Back to GetFilings.com



SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

[ X ]

Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2001

or

[     ]

Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the transition period from to

Commission file number:

PremierWest Bancorp
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Oregon
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

93-1282171
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

503 Airport Road, Medford, Oregon
(Address of principal executive offices)

97504
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 541-618-6003

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b)
of the Act:

                    None                                        

Name of exchange on which registered:


                    None                                        

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

Common Stock
(Title of Class)

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 if disclosure of delinquent filing pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [ ]

As of March 15, 2002, there were 10,964,339 shares of common stock outstanding. The aggregate market value of common stock held by non-affiliates was approximately $59 million at March 15, 2002, based on the average bid and ask prices of such stock on such date as reported by the OTC Bulletin Board System.

Documents Incorporated by Reference:

Portions of the registrant's definitive proxy statement for the 2002 annual meeting of shareholders are incorporated by reference in Part III hereof.

 

 


 

Part I

Item 1. Business

Introduction

PremierWest Bancorp ("PremierWest") was incorporated on November 26, 1999 for the purpose of becoming the holding company for PremierWest Bank, the resulting bank from the merger, completed in May 2000, of the Bank of Southern Oregon, based in Medford, Oregon, and Douglas National Bank, headquartered in Roseburg, Oregon. In April 2001, PremierWest acquired Timberline Bancshares, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Timberline Community Bank ("Timberline") with banking operations in northern California.

PremierWest conducts its business solely through PremierWest Bank (the "bank"), an Oregon state-chartered commercial bank with branch offices located mainly along the Interstate-5 corridor from Roseburg, Oregon to Redding, California. The bank has three subsidiaries: Premier Finance Company makes consumer loans; PremierWest Investment Services, Inc. offers insurance and investment products and services, and Blue Star Properties, Inc., serves solely to hold properties used as bank offices.

Products and Services

PremierWest offers its customers a broad range of banking services, principally to small and medium-sized businesses and professional and retail customers.

Loan Products

PremierWest makes commercial and real estate loans, construction loans for owner-occupied and rental properties, commercial and equipment leases, and secured and unsecured consumer installment loans. Commercial and real estate-based lending has been the primary focus of the bank's lending activities. Although PremierWest has made agricultural loans, it currently has no significant agricultural loans.

Commercial Lending

PremierWest offers specialized loans for business and commercial customers, including equipment and inventory financing, accounts receivable financing, operating lines of credit, and real estate construction loans. PremierWest also makes Small Business Administration loans to qualified businesses. A substantial portion of PremierWest's commercial loans are designated as real estate loans for regulatory reporting purposes because they are secured by mortgages and trust deeds on real property, even if the loans are made for purpose of financing commercial activities, such as accounts receivable, inventory, equipment purchases and leasing.

One of the primary risks associated with commercial loans is the risk that the commercial borrower might not generate sufficient income to repay the loan. The bank does not lend to start-up businesses, and the bank generally requires personal guarantees and secondary sources of repayment, such as real estate collateral.

 

1


 

Real Estate Lending

Real estate is commonly a material component of collateral for PremierWest's loans. Although the expected source of repayment of these loans is generally the operation of the borrower's business or personal income, real estate collateral provides an additional measure of security. Risks associated with loans secured by real estate include fluctuating land values, changing local economic conditions, changes in tax policies, and a concentration of loans within a limited geographic area.

Commercial real estate loans primarily include owner-occupied commercial properties and income-producing or farm properties. The primary risks of commercial real estate loans are loss of income of the borrower and the inability of the market to sustain rent levels. The bank mitigates commercial real estate risk by making the majority of commercial real estate loans on owner-occupied properties. PremierWest's underwriting standards also require a maximum loan-to-value ratio and a minimum period of time in which the borrower covers a minimum percentage of combined debt service, insurance and taxes.

Although commercial and commercial real estate loans generally bear somewhat more risk than single-family residential mortgage loans, commercial and commercial real estate loans tend to be higher yielding, have shorter terms and generally provide for interest-rate adjustments as prevailing rates change. Accordingly, commercial and commercial real estate loans increase the importance of interest-rate risk management while contributing to strong asset and income growth.

PremierWest originates several different types of loans that it categorizes as construction loans, including residential construction loans to borrowers who will occupy the premises upon completion of construction, residential construction loans to builders, commercial construction loans, and real estate acquisition and development loans. Because of the complex nature of construction lending, these loans have a higher degree of risk than other forms of real estate lending. The bank mitigates its risk on construction loans by lending to customers who have been pre-qualified for long-term financing and who are using contractors acceptable to PremierWest.

Consumer Lending

PremierWest, through both the bank and the finance company subsidiary, makes secured and unsecured loans to individual borrowers for a variety of purposes, including personal, home improvements, revolving credit lines, autos, boats, and recreational vehicles. Unsecured consumer loans carry significantly higher interest rates than secured loans. PremierWest maintains a higher allowance for loan loss for consumer loans, while maintaining strict credit guidelines when considering consumer loan applications.

Deposit Products and Other Services

PremierWest offers a variety of traditional bank deposit products to attract both commercial and consumer deposits through checking and savings accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit. The bank also offers travelers' checks, money orders and automated teller machines at most of its facilities.

 

2


 

The bank also has a finance company subsidiary, Premier Finance Company that originates consumer loans from its offices in Portland, Klamath Falls and Medford, Oregon. Premier Finance serves customers in these areas, as well as providing a source of loans to bank customers, where the loans may carry a higher risk than permitted under the bank's lending criteria. Through PremierWest Investment Services, Inc., a subsidiary of the bank, the company sells insurance and related financial products, including life and health insurance, and through a third-party registered broker-dealer, provides mutual funds, annuities and other investment products to its customers.

Market Area

On October 2, 2000, PremierWest Bank acquired Motor Investment Company, a Klamath Falls, Oregon consumer finance company. Motor Investment Company is an 80-year-old firm and the fourth largest independent consumer finance company in Oregon, specializing in automobile and recreational vehicles financing, and equity and personal loans. It currently has approximately $4 million in consumer loans.

On December 15, 2000, PremierWest Bank purchased Leader Mortgage Loan Corporation, the largest independent mortgage brokerage in Southern Oregon with branches in Medford, Grants Pass and Klamath Falls, Oregon, specializing in residential mortgages including FHA, VA and conventional home loans. Leader Mortgage now operates under the name "PremierWest Mortgage," as a division of PremierWest Bank.

PremierWest conducts its business in several primary market areas in southern Oregon. The Company serves Jackson County from its main office in Medford, four (4) branch offices in Medford and one branch in Central Point. Medford is the fourth largest city in the state of Oregon and is the center for commerce, medicine and transportation in southwestern Oregon. It also has two (2) full-service branches in Grants Pass, (Josephine County) Oregon, which opened during 2001. The principal industries in these areas include lumber and wood products, manufacturing and agriculture. Other manufacturing segments include electrical equipment and supplies, computing equipment, printing and publishing, fabricated metal products and machinery, and stone and concrete products. In the non-manufacturing sector, significant industries include the recreation, wholesale and retail trades, as well as medical care, particularly in connection with the area's growing retirement community.

Another principal market area is centered in Roseburg, Oregon, and the surrounding communities in Douglas County, which the Company serves from its eight (8) branches in Roseburg, Winston, Glide, Sutherlin and Drain. The Company's presence in the Roseburg market area is the result of the merger with Douglas National Bank on May 8, 2000. The economy of Douglas County has historically depended on the forest products industry, which is generally a declining industry, resulting in little economic growth and lower per capita income levels compared to other market areas along the Interstate-5 corridor.

During 2001, the PremierWest Bank contracted with a commercial leasing management company to introduce commercial equipment lease financing to its customers. Commercial leasing is an alternative to finance business equipment that primarily secures such financing.

PremierWest acquired Timberline on April 16, 2001, with eight branch locations in the County of Siskiyou, northern California. Since the acquisition of Timberline, the Company opened a mortgage and commercial loan office in Redding, California. The Company anticipates building its banking network in these new areas in the coming year.

 

3


 

Industry Overview

The commercial banking industry continues to undergo increased competition, consolidation and change. Non-insured financial service companies such as mutual funds, brokerage firms, insurance companies, mortgage companies and leasing companies are offering alternative investment opportunities for customers' funds or lending sources for their needs. Banks have been granted extended powers to better compete including the limited right to sell insurance and securities products, but the percentage of financial transactions handled by commercial banks has dropped steadily. Although the amount of deposits in banks is remaining steady, such deposits represent less than 20% of household financial assets compared to over 35% twenty-five years ago. This trend represents a continuing shift to stocks, bonds, mutual funds and retirement accounts.

Nonetheless, commercial banks are reducing costs by consolidation and exploring alternative ways of providing bank products. Although new community banks continue to be organized, bank mergers substantially outstrip formations.

To more effectively and efficiently deliver its products, banks are opening in-store branches, installing more automated teller machines ("ATMs") and investing in technology to permit telephone, personal computer and internet banking. While all banks are experiencing the effects of the changing environment, the manner in which banks choose to compete is increasing the gap between larger super-regional banks, committed to becoming national or regional "brand names" providing a broad selection of products at low cost and with advanced technology, and community banks which provide most of the same products but with a commitment to personal service and with local ties to the customers and communities they serve.

PremierWest Bancorp is subject to the supervision of and is examined by the Federal Reserve Bank. Areas subject to regulation are merger and acquisition activities, capital adequacy and intercompany transactions.

PremierWest Bank is subject to the supervision and examination by, the State of Oregon Department of Consumer and Financial Services. PremierWest Bank is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") and is subject to examination by the FDIC. In practice, the primary state regulator makes regular examinations of the bank subject to its regulatory review or participates in joint examinations with federal regulator. Areas subject to review by federal authorities include the allowance for loan losses, investments, loans, mergers, payments of dividends, establishment of branches and other aspects of operations.

Employees

As of December 31, 2001, PremierWest had 270 full-time equivalent employees. None of the employees is represented by a collective bargaining group. Management considers its relations with employees to be excellent.

 

4


 

Government Policies

The operations of PremierWest's subsidiaries are affected by state and federal legislative changes and by policies of various regulatory authorities, including those of the State of Oregon and the State of California. These policies include, for example, statutory maximum legal lending rates, domestic monetary policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Unites States fiscal policy, and capital adequacy and liquidity constraints imposed by national and state regulatory agencies.

Supervision and Regulation

PremierWest is a registered bank holding company subject to the supervision of, and regulation by, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the "Federal Reserve").

General - PremierWest is extensively regulated under federal and state law. These laws and regulations are generally intended to protect depositors, not shareholders. To the extent that the following information describes statutory or regulatory provisions, it is qualified in its entirety by reference to the particular statutory or regulatory provisions. Any change in applicable laws or regulations may have a material effect on the business and prospects of the Company. The operations of the Company may be affected by legislative changes and by the policies of various regulatory authorities. The Company cannot accurately predict the nature or the extent of the effects on its business and earnings that fiscal or monetary policies, or new federal or state legislation, may have in the future.

Federal and State Bank Regulation - PremierWest Bank, as a state chartered bank with deposits insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"), is subject to the supervision and regulation of the Oregon Director, and of the FDIC. These agencies may prohibit the Company from engaging in what they believe constitute unsafe or unsound banking practices.

The Community Reinvestment Act ("CRA") requires that, in connection with examinations of financial institutions within its jurisdiction, the FDIC evaluate the record of the financial institutions in meeting the credit needs of their local communities, including low and moderate-income neighborhoods, consistent with the safe and sound operation of those institutions. These factors are also considered in evaluating mergers, acquisitions and applications to open a branch or new facility. The Company's current CRA rating is "Satisfactory."

Banks are also subject to certain restrictions imposed by the Federal Reserve Act on extensions of credit to executive officers, directors, principal shareholders or any related interest of such persons. Extensions of credit (i) must be made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral as, and follow credit underwriting procedures that are not less stringent than, those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with persons not affiliated with the Company, and (ii) must not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features. Banks are also subject to certain lending limits and restrictions on overdrafts to such persons. A violation of these restrictions may result in the assessment of substantial civil monetary penalties on the affected bank or any officer, director, employee, agent or other person participating in the conduct of the affairs of that bank, the imposition of a cease and desist order, and other regulat ory sanctions.

 

5


 

Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act ("FDICIA"), each federal banking agency has prescribed, by regulation, non-capital safety and soundness standards for institutions under its authority. These standards cover internal controls, information and internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate exposure, asset growth, compensation, fees and benefits, and standards for asset quality, earnings and stock valuation. An institution that fails to meet these standards must develop a plan acceptable to the agency, specifying the steps that the institution will take to meet the standards. Failure to submit or implement such a plan may subject the institution to regulatory sanctions. Management believes that the Company is in substantial compliance with these standards.

Deposit Insurance - The deposits of the Company are currently insured to a maximum of $100,000 per depositor through the Bank Insurance Fund ("BIF"), administered by the FDIC. The Company is required to pay semi-annual deposit insurance premium assessments to the FDIC.

The FDICIA included provisions to reform the federal deposit insurance system, including the implementation of risk-based deposit insurance premiums. The FDICIA also permits the FDIC to make special assessments on insured depository institutions in amounts determined by the FDIC to be necessary to give it adequate assessment income to repay amounts borrowed from the U.S. Treasury and other sources or for any other purpose the FDIC deems necessary. Pursuant to the FDICIA, the FDIC implemented a transitional risk based insurance premium system on January 1, 1993. Under this system, banks are assessed insurance premiums according to how much risk they are deemed to present to the BIF. Banks with higher levels of capital and a low degree of supervisory concern are assessed lower premiums than banks with lower levels of capital or involving a higher degree of supervisory concern. The bank qualifies for the lowest premium level, and currently pays only the statutory minimum rate.

Dividends - Under the Oregon Bank Act, the bank is subject to restrictions on the payment of cash dividends to its parent holding company. A bank may not pay cash dividends if that payment would reduce the amount of its capital below that necessary to meet minimum applicable regulatory capital requirements. In addition, the amount of the dividend may not be greater than its net unreserved retained earnings, after first deducting (i) to the extent not already charged against earnings or reflected in a reserve, all bad debts, which are debts on which interest is unpaid and past due at least six months; (ii) all other assets charged off as required by the Oregon Director or state or federal examiner; and (iii) all accrued expenses, interest and taxes of the Company.

In addition, the appropriate regulatory authorities are authorized to prohibit banks and bank holding companies from paying dividends constituting an unsafe or unsound banking practice. The Company is not currently subject to any regulatory restrictions on dividends other than those noted above.

Capital Adequacy - The federal and state bank regulatory agencies use capital adequacy guidelines in their examination and regulation of financial holding companies and banks. If the capital falls below the minimum levels established by these guidelines, a holding company or a bank may be denied approval to acquire or establish additional banks or non-bank businesses or to open new facilities.

 

6


 

The FDIC and Federal Reserve have adopted risk-based capital guidelines for banks and bank holding companies. The risk-based capital guidelines are designed to make regulatory capital requirements more sensitive to differences in risk profile among banks and bank holding companies, to account for off-balance sheet exposure and to minimize disincentives for holding liquid assets. Assets and off-balance sheet items are assigned to broad risk categories, each with appropriate weights. The resulting capital ratios represent capital as a percentage of total risk-weighted assets and off-balance sheet items. The current guidelines require all bank holding companies and federally regulated banks to maintain a minimum risk-based total capital ratio equal to 8%, of which at least 4% must be Tier 1 capital. Generally, banking regulators expect banks to maintain capital ratios well in excess of the minimum.

Tier 1 capital for banks includes common shareholders' equity, qualifying perpetual preferred stock (up to 25% of total Tier 1 capital, if cumulative; under a Federal Reserve rule, redeemable perpetual preferred stock may not be counted as Tier 1 capital unless the redemption is subject to the prior approval of the Federal Reserve) and minority interests in equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries, less intangibles, except as described above. Tier 2 capital includes: (i) the allowance for loan losses of up to 1.25% of risk-weighted assets; (ii) any qualifying perpetual preferred stock which exceeds the amount which may be included in Tier 1 capital; (iii) hybrid capital instruments (iv) perpetual debt; (v) mandatory convertible securities and (vi) subordinated debt and intermediate term preferred stock of up to 50% of Tier 1 capital. Total capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital less reciprocal holdings of other banking organizations, capital instruments and investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries.

