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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2016                Commission File No. 000-16197

 

PEAPACK-GLADSTONE FINANCIAL CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

New Jersey 22-3537895
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
   
500 Hills Drive, Suite 300  
Bedminster, NJ 07921
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

Registrant's telephone number (908) 234-0700

 

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

 

Title of Each Class Name of Exchange on which Registered
Common Stock, No par value NASDAQ Global Select Market

 

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

NONE

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes__   No  X  .

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

Yes__   No  X  .

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  X     No__ .

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes  X     No __.

 

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

 

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 the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (Check one):

Large accelerated filer ___ Accelerated filer   X   
Non-accelerated filer ___ Smaller reporting company   __  

 

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

 

The aggregate market value of the shares held by unaffiliated stockholders was approximately $291 million on June 30, 2016.

 

As of March 6, 2017, 17,548,472 shares of no par value Common Stock were outstanding.

 

 

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 

Portions of the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “2017 Proxy Statement”) are incorporated by reference into Part III. The Company will file the 2017 Proxy Statement within 120 days of December 31, 2016.

 

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FORM 10-K

PEAPACK-GLADSTONE FINANCIAL CORPORATION

For the Year Ended December 31, 2016

Table of Contents

 

PART I    
     
Item 1. Business 4
     
Item 1A. Risk Factors 12
     
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments 20
     
Item 2. Properties 20
     
Item 3. Legal Proceedings 20
     
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosure 20
     
PART II    
     
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 21
     
Item 6. Selected Financial Data 23
     
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 24
     
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 52
     
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 56
     
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 102
     
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 102
     
Item 9B. Other Information 103
     
PART III    
     
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 103
     
Item 11. Executive Compensation 104
     
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 105
     
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 105
     
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 105
     
PART IV    
     
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 106
     
  Signatures 110

 

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PART I

 

Item 1.BUSINESS

 

The disclosures set forth in this Form 10-K are qualified by Item 1A-Risk Factors and the section captioned “Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements” in Item 7-Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this report and other cautionary statements set forth elsewhere in this report. The terms “Peapack,” “the Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries unless otherwise indicated or the context requires otherwise.

 

The Corporation

 

Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation is a bank holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “Holding Company Act”). The Company was organized under the laws of New Jersey in August 1997 by the Board of Directors of Peapack-Gladstone Bank (the “Bank”), its principal subsidiary, to become a holding company for the Bank. The Bank is a state chartered commercial bank founded in 1921 under the laws of the State of New Jersey. The Bank is a member of the Federal Reserve System. The Bank provides innovative private banking services to businesses, non-profits and consumers through its private banking locations in Bedminster, Morristown, Princeton and Teaneck, New Jersey, its wealth management division and its branch network in Somerset, Morris, Hunterdon and Union counties.

 

Our wealth management clients include individuals, families, foundations, endowments, trusts and estates. Our commercial loan clients are business people, including business owners, professionals, retailers, contractors and real estate investors. Most forms of commercial lending are offered, including working capital lines of credit, term loans for fixed asset acquisitions, commercial mortgages, multifamily mortgages and other forms of asset-based financing.

 

In addition to commercial lending activities, we offer a wide range of consumer banking services, including: checking and savings accounts, money market and interest-bearing checking accounts, certificates of deposit, and individual retirement accounts held in certificates of deposit. We also offer residential mortgages, home equity lines of credit and other second mortgage loans. Automated teller machines are available at 20 locations. Internet banking, including an online bill payment option and mobile phone banking, is available to clients.

 

Employees

 

As of December 31, 2016, the Company employed 338 full-time equivalent persons. Management considers relations with employees to be satisfactory.

 

Peapack-Gladstone Bank’s Private Wealth Management Division

 

The Bank’s Private Wealth Management Division, is one of the largest New Jersey-based trust and investment businesses with $3.7 billion of assets under administration as of December 31, 2016. It is headquartered in Bedminster, with additional private banking locations in Morristown, Princeton and Teaneck, NJ, as well as at the Bank’s subsidiary, PGB Trust & Investments of Delaware, in Greenville, DE. The Bank’s Private Wealth Management Division is known for its integrity, client service and broad range of fiduciary, investment management and tax services, designed specifically to meet the needs of high net-worth individuals, families, foundations and endowments.

