Edgar Filing: FIRST MERCHANTS CORP

Derivatives Not Designated as
Hedging Instruments under
FASB ASC 815-10

Location of Gain (Loss)
Recognized Income on
Derivative

Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized Income on
Derivative

Three Months Ended
March 31, 2014

Interest rate contracts

Other income

FRME Q1 2014

FORM 10-Q

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

___________________

[x] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2014

[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Transition Period from _______ to _______

Commission File Number 0-17071

FIRST MERCHANTS CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Indiana 35-1544218

(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization) Identification No.)

200 East Jackson Street, Muncie, IN 47305-2814

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code): (765) 747-1500

Not Applicable

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year,

if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes [X] No [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one): Large accelerated filer [ ] Accelerated filer [X] Non-accelerated filer [ ] (Do not check if smaller reporting company) Smaller reporting company [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [ ] No [X]

As of April 30, 2014, there were 36,023,964 outstanding common shares of the registrant.

Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FIRST MERCHANTS CORPORATION



Part I. Financial Information		Page No.
Item 1.	Financial Statements:
	Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets	3
	Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income	4
	Consolidated Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income	5
	Consolidated Condensed Statement of Stockholders' Equity	6
	Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows	7
	Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements	8
Item 2.	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	35
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	45
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	46

Part II. Other Information
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	47
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	47
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	47
Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	47
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	47
Item 5.	Other Information	47
Item 6.	Exhibits	48
	Signatures	49
	Index to Exhibits	50

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS



	March 31, 2014			December 31, 2013
	(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$	112,920		$	109,434
Interest-bearing time deposits	37,078			55,069
Investment securities available for sale	605,507			536,201
Investment securities held to maturity (fair value of $551,621 and $560,847)	544,470			559,378
Mortgage loans held for sale	6,586			5,331
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses of $69,583 and $67,870	3,547,044			3,564,539
Premises and equipment	74,847			74,454
Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank stock	38,990			38,990
Interest receivable	18,001			18,672
Core deposit intangibles	13,227			13,818
Goodwill	188,948			188,948
Cash surrender value of life insurance	165,320			164,571
Other real estate owned	21,077			22,246
Tax asset, deferred and receivable	50,684			56,614
Other assets	28,237			28,997
TOTAL ASSETS	$	5,452,936		$	5,437,262
LIABILITIES
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing	$	936,741		$	930,772
Interest-bearing	3,346,438			3,300,696
Total Deposits	4,283,179			4,231,468
Borrowings:
Federal funds purchased	48,357			125,645
Securities sold under repurchase agreements	137,381			148,672
Federal Home Loan Bank advances	170,887			122,140
Subordinated debentures and term loans	127,172			126,807
Total Borrowings	483,797			523,264
Interest payable	3,192			1,771
Other liabilities	30,657			45,836
Total Liabilities	4,800,825			4,802,339
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Cumulative Preferred Stock, $1,000 par value, $1,000 liquidation value:
Authorized - 600 shares
Issued and outstanding - 125 shares	125			125
Common Stock, $.125 stated value:
Authorized - 50,000,000 shares
Issued and outstanding - 36,014,083 and 35,921,761 shares	4,502			4,490
Additional paid-in capital	393,765			393,783
Retained earnings	254,735			242,935
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,016		)	(6,410		)
Total Stockholders' Equity	652,111			634,923
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	$	5,452,936		$	5,437,262

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(Unaudited)



	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2014		2013
INTEREST INCOME
Loans receivable:
Taxable	$	42,025	$	37,159
Tax exempt	61		117
Investment securities:
Taxable	4,810		3,618
Tax exempt	3,438		2,454
Deposits with financial institutions	23		19
Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank stock	652		371
Total Interest Income	51,009		43,738
INTEREST EXPENSE
Deposits	2,549		2,891
Federal funds purchased	49		11
Securities sold under repurchase agreements	196		194
Federal Home Loan Bank advances	682		459
Subordinated debentures and term loans	1,641		725
Total Interest Expense	5,117		4,280
NET INTEREST INCOME	45,892		39,458
Provision for loan losses			2,102
NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES	45,892		37,356
OTHER INCOME
Service charges on deposit accounts	3,551		2,729
Fiduciary activities	2,212		2,107
Other customer fees	3,733		2,780
Commission income	2,268		2,172
Earnings on cash surrender value of life insurance	748		700
Net gains and fees on sales of loans	723		2,378
Net realized gains on sales of available for sale securities	581		248
Other income	1,370		763
Total Other Income	15,186		13,877
OTHER EXPENSES
Salaries and employee benefits	25,301		20,791
Net occupancy	3,938		2,602
Equipment	2,739		1,774
Marketing	769		467
Outside data processing fees	1,831		1,480
Printing and office supplies	458		331
Core deposit amortization	592		387
FDIC assessments	1,060		744
Other real estate owned and credit-related expenses	1,757		1,866
Professional and other outside services	1,379		1,659
Other expenses	3,265		2,599
Total Other Expenses	43,089		34,700
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX	17,989		16,533
Income tax expense	4,369		4,668
NET INCOME	13,620		11,865
Preferred stock dividends			(857		)
NET INCOME AVAILABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS	$	13,620	$	11,008
Per Share Data:
Basic Net Income Available to Common Stockholders	$	0.38	$	0.38
Diluted Net Income Available to Common Stockholders	$	0.38	$	0.38
Cash Dividends Paid	$	0.05	$	0.03
Average Diluted Shares Outstanding (in thousands)	36,261		28,971

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)



	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2014			2013
Net income	$	13,620		$	11,865
Other comprehensive income net of tax:
Unrealized holding gain (loss) on securities available for sale arising during the period, net of tax of $2,804 and $1,139	5,207			(2,115		)
Unrealized gain on securities available for sale for which a portion of an other than temporary impairment has been recognized in income, net of tax of $627 and $39	1,164			72
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges arising during the period, net of tax of $443 and $104	(823		)	193
Amortization of items previously recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax of $345				640
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income, net of tax of $83 and $21	(154		)	(39		)
	5,394			(1,249		)
Comprehensive income	$	19,014		$	10,616

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Unaudited)



	Preferred			Common Stock					Additional						Accumulated Other
	Shares	Amount		Shares		Amount			Paid in Capital			Retained Earnings			Comprehensive Loss			Total
Balances, December 31, 2013	125	$	125	35,921,761		$	4,490		$	393,783		$	242,935		$	(6,410	)	$	634,923
Comprehensive Income
Net Income												13,620						13,620
Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax															5,394			5,394
Cash Dividends on Common Stock ($.05 per Share)												(1,820		)				(1,820		)
Share-based Compensation				105,509		13			492									505
Stock Issued under Employee Benefit Plans				7,253		1			132									133
Stock Issued under Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan				4,234		1			95									96
Stock Options Exercised				25,050		3			300									303
Stock Redeemed				(49,724	)	(6		)	(1,037		)							(1,043		)
Balances, March 31, 2014	125	$	125	36,014,083		$	4,502		$	393,765		$	254,735		$	(1,016	)	$	652,111

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)



	March 31,
	2014			2013
Cash Flow From Operating Activities:
Net income	$	13,620		$	11,865
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provision for loan losses				2,102
Depreciation and amortization	1,493			1,069
Change in deferred taxes	5,778			5,574
Share-based compensation	505			374
Tax benefit from stock options exercised	(30		)
Mortgage loans originated for sale	(29,078		)	(92,411		)
Proceeds from sales of mortgage loans	27,823			88,156
Gains on sales of securities available for sale	(581		)	(248		)
Change in interest receivable	671			1,021
Change in interest payable	1,421			(493		)
Other adjustments	(15,038		)	(5,168		)
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	6,584		$	11,841
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Net change in interest-bearing deposits	$	17,991		$	(21,964	)
Purchases of:
Securities available for sale	(84,844		)	(73,470		)
Securities held to maturity	(67		)
Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale	9,053			21,721
Proceeds from maturities of:
Securities available for sale	13,475			31,542
Securities held to maturity	14,548			23,628
Change in Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank stock				8
Net change in loans	15,089			16,561
Proceeds from the sale of other real estate owned	2,675			2,536
Other adjustments	(566		)	(2,082		)
Net cash used in investing activities	$	(12,646	)	$	(1,520	)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in :
Demand and savings deposits	$	(27,047	)	$	3,062
Certificates of deposit and other time deposits	78,758			(38,637		)
Borrowings	150,000			19,985
Repayment of borrowings	(189,832		)	(19,931		)
Cash dividends on common stock	(1,820		)	(875		)
Cash dividends on preferred stock				(857		)
Stock issued under employee benefit plans	133			155
Stock issued under dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plans	96			63
Stock options exercised	273			16
Tax benefit from stock options exercised	30
Stock redeemed	(1,043		)	(474		)
Cumulative preferred stock redeemed (SBLF)				(22,696		)
Net cash provided (used in) by financing activities	$	9,548		$	(60,189	)
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents	3,486			(49,868		)
Cash and Cash Equivalents, January 1	109,434			101,460
Cash and Cash Equivalents, March 31	$	112,920		$	51,592
Additional cash flow information:
Interest paid	$	3,696		$	4,773
Income tax paid	$	1,200		$	104
Loans transferred to other real estate owned	$	1,087		$	3,175
Non-cash investing activities using trade date accounting	$	2,374		$	4,489

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

NOTE 1

GENERAL

Financial Statement Preparation

The significant accounting policies followed by First Merchants Corporation (the “Corporation”) and its wholly owned subsidiaries for interim financial reporting are consistent with the accounting policies followed for annual financial reporting. All adjustments, which are of a normal recurring nature and are in the opinion of management necessary for a fair statement of the results for the periods reported, have been included in the accompanying consolidated condensed financial statements.

The consolidated condensed balance sheet of the Corporation as of December 31, 2013, has been derived from the audited consolidated balance sheet of the Corporation as of that date. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in the Corporation’s annual financial statements, prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, have been condensed or omitted. These consolidated condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Corporation’s Form 10-K annual report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2014, are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year.

NOTE 2

BUSINESS COMBINATION

On November 12, 2013, the Corporation acquired 100 percent of CFS Bancorp, Inc. ("CFS") in an all stock transaction. CFS was headquartered in Munster, Indiana and had 20 full-service banking centers serving the northwestern Indiana and northeastern Illinois areas. Pursuant to the merger agreement, the shareholders of CFS received 0.65 percent of the Corporation's common stock for each share of CFS common stock held. The Corporation issued approximately 7.1 million shares of common stock, which was valued at approximately $135.6 million.

The Corporation engaged in this transaction with the expectation that it would be accretive and add a new market area with a demographic profile consistent with many of the current Indiana markets served by the Bank. Goodwill resulted from this transaction due to the expected synergies from combining operations.

Under the acquisition method of accounting, the total purchase price is allocated to CFS's net tangible and intangible assets based on their current estimated fair values on the date of the acquisition. Based on valuations of the fair value of tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, the purchase price for the CFS acquisition was allocated as follows:



	Fair Value
Cash and cash equivalents	$	10,992
Interest-bearing time deposits	213,379
Investment securities available for sale	15,913
Investment securities held to maturity	14,372
Mortgage loans held for sale	189
Loans	603,114
Premises and equipment	19,643
Federal Home Loan Bank stock	6,188
Interest receivable	1,770
Cash surrender value of life insurance	36,555
Other real estate owned	12,857
Tax asset, deferred and receivable	30,717
Other assets	111,656
Deposits	(955,432		)
Securities sold under repurchase agreements	(9,830		)
Federal Home Loan Bank advances	(15,000		)
Interest payable	(294		)
Other liabilities	(16,033		)
Net tangible assets acquired	80,756
Core deposit intangible	7,313
Goodwill	47,573
Purchase price	$	135,642

Of the total purchase price, $7,313,000 has been allocated to a core deposit intangible that will be amortized over its estimated life of 10 years. The remaining purchase price has been allocated to goodwill, which is not deductible for tax purposes.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The Corporation had one-time expenses related to the CFS acquisition and the integration of their core system of $1.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014. The majority of expense was in salary and employee benefits related to employees retained through integration of $523,000, equipment expenses of $480,000 primarily related to running CFS' core system prior to integration and marketing expenses of $122,000 due to mailings to current CFS customers during the integration time frame.

NOTE 3

INVESTMENT SECURITIES

The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses and approximate fair values of the investment securities at the dates indicated were:



	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
Available for sale at March 31, 2014
U.S. Treasury	$	15,918	$	79	$	14	$	15,983
U.S. Government-sponsored agency securities	3,355		27				3,382
State and municipal	244,298		6,291		1,451		249,138
U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities	326,329		4,869		661		330,537
Corporate obligations	6,361		428		2,028		4,761
Equity securities	1,706						1,706
Total available for sale	597,967		11,694		4,154		605,507
Held to maturity at March 31, 2014
State and municipal	144,787		1,977		28		146,736
U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities	399,683		6,844		1,642		404,885
Total held to maturity	544,470		8,821		1,670		551,621
Total Investment Securities	$	1,142,437	$	20,515	$	5,824	$	1,157,128



	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value
Available for sale at December 31, 2013
U.S. Treasury	$	15,914	$	80	$	21	$	15,973
U.S. Government-sponsored agency securities	3,550		12		17		3,545
State and municipal	231,005		3,878		3,896		230,987
U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities	279,299		3,926		1,973		281,252
Corporate obligations	6,374				3,636		2,738
Equity securities	1,706						1,706
Total available for sale	537,848		7,896		9,543		536,201
Held to maturity at December 31, 2013
State and municipal	145,941		62		91		145,912
U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities	413,437		5,220		3,722		414,935
Total held to maturity	559,378		5,282		3,813		560,847
Total Investment Securities	$	1,097,226	$	13,178	$	13,356	$	1,097,048

The amortized cost and fair value of available for sale securities and held to maturity securities at March 31, 2014, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.



