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EX-31.1 - EXHIBIT 31.1 - FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPlion03312016ex311.htm
EX-32.2 - EXHIBIT 32.2 - FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPlion03312016ex322.htm
EX-31.2 - EXHIBIT 31.2 - FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPlion03312016ex312.htm
EX-32.1 - EXHIBIT 32.1 - FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPlion03312016ex321.htm

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
__________________________________________________________________
FORM 10-Q
__________________________________________________________________
Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2016
Commission file number 001-34981
__________________________________________________________________
Fidelity Southern Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 __________________________________________________________________

Georgia
 
58-1416811
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
3490 Piedmont Road, Suite 1550
Atlanta, Georgia
 
30305
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

(404) 639-6500
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
__________________________________________________________________
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) 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  ý  No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).   Yes  ý  No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
 
¨
  
Accelerated filer
 
ý
 
Non-accelerated filer
 
o
 
Smaller reporting company
 
o
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
(Do not check if smaller reporting company)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes  ¨  No  ý
As of April 30, 2016 (the most recent practicable date), the Registrant had outstanding 25,471,552 shares of Common Stock.



FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016


TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
 
 
Page
Part I.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item l.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
 
Item 3.
 
Item 4.
 
 
 
 
Part II.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
 
Item 1A.
 
Item 2.
 
Item 3.
 
Item 4.
 
Item 5.
 
Item 6.
 




PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
($ in thousands)
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
Assets
 
 
 
Cash and due from banks
$
29,176

 
$
19,176

Interest-bearing deposits with banks
46,223

 
66,957

Federal funds sold
49,890

 

Cash and cash equivalents
125,289

 
86,133

Investment securities available-for-sale
167,574

 
172,397

Investment securities held-to-maturity (fair value of $15,611 and $14,598, respectively)
15,248

 
14,398

Loans held-for-sale (includes loans at fair value of $232,794 and $233,525, respectively)
396,879

 
397,834

Loans
3,092,632

 
2,896,948

Allowance for loan losses
(26,726
)
 
(26,464
)
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses
3,065,906

 
2,870,484

Premises and equipment, net
87,993

 
79,629

Other real estate, net
19,482

 
18,677

Bank owned life insurance
66,536

 
66,109

Servicing rights, net
82,879

 
84,944

Other assets
73,713

 
58,458

Total assets
$
4,101,499

 
$
3,849,063

Liabilities
 
 
 
Deposits
 
 
 
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits
$
885,319

 
$
786,779

Interest-bearing deposits
2,536,129

 
2,392,732

Total deposits
3,421,448

 
3,179,511

Short-term borrowings
189,278

 
209,730

Subordinated debt, net
120,355

 
120,322

Other liabilities
40,640

 
38,041

Total liabilities
3,771,721

 
3,547,604

Shareholders’ equity
 
 
 
Preferred stock, no par value. Authorized 10,000,000; zero issued and outstanding

 

Common stock, no par value. Authorized 50,000,000; issued and outstanding 25,440,701
 and 23,140,774, respectively
195,200

 
169,848

Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax
2,841

 
1,544

Retained earnings
131,737

 
130,067

Total shareholders’ equity
329,778

 
301,459

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
4,101,499

 
$
3,849,063

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

1


FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(UNAUDITED)
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
($ in thousands, except per share data)
2016
 
2015
Interest income:
 
 
 
Loans, including fees
$
32,945

 
$
25,289

Investment securities:
 
 
 
Taxable interest income
1,203

 
1,091

Nontaxable interest income
77

 
94

Other
67

 
12

Total interest income
34,292

 
26,486

Interest expense:
 
 
 
Deposits
3,265

 
2,492

Other borrowings
294

 
177

Subordinated debt
1,439

 
276

Total interest expense
4,998

 
2,945

Net interest income
29,294

 
23,541

Provision for loan losses
500

 
108

Net interest income after provision for loan losses
28,794

 
23,433

Noninterest income:
 
 
 
Service charges on deposit accounts
1,370

 
1,083

Other fees and charges
1,666

 
1,166

Mortgage banking activities
14,735

 
21,318

Indirect lending activities
4,264

 
5,979

SBA lending activities
1,234

 
930

Bank owned life insurance
454

 
492

Securities gains
82

 

Other
1,081

 
1,070

Total noninterest income
24,886

 
32,038

Noninterest expense:
 
 
 
Salaries and employee benefits
23,423

 
18,822

Commissions
6,230

 
6,160

Occupancy
4,384

 
3,482

Communication
1,128

 
948

Other
11,393

 
9,223

Total noninterest expense
46,558

 
38,635

Income before income tax expense
7,122

 
16,836

Income tax expense
2,581

 
6,146

Net income
$
4,541

 
$
10,690

 
 
 
 
Earnings per common share:
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.19

 
$
0.50

Diluted
$
0.18

 
$
0.45

 
 
 
 
Cash dividends declared per common share
$
0.12

 
$
0.09

 
 
 
 
Net income
$
4,541

 
$
10,690

Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
 
 
 
Change in net unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities, net of tax expense of $764 and $254, respectively
1,246

 
415

Adjustments for net gains included in net income, net of tax expense of $31 and $0, respectively
51

 

Other comprehensive income, net of tax
1,297

 
415

Total comprehensive income
$
5,838

 
$
11,105

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

2


FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)
2016
 
2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income
$
4,541

 
$
10,690

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
Provision for loan losses
500

 
108

Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment
1,240

 
1,157

Amortization of FDIC indemnification asset, net
74

 
357

Accretion of purchase discounts or premiums, net
(1,441
)
 
(72
)
Other amortization
377

 
55

Impairment of other real estate
384

 
234

Amortization and impairment of servicing rights, net
8,748

 
5,638

Share-based compensation expense
481

 
315

Pension and postretirement benefit expense
459

 
409

Net investment securities gains
(82
)
 

Gains on loan sales, including origination of servicing rights
(16,607
)
 
(21,526
)
Net gain on sales of other real estate
(525
)
 
(303
)
Net income on bank owned life insurance
(427
)
 
(460
)
Net change in deferred income tax, net of acquisitions
(1,677
)
 
(1,544
)
Net change in fair value of loans held-for-sale
(2,618
)
 
(3,967
)
Originations of loans held for sale
(727,760
)
 
(820,118
)
Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale
743,488

 
800,142

Net payments received from FDIC under loss-share agreements
21

 
688

Increase (decrease) in other assets, net of acquisitions
685

 
(3,968
)
(Decrease) increase in other liabilities, net of acquisitions
(2,163
)
 
4,735

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
7,698

 
(27,430
)
Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Maturities and calls of investment securities available-for-sale
9,665

 
7,356

Purchases of investment securities held-to-maturity
(1,600
)
 

Maturities and calls of investment securities held-to-maturity
715

 
227

Purchases of FHLB stock
(7,422
)
 
(3,395
)
Redemption of FHLB stock
6,589

 
3,838

Net increase in loans
(52,245
)
 
(59,918
)
Purchase of bank owned life insurance

 
(5,000
)
Proceeds from sales of other real estate
2,828

 
3,480

Purchases of premises and equipment, net of acquisitions
(2,002
)
 
(1,010
)
Cash received in excess of cash paid for acquisitions
37,609

 
30,747

Net cash used in investing activities
(5,863
)
 
(23,675
)


3


FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - Continued
(UNAUDITED)
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)
2016
 
2015
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Net increase in noninterest-bearing deposits, net of acquisitions
$
34,175

 
$
143,516

Net increase in interest-bearing deposits, net of acquisitions
24,079

 
13,159

Net decrease in other short-term borrowings
(30,452
)
 
(80,069
)
Proceeds from FHLB advances
625,000

 
250,000

Repayments on FHLB advances
(615,000
)
 
(260,000
)
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock, net
2,390

 
450

Common stock dividends paid
(2,871
)
 
(1,923
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
37,321

 
65,133

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
39,156

 
14,028

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
86,133

 
71,605

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
$
125,289

 
$
85,633

 
 
 
 
Supplemental cash flow information and non-cash disclosures:
 
 
 
Cash paid during the period for:
 
 
 
Interest on deposits and borrowings
$
3,670

 
$
2,894

Income taxes
1,694

 
155

Acquisitions
 
 
 
Assets acquired
169,321

 
7,452

Liabilities assumed
184,203

 
38,199

Common stock issued
22,727

 

Transfers of investment securities from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity

 
3,194

Transfers of loans from held-for-sale to held for investment
2,230

 

Transfers of loans to other real estate
2,683

 
835

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.


4


FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
March 31, 2016
(UNAUDITED)
1. Basis of Presentation, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Subsequent Business Combinations
The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Fidelity Southern Corporation (“FSC” or “Fidelity”) and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. FSC owns 100% of Fidelity Bank (the “Bank”) and LionMark Insurance Company, an insurance agency offering consumer credit related insurance products. FSC also owns three subsidiaries established to issue trust preferred securities, which are not consolidated for financial reporting purposes in accordance with current accounting guidance, as FSC is not the primary beneficiary. The “Company” or “our,” as used herein, includes FSC and its subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires.
These unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles followed within the financial services industry for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required for complete financial statements.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the balance sheet and revenues and expenses for the periods presented. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant changes in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses, the calculations of, amortization of, and the potential impairment of capitalized servicing rights, the valuation of loans held-for-sale and certain derivatives, the valuation of real estate or other assets acquired in connection with foreclosures or in satisfaction of loans, estimates used for fair value acquisition accounting and valuation of deferred income taxes. In addition, the actual lives of certain amortizable assets and income items are estimates subject to change. The Company principally operates in one business segment, which is community banking.
In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and results of operations for the interim periods have been included. All such adjustments are normal recurring accruals. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year presentation. These reclassifications had no impact on previously reported net income and shareholders’ equity.
Operating results for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2016. These statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2015.
The Company’s significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. There were no new accounting policies or changes to existing policies adopted in the first three months of 2016 which had a significant effect on the results of operations or statement of financial condition. For interim reporting purposes, the Company follows the same basic accounting policies and considers each interim period as an integral part of an annual period.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-09, “Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting” as part of its simplification initiative. This ASU affects all entities that issue share-based payment awards to their employees. Some of the key provisions of this new ASU include: (1) companies will no longer record excess tax benefits and certain tax deficiencies in additional paid-in capital (“APIC”). Instead, they will record all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement, and APIC pools will be eliminated. The guidance also eliminates the requirement that excess tax benefits be realized before companies can recognize them. In addition, the guidance requires companies to present excess tax benefits as an operating activity on the statement of cash flows rather than as a financing activity; (2) increase the amount an employer can withhold to cover income taxes on awards and still qualify for the exception to liability classification for shares used to satisfy the employer’s statutory income tax withholding obligation. The new guidance will also require an employer to classify the cash paid to a tax authority when shares are withheld to satisfy its statutory income tax withholding obligation as a financing activity on its statement of cash flows (current guidance did not specify how these cash flows should be classified); and (3) permit companies to make an accounting policy election for the impact of forfeitures on the recognition of expense for share-based payment awards. Forfeitures can be estimated, as required today, or recognized when they occur. ASU No. 2016-09 is effective for public business entities for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted, but all of the guidance must be adopted in the same period. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of ASU No. 2016-09 to determine the potential impact the new standard will have on its Consolidated Financial Statements.

5


In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases.” The new standard requires the recognition of assets and liabilities arising from lease transactions on the balance sheet and the disclosure of key information about leasing arrangements. Accordingly, a lessee will recognize a lease asset for its right to use the underlying asset and a lease liability for the corresponding lease obligation. Both the asset and liability will initially be measured at the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term. Subsequent measurement, including the presentation of expenses and cash flows, will depend on the classification of the lease as either a finance or an operating lease. Initial costs directly attributable to negotiating and arranging the lease will be included in the asset. For leases with a term of 12 months or less, a lessee can make an accounting policy election by class of underlying asset to not recognize an asset and corresponding liability. Lessees will also be required to provide additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures regarding the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. These disclosures are intended to supplement the amounts recorded in the financial statements and provide additional information about the nature of an organization’s leasing activities. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those years, with early adoption permitted. In transition, lessees are required to recognize and measure leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. The transition guidance also provides specific guidance for sale and leaseback transactions, build-to-suit leases and amounts previously recognized in accordance with the business combinations guidance for leases. The Company is continuing to evaluate the impact of this ASU on its Consolidated Financial Statements.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments - Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The new guidance is intended to improve the recognition and measurement of financial instruments by requiring: equity investments that do not result in consolidation and are not accounted for under the equity method to be measured at fair value through net income, unless they qualify for the practicability exception for investments that do not have readily determinable fair values; changes in instrument-specific credit risk for financial liabilities that are measured under the fair value option will be recognized in other comprehensive income; and entities will make the assessment of the realizability of a deferred tax asset related to an available-for-sale debt security in combination with other deferred tax assets. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods therein. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this ASU is not expected to have a significant impact on its Consolidated Financial Statements.
In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date” which deferred the effective date of ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” by one year to annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim reporting periods therein. The FASB had previously issued ASU 2014-09 in May 2014. The amendments in ASU 2014-09 indicate that entities should recognize revenue to reflect the transfers of goods or services to customers in an amount equal to the consideration the entity receives or expects to receive. Early adoption is permitted only as of annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within that period. The Company is continuing to evaluate the impact of this ASU on its Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other accounting standards that have been issued by the FASB or other standard-setting bodies are not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Contingencies
Due to the nature of their activities, the Company and its subsidiaries are at times engaged in various legal proceedings that arise in the course of normal business, some of which were outstanding as of March 31, 2016. Although the ultimate outcome of all claims and lawsuits outstanding as of March 31, 2016 cannot be ascertained at this time, it is the opinion of management that these matters, when resolved, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations or financial condition.
2. Business Combinations
The Company accounts for its acquisitions as business combinations. As such, the purchase price is allocated to the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date. Determining the fair value of assets and liabilities, particularly illiquid assets and liabilities, is a complicated process involving significant judgment regarding estimates and assumptions used to calculate estimated fair value. Information regarding the Company's loan discount and core deposit intangible asset may be adjusted as the Company refines its estimates. Purchase price allocations on completed acquisitions may be modified through the measurement date which cannot exceed one year from the acquisition date. If we recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period, the amounts will be reported in the period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. Fair value adjustments based on updated estimates could materially affect the goodwill, if any, recorded on the acquisition. The Company may incur losses on the acquired loans that are materially different from losses originally projected. Acquisition related costs are expensed.
The effects of the acquired assets and liabilities have been included in the consolidated financial statements since their respective acquisition date. Pro forma results have not been disclosed as those amounts are not significant to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

6


American Enterprise Bankshares, Inc.
On March 1, 2016, the Company acquired American Enterprise Bankshares, Inc. (“AEB”), the holding company for American Enterprise Bank of Florida, a Jacksonville, Florida-based community bank. The Company acquired all of the outstanding common stock of the former AEB shareholders, including common shares issued upon conversion of subordinated debentures prior to the acquisition. Total consideration of $22.8 million was issued in the transaction. AEB shareholders received 0.299 shares of Fidelity common stock for each share of AEB common stock, as well as a cash payment for any fractional shares, resulting in the issuance of 1,470,068 shares of Fidelity common stock. All unexercised AEB stock options at the closing date were settled for cash at the volume weighted average price of Fidelity common stock (“VWAP”) as defined in the merger agreement between AEB and Fidelity.
($ in thousands)
 
Number of Shares
 
Amount
Equity consideration
 
 
 
 
Common stock issued
 
1,470,068

 
$
22,727

Total equity consideration
 
 
 
22,727

 
 
 
 
 
Non-equity considerations
 
 
 
 
Cash
 
 
 
32

Total consideration paid
 
 
 
22,759

 
 
 
 
 
Fair value of net assets assumed
 
 
 
17,922

Goodwill
 
 
 
$
4,837

AEB merged with and into the Company and American Enterprise Bank of Florida merged with and into Fidelity Bank. With this acquisition, the Company added approximately $208.8 million in assets, $147.4 million in loans, $1.3 million in core deposit intangible, $7.7 million in premises and equipment, $5.7 million in deferred tax assets, $4.8 million in goodwill, and $181.8 million in deposits and expanded and strengthened its retail branch footprint by adding two branches in the Jacksonville, Florida area. The Company projects cost savings will be recognized in future periods once the conversion and integration activities related to the acquisition are completed.
Acquisitions during 2015
The Bank of Georgia
On October 2, 2015, the Bank entered into a Purchase and Assumption Agreement (“Agreement”) with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”), as Receiver of The Bank of Georgia, located in Peachtree City, Georgia (“The Bank of Georgia”), and the FDIC, acting in its corporate capacity, pursuant to which the Bank acquired substantially all of the assets and assumed all of the deposits of The Bank of Georgia.
Under the terms of the Agreement, the Bank acquired approximately $280.8 million in assets, including approximately $144.8 million in loans, and assumed approximately $266.4 million in customer deposits. Pursuant to the Agreement, the Bank received a fair value adjustment on the assets in the amount of $20.4 million on the assets acquired and paid the FDIC a premium of 3.0% to assume all customer deposits. To settle the transaction, the FDIC made a cash payment to the Bank totaling approximately $41.4 million, based on the differential between liabilities assumed and assets acquired. Additionally, the Bank acquired The Bank of Georgia's seven branches, which are located in the following Georgia cities: Peachtree City, Fayetteville, Tyrone, Sharpsburg, Newnan, and Fairburn. With this acquisition, the Company expanded its retail branch footprint in Coweta and Fayette counties, both of which are suburbs of Atlanta.
The terms of the Agreement provide for the FDIC to indemnify the Company against certain claims, including, but not limited to, claims with respect to liabilities and assets of The Bank of Georgia or any of their affiliates not assumed or otherwise purchased by the Company, with respect to claims made by shareholders of The Bank of Georgia, with respect to claims based on the rights of any creditors of The Bank of Georgia and with respect to claims based on any action by The Bank of Georgia’s former directors, officers and other employees. The transaction did not include a loss sharing agreement with the FDIC.
First Bank
On September 11, 2015, the Company acquired certain loans and deposits from First Bank, a Missouri bank, and eight branches in the Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida area which expanded the Company's presence in that market. Net cash proceeds of $116.0 million were received in the transaction.
Florida Capital Bank, NA Branch
On January 5, 2015, the Company acquired certain loans and deposits from the St. Augustine, Florida branch of Florida Capital Bank, N.A. Net cash proceeds of $30.7 million were received in the transaction.