 

We believe our wealth management business differentiates us from our competition and adds significant value. We intend to grow this business further both in and around our market areas through our Delaware Trust subsidiary; through our existing wealth, loan and depository client base; through our innovative private banking service model, which utilizes private bankers working together to provide fully integrated client solutions; and through potential acquisitions of complimentary and/or additive wealth management businesses. Throughout the wealth management division and all other business lines, we will continue to provide the unparalleled personalized, high-touch service our valued clients have come to expect.

 

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Our Markets

 

Our current market is defined as the NY-NJ-PA metropolitan statistical area. Our primary market areas are located in New Jersey and New York City, among the most attractive banking markets in the United States, with a total population exceeding 8.9 million in New Jersey and exceeding 8.5 million in New York and a median household income of $72,093 for New Jersey and $53,373 for New York City as of 2011-2015, compared to the U.S. median household income of $53,889 as of 2011-2015, according to estimates from the United States Census Bureau. Somerset County, where we are headquartered, is among one of the wealthiest in New Jersey, with a 2011-2015 median household income of $100,667 according to estimates from the United States Census Bureau. We believe that these markets have economic and competitive dynamics that are consistent with our objectives and favorable to executing our growth strategy.

 

Our Business Strategy

 

We began our growth strategy – Expanding Our Reach – in 2013 to principally address three industry headwinds:

 

·that we believed the low interest rate and tight spread environment would likely continue;
·that we believed costs associated with compliance and risk management would increase significantly; and
·that we believed our clients would continue to shift from traditional branches in favor of electronic channels.

 

Through 2016 the key elements of our business strategy have included:

·enhanced risk management;
·expansion of our commercial and industrial (C&I) lending business through Private Bankers and/or Private Banking teams, who lead with deposit gathering and wealth management;
·expansion of our wealth management business; and
·expansion of our residential and commercial real estate lending business.

 

In particular, we have focused on the following areas of our business:

 

  ·  Wealth Management. We have been in the wealth management business since 1972. The business adds significant value to our Company and differentiates us from many of our competitors. Conversations with all clients and potential clients across all lines of business have included and will continue to include a wealth management discussion. The market value of the assets under administration of the wealth management division was $3.7 billion at December 31, 2016.

 

·Commercial Lending. We have continued to help businesses emerge, expand and evolve. Through 2016, we grew our Commercial and Industrial (“C&I) and commercial real estate lending businesses. We further expanded our comprehensive C&I lending program designed to service individuals, professional service firms, foundations, and privately owned businesses. This C&I lending program, similar to our wealth management business, has been fully integrated into our private banking platform. Private bankers focus holistically on C&I lending, wealth advisory and deposit solutions to provide a high-touch, “white-glove” client service. Growth in 2017 and beyond will focus on C&I lending.

 

  ·   Retail Banking – Deposits. We see a lot of opportunity for growth in our core markets. We continued with the concept of high-touch relationship-style banking, which we introduced in 2013, to support the affluent segment of our branch network. Much like the private banking service model, this team has intimate knowledge of all Bank products and services and serves as the primary contact for clients seeking wealth, lending and deposit solutions. The structure of this team enables our existing branch network to maintain its primary objective of providing unique and unparalleled client service. Additionally, our private banking platform has and we believe it will continue to contribute significantly to our retail deposit growth, not only through stand-alone deposit relationships, but through comprehensive new relationships associated with C&I lending.

 

 

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Governmental Policies and Legislation

 

The banking industry is highly regulated. Statutory and regulatory controls increase a bank holding company’s cost of doing business and limit the options of its management to deploy assets and maximize income. Proposals to change the laws and regulations governing the operations and taxation of banks, bank holding companies and other financial institutions are frequently made in Congress, in state legislatures and before various bank regulatory agencies. The likelihood of any major changes and the impact such changes might have on the Company or the Bank is impossible to predict. The following discussion is not intended to be a complete list of all the activities regulated by the banking laws or of the impact of such laws and regulations on the Bank. It is intended only to briefly summarize some material provisions.

 

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010

 

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) was signed into law on July 21, 2010. The Dodd-Frank Act significantly changed the bank regulatory landscape and has impacted and will continue to impact the lending, deposit, investment, trading and operating activities of financial institutions and their holding companies.