Banks' assets are given risk-weights of 0%, 20%, 50%, and 100%. In addition, certain off-balance sheet items are given credit conversion factors to convert them to asset equivalent amounts to which an appropriate risk-weight will apply. These computations result in the total risk-weighted assets.

Most loans are assigned to the 100% risk category, except for first mortgage loans fully secured by residential property, which carry a 50% rating. Most investment securities are assigned to the 20% category, except for municipal or state revenue bonds, which have a 50% risk-weight, and direct obligations of or obligations guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury or U.S. Government agencies, which have 0% risk-weight. In converting off-balance sheet items, direct credit substitutes, including general guarantees and standby letters of credit backing financial obligations, are given 100% conversion factor. The transaction-related contingencies such as bid bonds, other standby letters of credit and undrawn commitments, including commercial credit lines with an initial maturity of more than one year, have a 50% conversion factor. Short-term, self-liquidating trade contingencies are converted at 20%, and short-term commitments have a 0% factor.

The FDIC also has implemented a leverage ratio, which is Tier 1 capital as a percentage of total assets less intangibles, to be used as a supplement to risk-based guidelines. The principal objective of the leverage ratio is to place a constraint on the maximum degree to which a bank may leverage its equity capital base. The FDIC requires a minimum leverage ratio of 3%. However, for all but the most highly rated bank holding companies and for banks seeking to expand or experiencing or anticipating significant growth, the FDIC requires a minimum leverage ratio of 4%.

 

7


 

The FDICIA created a statutory framework of supervisory actions indexed to the capital level of the individual institution. Under regulations adopted by the FDIC, an institution is assigned to one of five capital categories depending on its total risk-based capital ratio, Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, and leverage ratio, together with certain subjective factors. Institutions deemed to be "undercapitalized" are subject to certain mandatory supervisory corrective actions. The Company does not believe that these regulations have any material effect on its operations.

Effects of Government Monetary Policy - The earnings and growth of the Company are affected not only by general economic conditions, but also by the fiscal and monetary policies of the federal government, particularly the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve can and does implement national monetary policy for such purposes as curbing inflation and combating recession, by its open market operations in U.S. Government securities, control of the discount rate applicable to borrowings from the Federal Reserve, and establishment of reserve requirements against certain deposits. These activities influence growth of bank loans, investments and deposits, and also affect interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits. The nature and impact of future changes in monetary policies and their impact on the Company cannot be predicted with certainty.

Changing Regulatory Structure of the Banking Industry - The laws and regulations affecting banks and bank holding companies are currently undergoing significant changes. Bills are now pending or expected to be introduced in the United States Congress that contain proposals for altering the structure, regulation, and competitive relationships of the nation's financial institutions. If enacted into law, these bills could have the effect of increasing or decreasing the cost of doing business, limiting or expanding permissible activities (including insurance and securities activities), or affecting the competitive balance among banks, savings associations, and other financial institutions. Some of these bills would reduce the extent of federal deposit insurance, broaden the powers or the geographical range of operations of bank holding companies, alter the extent of which banks will be permitted to engage in securities activities, and realign the structure and jurisdiction of various financial institution regulatory agencies. Whether or in what form any such legislation may be adopted or the extent to which the business of the Company might be affected thereby cannot be predicted with certainty.

Of particular note is legislation enacted by Congress in 1995 permitting interstate banking and branching, which allows banks to expand nationwide through acquisition, consolidation or merger. Under this law, an adequately capitalized bank holding company may acquire banks in any state or merge banks across state lines if permitted by state law. Further, banks may establish and operate branches in any state subject to the restrictions of applicable state law. Under Oregon law, an out-of-state bank or bank holding company may merge with or acquire an Oregon state chartered bank or bank holding company if the Oregon bank, or in the case of a bank holding company, the subsidiary bank, has been in existence for a minimum of three years, and the law of the state in which the acquiring bank is located permits such merger. Branches may not be acquired or opened separately, but once an out-of-state bank has acquired branches in Oregon, either through a merger with or acquisition of substantial ly all the assets of an Oregon bank, the acquirer may open additional branches.

In December 1999, Congress enacted the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (the "GLB Act") and repealed the nearly 70-year prohibition on banks and bank holding companies engaging in the businesses of securities and insurance underwriting imposed by the Glass-Steagall Act.

 

8


 

Under the GLB Act, a bank holding company may, if it meets certain criteria, elect to be a "financial holding company," which is permitted to offer, through a non-bank subsidiary, products and services that are "financial in nature" and to make investments in companies providing such services. A financial holding company may also engage in investment banking, and an insurance company subsidiary of a financial holding company may also invest in "portfolio" companies, without regard to whether the businesses of such companies are financial in nature.

The GLB Act also permits eligible banks to engage in a broader range of activities through a "financial subsidiary," although a financial subsidiary of a bank is more limited than a financial holding company in the range of services it may provide. Financial subsidiaries of banks are not permitted to engage in insurance underwriting, real estate investment or development, merchant banking or insurance portfolio investing. Banks with financial subsidiaries must (i) separately state the assets, liabilities and capital of the financial subsidiary in financial statements; (ii) comply with operational safeguards to separate the subsidiary's activities from the bank; and (iii) comply with statutory restrictions on transactions with affiliates under Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act.

Activities that are "financial in nature" include activities normally associated with banking, such as lending, exchanging, transferring and safeguarding money or securities, and investing for customers. Financial activities also include the sale of insurance as agent (and as principal for a financial holding company, but not for a financial subsidiary of a bank), investment advisory services, underwriting, dealing or making a market in securities, and any other activities previously determined by the Federal Reserve to be permissible non-banking activities.

Financial holding companies and financial subsidiaries of banks may also engage in any activities that are incidental to, or determined by order of the Federal Reserve to be complementary to, activities that are financial in nature.

To be eligible to elect status as a financial holding company, a bank holding company must be well capitalized, under the Federal Reserve capital adequacy guidelines, and to be well managed, as indicated in the institution's most recent regulatory examination. In addition, each bank subsidiary must also be well capitalized and well managed, and must have received a rating of "satisfactory" in its most recent CRA examination. Failure to maintain eligibility would result in suspension of the institution's ability to commence new activities or acquire additional businesses until the deficiencies are corrected. The Federal Reserve could require a non-compliant financial holding company that has failed to correct noted deficiencies to divest one or more subsidiary banks, or to cease all activities other than those permitted to ordinary bank holding companies under the regulatory scheme in place prior to enactment of the GLB Act.

In addition to expanding the scope of financial services permitted to be offered by banks and bank holding companies, the GLB Act addressed the jurisdictional conflicts between the regulatory authorities that supervise various types of financial businesses. Historically, supervision was an entity-based approach, with the Federal Reserve regulating member banks and bank holding companies and their subsidiaries. As holding companies are now permitted to have insurance and broker-dealer subsidiaries, the supervisory scheme is oriented toward functional regulation. Thus, a financial holding company is subject to regulation and examination by the Federal Reserve, but a broker-dealer subsidiary of a financial holding company is subject to regulation by the Securities and Exchange Commission, while an insurance company subsidiary of a financial holding company would be subject to regulation and supervision by the applicable state insurance commission.

 

9


 

The GLB Act also includes provisions to protect consumer privacy by prohibiting financial services providers, whether or not affiliated with a bank, from disclosing non-public, personal, financial information to unaffiliated parties without the consent of the customer, and by requiring annual disclosure of the provider's privacy policy. Each functional regulator is charged with promulgating rules to implement these provisions.

Under the USA Patriot Act of 2001, adopted by the U.S. Congress on October 26, 2001 to combat terrorism, FDIC insured banks and commercial banks will be required to increase their due diligence efforts for correspondent accounts and private banking customers. The USA Patriot Act requires the bank to engage in additional record keeping or reporting, requiring identification of owners of accounts, or of the customers of foreign banks with accounts, and restricting or prohibiting certain correspondent accounts.

Item 2. Properties

PremierWest conducts its banking business through 29 offices of PremierWest Bank; five are located in Jackson County, including the bank's main office, two in Josephine County, eight in Douglas County, Oregon, and nine in Siskiyou County, California. Further, the Company conducts business through PremierWest Finance Company in a leased office in Portland, and its investment company activities in southern Oregon, Motor Investment Company located in Klamath Falls, and PremierWest Mortgage Division located in Medford, Grants Pass and Klamath Falls, Oregon, and Yreka and Redding, California.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

From time to time PremierWest is involved in various legal proceedings that are incident to its business. The following information is given with respect to the more significant pending matters.

Bernard J. Woodward, et al vs. Bank of Southern Oregon (nka PremierWest Bank), Black Oak Construction, Inc., et al; Jackson County Circuit Court, Oregon filed March 1, 2001.

This matter involves a claim by the plaintiff alleging that the bank deposited checks payable to the plaintiff and Black Oak Construction, a bank customer in the amount of $930,840.32, without plaintiff's consent. Plaintiff is seeking return of the proceeds, interest and costs and has indicated an intent to seek punitive damages. The bank has denied liability and filed a counterclaim for approximately $1.16 million for losses incurred on other loans to Black Oak Construction. The dispute involves the right of the bank to deposit the proceeds of checks payable to the plaintiff and Black Oak Construction to repay certain outstanding loans to Black Oak Construction in connection with a joint construction project between the plaintiff and Black Oak Construction. The bank's counterclaim alleges the plaintiff intentionally caused Black Oak Construction to under bid other construction contracts. Discovery in the case is not yet completed. A trial date is currently scheduled for May 2002. Management believes its actions were proper; however a favorable outcome in the litigation cannot be assured.

 

10


 

Bank of Southern Oregon (nka PremierWest Bank) vs. Barry Fronek, Stanley Kelly, et al; Jackson County Circuit Court, Oregon filed in 1998; on Appeal to the Court of Appeals, State of Oregon.

The bank brought suit against the defendant borrowers and guarantors for collection of a loan owing to the bank. After a trial in 2001, the bank was awarded an amount of $1,200,000 plus interest and attorney fees. When the bank's borrowers failed to pay the loan, defendant Stanley Kelly, as guarantor, paid the total judgment in the amount of $1,475,000 but has appealed the Judgment as it applied to him arguing, among other things, that his guaranty was obtained by the bank fraudulently. Management believes the judgment will be confirmed although no assurances can be given that the appellate court will uphold the decision of the trial court judge.

 

Item 4. Submissions of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

None.

 

 

11


 

PART II

 

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters

 

Stock price quotations for the common stock of PremierWest appear on the OTC Bulletin Board, an electronic, screen-based market maintained by NASD Regulation, Inc., a subsidiary of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., under the trading symbol "PRWT." The common stock is registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, but is not currently eligible to be held in margin accounts. The following lists the high and low closing prices (the latest trade) for each period, as adjusted for subsequent stock dividends. Prior to May 8, 2000, the prices reflect the high and low closing prices during each period for PremierWest's predecessor company, the Bank of Southern Oregon, whose trading symbol was "BSOR." Prices do not include retail mark-ups, mark-downs or commissions. On March 15, 2002, the common stock was held of record by approximately 975 shareholders, a number which does not include beneficial owners who hold shares in "street name." As of March 15, 2002, the most recent date prior to the date of this proxy statement, the closing price of the common stock was $5.82 per share.

 

          2001           2000           1999
           Closing Cash            Closing Cash            Closing Cash
           Market Price Dividends            Market Price Dividends            Market Price Dividends
 

High

Low

Declared  

High

Low

Declared  

High

Low

Declared
1st Quarter $ 4.70 $ 3.69 $ -   $ 6.79 $ 5.24 $ -   $ 8.57 $ 7.14 $ -
2nd Quarter $ 5.05 $ 4.10 $ -   $ 6.55 $ 4.05 $ -   $ 8.57 $ 6.67 $ 0.04
3rd Quarter $ 5.00 $ 4.55 $ -   $ 5.36 $ 4.05 $ -   $ 7.38 $ 6.25 $ -
4th Quarter $ 6.20 $ 4.45 $ -   $ 4.94 $ 3.93 $ -   $ 7.62 $ 6.19 $ -

 

As of December 31, 2001, the Common Stock was held of record by approximately 970 shareholders.

Oregon and federal banking laws and regulations place restrictions on the payment of dividends by a bank to its shareholders. PremierWest does not currently pay cash dividends, but rather retains earnings to help fund its acquisition plans and internal growth. Any change in this policy will be dependent upon its future financial needs and economic situations.

 

12


 

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The following tables present, for the periods specified, selected unaudited consolidated financial data for PremierWest. The information is presented for illustrative purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of the financial positions or results of operations, nor is it necessarily indicative of future financial positions or results of operations.

 

(Dollars in thousands except share data and financial ratios)                        
        Years ended December 31, 
        2001   2000   1999   1998   1997
Operating Results                        
Total interest income       $ 31,810   $ 26,199   $ 20,812   $ 20,020   $ 19,649
Total interest expense       13,445   11,196   8,080   7,968   7,555
  Net interest income     18,365   15,003   12,732   12,052   12,094
Provision for loan losses       1,163   669   835   1,702   1,871
Noninterest revenue       3,788   1,930   2,080   2,162   1,515
Noninterest expense       17,906   13,362   11,542   9,062   7,630
  Income before income taxes     3,084   2,902   2,435   3,450   4,108
Provision for income taxes       1,044   1,098   707   1,214   1,362
  Net income     2,040   1,804   1,728   2,236   2,746
       
 
 
 
 
Per Share Data (1)                        
Basic earnings per common share       $ 0.20   $ 0.20   $ 0.20   $ 0.27   $ 0.33
Diluted earnings per share       $ 0.20   $ 0.20   $ 0.20   $ 0.26   $ 0.31
Dividends declared per common share       $ -   $ -   $ 0.04   $ 0.03   $ 0.03
Ratio of dividends declared to net income       0.0%   0.0%   17.3%   11.8%   8.0%
                         
Financial Ratios                        
Return on average equity       5.12%   5.96%   6.12%   8.14%   11.42%
Return on average assets       0.46%   0.56%   0.62%   0.88%   1.18%
Efficiency ratio (2)       80.83%   78.91%   77.92%   38.06%   56.06%
Net interest margin       4.71%   5.16%   5.01%   5.15%   5.41%
                         
Balance Sheet Data at Year End                        
Loans       $ 358,393   $ 236,972   $ 174,495   $ 143,148   $ 135,518
Allowance for loan losses       $ 4,825   $ 3,476   $ 3,075   $ 2,832   $ 1,570
Allowance as percentage of loans       1.35%   1.47%   1.76%   1.98%   1.16%
Total assets       $ 488,310   $ 344,246   $ 296,652   $ 264,799   $ 251,060
Total deposits       $ 430,055   $ 296,240   $ 229,745   $ 214,186   $ 194,348
Total equity       $ 43,694   $ 32,442   $ 28,224   $ 28,134   $ 25,493

 

Notes:

    1. Per share data has been retroactively adjusted for subsequent stock dividends and stock splits.
    2. Efficiency ratio is noninterest expense divided by the sum of net interest income plus noninterest income minus nonrecurring items

 

13


 

Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation

This Form 10K includes forward-looking statements containing assumptions and estimates of the management of PremierWest that are based upon currently available information. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this Form 10K statement regarding the Company's financial position, business strategies, and management's plans and objectives for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," and "intend," and words or phrases of similar meaning, as they relate to the Company or management, are intended to help identify forward-looking statements. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, they can give no assurance that such expectations will prove correct. Based upon changing conditions, the occurrence of certain risks or uncertainties, or if any underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially and adversely from those expectations and intentions. The Company does not intend to update these forward-looking statements. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company and/or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety.

PremierWest conducts a general commercial banking business, gathering deposits from the general public and applying those funds to the origination of loans for commercial, real estate and consumer loans and investments. PremierWest was created from the merger of Bank of Southern Oregon and Douglas National Bank on May 8, 2000, and the simultaneous formation of a bank holding company for the resulting bank, PremierWest Bank. The merger was accounted for as a pooling of interests. Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this statement, and the following discussion, present the Company as if the merger had taken place prior to the periods presented.

On April 16, 2001, PremierWest acquired Timberline Bancshares, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Timberline Community Bank with eight branch locations in the County of Siskiyou, northern California. This acquisition was accounted for as a purchase; accordingly, the consolidated financial statements of PremierWest include the results of operations of Timberline since acquisition date.