7


3. Investment Securities
Management's primary objective in managing the investment securities portfolio includes maintaining a portfolio of high quality investments with competitive returns while providing for pledging and liquidity needs within overall asset and liability management parameters. The Company is required under federal regulations to maintain adequate liquidity to ensure safe and sound operations. As such, management regularly evaluates the investment portfolio for cash flows, the level of loan production, current interest rate risk strategies and the potential future direction of market interest rate changes. Individual investment securities differ in terms of default, interest rate, liquidity and expected rate of return risk.
The following table summarizes the amortized cost and fair value of debt securities and the related gross unrealized gains and losses at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
 
 
March 31, 2016
(in thousands)
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair Value
Investment securities available-for-sale:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Obligations of U.S. Government sponsored enterprises
 
$
36,730

 
$
1,325

 
$

 
$
38,055

Municipal securities
 
14,497

 
630

 

 
15,127

Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
95,158

 
2,475

 
(48
)
 
97,585

Commercial mortgage-backed securities
 
2,076

 
28

 

 
2,104

SBA pool securities
 
14,700

 
46

 
(43
)
 
14,703

Total available-for-sale
 
$
163,161

 
$
4,504

 
$
(91
)
 
$
167,574

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Municipal securities
 
$
1,589

 
$
44

 
$

 
$
1,633

Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
9,494

 
329

 
(10
)
 
9,813

Commercial mortgage-backed securities
 
4,165

 

 

 
4,165

Total held-to-maturity
 
$
15,248

 
$
373

 
$
(10
)
 
$
15,611

 
 
December 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair Value
Investment securities available-for-sale:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Obligations of U.S. Government sponsored enterprises
 
$
41,252

 
$
674

 
$
(83
)
 
$
41,843

Municipal securities
 
14,513

 
491

 
(53
)
 
14,951

Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
99,338

 
2,080

 
(455
)
 
100,963

SBA pool securities
 
14,803

 

 
(163
)
 
14,640

Total available-for-sale
 
$
169,906

 
$
3,245

 
$
(754
)
 
$
172,397

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Municipal securities
 
$
1,589

 
$

 
$
(10
)
 
$
1,579

Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
8,621

 
263

 
(53
)
 
8,831

Commercial mortgage-backed securities
 
4,188

 

 

 
4,188

Total held-to-maturity
 
$
14,398

 
$
263

 
$
(63
)
 
$
14,598


8


The Company held 4 and 19 investment securities available-for-sale that were in an unrealized loss position at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, as well as two and four securities held-to-maturity that were in an unrealized loss position at March 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015, respectively. The following table reflects the gross unrealized losses and fair values of the investment securities with unrealized losses, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position.
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
 
12 Months or Less
 
More Than 12 Months
(in thousands)
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
Investment securities available-for-sale:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
$

 
$

 
$
3,312

 
$
(48
)
SBA pool securities
 
6,251

 
(43
)
 

 

Total available-for-sale
 
$
6,251

 
$
(43
)
 
$
3,312

 
$
(48
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
$
2,585

 
$
(10
)
 
$

 
$

Total held-to-maturity
 
$
2,585

 
$
(10
)
 
$

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
12 Months or Less
 
More Than 12 Months
(in thousands)
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
 
Fair
Value
 
Unrealized
Losses
Investment securities available-for-sale:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Obligations of U.S. Government sponsored enterprises
 
$
25,993

 
$
(83
)
 
$

 
$

Municipal securities
 
2,915

 
(53
)
 

 

Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
20,979

 
(420
)
 
3,619

 
(35
)
SBA pool securities
 
14,640

 
(163
)
 

 

Total available-for-sale
 
$
64,527

 
$
(719
)
 
$
3,619

 
$
(35
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Municipal securities
 
$
1,579

 
$
(10
)
 
$

 
$

Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
4,204

 
(53
)
 

 

Total held-to-maturity
 
$
5,783

 
$
(63
)
 
$

 
$

At March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the unrealized losses on investment securities were related to interest rate fluctuations. Management does not have the intent to sell the temporarily impaired securities and it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the investments before recovery of the amortized cost. Accordingly, as of March 31, 2016, management believes the impairment detailed in the table above is temporary and no other-than-temporary impairment loss has been recognized in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

9


The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are categorized in the following table by contractual maturity. Securities not due at a single maturity (i.e., mortgage-backed securities) are shown separately.
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
Investment securities available-for-sale:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Obligations of U.S. Government sponsored enterprises
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Due after one year through five years
 
$
24,482

 
$
25,358

 
$
17,877

 
$
18,176

Due five years through ten years
 
12,244

 
12,693

 
23,375

 
23,667

Due after ten years
 
4

 
4

 

 

Municipal securities
 

 

 
 
 
 
Due five years through ten years
 
4,095

 
4,308

 
3,316

 
3,399

Due after ten years
 
10,402

 
10,819

 
11,197

 
11,552

SBA pool securities
 

 

 

 

Due within one year
 
2

 
2

 
5

 
5

Due after five years through ten years
 
8,575

 
8,591

 
8,605

 
8,554

Due after ten years
 
6,123

 
6,110

 
6,193

 
6,081

Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
95,158

 
97,585

 
99,338

 
100,963

Commercial mortgage-backed securities
 
2,076

 
2,104

 

 

Total available-for-sale
 
$
163,161

 
$
167,574

 
$
169,906

 
$
172,397

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment securities held-to-maturity:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   Municipal securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Due after ten years
 
$
1,589

 
$
1,633

 
$
1,589

 
$
1,579

Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
9,494

 
9,813

 
8,621

 
8,831

Commercial mortgage-backed securities
 
4,165

 
4,165

 
4,188

 
4,188

Total held-to-maturity
 
$
15,248

 
$
15,611

 
$
14,398

 
$
14,598

There was one investment security called during the three months ended March 31, 2016 and no investment securities were sold or called for the three months ended March 31, 2015. For the investment security that was called during the three months ended March 31, 2016, gross gains totaled $82,000. There were no transfers from investment securities available-for-sale to investment securities held-to-maturity during the three months ended March 31, 2016. There were $3.2 million in transfers from investment securities available-for-sale to investment securities held-to-maturity during the three months ended March 31, 2015.
The following table summarizes the investment securities that were pledged as collateral at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
(in thousands)
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Public deposits
 
$
100,935

 
$
93,983

Securities sold under repurchase agreements
 
22,039

 
23,058

Total pledged securities
 
$
122,974

 
$
117,041


10


4. Loans Held-for-Sale
Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale are carried at fair value and SBA and indirect automobile loans are carried at the lower of cost or market value. The following table summarizes loans held-for-sale at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
(in thousands)
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Residential mortgage
 
$
232,794

 
$
233,525

SBA
 
14,085

 
14,309

Indirect automobile
 
150,000

 
150,000

  Total loans held-for-sale
 
$
396,879

 
$
397,834

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company transferred loans with unpaid principal balances of $2.2 million to the held for investment residential mortgage portfolio. During the three months ended March 31, 2015, there were no transfers to the held for investment residential mortgage portfolio.
The Company had residential mortgage loans held-for-sale with unpaid principal balances of $139.2 million and $173.4 million pledged to the FHLB at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.
5. Loans
Loans outstanding, by class, are summarized in the following table at carrying value and include net unamortized costs of $28.4 million and $31.9 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Covered loans represent previously acquired loans covered under Loss Share Agreements with the FDIC. Non-covered loans represent loans acquired that are not covered under Loss Share Agreements with the FDIC and legacy Bank originated loans. Legacy Bank loans represent existing portfolio loans prior to the past FDIC-assisted transactions with Loss Share Agreements and additional loans originated subsequent to the past FDIC-assisted transactions with Loss Share Agreements (collectively, “legacy loans”). Because of the difference in accounting for acquired loans, the tables below further segregate the Company’s non-covered loans between legacy loans and acquired loans.
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
 
Non-covered Loans
 
Covered Loans Acquired(1)
 
 
(in thousands)
 
Legacy
 
Acquired
 
 
Total
Commercial
 
$
608,893

 
$
174,701

 
$
13,501

 
$
797,095

SBA
 
134,056

 
2,801

 
364

 
137,221

Total commercial loans
 
742,949

 
177,502

 
13,865

 
934,316

Construction
 
170,288

 
28,239

 
1,555

 
200,082

Indirect automobile
 
1,463,005

 

 

 
1,463,005

Installment
 
34,796

 
3,493

 
259

 
38,548

Total consumer loans
 
1,497,801

 
3,493

 
259

 
1,501,553

Residential mortgage
 
269,987

 
51,462

 
386

 
321,835

Home equity lines of credit
 
107,626

 
22,105

 
5,115

 
134,846

Total mortgage loans
 
377,613

 
73,567

 
5,501

 
456,681

Total loans
 
$
2,788,651

 
$
282,801

 
$
21,180

 
$
3,092,632


11



 
 
December 31, 2015
 
 
Non-covered Loans
 
Covered Loans Acquired(1)
 
 
(in thousands)
 
Legacy
 
Acquired
 
 
Total
Commercial
 
$
569,440

 
$
119,595

 
$
14,256

 
$
703,291

SBA
 
131,244

 
4,383

 
366

 
135,993

Total commercial loans
 
700,684

 
123,978

 
14,622

 
839,284

Construction
 
157,476

 
17,393

 
2,164

 
177,033

Indirect automobile
 
1,449,481

 

 

 
1,449,481

Installment
 
12,031

 
1,720

 
304

 
14,055

Total consumer loans
 
1,461,512

 
1,720

 
304

 
1,463,536

Residential mortgage
 
284,313

 
17,683

 
382

 
302,378

Home equity lines of credit
 
93,093

 
16,456

 
5,168

 
114,717

Total mortgage loans
 
377,406

 
34,139

 
5,550

 
417,095

Total loans
 
$
2,697,078

 
$
177,230

 
$
22,640

 
$
2,896,948

(1) Included in covered loans at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 is $13.9 million and $14.8 million, respectively, of assets whose reimbursable loss periods will end as of January 1, 2017.
The Company has extended loans to certain officers and directors. The Company does not believe these loans involve more than the normal risk of collectability or present other unfavorable features when originated. None of the related party loans were classified as nonaccrual, past due, restructured, or potential problem loans at March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015.
Nonaccrual Loans
The accrual of interest income is generally discontinued when a loan becomes 90 days past due. Past due status is based on the contractual terms of the loan agreement. A loan may be placed on nonaccrual status sooner if reasonable doubt exists as to the full, timely collection of principal or interest. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, previously accrued and uncollected interest is reversed against current period interest income. Subsequent interest collected is recorded as a principal reduction. Nonaccrual loans are returned to accrual status when all contractually due principal and interest amounts are brought current and the future payments are reasonably assured.
Loans in nonaccrual status are presented by class of loans in the following table. Purchased credit impaired loans are considered to be performing due to the application of the accretion method and are excluded from the table.
(in thousands)
 
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
Commercial
 
$
9,128

 
$
9,228

SBA
 
8,521

 
6,599

Total commercial loans
 
17,649

 
15,827

Construction
 
5,703

 
5,940

Indirect automobile
 
797

 
1,116

Installment
 
576

 
602

Total consumer loans
 
1,373

 
1,718

Residential mortgage
 
3,480

 
2,514

Home equity lines of credit
 
1,406

 
1,129

Total mortgage loans
 
4,886

 
3,643

Total nonaccrual loans
 
$
29,611

 
$
27,128

If such nonaccrual loans had been on a full accrual basis, interest income on these loans for the the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015 would have been $457,000 and $488,000, respectively.

12


Accruing loans delinquent 30-89 days, 90 days or more, and troubled debt restructured loans (“TDRs”) accruing interest, presented by class of loans at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, were as follows.
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Accruing
Delinquent
30-89 Days
 
Accruing
Delinquent
90 Days or More
 
TDRs
Accruing
 
Accruing
Delinquent
30-89 Days
 
Accruing
Delinquent
90 Days or More
 
TDRs
Accruing
Commercial
 
$
2,235

 
$

 
$
6,652

 
$
428

 
$

 
$
9,105

SBA
 
855

 

 
3,871

 
3,352

 

 
3,912

Construction
 

 

 
155

 
58

 

 
160

Indirect automobile
 
1,086

 

 
1,714

 
1,829

 

 
1,567

Installment
 
306

 

 
57

 
185

 

 
59

Residential mortgage
 
1,448

 
1,344

 
614

 
1,558

 
1,284

 
618

Home equity lines of credit
 
2,250

 

 

 
682

 

 

Total
 
$
8,180

 
$
1,344

 
$
13,063

 
$
8,092

 
$
1,284

 
$
15,421

TDR Loans
The following table presents TDRs that occurred during the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, along with the type of modification. Modified purchased credit impaired loans are not removed from their accounting pool and accounted for as TDRs, even if those loans would otherwise be deemed TDRs.
 