 

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”) took over responsibility for the principal federal consumer protection laws, such as the Truth in Lending Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act and the Truth in Saving Act, among others, on July 21, 2011. Institutions that have assets of $10 billion or less, such as the Bank, will continue to be supervised in this area by their primary federal regulators (in the case of the Bank, the Federal Reserve Board (“FRB”)). The Dodd-Frank Act also gave the CFPB expanded data collecting powers for fair lending purposes for both small business and mortgage loans, as well as expanded authority to prevent unfair, deceptive and abusive practices.

 

In January 2013, the CFPB issued a series of final rules related to mortgage loan origination and mortgage loan servicing. In particular, the CFPB issued a final rule amending Regulation Z to implement certain amendments to the Truth in Lending Act. The CFPB issued a final rule implementing amendments to the Truth in Lending Act and the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act.  The rule amended Regulation Z by expanding the types of mortgage loans that are subject to the protections of the Home Ownership and Equity Protections Act of 1994 (“HOEPA”), revised and expanded the tests for coverage under HOEPA, and imposed additional restrictions on mortgages that are covered by HOEPA, including a pre-loan counseling requirement.  The rule also amended Regulation Z and Regulation X by imposing other requirements related to homeownership counseling.

 

In addition, the CFPB amended Regulation B to implement changes to the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. The CFPB also amended Regulation Z to implement requirements and restrictions to the Truth in Lending Act concerning loan originator compensation, qualifications of, and registration or licensing of loan originators, compliance procedures for depository institutions, mandatory arbitration, and the financing of single-premium credit insurance.  

 

The final rules also implemented the ability-to-repay and qualified mortgage (QM) provisions of the Truth in Lending Act, as amended by the Dodd-Frank Act (the “QM Rule”). The ability-to-repay provision requires creditors to make reasonable, good faith determinations that borrowers are able to repay their mortgages before extending the credit based on a number of factors and consideration of financial information about the borrower from reasonably reliable third-party documents. Under the Dodd-Frank Act and the QM Rule, loans meeting the definition of “qualified mortgage” are entitled to a presumption that the lender satisfied the ability-to-repay requirements. The presumption is a conclusive presumption/safe harbor for prime loans meeting the QM requirements, and a rebuttable presumption for higher-priced/subprime loans meeting the QM requirements. The definition of a “qualified mortgage” incorporates the statutory requirements, such as not allowing negative amortization or terms longer than 30 years. The QM Rule also added an explicit maximum 43 percent debt-to-income ratio for borrowers if the loan is to meet the QM definition, though some mortgages that meet GSE, FHA and VA underwriting guidelines may, for a period not to exceed seven years, meet the QM definition without being subject to the 43 percent debt-to-income limits.

 

The CFPB may issue additional final rules regarding mortgages in the future, including amendments to certain mortgage servicing rules regarding forced-placed insurance notices, policies and procedures and other matters. We cannot assure you that existing or future regulations will not have a material adverse impact on our residential mortgage loan business.

 

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On December 10, 2013, the FRB, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the “OCC”), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”), the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the “CFTC”) and the SEC issued final rules to implement the Volcker Rule contained in section 619 of the Dodd-Frank Act. The Volcker Rule prohibits an insured depository institution and its affiliates (referred to as “banking entities”) from: (i) engaging in “proprietary trading” and (ii) investing in or sponsoring certain types of funds (“covered funds”) subject to certain limited exceptions. The rule also effectively prohibits short-term trading strategies by any U.S. banking entity if those strategies involve instruments other than those specifically permitted for trading and prohibits the use of some hedging strategies.

 

To the extent the Dodd-Frank Act remains in place or is not materially amended by the new administration it is likely to continue to increase our cost of doing business, limit our permissible activities, and affect the competitive balance within our industry and market areas.

 

Capital Requirements

 

Pursuant to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 (“FDICIA”), each federal banking agency has promulgated regulations, specifying the levels at which a financial institution would be considered “well capitalized,” “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized,” or “critically undercapitalized,” and to take certain mandatory and discretionary supervisory actions based on the capital level of the institution. To qualify to engage in financial activities under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, all depository institutions must be “well capitalized.”