PremierWest's profitability depends primarily on net interest income, which is the difference between (a) interest income generated by interest-earning assets (principally loans and investments) and (b) interest expense incurred on interest-bearing liabilities (principally customer deposits and borrowed funds). Net interest income is affected by the difference (the "interest rate spread") between rates of interest earned on interest-earning assets and rates of interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities, as well as the relative amounts of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Financial institutions have traditionally used interest rate spreads as a measure of net interest income. Another indication of an institution's net interest income is its "net yield on interest-earning assets" or "net interest margin," which is net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.

To a lesser extent, PremierWest's profitability is also affected by such factors as the level of noninterest income and expenses, the provision for loan losses, and the provision for income taxes. Noninterest income consists primarily of service charges on deposit accounts. Noninterest expense consists primarily of salaries and employee benefits, professional fees, equipment, occupancy-related expenses, data processing, advertising and other operating expenses.

 

14


 

Financial Highlights

For the year ended December 31, 2001, PremierWest earned $2.0 million compared with $1.8 million for 2000. Diluted earnings per share were $0.20 and $0.20 for the year ended 2001 and 2000, respectively. Return on average shareholders' equity was 5.12% and return on average assets was 0.46% for the year ended December 31, 2001 compared with a return on average shareholders' equity of 5.96% and a return on average assets of 0.56% for 2000.

Loans and deposits grew to record highs at December 31, 2001. Loans increased from $237 million at December 31, 2000 to $358 million at December 31, 2001. Deposits increased over $134 million, or 45% since December 31, 2000 to $430 million at December 31, 2001.

Net income was $1.8 million in 2000, up 4% over 1999 earnings of $1.7 million. Diluted earnings per share was stable at $0.20 in 2000 and 1999. The return on average shareholders' equity declined to 5.96% for 2000 compared with 6.12% for 1999. Total loans grew over 35% in 2000 to $237 million at year-end, while total deposits increased 29% to $296 million during the same period.

Results of Operations

For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999, net income of $2.0 million in 2001 represents an increase of 13% over 2000. Net income of $1.8 million in 2000 represents a increase of 4.4% as compared to 1999. The increase in net income in 2001 is due to an increase of $5.2 million in net interest income and noninterest income offset by an increase of $494,000 in provision for loan losses and a $4.5 million increase in noninterest expense. Net income in 2000 increased compared to 1999 as a result of a $2.1 million increase in net interest income and noninterest income offset by a $1.8 million increase in noninterest expense.

Net Interest Income

2001 Compared to 2000. During the year ended December 31, 2001, net interest income increased by $3.4 million, ($1.4 million contributed by the Timberline operations), as compared to the same period in 2000.

Other than the increase contributed by the Timberline operations, this increase was primarily due to an increase in the volume of loans offset by a 9.3% decrease in related yields. There was also an increase in the volume of interest-bearing deposits. During 2001, the volume of average earning assets increased by approximately $100 million, while overall yields decreased approximately 83 basis points as compared to the corresponding period in the prior year. There was also an increase of $83 million in the volume of interest-bearing liabilities, including Timberline, while at the same time a 46 basis point decrease in rates paid, negatively impacting the Company's net interest margin by 45 basis points on a tax-equivalent basis.

2000 Compared to 1999. Net interest income before the loan loss provision increased 18% to $15 million for the year ended December 31, 2000, as compared to the same period in 1999.

The increase was primarily due to an increase in the volume of loans and related yields that more than offset an increase in the volume of interest-bearing deposits and borrowings and related rates paid. During the year 2000, the volume of average interest earning assets increased by approximately $39 million, while overall yields increased approximately 78 basis points as compared to the prior year. Such increases more than offset the $38 million increase in the volume of interest-bearing liabilities and 67 basis point increase in rates paid, positively impacting the company's net interest margin by 15 basis points on a tax-equivalent basis.

15


Average Balances, Interest Rates and Yields

The following tables set forth certain information relating to PremierWest's consolidated average interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and reflects the average yield on assets and average cost of liabilities for the years indicated. The yields and costs are derived by dividing income or expense by the average daily balance of assets or liabilities, respectively, for the periods presented. During the periods indicated, nonaccruing loans, if any, are included in the net loan category. The yields and costs include fees, premiums and discounts, which are considered adjustments to yield. The table reflects the effect of income taxes on non-taxable securities.

 

16


 

Average Balances and Average Rates Earned and Paid

The following table shows average balances and interest income or interest expense, with the resulting average yield or rates by category of average earning asset or interest-bearing liability:

 

 

  Year-end December 31, 2001   Year-end December 31, 2000   Year-end December 31, 1999
  Average Balance Interest Income or Expense
Average Yields or Rates
  Average Balance
Interest Income or Expense
Average Yields or Rates   Average Balance Interest Income or Expense Average Yields or Rates
(in thousands)                      
INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS:                      
Loans (2) $ 304,257 $ 27,149 8.92%   $ 212,685 $ 20,957 9.85%   $ 147,237 $ 14,470 9.83%
Investment securities                      
Taxable securities 50,555 2,984 5.90%   64,556 4,193 6.50%   68,345 4,355 6.37%
Non-taxable securities (1) 17,280 1,152 6.66%   16,364 1,141 6.97%   17,272 1,037 6.00%
Temporary investments 26,608 917 3.45%   4,736 296 6.25%   26,353 1,213 4.60%
Total interest earning assets 398,700 32,202 8.08%   298,341 26,587 8.91%   259,207 21,075 8.13%
Cash and due from banks 21,730       11,372       10,171    
Allowance for loan losses (4,854)       (3,646)       (2,968)    
Other assets
27,376
     
17,618
     
12,159
   
Total assets $ 442,952       $ 323,685       $ 278,569    
 

 

     

 

     

 

   
INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES:                      
Interest-bearing checking and                      
savings accounts $ 161,291 4,208 2.61%   $ 123,037 4,046 3.29%   $ 113,300 3,210 2.83%
Time deposits 150,980 8,692 5.76%   90,324 5,232 5.79%   69,426 3,469 5.00%
Term debt 17,734 545 3.07%   33,754 1,918 5.68%   26,488 1,401 5.29%
Total interest-bearing liabilities 330,005 13,445 4.07%   247,115 11,196 4.53%   209,214 8,080 3.86%
Non-interest-bearing deposits 67,698       44,208       38,968    
Other liabilities
5,415
     
2,074
     
2,143
   
Total liabilities 403,118       293,397       250,325    
Shareholders' equity
39,834
     
30,288
     
28,244
   
Total liabilities and                      
shareholders' equity $ 442,952       $ 323,685       $ 278,569    
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net interest income (1)   $ 18,757       $ 15,391       $ 12,995  
   

 

     

 

     

 

 
Net interest spread     4.01%       4.38%       4.27%
     
     
     
Average yield on earning assets (1) (2)     8.08%       8.91%       8.13%
Interest expense to earning assets     3.37%       3.75%       3.12%
Net interest income to earning assets (1) (2)     4.71%       5.16%       5.01%
                       

(1) Tax exempt income has been adjusted to a tax equivalent basis at a 34% effective rate. The amount of such adjustment was an addition to recorded income of $392, $388, and $263 for 2001, 2000, and 1999, respectively.

(2) Non-accrual loans of $3.7 million for 2001, $3.9 million for 2000, and $4.1 million for 1999 are included in the average balances.

 

17


 

Rate/Volume Analysis

The following tables analyze net interest income in terms of changes in the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, and changes in net interest income that are attributable to changes in yields earned on interest-earning assets and rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. The table reflects the extent to which changes in interest income and changes in interest expense are attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by the prior year rate) and changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior year volume). Changes attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated to rate.

Analysis of Changes in Interest Differential

The following table sets forth, on a tax-equivalent basis, a summary of the changes in net interest income resulting from changes in volumes and rates. Changes not due solely to volume or rate changes are allocated to rate.

 

  2001 vs. 2000   2000 vs. 1999
  Increase (Decrease) due to   Increase (Decrease) due to
      Net       Net
(in thousands) Volume Rate Change   Volume Rate Change
               
Interest-earning assets:              
Loans $ 9,023 $ (2,831) $ 6,192   $ 6,432 $ 55 $ 6,487
Investment securities:              
Taxable (909) (300) (1,209)   (241) 79 (162)
Tax-exempt 64 (53) 11   (55) 158 104
Temporary investments 1,367 (746) 621   (995) 78 (917)
Total 9,545 (3,930) 5,615   5,141 371 5,512
               
Interest-bearing liabilities:              
Deposits:              
Interest-bearing checking and savings 1,258 (1,096) 162   276 560 836
Time deposits 3,513 (53) 3,460   1,044 719 1,763
Term debt (910) (463) (1,373)   384 133 517
Total 3,861 (1,612) 2,249   1,704 1,412 3,116
               
Net increase (decrease) in net interest income $ 5,684 $ (2,318) $ 3,366   $ 3,437 $ (1,041) $ 2,396
 


 


 

Loan Loss Provision

 

The loan loss provision is based upon management's assessment of various relevant factors, including:

 

18


 

The loan loss provision reflects management's judgment of the credit risk inherent in the loan portfolio. Although management believes the loan loss provision has been sufficient to maintain an adequate reserve for loan losses, there can be no assurance that actual loan losses will not exceed the amounts that have been charged to operations.

2001 Compared to 2000. The loan loss provision during the year ended December 31, 2001, was $1,163,000 as compared to $669,000 for 2000. The Company had net charge-offs of $1.2 million during the year 2001, compared to net charge-offs of $268,000 for 2000. The provision for loan losses increased primarily because of the increase in net charge-offs for the year in connection with merged bank loan portfolios.

2000 Compared to 1999. The loan loss provision during the year ended December 31, 2000, was $669,000 as compared to $835,000 for 1999. The Company had net charge-offs of $268,000 during the year 2000, compared to net charge-offs of $592,000 for 1999. The provision for loan losses decreased during the year primarily because of a decrease in net charge-offs and the improved credit quality of the overall loan portfolio.

The loan loss provisions in 2001, 2000 and 1999 were primarily related to commercial loans that were past due and not adequately collateralized. Management has since required adherence to stringent loan policies and procedures and may require real estate to serve as additional commercial loan collateral, reducing credit risk and, as a consequence, reducing the need for additional reserve allocations for commercial loans.

Noninterest Income

2001 Compared to 2000. Non-interest income doubled ($452,000 relates to the Timberline operations) to $3.8 million as compared to $1.9 million for 2000. Most of the remaining increase relates to mortgage loan brokerage fees earned during 2001. The increase in mortgage loan brokerage fees related to PremierWest's acquisition of Leader Mortgage and a decreasing interest rate environment.

2000 Compared to 1999. Noninterest income held fairly steady at $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2000, as compared to 1999.

In general, management prices deposits at rates competitive with rates offered by the leading commercial banks in PremierWest's market area, which tend to be somewhat lower than rates offered by thrift institutions and credit unions. To promote deposit growth and create cross-selling opportunities, PremierWest has not adopted an aggressive fee structure. Deposit growth has been generated by developing strong customer relationships and cross-selling deposit relationships to loan customers. Management intends to continue promoting demand deposit products, particularly noninterest bearing deposit products, in order to obtain additional interest-free lendable funds.

 

19


 

Noninterest Expense

2001 Compared to 2000. Non-interest expense increased to 17.9 million, including a $305,000 charge for goodwill amortization for 2001, as compared to $13.4 million, including $1.0 million of merger and data conversion costs for 2000. Salaries and employee benefits increased $3.3 million ($1.0 million relating to the Timberline operations) with the increase in full-time employees supporting the level of customer service and the greater volume of Company operations. Occupancy and equipment expenses increased $1.1 million ($371,000 relates to the Timberline operations) for 2001, as compared to 2000. This increase was attributed to costs associated with a new administration annex facility for data processing and operations support, a new branch office in Grants Pass, Oregon that opened in 2001, and computer system enhancements. Communications costs including telephone network, postage and courier services increased $165,000 related to Timberline's operations and $225,000 due to additional phone and data lines between all facility locations. While the size of the Company's operations expanded, costs in other non-interest expense have also increased though to a lesser degree. Management of the Company continually reviews areas to reduce duplication of operational processes in an effort to reduce other non-interest expenses.

2000 Compared to 1999. Non-interest expense increased to $13.4 million for the year ended 2000, including $1.0 million of merger and data conversion costs, as compared to $11.5 million for 1999. Salaries and employee benefits increased $474,000 with the increase in full-time employees supporting the high level of customer service and the greater volume of Company operations. Occupancy and equipment expenses increased $443,000 for the year ended December 31, 2000, as compared to the same period in 1999. This increase was attributed to costs associated with the new headquarters and loan production facility that opened in December 1999, including additional computer software and hardware equipment.

Provision For Income Taxes

2001 Compared to 2000 and 1999. The Company's taxable income resulted in an estimated $1,044,000 (an effective tax rate of 34%) in federal and state income taxes for 2001. This compares to an effective tax rate of 38% for 2000. The effective tax rate in 2000 was higher than 2001 because in accordance with provisions of the IRC, a significant portion of merger costs incurred in 2000 were not deductible for income tax purposes. The effective tax rate for 1999 was 29%, which was lower than the expected statutory rate primarily due to the proportion of non-taxable interest income.

Financial Condition

Total assets at December 31, 2001, increased to $488 million since December 31, 2000, $102 million added with the acquisition of Timberline and $42 million due to growth, in primarily the loan area. Growth of $87 million in deposits with the Timberline acquisition and $47 million in new customer growth added $134 million, bringing deposits to $430 million. With the liquidation of $35 million of callable U.S. agency securities during 2001, federal funds sold increased by $11 million helping to make available funds for future loans. With the acquisition of Timberline in April 2001, the Company added approximately $8 million to capital resulting in the Company's capital to assets ratio of 8.95%.

 

20


 

Investment Portfolio

Investment securities provide a return on residual funds after lending activities. Investments may be in interest-bearing deposits, U.S. Government and agency obligations, state and local government obligations and government-guaranteed, mortgage-backed securities. PremierWest generally does not invest in securities that are rated less than investment grade by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization. A goal of the bank's investment policy is to limit interest-rate risk.

All securities-related activity is reported to the Board of Directors. Board review and approval are required for general changes in investment strategy. Senior management can purchase and sell securities in accordance with PremierWest's stated investment policy.

Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the time of purchase. If management has the intent and PremierWest has the ability at the time of purchase to hold a security until maturity or on a long-term basis, the security is classified as held-to-maturity and is reflected on the balance sheet at historical cost. Securities to be held for indefinite periods and not intended to be held to maturity or on a long-term basis are classified as available-for-sale. Available-for-sale securities are reflected on the balance sheet at their market value.

The following table sets forth the estimated market value of PremierWest's investment portfolio at the dates indicated.

 

  December 31,
(in thousands) 2001 2000
INVESTMENT SECURITIES AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE    
Obligations of U.S. Government agencies $ 31,681 $ 41,154
Collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities 11,819 17,083
Obligations of states and political subdivisions 16,333 15,071
Corporate bonds 3,921 -
Equity securities 324 326
  $ 64,078 $ 73,634
 

 

The contractual maturity of investment securities at December 31, 2001 is shown below. Expected maturities of investment securities could differ from contractual maturities because the borrower, or issuer, may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

 

  Amortized Estimated
  cost fair value
U.S. Government agencies:    
Due in one year or less $ 3,440 $ 3,489
Due from one to five years 33,693 34,050
Due from five to ten years 11,850 11,926
Due after ten years 2,506 2,470
Mortgage-backed securities 11,669 11,819
Collateralized mortgage obligations 324 324
  $ 63,482 $ 64,078
 

 

21


 

PremierWest sold approximately $18 million of U.S. agency mortgage-backed securities and municipal securities during 2001 realizing a net gain of $73,000. Approximately $40 million of mostly U.S. Government agency securities were called and matured during 2001.

Government securities may be pledged from time-to-time to secure public deposits. At December 31, 2001, $39 million of government securities classified as available-for-sale were pledged to secure public deposits.

As of December 31, 2001, PremierWest also held 15,950 shares of $100 par value Federal Home Loan Bank of Seattle stock, which are restricted securities. FHLB stock represents an equity interest in the FHLB, but it does not have a readily determinable market value. The stock can be sold at its par value only, and only to the FHLB or to another member institution. Member institutions are required to maintain a minimum stock investment in the FHLB, based on total assets, total mortgages and total mortgage-backed securities.