 
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
 
Three Months Ended
March 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Interest Rate
 
Term
 
Interest Rate
 
Term
Commercial
 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
1,006

SBA
 

 

 

 

Construction
 

 

 

 

Indirect automobile
 

 
331

 

 
394

Installment
 

 

 

 

Residential mortgage
 

 

 

 

Home equity lines of credit
 

 

 

 

Total
 
$

 
$
331

 
$

 
$
1,400

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the amount of loans which were restructured and subsequently redefaulted were $3,000, which were all indirect automobile loans. There were no restructured and subsequently redefaulted loans during the three months ended March 31, 2015. The company defines subsequently redefaulted as a payment default within 12 months of the restructuring date.
The Company had total TDRs with a balance of $18.2 million and $22.5 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. There were (recoveries)/charge-offs of TDR loans of $(773,000) and $21,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Charge-offs on such loans are factored into the rolling historical loss rate, which is used in the calculation of the allowance for loan losses. The Company is not committed to lend additional amounts as of March 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015 to customers with outstanding loans that are classified as TDRs.
Pledged Loans
Presented in the following table is the unpaid principal balance of loans held for investment that were pledged to the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (“FHLB of Atlanta”) as collateral for borrowings at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
 
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
(in thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
Commercial real estate
 
$
232,263

 
$
231,227

Home equity lines of credit
 
78,283

 
73,755

Residential mortgage
 
197,608

 
181,180

Total
 
$
508,154

 
$
486,162


13


Indirect automobile loans with an unpaid principal balance of approximately $354.5 million and $319.7 million were pledged to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta (“FRB”) at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, as collateral for potential Discount Window borrowings.
Impaired Loans
The following tables present by class the unpaid principal balance, amortized cost and related allowance for impaired loans at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
(1)
 
Related
Allowance
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
(1)
 
Related
Allowance
Impaired Loans with Allowance
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
 
$
5,445

 
$
3,527

 
$
1,358

 
$
6,631

 
$
4,731

 
$
1,280

SBA
 
4,177

 
3,920

 
157

 
3,236

 
2,833

 
327

Construction
 
155

 
155

 
74

 
160

 
160

 
78

Indirect automobile
 
2,127

 
1,745

 
10

 
2,077

 
1,681

 
8

Installment
 
291

 
248

 
248

 
294

 
252

 
252

Residential mortgage
 
3,372

 
3,372

 
693

 
2,519

 
2,519

 
421

Home equity lines of credit
 
659

 
532

 
532

 
812

 
675

 
675

Loans
 
$
16,226

 
$
13,499

 
$
3,072

 
$
15,729

 
$
12,851

 
$
3,041

 
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
(1)
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
(1)
Impaired Loans with No Allowance
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
 
$
12,410

 
$
10,829

 
$
17,345

 
$
14,580

SBA
 
12,689

 
9,075

 
14,118

 
10,499

Construction
 
7,806

 
5,703

 
8,045

 
5,940

Indirect automobile
 

 

 

 

Installment
 
1,469

 
182

 
1,487

 
191

Residential mortgage
 
2,029

 
2,029

 
2,713

 
2,712

Home equity lines of credit
 
151

 
134

 

 

Loans
 
$
36,554

 
$
27,952

 
$
43,708

 
$
33,922

(1)The primary difference between the unpaid principal balance and recorded investment represents charge offs previously taken; it excludes accrued interest receivable due to materiality.
Average impaired loans and interest income recognized for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, by class, are summarized in the table below. Interest income recognized during the periods on a cash basis was insignificant.
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
(in thousands)
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
Income
Recognized
 
Average
Balance
 
Interest
Income
Recognized
Commercial
 
$
16,727

 
$
183

 
$
22,691

 
$
239

SBA
 
13,399

 
156

 
16,921

 
207

Construction
 
5,951

 
4

 
7,453

 
8

Indirect automobile
 
2,278

 
72

 
1,924

 
73

Installment
 
435

 
28

 
504

 
31

Residential mortgage
 
5,503

 
45

 
4,974

 
22

Home equity lines of credit
 
670

 
22

 
904

 
14

Total
 
$
44,963

 
$
510

 
$
55,371

 
$
594


14


Credit Quality Indicators
The Company uses an asset quality ratings system to assign a numeric indicator of the credit quality and level of existing credit risk inherent in a loan. These ratings are adjusted periodically as the Company becomes aware of changes in the credit quality of the underlying loans.
Indirect automobile loans typically receive a risk rating only when being downgraded to an adverse rating which typically occurs when payments of principal and interest are greater than 90 days past due. The Company uses a number of factors, including FICO scoring, to help evaluate the likelihood consumer borrowers will pay their credit obligations as agreed. The weighted-average FICO score for the indirect automobile portfolio was 750 at March 31, 2016 and 749 at December 31, 2015.
The following are definitions of the asset rating categories.
Pass – These categories include loans rated satisfactory with high, good, average or acceptable business and credit risk.
Special Mention – A special mention asset has potential weaknesses that deserve management’s close attention.
Substandard – A substandard asset is inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. A substandard asset has a well-defined weakness, or weaknesses, that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt.
Doubtful – Doubtful assets have all the weaknesses inherent in assets classified substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable.
Loss – Loss assets are considered uncollectable and of such little value that their continuance as recorded assets is not warranted.
The following tables present the recorded investment in loans, by loan rating category, as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
(in thousands)
 
March 31, 2016
Asset Rating
 
Commercial
 
SBA
 
Construction
 
Indirect
Automobile
 
Installment
 
Residential
Mortgage
 
Home Equity
Lines of Credit
 
Total
Pass
 
$
730,351

 
$
120,159

 
$
189,567

 
$

 
$
37,571

 
$
295,993

 
$
132,824

 
$
1,506,465

Special Mention
 
18,501

 
6,920

 
2,270

 

 
239

 
10,866

 
257

 
39,053

Substandard
 
48,243

 
10,142

 
8,245

 
3,295

 
738

 
14,976

 
1,765

 
87,404

Doubtful
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
797,095

 
137,221

 
200,082

 
3,295

 
38,548

 
321,835

 
134,846

 
1,632,922

Ungraded Performing
 

 

 

 
1,459,710

 

 

 

 
1,459,710

Total
 
$
797,095

 
$
137,221

 
$
200,082

 
$
1,463,005

 
$
38,548

 
$
321,835

 
$
134,846

 
$
3,092,632


(in thousands)
 
December 31, 2015
Asset Rating
 
Commercial
 
SBA
 
Construction
 
Indirect
Automobile
 
Installment
 
Residential
Mortgage
 
Home Equity
Lines of Credit
 
Total
Pass
 
$
638,051

 
$
119,690

 
$
166,811

 
$

 
$
12,839

 
$
289,091

 
$
112,700

 
$
1,339,182

Special Mention
 
12,136

 
5,477

 
2,040

 

 
418

 
3,358

 
267

 
23,696

Substandard
 
53,104

 
10,826

 
8,182

 
3,537

 
798

 
9,929

 
1,750

 
88,126

Doubtful
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
703,291

 
135,993

 
177,033

 
3,537

 
14,055

 
302,378

 
114,717

 
1,451,004

Ungraded Performing
 

 

 

 
1,445,944

 

 

 

 
1,445,944

Total
 
$
703,291

 
$
135,993

 
$
177,033

 
$
1,449,481

 
$
14,055

 
$
302,378

 
$
114,717

 
$
2,896,948


15


Acquired Loans
As discussed in Note 2, on March 1, 2016, the Company acquired loans with a fair value of $147.4 million. Of this amount, $145.9 million were determined to have no evidence of deteriorated credit quality and are accounted for as acquired performing loans. The remaining $1.5 million were determined to have exhibited deteriorated credit quality since origination and were accounted for as purchased credit impaired (“PCI”) loans.
The tables below show the balances acquired for these two subsections of the portfolio as of the acquisition date.
Acquired Performing Loans
(in thousands)
 
2016
Contractually required principal and interest at acquisition
 
$
173,726

Fair value of acquired performing loans at acquisition
 
$
145,913

Acquired PCI Loans
(in thousands)
 
 
2016
Contractually required principal and interest at acquisition
 
 
$
2,524

Nonaccretable difference (expected losses and foregone interest)
 
 
962

Cash flows expected to be collected at acquisition
 
 
1,562

Accretable yield
 
 
101

Basis in acquired PCI loans at acquisition
 
 
$
1,461

The Company also acquired PCI loans in its past acquisitions. The carrying amount and outstanding balance at March 31, 2016 of the PCI loans from these acquisitions as well as the PCI loans acquired during 2016 was $41.0 million and $54.7 million, respectively. The carrying amount and outstanding balance of the PCI loans from the past FDIC-assisted acquisitions was $44.5 million and $58.1 million, respectively, at December 31, 2015.
Accretable yield, or income expected to be collected on PCI loans at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, was as follows.
(in thousands)
 
March 31,
2016
 
December 31, 2015
Beginning balance
 
$
3,797

 
$
1,649

Increase due to acquired loans
 
92

 
1,371

Accretion of income
 
(549
)
 
(768
)
Other activity, net
 
178

 
1,545

Ending balance
 
$
3,518

 
$
3,797



16


6. Allowance for Loan Losses
A summary of changes in the allowance for loan losses (“ALL”) by loan portfolio type is as follows.
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016
(in thousands)
 
Commercial
 
Construction
 
Consumer
 
Mortgage
 
Unallocated
 
Total
Beginning balance
 
$
11,025

 
$
1,711

 
$
8,668

 
$
4,284

 
$
776

 
$
26,464

Charge-offs
 
(269
)
 

 
(1,163
)
 
(44
)
 

 
(1,476
)
Recoveries
 
722

 
534

 
358

 
1

 

 
1,615

Net recoveries / (charge offs)
 
453

 
534

 
(805
)
 
(43
)
 

 
139

Decrease in FDIC indemnification asset
 
(53
)
 
(348
)
 

 
24

 

 
(377
)
Provision for loan losses(1)
 
(544
)
 
28

 
603

 
305

 
108

 
500

Ending balance
 
$
10,881

 
$
1,925

 
$
8,466

 
$
4,570

 
$
884

 
$
26,726

 
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Commercial
 
Construction
 
Consumer
 
Mortgage
 
Unallocated
 
Total
Beginning balance
 
$
13,167

 
$
1,486

 
$
6,591

 
$
3,475

 
$
731

 
$
25,450

Charge-offs
 
(886
)
 

 
(1,255
)
 
(40
)
 

 
(2,181
)
Recoveries
 
71

 
98

 
383

 
1

 

 
553

Net (charge offs) / recoveries
 
(815
)
 
98

 
(872
)
 
(39
)
 

 
(1,628
)
Decrease in FDIC indemnification asset
 

 

 

 
(172
)
 

 
(172
)
Provision for loan losses(1)
 
(845
)
 
(230
)
 
1,034

 
59

 
90

 
108

Ending balance
 
$
11,507

 
$
1,354

 
$
6,753

 
$
3,323

 
$
821

 
$
23,758

(1) Net of benefit attributable to FDIC indemnification asset.
The following tables present, by loan portfolio type, the balance in the ALL disaggregated on the basis of the Company’s impairment measurement method and the related recorded investment in loans.
 
 
March 31, 2016
(in thousands)
 
Commercial
 
Construction
 
Consumer
 
Mortgage
 
Unallocated
 
Total
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
1,515

 
$
74

 
$
258

 
$
1,225

 
$

 
$
3,072

Collectively evaluated for impairment
 
8,724

 
1,834

 
8,208

 
3,322

 
884

 
22,972

Acquired with deteriorated credit quality
 
642

 
17

 

 
23

 

 
682

Total allowance for loan losses
 
$
10,881

 
$
1,925

 
$
8,466

 
$
4,570

 
$
884

 
$
26,726

Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
27,351

 
$
5,858

 
$
2,175

 
$
6,067

 
$

 
$
41,451

Collectively evaluated for impairment
 
875,311

 
191,966

 
1,498,955

 
441,828

 

 
3,008,060

Acquired with deteriorated credit quality
 
31,654

 
2,258

 
423

 
8,786

 

 
43,121

Total loans
 
$
934,316

 
$
200,082

 
$
1,501,553

 
$
456,681

 
$

 
$
3,092,632


17


 
 
December 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Commercial
 
Construction
 
Consumer
 
Mortgage
 
Unallocated
 
Total
Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
1,607

 
$
78

 
$
260

 
$
1,096

 
$

 
$
3,041

Collectively evaluated for impairment
 
8,850

 
1,612

 
8,408

 
3,165

 
776

 
22,811

Acquired with deteriorated credit quality
 
568

 
21

 

 
23

 

 
612

Total allowance for loan losses
 
$
11,025

 
$
1,711

 
$
8,668

 
$
4,284

 
$
776

 
$
26,464

Individually evaluated for impairment
 
$
32,643

 
$
6,100

 
$
2,124

 
$
5,906

 
$

 
$
46,773

Collectively evaluated for impairment
 
787,493

 
168,953

 
1,460,039

 
389,209

 

 
2,805,694

Acquired with deteriorated credit quality
 
19,148

 
1,980

 
1,373

 
21,980

 

 
44,481

Total loans
 
$
839,284

 
$
177,033

 
$
1,463,536

 
$
417,095

 
$

 
$
2,896,948

The determination of the overall allowance for credit losses has two components, the allowance for originated loans and the allowance for acquired loans.
Total loans includes acquired loans of $304.0 million and $199.9 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, which were recorded at fair value when acquired. The ALL for acquired loans is evaluated at each reporting date subsequent to acquisition. For acquired performing loans, an allowance is determined for each loan pool using a methodology similar to that used for originated loans and then compared to the remaining fair value discount for that pool. For purchased credit impaired loans, estimated cash flows expected to be collected are re-evaluated at each reporting date for each loan pool. The methodology also considers the remaining fair value discounts recognized upon acquisition associated with purchased non-impaired loans in estimating a general allowance and also includes establishing an ALL for purchased credit-impaired loans that have deteriorated since acquisition.
7. Other Real Estate
The following table segregates the other real estate (“ORE”) by type.
(in thousands)
 
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
Commercial
 
$
8,616

 
$
7,147

Residential
 
5,892

 
1,263

Undeveloped property
 
4,974

 
10,267

Total ORE, net
 
$
19,482

 
$
18,677

The following table summarizes the changes in ORE.
 
 
For the Three Months Ended
March 31,
(in thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
Beginning balance
 
$
18,677

 
$
22,564

ORE acquired in acquisition
 
809

 

Transfers of loans to ORE
 
2,683

 
835

Sales
 
(2,303
)
 
(3,177
)
Write-downs
 
(384
)
 
(234
)
Ending balance
 
$
19,482

 
$
19,988

At March 31, 2016, there were no residential mortgage loans in the process of foreclosure. The unpaid principal balance of residential mortgage loans in the process of foreclosure at December 31, 2015 was $142,000.
8. Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Mortgage Loans Held-for-Sale
The Company records mortgage loans held-for-sale at fair value. The Company chose to fair value these mortgage loans held-for-sale to align results with the underlying economic changes in value of the loans and related hedge instruments. Interest income on mortgage loans held-for-sale is recorded on an accrual basis in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income under the heading “Interest income-loans, including fees.” The servicing value is included in the fair value of the mortgage loans held-for-sale and initially recognized at the time the Company enters into Interest Rate Lock Commitments (“IRLCs”) with borrowers.

18


The mark-to-market adjustments related to loans held-for-sale and the associated economic hedges are reported in noninterest income from mortgage banking activities in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
Valuation Methodologies and Fair Value Hierarchy
The primary financial instruments that the Company carries at fair value include investment securities available-for-sale, derivative instruments including IRLCs, and loans held-for-sale.
Debt securities issued by U.S. Government corporations and agencies, debt securities issued by states and political subdivisions, and agency residential mortgage-backed securities classified as available-for-sale are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. For these securities, the Company obtains fair value measurements from an independent pricing service. The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond’s terms and conditions, among other things. The investments in the Company’s portfolio are generally not quoted on an exchange but are actively traded in the secondary institutional markets.
The fair value of mortgage loans held-for-sale is based on what secondary markets are currently offering for portfolios with similar characteristics. The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include market trade pricing from brokers and investors and the mortgage-backed security markets. As such, the Company classifies these loans as Level 2.
The Company classifies IRLCs on residential mortgage loans held-for-sale, which are derivatives under ASC 815-10-15, on a gross basis within other assets or other liabilities. The fair value of these commitments, while based on interest rates observable in the market, is highly dependent on the ultimate closing of the loans. These “pull-through” rates are based on both the Company’s historical data and the current interest rate environment and reflect the Company’s best estimate of the likelihood that a commitment will ultimately result in a closed loan. The loan servicing value is also included in the fair value of IRLCs. Because these inputs are not transparent in market trades, IRLCs are considered to be Level 3 assets.
Derivative instruments are primarily transacted in the secondary mortgage and institutional dealer markets and priced with observable market assumptions at a mid-market valuation point, with appropriate valuation adjustments for liquidity and credit risk. For purposes of valuation adjustments to its derivative positions, the Company has evaluated liquidity premiums that may be demanded by market participants, as well as the credit risk of its counterparties and its own credit if applicable. To date, no material losses due to a counterparty’s inability to pay any net uncollateralized position have occurred. Derivative instruments are considered to be Level 3.
The credit risk associated with the underlying cash flows of an instrument carried at fair value was a consideration in estimating the fair value of certain financial instruments. Credit risk was considered in the valuation through a variety of inputs, as applicable, including, the actual default and loss severity of the collateral, and level of subordination. The assumption used to estimate credit risk applied relevant information that a market participant would likely use in valuing an instrument. Because mortgage loans held-for-sale are sold within a few weeks of origination, they are unlikely to demonstrate any of the credit weaknesses discussed above and as a result, there were no credit related adjustments to fair value during the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015.
The following tables present the financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to estimate the fair value at the measurement date. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2, and 3 during the three months ended March 31, 2016.
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2016
(in thousands)
 
Total Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices
 in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
 Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Investment securities available-for-sale
 
$
167,574

 
$

 
$
167,574

 
$

Mortgage loans held-for-sale
 
232,794

 

 
232,794

 

Other assets(1)
 
7,181

 

 

 
7,181

Other liabilities(1)
 
(2,497
)
 

 

 
(2,497
)

19


 
 
 
 
December 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Total Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices
 in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
 Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Investment securities available-for-sale
 
$
172,397

 
$

 
$
172,397

 
$

Mortgage loans held-for-sale
 
233,525

 

 
233,525

 

Other assets(1)
 
4,022

 

 

 
4,022

Other liabilities(1)
 
(651
)
 

 

 
(651
)
(1) Includes mortgage-related IRLCs and derivative financial instruments to hedge interest rate risk. IRLCs are recorded on a gross basis.
The following table presents a reconciliation of all assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015. The changes in the fair value of economic hedges were recorded in noninterest income from mortgage banking activities in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and are designed to partially offset the change in fair value of the financial instruments referenced in the following table.
 