 

In July 2013, the FRB published final rules establishing a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banking organizations, referred to herein as the Basel Rules. The Basel Rules implemented the Basel Committee’s December 2010 framework, commonly referred to as Basel III, for strengthening international capital standards as well as certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act, as discussed below. The Basel Rules substantially revised the risk-based capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and depository institutions, including the Company and the Bank. The Basel Rules became effective for us on January 1, 2015 (subject to phase-in periods for certain components).

 

The Basel Rules, among other things, (i) introduced a new capital measure called “Common Equity Tier 1,” or CET1, (ii) specified that Tier 1 capital consist of CET1 and “Additional Tier 1 capital” instruments meeting specified requirements, (iii) applied most deductions/adjustments to regulatory capital measures to CET1 and not to the other components of capital, thus potentially requiring higher levels of CET1 in order to meet minimum ratios, and (iv) expanded the scope of the reductions/adjustments from capital as compared to existing regulations.

 

Under the Basel Rules, the minimum capital ratios for the Company and the Bank as of January 1, 2016 are as follows:

 

·4.5% CET1 to risk-weighted assets.
·6.0% Tier 1 capital (i.e., CET1 plus Additional Tier 1) to risk-weighted assets.
·8.0% Total capital (i.e., Tier 1 plus Tier 2) to risk-weighted assets.
·4.0% Tier 1 capital to average consolidated assets as reported on consolidated financial statements (known as the "leverage ratio").

 

When fully phased in on January 1, 2019, the Basel Rules will also require the Company and the Bank to maintain a 2.5% “capital conservation buffer”, composed entirely of CET1, on top of the minimum risk-weighted asset ratios, effectively resulting in minimum ratios of (i) CET1 to risk-weighted assets of at least 7.0%, (ii) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.5%, and (iii) total capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 10.5%. The capital conservation buffer is designed to absorb losses during periods of economic stress. Banking institutions with a ratio of (i) CET1 to risk-weighted assets, (ii) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets or (iii) total capital to risk-weighted assets above the respective minimum but below the capital conservation buffer will face constraints on dividends, equity repurchases and discretionary bonus payments to executive officers based on the amount of the shortfall. The implementation of the capital conservation buffer began on January 1, 2016 at the 0.625% level and will increase by 0.625% on each subsequent January 1, until it reaches 2.5% on January 1, 2019. As of January 1, 2017, the Company and the Bank were required to maintain a capital conservation buffer of 1.25%.

 

The Basel Rules provide for a number of deductions from and adjustments to CET1. These include, for example, the requirement that mortgage servicing rights, deferred tax assets dependent upon future taxable income and significant investments in common equity issued by nonconsolidated financial entities be deducted from CET1 to the extent that any one such category exceeds 10% of CET1 or all such categories in the aggregate exceed 15% of CET1.

 

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Under current capital standards, the effects of accumulated other comprehensive income items included in capital are excluded for the purposes of determining regulatory capital ratios. Under the Basel Rules, the effects of certain accumulated other comprehensive items are not excluded; however, non-advanced approaches banking organizations, including the Company and the Bank, may make a one-time permanent election to continue to exclude these items effective as of January 1, 2015. This election was made by the Company. The deductions and other adjustments to CET1 are being phased in incrementally between January 1, 2015 and January 1, 2018.

 

With respect to the Bank, the Basel Rules also revised the “prompt corrective action” regulations pursuant to Section 38 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, by (i) introducing a CET1 ratio requirement at each capital quality level (other than critically undercapitalized); (ii) increasing the minimum Tier 1 capital ratio requirement for each category; and (iii) requiring a leverage ratio of 5% to be well-capitalized. An institution will be classified as “well capitalized” if it (i) has a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10.0 percent, (ii) has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 8.0 percent, (iii) has a CET1 ratio of at least 6.5 percent, (iv) has a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 5.0 percent, and (v) meets certain other requirements. An institution will be classified as “adequately capitalized” if it (i) has a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 8.0 percent, (ii) has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 6.0 percent, (iii) has a CET1 ratio of at least 4.5 percent, (iv) has a Tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 4.0 percent, and (v) does not meet the definition of “well capitalized.” An institution will be classified as “undercapitalized” if it (i) has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 8.0 percent, (ii) has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 6.0 percent, (iii) has a CETI ratio of less than 4.5 percent or (iv) has a Tier 1 leverage ratio of less than 4.0 percent. An institution will be classified as “significantly undercapitalized” if it (i) has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 6.0 percent, (ii) has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 4.0 percent, (iii) has a CET1 ratio of less than 3.0 percent or (iv) has a Tier 1 leverage ratio of less than 3.0 percent. An institution will be classified as “critically undercapitalized” if it has a tangible equity to total assets ratio that is equal to or less than 2.0 percent. An insured depository institution may be deemed to be in a lower capitalization category if it receives an unsatisfactory examination rating. Similar categories apply to bank holding companies.

