
|
|
Ratio
|
|
|
Amount
|
|
|
Ratio
|
|
As of March 31, 2013
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Capital to Risk Weighted Assets
|
|
$ |
233,705 |
|
|
|
15.12 |
% |
|
$ |
123,644 |
|
|
|
8.0 |
% |
|
$ |
154,555 |
|
|
|
10.0 |
% |
Tier 1 Capital to Risk Weighted Assets
|
|
$ |
214,200 |
|
|
|
13.86 |
% |
|
$ |
61,822 |
|
|
|
4.0 |
% |
|
$ |
92,733 |
|
|
|
6.0 |
% |
Tier 1 Capital to Average Assets
|
|
$ |
214,200 |
|
|
|
10.96 |
% |
|
$ |
78,193 |
|
|
|
4.0 |
% |
|
$ |
97,742 |
|
|
|
5.0 |
% |
As previously discussed (see “Subordinated Debentures”), in order to supplement its regulatory capital base, during December 2003 the Company issued $10 million of trust preferred securities. On March 1, 2005, the Federal Reserve Board issued its final rule effective April 11, 2005, concerning the regulatory capital treatment of trust preferred securities (“TPS”) by bank holding companies (“BHCs”). Under the final rule BHCs may include TPS in Tier 1 capital in an amount equal to 25% of the sum of core capital net of goodwill. Any portion of trust-preferred securities not qualifying as Tier 1 capital would qualify as Tier 2 capital subject to certain limitations. The Company has received notification from the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco that all of the Company’s trust preferred securities currently qualify as Tier 1 capital. However, the capital status of the TPS may be phased out over time under proposed Basel III reforms. See “Proposed Capital Rules.”
The Company is not considered the primary beneficiary of this Trust (variable interest entity), therefore the trust is not consolidated in the Company’s financial statements, but rather the subordinated debentures are shown as a liability.
In 1998, the Board approved the Company’s first common stock repurchase program. This program has been extended and expanded several times since then, and most recently, on September 11, 2012, the Board of Directors approved increasing the funds available for the Company’s common stock repurchase program to $20 million over the three-year period ending September 30, 2015.
There were no stock repurchases during the first quarter of 2013. During the first quarter of 2012 the Company repurchased 485 shares at an average share price of $370. The remaining dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the Company’s Common Stock Repurchase Plan is approximately $20 million.
On August 5, 2008, the Board of Directors approved a Share Purchase Rights Plan (the “Rights Plan”), pursuant to which the Company entered into a Rights Agreement dated August 5, 2008, with Registrar and Transfer Company, as Rights Agent, and the Company declared a dividend of a right to acquire one preferred share purchase right (a “Right”) for each outstanding share of the Company’s common stock, $0.01 par value per share, to stockholders of record at the close of business on August 15, 2008. Generally, the Rights are only triggered and become exercisable if a person or group (the “Acquiring Person”) acquires beneficial ownership of 10 percent or more of the Company’s common stock or announces a tender offer for 10 percent or more of the Company’s common stock.
The Rights Plan is similar to plans adopted by many other publicly traded companies. The effect of the Rights Plan is to discourage any potential acquirer from triggering the Rights without first convincing Farmers & Merchants Bancorp’s Board of Directors that the proposed acquisition is fair to, and in the best interest of, all of the shareholders of the Company. The provisions of the Plan will substantially dilute the equity and voting interest of any potential acquirer unless the Board of Directors approves of the proposed acquisition. Each Right, if and when exercisable, will entitle the registered holder to purchase from the Company one one-hundredth of a share of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, no par value, at a purchase price of $1,200 for each one one-hundredth of a share, subject to adjustment. Each holder of a Right (except for the Acquiring Person, whose Rights will be null and void upon such event) shall thereafter have the right to receive, upon exercise, that number of Common Shares of the Company having a market value of two times the exercise price of the Right. At any time before a person becomes an Acquiring Person, the Rights can be redeemed, in whole, but not in part, by Farmers and Merchants Bancorp’s Board of Directors at a price of $0.001 per Right. The Rights Plan will expire on August 5, 2018.