Loan Portfolio

The following table sets forth the composition of the loan portfolio in dollar amounts and in percentages at December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999.

 

  December 31, 2001   December 31, 2000   December 31, 1999
(in thousands) Amount Percentage   Amount Percentage   Amount Percentage
Commercial $ 80,866 22.6%   $ 37,878 16.0%   $ 31,516 18.0%
Real estate - construction 59,754 16.7%   48,039 20.3%   34,843 19.9%
Real estate - other 175,047 48.8%   114,902 48.5%   97,620 55.8%
Consumer installment 36,110 10.1%   30,675 12.9%   9,009 5.1%
Other 6,616 1.8%   5,478 2.3%   1,992 1.2%
Total $ 358,393 100.0%   $ 236,972 100.0%   $ 174,980 100.0%
 

 


 

 

 


 

 

 


 

 

The following table presents maturity information for the loan portfolio at December 31, 2001. The table does not include prepayments or scheduled principal repayments.

 

22


 

(in thousands) Within One Year* One to Five Years After Five Years Total
FIXED-RATE LOAN MATURITIES        
Commercial $ 3,569 $ 19,746 $ 7,261 $ 30,576
Real estate - construction 8,125 2,043 3,597 13,765
Real estate - other 3,990 9,720 45,725 59,435
Consumer installment 2,045 9,287 13,076 24,408
Other 236 175 266 677
Total $ 17,965 $ 40,971 $ 69,925 $ 128,861
         
         
ADJUSTABLE-RATE LOAN REPRICINGS        
Commercial $ 34,800 $ 14,175 $ 1,315 $ 50,290
Real estate - construction 31,750 13,322 917 45,989
Real estate - other 27,586 77,903 10,123 115,612
Consumer installment 10,409 1,293 - 11,702
Other 5,103 143 693 5,939
Total 109,648 106,836 13,048 229,532
Total Maturities and Repricings $ 127,613 $ 147,807 $ 82,973 $ 358,393
 



 

Loans due on demand and overdrafts are included in the amount due in one year or less. PremierWest has no loans without a stated schedule of repayment or a stated maturity.

At December 31, 2001, commercial loans that were more than 90 days delinquent or nonaccruing totaled $67,000 in aggregate outstanding balances, or 0.08% of the commercial loan portfolio.

At December 31, 2001, real estate loans that were more than 90 days delinquent or nonaccruing totaled $1.2 million in aggregate outstanding balances or 0.7% of the commercial real estate portfolio.

At December 31, 2001, real estate construction loans with outstanding balances more than 90 days delinquent or nonaccruing amounted to $25,000 or 0.04% of the real estate construction loan portfolio.

At December 31, 2001, PremierWest had approximately $36 million in its consumer installment loan portfolio, representing 10.0% of total loans. Installment loans totaling approximately $106,000 were over 90 days delinquent or nonaccruing on that date.

Non-performing Loans

A loan is considered by PremierWest to be non-performing when it is 90 days or more delinquent or, sooner, when the bank has determined that repayment of the loan in full is unlikely. Generally, unless loan collateral is a one to four-family residential dwelling, interest accrual ceases in 90 days (but no later than the date of acquisition by foreclosure, voluntary deed or other means) and the loan is classified as non-performing. A loan placed on nonaccrual status may or may not be contractually past due at the time the determination is made to place the loan on nonaccrual status, and it may or may not be secured. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, it is the bank's policy to reverse interest previously accrued but uncollected and charge it against current income. Interest later collected on the nonaccrual loan is credited to loan principal if, in management's opinion, full collectability of principal is doubtful.

 

23


 

When the bank acquires real estate through foreclosure, voluntary deed, or similar means, it is classified as "other real estate owned" until it is sold. On December 31, 2001, other real estate owned amounted to $1.3 million. When property is acquired in this manner, it is recorded at the lower of cost (the unpaid principal balance at the date of acquisition) or fair value. Any further write-down is charged to expense. All costs incurred from the date of acquisition to maintain the property are expensed. "Other real estate owned" is appraised during the foreclosure process, before acquisition. Losses are recognized for the amount by which the book value of the related mortgage loan exceeds the estimated net realizable value of the property.

Certain potential problem loans that management believes are adequately secured and for which no material loss is expected are not categorized as non-performing loans. Loans of this type are considered problem loans because certain circumstances known to management could cause the borrowers to be unable to comply with the existing loan repayment terms at some future date. At December 31, 2001 and 2000, potential problem loans totaled approximately $2.1 million and $4.8 million, respectively. PremierWest had nonaccrual loans of $2.1 million at December 31, 2001 and $4.8 million at December 31, 2000. Interest income that would have been recognized on nonaccrual loans if such loans had performed in accordance with contractual terms totaled $334,000 for the year ended December 31, 2001 and $539,000 for the year ended December 31, 2000. Interest income recognized on such loans during all of the periods was insignificant.

 

The following table summarizes non-performing assets by category:

  December 31,
(in thousands) 2001 2000 1999 1998   1997
Loans on non-accrual status $ 2,115   $ 4,803   $ 2,774   $ 5,003   $ 2,246
Loans past due greater than 90 days but                  
not on non-accrual status 3,594   9   123   200   1,903
Other real estate owned 1,259   1,846   1,209   73   257
Total non-performing assets $ 6,968   $ 6,658   $ 4,106   $ 5,276   $ 4,406
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Percentage of non-performing loans to total loans 1.9%   2.8%   2.3%   3.7%   3.2%
 
 
 
 
 

 

Allowance for Loan Losses

Impaired loans include all nonaccrual and restructured commercial and real estate loans. Loan impairment is measured as the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's initial interest rate, the fair value of the collateral of an impaired collateral-dependent loan or an observable market price. Interest income on impaired loans is recognized on a cash-basis method. The investment in loans for which impairment had been recognized totaled $2.1 million as of December 31, 2001 and $4.8 million as of December 31, 2000. At December 31, 2001 and 2000, the valuation allowance for loan losses related to impaired loans was $556,000 and $720,000 respectively.

 

24


 

Provision For Loan Losses

The loan loss provision represents a charge to earnings for maintaining an allowance for loan losses at a level management believes is adequate. The provision charged to operating expense is based on loan loss experience and other factors that, in management's judgment, should be recognized to estimate losses. Management monitors the loan portfolio to ensure that the reserve for loan losses remains adequate to absorb losses identified by the portfolio review process, including loans on nonaccrual status and current loans whose repayment according to the loan's repayment plan is considered by management to be in serious doubt. PremierWest takes into account loan growth and the level of delinquent and non-performing loans in its review of the portfolio, considering also such external factors as current economic conditions in the primary market area, collectibility of collateral values and guaranties and the current status of legal action for collection of loans and related guaranties .

PremierWest's allowance for loan losses totaled $4.8 million at December 31, 2001 and $3.5 million at December 31, 2000, representing 1.35% of total loans at December 31, 2001 and 1.5% of total loans at December 31, 2000. The loan loss allowance represents 69% of non-performing loans at December 31, 2001 and 52% of non-performing loans at December 31, 2000. Although management believes that it uses the best information available in providing for estimated loan losses and believes that the allowance was adequate at December 31, 2001, future adjustments could be necessary and net earnings could be negatively affected if circumstances and/or economic conditions differ substantially from the assumptions used in making the initial determinations.

The amount of the allowance for loan losses is based on a variety of factors, including:

If actual circumstances and losses differ substantially from management's assumptions and estimates, the allowance for loan losses might not be sufficient to absorb all future losses. Net earnings would be adversely affected if that occurred. Loan loss estimates are reviewed periodically. Adjustments, if any, are reported in earnings in the period in which they become known. In addition, PremierWest maintains a portion of the loan loss allowance to cover inherent losses that have not been specifically identified.

A downturn in the local Oregon and/or California economy and employment could result in increased levels of non-performing assets and charge-offs, increased loan loss provisions and reductions in income. Additionally, as an integral part of the examination process, bank regulatory agencies periodically review PremierWest's allowance for loan losses. The banking agencies could require the recognition of additions to the loan loss allowance based on their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examination.

 

25


 

The following is a summary of PremierWest's loan loss experience and selected ratios for the periods presented.

 

 

  Years Ended December 31,
(in thousands) 2001 2000 1999
Loans outstanding at end of year $ 358,393   $ 236,972   $ 174,980  
 
 
 
 
Average loans outstanding $ 304,257   $ 212,685   $ 147,237  
 
 
 
 
Allowance for loan losses, beginning of year $ 3,476   $ 3,075   $ 2,832  
Loans charged off:            
Commercial (500)   (197)   (726)  
Real estate (538)   (163)   (34)  
Consumer (297)   (147)   (74)  
Total loans charged off (1,335)   (507)   (834)  
Recoveries:            
Commercial 47   38   63  
Real estate -   47   167  
Consumer 78   15   12  
Other -   139      
Total recoveries 125   239   242  
Net loans (charged off) recovered (1,210)   (268)   (592)  
Allowance for loan losses transferred from Timberline 1,396   -   -  
Provision charged to income 1,163   669   835  
Allowance for loan losses, end of year $ 4,825   $ 3,476   $ 3,075  
 
 
 
 
Ratio of net loans charged off to average            
loans outstanding -0.40%   -0.13%   -0.40%  
 
 
 
 
Ratio of allowance for loan losses to            
ending total loans 1.35%   1.47%   1.76%  
 
 
 
 

 

The following table shows the allocation of PremierWest's allowance for loan losses by category and the percent of loans in each category to total loans at the dates indicated. PremierWest allocates its allowance for loan losses to each loan classification based on relative risk characteristics. Specific allocations represent estimated losses that are due to current credit circumstances and other available information. Unallocated portions of the allowance are intended to compensate for the subjective nature of the determination of losses inherent in the overall loan portfolio. Because the total loan loss allowance is a valuation reserve applicable to the entire loan portfolio, the portion of the allowance allocated to each loan category does not represent the total available for future losses that may occur within that loan category.

 

26


 

    At December 31,
    2001   2000   1999  
(in thousands)   Amount   Percentage of
Total Loans
  Amount   Percentage of
 Total Loans
  Amount   Percentage of
 Total Loans
 
Type of Loan:                          
Commercial   $1,208   22.6%   $1,214   16.0%   $1,112   18.0%  
Real estate construction   658   16.7%   925   20.3%   657   19.9%  
Real Estate - other   2,677   48.8%   1,207   48.5%   1,050   55.8%  
Installment and other   237   10.1%   94   15.2%   97   6.3%  
Unallocated   45   1.8%   36   0.0%   159   0.0%  
Total   $4,825   100.0%   $3,476   100.0%   $3,075   100.0%  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

As of December 31, 2001, PremierWest's specific allocation of its allowance for loan losses for commercial and real estate construction loans related to loans on nonaccrual status and an overall reserve based on credit risk ratings. Specific allocation of loan loss reserves for other real estate loans relates to loans for which management believes the borrower might be unable to comply with loan repayment terms (even though the loans are not in nonaccrual status) and for which supporting collateral might not be adequate to recover loan amounts if foreclosure and subsequent sale of collateral become necessary.

Deposits

Deposit accounts are PremierWest's primary source of funds. PremierWest offers a number of deposit products to attract both commercial and regular consumer checking and savings customers, including regular and money market savings accounts, NOW accounts, and a variety of fixed-maturity, fixed-rate certificates with maturities ranging from seven days to 60 months. These accounts earn interest at rates established by management based on competitive market factors and management's desire to increase certain types or maturities of deposit liabilities. The bank also provides travelers checks, official checks, money orders, ATM services and IRA accounts. PremierWest does not solicit or accept brokered deposits.

 

27


 

The distribution of deposit accounts by type and rate is set forth in the following tables as of the indicated dates.

 

  Years ended December 31,
  2001 2000 1999
(in thousands) Average Balance Interest Expense Average Rate Average Balance Interest Expense Average Rate Average Balance Interest Expense Average Rate
LIABILITIES                  
Interest-bearing checking & savings $ 161,291 $ 4,208 2.61% $ 123,037 $ 4,046 3.29% $ 113,300 $ 3,210 2.83%
Time deposits 150,980 8,692 5.76% 90,324 5,232 5.79% 69,426 3,469 5.00%
Borrowed funds 17,734 545 3.07% 33,754 1,918 5.68% 26,488 1,401 5.29%
Total interest-bearing liabilities 330,005 $ 13,445 4.07% 247,115 $ 11,196 4.53% 209,214 $ 8,080 3.86%
Non-interest-bearing liabilities 67,698     44,208     38,968    
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities 5,415     2,074     2,143    
Total liabilities $ 403,118     $ 293,397     $ 250,325    
                   

 

The following table sets forth the amount of time deposits as of December 31, 2001, including certificates of deposit, by time remaining until maturity.

 

  At December 31, 2001
  Time Deposits of $100,000 or More All Other Time Deposits
(in thousands) Amount Percentage Amount Percentage
Time Remaining to Maturity:        
Three months or less $ 15,715 25.7% $ 28,945 29.3%
Over three months through 12 months 35,810 58.6% 54,409 55.0%
Over 12 months 9,599 15.7% 15,520 15.7%
Total $ 61,124 100.0% $ 98,874 100.0%
 



 

Capital Resources

Shareholders' equity was $43.7 million at December 31, 2001, an increase of $11.3 million or 34.7% from December 31, 2000. As of December 31, 2001, PremierWest was in compliance with applicable regulatory capital requirements, as shown in the following table.

 

    Minimum to be Minimum to be
  Actual "well capitalized" "adequately capitalized"
Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio 10.30% 10.00% 8.00%
Tier 1 Risk-Base Capital Ratio 9.08% 6.00% 4.00%
Leverage Ratio 7.51% 5.00% 4.00%

Liquidity

Liquidity enables PremierWest to meet withdrawals of its deposits and borrowing needs of its loan customers. PremierWest maintains its liquidity position through maintenance of cash resources and the stability of its core deposit base. Liquidity has been relatively stable and adequate over its history. Short-term deposits, however, have grown while excess cash was invested on a short-term basis into federal funds sold and interest-earning deposits with the FHLB. As of December 31, 2001, PremierWest had $15.0 million in federal funds sold.

 

28


 

At December 31, 2001, certificates of deposit represented 37% of total deposits, while demand deposit accounts, or checking accounts represented 19%, and savings accounts and interest-bearing demand accounts represented 44%. Management believes that the bank will have sufficient sources of funds to meet the liquidity needs relating to deposit and savings accounts and maturing certificates of deposit for the next fiscal year.

A further source of liquidity is PremierWest's ability to borrow funds by maintaining a secured line-of-credit with the FHLB up to 15% of the Bank's total assets. As of December 31, 2001, there were $5.6 million advanced in long-term borrowings from the FHLB against PremierWest credit line. Other borrowings of approximately $5.5 million relate to repurchase agreements for customer overnight sweep accounts. The average cost of these funds is approximately 2.60%. PremierWest also has established secured credit lines of approximately $20 million through certain correspondent banks and the discount window with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.

At December 31, 2001, PremierWest had approximately $58 million in outstanding commitments to extend credit for newly approved loans and available funds for construction projects. Under the terms of such commitments, completion of specified project benchmarks must be certified before funds may be drawn. In addition, it is anticipated that a portion of other commitments will expire or terminate without funding. Management believes that PremierWest's available resources will be sufficient to fund these commitments in the normal course of business.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Like other financial institutions, PremierWest is subject to interest rate risk. Interest-earning assets could mature or reprice more rapidly than, or on a different basis from, interest-bearing liabilities (primarily borrowings and deposits with short- and medium-term maturities) in a period of declining interest rates. Although having assets that mature or reprice more frequently on average than liabilities will be beneficial in times of rising interest rates, such an asset/liability structure will result in lower net interest income during periods of declining interest rates. Interest rate sensitivity, or interest rate risk, relates to the effect of changing interest rates on net interest income. Interest-earning assets with interest rates tied to the prime rate for example, or that mature in relatively short periods of time, are considered interest-rate sensitive. Interest-bearing liabilities with interest rates that can be repriced in a discretionary manner, or that mature in relatively short periods of time, are also considered interest-rate sensitive. The differences between interest-sensitive assets and interest-sensitive liabilities over various time horizons are commonly referred to as sensitivity gaps. As interest rates change, the sensitivity gap will have either a favorable effect or an adverse effect on net interest income. A negative gap (with liabilities repricing more rapidly than assets) generally should have a favorable effect when interest rates are falling, and an adverse effect when rates are rising. A positive gap (with assets repricing more rapidly than liabilities) generally should have the opposite effect: an adverse effect when rates are falling and a favorable effect when rates are rising.