 

The Basel Rules prescribe a standardized approach for calculating risk-weighted assets that expand the risk-weighting categories from the current four Basel I-derived categories (0%, 20%, 50% and 100%) to a much larger and more risk-sensitive number of categories, depending on the nature of the assets.

 

The Bank’s capital ratios were all above the minimum levels required for it to be considered a “well capitalized” financial institution at December 31, 2016 under the “prompt corrective action” regulations in effect as of such date.

  

 

Insurance Funds Legislation

 

The Bank’s deposits are insured up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”). Under the FDIC’s risk-based system, insured institutions are assigned to one of four risk categories based on supervisory evaluations, regulatory capital levels and certain other factors with less risky institutions paying lower assessments on their deposits.

 

Effective July 1, 2016, the FDIC adopted changes that eliminated the risk categories. Assessments for institutions are now based on financial measures and supervisory ratings derived from statistical modeling estimating the probability of failure within three years. In conjunction with the Deposit Insurance Fund's reserve ratio achieving 1.15%, the assessment range (inclusive of possible adjustments) was reduced for insured institutions of less than $10 billion in total assets to a range of 1.5 basis points to 30 basis points.

 

 

Restrictions on the Payment of Dividends

 

The holders of the Company’s common stock are entitled to receive dividends, when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors of the Company out of funds legally available. The only statutory limitation is that such dividends may not be paid when the Company is insolvent. Since the principal source of income for the Company will be dividends on Bank common stock paid to the Company by the Bank, the Company’s ability to pay dividends to its shareholders will depend on whether the Bank pays dividends to it. As a practical matter, restrictions on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends act as restrictions on the amount of funds available for the payment of dividends by the Company. As a New Jersey chartered commercial bank, the Bank is subject to the restrictions on the payment of dividends contained in the New Jersey Banking Act of 1948, as amended (the “Banking Act”).

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Under the Banking Act, the Bank may pay dividends only out of retained earnings, and out of surplus to the extent that surplus exceeds 50% of stated capital. Under the Financial Institutions Supervisory Act, the FDIC has the authority to prohibit a state-chartered bank from engaging in conduct that, in the FDIC’s opinion, constitutes an unsafe or unsound banking practice. Under certain circumstances, the FDIC could claim that the payment of a dividend or other distribution by the Bank to the Company constitutes an unsafe or unsound practice. The Company is also subject to FRB policies, which may, in certain circumstances, limit its ability to pay dividends. The FRB policies require, among other things, that a bank holding company maintain a minimum capital base and serve as a source of strength to its subsidiary bank. The FRB by supervisory letters has advised holding corporations that it is has supervisory concerns when the level of dividends is too high and would seek to prevent dividends if the dividends paid by the holding company exceeded its earnings. The FRB would most likely seek to prohibit any dividend payment that would reduce a holding company’s capital below these minimum amounts.

 

Incentive Compensation

 

The Dodd-Frank Act requires the federal bank regulatory agencies and the SEC to establish joint regulations or guidelines prohibiting incentive-based payment arrangements at specified regulated entities, such as the Company and the Bank, with at least $1 billion in total assets that encourage inappropriate risks by providing an executive officer, employee, director or principal shareholder with excessive compensation, fees, or benefits or that could lead to material financial loss to the entity. In addition, these regulators must establish regulations or guidelines requiring enhanced disclosure to regulators of incentive-based compensation arrangements. The agencies proposed such regulations in April 2011 and proposed revised regulations in May 2016, but the revised regulations have not been finalized. If the revised regulations are adopted in the form proposed, they will impose limitations on the manner in which the Company may structure compensation for its executives and employees.