	Available for Sale				Held to Maturity
	Amortized Cost		Fair Value		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Maturity Distribution at March 31, 2014:
Due in one year or less	$	11,621	$	11,769	$	3,867	$	3,867
Due after one through five years	27,954		28,496		17,378		17,633
Due after five through ten years	47,657		48,830		78,688		79,407
Due after ten years	182,700		184,169		44,854		45,829
	$	269,932	$	273,264	$	144,787	$	146,736
U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities	326,329		330,537		399,683		404,885
Equity securities	1,706		1,706
Total Investment Securities	$	597,967	$	605,507	$	544,470	$	551,621

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The carrying value of securities pledged as collateral, to secure public deposits and for other purposes, was $376,742,000 at March 31, 2014, and $373,533,000 at December 31, 2013.

The book value of securities sold under agreements to repurchase amounted to $131,366,000 at March 31, 2014, and $126,900,000 at December 31, 2013.

Gross gains and losses on the sales and redemptions of available for sale securities, and other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses recognized for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 are shown below.



	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2014		2013
Sales and Redemptions of Available for Sale Securities:
Gross gains	$	581	$	248
Gross losses
Other-than-temporary impairment losses

The following table shows the Corporation’s investments’ gross unrealized losses and fair value, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013:



	Less than 12 Months				12 Months or Longer				Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
Temporarily Impaired Investment
Securities at March 31, 2014
U.S. Treasury	$	4,889	$	14					$	4,889	$	14
State and municipal	59,027		1,410		$	1,028	$	69	60,055		1,479
U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities	255,204		1,762		14,098		541		269,302		2,303
Corporate obligations					3,190		2,028		3,190		2,028
Total Temporarily Impaired Investment Securities	$	319,120	$	3,186	$	18,316	$	2,638	$	337,436	$	5,824



	Less than 12 Months				12 Months or Longer				Total
	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
Temporarily Impaired Investment
Securities at December 31, 2013
U.S. Treasury	$	4,875	$	21					$	4,875	$	21
U.S. Government-sponsored agency securities	3,433		17						3,433		17
State and municipal	129,109		3,931		$	767	$	56	129,876		3,987
U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities	330,914		5,163		5,323		532		336,237		5,695
Corporate obligations					2,711		3,636		2,711		3,636
Total Temporarily Impaired Investment Securities	$	468,331	$	9,132	$	8,801	$	4,224	$	477,132	$	13,356

Certain investments in debt and equity securities are reported in the financial statements at an amount less than their historical cost as indicated in the table below.



	March 31, 2014			December 31, 2013
Investments reported at less than historical cost:
Historical cost	$	343,258		$	490,488
Fair value	$	337,436		$	477,132
Percent of the Corporation's available for sale and held to maturity portfolio	29.3		%	43.6		%

The Corporation’s management has evaluated all securities with unrealized losses for other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI") as of March 31, 2014. The evaluations are based on the nature of the securities, the extent and duration of the loss and the intent and ability of the Corporation to hold these securities either to maturity or through the expected recovery period.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The current unrealized losses are primarily concentrated within trust preferred securities held by the Corporation. Such investments have an amortized cost of $6.4 million and a fair value of $4.8 million, which is less than 1 percent of the Corporation’s entire investment portfolio. On all but one small pool investment, the Corporation utilized Moody's to determine their fair value.

In determining the fair value of the trust preferred securities, the Corporation utilizes a third party for portfolio accounting services, including market value input. The Corporation has obtained an understanding of what inputs are being used by the vendor in pricing the portfolio and how the vendor was classifying these securities based upon these inputs. From these discussions, the Corporation’s management is comfortable that the classifications are proper. The Corporation has gained trust in the data for two reasons: (a) independent spot testing of the data is conducted by the Corporation through obtaining market quotes from various brokers on a periodic basis and (b) actual gains or loss resulting from the sale of certain securities has proven the data to be accurate over time.

Discount rates used in the OTTI cash flow analysis on these variable rate securities were those margins in effect at the inception of the security added to the appropriate three-month LIBOR spot rate obtained from the forward LIBOR curve used to project future principal and interest payments. These spreads ranged from .85 percent to 1.57 percent spread over LIBOR.

Management believes the declines in fair value for these securities are temporary. Should any additional impairment of any of these securities become other than temporary, the cost basis of the investment will be reduced and the resulting loss recognized in net income in the period the OTTI is identified.

U.S. Government-Sponsored Mortgage-Backed Securities

The unrealized losses on the Corporation’s investment in U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities were a result of changes in interest rates. The Corporation expects to recover the amortized cost basis over the term of the securities as the decline in market value is attributable to changes in interest rates and not credit quality. The Corporation does not intend to sell the investment and it is not more likely than not that the Corporation will be required to sell the investment before recovery of its new, lower amortized cost basis, which may be maturity. The Corporation does not consider the investment securities to be other-than-temporarily impaired at March 31, 2014.

State and Municipal

The unrealized losses on the Corporation’s investments in securities of state and political subdivisions were caused by changes in interest rates. The contractual terms of those investments do not permit the issuer to settle the securities at a price less than the amortized cost basis of the investments. The Corporation does not intend to sell the investment and it is not more likely than not that the Corporation will be required to sell the investment before recovery of its new, lower amortized cost basis, which may be maturity. The Corporation does not consider the investment securities to be other-than-temporarily impaired at March 31, 2014.

Corporate Obligations

The Corporation’s unrealized losses on Corporate Obligations were due to the decline in value related to the pooled trust preferred securities, and is attributable to temporary illiquidity and the financial crisis affecting these markets, coupled with the potential credit loss resulting from the adverse change in expected cash flows. Due to the illiquidity in the market, it is unlikely that the Corporation would be able to recover its investment in these securities if the Corporation sold the securities at this time. Management has analyzed the cash flow characteristics of the securities and this analysis included utilizing the most recent trustee reports and any other relevant market information, including announcements of deferrals or defaults of trust preferred securities. The Corporation compared expected discounted cash flows, based on performance indicators of the underlying assets in the security, to the carrying value of the investment to determine if OTTI existed. The Corporation does not intend to sell the investment, and it is not more likely than not that the Corporation will be required to sell the investment before recovery of its new, lower amortized cost basis, which may be maturity. The Corporation does not consider the remainder of the investment securities, which are classified as Level 3 inputs in the fair value hierarchy, to be other-than-temporarily impaired at March 31, 2014.

Credit Losses Recognized on Investments

Certain corporate obligations have experienced fair value deterioration due to credit losses and other market factors. The following table provides information about those securities for which only a credit loss was recognized in income and other losses were recorded in other comprehensive income.



	Accumulated Credit Losses in 2014		Accumulated Credit Losses in 2013
Credit losses on debt securities held:
Balance, January 1	$	11,355	$	11,355
Additions related to other-than-temporary losses not previously recognized
Balance, March 31	$	11,355	$	11,355

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

NOTE 4

LOANS AND ALLOWANCE

The Corporation’s primary lending focus is small business and middle market commercial, commercial real estate, residential real estate, auto and small consumer lending, which results in portfolio diversification. The following tables show the composition in the loan portfolio, the allowance for loan losses and certain credit quality elements, all excluding loans held for sale. Residential real estate loans held for sale as of March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013, were $6,586,000 and $5,331,000, respectively.

The following table shows the composition of the Corporation’s loan portfolio by loan class for the periods indicated:



	March 31, 2014			December 31, 2013
Commercial and industrial loans	$	787,390		$	761,705
Agricultural production financing and other loans to farmers	99,226			114,348
Real estate loans:
Construction	155,117			177,082
Commercial and farmland	1,606,735			1,611,809
Residential	626,202			616,385
Home Equity	256,790			255,223
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures	61,742			69,783
Lease financing receivables, net of unearned income	1,378			1,545
Other loans	22,047			24,529
Loans	$	3,616,627		$	3,632,409
Allowance for loan losses	(69,583		)	(67,870		)
Net Loans	$	3,547,044		$	3,564,539

Purchased Loans

On February 10, 2012, First Merchants Bank, N.A. (the "Bank") assumed $113.0 million in loans as part of a Purchase and Assumption Agreement. This loan portfolio was acquired at a fair value discount of $19.2 million.

On November 12, 2013, the Corporation acquired all of the assets of CFS Bancorp, Inc. as discussed in NOTE 2. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS included in the Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements of this Form 10-Q. The acquired assets included $639.6 million in loans which were acquired at a fair value discount of $36.5 million.

In conformance with ASC 805 and ASC 820, loans purchased after December 31, 2008 are recorded at the acquisition date fair value. Such loans are only included in the allowance to the extent a specific impairment is identified that exceeds the fair value adjustment on an impaired loan or the historical loss and environmental factor analysis indicates losses inherent in a purchased portfolio exceeds the fair value adjustment on the portion of the purchased portfolio not deemed impaired.

Allowance, Credit Quality and Loan Portfolio

The Corporation maintains an allowance for loan losses to cover probable credit losses identified during its loan review process. Management believes the allowance for loan losses is appropriate to cover probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio at March 31, 2014. The process for determining the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is critical to the Corporation’s financial results. It requires management to make difficult, subjective and complex judgments, to estimate the effect of uncertain matters. The allowance for loan losses considers current factors, including economic conditions and ongoing internal and external examinations, and will increase or decrease as deemed necessary to ensure the allowance remains adequate. In addition, the allowance as a percentage of charge offs and nonperforming loans will change at different points in time based on credit performance, loan mix and collateral values.

The allowance is increased by the provision for loan losses and decreased by charge offs less recoveries. All charge offs are approved by the Bank’s senior loan officers or loan committees, depending on the amount of the charge off. The Bank charges off a loan when a determination is made that all or a portion of the loan is uncollectible. The allowance for loan losses is maintained through the provision for loan losses, which is a charge against earnings. The amount provided for loan losses in a given period may be greater than or less than net loan losses experienced during the period, and is based on management’s judgment as to the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses. The determination of the provision amount in a given period is based on management’s ongoing review and evaluation of the loan portfolio, including an internally administered loan "watch" list and independent loan reviews. The evaluation takes into consideration identified credit problems, the possibility of losses inherent in the loan portfolio that are not specifically identified and management’s judgment as to the impact of the current environment and economic conditions on the portfolio.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The allowance consists of specific impairment reserves as required by ASC 310-10-35, a component for historical losses in accordance with ASC 450 and the consideration of current environmental factors in accordance with ASC 450. A loan is deemed impaired when, based on current information or events, it is probable that all amounts due of principal and interest according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement will not be collected.

The historical loss allocation for loans not deemed impaired according to ASC 310 is the product of the volume of loans within the non-impaired criticized and non-criticized risk grade classifications, each segmented by call code, and the historical loss factor for each respective classification and call code segment. The historical loss factors are based upon actual loss experience within each risk and call code classification. The historical look back period for non-criticized loans looks to the most recent rolling-four-quarter average and aligns with the look back period for non-impaired criticized loans. Each of the rolling four quarter periods used to obtain the average, include all charge offs for the previous twelve-month period, therefore the historical look back period includes seven quarters. The resulting allocation is reflective of current conditions. Criticized loans are grouped based on the risk grade assigned to the loan. Loans with a special mention grade are assigned a loss factor, and loans with a classified grade but not impaired are assigned a separate loss factor. The loss factor computation for this allocation includes a segmented historical loss migration analysis of criticized risk grades to charge off.

In addition to the specific reserves and historical loss components of the allowance, consideration is given to various environmental factors to help ensure that losses inherent in the portfolio are reflected in the allowance for loan losses. The environmental component adjusts the historical loss allocations for commercial and consumer loans to reflect relevant current conditions that, in management's opinion, have an impact on loss recognition. Environmental factors that management reviews in the analysis include: national and local economic trends and conditions; trends in growth in the loan portfolio and growth in higher risk areas; levels of, and trends in, delinquencies and non-accruals; experience and depth of lending management and staff; adequacy of, and adherence to, lending policies and procedures including those for underwriting; industry concentrations of credit; and adequacy of risk identification systems and controls through the internal loan review and internal audit processes.

The following tables summarize changes in the allowance for loan losses by loan segment for the three months ended March 31, 2014, and March 31, 2013:



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
	Commercial			Commercial Real Estate			Consumer			Residential			Finance Leases			Total
Allowance for loan losses:
Balances, January 1	$	27,176		$	23,102		$	2,515		$	15,077					$	67,870
Provision for losses	2,387			(1,257		)	(12		)	(1,098		)	$	(20	)
Recoveries on loans	2,050			790			136			604			20			3,600
Loans charged off	(706		)	(277		)	(229		)	(675		)				(1,887		)
Balances, March 31, 2014	$	30,907		$	22,358		$	2,410		$	13,908					$	69,583



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	Commercial			Commercial Real Estate			Consumer			Residential			Finance Leases		Total
Allowance for loan losses:
Balances, January 1	$	25,913		$	26,703		$	2,593		$	14,157				$	69,366
Provision for losses	358			(755		)	73			2,406			$	20	2,102
Recoveries on loans	1,873			1,376			209			288					3,746
Loans charged off	(2,773		)	(2,346		)	(186		)	(1,372		)			(6,677		)
Balances, March 31, 2013	$	25,371		$	24,978		$	2,689		$	15,479		$	20	$	68,537

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The following tables show the Corporation’s allowance for credit losses and loan portfolio by loan segment as of the periods indicated:



	March 31, 2014
	Commercial		Commercial Real Estate		Consumer		Residential		Finance Leases		Total
Allowance Balances:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	556	$	795							$	1,351
Collectively evaluated for impairment	30,004		21,467		$	2,410	$	13,908			67,789
Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality	347		96								443
Total Allowance for Loan Losses	$	30,907	$	22,358	$	2,410	$	13,908			$	69,583
Loan Balances:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	10,422	$	28,864			$	2,834			$	42,120
Collectively evaluated for impairment	890,590		1,665,466		$	61,742	878,473		$	1,378	3,497,649
Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality	7,651		67,522				1,685				76,858
Loans	$	908,663	$	1,761,852	$	61,742	$	882,992	$	1,378	$	3,616,627



	December 31, 2013
	Commercial		Commercial Real Estate		Consumer		Residential		Finance Leases		Total
Allowance Balances:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	585	$	763			$	6			$	1,354
Collectively evaluated for impairment	26,493		22,208		$	2,515	15,071				66,287
Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality	98		131								229
Total Allowance for Loan Losses	$	27,176	$	23,102	$	2,515	$	15,077			$	67,870
Loan Balances:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	10,240	$	29,007			$	2,820			$	42,067
Collectively evaluated for impairment	882,794		1,690,285		$	69,783	867,094		$	1,545	3,511,501
Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality	7,548		69,599				1,694				78,841
Loans	$	900,582	$	1,788,891	$	69,783	$	871,608	$	1,545	$	3,632,409

The risk characteristics of the Corporation’s material portfolio segments are as follows:

Commercial

Commercial loans are primarily based on the identified cash flows of the borrower and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. The cash flows of borrowers, however, may not be as expected and the collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value. Most commercial loans are secured by the assets being financed or other business assets such as accounts receivable or inventory and may incorporate a personal guarantee; however, some short-term loans may be made on an unsecured basis. In the case of loans secured by accounts receivable, the availability of funds for the repayment of these loans may be substantially dependent on the ability of the borrower to collect amounts due from its customers.