 
As of or for the Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2016
 
2015
(in thousands)
 
Other
Assets
(1)
 
Other
Liabilities
(1)
 
Other
Assets
(1)
 
Other
Liabilities
(1)
Beginning balance
 
$
4,022

 
$
(651
)
 
$
2,691

 
$
(1,341
)
Total gains (losses) included in earnings:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issuances
 
7,181

 
(2,497
)
 
9,426

 
(4,602
)
Settlements and closed loans
 
(4,000
)
 
651

 
(2,588
)
 
1,341

Expirations
 
(22
)
 

 
(103
)
 

Ending balance
 
$
7,181

 
$
(2,497
)
 
$
9,426

 
$
(4,602
)
(1)Includes mortgage-related IRLCs and derivative financial instruments entered to hedge interest rate risk.
The following tables present the financial assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis by level within the fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to estimate the fair value at the measurement date.
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2016
(in thousands)
 
Total Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices
 in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
 Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Impaired loans
 
$
9,996

 
$

 
$

 
$
9,996

ORE, net
 
873

 

 

 
873

Residential mortgage servicing rights
 
67,703

 

 

 
67,703

SBA servicing rights
 
2,122

 

 

 
2,122

 
 
 
 
December 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Total Fair Value
 
Quoted Prices
 in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
 Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Impaired loans
 
$
8,447

 
$

 
$

 
$
8,447

ORE, net
 
1,847

 

 

 
1,847

Residential mortgage servicing rights
 
40,713

 

 

 
40,713

SBA servicing rights
 
2,132

 

 

 
2,132


20


Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements
The following table shows significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of Level 3 assets and liabilities:
 
 
Fair Value at
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
($ in thousands)
 
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
 
Valuation
Technique
 
Unobservable
Inputs
 
Range/Weighted
Average at
March 31, 2016
 
Range/Weighted
Average at
December 31, 2015
Nonrecurring:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impaired loans
 
$
9,996

 
$
8,447

 
Appraised value
less
estimated
selling costs
 
Estimated
selling costs
 
0% - 10%
9.40%

 
0% - 10%
9.70%

Other real estate
 
873

 
1,847

 
Appraised value
less
estimated
selling costs
 
Estimated
selling costs
 
0 - 10%
8.58%

 
0% - 10%
8.29%

Residential mortgage servicing rights
 
67,703

 
40,713

 
Discounted
cash flows
 
Discount rate
 
9.397% - 10.875%
9.62%

 
9.75% - 12.50%
10.06%

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Modeled prepayment
speeds
 
10.04% - 21.34%
11.48%

 
7.56% - 15.24%
8.66%

SBA servicing rights
 
2,122

 
2,132

 
Discounted
cash flows
 
Discount rate
 
12.78
%
 
13.25
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Modeled prepayment
speeds
 
8.88
%
 
9.41
%
Recurring:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IRLCs
 
6,630

 
3,001

 
Pricing
model
 
Pull-through
ratio
 
80.00
%
 
80.00
%
Forward commitments
 
(1,946
)
 
369

 
Investor
pricing
 
Pricing spreads
 
90.00% - 105.72%
103.23%

 
90.00% - 106.20%
102.67%

The tables above exclude the initial measurement of assets and liabilities that were added pursuant to acquisitions. These assets and liabilities were recorded at their fair value upon acquisition and were not remeasured during the periods presented unless specifically required by GAAP. Acquisition date fair values represent either Level 2 fair value measurements (investment securities, ORE, property, equipment and borrowings) or Level 3 fair value measurements (loans, deposits and core deposit intangible asset).
Impaired loans are evaluated and valued at the time the loan is identified as impaired, at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated closing costs. Measuring the impairment of loans using the present value of expected future cash flows, discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, is not considered a fair value measurement. For collateral-dependent loans, fair value is measured based on the value of the collateral securing these loans and is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. Collateral may include real estate or business assets, including equipment, inventory and accounts receivable. The value of real estate collateral is determined based on an appraisal by qualified licensed appraisers ordered by the Company. If significant, the value of business equipment is based on an appraisal by qualified licensed appraisers ordered by the Company; otherwise, the equipment’s net book value on the business’ financial statements is the basis for the value of business equipment. Inventory and accounts receivable collateral are valued based on independent field examiner review or aging reports. Appraised and reported values may be discounted based on management’s historical knowledge, changes in market conditions from the time of the valuation, and management’s expertise and knowledge of the client and client’s business. Impaired loans are evaluated on at least a quarterly basis for additional impairment and adjusted accordingly.
Foreclosed assets are adjusted to fair value less estimated selling costs upon transfer of the loans to ORE, which becomes the new carrying value of the ORE. Subsequently, foreclosed assets are carried at the lower of carrying value or fair value less estimated selling costs. Fair value is based on independent market prices, appraised values of the collateral, sales agreements, or management’s estimation of the value of the collateral using market data including recent sales activity for similar assets in the property's market. When the fair value of the collateral is based on an observable market price or a current appraised value, the Company records the foreclosed asset as nonrecurring Level 2. When an appraised value is not available or management determines there is no observable market price, the Company records the foreclosed asset as nonrecurring Level 3. Appraised and reported values may

21


be discounted based on management's historical knowledge, changes in market conditions from the time of the valuation, and management's expertise and knowledge of the client's business. Management continues to evaluate the appropriateness of appraised values on an annual basis.
Mortgage and SBA servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value when loans are sold with servicing retained. These assets are then amortized in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income. On at least a quarterly basis, these servicing assets are assessed for impairment based on fair value. Management uses a model operated and maintained by a third party to determine fair value which stratifies the servicing portfolio into homogeneous subsets with unique behavior characteristics. The model then converts those characteristics into income and expense streams, adjusting those streams for prepayments, present values the adjusted streams, and combines the present values into a total. If the cost basis of any loan stratification tranche is higher than the present value of the tranche, an impairment is recorded. See Note 11 for additional disclosures related to assumptions used in the fair value calculation for mortgage and SBA servicing rights.
Management makes certain estimates and assumptions related to costs to service varying types of loans and pools of loans, prepayment speeds, the projected lives of loans and pools of loans sold servicing retained, and discount factors used in calculating the present values of servicing fees projected to be received. No less frequently than quarterly, management reviews the status of mortgage loans held-for-sale for which fair value has been elected and pools of servicing assets to determine if there is any impairment to those assets due to such factors as earlier than estimated repayments or significant prepayments. Any impairment identified in these assets results in reductions in their carrying values through a valuation allowance and a corresponding increase in operating expenses.
The significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of the Company's IRLCs is the pull-through ratio, which represents the percentage of loans currently in a lock position which management estimates will ultimately close. Generally, the fair value of an IRLC is positive (negative) if the prevailing interest rate is lower (higher) than the IRLC rate. Therefore, an increase in the pull-through ratio (i.e., higher percentage of loans are estimated to close) will result in the fair value of the IRLC increasing if in a gain position, or decreasing if in a loss position. The pull-through ratio is largely dependent on the processing stage that a loan is currently in and the change in prevailing interest rates from the time of the rate lock. The pull-through ratio is computed by the secondary marketing department using historical data and the ratio is periodically reviewed by the Company's Secondary Marketing Department of the Mortgage Banking Division for reasonableness.     
Forward commitments are instruments that are used to hedge the value of the IRLC's and mortgage loans held-for-sale. The Company takes investor commitments to sell a loan or pool of newly originated loans to an investor for an agreed upon price for delivery in the future. This type of forward commitment is also known as a mandatory commitment. Generally, the fair value of a forward commitment is negative (positive) if the prevailing interest rate is lower (higher) than the current commitment interest rate. The value of these commitments is ultimately determined by the investor that sold the commitment and represents a significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of the Company's fair value of forward commitments.
Fair Value Option
The following table presents the difference between the aggregate fair value and the aggregate unpaid principal balance of loans held-for-sale for which the fair value option (“FVO”) has been elected as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. There were no loans held-for-sale that were 90 days or more past due or in nonaccrual status at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
(in thousands)
 
Aggregate Fair Value
March 31, 2016
 
Aggregate Unpaid
Principal Balance Under
FVO at March 31, 2016
 
Fair Value Over
Unpaid Principal
Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale
 
$
232,794

 
$
226,327

 
$
6,467

(in thousands)
 
Aggregate Fair Value
December 31, 2015
 
Aggregate Unpaid
Principal Balance Under
FVO at December 31, 2015
 
Fair Value Over
Unpaid Principal
Residential mortgage loans held-for-sale
 
$
233,525

 
$
228,586

 
$
4,939

The fair value gain related to mortgage banking activities for items measured at fair value pursuant to election of the FVO was $1.5 million and $494,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

22


The following table includes the estimated fair value of the Company's financial instruments. The estimated fair value of a financial instrument is the current amount that would be exchanged between willing parties, other than in a forced liquidation. Fair value is best determined based upon quoted market prices. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on settlements using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. In that regard, the derived fair value estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets, and, in many cases, could not be realized in immediate settlement of the instrument. The aggregate fair value amounts presented in the table below do not represent the underlying value of the Company.
 
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2016
(in thousands)
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Quoted Prices
 in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
 Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total Fair
Value
Financial instruments (assets):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
125,289

 
$
125,289

 
$

 
$

 
$
125,289

Investment securities available-for-sale
 
167,574

 

 
167,574

 

 
167,574

Investment securities held-to-maturity
 
15,248

 

 
11,446

 
4,165

 
15,611

Total loans, net
 
3,462,785

 

 
232,794

 
3,020,019

 
3,252,813

Financial instruments (liabilities):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits
 
885,319

 

 

 
885,319

 
885,319

Interest-bearing deposits
 
2,536,129

 

 

 
2,536,455

 
2,536,455

Short-term borrowings
 
189,278

 

 
189,278

 

 
189,278

Subordinated debt
 
120,355

 

 
117,730

 

 
117,730

 
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Quoted Prices
 in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
 Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total Fair
Value
Financial instruments (assets):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
86,133

 
$
86,133

 
$

 
$

 
$
86,133

Investment securities available-for-sale
 
172,397

 

 
172,397

 

 
172,397

Investment securities held-to-maturity
 
14,398

 

 
10,410

 
4,188

 
14,598

Total loans, net
 
3,268,318

 

 
233,525

 
2,846,139

 
3,079,664

Financial instruments (liabilities):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits
 
786,779

 

 

 
786,779

 
786,779

Interest-bearing deposits
 
2,392,732

 

 

 
2,391,993

 
2,391,993

Short-term borrowings
 
209,730

 

 
209,730

 

 
209,730

Subordinated debt
 
120,322

 

 
116,706

 

 
116,706

The carrying amounts reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for cash and cash equivalents approximate the fair values of those assets. For investment securities, fair value equals quoted market prices, if available. If a quoted market price is not available, fair value is estimated using quoted market prices for similar securities or dealer quotes.
Fair values are estimated for portfolios of loans with similar financial characteristics. Loans are segregated by type. The fair value of performing loans is calculated by discounting scheduled cash flows through the remaining maturities using estimated market discount rates that reflect the credit and interest rate risk inherent in the loans along with a market risk premium and liquidity discount. Covered loans are measured using projections of expected cash flows, exclusive of the loss sharing agreements with the FDIC.
Fair value for significant nonperforming loans is estimated taking into consideration recent external appraisals of the underlying collateral for loans that are collateral dependent. If appraisals are not available or if the loan is not collateral dependent, estimated cash flows are discounted using a rate commensurate with the risk associated with the estimated cash flows. Assumptions regarding credit risk, cash flows, and discount rates are judgmentally determined using available market information and specific borrower information.

23


The fair value of deposits with no stated maturities, such as noninterest-bearing demand deposits, savings, interest-bearing demand, and money market accounts, is equal to the amount payable on demand. The fair value of time deposits is based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows based on the discount rates currently offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities.
The fair value of the Company's borrowings is estimated based on the quoted market price for the same or similar issued or on the current rates offered for debt of the same remaining maturities.
For off-balance sheet instruments, fair values are based on rates currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the counterparties’ credit standing for loan commitments and letters of credit. Fees related to these instruments were immaterial at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, and the carrying amounts represent a reasonable approximation of their fair values. Loan commitments, letters and lines of credit, and similar obligations typically have variable interest rates and clauses that deny funding if the customer’s credit quality deteriorates. Therefore, the fair values of these items are not significant and are not included in the foregoing schedule.
Netting of Financial Instruments
Securities sold under repurchase agreements consist primarily of balances in the transaction accounts of commercial customers swept nightly to an overnight investment account. Securities sold under repurchase agreements are collateralized with investment securities having a market value no less than the balance borrowed, which can fluctuate daily. Securities sold under repurchase agreements are not subject to offset.
The following table presents the net position of securities sold under repurchase agreements.
(in thousands)
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Securities sold under repurchase agreements (1)
 
$
14,278

 
$
19,730

Fair value of securities pledged
 
22,039

 
23,058

Net position of overnight repurchase agreements
 
$
7,761

 
$
3,328

(1) Included as part of Short-term borrowings on the Consolidated Balance Sheets
The following table summarizes the collateral type pledged for the securities sold under repurchase agreements presented above.
(in thousands)
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
Municipal securities
 
$
7,690

 
$
8,240

Obligations of U.S. Government sponsored enterprises
 
4,994

 
4,932

Residential mortgage-backed securities
 
9,355

 
9,886

Total fair value of securities pledged
 
$
22,039

 
$
23,058

For both periods presented, all of the repurchase agreements contractually mature overnight. Risk arises if the collateral value drops below agreed upon levels and the Company would be required to pledge further securities. Management has mitigated this risk by reviewing the collateral on a daily basis, and reviewing the market value of the collateral on a monthly basis.
There are no derivative contracts subject to master netting agreements.
9. Derivative Financial Instruments
Gains of $1.3 million and $3.5 million were recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, for all mortgage-related derivatives, and are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income as part of noninterest income from mortgage banking activities.
The Company’s derivative positions were as follows:
 
Contract or Notional Amount as of
(in thousands)
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
Forward rate commitments
$
536,223

 
$
410,152

Interest rate lock commitments
296,397

 
181,188

Total derivatives contracts
$
832,620

 
$
591,340

The Company's derivative contracts are not subject to master netting arrangements.
10. Earnings Per Common Share
Earnings per common share (“EPS”) were calculated as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except per share data)
 
2016
 
2015
Net income
 
$
4,541

 
$
10,690

 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic (1)
 
24,273

 
21,380

Effect of dilutive stock options and warrants (2)
 
568

 
2,303

Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted
 
24,841

 
23,683

 
 
 
 
 
EPS:
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
$
0.19

 
$
0.50

Diluted
 
$
0.18

 
$
0.45

(1) Includes participating securities related to unvested restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures during the period
(2) Effect of dilutive stock options and warrants includes the dilutive effect of additional potential common shares issuable under contracts
As of March 31, 2016 and 2015, there were 378,000 and 112,000 common stock options which were not included in the potentially dilutive stock options and warrants, respectively. These shares were not included in the computation of diluted EPS because they were anti-dilutive in the period (i.e., the options' exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common shares.)
11. Certain Transfers of Financial Assets
Servicing rights
Loan servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value and subsequently recorded at the lower of cost or fair market and are amortized over the remaining service life of the loans. The carrying value of the loan servicing assets is shown in the table below:
(in thousands)
 
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
Servicing rights
 
 
 
 
Residential mortgage
 
$
69,927

 
$
72,766

SBA
 
5,449

 
5,358

Indirect automobile
 
7,503

 
6,820

Total servicing rights
 
$
82,879

 
$
84,944

Residential Mortgage Loans
The Company typically sells first-lien residential mortgage loans to third party investors, primarily Fannie Mae, Ginnie Mae, and Freddie Mac. The Company retains the related mortgage servicing rights (“MSRs”) and receives servicing fees on certain of these loans. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company sold $473.5 million and $492.2 million in residential mortgage loans, respectively, with servicing retained.
The net gain on loan sales, MSR impairment and amortization, and servicing fees are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income as part of noninterest income from mortgage banking activities. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded gains on sales of residential mortgage loans of $15.2 million and $19.7 million, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded servicing fees of $4.5 million and $3.6 million, respectively.

24


The table below is an analysis of the activity in the Company’s MSRs and impairment.
 