 

In June 2010, the FRB, OCC and FDIC issued comprehensive final guidance on incentive compensation policies intended to ensure that the incentive compensation policies of banking organizations do not undermine the safety and soundness of such organizations by encouraging excessive risk-taking. The guidance, which covers all employees that have the ability to materially affect the risk profile of an organization, either individually or as part of a group, is based upon the key principles that a banking organization’s incentive compensation arrangements should (i) provide incentives that do not encourage risk-taking beyond the organization’s ability to effectively identify and manage risks, (ii) be compatible with effective internal controls and risk management, and (iii) be supported by strong corporate governance, including active and effective oversight by the organization’s board of directors. These three principles are incorporated into the proposed joint compensation regulations under the Dodd-Frank Act.

 

The FRB will review, as part of its regular, risk-focused examination process, the incentive compensation arrangements of banking organizations, such as the Company, that are not “large, complex banking organizations.” These reviews will be tailored to each organization based on the scope and complexity of the organization’s activities and the prevalence of incentive compensation arrangements. The findings of the supervisory initiatives will be included in reports of examination. Deficiencies will be incorporated into the organization’s supervisory ratings, which can affect the organization’s ability to make acquisitions and take other actions. Enforcement actions may be taken against a banking organization if its incentive compensation arrangements, or related risk-management control or governance processes, pose a risk to the organization’s safety and soundness and the organization is not taking prompt and effective measures to correct the deficiencies.

 

Consumer Protection Regulations

 

The Bank is subject to federal consumer protection statutes and regulations promulgated under those laws, including, but not limited to the following:

 

·Truth-In-Lending Act and Regulation Z, governing disclosures of credit terms to consumer borrowers;
·Home Mortgage Disclosure Act and Regulation C, requiring financial institutions to provide certain information about home mortgage and refinanced loans;
·Equal Credit Opportunity Act and Regulation B, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, creed, or other prohibited factors in extending credit;
·Fair Credit Reporting Act and Regulation V, governing the provision of consumer information to credit reporting agencies and the use of consumer information; and
·Fair Debt Collection Act, governing the manner in which consumer debts may be collected by collection agencies.

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The Bank’s deposit operations are also subject to the following federal statutes and regulations, among others:

 

·The Truth in Savings Act and Regulation DD, which requires disclosure of deposit terms to consumers;
·Regulation CC, which relates to the availability of deposit funds to consumers;
·The Right to Financial Privacy Act, which imposes a duty to maintain the confidentiality of consumer financial records and prescribes procedures for complying with administrative subpoenas of financial records; and
·Electronic Funds Transfer Act and Regulation E, governing automatic deposits to, and withdrawals from, deposit accounts and customers’ rights and liabilities arising from the use of automated teller machines and other electronic banking services.

 

Many of the foregoing laws and regulations are subject to change resulting from the provisions in the Dodd-Frank Act, which in many cases calls for revisions to implementing regulations, such as the amendments described above in the discussion on the Dodd-Frank Act.

 

Holding Company Supervision

 

The Company is a bank holding company within the meaning of the Holding Company Act. As a bank holding company, the Company is supervised by the FRB and is required to file reports with the FRB and provide such additional information as the FRB may require.

 

The Holding Company Act prohibits the Company, with certain exceptions, from acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than five percent of the voting shares of any company which is not a bank and from engaging in any business other than that of banking, managing and controlling banks or furnishing services to subsidiary banks, except that it may, upon application, engage in, and may own shares of companies engaged in, certain businesses found by the FRB to be so closely related to banking “as to be a proper incident thereto.” The Holding Company Act requires prior approval by the FRB of the acquisition by the Company of more than five percent of the voting stock of any additional bank. Satisfactory capital ratios, Community Reinvestment Act ratings and anti-money laundering policies are generally prerequisites to obtaining federal regulatory approval to make acquisitions. The policy of the FRB provides that a bank holding company is expected to act as a source of financial strength to its subsidiary bank and to commit resources to support the subsidiary bank in circumstances in which it might not do so absent that policy. Acquisitions through the Bank require the approval of the FRB and the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (“NJDOBI”).

  

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“Sarbanes-Oxley Act”) added new legal requirements for public companies affecting corporate governance, accounting and corporate reporting.