Commercial real estate

These loans are viewed primarily as cash flow loans and secondarily as loans secured by real estate. Commercial real estate lending typically involves higher loan principal amounts and the repayment of these loans is generally dependent on the successful operation of the property securing the loan or the business conducted on the property securing the loan. Commercial real estate loans may be more adversely affected by conditions in the real estate markets or in the general economy. Management monitors and evaluates commercial real estate loans based on collateral and risk grade criteria. In addition, management tracks the level of owner-occupied commercial real estate loans versus non-owner occupied loans.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

Residential and Consumer

With respect to residential loans that are secured by 1-4 family residences and are generally owner occupied, the Corporation generally establishes a maximum loan-to-value ratio and requires private mortgage insurance if that ratio is exceeded. Home equity loans are typically secured by a subordinate interest in 1-4 family residences, and consumer loans are secured by consumer assets such as automobiles or recreational vehicles. Some consumer loans are unsecured such as small installment loans and certain lines of credit. Repayment of these loans is primarily dependent on the personal income and credit rating of the borrowers, which can be impacted by economic conditions in their market areas such as unemployment levels. Repayment can also be impacted by changes in property values on residential properties. Risk is mitigated by the fact that the loans are of smaller individual amounts and spread over a large number of borrowers.

Loans are reclassified to a non-accruing status when, in management’s judgment, the collateral value and financial condition of the borrower do not justify accruing interest. Interest previously recorded, but not deemed collectible, is reversed and charged against current income. Payments subsequently received on non-accrual loans are applied to principal. A loan is returned to accrual status when principal and interest are no longer past due and collectability is probable, typically after a minimum of six consecutive months of performance. Payments received on impaired accruing or delinquent loans are applied to interest income as accrued.

The following table summarizes the Corporation’s non-accrual loans by loan class as of the periods indicated:



	March 31, 2014		December 31, 2013
Commercial and industrial loans	$	8,558	$	9,283
Agriculture production financing and other loans to farmers	28		30
Real estate Loans:
Construction	3,072		4,978
Commercial and farmland	28,598		28,095
Residential	12,938		12,068
Home Equity	2,351		1,667
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures	141		117
Lease financing receivables, net of unearned income
Other Loans			164
Total	$	55,686	$	56,402

Commercial impaired loans include all non-accrual loans, loans accounted for under ASC 310-30 and renegotiated loans, as well as substandard, doubtful and loss grade loans that were still accruing but deemed impaired according to guidance set forth in ASC 310. Also included in impaired loans are accruing loans that are contractually past due 90 days or more and troubled debt restructurings.

Allowable methods for determining the amount of impairment include estimating fair value using the fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans. If the impaired loan is identified as collateral dependent, then the fair value method of measuring the amount of impairment is utilized. This method requires obtaining a current independent appraisal of the collateral and applying a discount factor to the value. The fair value of real estate is generally based on appraisals by qualified licensed appraisers. The appraisers typically determine the value of the real estate by utilizing an income or market valuation approach. If an appraisal is not available, the fair value may be determined by using a cash flow analysis. Fair value on other collateral such as business assets is typically ascertained by assessing, either singularly or some combination of, asset appraisals, accounts receivable aging reports, inventory listings and or customer financial statements. Both appraised values and values based on borrower’s financial information are discounted as considered appropriate based on age and quality of the information and current market conditions.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The following tables show the composition of the Corporation’s commercial impaired loans by loan class for the periods indicated:



	March 31, 2014
	Unpaid Principal Balance		Recorded Investment		Related Allowance
Impaired loans with no related allowance:
Commercial and industrial loans	$	35,562	$	16,302
Agriculture production financing and other loans to farmers	31		28
Real estate Loans:
Construction	15,184		10,327
Commercial and farmland	115,745		80,957
Residential	6,196		3,948
Home equity	3,332		142
Other loans	40		2
Total	$	176,090	$	111,706
Impaired loans with related allowance:
Commercial and industrial loans	$	1,789	$	1,741	$	902
Real estate Loans:
Construction
Commercial and farmland	7,364		4,385		892
Residential
Total	$	9,153	$	6,126	$	1,794
Total Impaired Loans	$	185,243	$	117,832	$	1,794



	December 31, 2013
	Unpaid Principal Balance		Recorded Investment		Related Allowance
Impaired loans with no related allowance:
Commercial and industrial loans	$	35,066	$	16,371
Agricultural production finance & other loans to farmers	32		30
Real estate Loans:
Construction	16,109		10,625
Commercial and farmland	128,073		83,033
Residential	6,746		3,910
Home equity	3,299		112
Other loans	454		172
Total	$	189,779	$	114,253
Impaired loans with related allowance:
Commercial and industrial loans	$	1,390	$	1,216	$	683
Real estate Loans:
Construction
Commercial and farmland	4,657		4,215		894
Residential	74		71		6
Total	$	6,121	$	5,502	$	1,583
Total Impaired Loans	$	195,900	$	119,755	$	1,583

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
	Average Recorded Investment		Interest Income Recognized
Impaired loans with no related allowance:
Commercial and industrial loans	$	16,377	$	21
Agriculture production financing and other loans to farmers	29
Real estate Loans:
Construction	10,440		28
Commercial and farmland	81,617		243
Residential	4,146		8
Home equity	144
Other loans	6
Total	$	112,759	$	300
Impaired loans with related allowance:
Commercial and industrial loans	$	1,752	$	3
Real estate Loans:
Commercial and farmland	4,398		1
Total	$	6,150	$	4
Total Impaired Loans	$	118,909	$	304



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	Average Recorded Investment		Interest Income Recognized
Impaired loans with no related allowance:
Commercial and industrial loans	$	8,043	$	44
Agriculture production financing and other loans to farmers	86
Real estate Loans:
Construction	3,936		19
Commercial and farmland	39,228		382
Residential	4,737		22
Home equity	923		3
Other loans	10
Total	$	56,963	$	470
Impaired loans with related allowance:
Commercial and industrial loans	$	5,124	$	3
Real estate Loans:
Construction	915
Commercial and farmland	5,428
Residential	2,390
Total	$	13,857	$	3
Total Impaired Loans	$	70,820	$	473

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

As part of the ongoing monitoring of the credit quality of the Corporation's loan portfolio, management tracks certain credit quality indicators including trends related to: (i) the level of criticized commercial loans, (ii) net charge offs, (iii) non-performing loans and (iv) the general national and local economic conditions.

The Corporation utilizes a risk grading of pass, special mention, substandard, doubtful and loss to assess the overall credit quality of large commercial loans. All large commercial credit grades are reviewed at a minimum of once a year for pass grade loans. Loans with grades below pass are reviewed more frequently depending on the grade. A description of the general characteristics of these grades is as follows:


•	Pass - Loans that are considered to be of acceptable credit quality.

•

Special Mention - Loans which possess some credit deficiency or potential weakness, which deserves close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the asset or in the Corporation's credit position at some future date. Special mention assets are not adversely classified and do not expose the Corporation to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification. The key distinctions of this category's classification are that it is indicative of an unwarranted level of risk; and weaknesses are considered “potential”, not “defined”, impairments to the primary source of repayment. Examples include businesses that may be suffering from inadequate management, loss of key personnel or significant customer or litigation.

•

Substandard - A substandard loan is inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Assets so classified have a well-defined weakness that jeopardizes the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Corporation will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. Other characteristics may include:



	o	the likelihood that a loan will be paid from the primary source of repayment is uncertain or financial deterioration is underway and very close attention is warranted to ensure that the loan is collected without loss,



	o	the primary source of repayment is gone, and the Corporation is forced to rely on a secondary source of repayment, such as collateral liquidation or guarantees,



	o	loans have a distinct possibility that the Corporation will sustain some loss if deficiencies are not corrected,



	o	unusual courses of action are needed to maintain a high probability of repayment,



	o	the borrower is not generating enough cash flow to repay loan principal; however, it continues to make interest payments,



	o	the Corporation is forced into a subordinated or unsecured position due to flaws in documentation,



	o	loans have been restructured so that payment schedules, terms and collateral represent concessions to the borrower when compared to the normal loan terms,



	o	the Corporation is seriously contemplating foreclosure or legal action due to the apparent deterioration of the loan, and



	o	there is significant deterioration in market conditions to which the borrower is highly vulnerable.

•

Doubtful - Loans that have all of the weaknesses of those classified as Substandard. However, based on currently existing facts, conditions and values, these weaknesses make full collection of principal highly questionable and improbable. Other credit characteristics may include the primary source of repayment is gone or there is considerable doubt as to the quality of the secondary sources of repayment. The possibility of loss is high, but because of certain important pending factors that may strengthen the loan, loss classification is deferred until the exact status of repayment is known.


•	Loss – Loans that are considered uncollectible and of such little value that continuing to carry them as an asset is not warranted. Loans will be classified as Loss when it is neither practical not desirable to defer writing off or reserving all or a portion of a basically worthless asset, even though partial recovery may be possible at some time in the future.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The following tables summarize the credit quality of the Corporation’s loan portfolio, by loan class as for the periods indicated. Consumer non-performing loans include accruing consumer loans 90 plus days delinquent and consumer non-accrual loans. The entire balance of a loan is considered delinquent if the minimum payment contractually required to be made is not received by the specified date. Loans that evidenced deterioration of credit quality since origination and it was probable, at acquisition, that all contractually required payments would not be collected are included in the applicable categories below.



	March 31, 2014
	Commercial Pass		Commercial Special Mention		Commercial Substandard		Commercial Doubtful		Commercial Loss	Consumer Performing		Consumer Non-Performing		Total
Commercial and industrial loans	$	724,556	$	10,148	$	52,172	$	514						$	787,390
Agriculture production financing and other loans to farmers	86,358		376		12,492									99,226
Real estate Loans:
Construction	142,676		1,123		11,116							$	202	155,117
Commercial and farmland	1,466,354		50,952		89,188							241		1,606,735
Residential	147,361		2,229		9,444		136			$	455,612	11,420		626,202
Home equity	6,011		332		980					247,169		2,298		256,790
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures										61,598		144		61,742
Lease financing receivables, net of unearned income	1,256				122									1,378
Other loans	22,024				23									22,047
Loans	$	2,596,596	$	65,160	$	175,537	$	650		$	764,379	$	14,305	$	3,616,627



	December 31, 2013
	Commercial Pass		Commercial Special Mention		Commercial Substandard		Commercial Doubtful		Commercial Loss	Consumer Performing		Consumer Non-Performing		Total
Commercial and industrial loans	$	708,835	$	11,332	$	41,013	$	525						$	761,705
Agriculture production financing and other loans to farmers	114,318				30									114,348
Real estate Loans:
Construction	162,976		1,132		12,029							$	945	177,082
Commercial and farmland	1,473,714		57,676		80,184							235		1,611,809
Residential	143,657		2,232		11,494		136			$	448,494	10,372		616,385
Home equity	6,194		35		1,184					246,101		1,709		255,223
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures										69,666		117		69,783
Lease financing receivables, net of unearned income	1,420				125									1,545
Other loans	24,334				195									24,529
Loans	$	2,635,448	$	72,407	$	146,254	$	661		$	764,261	$	13,378	$	3,632,409

The following table shows a past due aging of the Corporation’s loan portfolio, by loan class as of March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013:



	March 31, 2014
	Current		30-59 Days Past Due		60-89 Days Past Due		Loans > 90 Days And Accruing		Non-Accrual		Total Past Due & Non-Accrual		Total
Commercial and industrial loans	$	776,473	$	1,933	$	426			$	8,558	$	10,917	$	787,390
Agriculture production financing and other loans to farmers	99,198								28		28		99,226
Real estate Loans:
Construction	151,645		400						3,072		3,472		155,117
Commercial and farmland	1,561,328		10,941		4,700		$	1,168	28,598		45,407		1,606,735
Residential	608,917		3,236		663		448		12,938		17,285		626,202
Home equity	252,734		932		684		89		2,351		4,056		256,790
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures	61,216		340		41		4		141		526		61,742
Lease financing receivables, net of unearned income	1,378												1,378
Other loans	22,046		1								1		22,047
Loans	$	3,534,935	$	17,783	$	6,514	$	1,709	$	55,686	$	81,692	$	3,616,627

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)



	December 31, 2013
	Current		30-59 Days Past Due		60-89 Days Past Due		Loans > 90 Days And Accruing		Non-Accrual		Total Past Due & Non-Accrual		Total
Commercial and industrial loans	$	749,020	$	2,628	$	774			$	9,283	$	12,685	$	761,705
Agriculture production financing and other loans to farmers	114,305		13						30		43		114,348
Real estate Loans:
Construction	171,046		1,058						4,978		6,036		177,082
Commercial and farmland	1,573,403		3,807		5,801		$	703	28,095		38,406		1,611,809
Residential	595,192		7,156		1,475		494		12,068		21,193		616,385
Home equity	251,188		1,652		563		153		1,667		4,035		255,223
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures	69,061		550		55				117		722		69,783
Lease financing receivables, net of unearned income	1,545												1,545
Other loans	24,365								164		164		24,529
Loans	$	3,549,125	$	16,864	$	8,668	$	1,350	$	56,402	$	83,284	$	3,632,409

See the information regarding the analysis of loan loss experience in the "LOAN QUALITY/PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES" section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included as ITEM 2 of this Form 10-Q.