 
For the Three Months Ended
March 31,
(in thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
Residential mortgage servicing rights
 
 
 
 
Beginning carrying value, net
 
$
72,766

 
$
56,720

Additions
 
5,094

 
6,790

Amortization
 
(3,272
)
 
(2,362
)
Impairment, net
 
(4,661
)
 
(2,469
)
Ending carrying value, net
 
$
69,927

 
$
58,679

 
 
For the Three Months Ended
March 31,
(in thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
Residential mortgage servicing impairment
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
 
$
9,523

 
$
6,452

Additions
 
5,822

 
3,900

Recoveries
 
(1,161
)
 
(1,431
)
Ending balance
 
$
14,184

 
$
8,921

The fair value of MSRs, key metrics, and the sensitivity of the fair value to adverse changes in model inputs and/or assumptions are summarized below.
($ in thousands)
 
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
Residential Mortgage Servicing Rights
 
 
 
 
Fair Value
 
$
70,012

 
$
74,366

Composition of residential loans serviced for others:
 
 
 
 
Fixed-rate
 
99.32
%
 
99.28
%
Adjustable-rate
 
0.68
%
 
0.72
%
Total
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
Weighted average remaining term (years)
 
25.8

 
26.0

Modeled repayment speed
 
11.48
%
 
8.66
%
Decline in fair value due to a 10% adverse change
 
$
(3,089
)
 
$
(2,572
)
Decline in fair value due to a 20% adverse change
 
(5,697
)
 
(4,978
)
Weighted average discount rate
 
9.62
%
 
10.06
%
Decline in fair value due to a 10% adverse change
 
$
(2,746
)
 
$
(3,004
)
Decline in fair value due to a 20% adverse change
 
(5,079
)
 
(5,762
)
The sensitivity calculations above are hypothetical and should not be considered to be predictive of future performance. As indicated, changes in value based on adverse changes in model inputs and/or assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumption to the change in value may not be linear. In addition, the effect of an adverse variation in a particular assumption on the value of the MSRs is calculated without changing any other assumptions. In reality, changes in one factor may result in changes in another (for example, increases in market interest rates may result in lower prepayments), which may magnify or counteract the effect of the change.

25


Information about the asset quality of residential mortgage loans serviced by the Company is shown in the table below.
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
Net Charge-offs
for the Three
Months Ended
March 31, 2016
Residential mortgage loans serviced
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
 
 
 
 
 
Delinquent (days)
 
(in thousands)
 
 
30 to 89
 
90+
 
Serviced for others
 
$
6,893,992

 
$
31,071

 
$
5,968

 
$

Held-for-sale
 
226,327

 
208

 

 

Held-for-investment
 
321,297

 
992

 
3,353

 
13

Total residential mortgage loans serviced
 
$
7,441,616

 
$
32,271

 
$
9,321

 
$
13

Loans serviced for others are not included in the consolidated statements of financial condition as they are not assets of the Company.
Mortgage Recourse Liability
During the last five years ending March 31, 2016, the Company has sold over 44,000 loans with a principal balance of approximately $10.4 billion. As seller, the Company has made various representations and warranties related to, among other things, the ownership of the loans, the validity of the liens, the loan selection and origination process, and the compliance with origination criteria established by the purchasers. In the event of a breach of these representations and warranties, the Company is obligated to repurchase loans with identified defects and/or to indemnify the purchasers. Some of these conditions include underwriting errors or omissions, fraud or material misstatements, and invalid collateral values. The contractual obligation arises only when the breach of representations and warranties is discovered and repurchase/indemnification is demanded. Generally, the maximum amount the Company would be required to pay would be equal to the unpaid principal balance of such loans that are deemed to have defects that were sold to purchasers, plus accrued interest, return of the premium received at the time of the loan sale, and reimbursement of certain expenses. To date, the claims to the Company from the purchasers to be paid upon repurchase or paid because of indemnification have been insignificant. In addition, the Company’s loan sale contracts define a condition in which the borrower defaults during a short period of time as an early payment default (“EPD”). In the event of an EPD, the Company may be required to return the premium paid for the loan, pay certain administrative fees, and may be required to repurchase the loan or indemnify the purchaser unless an EPD waiver is obtained.
Management recognizes the potential risk from costs related to breaches of representations and warranties made in connection with residential loan sales and subsequent required repurchases, indemnifications, and EPD claims. As a result, the Company has established a liability to cover potential costs related to these events based on historical experience, adjusted for any risk factors not captured in the historical losses, current business volume, and known claims outstanding. The recourse liability totaled $1.4 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, and management believes this amount is adequate for potential exposure related to loan sale indemnification, repurchase loans, and EPD claims. Management will continue to monitor the adequacy of the reserve level and may decide that further additions to the reserve are appropriate. However, there can be no assurance that the current balance of this reserve will prove sufficient to cover actual future losses.
It should be noted that the Company’s loan sale activity began to increase at a time when underwriting requirements were strengthened from prior years and limited documentation conventional loans (i.e., non-government insured) were no longer eligible for purchase in the secondary market. Accordingly, the population of conventional loans the Company has sold has been underwritten based on fully documented information. While this does not eliminate all risk of repurchase or indemnification costs, management believes it significantly mitigates that risk.
SBA Loans
The Company has executed certain transfers of SBA loans with third parties. These loans, which are typically partially guaranteed by the SBA or otherwise credit enhanced, are generally secured by business property such as real estate, inventory, equipment, and accounts receivable. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company sold $11.5 million and $13.1 million in SBA loans, respectively.
The Company retains the loan servicing rights and receives servicing fees. The net gain on SBA loan sales, servicing rights impairment and amortization and servicing fees are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income as part of noninterest income from SBA lending activities. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded gains on sales of SBA loans of $856,000 and $860,000, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded servicing fees of $580,000 and $536,000, respectively.

26


The table below is an analysis of the activity in the Company’s SBA loan servicing rights and impairment.
 
 
For the Three Months Ended
March 31,
(in thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
SBA loan servicing rights
 
 
 
 
Beginning carrying value, net
 
$
5,358

 
$
4,872

Additions
 
293

 
236

Amortization
 
(315
)
 
(516
)
Recovery, net
 
113

 
50

Ending carrying value, net
 
$
5,449

 
$
4,642

 
 
For the Three Months Ended
March 31,
(in thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
SBA servicing rights impairment
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
 
$
243

 
$
1,818

Additions
 

 

Recoveries
 
(113
)
 
(50
)
Ending balance
 
$
130

 
$
1,768

The fair value of the SBA loan servicing rights, key metrics, and the sensitivity of the fair value to adverse changes in the model inputs and/or assumptions are summarized below.
($ in thousands)
 
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
SBA loan servicing rights
 
 
 
 
Fair Value
 
$
6,100

 
$
5,887

Composition of loans serviced for others:
 
 
 
 
Fixed-rate
 
0.20
%
 
0.05
%
Adjustable-rate
 
99.80
%
 
99.95
%
Total
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
Weighted average remaining term (years)
 
19.5

 
19.7

Modeled prepayment speed
 
8.88
%
 
9.41
%
  Decline in fair value due to a 10% adverse change
 
$
(185
)
 
$
(181
)
  Decline in fair value due to a 20% adverse change
 
(358
)
 
(353
)
Weighted average discount rate
 
12.78
%
 
13.25
%
  Decline in fair value due to a 10% adverse change
 
$
(136
)
 
$
(242
)
  Decline in fair value due to a 20% adverse change
 
(265
)
 
(466
)
The sensitivity calculations above are hypothetical and should not be considered to be predictive of future performance. As indicated, changes in value based on adverse changes in model inputs and/or assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumption to the change in value may not be linear. In addition, the effect of an adverse variation in a particular assumption on the value of the SBA loan servicing rights is calculated without changing any other assumptions. In reality, changes in one factor may magnify or counteract the effect of the change.

27


Information about the asset quality of SBA loans serviced by the Company is shown in the table below.
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
Net Charge-offs
for the Three
Months Ended
March 31, 2016
SBA loans serviced
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Delinquent (days)
 
(in thousands)
 
 
30 to 89
 
90+
 
Serviced for others
 
$
271,004

 
$
855

 
$

 
$
265

Held-for-sale
 
14,085

 

 

 

Held-for-investment
 
137,379

 

 

 

Total SBA loans serviced
 
$
422,468

 
$
855

 
$

 
$
265

Loans serviced for others are not included in the consolidated statements of financial condition as they are not assets of the Company.
Indirect Automobile Loans
The Company purchases, on a nonrecourse basis, consumer installment contracts secured by new and used vehicles purchased by consumers from franchised motor vehicle dealers and select independent dealers. A portion of the indirect automobile loans originated is sold with servicing retained and the Company receives servicing fees. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company sold $171.8 million and $219.8 million in indirect automobile loans, respectively.
The gain on loan sales and servicing fees are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income as part of noninterest income from indirect lending activities. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded gains on sales of indirect automobile loans of $2.8 million and $4.5 million, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded servicing fees of $663,000 and $1.9 million, respectively.
The table below is an analysis of the activity in the Company’s indirect automobile loan servicing rights:
 
For the Three Months Ended
March 31,
(in thousands)
2016
 
2015
Indirect automobile loan servicing rights
 
 
 
Beginning carrying value
$
6,820

 
$
3,305

Additions
1,297

 
1,861

Amortization
(613
)
 
(341
)
Ending carrying value
$
7,504

 
$
4,825

The Company has not recorded impairment on its indirect automobile loan servicing rights.
The fair value of the indirect automobile loan servicing rights, key metrics, and the sensitivity of the fair value to adverse changes in model inputs and/or assumptions are summarized below.
($ in thousands)
 
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
Indirect loan servicing rights
 
 
 
 
Fair value
 
$
9,148

 
$
9,803

Composition of loans serviced for others:
 
 
 
 
Fixed-rate
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
Adjustable-rate
 
%
 
%
Total
 
100.00
%
 
100.00
%
Weighted average remaining term (years)
 
4.9

 
5.0

Modeled prepayment speed
 
20.88
%
 
20.88
%
  Decline in fair value due to a 10% adverse change
 
$
(307
)
 
$
(322
)
  Decline in fair value due to a 20% adverse change
 
(598
)
 
(627
)
Weighted average discount rate
 
6.59
%
 
6.87
%
  Decline in fair value due to a 10% adverse change
 
$
(100
)
 
$
(109
)
  Decline in fair value due to a 20% adverse change
 
(198
)
 
(215
)

28


The sensitivity calculations above are hypothetical and should not be considered to be predictive of future performance. As indicated, changes in value based on adverse changes in model inputs and/or assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumption to the change in value may not be linear. In addition, the effect of an adverse variation in a particular assumption on the value of the indirect automobile loan servicing rights is calculated without changing any other assumptions. In reality, changes in one factor may magnify or counteract the effect of the change.
Information about the asset quality of the indirect automobile loans serviced by the Company is shown in the table below.
 
 
March 31, 2016
 
Net Charge-offs
for the Three
Months Ended
March 31, 2016
Indirect automobile loans serviced
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Delinquent (days)
 
(in thousands)
 
 
30 to 89
 
90+
 
Serviced for others
 
$
1,171,453

 
$
1,087

 
$

 
$
797

Held-for-sale
 
150,000

 

 

 

Held-for-investment
 
1,463,005

 

 

 

Total indirect automobile loans serviced
 
$
2,784,458

 
$
1,087

 
$

 
$
797

Loans serviced for others are not included in the consolidated statements of financial condition as they are not assets of the Company.


29


Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The following analysis reviews important factors affecting our financial condition at March 31, 2016 compared to December 31, 2015, and compares the results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015. These comments should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes appearing in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and the “Risk Factors” set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. All percentage and dollar variances noted in the following analysis are calculated from the balances presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Forward-Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that reflect our current expectations relating to present or future trends or factors generally affecting the banking industry and specifically affecting our operations, markets and services. Without limiting the foregoing, the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “may,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward looking statements are based upon assumptions we believe are reasonable and may relate to, among other things, the difficult economic conditions and the economy’s impact on operating results, credit quality, liquidity, capital, the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, changes in interest rates, and litigation results. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those projected for many reasons, including without limitation, changing events and trends that have influenced our assumptions.
These risks, trends and events include but are not limited to the following: (1) risks associated with our loan portfolio, including difficulties in maintaining quality loan growth, greater loan losses than historic levels, the risk of an insufficient allowance for loan losses, expenses associated with managing nonperforming assets, our ability to maintain and service relationships with automobile dealers and indirect automobile loan purchasers, and our ability to profitably manage changes in our indirect automobile lending operations; (2) risks associated with global, general, and local economic and business conditions, including economic recession or depression, the pace, consistency, and extent of recovery of values and activity in the residential housing and commercial real estate markets of the Atlanta metropolitan area as well as the Savannah, Georgia; Birmingham, Alabama and eastern, central, and northern Florida markets; (3) expectations of and actual timing and amount of interest rate movements, including the slope and shape of the yield curve, which can have a significant impact on a financial services institution; (4) market and monetary fluctuations, including fluctuations in mortgage markets; (5) inflation or deflation; (6) risks associated with government regulation and programs, uncertainty with respect to future governmental economic and regulatory measures, new regulatory requirements imposed by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”), new regulatory requirements for residential mortgage loan services, and numerous legislative proposals to further regulate the financial services industry, the impact of and adverse changes in the governmental regulatory requirements affecting us, and changes in political, legislative and economic conditions; (7) the ability to maintain adequate liquidity and sources of liquidity; (8) our ability to maintain sufficient capital and to raise additional capital; (9) the accuracy and completeness of information from customers and our counterparties; (10) the effectiveness of our controls and procedures; (11) our ability to attract and retain skilled people; (12) greater competitive pressures among financial institutions in our market areas; (13) failure to achieve the revenue increases expected to result from our investments in our growth strategies, including our branch additions and in our transaction deposit, trust and lending businesses; (14) the volatility and trading volume of our common stock, and our ability to pay dividends; (15) the impact of dilution on our common stock; (16) risks related to acquisitions; (17) compliance with certain requirements under our loss share agreements with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”); (18) risks associated with technological changes and the possibility of cyberfraud; (19) risks associated with adverse weather events in the geographic markets in which we operate; (20) our reliance on financial models and the accuracy of such financial models; and (21) our reliance on third party vendors.
This list is intended to identify some of the principal factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements included herein and are not intended to represent a complete list of all risks and uncertainties in our business. Investors are encouraged to read the related section in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the “Risk Factors” set forth therein. Additional information and other factors that could affect future financial results are included in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

30


Selected Financial Data
The following table contains selected consolidated financial data and should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and unaudited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in Item 1 of this report.
 
As of or for the Three Months Ended
($ in thousands, except per share data)
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
 
March 31,
2015
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
$
34,292

 
$
33,043

 
$
26,486

Interest expense
4,998

 
4,897

 
2,945

Net interest income
29,294

 
28,146

 
23,541

Provision for loan losses
500

 
3,097

 
108

Noninterest income
24,886

 
28,536

 
32,038

Noninterest expense
46,558

 
43,097

 
38,635

Net income
4,541

 
6,777

 
10,690

PERFORMANCE:
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per common share - basic
$
0.19

 
$
0.29

 
$
0.50

Earnings per common share - diluted
0.18

 
0.28

 
0.45

Book value per common share
$
12.96

 
$
13.03

 
$
12.85

Tangible book value per common share
12.40

 
12.66

 
12.64

Cash dividends paid per common share
$
0.12

 
$
0.10

 
$
0.09

Return on average assets
0.46
 %
 
0.72
%
 
1.40
%
Return on average shareholders' equity
5.90
 %
 
9.08
%
 
16.20
%
Net interest margin
3.25
 %
 
3.23
%
 
3.35
%
END OF PERIOD BALANCE SHEET SUMMARY:
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets
$
4,101,499

 
$
3,849,063

 
$
3,205,376

Earning assets
3,683,411

 
3,491,642

 
2,951,135

Loans, excluding loans held-for-sale
3,092,632

 
2,896,948

 
2,317,581

Total deposits
3,421,448

 
3,179,511

 
2,652,896

Shareholders' equity
329,778

 
301,459

 
274,898

Assets serviced for others
8,336,541

 
8,033,479

 
6,900,870

DAILY AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET SUMMARY:
 
 
 
 
 
Total assets
$
3,942,683

 
$
3,751,012

 
$
3,098,079

Earning assets
3,639,236

 
3,465,703

 
2,858,827

Loans, excluding loans held-for-sale
3,023,312

 
2,873,658

 
2,298,789

Total loans
3,370,645

 
3,186,124

 
2,656,556

Total deposits
3,212,691

 
3,146,089

 
2,530,988

Shareholders' equity
308,952

 
296,195

 
267,561

Assets serviced for others
8,162,343

 
7,902,116

 
6,742,214

ASSET QUALITY RATIOS:
 
 
 
 
 
Net (recoveries)/charge-offs, annualized to average loans
(0.20
)%
 
0.18
%
 
0.29
%
Allowance to period-end loans
0.86
 %
 
0.91
%
 
1.03
%
Nonperforming assets to total loans, ORE and repossessions
2.03
 %
 
1.93
%
 
2.33
%
Allowance to nonperforming loans, ORE and repossessions
0.42x

 
0.47x

 
0.44x

SELECTED RATIOS:
 
 
 
 
 
Loans to total deposits
90.39
 %
 
91.11
%
 
87.36
%
Average total loans to average earning assets
92.62
 %
 
91.93
%
 
92.92
%
Noninterest income to revenue
42.05
 %
 
46.34
%
 
54.74
%
Leverage ratio
8.88
 %
 
8.84
%
 
9.89
%
Common equity tier 1 capital
8.25
 %
 
8.21
%
 
9.12
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
9.47
 %
 
9.50
%
 
10.69
%
Total risk-based capital
12.21
 %
 
12.40
%
 
11.50
%
Overview
Since our inception in 1973, we have pursued managed profitable growth through providing quality financial services. Our overall focus is on building shareholder value. Our mission is to continue growth, improve earnings and increase shareholder value; to treat customers, employees, community and shareholders according to the Golden Rule; and to operate within a culture of strong internal controls.