 

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act provides for, among other things:

 

·a prohibition on personal loans made or arranged by the issuer to its directors and executive officers (except for loans made by a bank subject to Regulation O);
·independence requirements for audit committee members;
·independence requirements for company auditors;
·certification of financial statements within the Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q by the chief executive officer and the chief financial officer;
·the forfeiture by the chief executive officer and the chief financial officer of bonuses or other incentive-based compensation and profits from the sale of an issuer’s securities by such officers in the twelve month period following initial publication of any financial statements that later require restatement due to corporate misconduct;
·disclosure of off-balance sheet transactions;
·two-business day filing requirements for insiders filing on Form 4;
·disclosure of a code of ethics for financial officers and filing a Current Report on Form 8-K for a change in or waiver of such code;
·the reporting of securities violations “up the ladder” by both in-house and outside attorneys;
·restrictions on the use of non-GAAP financial measures in press releases and SEC filings;
·the formation of a public accounting oversight board;

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·various increased criminal penalties for violations of securities laws;
·an assertion by management with respect to the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting; and
·a report by the company’s external auditor on management’s assertion and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting.

 

Each of the national stock exchanges, including the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (NASDAQ) Global Select Market where the Company’s securities are listed, have implemented corporate governance listing standards, including rules strengthening director independence requirements for boards, and requiring the adoption of charters for the nominating and audit committees.

 

USA PATRIOT Act

 

As part of the USA PATRIOT Act, Congress adopted the International Money Laundering Abatement and Financial Anti-Terrorism Act of 2001 (the “Anti Money Laundering Act”). The Anti Money Laundering Act authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the heads of other government agencies, to adopt special measures applicable to financial institutions such as banks, bank holding companies, broker-dealers and insurance companies. Among its other provisions, the Anti Money Laundering Act requires each financial institution: (i) to establish an anti-money laundering program; (ii) to establish due diligence policies, procedures and controls that are reasonably designed to detect and report instances of money laundering in United States private banking accounts and correspondent accounts maintained for non-United States persons or their representatives; and (iii) to avoid establishing, maintaining, administering, or managing correspondent accounts in the United States for, or on behalf of, a foreign shell bank that does not have a physical presence in any country. In addition, the Anti Money Laundering Act expands the circumstances under which funds in a bank account may be forfeited and requires covered financial institutions to respond under certain circumstances to requests for information from federal banking agencies within 120 hours.

 

Regulations implementing the due diligence requirements, require minimum standards to verify customer identity and maintain accurate records, encourage cooperation among financial institutions, federal banking agencies, and law enforcement authorities regarding possible money laundering or terrorist activities, prohibit the anonymous use of “concentration accounts,” and requires all covered financial institutions to have in place an anti-money laundering compliance program. Federal and state banking agencies have strictly enforced various anti-money laundering and suspicious activity reporting requirements using formal and informal enforcement tools to cause banks to comply with these provisions.

 

The Anti Money Laundering Act amended the Holding Company Act and the Bank Merger Act to require the federal banking agencies to consider the effectiveness of any financial institution involved in a proposed merger transaction in combating money laundering activities when reviewing an application under these acts.

 

Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act

 

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Financial Modernization Act of 1999 (“Modernization Act”) became effective in early 2000. The Modernization Act:

 

·allows bank holding companies meeting management, capital and Community Reinvestment Act standards to engage in a substantially broader range of non-banking activities than was previously permissible, including insurance underwriting;
·allows insurers and other financial services companies to acquire banks;
·removes various restrictions that previously applied to bank holding company ownership of securities firms and mutual fund advisory companies; and
·establishes the overall regulatory structure applicable to bank holding companies that also engage in insurance and securities operations.

 

If a bank holding company elects to become a financial holding company, it files a certification, effective in 30 days, and thereafter may engage in certain financial activities without further approvals. The Company has not elected to become a financial holding company.

 

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The Modernization Act modified other financial laws, including laws related to financial privacy and community reinvestment.

 

Item 1A.RISK FACTORS

 

The material risks and uncertainties that Management believes affect the Company are described below. These risks and uncertainties are not the only ones affecting the Company. Additional risks and uncertainties that Management is not aware of or focused on or that Management currently deems immaterial may also impair the Company’s business operations. This report is qualified in its entirety by these risk factors. If any one or more of the following risks actually occur, the Company’s financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Risks Relating to Ownership of Our Common Stock

 

We may not be able to continue to grow our business, which may adversely impact our results of operations.  