On occasion, borrower experience declines in income and cash flow. As a result, these borrowers seek to reduce contractual cash outlays including debt payments. Concurrently, in an effort to preserve and protect its earning assets, specifically troubled loans, the Corporation is working to maintain its relationship with certain customers who are experiencing financial difficulty by contractually modifying the borrower's debt agreement with the Corporation. In certain loan restructuring situations, the Corporation may grant a concession to a debtor experiencing financial difficulty, resulting in a trouble debt restructuring. A concession is deemed to be granted when, as a result of the restructuring, the Corporation does not expect to collect all amounts due, including interest accrued at the original contract rate. If the payment of principal at original maturity is primarily dependent on the value of collateral, the current value of the collateral is considered in determining whether the principal will be paid.

The following tables summarize troubled debt restructurings that occurred during the periods indicated:



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
	Pre-Modification Recorded Balance		Post-Modification Recorded Balance		Number of Loans
Real estate Loans:
Residential	$	131	$	134	3
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures	15		15		1
Total	$	146	$	149	4



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	Pre-Modification Recorded Balance		Post-Modification Recorded Balance		Number of Loans
Commercial and industrial loans	$	96	$	96	3
Real estate Loans:
Commercial and farmland	511		431		2
Residential	37		38		1
Total	$	644	$	565	6

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The following tables show the recorded investment of troubled debt restructurings, by modification type, that occurred during the periods indicated:



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
	Term Modification	Rate Modification		Combination		Total Modification
Real estate Loans:
Residential		$	134			$	134
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures				$	15	15
Total		$	134	$	15	$	149



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	Term Modification		Rate Modification	Combination		Total Modification
Commercial and industrial loans	$	31		$	69	$	100
Real estate Loans:
Commercial and farmland				415		415
Residential				37		37
Total	$	31		$	521	$	552

Loans secured by residential real estate made up 90 percent of the post-modification balance of troubled debt restructured loans made in the three months ended March 31, 2014.

The following tables summarize troubled debt restructures that occurred during the twelve months ended March 31, 2014, and March 31, 2013, that subsequently defaulted during the period indicated and remained in default at period end. For purposes of this schedule, a loan is considered in default if it is 30 or more days past due.



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
	Number of Loans	Recorded Balance
Commercial and industrial loans	1	$	146
Real estate Loans:
Residential	1	57
Total	2	$	203



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	Number of Loans	Recorded Balance
Commercial and industrial loans	1	$	5
Real estate Loans:
Commercial and farmland	1	230
Residential	1	47
Total	3	$	282

For potential consumer loan restructures, impairment evaluation occurs prior to modification. Any subsequent impairment is typically addressed through the charge off process, or may be addressed through a specific reserve. Consumer troubled debt restructurings are generally included in the general historical allowance for loan loss at the post modification balance. Consumer non-accrual and delinquent troubled debt restructurings are also considered in the calculation of the non-accrual and delinquency trend environmental allowance allocation. Commercial troubled debt restructured loans risk graded special mention, substandard, doubtful and loss are individually evaluated for impairment under ASC 310. Any resulting specific reserves are included in the allowance for loan losses. Commercial 30 - 89 day delinquent troubled debt restructurings are included in the calculation of the delinquency trend environmental allowance allocation. All commercial non-impaired loans, including non-accrual and 90+ day delinquents, are included in the ASC 450 loss migration analysis.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

NOTE 5

ACCOUNTING FOR CERTAIN LOANS ACQUIRED IN A PURCHASE

The following table includes the outstanding balance and carrying amount of loans acquired during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, which are included in the balance sheet amounts of loans receivable at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.



	March 31, 2014						December 31, 2013
	CFS		SCB		Total		CFS		SCB		Total
Commercial and industrial loans	$	77,480	$	7,839	$	85,319	$	81,303	$	8,184	$	89,487
Agricultural production financing and other loans to farmers			941		941				1,161		1,161
Real estate loans:
Construction	15,610				15,610		17,962				17,962
Commercial and farmland	301,268		20,147		321,415		311,631		23,418		335,049
Residential	162,265		8,686		170,951		166,754		9,359		176,113
Home Equity	46,428		17,694		64,122		49,042		18,236		67,278
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures	1,964		205		2,169		2,360		269		2,629
Other Loans	90				90		132		407		539
Total	$	605,105	$	55,512	$	660,617	$	629,184	$	61,034	$	690,218

Carrying Amount	$	570,092	$	46,647	$	616,739	$	585,913	$	50,269	$	636,182
Allowance	426		17		443				229		229
Carrying Amount Net of Allowance	$	569,666	$	46,630	$	616,296	$	585,913	$	50,040	$	635,953

The balance of the allowance for loan losses and the corresponding provision expense for loans acquired and accounted for under ASC310-30 was $443,000 and $229,000 at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

Accretable yield, or income expected to be collected, is as follows:



	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014									Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
	CFS			SCB			Total			SCB
Beginning balance	$	13,435		$	5,864		$	19,299
Additions										$	5,142
Accretion	(1,155		)	(614		)	(1,769		)	(771		)
Reclassification from nonaccretable	238			253			491
Disposals	(107		)	(88		)	(195		)
Ending balance	$	12,411		$	5,415		$	17,826		$	4,371

NOTE 6

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Risk Management Objective of Using Derivatives

The Corporation is exposed to certain risks arising from both its business operations and economic conditions. The Corporation principally manages its exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of its core business activities. The Corporation manages economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity, and credit risk, primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of its assets and liabilities and through the use of derivative financial instruments. Specifically, the Corporation enters into derivative financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the receipt or payment of future known and uncertain cash amounts, the value of which are determined by interest rates. The Corporation’s derivative financial instruments are used to manage differences in the amount, timing, and duration of the Corporation’s known or expected cash payments principally related to certain variable-rate liabilities. The Corporation also has derivatives that are a result of a service the Corporation provides to certain qualifying customers, and, therefore, are not used to manage interest rate risk in the Corporation’s assets or liabilities. The Corporation manages a matched book with respect to its derivative instruments offered as a part of this service to its customers in order to minimize its net risk exposure resulting from such transactions.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk

The Corporation’s objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish these objectives, the Corporation primarily uses interest rate swaps and interest rate caps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the payment of fixed amounts to a counterparty in exchange for the Corporation receiving variable payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying notional amount. Interest rate caps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty if interest rates rise above the strike rate on the contract in exchange for an up-front premium. As of March 31, 2014, the Corporation had five interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $56.0 million and one interest rate cap with a notional amount of $13.0 million that were designated as cash flow hedges. As of March 31, 2013, the Corporation had two interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $26 million and one interest rate cap with a notional amount of $13 million that were designated as cash flow hedges.

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and is subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. During 2014, $26.0 million of the interest rate swaps and the $13.0 million interest rate cap were used to hedge the variable cash outflows (LIBOR-based) associated with existing trust preferred securities when the outflows converted from a fixed rate to variable rate in September of 2012. In addition, the remaining $30.0 million of interest rate swaps were used to hedge the variable cash outflows (LIBOR-based) associated with three Federal Home Loan Bank advances. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives is recognized directly in earnings. During the three months ended March 31, 2014, and 2013, the Corporation did not recognize any ineffectiveness.

Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive income related to derivatives will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on the Corporation’s variable-rate liabilities. During the next twelve months, the Corporation expects to reclassify $1,399,000 from accumulated other comprehensive income to interest expense.

Non-designated Hedges

The Corporation does not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. Derivatives not designated as hedges are not speculative and result from a service the Corporation provides to certain customers. The Corporation executes interest rate swaps with commercial banking customers to facilitate their respective risk management strategies. Those interest rate swaps are simultaneously hedged by offsetting interest rate swaps that the Corporation executes with a third party, such that the Corporation minimizes its net risk exposure resulting from such transactions. As the interest rate swaps associated with this program do not meet the strict hedge accounting requirements, changes in the fair value of both the customer swaps and the offsetting swaps are recognized directly in earnings. As of March 31, 2014, the notional amount of customer-facing swaps was approximately $150,441,000. This amount is offset with third party counterparties, as described above.

Fair Values of Derivative Instruments on the Balance Sheet

The table below presents the fair value of the Corporation’s derivative financial instruments, as well as their classification on the Balance Sheet, as of March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013.

Asset Derivatives

Liability Derivatives

March 31, 2014

December 31, 2013

March 31, 2014

December 31, 2013

Balance
Sheet
Location

Fair
Value

Balance
Sheet
Location

Fair
Value

Balance
Sheet
Location

Fair
Value

Balance
Sheet
Location

Fair
Value

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:

Interest rate contracts

Other Assets

477

Other Assets

1,162

Other Liabilities

1,272

Other Liabilities

1,021

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

Interest rate contracts

Other Assets

2,713

Other Assets

2,847

Other Liabilities

2,779

Other Liabilities

2,932

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Income Statement

The tables below present the effect of the Corporation’s derivative financial instruments on the Income Statement for three months ended March 31, 2014, and 2013.

The amount of gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income is included in the table below for the periods indicated.



Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income on Derivative (Effective Portion)
	Three Months ended
	March 31, 2014			March 31, 2013
Interest Rate Products	$	(1,266	)	$	297

The amount of gain (loss) reclassified from other comprehensive income into income is included in the table below for the periods indicated.



Location of Loss Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Effective Portion)	Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Other Comprehensive Income into Income (Effective Portion)
	Three Months ended
	March 31, 2014			March 31, 2013
Interest Expense	$	(344	)	$	(188	)

The Corporation’s exposure to credit risk occurs because of nonperformance by its counterparties. The counterparties approved by the Corporation are usually financial institutions, which are well capitalized and have credit ratings through Moody’s and/or Standard & Poor’s, at or above investment grade. The Corporation’s control of such risk is through quarterly financial reviews, comparing mark-to-mark values with policy limitations, credit ratings and collateral pledging.

Credit-risk-related Contingent Features

The Corporation has agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if the Corporation fails to maintain its status as a well or adequate capitalized institution, then the Corporation could be required to terminate or fully collateralize all outstanding derivative contracts.

The Corporation also has agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if the Corporation defaults on any of its indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, the Corporation could also be declared in default on its derivative obligations. As of March 31, 2014, the termination value of derivatives in a net liability position related to these agreements was $3,594,000. As of March 31, 2014, the Corporation had minimum collateral posting thresholds with certain of its derivative counterparties and had posted collateral of $3,301,000. If the Corporation had breached any of these provisions at March 31, 2014, it could have been required to settle its obligations under the agreements at their termination value.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

NOTE 7

DISCLOSURES ABOUT FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

The Corporation used fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments, to certain assets, and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. The accounting guidance defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. ASC 820 applies only when other guidance requires or permits assets or liabilities to be measured at fair value; it does not expand the use of fair value in any new circumstances.

As defined in ASC 820, fair value is the price to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. It represents an exit price at the measurement date. Market participants are buyers and sellers, who are independent, knowledgeable, and willing and able to transact in the principal (or most advantageous) market for the asset or liability being measured. Current market conditions, including imbalances between supply and demand, are considered in determining fair value. The Corporation values its assets and liabilities in the principal market where it sells the particular asset or transfers the liability with the greatest volume and level of activity. In the absence of a principal market, the valuation is based on the most advantageous market for the asset or liability (i.e., the market where the asset could be sold or the liability transferred at a price that maximizes the amount to be received for the asset or minimizes the amount to be paid to transfer the liability).

Valuation inputs refer to the assumptions market participants would use in pricing a given asset or liability. Inputs can be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs are those assumptions which market participants would use in pricing the particular asset or liability. These inputs are based on market data and are obtained from a source independent of the Corporation. Unobservable inputs are assumptions based on the Corporation’s own information or estimate of assumptions used by market participants in pricing the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are based on the best and most current information available on the measurement date. All inputs, whether observable or unobservable, are ranked in accordance with a prescribed fair value hierarchy which gives the highest ranking to quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest ranking to unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market activity (Level 3). Fair values for assets or liabilities classified as Level 2 are based on one or a combination of the following factors: (i) quoted prices for similar assets; (ii) observable inputs for the asset or liability, such as interest rates or yield curves; or (iii) inputs derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. The level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Corporation considers an input to be significant if it drives 10 percent or more of the total fair value of a particular asset or liability.

Recurring Measurements

The following table presents the fair value measurements of assets and liabilities recognized in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall at March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013.



			Fair Value Measurements Using:
March 31, 2014	Fair Value		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)	Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Available for sale securities:
U.S. Treasury	$	15,983		$	15,983
U.S. Government-sponsored agency securities	3,382			3,382
State and municipal	249,138			242,409		$	6,729
U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities	330,537			330,537
Corporate obligations	4,761					4,761
Equity securities	1,706			1,702		4
Interest rate swap asset	2,713			2,713
Interest rate cap	477			477
Interest rate swap liability	4,051			4,051

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)



			Fair Value Measurements Using:
December 31, 2013	Fair Value		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)	Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Available for sale securities:
U.S. Treasury	$	15,973		$	15,973
U.S. Government-sponsored agency securities	3,545			3,545
State and municipal	230,987			223,752		$	7,235
U.S. Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities	281,252			281,252
Corporate obligations	2,738					2,738
Equity securities	1,706			1,702		4
Interest rate swap asset	3,619			3,619
Interest rate cap	390			390
Interest rate swap liability	3,953			3,953

Following is a description of the valuation methodologies and inputs used for instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis and recognized in the accompanying Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy. There have been no significant changes in the valuation techniques as of March 31, 2014.

Available for Sale Investment Securities

Where quoted, market prices are available in an active market and securities are classified within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. There are no securities classified within Level 1 of the hierarchy. If quoted market prices are not available, then fair values are estimated by using pricing models, quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics or discounted cash flows. Level 2 securities include U.S. Treasuries, agencies, mortgage backs, state and municipal, and equity securities. In certain cases where Level 1 or Level 2 inputs are not available, securities are classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy. Level 3 fair value, including corporate obligations, state and municipal and equity securities, was determined using a discounted cash flow model that incorporated market estimates of interest rates and volatility in markets that have not been active.