Proposed Capital Rules
On June 7, 2012, the FRB and FDIC issued proposed rules that would substantially amend the regulatory risk-based capital rules applicable to the Company and the Bank. The proposed rules implement the Basel III regulatory capital reforms and changes required by the Dodd-Frank Act. The proposed rules indicated that the final rules would become effective on January 1, 2013, and the changes set forth in the final rules will be phased in from January 1, 2013 through January 1, 2019. However, the agencies have recently indicated that, due to the volume of public comments received, any final rules would be delayed past January 1, 2013.
Unlike previous proposed rules, the current proposed rules are applicable to all banking organizations that are currently subject to minimum capital requirements (including national banks, state member banks, state nonmember banks, state and federal savings associations, and top-tier bank holding companies domiciled in the United States not subject to the Board’s Small Bank Holding Company Policy Statement), as well as top-tier savings and loan holding companies domiciled in the United States. Previous proposed rules were applicable to all U.S. bank holding companies with consolidated assets of $50 billion or more and any nonbank financial firms that may be designated as systemically important companies.
The proposed rules include new minimum risk-based capital and leverage ratios, which would be phased in during 2013 and 2014, and would refine the definitions of what constitutes "capital" for purposes of calculating those ratios, including the proposed phase-out of trust preferred securities as qualifying regulatory capital. The proposed new minimum capital level requirements applicable to the Company and the Bank under the proposals would be: (i) a new common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5%; (ii) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 6% (increased from 4%); (iii) a total capital ratio of 8% (unchanged from current rules); and (iv) a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 4%. The proposed rules would also establish a "capital conservation buffer" of 2.5% above each of the new regulatory minimum capital ratios which would result in the following minimum ratios: (i) a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 7.0%; (ii) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 8.5%, and (iii) a total capital ratio of 10.5%. The new capital conservation buffer requirement would be phased in beginning in January 2016 at 0.625% of risk-weighted assets and would increase each year until fully implemented in January 2019. An institution would be subject to limitations on paying dividends, engaging in share repurchases, and paying discretionary bonuses if its capital level falls below the buffer amount. These limitations would establish a maximum percentage of eligible retained income that could be utilized for such actions. These proposed rules would also adjust the prompt corrective action categories accordingly.
The proposed rules also implement other revisions to the current capital rules such as recognition of all unrealized gains and losses on available for sale debt and equity securities, and provide that certain instruments, such as TPS, that will no longer qualify as capital would be phased out over time.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
This “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” is based upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. In preparing the Company’s financial statements management makes estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. These judgments govern areas such as the allowance for credit losses, the fair value of financial instruments and accounting for income taxes.
For a full discussion of the Company’s critical accounting policies and estimates see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Company’s 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Off Balance Sheet Commitments
In the normal course of business the Company enters into financial instruments with off balance sheet risks in order to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments consist of commitments to extend credit, letters of credit and other types of financial guarantees. The Company had the following off balance sheet commitments as of the dates indicated.
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
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|
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
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|
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(in thousands)
|
|
March 31, 2013
|
|
|
December 31, 2012
|
|
|
March 31, 2012
|
|
Commitments to Extend Credit
|
|
$ |
348,165 |
|
|
$ |
334,772 |
|
|
$ |
337,301 |
|
Letters of Credit
|
|
|
6,932 |
|
|
|
5,281 |
|
|
|
5,072 |
|
Performance Guarantees Under Interest Rate Swap Contracts Entered Into Between Our Borrowing Customers and Third Parties
|
|
|
1,833 |
|
|
|
1,796 |
|
|
|
749 |
|
The Company's exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party with regard to standby letters of credit, undisbursed loan commitments, and financial guarantees is represented by the contractual notional amount of those instruments. Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. The Company uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for recorded balance sheet items. The Company may or may not require collateral or other security to support financial instruments with credit risk. Evaluations of each customer's creditworthiness are performed on a case-by-case basis.
Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Company to guarantee performance of or payment for a customer to a third party. Most standby letters of credit are issued for 18 months or less. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Additionally, the Company maintains a reserve for off balance sheet commitments which totaled $142,000 at March 31, 2013, December 31, 2012, and March 31, 2012. We do not anticipate any material losses as a result of these transactions.