31


Our franchise primarily spans the metropolitan Atlanta, Jacksonville, Orlando and Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida markets. We also conduct indirect automobile lending, residential mortgage lending and SBA lending activities in thirteen states.
During 2016 and 2015, we continued to expand our footprint and customer base with the opening of additional offices in our retail banking, mortgage lending, and indirect automobile lending divisions including the commencement of indirect automobile lending activities in Oklahoma, expansion of mortgage lending activities into North and South Carolina, the expansion of our retail branch network in Georgia and northern and central Florida through acquisitions, and de novo branch openings. Trust and wealth management began operations in July 2014 and continues to grow.
On March 1, 2016, we completed our acquisition of American Enterprise Bankshares, Inc. (“AEB”), the holding company for American Enterprise Bank of Florida, headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. We acquired AEB for $22.8 million. AEB shareholders received 0.299 shares of Fidelity common stock for each share of AEB common stock, resulting in the issuance of 1,470,068 common stock shares of Fidelity common stock. Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, AEB merged with and into the Company and American Enterprise Bank of Florida merged with and into Fidelity Bank. With this acquisition, we added approximately $208.8 million in assets, $147.4 million in loans, $1.3 million in core deposit intangible, $7.7 million in premises and equipment, $5.7 million in deferred tax assets, $4.8 million in goodwill, $181.8 million in deposits, and two retail branches.
Our lending activities are significantly influenced by the local economic environments in the markets we serve. We have grown our consumer installment, mortgage, construction and commercial loan portfolios organically and through acquisition as the economy continues to improve. Our loan portfolio is well diversified among consumer, business, and real estate lending. The credit quality of the loans we have originated continues to be strong.
We derive approximately half of our revenues from noninterest income sources such as service charges on loan and deposit accounts, fees on other services and income from mortgage banking, indirect automobile, and SBA activities. The majority of the noninterest income earned on these loan portfolios is generated from gains on sales of loans including recognition of loan servicing on the majority of loans sold. The retained servicing generates servicing revenue over the life of the loans sold. The revenue generated from gains on sales of loans and related servicing is partially offset by amortization and possible impairment of the related servicing rights. Servicing rights are amortized in proportion to the estimated future servicing income on the underlying loans sold. Impairment on servicing rights is recorded based on changes in the estimated and actual prepayment speeds and default rates and losses on the underlying loans sold.
A portion of our profitability, as with most financial institutions, is dependent upon net interest income, which is the difference between the interest we receive on interest-earning assets, such as loans and securities, and the interest we pay on interest-bearing liabilities, principally deposits and borrowings. Our net interest margin is affected by prevailing interest rates, nonperforming assets and competition among financial institutions for loans and deposits.
We continue to attract new customer relationships, and talented and experienced bankers to support our growth. During 2016, we plan to integrate and leverage our recent acquisitions and continued expansion. We will also continue to focus on credit quality, revenue growth, deposit growth and quality loan growth while maintaining adequate capital levels.
Financial Performance
We recorded net income for the three months ended March 31, 2016 of $4.5 million compared to $10.7 million for the same period in 2015, a decrease of $6.1 million, or 57.5%. Basic and diluted earnings per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2016 were $0.19 and $0.18, respectively, compared to $0.50 and $0.45, respectively, for the same period last year.
The year over year decrease in three month net income was primarily the result of a $6.6 million, or 30.9%, decrease in noninterest income from mortgage banking activities, a $4.6 million, or 24.4%, increase in salaries and employee benefits, offset by a $5.8 million, or 24.4%, increase in net interest income.
For the three months ended March 31, 2016, a much larger than usual mortgage servicing rights impairment charge of $4.7 million was recorded to reflect lower average market interest rates and subsequently higher prepayment speeds due to the volatile interest rate environment and uncertain global economic conditions. Year over year, gross servicing rights continued to increase as residential mortgage, SBA, and indirect loan sales remained strong.
Salaries and benefits for the quarter ended March 31, 2016 included approximately $525,000 in staffing costs related to the conversions of The Bank of Georgia and AEB acquisitions. In late March 2016, the system conversion of the October 2015 FDIC-assisted acquisition of The Bank of Georgia was completed. Also included in the increase in salaries and benefits is $1.1 million related to employer taxes and employee benefits, the majority of which resulted from an increase in medical premiums, representing an increase in both number of employees and the increased cost of employer-paid benefits. Additional increases in salaries and benefits include compensation expense related to employee bonus and incentive of $353,000 and expense relating to employee stock plans of $672,000, representing a larger number of officers receiving options during the quarter and greater compensation expense due to a higher market price compared to prior year grants.
On a linked-quarter basis, noninterest expense increased by $3.3 million, or 7.7%, primarily due to a $3.0 million increase in salaries, benefits and commissions, along with a decrease of $427,000 in occupancy costs. The increase in salaries and benefits were

32


primarily due to the increased employee benefits costs of $2.1 million described above, and $672,000 for the full cost of the annual tax wage base for each employee including the year over year increase of 129 employees. Also included in noninterest expense for the quarter was one month of acquisition costs from the AEB transaction closed on March 1, 2016. Noninterest expense for the quarter continued to be elevated as the final stage of The Bank of Georgia system conversion was completed in late March 2016 and planning began for the AEB conversion.
Results of Operations
Net Interest Income
Interest Income
Interest income was $34.3 million for the quarter, an increase of $7.8 million, or 29.5%, as compared to the same period in 2015. The majority of the increase occurred due to the year over year increase of $775.1 million, or 33.4%, in loans held for investment. Of this amount, $453.8 million resulted from year over year organic growth and $321.3 million was added as the result of acquisitions, including $146.9 million added during the quarter from the AEB acquisition. These increases resulted in a year over year increase in average loans of $714.1 million, or 26.9%, while the yield on loans (including the accretable discount earned on acquired loans) increased by 6 basis points. The acquired loans were recorded at market yields which are generally higher than the contractual yields of the acquired loans due to liquidity and credit discounts. The accretable discount is being accreted over the remaining weighted average life of the loans. Excluding the accretable discount recorded during the quarter, the yield on loans decreased by 10 basis points as compared to the same period last year as new loans, on average, were originated at lower yields over the previous twelve months.
On a linked-quarter basis, interest income increased by $1.2 million due to the increase in average loans during the quarter of $184.5 million, or 5.8%. Excluding the accretable discount recorded during the quarter on acquired loans, the yield on loans decreased by 17 basis points, mainly in the indirect automobile and mortgage portfolios.
Interest Expense
Interest expense was $5.0 million for the quarter, an increase of $2.1 million, or 69.7%, as compared to the same period in 2015, primarily due to the issuance of $75.0 million in subordinated debt in May of 2015. The subordinated debt bears interest at a fixed rate of 5.875%, which resulted in an additional $1.1 million in expense for the quarter as compared to the same period in the prior year.
The majority of the remaining $1 million increase in interest expense for the quarter occurred due to the year over year increase of $589.9 million, or 30.3%, in interest-bearing deposits. Of this amount, $450.1 million was added as the result of acquisitions, including $117.5 million added during the quarter from the AEB acquisition. The remaining $139.8 million in growth in interest-bearing deposits resulted from year over year organic growth.
On a linked-quarter basis, interest expense was flat, increasing by only $101,000, or 2.1%, as the increase in expense due to the growth in average interest bearing deposits of $41.1 million during the quarter was almost completely offset by a reduction in expense caused by a slight decrease of 1 basis point in the average rate.
Net Interest Margin
The net interest margin was 3.25% for the quarter, a decrease of 10 basis points as compared to 3.35% for the same period in 2015. The decrease was primarily attributable to an increase of 18 basis points in the cost of funds on the $2.8 billion in interest-bearing liabilities due to the $75 million subordinated debt issuance in May 2015. The increased funding cost was partially offset by an increase of 3 basis points in the yield on the $3.6 billion of earning assets. Excluding accretable discount recorded during the quarter on acquired loans, the net interest margin was 3.06%, or a decrease of 26 basis points compared to the same period in the prior year, due to the increased funding cost described above and a decrease in the yield on earning assets as new loans, on average, were originated at lower yields over the previous twelve months.
Although the net interest margin decreased year over year, net interest income (tax equivalent) rose to $29.4 million for the quarter, or 24.3%, as compared to $23.6 million for the same period in 2015. The increase in net interest income was primarily due to an increase of 27.3% in interest earning assets for the quarter compared to the same period in 2015, due to a combination of organic growth and acquisitions previously described.
On a linked-quarter basis, the net interest margin decreased by 2 basis points. Excluding the accretable discount recorded during the quarter on acquired loans, the net interest margin decreased by 15 basis points due to the decreasing trend in loan yields described above.

33


Average Balances, Interest and Yields (Unaudited)
 
For the Three Months Ended
 
March 31, 2016
 
March 31, 2015
($ in thousands)
Average
Balance
 
Income/
Expense
 
Yield/
Rate
 
Average
Balance
 
Income/
Expense
 
Yield/
Rate
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest-earning assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loans, net of unearned income(1)
$
3,370,645

 
$
32,976

 
3.93
%
 
$
2,656,556

 
$
25,333

 
3.87
%
Investment securities(1)
198,029

 
1,337

 
2.72
%
 
164,456

 
1,236

 
3.05
%
Other earning assets
70,562

 
67

 
0.38
%
 
37,815

 
12

 
0.13
%
Total interest-earning assets
3,639,236

 
34,380

 
3.80
%
 
2,858,827

 
26,581

 
3.77
%
Noninterest-earning assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and due from banks
28,530

 
 
 
 
 
15,311

 
 
 
 
Allowance for loan losses
(27,052
)
 
 
 
 
 
(25,258
)
 
 
 
 
Premises and equipment, net
82,559

 

 

 
60,979

 
 
 
 
Other real estate
19,894

 
 
 
 
 
22,219

 
 
 
 
Other assets
199,516

 
 
 
 
 
166,001

 
 
 
 
Total assets
$
3,942,683

 
 
 
 
 
$
3,098,079

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest-bearing liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Demand
$
1,051,221

 
$
694

 
0.27
%
 
$
812,833

 
$
453

 
0.23
%
Savings
358,481

 
304

 
0.34
%
 
309,393

 
255

 
0.33
%
Time deposits
1,015,996

 
2,267

 
0.90
%
 
803,000

 
1,784

 
0.90
%
Total interest-bearing deposits
2,425,698

 
3,265

 
0.54
%
 
1,925,226

 
2,492

 
0.52
%
Other borrowings
251,359

 
294

 
0.47
%
 
229,374

 
177

 
0.31
%
Subordinated debt
120,337

 
1,439

 
4.81
%
 
46,393

 
276

 
2.41
%
Total interest-bearing liabilities
2,797,394

 
4,998

 
0.72
%
 
2,200,993

 
2,945

 
0.54
%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities and shareholders' equity:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Demand deposits
786,993

 
 
 
 
 
605,762

 
 
 
 
Other liabilities
49,344

 
 
 
 
 
23,763

 
 
 
 
Shareholders' equity
308,952

 
 
 
 
 
267,561

 
 
 
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
3,942,683

 
 
 
 
 
$
3,098,079

 
 
 
 
Net interest income/spread
 
 
$
29,382

 
3.08
%
 
 
 
$
23,636

 
3.23
%
Net interest margin
 
 
 
 
3.25
%
 
 
 
 
 
3.35
%
(1) 
Interest income includes the effect of taxable equivalent adjustment using a 35% tax rate


34


Provision for Loan Losses
Management’s policy is to maintain the allowance for loan losses at a level sufficient to absorb probable incurred losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date. The allowance is increased by the provision for loan losses and decreased by charge-offs, net of recoveries, net of amounts due from the FDIC under the loss sharing agreements for our past FDIC-assisted transactions.
The provision for loan losses was $500,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2016, an increase of $392,000 compared to provision expense of $108,000 for the same period in 2015. Asset quality remained strong and the trend in historical net charge-offs continued to be low. Net loan recoveries were recorded during the quarter while the loan portfolio held for investment experienced organic growth of $48.3 million.
On a linked-quarter basis, the provision for loan losses decreased by $2.6 million, mainly as a result of net charge-offs of specific reserves in the commercial portfolio in the fourth quarter of 2015.
The following schedule summarizes the changes in the allowance for loan losses for the periods indicated.
 
As of or for the Three Months Ended March 31,
 
Year Ended
December 31,
($ in thousands)
2016
 
2015
 
2015
Balance at beginning of period
$
26,464

 
$
25,450

 
$
25,450

Net recoveries/(charge-offs):
 
 
 
 
 
Commercial
453

 
(815
)
 
(1,195
)
Construction
534

 
98

 
783

Consumer
(805
)
 
(872
)
 
(2,982
)
Mortgage
(43
)
 
(39
)
 
(52
)
Covered

 

 
324

Acquired, noncovered

 

 
55

Total net recoveries/(charge-offs)
139

 
(1,628
)
 
(3,067
)
Decrease in FDIC indemnification asset
(377
)
 
(172
)
 
(270
)
Provision for loan losses(1)
500

 
108

 
4,351

Balance at end of period
$
26,726

 
$
23,758

 
$
26,464

Annualized ratio of net charge-offs to average loans outstanding, net
(0.20
)%
 
0.29
%
 
0.12
%
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of loans
0.86
 %
 
1.03
%
 
0.91
%
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of loans, excluding acquired loans
0.96
 %
 
1.04
%
 
0.97
%
(1) Net of benefit attributable to FDIC indemnification asset
Management believes the allowance for loan losses is adequate to provide for losses inherent in the loan portfolio at March 31, 2016.

Noninterest Income
The categories of noninterest income, and the dollar and percentage change between periods, are as follows.
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
($ in thousands)
2016
 
2015
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Service charges on deposit accounts
$
1,370

 
$
1,083

 
$
287

 
26.5
 %
Other fees and charges
1,666

 
1,166

 
500

 
42.9

Mortgage banking activities
14,735

 
21,318

 
(6,583
)
 
(30.9
)
Indirect lending activities
4,264

 
5,979

 
(1,715
)
 
(28.7
)
SBA lending activities
1,234

 
930

 
304

 
32.7

Bank owned life insurance
454

 
492

 
(38
)
 
(7.7
)
Securities gains
82

 

 
82

 
100.0

Other
1,081

 
1,070

 
11

 
1.0

Total noninterest income
$
24,886

 
$
32,038

 
$
(7,152
)
 
(22.3
)%
Noninterest income was $24.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, a decrease of $7.2 million or 22.3%, as compared to the same period in 2015. The decrease in mortgage banking income for the quarter was mostly attributable to a decrease in gains on loan sales and a higher impairment charge on mortgage servicing rights, partially offset by increased loan servicing revenue.