Third party vendors compile prices from various sources and may apply such techniques as matrix pricing to determine the value of identical or similar investment securities classified within Level 2. Matrix pricing is a mathematical technique widely used in the banking industry to value investment securities without relying exclusively on quoted prices for specific investment securities but rather relying on the investment securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted investment securities. Any investment security not valued based upon the methods above are considered Level 3.

Pooled Trust Preferred Securities

Pooled trust preferred securities are classified as Level 3 inputs in the fair value hierarchy. These securities were rated A or better at inception, but at March 31, 2014, Moody’s ratings on these securities ranged from Ca to C. The issuers in these securities are primarily banks, but some of the pools do include a limited number of insurance companies. On a quarterly basis, the Corporation uses an other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) evaluation process to compare the present value of expected cash flows to determine whether an adverse change in cash flows has occurred. The OTTI evaluation process considers the structure and term of the collateralized debt obligation (“CDO”), interest rates, principal balances of note classes and underlying issuers, the timing and amount of interest and principal payments of the underlying issuers, and the allocation of the payments to the note classes. The current estimate of expected cash flows is based on the most recent trustee reports and any other relevant market information including announcements of interest payment deferrals or defaults of underlying trust preferred securities. Assumptions used in the evaluation process include expected future default rates and prepayments as well as recovery assumptions on defaults and deferrals. In addition, the process is used to “stress” each CDO, or make assumptions more severe than expected activity, to determine the degree to which assumptions could deteriorate before the CDO could no longer fully support repayment of the Corporation’s note class. Upon completion of the March 31, 2014 quarterly evaluation process, the conclusion was no OTTI for the three months ending March 31, 2014, or for the three months ended March 31, 2013.

Interest Rate Derivative Agreements

See information regarding the Corporation's interest rate derivative products in NOTE 6. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS, included within the Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements of this Form 10-Q.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

Level 3 Reconciliation

The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of recurring fair value measurements recognized in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets using significant unobservable (Level 3) inputs for three months ended March 31, 2014, and 2013.



	Available for Sale Securities
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2014			Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
Balance at beginning of the period	$	9,977		$	18,328
Total realized and unrealized gains and losses:
Included in net income
Included in other comprehensive income	2,058			(176		)
Purchases, issuances and settlements
Transfers in/(out) of Level 3
Principal payments	(541		)	(474		)
Ending balance	$	11,494		$	17,678

There were no gains or losses for the period included in earnings that were attributable to the changes in unrealized gains or losses related to assets or liabilities held at March 31, 2014 or December 31, 2013.

Nonrecurring Measurements

The following table presents the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall at March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013.



			Fair Value Measurements Using
March 31, 2014	Fair Value		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)	Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)	Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Impaired loans (collateral dependent)	$	6,705			$	6,705
Other real estate owned	$	2,596			$	2,596



			Fair Value Measurements Using
December 31, 2013	Fair Value		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)	Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)	Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Impaired loans (collateral dependent)	$	12,117			$	12,117
Other real estate owned	$	6,877			$	6,877

Following is a description of valuation methodologies used for instruments measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis and recognized in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy.

Impaired Loans (collateral dependent)

Loans for which it is probable that the Corporation will not collect all principal and interest due according to contractual terms are measured for impairment. Allowable methods for determining the amount of impairment include estimating fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans. If the impaired loan is identified as collateral dependent, then the fair value method of measuring the amount of impairment is utilized. This method requires obtaining a current independent appraisal of the collateral and applying a discount factor to the value. A portion of the allowance for loan losses is allocated to impaired loans if the value of such loans is deemed to be less than the unpaid balance. If these allocations cause the allowance for loan losses to increase, such increase is reported as a component of the provision for loan losses. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the uncollectability of the loan is confirmed. During 2014, certain impaired loans were partially charged off or re-evaluated. Impaired loans that are collateral dependent are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy when impairment is determined using the fair value method.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

Other Real Estate Owned

The fair value for impaired loans and other real estate owned is measured based on the value of the collateral securing those loans or real estate and is determined using several methods. The fair value of real estate is generally determined based on appraisals by qualified licensed appraisers. The appraisers typically determine the value of the real estate by utilizing an income or market valuation approach. If an appraisal is not available, the fair value may be determined by using a cash flow analysis. Fair value on other collateral such as business assets is typically ascertained by assessing, either singularly or some combination of, asset appraisals, accounts receivable aging reports, inventory listings and/or customer financial statements. Both appraised values and values based on borrower’s financial information are discounted as considered appropriate based on age and quality of the information and current market conditions.

Unobservable (Level 3) Inputs

The following table presents quantitative information about unobservable inputs used in recurring and nonrecurring Level 3 fair value measurements, other than goodwill, at March 31, 2014.



	Fair Value		Valuation Technique	Unobservable Inputs	Range (Weighted-Average)
State and municipal securities	$	6,729	Discounted cash flow	Maturity/Call date	1 month to 15 yrs
				Blend of US Muni BQ curve	A- to BBB-
				Discount rate	1% - 5%

Corporate obligations/Equity securities	$	4,765	Discounted cash flow	Risk free rate	3 month LIBOR
				plus Premium for illiquidity	plus 200bps

Impaired loans (collateral dependent)	$	6,705	Collateral based measurements	Discount to reflect current market conditions and ultimate collectability	0% - 50% (1%)

Other real estate owned	$	2,596	Appraisals	Discount to reflect current market conditions	0% - 20% (2%)

Sensitivity of Significant Unobservable Inputs

The following is a discussion of the sensitivity of significant unobservable inputs, the interrelationships between those inputs and other unobservable inputs used in recurring fair value measurement and of how those inputs might magnify or mitigate the effect of changes in the unobservable inputs on the fair value measurement.

State and Municipal Securities

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Corporation’s state and municipal securities are premiums for unrated securities and marketability discounts. Significant increases or decreases in either of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower or higher fair value measurement. Generally, changes in either of those inputs will not affect the other input.

Corporate Obligations/Equity Securities

The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Corporation’s corporate obligations/equity securities are premiums for unrated securities and marketability discounts. Significant increases or decreases in either of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower or higher fair value measurement. Generally, changes in either of those inputs will not affect the other input.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The following table presents estimated fair values of the Corporation’s financial instruments and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall at March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013.



			March 31, 2014
			(unaudited)
	Carrying Amount		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets		Significant Other Observable Inputs		Significant Unobservable Inputs
			(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
Assets:
Cash and due from banks	$	112,920	$	112,920
Interest-bearing time deposits	37,078		37,078
Investment securities available for sale	605,507				$	594,013	$	11,494
Investment securities held to maturity	544,470				517,288		34,333
Mortgage loans held for sale	6,586				6,586
Loans	3,547,044						3,490,228
Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank stock	38,990				38,990
Interest rate swap and cap asset	3,190				3,190
Interest receivable	18,001				18,001
Liabilities:
Deposits	$	4,283,179	$	3,249,547	$	1,017,455
Borrowings:
Federal funds purchased	48,357				48,357
Securities sold under repurchase agreements	137,381				137,475
Federal Home Loan Bank advances	170,887				168,255
Subordinated debentures and term loans	127,172				84,689
Interest rate swap liability	4,051				4,051
Interest payable	3,192				3,192



			December 31, 2013
	Carrying Amount		Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets		Significant Other Observable Inputs		Significant Unobservable Inputs
			(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
Assets:
Cash and due from banks	$	109,434	$	109,434
Interest-bearing time deposits	55,069		55,069
Investment securities available for sale	536,201				$	526,224	$	9,977
Investment securities held to maturity	559,378				525,998		34,849
Mortgage loans held for sale	5,331				5,331
Loans	3,564,539						3,506,615
Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank stock	38,990				38,990
Interest rate swap and cap asset	4,009				4,009
Interest receivable	18,672				18,672
Liabilities:
Deposits	$	4,231,468	$	3,082,117	$	934,937
Borrowings:
Federal funds purchased	125,645				125,645
Securities sold under repurchase agreements	148,672				148,852
Federal Home Loan Bank advances	122,140				122,962
Subordinated debentures and term loans	126,807				82,607
Interest rate swap liability	3,953				3,953
Interest payable	1,771				1,771

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The following methods were used to estimate the fair value of all other financial instruments recognized in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets at amounts other than fair value.

Cash and due from banks: The fair value of cash and cash equivalents approximates carrying value.

Interest-bearing time deposits: The fair value of interest-bearing time deposits approximates carrying value.

Investment securities: Fair value is based on quoted market prices, if available. If a quoted market price is not available, fair value is estimated using quoted market prices for similar securities. The fair value of certain Level III securities is estimated using discounted cash flow analysis, using interest rates currently being offered on investments with similar maturities and investment quality.

Mortgage Loans Held For Sale: The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short duration between origination and date of sale.

Loans: The fair value for loans is estimated using discounted cash flow analysis, using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality. See Impaired Loans above.

Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank stock: The fair value of Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank stock is based on the price which it may be resold to the Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank.

Derivative instruments: The fair value of the interest rate swaps reflects the estimated amounts that would have been received to terminate these contracts at the reporting date based upon pricing or valuation models applied to current market information. Interest rate caps are valued using the market standard methodology of discounting the future expected cash receipts that would occur if variable interest rates rose above the strike rate of the caps. The projected cash receipts on the caps are based on an expectation of future interest rates derived from observed market interest rate curves and volatilities.

Interest Receivable and Interest Payable: The fair value of interest receivables/payable approximates the carrying amount.

Deposits: The fair values of noninterest-bearing and interest-bearing demand accounts and savings deposits are equal to the amount payable on demand at the balance sheet date. The carrying amounts for variable rate, fixed-term certificates of deposit approximate their fair values at the balance sheet date. Fair values for fixed-rate certificates of deposit and other time deposits are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies interest rates currently being offered to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on such time deposits.

Federal funds purchased: The fair value of Federal Funds purchased approximates the carrying amount.

Borrowings: The fair value of borrowings is estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation, based on current rates for similar debt.

NOTE 8

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

The following table summarizes the changes in the balances of each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, as of March 31, 2014 and 2013:



	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Securities Available for Sale			Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Securities Available for Sale for which a Portion of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment has been Recognized in Income			Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges			Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Defined Benefit Plans			Total
Balance at December 31, 2013	$	1,566		$	(1,847	)	$	(501	)	$	(5,628	)	$	(6,410	)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	5,207			1,164			(823		)				5,548
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	(378		)				224						(154		)
Period change	4,829			1,164			(599		)	—			5,394
Balance at March 31, 2014	$	6,395		$	(683	)	$	(1,100	)	$	(5,628	)	$	(1,016	)


Balance at December 31, 2012	$	17,904		$	(3,272	)	$	(2,652	)	$	(17,479	)	$	(5,499	)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(2,115		)	72			193						(1,850		)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	(161		)				122			640			601
Period change	(2,276		)	72			315			640			(1,249		)
Balance at March 31, 2013	$	15,628		$	(3,200	)	$	(2,337	)	$	(16,839	)	$	(6,748	)

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The following table presents the reclassification adjustments out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that were included in net income in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013:



	Amount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Three Months Ended March 31,
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Components	2014			2013			Affected Line Item in the Statements of Income
Unrealized gains (losses) on available for sale securities ⁽¹⁾
Realized securities gains reclassified into income	$	581		$	248		Other income - net realized gains on sales of available for sale securities
Related income tax expense	(203		)	(87		)	Income tax expense
	$	378		$	161

Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges ⁽²⁾
Interest rate contracts	$	(344	)	$	(188	)	Interest expense - subordinated debentures and term loans
Related income tax benefit	120			66			Income tax expense
	$	(224	)	$	(122	)

Unrealized gains (losses) on defined benefit plans
Amortization of net loss and prior service costs				$	(985	)	Other expenses - salaries and employee benefits
Related income tax benefit				345			Income tax expense
	$	—		$	(640	)

Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax	$	154		$	(601	)

⁽¹⁾For additional detail related to unrealized gains (losses) on available for sale securities and related amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income see NOTE 3. INVESTMENT SECURITIES.

⁽²⁾ For additional detail related to unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges and related amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income see NOTE 6. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS.

NOTE 9

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

Stock options and restricted stock awards ("RSAs") have been issued to directors, officers and other management employees under the Corporation's 1999 Long-term Equity Incentive Plan and the 2009 Long-term Equity Incentive Plan. The stock options, which have a ten year life, become 100 percent vested ranging from six months to two years and are fully exercisable when vested. Option exercise prices equal the Corporation's common stock closing price on NASDAQ on the date of grant. RSAs provide for the issuance of shares of the Corporation's common stock at no cost to the holder and generally vest after three years. The RSAs vest only if the employee is actively employed by the Corporation on the vesting date and, therefore, any unvested shares are forfeited. RSAs for employees retired from the Corporation continue to vest after retirement. Deferred stock units ("DSUs") can be credited to non-employee directors who have elected to defer payment of compensation under the Corporation's 2008 Equity Compensation Plan for Non-employee Directors. DSUs credited are equal to the restricted shares that the non-employee director would have received under the plan. As of March 31, 2014, there were no outstanding DSUs.

The Corporation’s 2009 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) provides eligible employees of the Corporation and its subsidiaries an opportunity to purchase shares of common stock of the Corporation through quarterly offerings financed by payroll deductions. The price of the stock to be paid by the employees shall be equal to 85 percent of the average of the closing price of the Corporation’s common stock on each trading day during the offering period. However, in no event shall such purchase price be less than the lesser of an amount equal to 85 percent of the market price of the Corporation’s stock on the offering date or an amount equal to 85 percent of the market value on the date of purchase. Common stock purchases are made quarterly and are paid through advance payroll deductions up to a calendar year maximum of $25,000.

Compensation expense related to unvested share-based awards is recorded by recognizing the unamortized grant date fair value of these awards over the remaining service periods of those awards, with no change in historical reported fair values and earnings. Awards are valued at fair value in accordance with provisions of share-based compensation guidance and are recognized on a straight-line basis over the service periods of each award. To complete the exercise of vested stock options, RSA’s and ESPP options, the Corporation generally issues new shares from its authorized but unissued share pool. Share-based compensation for the three months ended March 31, 2014 was $505,000 compared to $374,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2013. Share-based compensation has been recognized as a component of salaries and benefits expense in the accompanying CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The estimated fair value of the stock options granted during 2013 and in prior years was calculated using a Black Scholes option pricing model. There were no stock options granted in 2014.