Risk Management
The Company has adopted risk management policies and procedures, which aim to ensure the proper control and management of all risk factors inherent in the operation of the Company, most importantly credit risk, interest rate risk and liquidity risk. These risk factors are not mutually exclusive. It is recognized that any product or service offered by the Company may expose the Company to one or more of these risk factors.
Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk to earnings or capital arising from an obligor’s failure to meet the terms of any contract or otherwise fail to perform as agreed. Credit risk is found in all activities where success depends on counterparty, issuer, or borrower performance.
Credit risk in the investment portfolio and correspondent bank accounts is addressed through defined limits in the Company’s policy statements. In addition, certain securities carry insurance to enhance credit quality of the bond.
In order to control credit risk in the loan portfolio, the Company has established credit management policies and procedures that govern both the approval of new loans and the monitoring of the existing portfolio. The Company manages and controls credit risk through comprehensive underwriting and approval standards, dollar limits on loans to one borrower, and by restricting loans made primarily to its principal market area where management believes it is best able to assess the applicable risk. Additionally, management has established guidelines to ensure the diversification of the Company’s credit portfolio such that even within key portfolio sectors such as real estate or agriculture, the portfolio is diversified across factors such as location, building type, crop type, etc. However, as a financial institution that assumes lending and credit risks as a principal element of its business, credit losses will be experienced in the normal course of business. The allowance for credit losses is maintained at a level considered by management to be adequate to provide for risks inherent in the loan portfolio. The allowance is increased by provisions charged to operating expense and reduced by net charge-offs.
The Company’s methodology for assessing the appropriateness of the allowance is applied on a regular basis and considers all loans. The systematic methodology consists of two major parts.
Part 1 - includes a detailed analysis of the loan portfolio in two phases. The first phase is conducted in accordance with the “Receivables” topic of the FASB ASC. Individual loans are reviewed to identify loans for impairment. A loan is impaired when principal and interest are deemed uncollectible in accordance with the original contractual terms of the loan. Impairment is measured as either the expected future cash flows discounted at each loan’s effective interest rate, the fair value of the loan’s collateral if the loan is collateral dependent, or an observable market price of the loan, if one exists. Upon measuring the impairment, the Company will ensure an appropriate level of allowance is present or established.
Central to the first phase of the analysis of the loan portfolio is the loan risk rating system. The originating credit officer assigns borrowers an initial risk rating, which is based primarily on a thorough analysis of each borrower’s financial position in conjunction with industry and economic trends. Approvals are made based upon the amount of inherent credit risk specific to the transaction and are reviewed for appropriateness by senior credit administration personnel. Credits are monitored by credit administration personnel for deterioration in a borrower’s financial condition, which would impact the ability of the borrower to perform under the contract. Risk ratings are adjusted as necessary. Risk ratings are reviewed by both the Company’s independent third-party credit examiners and bank examiners from the DFI and FDIC.
Based on the risk rating system, specific allowances are established in cases where management has identified significant conditions or circumstances related to a credit that management believes indicates that the loan is impaired and there is a probability of loss. Management performs a detailed analysis of these loans, including, but not limited to, cash flows, appraisals of the collateral, conditions of the marketplace for liquidating the collateral, and assessment of the guarantors. Management then determines the inherent loss potential and allocates a portion of the allowance for losses as a specific allowance for each of these credits.
The second phase is conducted by segmenting the loan portfolio by risk rating and into groups of loans with similar characteristics in accordance with the “Contingency” topic of the FASB ASC. In this second phase, groups of loans with similar characteristics are reviewed and the appropriate allowance factor is applied based on the historical average charge-off rate for each particular group of loans.