35


Noninterest income from mortgage banking activities decreased by $6.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, as compared to the same period in 2015. Gains on mortgage loan sales decreased by $4.6 million for the quarter compared to the same period in 2015, primarily due to decreased refinanced loan volume year over year. In addition, production margins in 2016 were lower in comparison to the same period in 2015, primarily due to competition and changing product mix. Refinance volume made up approximately 28.5% of total production of $570.7 million for the quarter, as compared to 41.2% of total production of $613.0 million for the same period in 2015. Higher prior year refinance volume was primarily driven by changes to the FHA insurance program which caused a large population of borrowers to be eligible for savings from refinancing. Lower refinance volume in 2016 resulted in slightly lower mortgage loan sales of $547.6 million for the quarter, as compared to $552.1 million for the same period in the prior year. Gross purchase mortgage volume for the quarter was strong, increasing to approximately $407.0 million from $332.5 million, as compared to the same period in 2015.
Impairment on mortgage servicing rights for the quarter increased by $2.2 million to $4.7 million, as compared to the charge of $2.5 million recorded during the same period in 2015. As previously described, higher impairment of mortgage servicing rights for the quarter occurred due to higher projected prepayment speeds caused by lower average market interest rates.
Mortgage loan servicing revenue increased by $846,000 for the quarter to $4.5 million as compared to the same period in 2015 due to the increase in the portfolio of loans serviced for others to $6.9 billion.
Noninterest income from indirect lending activities was $4.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, a decrease of $1.7 million or 28.7%, as compared to the same period in 2015 due to the timing of loan sales from year to year.
On a linked-quarter basis, noninterest income decreased by $3.8 million, or 13.2%, primarily due to a decrease in income from mortgage banking activities of $4.1 million, which was driven by higher servicing rights impairment as compared to the fourth quarter of 2015. Impairment of mortgage servicing rights was $4.7 million for the quarter, an increase of $3.7 million as compared to the $1.0 million in impairment booked in the fourth quarter of 2015. Mortgage loan production income was fairly consistent with the fourth quarter result as mortgage loan production and sales remained steady in comparison to the linked quarter, posting increases of $2.9 million and $26.9 million, respectively.
Noninterest Expense
The categories of noninterest expense, and the dollar and percentage change between periods, are as follows.
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
($ in thousands)
2016
 
2015
 
$ Change
 
% Change
Salaries and employee benefits
$
23,423

 
$
18,822

 
$
4,601

 
24.4
%
Commissions
6,230

 
6,160

 
70

 
1.1

Occupancy, net
4,384

 
3,482

 
902

 
25.9

Communication
1,128

 
948

 
180

 
19.0

Other
11,393

 
9,223

 
2,170

 
23.5

Total noninterest expense
$
46,558

 
$
38,635

 
$
7,923

 
20.5
%
During the quarter, the Bank continued its strategy of increasing its footprint across a larger geographic area, and increasing loan and deposit production as well. The increase in noninterest expense for the quarter was mostly attributable to an increase in expenses associated with acquisitions as well as organic growth. Noninterest expense was $46.6 million for the quarter, an increase of $7.9 million, or 20.5%, as compared to the same period in 2015. The increase in noninterest expense for the quarter was mostly attributable to an increase in expenses associated with acquisitions as well as organic growth. Nonrecurring acquisition costs of approximately $1.1 million were included in the quarter, with nominal acquisition costs for the same period in 2015.
Increases of $4.6 million, or 24.4%, in salaries and employee benefits; $902,000, or 25.9%, in occupancy expense and $2.2 million, or 23.5%, in other noninterest expense were recorded as compared to the same period in 2015.
Salaries and benefits for the quarter reflect an increase due to the year over year increase of 24% in number of employees from 1,060 to 1,311 at March 31, 2016 as well as cost of living increases for continuing headcount. The increase also included approximately $525,000 in staffing costs related to the conversions of The Bank of Georgia and AEB acquisitions. In late March 2016, the system conversion of the October 2015 FDIC-assisted acquisition of The Bank of Georgia was completed. Also included in the increase in salaries and benefits is $1.1 million related to employer taxes and employee benefits, the majority of which resulted from an increase in medical premiums, representing an increase in both number of employees and the increased cost of employer-paid benefits. Additional increases in salaries and benefits include compensation expense related to employee bonus and incentive of $353,000 and expense relating to employee stock plans of $672,000, representing a larger number of officers receiving options during the quarter and greater compensation expense due to a higher market price compared to prior year grants.
On a linked-quarter basis, noninterest expense increased by $3.3 million, or 7.7%, primarily due to a $3.0 million increase in salaries, benefits and commissions, along with a decrease of $427,000 in occupancy costs. The increase in salaries and benefits was

36


primarily due to the increased employee benefits costs of $2.1 million described above, and $672,000 for the full cost of the annual tax wage base for each employee including the year over year increase of 129 employees. Also included in noninterest expense for the quarter was one month of acquisition costs from the AEB transaction closed on March 1, 2016. Noninterest expense for the quarter continued to be elevated as the final stage of The Bank of Georgia system conversion was completed in late March 2016 and planning began for the AEB conversion.
Income Tax Expense
Income tax expense was $2.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, an decrease of $3.6 million, or 58.0%, as compared to the same period in 2015. The primary driver of the changes in expense between periods was an increase in the level of pre-tax income reported for each period. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2016 was 36.2%, as compared to 36.5% for the same period in the prior year.
Financial Condition
Total assets at March 31, 2016 grew to $4.1 billion, an increase of $252.4 million, or 6.6%, compared to December 31, 2015. These increases are primarily attributable to acquisitions, as well as organic loan growth.
On March 1, 2016, the Company completed its stock purchase of American Enterprise Bankshares, Inc. (“AEB”), the holding company for American Enterprise Bank of Florida, headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. The Company acquired all of the common stock of AEB for $22.8 million. AEB shareholders received 0.299 shares of Fidelity common stock for each share of AEB common stock, resulting in the issuance of 1,470,068 shares of Fidelity common stock. With this acquisition, the Company added approximately $208.8 million in assets, $146.9 million in loans, $1.3 million in core deposit intangible, $7.7 million in premises and equipment, $5.7 million in deferred tax assets, $4.8 million in goodwill, $181.8 million in deposits, and two retail branches.
On October 2, 2015, the Bank acquired substantially all the assets and liabilities of The Bank of Georgia in a Purchase and Assumption agreement with the FDIC. With this acquisition, the Bank expanded its retail branch footprint by seven retail branches located in Coweta and Fayette counties, both of which are suburbs of Atlanta. The Bank received $266.4 million in deposits, $144.8 million in loans, $2.2 million in core deposit intangible, $9.0 million in premises and equipment, and $6.4 million in other real estate.
The acquisition of eight branches in Florida in September 2015 from First Bank, a Missouri bank, increased the deposit base by $151.1 million and added loans of $29.7 million. The cash from the acquired deposits was used to decrease other borrowings, which decreased $166.3 million during the quarter.
The Company accounts for its acquisitions as business combinations. As such, the purchase price for each acquisition has been allocated to the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date.
Total loans held for investment grew to $3.1 billion at March 31, 2016, an increase of $195.7 million and $775.1 million, or 6.8% and 33.4%, during the quarter and year over year, respectively. These increases were primarily the result of acquisitions and organic growth. Organic loan growth was $48.3 million during the quarter and $453.8 million year over year as the Bank continued to generate new business and leverage its expansion through acquisitions. The loan portfolio also increased due to the Bank's acquisition of $146.9 million and $321.3 million in loans during the quarter and year over year, respectively.
Commercial loans increased by $93.8 million and $278.0 million, or 13.3% and 53.6%, during the quarter and year over year, respectively. For the quarter, $13.2 million of the increase was related to organic growth, with the remaining $80.6 million added as part of the AEB acquisition. Year over year, $78.0 million of the increase in the commercial portfolio was related to organic growth, with $200.1 million added as the result of acquisitions.
Consumer loans, including indirect automobile and installment loans, grew by $38.0 million and $238.3 million, or 2.6% and 18.9%, during the quarter and year over year, respectively. For the quarter, $32.2 million of the increase was related to organic growth with the remaining $5.9 million added as part of the AEB acquisition. Year over year, $230.5 million of the increase was related to organic growth, with $7.8 million added as the result of acquisitions. The majority of the organic growth occurred in the indirect automobile portfolio as a result of continued expansion in the auto loan market.
Mortgage loans, including first mortgages and home equity lines of credit, increased by $39.6 million and $194.1 million, or 9.5% and 73.9%, for the quarter and year over year, respectively. The majority of the increase for the quarter occurred as a result of the AEB acquisition, while year over year, $118.3 million of the increase occurred due to organic growth. The primary driver of organic loan growth in the mortgage portfolio was the Bank's increased focus on portfolio lending as staff have been added and sales efforts were increased on products to grow the mortgage portfolio.
Servicing rights decreased slightly during the quarter to $82.9 million and increased by $14.7 million, or 21.6%, year over year. For the quarter, a much larger than usual mortgage servicing rights impairment charge of $4.7 million was recorded to reflect lower average market interest rates and subsequently higher prepayment speeds due to the volatile interest rate environment and uncertain global economic conditions. Year over year, gross servicing rights continued to increase as residential mortgage, SBA, and indirect loan sales remained strong.

37


Asset Quality
The following schedule summarizes our asset quality at the periods indicated.
($ in thousands)
March 31,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
 
March 31,
2015
NONPERFORMING ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
Nonaccrual loans
$
29,611

 
$
27,128

 
$
32,432

Loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing
1,671

 
1,284

 
1,006

Repossessions
1,751

 
1,561

 
1,002

Other real estate (ORE)
19,482

 
18,677

 
19,988

Nonperforming assets
$
52,515

 
$
48,650

 
$
54,428

NONPERFORMING ASSET RATIOS
 
 
 
 
 
Loans 30-89 days past due
$
8,180

 
$
9,353

 
$
3,934

Loans 30-89 days past due to loans
0.26
 %
 
0.32
%
 
0.17
%
Loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing to loans
0.05
 %
 
0.04
%
 
0.04
%
Nonperforming assets to loans, ORE, and repossessions
1.69
 %
 
1.67
%
 
2.33
%
ASSET QUALITY RATIOS
 
 
 
 
 
Classified Asset Ratio (1)
26.27
 %
 
17.56
%
 
20.45
%
Nonperforming loans as a % of loans
1.36
 %
 
1.24
%
 
1.44
%
ALL to nonperforming loans
63.83
 %
 
74.32
%
 
71.05
%
Net (recoveries)/charge-offs, annualized to average loans
(0.02
)%
 
0.18
%
 
0.29
%
ALL as a % of loans
0.86
 %
 
0.91
%
 
1.03
%
CLASSIFIED ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
Classified loans (2)
$
81,444

 
$
84,093

 
$
52,684

ORE and repossessions
17,009

 
17,125

 
14,508

Total classified assets (3)
$
98,453

 
$
101,218

 
$
67,192

 
 
 
 
 
 
       (1) Classified asset ratio is defined as classified assets as a percentage of Tier 1 capital plus allowance for loan losses.
       (2) Amount of SBA guarantee included
$
5,226

 
$
4,680

 
$
5,802

       (3) Classified assets include loans having a risk rating of substandard or worse, both accrual and nonaccrual, repossessions and ORE, net of loss share.
Mortgage Recourse Liability
During the last four calendar years and so far in 2015, the Company has sold over 44,000 loans with a principal balance of approximately $10.4 billion. As seller, the Company has made various representations and warranties related to, among other things, the ownership of the loans, the validity of the liens, the loan selection and origination process, and the compliance with origination criteria established by the purchasers. In the event of a breach of these representations and warranties, the Company is obligated to repurchase loans with identified defects and/or to indemnify the purchasers. Some of these conditions include underwriting errors or omissions, fraud or material misstatements, and invalid collateral values. The contractual obligation arises only when the breach of representations and warranties is discovered and repurchase/indemnification is demanded. Generally, the maximum amount the Company would be required to pay would be equal to the unpaid principal balance of such loans that are deemed to have defects that were sold to purchasers, plus accrued interest, return of the premium received at the time of the loan sale, and reimbursement of certain expenses. To date, the claims to the Company from the purchasers to be paid upon repurchase or paid because of indemnification have been insignificant. In addition, the Company’s loan sale contracts define a condition in which the borrower defaults during a short period of time as an early payment default (“EPD”). In the event of an EPD, the Company may be required to return the premium paid for the loan, pay certain administrative fees, and may be required to repurchase the loan or indemnify the purchaser unless an EPD waiver is obtained.
Management recognizes the potential risk from costs related to breaches of representations and warranties made in connection with residential loan sales and subsequent required repurchases, indemnifications, and EPD claims. As a result, the Company has established a liability to cover potential costs related to these events based on historical experience, adjusted for any risk factors not captured in the historical losses, current business volume, and known claims outstanding. The recourse liability totaled $1.4 million at March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. Management believes this amount is adequate for potential exposure related to loan sale indemnification, repurchase loans, and EPD claims. Management will continue to monitor the adequacy of the reserve level and may decide that further additions to the reserve are appropriate. However, there can be no assurance that the current balance of this reserve will prove sufficient to cover actual future losses.

38


It should be noted that the Company’s loan sale activity began to increase at a time when underwriting requirements were strengthened from prior years and limited documentation conventional loans (i.e., non-government insured) were no longer eligible for purchase in the secondary market. Accordingly, the population of conventional loans the Company has sold has been underwritten based on fully documented information. While this does not eliminate all risk of repurchase or indemnification costs, management believes it significantly mitigates that risk. Further, the Company has also received sale representation and warranty relief on a subset of sold loans which reduces potential future liability.
Deposits
Total deposits at March 31, 2016, of $3.4 billion increased $241.9 million, or 7.6%, compared to December 31, 2015. This increase is attributable to growth in interest-bearing demand and money market accounts of $89.8 million, or 8.6% as well as growth in time deposits of $60.6 million, or 6.1% compared to December 31, 2015. In addition, there was an increase in noninterest-bearing demand accounts of $98.5 million, or 12.5% compared to December 31, 2015. The increases were primarily the organic growth, as well as deposits from the AEB acquisition of $151.1 million.
Quarter to date average core deposits, including noninterest-bearing demand deposits, grew by $618.8 million, or 39.2%, compared to December 31, 2015, particularly in commercial accounts and through the AEB acquisition discussed above.
The following table summarizes average deposit composition and average rate paid for the periods presented.
 
For the Three Months Ended
 
March 31, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
 
March 31, 2015
($ in millions)
Average Amount
 
Rate
 
Percent of Total Deposits
 
Average Amount
 
Rate
 
Percent of Total Deposits
 
Average Amount
 
Rate
 
Percent of Total Deposits
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits
$
787.0

 
%
 
24.5
%
 
$
761.5

 
%
 
24.2
%
 
$
605.8

 
%
 
24.0
%
Interest-bearing demand deposits
1,051.2

 
0.27
%
 
32.7
%
 
1,020.2

 
0.26
%
 
32.4
%
 
812.8

 
0.23
%
 
32.1
%
Savings deposits
358.5

 
0.34
%
 
11.2
%
 
369.5

 
0.35
%
 
11.8
%
 
309.4

 
0.33
%
 
12.2
%
Time deposits
1,016.0

 
0.90
%
 
31.6
%
 
994.8

 
0.92
%
 
31.6
%
 
803.0

 
0.90
%
 
31.7
%
Total average deposits
$
3,212.7

 
0.41
%
 
100.0
%
 
$
3,146.0

 
0.42
%
 
100.0
%
 
$
2,531.0

 
0.40
%
 
100.0
%
Total deposits at March 31, 2016, of $3.4 billion increased $241.9 million and $768.6 million, or 7.6% and 29.0%, during the quarter and year over year, respectively. These increases were primarily the result of acquisitions of $181.8 million and $599.3 million in deposits during the quarter and year over year, respectively.
The majority of the increase occurred in noninterest bearing demand deposits which increased by $98.5 million and $178.6 million, or 12.5% and 25.3%, during the quarter and year over year, respectively. For the quarter, $34.2 million of the increase was related to organic growth, with the remaining $64.3 million added as part of the AEB acquisition. Year over year, $29.5 million of the increase was related to organic growth, with $149.2 million added as the result of acquisitions. During 2016, the Bank continued its marketing program, increasing the number of demand deposit accounts.
Money market deposits grew by $96.7 million and $194.4 million, or 14.9% and 35.4%, during the quarter and year over year, respectively. For the quarter, $42.6 million of the increase was related to organic growth with the remaining $54.1 million added as part of the AEB acquisition. Year over year, $56.9 million of the increase was related to organic growth, with $137.5 million added as the result of acquisitions.
Average core deposits, including noninterest-bearing demand deposits, grew by $329.8 million and $468.7 million, or 17.7% and 27.1%, during the quarter and year over year, respectively, particularly in commercial accounts and through the acquisition of branch deposits discussed above.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Market and public confidence in our financial strength and that of financial institutions in general will largely determine the access to appropriate levels of liquidity. This confidence is significantly dependent on our ability to maintain sound credit quality and the ability to maintain appropriate levels of capital resources.
We define liquidity as the ability to meet anticipated customer demands for funds under credit commitments and deposit withdrawals at a reasonable cost and on a timely basis. Management measures our liquidity position by giving consideration to both on-balance sheet and off-balance sheet sources of and demands for funds on a daily and weekly basis. In addition, due to FSC being a separate entity and apart from the Bank, it must provide for its own liquidity. FSC is responsible for the payment of dividends declared for its common and preferred shareholders, and interest and principal on any outstanding debt or trust preferred securities.