The following table illustrates the maturities or repricing of PremierWest's assets and liabilities at December 31, 2001, based upon the contractual maturity or contractual repricing dates of loans and the contractual maturities of time deposits. Prepayment assumptions have not been applied to fixed-rate mortgage loans. Demand loans, loans having no stated schedule of repayments and no stated maturity, and overdrafts are reported as due in one year or less. Allocation of deposits other than time deposits to the various maturity and repricing periods is based upon management's best estimate, taking into account, among other things, the policy statement issued by federal bank regulators on August 4, 1995.

 

29


 

(in thousands) BY REPRICING INTERVAL  
31-Dec-01 0-3 Months 4-12 Months 1-5 Years Over 5 Years Total
ASSETS          
Interest-earning assets:          
Federal funds sold and interest-earning deposits in other banks $ 16,323    $             -    $          -     $             -    $    16,323   
Securities available-for-sale 7,206    13,748    16,323   26,205    63,482   
Loans 53,537    74,076    147,807   82,893    358,313   
Total $ 77,066    $   87,824    $ 164,130   $ 109,098    $  438,118   
LIABILITIES          
Interest-bearing liabilities:          
Interest-bearing checking and savings $ 27,939    $   46,044    $   54,858   $   58,531    $  187,372   
Time deposits 44,660    91,122    21,747   2,469    159,998   
Borrowings 1,529    557    5,774    3,348    11,208   
Total $ 74,128    $ 137,723    $  82,379    $   64,348    $  358,578   
Interest rate sensitivity gap $   2,938    $ (49,899)   $  81,751    $   44,750    $    79,540   
Cumulative $   2,938    $ (46,961)   $  34,790    $   79,540     
Cumulative gap as a % of earning-assets 3.8% -53.5% 21.2% 72.9% 18.2%
           

 

For purposes of the gap analysis, loans are not reduced by the allowance for loan losses and non-performing loans, and premiums, unearned discounts and deferred loan fees are excluded.

This analysis of interest-rate sensitivity has a number of limitations. The "gap" analysis above is based upon assumptions concerning such matters as when assets and liabilities will reprice in a changing interest rate environment. Because these assumptions are no more than estimates, certain assets and liabilities indicated as maturing or repricing within a stated period might actually mature or reprice at different times and at different volumes from those estimated. The actual prepayments and withdrawals after a change in interest rates could deviate significantly from those assumed in calculating the data shown in the table. Certain assets, adjustable-rate loans for example, commonly have provisions that limit changes in interest rates each time the interest rate changes and on a cumulative basis over the life of the loan. Also, the renewal or repricing of certain assets and liabilities can be discretionary and subject to competitive and other pressures. The ability of many borrowe rs to service their debt could diminish after an interest rate increase. Therefore, the gap table above does not and cannot necessarily indicate the actual future impact of general interest movements on net interest income.

In addition to a static gap analysis of interest rate sensitivity, PremierWest also attempts to monitor interest rate risk from the perspective of changes in the economic value of equity, also referred to as net portfolio value (NPV), and changes in net interest income. Changes to the NPV and net interest income are simulated using instant and permanent rate shocks of plus and minus 200 basis points, in increments of 100 basis points. These results are then compared to prior periods to determine the effect of previously implemented strategies. If estimated changes to NPV or net interest income are not within acceptable limits, the Board may direct management to adjust its asset and liability mix to bring interest rate risk within acceptable limits. The NPV calculations are based on the net present value of discounted cash flows, using market prepayment assumptions and market rates of interest for each asset and liability product type based on its characteristics. The theoretical projec ted change in NPV and net interest income over a 12-month period under each of the instantaneous and permanent rate shocks have been calculated by PremierWest using computer simulation.

 

30


 

PremierWest's simulation analysis forecasts net interest income and earnings given unchanged interest rates (stable rate scenario). The model then estimates a percentage change from the stable rate scenario under scenarios of rising and falling market interest rates over various time horizons. The simulation model based on December 31, 2001 data, estimates that if a decline of 200 basis points occurs, net interest income could be favorably affected up to approximately 0.5%, while a similar increase in market rates would also have a favorable impact of approximately 0.6%. Because of uncertainties about customer behavior, refinance activity, absolute and relative loan and deposit pricing levels, competitor pricing and market behavior, product volumes and mix, and other unexpected changes in economic events affecting movements and volatility in market rates, there can be no assurance that simulation results are reliable indicators of earnings under such conditions.

 

 

Increase (decrease)
 in Net Interest income
(in thousands)

Net Interest
 Margin

Return on
 Equity

As of December 31, 2001      
the prime rate was 4.75% $        -  4.71% 5.12%
       
PRIME RATE INCREASE OF:      
2% to 6.75% $   430   4.80% 5.58%
1% to 5.75% $   493   4.75% 5.66%
       
PRIME RATE DECREASE OF:      
2% to 2.75% $  (123) 4.61% 4.99%
1% to 3.75% $  (228) 4.58% 4.88%
       

 

It is PremierWest's policy to manage interest rate risk to maximize long-term profitability under the range of likely interest-rate scenarios.

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

The financial statements called for by this item are included in this report beginning on page F-1.

The following tables set forth the company's unaudited consolidated financial data regarding operations for each quarter of 2001 and 2000. This information, in the opinion of management, includes all adjustments necessary, consisting only of normal and recurring adjustments, to state fairly the information set forth therein. Certain amounts previously reported have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. These reclassifications had no net impact on the results of operations.

 

31


 

2001

 

(in thousands, except per share amounts) (unaudited)        First Quarter   Second Quarter   Third Quarter   Fourth Quarter
INCOME STATEMENT DATA                      
Total interest income         $ 6,853   $ 8,100   $ 8,529   $ 8,328
Total interest expense        3,123   3,639   3,679   3,004
  Net interest income       3,730   4,461   4,850   5,324
Provision for loan losses        162   193   258   550
  Net interest income after provision for loan losses       3,568   4,268   4,592   4,774
Noninterest revenue        706   951   1,076   1,055
Noninterest expense        3,300   4,314   4,746   5,546
  Income before income taxes       974   905   922   283
Provision for income taxes        324   305   320   95
  Net Income (Loss)       $ 650   $ 600   $ 602   $ 188
         
 
 
 
Basic earnings per common share        $ 0.07   $ 0.06   $ 0.06   $ 0.01
Diluted earnings per share        $ 0.07   $ 0.06   $ 0.06   $ 0.01

 

2000

 

(in thousands, except per share amounts) (unaudited)        First Quarter   Second Quarter   Third Quarter   Fourth Quarter
INCOME STATEMENT DATA

 

                   
Total interest income         $ 5,906   $ 6,442   $ 6,957   $ 6,894
Total interest expense        2,346   2,784   3,015   3,051
  Net interest income       3,560   3,658   3,942   3,843
Provision for loan losses        186   193   215   75
  Net interest income after provision for loan losses       3,374   3,465   3,727   3,768
Noninterest revenue        414   594   529   393
Noninterest expense        2,824   3,219   3,005   3,227
  Income before income taxes       964   840   1,251   934
Provision for income taxes        342   193   380   183
  Net income before merger and data conversion costs       622   647   871   751
Merger and data conversion costs (1)        -   883   65   139
  Net Income (Loss)       $ 622   $ (236)   $ 806   $ 612
         
 
 
 
Basic earnings per common share (before merger & data conversion costs)        $ 0.08   $ 0.07   $ 0.10   $ 0.09
Diluted earnings per share (before merger & data converion costs)        $ 0.08   $ 0.07   $ 0.10   $ 0.07
Basic earnings per common share (after merger & data conversion costs)        $ 0.07   $ (0.03)   $ 0.09   $ 0.07
Diluted earnings per share (after merger & data converion costs)        $ 0.07   $ (0.03)   $ 0.09   $ 0.07

 

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

 

32


 

PART III

 

Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant

The response to this item is incorporated by reference to PremierWest's Proxy Statement for the 2002 annual meeting of shareholders scheduled for May 23, 2002, under the captions "Information Regarding Directors and Executive Officers" and "Compliance with Section 16 Filing Requirements."

Item 11. Executive Compensation

The response to this item is incorporated by reference to PremierWest's Proxy Statement for the 2002 annual meeting of shareholders scheduled for May 23, 2002, under the captions "Executive Compensation," "Stock Performance Graph," and "Director Compensation."

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

The response to this item is incorporated by reference to PremierWest's Proxy Statement for the 2002 annual meeting of shareholders scheduled to be held May 23, 2002, under the caption "Security Ownership of Management and Others."

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

The response to this item is incorporated by reference to PremierWest's Proxy Statement for the 2002 annual meeting of shareholders scheduled to be held May 23, 2002, under the caption "Transactions with Directors and Officers."

33


 

PART IV

Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K

(a)     (1)      Financial Statements:

The consolidated financial statements for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2001, 2000, and 1999 are included in this report beginning on page F-1.

         (2)      Financial Statement Schedules:

All schedules have been omitted because the information is not required, not applicable, not present in amounts sufficient to require submission of the schedule, or is included in the financial statements or notes thereto.

         (3)      The exhibits listed below are filed with, and incorporated into by reference, this report, and the list below constitutes the exhibit index.

(b)               The Company did not file any reports on Form 8-K during the quarter ended December 31, 2001.

Exhibits

3 (i) Articles of Incorporation of PremierWest Bancorp*

   (ii) Bylaws of PremierWest Bancorp*

4      Specimen Stock Certificate*

10.1 Employment Agreement between John L. Anhorn and Bank of Southern Oregon dated April 2, 1998*

10.2 Employment Agreement between Richard R. Heib and Bank of Southern Oregon dated April 2, 1998*

10.3 1992 Combined Incentive and Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan of Bank of Southern Oregon*

10.4 United Bancorp Stock Option Plan, as amended**

21    Subsidiaries of the PremierWest Bancorp

23    Consent of Symonds Evans & Company, P.C. (relating to the audited financial statements of the registrant)

*      Incorporated by reference to the registration statement on Form S-4, and all amendments thereto (commission file no. 333-96209)

**    Incorporated by reference to the registration statement on Form S-8 (commission file no. 333-40886)

 

34


 

Signatures

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

PREMIERWEST BANCORP

(Registrant)

 

By:

/s/ John L. Anhorn                                                                                                    
John L. Anhorn, President and Chief Executive Officer

Date: March 28, 2002

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

By:

/s/  John Duke                                                                                                               
John Duke, Director

Date: March 28, 2002

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Patrick Huycke                                                                                                         
Patrick Huycke, Director

Date: March 28, 2002

 

 

 

By:

/s/                                                                                                                                    
Dennis Hoffbuhr, Director

Date: March __, 2002

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Pete Martini                                                                                                             
Pete Martini, Director

Date: March 28, 2002

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Thomas Becker                                                                                                        
Thomas Becker, Director

Date: March 28, 2002

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Rickar Watkins                                                                                                        
Rickar Watkins, Director

Date: March 28, 2002

 

 

 

By:

/s/ James Patterson                                                                                                       
James Patterson, Director

Date: March 28, 2002

 

 

 

By:

/s/ John L. Anhorn                                                                                                       
John L. Anhorn, Director, President and
Chief Executive Officer

Date: March 28, 2002

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Richard R. Hieb                                                                                                        
Richard R. Hieb, Chief Operating Officer

Date: March 28, 2002

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Tom Anderson                                                                                                         
Tom Anderson, Chief Financial Officer, and
Principal Accounting Office

Date: March 28, 2002

 

35


 

EXHIBIT 21

SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT

 

Name of
Subsidiary

Jurisdiction
of Incorporation

Name Under Which
Business Is Conducted

PremierWest Bank

Oregon

PremierWest Bank
Premier Finance
PremierWest Investment Services, Inc.
Blue Star Properties
PremierWest Mortgage
Motor Investment Company

 


 

 

EXHIBIT 23

 

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8) pertaining to the 1992 Combined Incentive and Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan of Bank of Southern Oregon and the United Bancorp Stock Option Plan, as amended, of our report dated January 19, 2001, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of PremierWest Bancorp and subsidiaries (PremierWest) as of December 31, 2001 and 2000 and for the years then ended, included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2001. Our report states that we did not audit the consolidated financial statements of United Bancorp and subsidiaries (United) as of and for the year ended December 31, 1999, which were included in the consolidated financial statements of PremierWest. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose report was furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it related to the amounts included for United, was based solely on the report of the other auditors. Ou r report also contains an explanatory paragraph which states that "the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 1998, represent the combination of the consolidated financial statements of PremierWest and United, which were audited and reported on separately by other auditors. We have audited the combination of the accompanying consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 1998, after restatement for the May 2000 pooling of interests." Insofar as our report related to the amounts included for PremierWest for the year ended December 31, 1998, prior to the restatement for the May 2000 pooling of interests, it was based solely on the report of Kosmatka Donnelly & Co. LLP. Insofar as our report related to the amounts included for United for the year ended December 31, 1998, it was based solely on the report of Knight Vale & Gregory PLLC.

Portland, Oregon

 


 

 

PREMIERWEST BANCORP
AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999

 


 

REPORT OF SYMONDS, EVANS & COMPANY, P.C.,
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

To the Board of Directors and
Shareholders of PremierWest Bancorp

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of PremierWest Bancorp and subsidiary (PremierWest) as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2001. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of PremierWest's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We did not audit the 1999 consolidated financial statements of United Bancorp and subsidiaries (United), which are included in the consolidated financial statements of PremierWest as discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, and which statements reflect net interest income of approximately $5,447,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for United, is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, based on our audits and the report of other auditors, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of PremierWest Bancorp and subsidiary as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2001 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.

Portland, Oregon
January 25, 2002

F-1


 

PREMIERWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31, 2001 and 2000

($ in 000s)

 

ASSETS

 

2001

 

2000

 
Cash and cash equivalents:        
  Cash and due from banks  

$   19,731 

 

$   14,306 

  Federal funds sold  

15,000 

 

3,730 

      Total cash and cash equivalents  

34,731 

 

18,036 

Investment securities available-for-sale  

64,078 

 

73,634 

Interest-bearing deposits with Federal Home Loan Bank  

1,250 

 

Federal Home Loan Bank stock  

1,595 

 

1,490 

Loans, net  

352,791 

 

232,910 

Premises and equipment, net  

18,286 

 

11,172 

Accrued interest and other assets  

15,579 

 

7,004 

      Total assets  

$   488,310 

 

$   344,246 

         

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

       
               
Liabilities:        
  Deposits:        
    Demand  

$   82,685 

 

$   51,062 

    Interest-bearing demand and savings  

187,372 

 

125,398 

    Time  

159,998 

 

119,780 

      Total deposits  

430,055 

 

296,240 

  Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings  

5,566 

 

6,672 

  Securities sold under agreements to repurchase  

5,480 

 

6,162 

  ESOP notes payable  

162 

 

383 

  Accrued interest and other liabilities  

3,353 

 

2,347 

      Total liabilities  

444,616 

 

311,804 

Shareholders' equity:        
  Preferred stock, no par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized; none issued  

 

  Common stock, no par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized;        
    10,854,732 shares issued and outstanding (8,598,917 in 2000)  

29,480 

 

18,679 

  Retained earnings  

14,008 

 

14,514 

  Unearned ESOP compensation  

(162)

 

(383)

  Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)  

368 

 

(368)

      Total shareholders' equity  

43,694 

 

32,442 

               
      Total liabilities and shareholders' equity  

$   488,310 

 

$   344,246 



 

See accompanying notes.