Part 2 - considers qualitative internal and external factors that may affect a loan’s collectability, is based upon management’s evaluation of various conditions, the effects of which are not directly measured in the determination of the historical and specific allowances. The evaluation of the 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 portfolio segments. The conditions evaluated in connection with the second element of the analysis of the allowance include, but are not limited to the following conditions that existed as of the balance sheet date:
§
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general economic and business conditions affecting the key lending areas of the Company;
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§
|
credit quality trends (including trends in collateral values, delinquencies and non-performing loans);
|
§
|
loan volumes, growth rates and concentrations;
|
§
|
loan portfolio seasoning;
|
§
|
specific industry and crop conditions;
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§
|
recent loss experience; and
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§
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duration of the current business cycle.
|
Management reviews these conditions in discussion with the Company’s senior credit officers. To the extent that any of these conditions is evidenced by a specifically identifiable impaired credit or portfolio segment as of the evaluation date, management’s estimate of the effect of such condition may be reflected as a specific allowance applicable to such credit or portfolio segment. Where any of these conditions is not evidenced by a specifically identifiable impaired credit or portfolio segment as of the evaluation date, management’s evaluation of the inherent loss related to such condition is reflected in the second major element of the allowance.
Management believes that based upon the preceding methodology, and using information currently available, the allowance for credit losses at March 31, 2013 was adequate. No assurances can be given that future events may not result in increases in delinquencies, non-performing loans, or net loan charge-offs that would require increases in the provision for credit losses and thereby adversely affect the results of operations.
Interest Rate Risk
The mismatch between maturities of interest sensitive assets and liabilities results in uncertainty in the Company’s earnings and economic value and is referred to as interest rate risk. The Company does not attempt to predict interest rates and positions the balance sheet in a manner, which seeks to minimize, to the extent possible, the effects of changing interest rates.
The Company measures interest rate risk in terms of potential impact on both its economic value and earnings. The methods for governing the amount of interest rate risk include: (1) analysis of asset and liability mismatches (Gap analysis); (2) the utilization of a simulation model; and (3) limits on maturities of investment, loan, and deposit products, which reduces the market volatility of those instruments.
The Gap analysis measures, at specific time intervals, the divergence between earning assets and interest bearing liabilities for which repricing opportunities will occur. A positive difference, or Gap, indicates that earning assets will reprice faster than interest-bearing liabilities. This will generally produce a greater net interest margin during periods of rising interest rates and a lower net interest margin during periods of declining interest rates. Conversely, a negative Gap will generally produce a lower net interest margin during periods of rising interest rates and a greater net interest margin during periods of decreasing interest rates.
The interest rates paid on deposit accounts do not always move in unison with the rates charged on loans. In addition, the magnitude of changes in the rates charged on loans is not always proportionate to the magnitude of changes in the rate paid for deposits. Consequently, changes in interest rates do not necessarily result in an increase or decrease in the net interest margin solely as a result of the differences between repricing opportunities of earning assets or interest bearing liabilities.
The Company also utilizes the results of a dynamic simulation model to quantify the estimated exposure of net interest income to sustained interest rate changes. The sensitivity of the Company’s net interest income is measured over a rolling one-year horizon.
The simulation model estimates the impact of changing interest rates on interest income from all interest earning assets and the interest expense paid on all interest bearing liabilities reflected on the Company’s balance sheet. This sensitivity analysis is compared to policy limits, which specify a maximum tolerance level for net interest income exposure over a one-year horizon assuming no balance sheet growth, given a 200 basis point upward and a 100 basis point downward shift in interest rates. A shift in rates over a 12-month period is assumed. Results that exceed policy limits, if any, are analyzed for risk tolerance and reported to the Board with appropriate recommendations. At March 31, 2013, the Company’s estimated net interest income sensitivity to changes in interest rates, as a percent of net interest income was a decrease in net interest income of 0.48% if rates increase by 200 basis points and a decrease in net interest income of 0.42% if rates decline 100 basis points. Comparatively, at December 31, 2012, the Company’s estimated net interest income sensitivity to changes in interest rates, as a percent of net interest income was an increase in net interest income of 0.62% if rates increase by 200 basis points and a decrease in net interest income of 0.55% if rates decline 100 basis points.
The estimated sensitivity does not necessarily represent a Company forecast and the results may not be indicative of actual changes to the Company’s net interest income. These estimates are based upon a number of assumptions including: the nature and timing of interest rate levels including yield curve shape; prepayments on loans and securities; pricing strategies on loans and deposits; replacement of asset and liability cash flows; and other assumptions. While the assumptions used are based on current economic and local market conditions, there is no assurance as to the predictive nature of these conditions including how customer preferences or competitor influences might change.
Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk to earnings or capital resulting from the Company’s inability to meet its obligations when they come due without incurring unacceptable losses. It includes the ability to manage unplanned decreases or changes in funding sources and to recognize or address changes in market conditions that affect the Company’s ability to liquidate assets or acquire funds quickly and with minimum loss of value. The Company endeavors to maintain a cash flow adequate to fund operations, handle fluctuations in deposit levels, respond to the credit needs of borrowers, and to take advantage of investment opportunities as they arise.
The Company’s principal operating sources of liquidity include (see “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data – Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows” of the Company’s 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K) cash and cash equivalents, cash provided by operating activities, principal payments on loans, proceeds from the maturity or sale of investments, and growth in deposits. To supplement these operating sources of funds the Company maintains Federal Funds credit lines of $61.0 million and repurchase lines of $100.0 million with major banks. As of March 31, 2013 the Company has additional borrowing capacity of $313.1 million with the Federal Home Loan Bank and $306.8 million with the Federal Reserve Bank. Borrowings under these lines are collateralized with loans or securities that have been accepted for pledging at the FHLB and FRB.
At March 31, 2013, the Company had available sources of liquidity, which included cash and cash equivalents and unpledged investment securities available-for-sale of approximately $311 million, which represents 15.99% of total assets.
The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information is recorded and reported in all filings of financial reports. Such information is reported to the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and its Chief Financial Officer to allow timely and accurate disclosure based on the definition of “disclosure controls and procedures” in Rule 13a-15(e). In designing these controls and procedures, management recognizes that they can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. Management also evaluated the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.
As of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of Company’s disclosure controls and procedures under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer and other senior management of the Company. The evaluation was based, in part, upon reports and affidavits provided by a number of executives. Based on the foregoing, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
There have been no significant changes in the Company’s internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect the internal controls over financial reporting subsequent to the date the Company completed its evaluation.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Certain lawsuits and claims arising in the ordinary course of business have been filed or are pending against the Company or its subsidiaries. Based upon information available to the Company, its review of such lawsuits and claims and consultation with its counsel, the Company believes the liability relating to these actions, if any, would not have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial statements.
There are no material proceedings adverse to the Company to which any director, officer or affiliate of the Company is a party.
See “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in the Company’s 2012 Annual Report to Shareholders on Form 10-K. In management’s opinion, there have been no material changes in risk factors since the filing of the 2012 Form 10-K.
There were no shares repurchased by Farmers & Merchants Bancorp during the first quarter of 2013. The remaining dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the Company’s Stock Repurchase Plan is approximately $20.0 million.
The common stock of Farmers & Merchants Bancorp is not widely held nor listed on any exchange. However, trades may be reported on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol “FMCB.” Additionally, management is aware that there are private transactions in the Company’s common stock.
Not applicable
Not applicable
None
See “Index to Exhibits”
Pursuant to the requirement 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.
|
FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANCORP
|
|
|
|
|
Date: May 9, 2013
|
/s/ Kent A. Steinwert
|
|
|
Kent A. Steinwert
|
|
|
Chairman, President
|
|
|
& Chief Executive Officer
|
|
|
(Principal Executive Officer)
|
|
|
|
|
Date: May 9, 2013
|
/s/ Stephen W. Haley
|
|
|
Stephen W. Haley
|
|
|
Executive Vice President and
|
|
|
Chief Financial Officer
|
|
|
(Principal Financial & Accounting Officer)
|
|
Exhibit No.
|
|
Description
|
|
|
|
|
|
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
|
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
|
Certifications of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
101.INS
|
|
XBRL Instance Document
|
101.SCH
|
|
XBRL Schema Document
|
101.CAL
|
|
XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document
|
101.LAB
|
|
XBRL Label Linkbase Document
|
101.PRE
|
|
XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document
|
101.DEF
|
|
XBRL Definition Linkbase Document
|
57