The Black Scholes model incorporates assumptions to value share-based awards. The risk-free rate of interest, for periods equal to the expected life of the option, is based on a U.S. government instrument over a similar contractual term of the equity instrument. Expected price volatility is based on historical volatility of the Corporation’s common stock. In addition, the Corporation generally uses historical information to determine the dividend yield and weighted-average expected life of the options until exercise. Separate groups of employees that have similar historical exercise behavior with regard to option exercise timing and forfeiture rates are considered separately for valuation and attribution purposes.

Share-based compensation expense recognized in the CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME is based on awards ultimately expected to vest and is reduced for estimated forfeitures. Share-based compensation guidance requires forfeitures to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods, if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Pre-vesting forfeitures were estimated to be approximately 5.5 percent for the three months ended March 31, 2014, based on historical experience.

The following table summarizes the components of the Corporation's share-based compensation awards recorded as expense:



	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2014			2013
Stock and ESPP Options
Pre-tax compensation expense	$	44		$	38
Income tax expense (benefit)	(3		)	(2		)
Stock and ESPP option expense, net of income taxes	$	41		$	36
Restricted Stock Awards
Pre-tax compensation expense	$	461		$	336
Income tax benefit	(161		)	(117		)
Restricted stock awards expense, net of income taxes	$	300		$	219
Total Share-Based Compensation
Pre-tax compensation expense	$	505		$	374
Income tax benefit	(164		)	(119		)
Total share-based compensation expense, net of income taxes	$	341		$	255

As of March 31, 2014, unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options and RSAs totaling $21,000 and $3,923,000, respectively, is expected to be recognized over weighted-average periods of 0.89 and 1.76 years, respectively.

Stock option activity under the Corporation's stock option plans as of March 31, 2014 and changes during the three months ended March 31, 2014, were as follows:



	Number of Shares		Weighted-Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at January 1, 2014	958,786		$	21.32
Granted
Exercised	(25,050	)	$	10.88
Canceled	1,815		$	22.15
Outstanding March 31, 2014	935,551		$	21.60	2.97	2,401,422
Vested and Expected to Vest at March 31, 2014	935,551		$	21.60	2.97	2,401,422
Exercisable at March 31, 2014	926,551		$	21.66	2.91	2,344,542

There were no options granted during the three months ended March 31, 2014. The weighted-average grant date fair value was $5.32 for stock options granted during the three months ended March 31, 2013 .

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value (the difference between the Corporation's closing stock price on the last trading day of the first three months of 2014 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their stock options on March 31, 2014. The amount of aggregate intrinsic value will change based on the fair market value of the Corporation's common stock. The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 was $274,000 and $18,000, respectively. Cash receipts of stock options exercised during this same period were $273,000 and $16,000, respectively.

The following table summarizes information on unvested RSAs outstanding as of March 31, 2014:



	Number of Shares		Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested RSAs at January 1, 2014	429,002		$	12.51
Granted	84,792		$	20.43
Vested	(105,509	)	$	12.50
Forfeited	(1,970	)	$	9.07
Unvested RSAs at March 31, 2014	406,315		$	15.06

The grant date fair value of ESPP options was estimated at the beginning of the January 1, 2014 quarterly offering period of approximately $30,000. The ESPP options vested during the three months ending March 31, 2014, leaving no unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested ESPP options at March 31, 2014.

NOTE 10

Income Tax



	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2014			2013
Income Tax Expense :
Currently Payable:
Federal	$	(1,519	)	$	(906	)
State	110
Deferred:
Federal	5,778			5,574
State
Total Income Tax Expense	$	4,369		$	4,668
Reconciliation of Federal Statutory to Actual Tax Expense:
Federal statutory income tax at 35%	$	6,296		$	5,787
Tax-exempt interest income	(1,225		)	(897		)
Stock compensation	13			11
Earnings on life insurance	(262		)	(245		)
Tax credits	(298		)	(18		)
Other	(155		)	30
Actual Tax Expense	$	4,369		$	4,668

NOTE 11

Net Income Per Share

Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the combination of all dilutive common share equivalents, comprised of shares issuable under the Corporation’s share-based compensation plans, and the weighted-average shares outstanding during the reporting period.

Dilutive common share equivalents include the dilutive effect of in-the-money share-based awards, which are calculated based on the average share price for each period using the treasury stock method. Under the treasury stock method, the exercise price of share-based awards, the amount of compensation expense, if any, for future service that the Corporation has not yet recognized, and the amount of estimated tax benefits that would be recorded in additional paid-in capital when share-based awards are exercised, are assumed to be used to repurchase common stock in the current period.

Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

The following table reconciles basic and diluted net income per share for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013.



	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2014					2013
	Net Income		Weighted-Average Shares	Per Share Amount		Net Income			Weighted-Average Shares	Per Share Amount
Basic net income per share:	$	13,620				$	11,865
Less: Preferred Stock dividends and discount accretion						(857		)
Net income available to common stockholders	13,620		35,956,436	$	0.38	11,008			28,716,987	$	0.38
Effect of dilutive stock options and warrants			304,188						254,251
Diluted net income per share:
Net income available to common stockholders	$	13,620	36,260,624	$	0.38	$	11,008		28,971,238	$	0.38

Stock options to purchase 648,182 and 698,718 shares for the three months ended March 31, 2014, and 2013, respectively, were not included in the earnings per share calculation because the exercise price exceeded the average market price.

NOTE 12

IMPACT OF ACCOUNTING CHANGES

Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-01- Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects - In January 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-01, Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects, to permit entities to make an accounting policy election to account for their investments in qualified affordable housing projects using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. The ASU modifies the conditions that an entity must meet to be eligible to use a method other than the equity or cost methods to account for qualified affordable housing project investments. The ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2014. Adoption of the ASU is not expected to have a significant effect on the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements.

Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-04- Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure - In January 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2014-04, Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure, to reduce diversity by clarifying when a creditor should be considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan such that the loan receivable should be derecognized and the real estate property recognized. The ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2014. Adoption of the ASU is not expected to have a significant effect on the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 13

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On April 11, 2014, the Corporation entered into a line of credit agreement with U.S. Bank, N.A. with a maximum borrowing capacity of $20 million. Interest is payable quarterly based on one-month LIBOR plus 2.00 percent. The line of credit has a quarterly facility fee of 0.25 percent on the unused balance. The maturity date for the line of credit is April 10, 2015. The line of credit agreement contains certain customary representations and warranties and financial and negative covenants.

NOTE 14

CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

On April 16, 2013, First Merchants was named in a class action lawsuit in Delaware County Circuit Court challenging First Merchants' checking account practices associated with the assessment of overdraft fees. The plaintiff sought damages and other relief, including restitution and injunction relief. First Merchants removed the case from state court to federal district court. First Merchants filed a motion to stay the federal action pending arbitration. The motion was granted by the court and the action was stayed. To the extent the plaintiff desires to further pursue the matter, the plaintiff must do so through a separate arbitration proceeding. To date, there has been no effort by the plaintiff to initiate arbitration proceedings and no further activity in the court proceedings. If arbitration is pursued, First Merchants believes it has meritorious defenses to the claims brought by the plaintiff.

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

From time to time, we include forward-looking statements in our oral and written communication. We may include forward-looking statements in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, such as this Form 10-Q, in other written materials and in oral statements made by senior management to analysts, investors, representatives of the media and others. We intend these forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and we are including this statement for purposes of these safe harbor provisions. Forward-looking statements can often be identified by the use of words like “believe”, “continue”, “pattern”, “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “expect” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will”, “would”, “should”, “could”, “might”, “can”, “may”, or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements include:


•	statements of our goals, intentions and expectations;


•	statements regarding our business plan and growth strategies;


•	statements regarding the asset quality of our loan and investment portfolios; and


•	estimates of our risks and future costs and benefits.

These forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks, assumptions and uncertainties, including, among other things, the following important factors which could affect the actual outcome of future events:


•	fluctuations in market rates of interest and loan and deposit pricing, which could negatively affect our net interest margin, asset valuations and expense expectations;


•	adverse changes in the economy, which might affect our business prospects and could cause credit-related losses and expenses;


•	adverse developments in our loan and investment portfolios;


•	competitive factors in the banking industry, such as the trend towards consolidation in our market;


•	changes in the banking legislation or the regulatory requirements of federal and state agencies applicable to bank holding companies and banks like our affiliate banks;


•	acquisitions of other businesses by us and integration of such acquired businesses;


•	changes in market, economic, operational, liquidity, credit and interest rate risks associated with our business; and


•	the continued availability of earnings and excess capital sufficient for the lawful and prudent declaration and payment of cash dividends.

Because of these and other uncertainties, our actual future results may be materially different from the results indicated by these forward-looking statements. In addition, our past results of operations do not necessarily indicate our anticipated future results.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Generally accepted accounting principles are complex and require us to apply significant judgments to various accounting, reporting and disclosure matters. We must use assumptions and estimates to apply those principles where actual measurement is not possible or practical. For a complete discussion of our significant accounting policies, see “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. Certain policies are considered critical because they are highly dependent upon subjective or complex judgments, assumptions and estimates. Changes in such estimates may have a significant impact on the financial statements. We have reviewed the application of these policies with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.

We believe there have been no significant changes during the three months ended March 31, 2014, to the items that we disclosed as our critical accounting policies and estimates in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.

BUSINESS SUMMARY

First Merchants Corporation (the “Corporation”) is a financial holding company headquartered in Muncie, Indiana and was organized in September 1982. The Corporation’s Common Stock is traded on NASDAQ’s Global Select Market System under the symbol FRME. The Corporation has one full-service bank charter, First Merchants Bank, National Association (the “Bank”), which opened for business in Muncie, Indiana, in March 1893. The Bank also operates Lafayette Bank and Trust, Commerce National Bank and First Merchants Trust Company as divisions of First Merchants Bank, National Association. The Bank includes ninety-six banking locations in twenty-six Indiana, two Illinois and two Ohio counties. In addition to its branch network, the Corporation’s delivery channels include ATMs, check cards, remote deposit capture, interactive voice response systems and internet technology. The Corporation’s business activities are currently limited to one significant business segment, which is community banking.

Through the Bank, the Corporation offers a broad range of financial services, including accepting time deposits, savings and demand deposits; making consumer, commercial, agri-business and real estate mortgage loans; renting safe deposit facilities; providing personal and corporate trust services; providing full-service brokerage; and providing other corporate services, letters of credit and repurchase agreements.

The Corporation also operates First Merchants Insurance Services, Inc., operating as First Merchants Insurance Group, a full-service property, casualty, personal lines, and employee benefit insurance agency headquartered in Muncie, Indiana.

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Executive Summary

First Merchants Corporation reported net income available to common stockholders of $13.6 million, or $0.38 per fully diluted common share for the three months ended March 31, 2014, an increase of $2.6 million, compared to net income available to common stockholders of $11.0 million, or $0.38 per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2013.

As of March 31, 2014, total assets equaled $5.5 billion, an increase of $15.7 million from December 31, 2013. Investment securities increased $54.4 million, while total loans of $3.6 billion decreased $14.5 million from December 31, 2013. Additional details of the changes in the Corporation's loans and other earning assets are discussed within NOTE 4. LOANS AND ALLOWANCE, included within the Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements, and the "EARNING ASSETS" section of Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Form 10-Q.

The Corporation’s allowance for loan losses totaled $69.6 million as of March 31, 2014. The allowance provides 125.0 percent coverage of all non-accrual loans and 1.92 percent of total loans. The Corporation had no provision expense for the first quarter of 2014, compared to $2.1 million in the first quarter of 2013. Net charge-offs totaled $(1.7) million for the first quarter of 2014, down from $2.9 million for the first quarter of 2013. Additional details are discussed within the “LOAN QUALITY/PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES” section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Form 10-Q.

Total deposits of $4.3 billion increased from December 31, 2013 by $51.7 million. The largest increases were in maturity deposits, which increased $78.8 million. These increases were offset by a decrease in non-maturity deposits of $27.0 million compared to December 31, 2013. Total borrowings decreased $39.5 million from December 31, 2013 as Federal Funds purchased and securities sold under repurchase agreements decreased $77.3 million and $11.3 million, respectively. These decreases were offset by an increase in Federal Home Loan Bank advances of $48.7 million.

The Corporation was able to maintain all regulatory capital ratios in excess of the regulatory definition of “well-capitalized” as discussed in the “CAPITAL” section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Form 10-Q.

NET INTEREST INCOME

Net interest income is the primary source of the Corporation’s earnings. Net interest margin is a function of net interest income and the level of average earning assets. Net interest income and net interest margin are presented in the following table on a fully taxable equivalent basis (“FTE”), which adjusts tax-exempt or nontaxable interest income to an amount that would be comparable to interest subject to income taxes using the federal statutory tax rate of 35 percent in effect for all periods. Net interest margin decreased 28 basis points from 4.25 percent in the first quarter of 2013 to 3.97 percent in the first quarter of 2014, while earning assets increased by $961.9 million.

The increase in net interest income and average earning assets during the three months ended March 31, 2014 compared with the same period in 2013 was driven primarily as a result of the Corporation acquiring 100 percent of CFS Bancorp, Inc. in November 2013. Additional details can be found in NOTE 2. BUSINESS COMBINATION, included within the Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements of this Form 10-Q.

During the three months ended March 31, 2014, asset yields decreased 30 basis points FTE and interest costs decreased 2 basis points, resulting in a 28 basis point FTE decrease in net interest income as compared to the same period in 2013. The following table presents the Corporation’s interest income, interest expense, and net interest income as a percent of average earning assets for the three months ended March 31, 2014, and 2013.



	Three Months Ended March 31,
(Dollars in Thousands)	2014			2013
Annualized net interest income	$	183,568		$	157,830
Annualized FTE adjustment	$	7,537		$	5,537
Annualized net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent basis	$	191,105		$	163,367
Average earning assets	$	4,805,665		$	3,843,741
Interest income (FTE) as a percent of average earning assets	4.40		%	4.70		%
Interest expense as a percent of average earning assets	0.43		%	0.45		%
Net interest income (FTE) as a percent of average earning assets	3.97		%	4.25		%

Average earning assets include the average balance of securities classified as available for sale, computed based on the average of the historical amortized cost balances without the effects of the fair value adjustment. Annualized amounts are computed utilizing a 30/360 day basis.