F-2


 

PREMIERWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

Years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999

($ in 000s, except for earnings per common share data)

         

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Interest and dividend income:            
  Interest and fees on loans  

$   27,149

 

$   20,957

 

$   14,470

  Taxable interest on investment securities  

2,879

 

3,984

 

3,910

  Nontaxable interest on investment securities  

760

 

753

 

774

  Interest on federal funds sold  

715

 

190

 

468

  Interest-bearing deposits with Federal Home Loan Bank  

202

 

106

 

745

  Dividends on Federal Home Loan Bank stock  

105

 

209

 

412

  Securities purchased under agreements to resell  

-

 

-

 

33

      Total interest and dividend income  

31,810

 

26,199

 

20,812

Interest expense:            
  Deposits:            
    Interest-bearing demand and savings  

4,208

 

4,046

 

3,210

    Time  

8,692

 

5,232

 

3,469

  Federal funds purchased and securities sold under            
    agreements to repurchase  

184

 

952

 

813

  Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings and ESOP notes payable  

361

 

966

 

588

      Total interest expense  

13,445

 

11,196

 

8,080

Net interest income  

18,365

 

15,003

 

12,732

Loan loss provision  

1,163

 

669

 

835

Net interest income after loan loss provision  

17,202

 

14,334

 

11,897

Noninterest income:            
  Service charges on deposit accounts  

1,243

 

989

 

1,046

  Mortgage loan brokerage fees  

1,165

 

163

 

40

  Investment brokerage and annuity fees  

261

 

217

 

257

  Other commissions and fees  

916

 

425

 

544

  Gains on sales of investment securities, net  

73

 

5

 

7

  Other  

130

 

131

 

186

      Total noninterest income  

3,788

 

1,930

 

2,080

Noninterest expense:            
  Salaries and employee benefits  

10,129

 

6,850

 

6,376

  Net occupancy and equipment  

3,048

 

1,997

 

1,554

  Communications  

857

 

467

 

369

  Professional fees  

699

 

471

 

426

  Advertising  

385

 

465

 

451

  Merger costs  

-

 

962

 

-

  Other  

2,788

 

2,150

 

2,366

      Total noninterest expense  

17,906

 

13,362

 

11,542

Income before income taxes  

3,084

 

2,902

 

2,435

Provision for income taxes

1,044

1,098

707

             
Net income  

$   2,040

 

$   1,804

 

$   1,728

   
 
 
Basic earnings per common share  

$   0.20

 

$   0.20

 

$   0.20

   
 
 
Diluted earnings per common share  

$   0.20

 

$    0.20

 

$   0.20

   
 
 

See accompanying notes.

 

F-3


 

PREMIERWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999

($ in 000s, except for dividends per common share data)

 

   

Number of
shares

 

Comprehensive
income (loss)

 

Common
stock

 

Retained
earnings

 

Unearned
ESOP
compensation

 

Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)

 

Total
shareholders'
equity

               
               
               
                           
Balances at December 31, 1998  

8,268,355

 

 

$   17,354

 

$   11,265 

 

$   (890)

 

$   405 

 

$   28,134 

                             
Comprehensive income:                            
Net income  

-

 

$   1,728 

 

-

 

1,728 

 

 

 

1,728 

Other comprehensive loss -                          

unrealized losses on investment
securities available-for-sale of
approximately $2,200 (net of income
taxes of approximately $1,361), net of
reclassification adjustment for net gains
on sales of investment securities
available-for-sale included in net
income of approximately $5 (net of
income taxes of approximately $2)
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
 

-

 

(2,205)

 

-

 

 

 

(2,205)

 

(2,205)

                             
Comprehensive loss  

-

 

$   (477)

 

-

 

 

 

 

                             
ESOP compensation expense  

-

     

78

 

 

286 

 

 

364 

Cash dividends paid ($.04 per common                          

share)  

-

     

-

 

(299)

 

 

 

(299)

Dividends reinvested  

9,118

     

41

 

 

 

 

41 

Amortization of stock compensation  

-

     

-

 

16 

 

 

 

16 

Stock options exercised  

130,406

     

331

 

 

 

 

331 

Income tax benefit of stock options exercised  

-

     

114

 

 

 

 

114 

   

                       
Balances at December 31, 1999  

8,407,879

     

17,918

 

12,710 

 

(604)

 

(1,800)

 

28,224 

 

See accompanying notes.

F-4


 

PREMIERWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (continued)

Years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999

($ in 000s, except for dividends per common share data)

 

   

Number of
shares

 

Comprehensive
income

 

Common
stock

 

Retained
earnings

 

Unearned
ESOP
compensation

 

Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)

 

Total
shareholders'
equity

               
               
               
                             
Comprehensive income:                            
Net income  

 

$   1,804

 

$   - 

 

$   1,804 

 

$   - 

 

$   -

 

$   1,804

Other comprehensive income -                            
unrealized gains on investment
securities available-for-sale of
approximately $1,436 (net of income
taxes of approximately $891), net of
reclassification adjustment for net gains
on sales of investment securities
available-for-sale included in net
income of approximately $4 (net of
income taxes of approximately $1)
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
 

 

1,432

 

 

 

 

1,432

 

1,432

                             
Comprehensive income  

 

$   3,236

 

 

 

 

-

 

-

                             
ESOP compensation expense  

     

71 

 

 

221 

 

-

 

292

Stock options exercised  

191,122 

     

593 

 

 

 

-

 

593

Income tax benefit of stock options exercised  

     

97 

 

 

 

-

 

97

Purchase of fractional shares  

(84)

     

 

 

 

-

 

-

                             
Balances at December 31, 2000  

8,598,917 

     

18,679 

 

14,514 

 

(383)

 

(368)

 

32,442

 

See accompanying notes.

F-5


 

PREMIERWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (continued)

Years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999

($ in 000s, except for dividends per common share data)

 

   

Number of
shares

 

Comprehensive
income

 

Common
stock

 

Retained
earnings

 

Unearned
ESOP
compensation

 

Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income

 

Total
shareholders'
equity

               
               
               
                             
Comprehensive income:                            
Net income  

-

 

$   2,040

 

$   -

 

$   2,040

 

$   -

 

$   -

 

$   2,040

Other comprehensive income -                            
unrealized gains on investment
securities available-for-sale of
approximately $781 (net of income
taxes of approximately $485), net of
reclassification adjustment for net gains on sales of investment securities
available-for-sale included in net
income of approximately $45 (net of
income taxes of approximately $28)
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
                           
 

-

 

736

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

736

 

736

                             
Comprehensive income  

-

 

$   2,776

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

       

 

                   
Common stock issued to shareholders of                            
Timberline Bancshares, Inc.  

1,674,036

     

7,995

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

7,995

5% stock dividend  

513,945

     

2,546

 

(2,546)

 

-

 

-

 

-

ESOP compensation expense  

-

     

70

 

-

 

221

 

-

 

291

Stock options exercised  

67,834

     

119

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

119

Income tax benefit of stock options exercised  

-

     

71

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

71

                             
Balances at December 31, 2001  

10,854,732

     

$   29,480

 

$   14,008

 

$   (162)

 

$   368

 

$   43,694

   

 

     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes.

F-6


 

PREMIERWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999

($ in 000s)

         

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Cash flows from operating activities:            
  Net income  

$   2,040 

 

$   1,804 

 

$   1,728 

  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by            
    operating activities:            
      Depreciation and amortization  

1,966 

 

1,221 

 

884 

      Loan loss provision  

1,163 

 

669 

 

835 

      Gains of sales of investment securities available-for-sale, net  

(73)

 

(5)

 

(7)

      Amortization of premium (accretion of discount) on investment            
        securities, net  

(27)

 

22 

 

(13)

      Credit for deferred income taxes  

(489)

 

(348)

 

(238)

      Income tax benefit of stock options exercised  

71 

 

97 

 

114 

      Dividends on Federal Home Loan Bank stock  

(105)

 

(209)

 

(412)

      Changes in accrued interest receivable/payable and other            
        assets/liabilities  

(304)

 

(731)

 

163 

          Net cash provided by operating activities  

4,242 

 

2,520 

 

3,054 

Cash flows from investing activities:            
  Purchases of investment securities available-for-sale  

(37,298)

 

 

(40,931)

  Proceeds from maturities and calls of investment securities            
    available-for-sale  

40,160 

 

5,221 

 

15,357 

  Proceeds from sales of investment securities available-for-sale  

18,146 

 

4,801 

 

1,464 

  Proceeds from sale of Federal Home Loan Bank stock  

 

4,536 

 

  Decrease (increase) in interest-bearing deposits with Federal Home            
    Loan Bank  

(1,250)

 

1,000 

 

5,000 

  Loan originations, net  

(64,187)

 

(62,733)

 

(33,564)

  Purchases of premises and equipment, net  

(5,928)

 

(2,097)

 

(4,603)

  Acquired net assets of Timberline Bancshares, Inc., net of cash and            
    cash equivalents acquired of $24,314  

18,118 

 

 

  Other  

-

 

 

24 

          Net cash used in investing activities  

(32,239)

 

(49,272)

 

(57,253)

Cash flows from financing activities:            
  Net increase in deposits  

46,361 

 

66,495 

 

15,559 

  Net increase (decrease) in Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings  

(1,106)

 

(10,730)

 

9,268 

  Net increase (decrease) in securities sold under agreements            
    to repurchase  

(682)

 

(12,438)

 

6,789 

  Stock options exercised  

119 

 

593 

 

331 

  Dividends reinvested  

 

 

41 

  Cash dividends paid  

 

 

(299)

          Net cash provided by financing activities  

44,692 

 

43,920 

 

31,689 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  

16,695 

 

(2,832)

 

(22,510)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year  

18,036 

 

20,868 

 

43,378 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year  

$   34,731 

 

$   18,036 

 

$   20,868 

   
 
 

See accompanying notes.

F-7


1. Description of business and summary of significant accounting policies

Principles of consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of PremierWest Bancorp and its wholly-owned subsidiary, PremierWest Bank (collectively, "PremierWest" or "the Bank"). PremierWest Bank's wholly-owned subsidiaries include PremierWest Investment Services, Inc., Premier Finance Company, and Blue Star Properties, Inc. In addition, the accompanying consolidated financial statements have been retroactively restated to reflect PremierWest Bancorp becoming the bank holding company for PremierWest Bank and for PremierWest Bancorp's merger with United Bancorp (United) in May 2000 which was accounted for as a pooling-of-interests (see Note 2). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Description of business

The Bank conducts a general banking business and primarily operates in one business segment. The Bank's service area primarily includes Jackson, Josephine, Douglas, and Klamath counties of southern Oregon and Siskiyou County of northern California. Its activities include the usual lending and deposit functions of a commercial bank: commercial, real estate, installment and mortgage loans; checking, time deposit and savings accounts; mortgage loan brokerage services; automated teller machines (ATMs) and safe deposit facilities.

Method of accounting

The Bank prepares its consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and prevailing practices within the banking industry. The Bank utilizes the accrual method of accounting which recognizes income when earned and expenses when incurred. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Cash and cash equivalents

For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, money market funds, amounts due from banks and federal funds sold. Generally, federal funds are sold for one-day periods.

The Bank maintains balances in correspondent bank accounts which, at times, may exceed federally insured limits. Management believes that its risk of loss associated with such balances is minimal due to the financial strength of the correspondent banks. The Bank has not experienced any losses in such accounts.

F-8


 

1. Description of business and summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information ($ in 000s)

During 2001, 2000 and 1999, noncash transactions resulted from unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities available-for-sale, net of income taxes, a stock dividend and the income tax benefit of stock options exercised, as disclosed in the accompanying consolidated statements of changes in shareholders' equity. In addition, noncash transactions included the following for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999:

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Transfers of loans to other real estate

 

$   587

 

$   574

 

$   1,136

ESOP compensation expense, including market-to-market

           
 

adjustments

 

291

 

292

 

364

During 2001, 2000 and 1999, the Bank paid approximately $13,470, $10,967 and $7,989, respectively, in interest expense.

Investment securities available-for-sale

Investment securities available-for-sale are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported as other comprehensive income or loss, net of income taxes.

Gains or losses on the sales of available-for-sale securities are determined using the specific-identification method. Premiums and discounts on available-for-sale securities are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the period to maturity.

Declines in the fair value of individual available-for-sale securities below their cost that are other than temporary would result in write-downs of the individual securities to their fair value. The related write-downs would be included in earnings as realized losses. Management believes that all unrealized losses on investment securities available-for-sale as of December 31, 2001 and 2000 are temporary.

Federal Home Loan Bank

The Bank's interest-bearing deposits with Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) mature within one year and are carried at cost.

The Bank's investment in FHLB stock is carried at par value, which approximates fair value. As a member of the FHLB system, the Bank is required to maintain a minimum level of investment in FHLB stock based on specific percentages of its outstanding mortgages, total assets or FHLB advances. At December 31, 2001 and 2000, the Bank met its minimum required investment. The Bank may request redemption at par value of any FHLB stock in excess of the minimum required investment. Stock redemptions are at the discretion of FHLB.

F-9


1. Description of business and summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

Loans

Loans are stated at the amount of unpaid principal, reduced by the allowance for loan losses and deferred loan fees. The allowance for loan losses represents management's recognition of the assumed risks of extending credit and the quality of the existing loan portfolio. The allowance is established to absorb known and inherent losses in the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date. The allowance is maintained at a level considered adequate to provide for estimated loan losses based on management's assessment of various factors affecting the portfolio. Such factors include historical loss experience; review of problem loans; underlying collateral values and guaranties; current economic conditions; legal representation regarding the outcome of pending legal action for collection of loans and related loan guaranties; and an overall evaluation of the quality, risk characteristics and concentration of loans in the portfolio. The allowance is based on estimates, and ultimate losses may vary from the current estimates. These estimates are reviewed periodically, and, as adjustments become necessary, they are reported in operations in the periods in which they become known. The allowance is increased by provisions charged to operations and reduced by loans charged-off, net of recoveries.

The Bank considers loans to be impaired when management believes that it is probable that all amounts due will not be collected according to the contractual terms. Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, the loan's obtainable market price or the fair value of the loan's underlying collateral or related guaranty. Since a significant portion of the Bank's loans are collateralized by real estate, the Bank primarily measures impairment based on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral or related guaranty. In certain other cases, impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate. Amounts deemed impaired are either specifically allocated for in the allowance for loan losses or reflected as a partial charge-off of the loan balance. Smaller balance homogeneous loans (typically installment loans) are collectively evaluated for impairment. Accordingly, the Bank does not separately identify individual installment loans for impairment disclosures. Generally, the Bank evaluates a loan for impairment when it is placed on nonaccrual status. All of the Bank's impaired loans at December 31, 2001 and 2000 were on nonaccrual status.

The accrual of interest on impaired loans is discontinued when, in management's opinion, the borrower may be unable to make payments as they become due. When interest accrual is discontinued, all unpaid accrued interest is reversed. Interest income is subsequently recognized only to the extent cash payments are received.

Loan origination and commitment fees, net of certain direct loan origination costs, are generally recognized as an adjustment of the yield of the related loan.

Interest income on all loans is accrued as earned on the simple interest method.

Various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Bank's allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require the Bank to recognize additions to the allowance based on their judgment of the information available to them at the time of their examinations.

F-10


 

1. Description of business and summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

Premises and equipment

Premises and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment is computed on the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or terms of the leases. Amortization of leasehold improvements is included in depreciation and amortization expense in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Goodwill ($ in 000s)

Goodwill is the excess of the cost over fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations. Goodwill is amortized on the straight-line method, generally over a 20-year period (see "recently issued accounting standards" later in Note 1). In addition, it is the Bank's policy to review goodwill for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its investment in the underlying businesses that gave rise to such goodwill may not be recoverable. At December 31, 2001 and 2000, accrued interest and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets includes goodwill, net of accumulated amortization, of approximately $6,948 and $717, respectively. Goodwill amortization for 2001 and 2000 was approximately $305 and $20, respectively. There was no goodwill amortization in 1999.

Other real estate

Other real estate, acquired through foreclosure or deeds in lieu of foreclosure, is carried at the lower of cost or estimated net realizable value. When the property is acquired, any excess of the loan balance over the estimated net realizable value is charged to the allowance for loan losses. Holding costs, subsequent write-downs to net realizable value, if any, or any disposition gains or losses are included in noninterest income and expense.

Shareholders' equity

Business combination information (see Note 2), basic and diluted earnings per common share (see Note 14), cash dividends per common share, ESOP information (see Note 16) and stock option plan information (see Note 17) have been adjusted to give retroactive effect to a 5% stock dividend issued in 2001.

Advertising

Advertising costs are generally charged to expense during the year in which they are incurred.

Income taxes

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are reflected at currently enacted income tax rates applicable to the period in which the deferred tax assets or liabilities are expected to be realized or settled. As changes in tax laws or rates are enacted, deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted through the provision (credit) for income taxes.