39


Sources of the Bank’s liquidity include cash and cash equivalents, net of federal requirements to maintain reserves against deposit liabilities; investment securities eligible for sale or pledging to secure borrowings from dealers and customers pursuant to securities sold under agreements to repurchase; loan repayments; loan sales; deposits and certain interest-sensitive deposits; brokered deposits; a collateralized line of credit at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta (“FRB”) Discount Window; a collateralized line of credit from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (“FHLB”); and borrowings under unsecured overnight Federal funds lines available from correspondent banks. The principal demands for liquidity are new loans, anticipated fundings under credit commitments to customers and deposit withdrawals. Substantially all of FSC’s liquidity is obtained from capital raises, subsidiary service fees and dividends from the Bank, which is limited by applicable law.
Management seeks to maintain a stable net liquidity position while optimizing operating results, as reflected in net interest income, the net yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities in particular. Our Asset Liability Management Committee (“ALCO”) meets regularly to review the current and projected net liquidity positions and to review actions taken by management to achieve this liquidity objective. Managing the levels of total liquidity, short-term liquidity, and short-term liquidity sources continues to be an important exercise because of the coordination of the projected mortgage, SBA and indirect automobile loan production and sales, loans held-for-sale balances, and individual loans and pools of loans sold anticipated to fluctuate during the year.
Our loans held for sale are considered highly liquid. The majority of commitments to purchase mortgage loans held-for-sale will be funded within one month of the loan closing. The majority of these loans are conforming residential mortgage loans sold to GNMA, FNMA and FHLMC. Other loans held for sale include commitments for both SBA loans and indirect automobile loans.
Shareholders’ Equity
Shareholders’ equity was $329.8 million at March 31, 2016, and $301.5 million at December 31, 2015. The increase in shareholders’ equity during the first three months of 2016 was primarily attributable to the common stock issued in the AEB acquisition closed on March 1, 2016. The net income earned during the quarter also increased shareholders' equity, which was partially offset by cash dividends paid to common shareholders during the quarter.
In December 2008, the U.S. Treasury purchased 48,200 shares of the Company's Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A (the “Preferred Stock”), and a warrant for an aggregate purchase price of $48.2 million in cash. On June 27, 2012, the Treasury sold all of its shares of the Company's Preferred Stock in a public offering as part of a modified Dutch auction process. The Company did not receive any proceeds from this auction.
On May 28, 2015, the U.S. Treasury sold its warrant in a private transaction with two unaffiliated third-party investors.
At December 31, 2015, there was one warrant outstanding to purchase 1,000,000 shares of our common stock. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we received a warrant exercise notice which resulted in the issuance of 500,000 shares of our common stock. The remainder of this warrant expires on December 18, 2018.
On April 3, 2014, we filed a shelf registration with the SEC for up to $100 million of common stock, preferred stock, warrants, or debt securities, to be issued from time to time for general corporate purposes which may include funding bank and non-bank subsidiaries, financing business expansion, or refinancing or extending the maturity of debt obligations and investments at the holding company level. As of March 31, 2016, the Company had not utilized the shelf registration.
Capital Ratios
FSC is regulated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve Board and is subject to the securities registration and public reporting regulations of the SEC. The Bank is regulated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) and the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance.
The Bank must comply with regulatory capital requirements established by the regulators. 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 our financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, we must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of our assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Our capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors. These capital standards require us to maintain minimum ratios of “Tier 1” capital to total risk-weighted assets and total capital to risk-weighted assets of 6.00% and 8.00%, respectively. Tier 1 capital is comprised of total shareholders’ equity calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income, less intangible assets and disallowed portions of our loan servicing rights, and total capital is comprised of Tier 1 capital plus certain adjustments, the largest of which is our qualifying subordinated debt, as well as the allowable portion of the allowance for loan losses. Risk-weighted assets refer to our on- and off-balance sheet exposures, adjusted for their related risk levels using formulas set forth in FDIC regulations.
In addition to the risk-based capital requirements described above, we are subject to a leverage capital requirement, which calls for a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to quarterly average total assets of 4.00%. The Bank is also subject to a Common Equity Tier

40


1 capital to total risk-weighted assets ratio of 4.5%. Common Equity Tier 1 Capital is comprised of Tier 1 capital less amounts attributable to qualifying non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock and minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries.
Basel III
In 2004, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (“BCBS”) published a new capital accord (“Basel II”) to replace Basel I. Basel II provided two approaches for setting capital standards for credit risk—an internal ratings-based approach tailored to individual institutions’ circumstances and a standardized approach that bases risk weightings on external credit assessments to a much greater extent than permitted in previous risk-based capital guidelines. Basel II also set capital requirements for operational risk and refined the existing capital requirements for market risk exposures.
In December 2010, the BCBS released its final framework for strengthening international capital and liquidity regulation, now officially identified by the BCBS as “Basel III.” Basel III, when fully phased-in, will require bank holding companies and their bank subsidiaries to maintain substantially more capital, with a greater emphasis on common equity.
The Basel III final capital framework, among other things, (i) introduces as a new capital measure “Common Equity Tier 1” (“CET1”), (ii) specifies that Tier 1 capital consists of CET1 and “Additional Tier 1 capital” instruments meeting specified requirements, (iii) defines CET1 narrowly by requiring that most adjustments to regulatory capital measures be made to CET1 and not to the other components of capital and (iv) expands the scope of the adjustments as compared to existing regulations.
On July 2, 2013, the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta (“FRB”) approved the final rules implementing the BCBS's Basel III capital guidelines (“final rules”) for U.S. banking organizations. Under the final rules, minimum requirements will increase for both the quantity and quality of capital we maintain. The rules include a new CET1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 4.5% and a CET1 capital conservation buffer of 2.5% of risk-weighted assets. The final rules also raise the minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets from 4.0% to 6.0% and require a minimum leverage ratio of 4.0%. The final rules also implement strict eligibility criteria for regulatory capital instruments.
On July 9, 2013, the FDIC approved, as an interim final rule, the Basel III regulatory capital requirements for U.S. banks, following the actions of the FRB. The FDIC's rule is identical in substance to the final rules issued by the FRB.
The Basel III final rules became effective for us on January 1, 2015, in which the Company began calculating its capital ratios in accordance with the final risk-based capital rules implementing the BSBC capital guidelines for U.S. banks. Capital ratios for FSC and the Bank are being calculated using the current phase-in applicable for 2015 and 2016. Full compliance with all requirements of the new capital guidelines will be phased in over a multi-year schedule ending in 2019.
Prompt Corrective Action
In July 2013, the final rules implementing the BCBS's Basel III capital guidelines increased regulatory capital requirements of U.S. banking organizations in a manner that more closely reflected risk exposures, and brought the regulatory capital framework into compliance with Basel III. The final rules revise the level at which the Bank becomes subject to corrective action. The federal banking agencies have broad powers with which to require companies to take prompt corrective action to resolve problems of insured depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements. The law establishes five capital categories for this purpose: (i) well-capitalized, (ii) adequately capitalized, (iii) undercapitalized, (iv) significantly undercapitalized, and (v) critically undercapitalized. The final rules amended the thresholds in the prompt corrective action framework to reflect the higher capital ratios required. Under the final rules, to be considered well-capitalized, an institution generally must have risk-based Total capital and Tier 1 capital ratios of at least 10% and 6%, respectively, and must not be subject to any order or written directive to meet and maintain a specific capital level for any capital measure. To be considered “adequately capitalized,” we are subject to minimum CET1, Tier 1 capital, and Total capital ratios of 4.5%, 6.0%, and 8.0%, respectively. While the prompt corrective action rules apply to banks and not bank holding companies, the FRB is authorized to take actions at the holding company level. Failure to meet applicable capital standards could subject the bank holding company or financial institution to a variety of enforcement remedies available to the federal regulatory authorities. These include limitations on the ability to pay dividends, the issuance by the regulatory authorities of a capital directive to increase capital, and the termination of deposit insurance by the FDIC. FSC is not subject to the provisions of prompt corrective action.

41


At March 31, 2016, the Bank’s capital ratios exceeded the regulatory minimum ratios discussed above. The following table presents the Bank's capital ratios and the minimum regulatory requirements:
 
 
 
Minimum Regulatory  Requirement
 
Fidelity
Bank
 
Adequately
Capitalized
 
Well
Capitalized
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio
8.25%
 
4.50%
 
6.50%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio
9.47%
 
6.00%
 
8.00%
Total risk-based capital ratio
12.21%
 
8.00%
 
10.00%
Leverage capital ratio
8.88%
 
4.00%
 
5.00%
Dividends
On April 21, 2016, we declared a cash dividend of $0.12 per share, payable on May 13, 2016, to holders of record as of May 2, 2016.
Future dividends require a quarterly review of current and projected earnings for the remainder of 2016 in relation to capital requirements prior to the determination of the dividend, and be subject to regulatory restrictions under applicable law. The Board of Directors for both the Bank and FSC will review on a quarterly basis whether to declare and pay dividends for the remainder of 2016, with the declared and paid dividend consistent with current regulatory limitations, earnings, capital requirements, and forecasts of future earnings.
Market Risk
Our primary market risk exposure is credit risk and, to a lesser extent, interest rate risk and liquidity risk. We have little or no risk related to trading accounts, commodities, or foreign exchange.
Interest rate risk, which encompasses price risk, is the exposure of a banking organization’s financial condition and earnings ability to withstand adverse movements in interest rates. Accepting this risk can be an important source of profitability and shareholder value; however, excessive levels of interest rate risk can pose a significant threat to assets, earnings, and capital. Accordingly, effective risk management that maintains interest rate risk at prudent levels is essential to our success.
ALCO, which includes senior management representatives, monitors and considers methods of managing the rate and sensitivity repricing characteristics of the balance sheet components consistent with maintaining acceptable levels of changes in portfolio values and net interest income with changes in interest rates. The primary purposes of ALCO are to manage interest rate risk consistent with earnings and liquidity, to effectively invest our capital, and to preserve the value created by our core business operations. Our exposure to interest rate risk compared to established tolerances is reviewed on at least a quarterly basis by our Board of Directors.
Evaluating our exposure to changes in interest rates includes assessing both the adequacy of the management process used to control interest rate risk and the organization’s quantitative levels of exposure. When assessing the interest rate risk management process, we seek to ensure that appropriate policies, procedures, management information systems, and internal controls are in place to maintain interest rate risk at prudent levels with consistency and continuity. Evaluating the quantitative level of interest rate risk exposure requires us to assess the existing and potential future effects of changes in interest rates on our consolidated financial condition, including capital adequacy, earnings, liquidity, and, where appropriate, asset quality.
Interest Rate Sensitivity
A form of interest rate sensitivity analysis referred to as equity at risk, is used to measure our interest rate risk by computing estimated changes in earnings and the net present value of our cash flows from assets, liabilities, and off-balance sheet items in the event of a range of assumed changes in market interest rates. Net present value represents the market value of portfolio equity and is equal to the market value of assets minus the market value of liabilities, with adjustments made for off-balance sheet items. This analysis assesses the risk of loss in the market risk sensitive instruments in the event of a sudden and sustained 100, 200, 300 and 400 basis point increase or decrease in market interest rates. In addition, management reviews the impact of various yield curve scenarios on earnings and cash flows.
The most recent rate shock analysis indicated that the effects of an immediate and sustained change in rates would fall within policy parameters and approved tolerances for equity at risk, net interest income and net income.
Rate shock analysis provides only a limited, point in time view of interest rate sensitivity. The actual impact of interest rate changes upon earnings and net present value may differ from that implied by any static rate shock. In addition, net interest income and net present value under various future interest rate scenarios are affected by multiple other factors not embodied in a static rate shock, including competition, changes in the shape of the Treasury yield curve, divergent movement among various interest rate indices, and the speed with which interest rates change.

42


Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We are a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of our customers, and to reduce our own exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. These financial instruments, which include commitments to extend credit and letters of credit, involve to varying degrees elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated financial statements. The contract or notional amounts of these instruments reflect the extent of involvement we have in particular classes of financial instruments.
Our exposure to credit loss, in the event of nonperformance by customers for commitments to extend credit and letters of credit, is represented by the contractual or notional amount of those instruments. We use the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as we do for recorded loans. Loan commitments and other off-balance sheet exposures are evaluated by the Credit Review department quarterly and reserves are provided for risk as deemed appropriate.
Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to customers as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the agreement. Substantially all of our commitments to extend credit are contingent upon customers maintaining specific credit standards at the time of loan funding. We minimize our exposure to loss under these commitments by subjecting them to credit approval and monitoring procedures. Thus, we will deny funding a commitment if the borrower’s financial condition deteriorates during the commitment period, such that the customer no longer meets the pre-established conditions of lending. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. We evaluate each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary upon extension of credit, is based on management’s credit evaluation of the borrower. Collateral held varies, but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant and equipment, and income-producing commercial properties.
Standby and import letters of credit are commitments issued by us to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loans or lines of credit to customers. We hold collateral supporting those commitments as deemed necessary.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
See “Market Risk” and “Interest Rate Sensitivity” contained in Item 2 of Part I of this report for quantitative and qualitative discussion about our market risk.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Fidelity’s management supervised and participated in an evaluation, with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined under Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on, or as of the date of, that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There has been no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the three months ended March 31, 2016, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

43


PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
We are a party to claims and lawsuits arising in the course of normal business activities. Although the ultimate outcome of all claims and lawsuits outstanding as of March 31, 2016 cannot be ascertained at this time, it is the opinion of management that these matters, when resolved, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
While the Company attempts to identify, manage, and mitigate risks and uncertainties associated with its business to the extent practical under the circumstances, some level of risk and uncertainty will always be present. Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 describes some of the risks and uncertainties associated with our business. These risks and uncertainties have the potential to materially affect our cash flows, results of operations, and financial condition. We do not believe that there have been any material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
(a)
 
(b)
 
(c)
 
(d)
Period
Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased
 
Average Price Paid per Share (or unit)
 
Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
 
Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units) Shares (or Units) That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
January 2016
25,840

*
$
18.89

 

 
$
10,000,000

February 2016

 

 

 
10,000,000

March 2016

 

 

 
10,000,000

Total
25,840

 
$
18.89

 
$

 
$
10,000,000

* These shares were repurchased under arrangements, authorized by the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, whereby officers or directors may sell previously owned shares to the Company in order to pay for income taxes owed on vesting shares of restricted stock. These shares are not purchased under the plan to repurchase 10,000,000 shares announced in April 2014.
The repurchase plan announced April 3, 2014, authorizing the repurchase of up to $10 million of our outstanding common stock, has no expiration date for the authorized share repurchases under such plan.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
Not Applicable
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not Applicable
Item 5. Other Information
Not Applicable

44


Item 6. Exhibits
(a)
Exhibits. The following exhibits are filed as part of this Report.
 
2(a)
Second Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of February 25, 2016 by and between Fidelity Southern Corporation and American Enterprise Bankshares, Inc. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 2.1 to Fidelity Southern Corporation's Form 8-K filed March 2, 2016)
 
3(a)
Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Fidelity Southern Corporation, as amended effective December 16, 2008 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3(a) to Fidelity Southern Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 17, 2009)
 
3(b)
Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of Fidelity Southern Corporation (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to Fidelity Southern Corporation’s Form 8-K filed November 23, 2010)
 
3(c)
By-Laws of Fidelity Southern Corporation, as amended (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3(b) to Fidelity Southern Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007)
 
3(d)
Amendment to By-Laws of Fidelity Southern Corporation (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.2 to Fidelity Southern Corporation’s Form 8-K filed November 23, 2010)
 
4(a)
See Exhibits 3(a) and 3(b) for provisions of the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, as amended, and Bylaws, which define the rights of the shareholders.
 
4(b)
Tax Benefits Preservation Plan dated November 19, 2010 between Fidelity Southern Corporation and Mellon Investor Services LLC as Rights Agent (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to Fidelity Southern Corporation’s Form 8-K filed November 23, 2010)
 
4(c)
Form of Global Note representing the Fixed/Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2030 of Fidelity Bank (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to Fidelity Southern Corporation's Form 8-K filed June 3, 2015)
 
31.1
Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
31.2
Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
32.1
Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
32.2
Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
101
Financial Statements submitted in XBRL format

45


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

 
 
 
FIDELITY SOUTHERN CORPORATION
 
 
 
 
 
      (Registrant)
 
Date:
May 9, 2016
 
BY:
 
/s/ JAMES B. MILLER, JR.
 
 
 
 
 
James B. Miller, Jr.
 
 
 
 
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
Date:
May 9, 2016
 
BY:
 
/s/ STEPHEN H. BROLLY
 
 
 
 
 
Stephen H. Brolly
 
 
 
 
 
Chief Financial Officer


46