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

NON-INTEREST INCOME

Non-interest income increased $1.3 million or 9.4 percent in the first quarter of 2014, compared to the first quarter of 2013. In November 2013, the Corporation acquired 100 percent of CFS Bancorp, Inc., which was the primary reason for an increase in non-interest income during the three months ended March 31, 2014 compared with the same period in 2013. Additional details can be found in NOTE 2. BUSINESS COMBINATION, included within the Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements of this Form 10-Q.

Service charge income and other customer fees increased $822,000 and $953,000, respectively, during the three months ended March 31, 2014 compared with the same period in 2013, primarily due to the increased customer base as a result of the CFS acquisition. Other income increased $607,000 from the same period in 2013 primarily due to increased gains recognized on the sale of other real estate properties. The sale of investment securities resulted in net gains of $581,000, a $333,000 increase from the same period in 2013.

Offsetting these increases, was a decrease in the gains on the sale of mortgage loans of $1.7 million during the first quarter of 2014 when compared to the same quarter of 2013.

NON-INTEREST EXPENSE

Non-interest expense increased $8.4 million or 24.2 percent for the three months ended March 31, 2014, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2013. Salaries and employee benefits increased $4.5 million or 21.7 percent over the same quarter last year. This was primarily driven by the addition of personnel from the acquisition of CFS. Additionally, the Corporation incurred $866,000 of expense due to seeding of employee health savings accounts. The Corporation also experienced an increase of $1.3 million in premises expenses as 20 locations were added to our banking center network as a result of the CFS acquisition. Additionally, an unusually high amount of snow removal costs throughout the entire corporate footprint accounted for $669,000 of premises expense.

The Corporation had one-time expenses related to the CFS acquisition and the integration of their core system of $1.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014. Equipment expenses increased $965,000, of which $480,000 of this increase was due to running CFS' core system prior to integration. In addition, marketing expenses were $302,000 higher than the same period in 2013 as marketing mailings to CFS customers increased during the integration time frame.

FDIC expense increased for the three months ended March 31, 2014 compared to the same period in 2013 by $316,000 as the CFS acquisition increased the amount subject to FDIC assessment.

INCOME TAXES

The income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2014, was $4,369,000 on pre-tax net income of $17,989,000. For the same period in 2013, the income tax expense was $4,668,000 on pre-tax net income of $16,533,000.

Taxes, both current and deferred, decreased in the first quarter of 2014 by $5,930,000. The decline in the net asset was mainly due to an increase of $3,227,000 in the deferred tax liability associated with unrealized gains on available for sale securities and an increase of $2,445,000 in the deferred tax liability associated with pensions and other employee benefits.

CAPITAL

Capital adequacy is an important indicator of financial stability and performance. The Corporation maintained a strong capital position as tangible common equity to tangible assets was 8.65 percent at March 31, 2014, and 8.34 percent at December 31, 2013.

The Corporation and the Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies and are assigned to a capital category. The assigned capital category is largely determined by three ratios that are calculated according to the regulations: total risk-based capital, Tier 1 capital, and Tier 1 leverage ratios. The ratios are intended to measure capital relative to assets and credit risk associated with those assets and off-balance sheet exposures of the entity. The capital category assigned to an entity can also be affected by qualitative judgments made by regulatory agencies about the risk inherent in the entity's activities that are not part of the calculated ratios. At March 31, 2014, the management of the Corporation believes that it meets all capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject. The most recent notifications from the regulatory agencies categorized the Bank as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.

There are five capital categories defined in the regulations, ranging from well capitalized to critically undercapitalized. Classification of a bank in any of the undercapitalized categories can result in actions by regulators that could have a material effect on a bank's operations.

To be considered well capitalized, a bank must have a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10 percent, a Tier I capital ratio of at least 6 percent, a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 5 percent, and must not be subject to any order or directive requiring the bank to improve its capital level. An adequately capitalized bank has a total risk-based capital ratio of a least 8 percent, a Tier I capital ratio of at least 4 percent and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 4 percent. Banks with lower capital levels are deemed to be undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized or critically undercapitalized, depending on their actual levels. The appropriate federal regulatory agency may also downgrade a bank to the next lower capital category upon a determination that the bank is in an unsafe or unsound practice. Banks are required to monitor closely their capital levels and to notify their appropriate regulatory agency of any basis for a change in capital category.

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

As of March 31, 2014, the Corporation, on a consolidated basis, as well as the Bank, exceeded the minimum capital levels of the well capitalized category.



	March 31, 2014				December 31, 2013
(Dollars in Thousands)	Amount		Ratio		Amount		Ratio
Consolidated
Total risk-based capital (to risk-weighted assets)	$	617,654	15.04	%	$	599,966	14.54	%
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	501,098		12.20	%	483,186		11.71	%
Tier 1 capital (to average assets)	501,098		9.65	%	483,186		10.20	%
First Merchants Bank
Total risk-based capital (to risk-weighted assets)	$	606,534	14.81	%	$	599,272	14.56	%
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	555,153		13.55	%	547,655		13.30	%
Tier 1 capital (to average assets)	555,153		10.72	%	547,655		11.58	%

Tier I regulatory capital consists primarily of total stockholders’ equity and subordinated debentures issued to business trusts categorized as qualifying borrowings, less non-qualifying intangible assets and unrealized net securities gains or losses.

On January 3, 2013, the Corporation redeemed 22,695.94 shares of its Senior Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series B (the "Series B Preferred Stock") held by the U.S. Department of the Treasury (the "Treasury") at an aggregate redemption price of $22,695,940, plus accrued but unpaid dividends. The Series B Preferred Stock was issued to the Treasury in September of 2011 as part of the Corporation's participation in the Small Business Lending Fund Program. Following this redemption, the Treasury held 68,087 shares of the Series B Preferred Stock representing a remaining liquidation amount of approximately $68 million.

On July 2, 2013, the Corporation redeemed an additional 34,044 shares of the Series B Preferred Stock at an aggregate redemption price of $34,044,000, plus accrued but unpaid dividends. Following this redemption, the Treasury held 34,043 shares of the Series B Preferred Stock representing a remaining liquidation amount of approximately $34 million.

On November 12, 2013, the Corporation acquired 100 percent of CFS Bancorp, Inc. ("CFS") in an all stock transaction. Pursuant to the merger agreement, the shareholders of CFS received 0.65 percent of the Corporation's common stock for each share of CFS Bancorp common stock held. The Corporation issued approximately 7.1 million shares of common stock, which was valued at approximately $135.7 million. This transaction resulted in a core deposit intangible of $7,313,000 and goodwill of $47,573,000. See Note 2. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS, to the Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements of this Form 10-Q for additional information.

On November 22, 2013, the Corporation redeemed the final 34,043 shares of the Series B Preferred Stock held by the Treasury at an aggregate redemption price of $34,043,000 plus accrued but unpaid dividends. There are no shares of the Corporation's Series B Preferred Stock currently outstanding.

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Management believes that all of the above capital ratios are meaningful measurements for evaluating the safety and soundness of the Corporation. Additionally, management believes the following table is also meaningful when considering performance measures of the Corporation. The table details and reconciles tangible earnings per share, return on tangible capital and tangible assets to traditional GAAP measures for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013.



	Three Months Ended March 31,
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)	2014			2013
Average goodwill	$	188,988		$	141,374
Average core deposit intangible (CDI)	13,539			7,966
Average deferred tax on CDI	(4,897		)	(2,242		)
Intangible adjustment	$	197,630		$	147,098
Average stockholders' equity (GAAP capital)	$	644,899		$	533,797
Average cumulative preferred stock	(125		)	(125		)
Average non-cumulative preferred stock issued under the Small Business Lending Fund Program				(68,591		)
Intangible adjustment	(197,630		)	(147,098		)
Average tangible capital	$	447,144		$	317,983
Average assets	$	5,399,688		$	4,248,955
Intangible adjustment	(197,630		)	(147,098		)
Average tangible assets	$	5,202,058		$	4,101,857
Net income available to common stockholders	$	13,620		$	11,008
CDI amortization, net of tax	336			207
Tangible net income available to common stockholders	$	13,956		$	11,215
Per Share Data:
Diluted net income available to common stockholders	$	0.38		$	0.38
Diluted tangible net income available to common stockholders	$	0.38		$	0.39
Ratios:
Return on average GAAP capital (ROE)	8.45		%	8.25		%
Return on average tangible capital	12.49		%	14.11		%
Return on average assets (ROA)	1.01		%	1.04		%
Return on average tangible assets	1.07		%	1.09		%

Return on average tangible capital is tangible net income available to common stockholders (annualized) expressed as a percentage of average tangible capital. Return on average tangible assets is tangible net income available to common stockholders (annualized) expressed as a percentage of average tangible assets.

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

LOAN QUALITY/PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES

The Corporation’s primary business focus is small business and middle market commercial, commercial real estate, residential real estate, auto and small consumer lending, which results in portfolio diversification. Commercial loans are individually underwritten and judgmentally risk rated. They are periodically monitored and prompt corrective actions are taken on deteriorating loans. Retail loans are typically underwritten with statistical decision-making tools and are managed throughout their life cycle on a portfolio basis.

Loan Quality

Non-performing loan balances will change as a result of routine problem loan recognition and resolution through collections, sales or charge offs. The performance of any loan can be affected by external factors such as economic conditions, or factors particular to a borrower, such as actions of a borrower’s management.

Non-accrual loans decreased by $716,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2014, from $56,402,000 at December 31, 2013 to the March 31, 2014, balance of $55,686,000. In addition, other real estate owned declined $1,169,000 during the same period. For other real estate owned, current appraisals are obtained to determine fair value as management continues to aggressively market these real estate assets. Accruing loans delinquent 90 or more days at March 31, 2014 increased $359,000 to $1,709,000 from the December 31, 2013 balance of $1,350,000.

Commercial impaired loans include all non-accrual loans, loans accounted for under SOP-03-3 and renegotiated loans as well as substandard, doubtful and loss grade loans that were still accruing but deemed impaired according to guidance set forth in ASC 310. Also included in impaired loans are accruing loans that are contractually past due 90 days or more and troubled troubled debt restructurings.

A loan is deemed impaired when, based on current information or events, it is probable that all amounts due of principal and interest according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement will not be collected substantially within the contractual terms of the note. At March 31, 2014, commercial impaired loans totaled $117,832,000 a decrease of $1,923,000 from the balance of $119,755,000 at December 31, 2013. At March 31, 2014, an allowance for losses was not deemed necessary for commercial impaired loans totaling $111,706,000 as there was no identified loss on these credits. An allowance of $1,794,000 was recorded for the remaining balance of these impaired loans totaling $6,126,000 and is included in the corporation’s allowance for loan losses.

The following table details the Corporation's non-performing assets plus loans 90-days or more delinquent, and notes total commercial impaired loans for the periods indicated.



(Dollars in Thousands)	March 31, 2014		December 31, 2013
Non-Performing Assets:
Non-accrual loans	$	55,686	$	56,402
Renegotiated loans	378		3,048
Non-performing loans (NPL)	56,064		59,450
Other real estate owned	21,077		22,246
Non-performing assets (NPA)	77,141		81,696
90+ days delinquent and still accruing	1,709		1,350
Non-performing assets plus 90+ days delinquent	$	78,850	$	83,046
Impaired Loans	$	117,832	$	119,755

The composition of non-performing assets plus loans 90-days or more delinquent is reflected in the following table.



(Dollars in Thousands)	March 31, 2014		December 31, 2013
Non-Performing Assets and 90+ Days Delinquent:
Commercial and industrial loans	$	8,613	$	9,317
Agricultural production financing and other loans to farmers	28		30
Real estate loans:
Construction	9,706		12,730
Commercial and farmland	41,544		43,229
Residential	16,236		15,340
Home Equity	2,526		1,977
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures	197		259
Lease financing receivables, net of unearned income
Other loans			164
Non-performing assets plus 90+ days delinquent	$	78,850	$	83,046

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Provision for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses is maintained through the provision for loan losses, which is a charge against earnings. The amount actually provided for loan losses in any period may be greater than or less than net loan losses, based on management’s judgment as to the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses. The amount provided for loan losses and the determination of the adequacy of the allowance are based on a continuous review of the loan portfolio, including an internally administered loan “watch” list and an ongoing loan review. The evaluation takes into consideration identified credit problems, as well as the possibility of losses inherent in the loan portfolio that are not specifically identified.

At March 31, 2014, the allowance for loan losses was $69,583,000, an increase of $1,713,000 from December 31, 2013. As a percent of loans, the allowance was 1.92 percent at March 31, 2014, 1.87 percent at December 31, 2013, 2.26 percent at September 30, 2013 and 2.32 percent at June 30, 2013. The provision for loan losses for the three months ended March 31, 2014 was $0, a decrease of $2,102,000 for the same period in 2013. Specific reserves on impaired loans increased $211,000 from $1,583,000 at December 31, 2013, to $1,794,000 at March 31, 2014.

Net charge offs for the three months ended March 31, 2014, were $(1,713,000), a decrease of $4,644,000 from the same period in 2013. Of this amount, two recoveries, totaling 100.6 percent of net charge offs, were greater than $500,000. There were no charge offs greater than $500,000 for the three month period. The distribution of the net charge offs for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and March 31, 2013 is reflected in the following table:



	Three Months Ended March 31,
(Dollars in Thousands)	2014			2013
Net Charge Offs (Recoveries):
Commercial and industrial loans	$	(1,315	)	$	930
Agricultural production financing and other loans to farmers	(16		)	(18		)
Real estate loans:
Construction	(362		)	(258		)
Commercial and farmland	(151		)	1,228
Residential	96			746
Home Equity	(25		)	338
Individuals' loans for household and other personal expenditures	93			(23		)
Lease financing receivables, net of unearned income	(20		)
Other Loans	(13		)	(12		)
Total Net Charge Offs	$	(1,713	)	$	2,931

Management continually evaluates the commercial loan portfolio by including consideration of specific borrower cash flow analysis and estimated collateral values, types and amounts on non-performing loans, past and anticipated loan loss experience, changes in the composition of the loan portfolio, and the current condition and amount of loans outstanding. The determination of the provision for loan losses in any period is based on management’s continuing review and evaluation of the loan portfolio, and its judgment as to the impact of current economic conditions on the portfolio.