F-11


 

1. Description of business and summary of significant accounting policies (continued)

Recently issued accounting standards

In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 141, "Business Combinations," and SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets." These statements make significant changes to the accounting for business combinations and goodwill. SFAS No. 141 eliminates the pooling-of-interests method of accounting and requires that the purchase method of accounting be used for business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001. SFAS No. 142 discontinues the practice of amortizing goodwill and requires that goodwill be continually evaluated for impairment and be written-down when appropriate. SFAS No. 142 also requires that other intangible assets that have been separately identified and accounted for continue to be amortized over a determinable useful life. SFAS No. 142 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. Application of the non-amortization provisions of SFAS No. 142 will eliminate the Bank's future amortization of goodwill. However, beginning in 2002, the Bank will perform the first of the required goodwill impairment tests to determine if an impairment loss should be recognized. Management has not yet determined the effect that these impairment tests will have on the Bank's consolidated financial position or results of operations.

In June 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations." SFAS No. 143 addresses financial accounting and reporting obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets and the associated asset retirement costs. SFAS No. 143 is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2002. Management does not expect that the adoption of SFAS No. 143 will have a material effect on the Bank's consolidated financial statements.

In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets." SFAS No. 144 addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets. This statement supersedes SFAS No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of," and provides guidance on the classification and accounting for such assets when held for sale or abandonment. SFAS No. 144 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. Management does not expect that the adoption of SFAS No. 144 will have a material effect on the Bank's consolidated financial statements.

Reclassifications

Certain amounts in 2000 and 1999 have been reclassified to conform with the 2001 presentation.

2. Business combinations ($ in 000s, except share data)

On April 16, 2001, the Bank completed the acquisition of Timberline Bancshares, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Timberline Community Bank (collectively, "Timberline"). The Bank issued approximately 1.758 million shares of its common stock valued at approximately $7,995 and approximately $5,595 in cash to Timberline shareholders in connection with the acquisition. In addition, the Bank incurred approximately $791 in acquisition costs. The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the assets and liabilities of Timberline have been recorded by the Bank at their respective estimated fair values at the time of the completion of the transaction, and the results of operations of Timberline have been included with those of the Bank since the date of the acquisition. The excess of the Bank's purchase price over the estimated net fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed is reported as goodwill and was amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of 20 years.

F-12


 

2. Business combinations ($ in 000s, except share data) (continued)

The estimated fair values of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date are summarized as follows:

Assets:
Cash and due from banks

$   4,614

Federal funds sold

19,700

Investment securities

10,159

Loans, net

56,040

Premises and equipment

2,847

Other assets

8,604

Total assets acquired

$   101,964


Liabilities:
Deposits

$   86,800

Other liabilities

783

Total liabilities assumed

87,583

Net assets acquired

14,381

$   101,964


 

The following pro forma information presents the Bank's consolidated results of operations as if the acquisition of Timberline had occurred at the beginning of the periods presented below. The pro forma information does not purport to be indicative of the actual results of operations that would have occurred had the transaction taken place at the beginning of the periods presented or the future results of operations.

Years ended
December 31,

2001

2000

Total interest and non-interest income

$   37,694

$   35,600

Net income

1,436

2,262

Basic earnings per common share

0.13

0.21

Diluted earnings per common share

0.13

0.21

 

Effective May 8, 2000, PremierWest Bancorp became the holding company for PremierWest Bank and acquired United Bancorp and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Douglas National Bank (collectively, "United"). The merger was affected by issuing approximately 3.902 million shares of PremierWest common stock in exchange for 100% of the outstanding shares of United common stock. The merger was accounted for as a pooling-of-interests and, accordingly, all prior period consolidated financial statements of PremierWest have been restated to include the accounts and transactions of United. All information in the accompanying consolidated financial statements concerning common stock, employee stock plans and per share data has been restated on an equivalent share basis.

F-13


2. Business combinations ($ in 000s, except share data) (continued)

Net interest income and net income of PremierWest and United on a separate company basis for the three-month period ended March 31, 2000 (unaudited) and the year ended December 31, 1999 were as follows:

Three-month period ended

March 31, 2000 (unaudited)

Year ended December 31, 1999

PremierWest

United

PremierWest

United

Net interest income

$   2,017

$   1,525

$   7,285

$   5,447

Net income

410

211

1,241

487

There were no material transactions between PremierWest and United prior to the merger. The effects of conforming United's accounting policies to those of PremierWest were not significant.

3. Cash and due from banks ($ in 000s)

The Bank was required to maintain an average reserve balance of approximately $2,582 at December 31, 2001 with the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) or maintain such reserve balance in the form of cash. This requirement was met by holding cash and maintaining an average reserve balance with the FRB in excess of this amount. The Bank was not required to maintain a reserve balance with the FRB at December 31, 2000.

4. Investment securities available-for-sale ($ in 000s)

Investment securities available-for-sale at December 31, 2001 and 2000 consisted of the following:

Gross

Gross

Amortized

unrealized

unrealized

Estimated

2001

cost

gains

losses

fair value

U.S. Government and agency
securities

$   31,263

$   453

$   35

$   31,681

Mortgage-backed securities and
collateralized mortgage obligations

11,669

161

11

11,819

Obligations of state and political
subdivisions

16,255

162

84

16,333

Corporate bonds

3,971

-

50

3,921

Equity securities

324

-

-

324

$   63,482

$   776

$   180

$   64,078





F-14


4. Investment securities available-for-sale ($ in 000s) (continued)

Gross

Gross

Amortized

unrealized

unrealized

Estimated

2000

Cost

gains

losses

fair value

U.S. Government and agency
securities

$   41,531

$   27

$   404

$   41,154

Mortgage-backed securities and
collateralized mortgage obligations

17,198

52

167

17,083

Obligations of state and political
subdivisions

15,176

84

189

15,071

Equity securities

326

-

-

326

$   74,231

$   163

$   760

$   73,634





The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investment securities available-for-sale at December 31, 2001, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities, because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations, with or without call or prepayment penalties.

Amortized

Estimated

cost

fair value

Due in one year or less

$   3,440

$   3,489

Due after one year through five years

33,693

34,050

Due after five years through ten years

11,850

11,926

Due after ten years

2,506

2,470

Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations

11,669

11,819

Equity securities

324

324

$   63,482

$   64,078



Investment securities available-for-sale with a carrying value of approximately $38,760 and $39,337 at December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively, were pledged to secure public deposits, FHLB borrowings, repurchase agreement deposit accounts and for other purposes as required or permitted by law.

Gross realized gains and losses on sales of investment securities available-for-sale in 2001, 2000 and 1999 were as follows:

   

Gross

 

Gross

   
   

realized

 

realized

 

Net gains

   

gains

 

losses

 

on sales

2001

 

$   136

 

$   63

 

$   73

2000

 

10

 

5

 

5

1999

 

7

 

-

 

7

F-15


 

5. Loans ($ in 000s)

Loans at December 31, 2001 and 2000 consisted of the following:

2001

2000

Commercial

$   80,866

$   37,878

Real estate - construction

59,754

48,039

Real estate - other

175,047

114,902

Consumer installment

36,110

30,675

Other

6,616

5,478

358,393

236,972

Less:
Allowance for loan losses

4,825

3,476

Deferred loan fees

777

586

5,602

4,062

Loans, net

$   352,791

$   232,910



The Bank's market area consists principally of Jackson, Josephine, Douglas and Klamath counties of southern Oregon and Siskiyou County of northern California. A substantial portion of the Bank's loans are collateralized by real estate in these geographic areas and, accordingly, the ultimate collectibility of a substantial portion of the Bank's loan portfolio is susceptible to changes in the respective local market conditions.

In the normal course of business, the Bank participates portions of loans to third parties in order to extend the Bank's lending capability or to mitigate risk. At December 31, 2001 and 2000, the portion of these loans participated to third parties (which are not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements) totaled approximately $1,649 and $3,078, respectively.

6. Allowance for loan losses ($ in 000s)

Transactions in the allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 were as follows:

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Balance at beginning of the year

 

$   3,476 

 

$   3,075 

 

$   2,832 

             

Loan loss provision

 

1,163 

 

669 

 

835 

Timberline allowance for loan losses at date of acquisition

 

1,396 

 

- 

 

- 

Loans charged-off

 

(1,335)

 

(507)

 

(834)

Recoveries of loans previously charged-off

 

125 

 

239 

 

242 

             

Balance at end of the year

 

$   4,825 

 

$   3,476 

 

$   3,075 

   
 
 

F-16


6. Allowance for loan losses ($ in 000s) (continued)

Loans on nonaccrual status at December 31, 2001 and 2000 were approximately $2,115 and $4,803, respectively. Interest income which would have been realized on such nonaccrual loans if they had remained current in 2001, 2000 and 1999 was approximately $334, $539 and $410, respectively. Loans contractually past due 90 days or more on which the Bank continued to accrue interest at December 31, 2001 and 2000 were insignificant. As of December 31, 2001 and 2000, there were no commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers whose loans had been modified.

At December 31, 2001 and 2000, the Bank had approximately $2,115 and $4,803, respectively, in impaired loans, which are also nonaccrual loans as disclosed above. Impaired loans had a valuation allowance of approximately $556 and $720 at December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively. The average recorded investment in impaired loans was approximately $3,706, $3,885 and $4,143 in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively. Interest income recognized on impaired loans in 2001, 2000 and 1999 was insignificant.

7. Premises and equipment ($ in 000s)

Premises and equipment at December 31, 2001 and 2000 consisted of the following:

2001

2000

Land and improvements

$   3,413

$   2,378

Buildings and leasehold improvements

11,884

7,245

Furniture and equipment

8,937

6,188

24,234

15,811

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

6,617

4,956

17,617

10,855

Construction in progress

669

317

Premises and equipment, net

$   18,286

$   11,172



8. Time deposits ($ in 000s)

Time deposits in excess of $100 aggregated approximately $61,124 and $50,814 at December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

At December 31, 2001, the scheduled annual maturities of all time deposits were approximately as follows:

2002

$   134,879

2003

14,333

2004

5,026

2005

2,957

2006

2,616

Thereafter

187

$   159,998


F-17


9. FHLB borrowings ($ in 000s)

The Bank had long-term borrowings outstanding with the FHLB totaling $5,566 and $6,672 as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively. The Bank makes monthly principal and interest payments on the long-term borrowings which mature between 2001 and 2014 and bear interest at rates ranging from 5.82% to 7.63%. The Bank also participates in the Cash Management Advance Program (the Program) with the FHLB. As of December 31, 2001, and 2000, the Bank had no borrowings outstanding under the Program. Under the Program, the Bank had available borrowings of approximately $72,212 as of December 31, 2001, with interest at the FHLB's cash management rate. All outstanding borrowings with the FHLB are collateralized by a blanket pledge agreement on the Bank's FHLB stock, any funds on deposit with the FHLB and investment securities available-for-sale and loans.

10. Federal funds purchased ($ in 000s)

Federal funds purchased generally mature within one to four days from the transaction date. Information concerning federal funds purchased for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 is summarized as follows:

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Average balance during the year

 

$   17

 

$   3,286

 

$   2,538

Average interest rate during the year

 

3.4%

 

6.8%

 

5.4%

Maximum month-end balance during the year

 

$   700

 

$   6,370

 

$   6,380

The Bank maintains federal funds lines with correspondent banks as a back-up source of liquidity. As of December 31, 2001, the Bank had approximately $20,000 of federal funds lines available to draw against on an uncollateralized basis.

11. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase ($ in 000s)

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase represent short-term borrowings with maturities which do not exceed 90 days. The following is a summary of such short-term borrowings for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999:

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Average balance during the year

 

$   7,044

 

$   14,886

 

$   15,041

Average interest rate during the year

 

2.6%

 

4.9%

 

4.5%

Maximum month-end balance during the year

 

$   7,636

 

$   23,464

 

$   17,883

12. Off-balance sheet financial instruments ($ in 000s)

In the normal course of business, the Bank is a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest-rate risk in excess of amounts recognized in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The contractual amounts of these instruments reflect the extent of the Bank's involvement in these particular classes of financial instruments. As of December 31, 2001 and 2000, the Bank had no commitments to extend credit at below-market interest rates and held no significant derivative financial instruments.

F-18


12. Off-balance sheet financial instruments ($ in 000s) (continued)

The Bank's exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Bank uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. The distribution of commitments to extend credit approximates the distribution of loans outstanding.

A summary of the Bank's off-balance sheet financial instruments at December 31, 2001 and 2000 is approximately as follows:

2001

2000

Commitments to extend credit

$   58,075

$   45,129

Standby letters of credit

2,005

590

Total off-balance sheet financial instruments

$   60,080

$   45,719



Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of fees. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Bank evaluates each customer's creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if it is deemed necessary by the Bank upon extension of credit, is based on management's credit evaluation of the counterparty. Collateral held for commitments varies but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property and equipment, residential real estate and income-producing commercial properties.

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Bank to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. These guaranties are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. Collateral held, if required, varies as specified above.

13. Income taxes ($ in 000s)

The provision (credit) for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 was approximately as follows:

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Current:

           
 

Federal

 

$   1,295 

 

$   1,207 

 

$   780 

 

State

 

238 

 

239 

 

165 

     

1,533 

 

1,446 

 

945 

Deferred

 

(489)

 

(348)

 

(238)

               

Provision for income taxes

 

$   1,044 

 

$   1,098 

 

$   707 

   
 
 

F-19


 

13. Income taxes ($ in 000s) (continued)

The provision for income taxes results in effective tax rates which are different than the federal income tax statutory rate. The nature of the differences for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 were approximately as follows:

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Expected federal income tax provision at statutory

           
 

rate of 34%

 

$   1,049 

 

$   987

 

$   828 

State income taxes, net of federal effect

 

148 

 

158

 

108 

Effect of non-taxable interest income, net

 

(234)

 

(254)

 

(232)

Non-deductible merger costs

 

- 

 

218

 

- 

Other, net

 

81 

 

(11)

 

3 

               

Provision for income taxes

 

$   1,044 

 

$   1,098

 

$   707 

   
 
 

The components of the net deferred tax assets at December 31, 2001 and 2000 were approximately as follows:

2001

2000

Assets:
Allowance for loan losses

$   1,371

$   813

Benefit plans

459

234

Net unrealized losses on investment securities available-for-sale

-

229

Other

76

260

Total deferred tax assets

1,906

1,536

Liabilities:
Net unrealized gains on investment securities available-for-sale

228

-

FHLB stock dividends

605

565

Premises and equipment

443

3

Other

358

-

Total deferred tax liabilities

1,634

568

Net deferred tax assets

$   272

$   968



Management believes, primarily based upon the Bank's historical performance, that the net deferred tax assets will be recognized in the normal course of operations and, accordingly, management has not reduced net deferred tax assets by a valuation allowance.

The Bank made income tax payments of approximately $1,107, $1,040 and $633 during 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively.

F-20


 

14. Basic and diluted earnings per common share ($ in 000s, except per share amounts)

The Bank's basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The Bank's diluted earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding plus dilutive common shares related to stock options.

The numerators and denominators used in computing basic and diluted earnings per common share for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 can be reconciled as follows:

Net income

Shares

Per-share

(numerator)

(denominator)

amount

2001
Basic earnings per common share -
Income available to common
shareholders

$   2,040

10,312,754

$   0.20


Effect of assumed conversion of stock
options

-

112,010

Diluted earnings per common share

$   2,040

10,424,764

$   0.20




2000
Basic earnings per common share -
Income available to common
shareholders

$   1,804

9,019,615

$   0.20


Effect of assumed conversion of stock
options

-

108,441

Diluted earnings per common share

$   1,804

9,128,056

$   0.20




1999
Basic earnings per common share -
Income available to common
shareholders

$   1,728

8,533,550

$   0.20


Effect of assumed conversion of stock
options

-

257,652

Diluted earnings per common share

$   1,728

8,791,202

$   0.20




15. Transactions with related parties ($ in 000s)

Some of the officers and directors (and the companies with which they are associated) are customers of, and have had banking transactions with, the Bank in the ordinary course of the Bank's business. In addition, the Bank expects to continue to have such banking transactions in the future. All loans, and commitments to loans, to such parties are generally made on the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other persons. In the opinion of management, these transactions do not involve more than the normal risk of collectibility or present any other unfavorable features.