LIQUIDITY

Liquidity management is the process by which we ensure that adequate liquid funds are available for the holding company and its subsidiaries. These funds are necessary in order to meet financial commitments on a timely basis. These commitments include withdrawals by depositors, funding credit obligations to borrowers, paying dividends to stockholders, paying operating expenses, funding capital expenditures, and maintaining deposit reserve requirements. Liquidity is monitored and closely managed by the asset/liability committee.

The Corporation’s liquidity is dependent upon our receipt of dividends from the Bank, which is subject to certain regulatory limitations and access to other funding sources. Liquidity of the Bank is derived primarily from core deposit growth, principal payments received on loans, the sale and maturity of investment securities, net cash provided by operating activities, and access to other funding sources.

The principal source of asset-funded liquidity is investment securities classified as available for sale, the market values of which totaled $605,507,000 at March 31, 2014, an increase of $69,306,000, or 12.9 percent, from December 31, 2013. Securities classified as held to maturity that are maturing within a short period of time can also be a source of liquidity. Securities classified as held to maturity that are maturing in one year or less, totaled $3,867,000 at March 31, 2014. In addition, other types of assets such as cash and due from banks, federal funds sold, and securities purchased under agreements to resell, loans and interest-bearing deposits with other banks maturing within one year are sources of liquidity.

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The most stable source of liability-funded liquidity for both the long-term and short-term is deposit growth and retention in the core deposit base. In addition, Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advances are utilized as funding sources. At March 31, 2014, total borrowings from the FHLB were $170,887,000. The Bank has pledged certain mortgage loans and investments to the FHLB. The total available remaining borrowing capacity from the FHLB at March 31, 2014, was $199,020,000.

On November 1, 2013, the Corporation completed the private issuance and sale to four institutional investors of an aggregate of $70 million of debt comprised of (a) 5.00 percent Fixed-to-Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2028 in the aggregate principal amount of $5 million (the "Senior Debt") and (b) 6.75 percent Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2028 in the aggregate principal amount of $65 million (the "Subordinated Debt"). The Senior Debt agreement contains certain customary representations and warranties and financial and negative covenants. As of March 31, 2014, the Corporation was in compliance with these covenants. The net proceeds of the placement were used to pay off the Corporation's $55 million credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. which was scheduled to mature on February 15, 2015.

In the normal course of business, the Bank is a party to a number of other off-balance sheet activities that contain credit, market and operational risk that are not reflected in whole or in part in our consolidated financial statements. Such activities include traditional off-balance sheet credit-related financial instruments, commitments under operating leases and long-term debt.

The Bank provides customers with off-balance sheet credit support through loan commitments and standby and commercial letters of credit. Summarized credit-related financial instruments at March 31, 2014, are as follows:



(Dollars in Thousands)	March 31, 2014
Amounts of commitments:
Loan commitments to extend credit	$	1,424,457
Standby and commercial letters of credit	39,780
	$	1,464,237

Since many of the commitments are expected to expire unused or be only partially used, the total amount of unused commitments in the preceding table does not necessarily represent future cash requirements.

In addition to owned banking facilities, the Corporation has entered into a number of long-term leasing arrangements to support ongoing activities. The required payments under such commitments and borrowings at March 31, 2014, are as follows:



(Dollars in Thousands)	Remaining 2014		2015		2016		2017		2018		2019		2020 and after		Total
Operating leases	$	2,062	$	2,522	$	2,042	$	1,357	$	688	$	438	$	2,709	$	11,818
Federal funds purchased	48,357														48,357
Securities sold under repurchase agreements	137,381														137,381
Federal Home Loan Bank advances	75,194		30,879		28,833		2,626		13,252		3		20,100		170,887
Subordinated debentures and term loans	470												126,702		127,172
Total	$	263,464	$	33,401	$	30,875	$	3,983	$	13,940	$	441	$	149,511	$	495,615

INTEREST SENSITIVITY AND DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

Asset/Liability Management has been an important factor in the Corporation's ability to record consistent earnings growth through periods of interest rate volatility and product deregulation. Management and the Board of Directors monitor the Corporation's liquidity and interest sensitivity positions at regular meetings to review how changes in interest rates may affect earnings. Decisions regarding investment and the pricing of loan and deposit products are made after analysis of reports designed to measure liquidity, rate sensitivity, the Corporation’s exposure to changes in net interest income given various rate scenarios and the economic and competitive environments.

It is the objective of the Corporation to monitor and manage risk exposure to net interest income caused by changes in interest rates. It is the goal of the Corporation’s Asset/Liability function to provide optimum and stable net interest income. To accomplish this, management uses two asset liability tools. GAP/Interest Rate Sensitivity Reports and Net Interest Income Simulation Modeling are constructed, presented and monitored quarterly.

Net interest income simulation modeling, or earnings-at-risk, measures the sensitivity of net interest income to various interest rate movements. The Corporation's asset liability process monitors simulated net interest income under three separate interest rate scenarios; base, rising and falling. Estimated net interest income for each scenario is calculated over a 12-month horizon. The immediate and parallel changes to the base case scenario used in the model are presented below. The interest rate scenarios are used for analytical purposes and do not necessarily represent management's view of future market movements. Rather, these are intended to provide a measure of the degree of volatility interest rate movements may introduce into the earnings of the Corporation.

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The base scenario is highly dependent on numerous assumptions embedded in the model, including assumptions related to future interest rates. While the base sensitivity analysis incorporates management's best estimate of interest rate and balance sheet dynamics under various market rate movements, the actual behavior and resulting earnings impact will likely differ from that projected. For certain assets, the base simulation model captures the expected prepayment behavior under changing interest rate environments. Assumptions and methodologies regarding the interest rate or balance behavior of indeterminate maturity products, such as savings, money market, NOW and demand deposits, reflect management's best estimate of expected future behavior.

The comparative rising 200 basis points and falling 100 basis points scenarios below, as of March 31, 2014, assume further interest rate changes in addition to the base simulation discussed above. These changes are immediate and parallel changes to the base case scenario. In the current rate environment, many driver rates are at or near historical lows, thus total rate movements (beginning point minus ending point) to each of the various driver rates utilized by management have the following results:



	March 31, 2014
	RISING	FALLING
Driver Rates	(200 Basis Points)	(100 Basis Points)
Prime	200	—
Federal funds	200	—
One-year CMT	200	(5	)
Three-year CMT	200	(62	)
Five-year CMT	200	(100	)
CD's	200	(22	)
FHLB advances	200	(65	)

Results for the base, rising 200 basis points, and falling 100 basis points interest rate scenarios are listed below based upon the Corporation’s rate sensitive assets and liabilities at March 31, 2014. The net interest income shown represents cumulative net interest income over a 12-month time horizon. Balance sheet assumptions used for the base scenario are the same for the rising and falling simulations.



	March 31, 2014
			RISING			FALLING
(Dollars in Thousands)	Base		(200 Basis Points)			(100 Basis Points)
Net interest income	$	179,533	$	189,100		$	173,987
Variance from base			$	9,567		$	(5,546	)
Percent of change from base			5.33		%	(3.09		)%

The comparative rising 200 basis points and falling 100 basis points scenarios below, as of December 31, 2013, assume further interest rate changes in addition to the base simulation discussed above. These changes are immediate and parallel changes to the base case scenario. In addition, total rate movements (beginning point minus ending point) to each of the various driver rates utilized by management in the base simulation are as follows:



	December 31, 2013
	RISING	FALLING
Driver Rates	(200 Basis Points)	(100 Basis Points)
Prime	200	—
Federal funds	200	—
One-year CMT	200	(5	)
Three-year CMT	200	(50	)
Five-year CMT	200	(100	)
CD's	200	(20	)
FHLB advances	200	(33	)

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Results for the base, rising 200 basis points, and falling 100 basis points interest rate scenarios are listed below. The net interest income shown represents cumulative net interest income over a 12-month time horizon. Balance sheet assumptions used for the base scenario are the same for the rising and falling simulations.



	December 31, 2013
			RISING			FALLING
(Dollars in Thousands)	Base		(200 Basis Points)			(100 Basis Points)
Net interest income	$	179,646	$	190,736		$	175,238
Variance from base			$	11,090		$	(4,408	)
Percent of change from base			6.17		%	(2.45		)%

EARNING ASSETS

The following table presents the earning asset mix as of March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013. Earning assets increased by $21,880,000 in the three months ended March 31, 2014. Interest-bearing time deposits decreased $17,991,000, while investments increased by approximately $54,398,000. Loans and loans held for sale decreased by $14,527,000. Two loan classes experiencing the largest increases from December 31, 2013, were commercial and industrial loans and real estate residential. These increases were offset primarily by decreases in three loan classes, which were real estate construction, agriculture production financing and other loans.



(Dollars in Thousands)	March 31, 2014		December 31, 2013
Interest-bearing time deposits	$	37,078	$	55,069
Investment securities available for sale	605,507		536,201
Investment securities held to maturity	544,470		559,378
Mortgage loans held for sale	6,586		5,331
Loans	3,616,627		3,632,409
Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank stock	38,990		38,990
Total	$	4,849,258	$	4,827,378

OTHER

The Securities and Exchange Commission maintains a Web site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the Commission, including the Corporation, and that address is (http://www.sec.gov).

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE

DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The information required under this item is included as part of Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, under the headings “LIQUIDITY” and “INTEREST SENSITIVITY AND DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK”.

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

At the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective. Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.

There have been no changes in the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation discussed above that occurred during the Corporation’s last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting.

Table of Contents

PART II: OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1., ITEM 1A., ITEM 2., ITEM 3., ITEM 4. AND ITEM 5.

(table dollar amounts in thousands, except share data)

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

None

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

There have been no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in the Corporation’s December 31, 2013, Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

a. None

b. None

c. Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The following table presents information relating to our purchases of equity securities during three months ended March 31, 2014, as follows:



Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased	Average Price Paid per Share	Total Number of Shares Purchased as part of Publicly announced Plans or Programs	Maximum Number of Shares that may yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
January, 2014
February, 2014	30,265	$20.37
March, 2014	19,459	$21.95

The shares were purchased in connection with the exercise of certain outstanding stock options or restricted stock.

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not Applicable

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

a. None

b. None

Table of Contents

PART II: OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS



Exhibit No:	Description of Exhibits:

3.1	First Merchants Corporation Articles of Incorporation, as amended (Incorporated by reference to registrant’s Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2011)
3.2	Bylaws of First Merchants Corporation dated October 28, 2009 (Incorporated by reference to registrant’s Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2009)
4.1	First Merchants Corporation Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of First Merchants Capital Trust II dated as of July 2, 2007 (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 8-K filed on July 3, 2007)
4.2	Indenture dated as of July 2, 2007 (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 8-K filed on July 3, 2007)
4.3	Guarantee Agreement dated as of July 2, 2007 (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 8-K filed on July 3, 2007)
4.4	Form of Capital Securities Certification of First Merchants Capital Trust II (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 8-K filed on July 3, 2007)
4.5	First Merchants Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (Incorporated by reference to registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Form S-3 filed on August 21, 2009)
4.6	Upon request, the registrant agrees to furnish supplementally to the Commission a copy of the instruments defining the rights of holders of its (a) 5.00% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2028 in the aggregate principal amount of $5 million and (b) 6.75% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2028 in aggregate principal amount of $65 million.
10.1	First Merchants Corporation Senior Management Incentive Compensation Program, dated February 11, 2014 (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2014)
31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes - Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes - Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
32	Certifications Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
101.INS	XBRL Instance Document (2)
101.SCH	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document (2)
101.CAL	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document (2)
101.DEF	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document (2)
101.LAB	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document (2)
101.PRE	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkebase Document (2)


	(1) Filed herewith.
	(2) Furnished herewith.

Table of Contents

PART II: OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.



	First Merchants Corporation
	(Registrant)


Date: May 9, 2014	by /s/ Michael C. Rechin
	Michael C. Rechin
	President and Chief Executive Officer
	(Principal Executive Officer)

Date: May 9, 2014	by /s/ Mark K. Hardwick
	Mark K. Hardwick
	Executive Vice President and
	Chief Financial Officer
	(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

Table of Contents

PART II: OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

INDEX TO EXHIBITS



Exhibit No:	Description of Exhibits:

3.1	First Merchants Corporation Articles of Incorporation, as amended (Incorporated by reference to registrant’s Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2011)
3.2	Bylaws of First Merchants Corporation dated October 28, 2009 (Incorporated by reference to registrant’s Form 10-Q filed on November 9, 2009)
4.1	First Merchants Corporation Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of First Merchants Capital Trust II dated as of July 2, 2007 (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 8-K filed on July 3, 2007)
4.2	Indenture dated as of July 2, 2007 (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 8-K filed on July 3, 2007)
4.3	Guarantee Agreement dated as of July 2, 2007 (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 8-K filed on July 3, 2007)
4.4	Form of Capital Securities Certification of First Merchants Capital Trust II (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 8-K filed on July 3, 2007)
4.5	First Merchants Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (Incorporated by reference to registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Form S-3 filed on August 21, 2009)
4.6	Upon request, the registrant agrees to furnish supplementally to the Commission a copy of the instruments defining the rights of holders of its (a) 5.00% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2028 in the aggregate principal amount of $5 million and (b) 6.75% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2028 in aggregate principal amount of $65 million.
10.1	First Merchants Corporation Senior Management Incentive Compensation Program, dated February 11, 2014 (Incorporated by reference to registrant's Form 10-K filed on March 14, 2014)
31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes - Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes - Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
32	Certifications Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1)
101.INS	XBRL Instance Document (2)
101.SCH	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document (2)
101.CAL	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document (2)
101.DEF	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document (2)
101.LAB	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document (2)
101.PRE	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkebase Document (2)


	(1) Filed herewith.
	(2) Furnished herewith.