 

F-21


 

15. Transactions with related parties ($ in 000s) (continued)

An analysis of the activity with respect to loans to directors and officers of the Bank for the year ended December 31, 2001 was approximately as follows:

Balance at December 31, 2000

$   7,999 

Additions

4,283 

Repayments

(4,397)

Balance at December 31, 2001

$   7,885 


16. Benefit plans ($ in 000s)

401(k) profit sharing plan

The Bank maintains a 401(k) profit sharing plan (the Plan) that covers substantially all full-time employees. Employees may make voluntary tax-deferred contributions to the Plan, and the Bank's contributions to the Plan are at the discretion of the Board of Directors (the Board), not to exceed the amount deductible for federal income tax purposes. Employees vest in the Bank's contributions to the Plan over a period of seven years. Total amounts charged to operations under the Plan were approximately $106, $69 and $74 for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively.

ESOP

The Bank sponsors a leveraged employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) that covers substantially all previous employees of United. The Bank makes annual contributions to the ESOP. The amount of the annual contribution is discretionary, except that it must be sufficient to enable the ESOP to service its debt. The debt of the ESOP consists of notes payable to KeyBank with interest at fixed rates from 7.00% to 7.70%. The debt is due in quarterly installments and is scheduled to mature in 2002 and 2003. The initial ESOP shares were pledged as collateral for the debt. As the debt is repaid, shares are released and allocated to former United employees currently employed by the Bank, based on the proportion of debt paid. The debt of the ESOP is recorded as a liability, and the shares pledged as collateral are reported as unearned ESOP compensation in the shareholders' equity section of the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. As shares are released from collateral, the Bank reports compensation expense equal to the current market price of the shares for all shares acquired by the ESOP. The difference between the allocated shares' market value and the cost of the allocated shares in 2001, 2000 and 1999 was approximately $70, $71 and $78, respectively, and is included in salaries and employee benefits expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and in common stock in the accompanying consolidated statements of shareholders' equity. ESOP compensation expense related to the payment of debt was approximately $221, $221 and $286 in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The ESOP shares are considered outstanding for earnings per share computations. Cash dividends paid on unallocated shares which are collateral for debt are used to repay the ESOP debt. Cash dividends paid on allocated shares are distributed to the accounts of the ESOP participants.

F-22


 

16. Benefit plans ($ in 000s) (continued)

Shares held by the ESOP as of December 31, 2001 and 2000 were classified as follows:

2001

2000

Allocated shares:
Prior to January 1, 1993

64,748

64,748

Subsequent to December 31, 1992

494,224

454,007

558,972

518,755

Unallocated shares

61,365

101,582

Total ESOP shares

620,337

620,337



The approximate fair market value of the Bank's unallocated shares at December 31, 2001 and 2000 was approximately $356 and $492, respectively.

17. Stock option plan ($ in 000s, except per share amounts)

Under the Bank's Stock Option Plan (the Stock Option Plan), it may grant Incentive Stock Options (ISOs) and Non-qualified Stock Options (NSOs) to key employees. The option price of ISOs is the fair market value at the date of grant, and the option price of NSOs is to be a price not less than 85% of the fair market value at the date of grant. The options generally vest over time, and all options generally expire after a period of ten years. However, the Board has the right to suspend or terminate the Stock Option Plan at any time, except with respect to the remaining options outstanding.

SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," (SFAS No. 123) requires companies, such as the Bank, that use the intrinsic value method to account for employee stock options to provide pro forma disclosures of the net income and earnings per share effect of applying the fair value-based method of accounting for stock options. The effect of applying the fair value-based method to stock options granted in the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 resulted in an estimated weighted-average grant date fair value of $2.07, $2.09 and $1.21, respectively. Had compensation cost been determined based on the fair value of the options at the date of grant, the Bank's pro forma net income, basic earnings per common share and diluted earnings per common share for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 would have been as follows:

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Net income

As reported

 

$   2,040

 

$   1,804

 

$   1,728

 

Pro forma

 

2,115

 

1,690

 

1,600

               

Basic earnings per common share

As reported

 

$   0.20

 

$   0.20

 

$   0.20

 

Pro forma

 

0.20

 

0.19

 

0.19

               

Diluted earnings per common share

As reported

 

$   0.20

 

$   0.20

 

$   0.20

 

Pro forma

 

0.20

 

0.19

 

0.18

F-23


17. Stock option plan ($ in 000s, except per share amounts) (continued)

The Bank used the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions to value options granted for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999:

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Dividend yield

 

1.5%

 

1.5%

 

1.5%

Expected volatility

 

35%

 

41%

 

37%

Risk-free interest rate

 

5.0%

 

5.0%

 

6.0%

Expected option lives

 

7 years

 

7 years

 

7 years

At December 31, 2001, 158,958 shares reserved under the Stock Option Plan were available for future grant. Activity related to the Stock Option Plan for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 was as follows:

   

2001

 

2000

 

1999

       

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

     

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

     

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

   

Options
out-
standing

   

Options
out-
standing

   

Options
out-
standing

 
             
             

Balance at beginning

                     
 

of year

596,584 

 

$   4.34

 

841,126 

 

$   3.83

 

801,490 

 

$   3.46

Granted

5,000 

 

5.26

 

57,544 

 

4.82

 

191,814 

 

4.32

Forfeited

(56,871)

 

4.46

 

(101,408)

 

3.50

 

(15,252)

 

3.30

Exercised

(67,834)

 

2.09

 

(200,678)

 

2.73

 

(136,926)

 

2.41

Balance at end

                     
 

of year

476,879 

 

$   4.66

 

596,584 

 

$   4.34

 

841,126 

 

$   3.83

   
 
 
 
 
 

Information regarding the number, weighted-average exercise price and weighted-average remaining contractual life of options by range of exercise price at December 31, 2001 is as follows:

Exercise
price range

 

Options outstanding

 

Exercisable options

 

Number of
options

 

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

 

Weighted-
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)

 

Number of
options

 

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

         
         
         
         
                     

$0-$1.00

 

51,660

 

$   0.77

 

1

 

51,660

 

$   0.77

$1.01-$2.00

 

60,747

 

1.22

 

4

 

60,747

 

1.21

$3.01-$4.00

 

134,368

 

3.22

 

7

 

134,369

 

3.22

$4.01-$5.00

 

19,011

 

4.47

 

8

 

12,711

 

4.33

$5.01-$6.00

 

22,345

 

5.12

 

8

 

17,344

 

5.08

$6.01-$7.00

 

4,998

 

6.78

 

7

 

2,999

 

6.78

$7.01-$8.00

 

183,750

 

7.86

 

7

 

105,000

 

7.86

   

476,879

 

$   4.66

 

5.97

 

384,830

 

$   3.99

   
 
 
 
 

Exercisable options as of December 31, 2000 and 1999 totaled 397,815 and 442,497, respectively.

F-24


 

18. Contingencies

In the ordinary course of business, the Bank becomes involved in various litigation arising from normal banking activities. In the opinion of management, the ultimate disposition of these actions will not have a material adverse effect on the Bank's consolidated financial position or results of operations.

19. Estimated fair values of financial instruments ($ in 000s)

The following disclosures are made in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 107, "Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments," which requires the disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments where it is practicable to estimate that value.

In cases where quoted market values are not available, the Bank primarily uses present value techniques to estimate the fair values of its financial instruments. Valuation methods require considerable judgment, and the resulting estimates of fair value can be significantly affected by the assumptions made and methods used. Accordingly, the estimates provided herein do not necessarily indicate amounts which could be realized in a current market exchange.

In addition, as the Bank normally intends to hold the majority of its financial instruments until maturity, it does not expect to realize many of the estimated amounts disclosed. The disclosures also do not include estimated fair value amounts for items which are not defined as financial instruments but which have significant value. These include such off-balance sheet items as core deposit intangibles on non-acquired deposits. The Bank does not believe that it would be practicable to estimate a representational fair value for these types of items as of December 31, 2001 and 2000.

Because SFAS No. 107 excludes certain financial instruments and all nonfinancial instruments from its disclosure requirements, any aggregation of the fair value amounts presented would not represent the underlying value of the Bank.

The Bank used the following methods and assumptions to estimate the fair value of its significant financial instruments:

Cash and cash equivalents: The carrying amount approximates the estimated fair value of these instruments.

Investment securities available-for-sale: The market value of investment securities available-for-sale, which is based on quoted market values or the market values for comparable securities, represents estimated fair value.

Interest-bearing deposits with FHLB:  The carrying amount approximates the estimated fair value.

FHLB stock:  The carrying amount approximates the estimated fair value.

Loans: The estimated fair value of loans is calculated by discounting the contractual cash flows of the loans using December 31, 2001 and 2000 origination rates. The resulting amounts are adjusted to estimate the effect of changes in the credit quality of borrowers since the loans were originated.

 

F-25


 

19. Estimated fair values of financial instruments ($ in 000s) (continued)

Deposits: The estimated fair value of demand deposits, consisting of checking, savings and certain interest-bearing demand deposit accounts, is represented by the amounts payable on demand. The estimated fair value of time deposits is calculated by discounting the scheduled cash flows using the December 31, 2001 and 2000 rates offered on these instruments.

FHLB borrowings: The estimated fair value of FHLB borrowings is calculated by discounting the scheduled cash flows using quoted rates from the FHLB as of December 31, 2001 and 2000.

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase:  The carrying amounts of securities sold under agreements to repurchase approximate the estimated fair value due to the short-term nature of these borrowings.

Off-balance sheet financial instruments: The estimated fair value of off-balance sheet financial instruments (primarily commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit) is not significant.

The estimated fair values of the Bank's significant on-balance sheet financial instruments at December 31, 2001 and 2000 were as follows:

2001

2000

Carrying

Estimated

Carrying

Estimated

value

fair value

value

fair value

Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents

$   34,731

$   34,731

$   18,036

$   18,036

Investment securities available-
for-sale

64,078

64,078

73,634

73,634

Interest-bearing deposits with FHLB

1,250

1,250

-

-

FHLB stock

1,595

1,595

1,490

1,490

Loans, net

352,791

359,264

232,910

232,136

Financial liabilities:
Deposits

430,055

434,559

296,240

284,873

FHLB borrowings

5,566

5,774

6,672

6,684

Securities sold under agreements to
repurchase

5,480

5,480

6,162

6,162

20. Regulatory matters ($ in 000s)

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

F-26


 

20. Regulatory matters ($ in 000s) (continued)

Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require PremierWest Bancorp and PremierWest Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the tables below) of Tier 1 capital to average assets, and Tier 1 and total capital to risk-weighted assets (all as defined in the regulations). Management believes that as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, PremierWest Bancorp and PremierWest Bank met or exceeded all relevant capital adequacy requirements.

As of December 31, 2001, the most recent notification from the regulators categorized PremierWest Bancorp and PremierWest Bank as "well capitalized" under the regulatory framework for prompt correction action. To be categorized as "well capitalized," PremierWest Bancorp and PremierWest Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the table below. There are no conditions or events since the notification from the regulators that management believes would change PremierWest Bancorp's or PremierWest Bank's regulatory capital categorization.

PremierWest Bancorp's actual and required capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:

           

Regulatory minimum to be
"adequately capitalized"

 

Regulatory minimum
to be "well capitalized"
under prompt correc-
tive action provisions

             
             
   

Actual

   
   

Amount

 

Ratio

 

Amount

 

Ratio

 

Amount

 

Ratio

December 31, 2001:

                       

Tier 1 capital (to average assets)

 

$   36,024

 

7.5%

 

$   19,198

 

4.0%

 

$   23,998

 

5.0%

Tier 1 capital                        
  (to risk-weighted assets  

36,024

 

9.1

 

15,870

 

4.0

 

23,805

 

6.0

Total capital                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  

40,849

 

10.3

 

31,740

 

8.0

 

39,675

 

10.0

December 31, 2000:                        
Tier 1 capital (to average assets)  

31, 943

 

9.8

 

13,087

 

4.0

 

16,358

 

5.0

Tier 1 capital                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  

31, 943

 

11.1

 

11,632

 

4.0

 

17,448

 

6.0

Total capital                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  

35,183

 

12.1

 

23,265

 

8.0

 

29,081

 

10.0

PremierWest Bank's actual and required capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:

           

Regulatory minimum to be
"adequately capitalized"

 

Regulatory minimum
to be "well capitalized"
under prompt correc-
tive action provisions

             
             
   

Actual

   
   

Amount

 

Ratio

 

Amount

 

Ratio

 

Amount

 

Ratio

December 31, 2001:

                       

Tier 1 capital (to average assets)

 

$   35,093

 

7.3%

 

$   19,153

 

4.0%

 

$   23,942

 

5.0%

Tier 1 capital                        
  (to risk-weighted assets  

35,093

 

8.9

 

15,834

 

4.0

 

23,750

 

6.0

Total capital                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  

39,918

 

10.1

 

31,667

 

8.0

 

39,584

 

10.0

F-27


 

20. Regulatory matters ($ in 000s) (continued)

           

Regulatory minimum to be
"adequately capitalized"

 

Regulatory minimum
to be "well capitalized"
under prompt correc-
tive action provisions

             
             
   

Actual

   
   

Amount

 

Ratio

 

Amount

 

Ratio

 

Amount

 

Ratio

December 31, 2000:

                       

Tier 1 capital (to average assets)

 

$   30,269

 

9.2%

 

$   13,144

 

4.0%

 

$   16,430

 

5.0%

Tier 1 capital                        
  (to risk-weighted assets  

30,269

 

10.5

 

11,561

 

4.0

 

17,342

 

6.0

Total capital                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  

33,645

 

11.6

 

23,122

 

8.0

 

28,904

 

10.0

21. Parent company financial information ($ in 000s)

Condensed financial information for PremierWest Bancorp (parent company only) is presented as follows:

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31,

2001

2000

Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents

$   921

$   814

Investment in subsidiary

42,753

29,480

Premises and equipment

23

1,651

Other assets

173

901

Total assets

$   43,870

$   32,846



Liabilities:
ESOP notes payable

$   162

$   383

Other liabilities

14

21

Total liabilities

176

404

Shareholders' equity

43,694

32,442

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

$   43,870

$   32,846



F-28


 

21. Parent company financial information ($ in 000s) (continued)

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

               
     

Years ended December 31,

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Operating income  

$   197 

 

$   250 

 

$   196 

Operating expense  

189 

 

643 

 

327 

Income (loss) before credit (provision) for income taxes,            
  dividends from subsidiary, and equity in undistributed            
  net earnings of subsidiary  

 

(393)

 

(131)

Credit (provision) for income taxes  

(3)

 

151 

 

43 

Income (loss) before dividends from subsidiary, and            
  equity in undistributed net earnings of subsidiary  

 

(242)

 

(88)

Dividends from subsidiary  

 

 

416 

Equity in undistributed net earnings of subsidiary  

2,035 

 

2,046 

 

1,400 

                   
Net income  

$   2,040 

 

$   1,804 

 

$   1,728 

   
 
 

F-29


21. Parent company financial information ($ in 000s) (continued)

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

               
     

Years ended December 31,

     

2001

 

2000

 

1999

Cash flows from operating activities:            
  Net income  

$   2,040 

 

$   1,804

 

$   1,728 

  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash            
    provided by operating activities:            
      Depreciation and amortization  

26 

 

28

 

57 

      Equity in undistributed net earnings of  

(2,035)

 

(2,046)

 

(1,400)

        subsidiary            
      Income tax benefit of stock options exercised  

71 

 

97

 

114 

      Other, net  

107

 

584

 

286 

        Net cash provided by operating activities  

209 

 

467

 

785 

Cash flows used by investing activities -            
  Purchases of premises and equipment, net  

 

(278)

 

(411)

                     
Cash flows from financing activities:            
  Payments on ESOP notes payable  

(221)

 

(221)

 

(286)

  Proceeds from stock options exercised  

119 

 

593

 

331 

  Repayment of notes payable to subsidiary  

 

-

 

(248)

  Dividends reinvested  

 

-

 

41 

  Cash dividends paid  

 

-

 

(299)

        Net cash provided (used) by financing            
          activities  

(102)

 

372

 

(461)

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  

107 

 

561

 

(87)

                       
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year  

814 

 

253

 

340 

                       
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year  

$   921 

 

$   814

 

$   253 

   
 
 

F-30