 

Our business strategy calls for continued expansion. Our ability to continue to grow depends, in part, upon our ability to successfully attract deposits and identify favorable loan and investment opportunities. We expect to add personnel to assist in this growth. In the event that we do not continue to grow, or the new personnel do not produce sufficient new revenues, our results of operations could be adversely impacted.

 

We may not be able to manage our growth, which may adversely impact our financial results.  

 

As part of our expansion strategy, we plan to broaden and expand our commercial lending in both existing and new geographic markets. In addition, as part of our expansion strategy, we may add new lines of business or offer new products and services within existing lines of business. There are substantial risks and uncertainties associated with these efforts, particularly in instances where the markets are not fully developed. We may invest significant time and resources to develop and market new lines of business and/or products and services. Initial timetables for the introduction and development of new lines of business and/or new products or services may not be achieved and price and profitability targets may not prove feasible. External factors, such as compliance with regulations, competitive alternatives, and shifting customer preferences may also impact the successful implementation of a new line of business or a new product or service. Additionally, any new line of business and/or new product or service could have a significant impact on the effectiveness of our system of internal controls. Failure to successfully manage these risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

Our ability to implement our expansion strategy will depend upon a variety of factors, including our ability to attract and retain experienced personnel, the continued availability of desirable business opportunities and locations, the competitive responses from other financial institutions in the new market areas and our ability to manage growth. In order to implement our expansion strategy, we plan to hire new personnel in our existing and target markets. However, we may be unable to hire qualified management. In addition, the organizational and overhead costs may be greater than we anticipated. Moreover, we may not be able to obtain the regulatory approvals necessary. New business expansion efforts may take longer than expected to reach profitability, and we cannot assure that they will become profitable. The additional costs of adding new personnel may adversely impact our financial results.

 

Our ability to manage growth successfully will depend on whether we can continue to fund this growth while maintaining cost controls and asset quality, as well as on factors beyond our control, such as national and regional economic conditions and interest rate trends. If we are not able to control costs and maintain asset quality, such growth could adversely impact our earnings and financial condition.

 

The Company is required by Federal regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support its operations. The Company may at some point need to raise additional capital to support continued growth. The Company’s ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on conditions in the capital markets at that time, which are outside the Company’s control, and on its financial performance. Accordingly, the Company cannot assure you of its ability to raise additional capital if needed or on terms acceptable to the Company. If the Company cannot raise additional capital when needed, the ability to further expand its operations could be materially impaired.

 

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The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act has and may continue to adversely affect our business activities, financial position and profitability by increasing our regulatory compliance burden and associated costs, placing restrictions on certain products and services, and limiting our future capital raising strategies. 

 

On July 21, 2010, the President signed into law the Dodd-Frank Act, which implements significant changes in the financial regulatory landscape and will impact all financial institutions, including the Company and the Bank.  The Dodd-Frank Act has and may continue to increase our regulatory compliance burden.  

 

Among the Dodd-Frank Act’s significant regulatory changes, it created the CFPB that is empowered to promulgate new consumer protection regulations and revise existing regulations in many areas of consumer protection.   The CFPB has exclusive authority to issue regulations, orders and guidance to administer and implement the objectives of federal consumer protection laws.  Moreover, the Dodd-Frank Act permits states to adopt stricter consumer protection laws and state attorney generals may enforce consumer protection rules issued by the CFPB.  The Dodd-Frank Act also changes the scope of federal deposit insurance coverage.  The CFPB and these other changes have increased, and will continue to increase, our regulatory compliance burden and costs and may restrict the financial products and services we offer to our clients.

 

The Dodd-Frank Act also imposed more stringent capital requirements on bank holding companies by, among other things, imposing leverage ratios on bank holding companies and prohibiting new trust preferred issuances from counting as Tier I capital.  These restrictions may limit our future capital strategies.  The Dodd-Frank Act also increases regulation of derivatives and hedging transactions, which could limit our ability to enter into, or increase the costs associated with, interest rate and other hedging transactions.

 

Although certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act, such as required direct supervision by the CFPB, will not apply to banking organizations with less than $10 billion of assets, such as the Company and the Bank, the changes resulting from the legislation will impact our business.  New consumer protection rules issued by the CFPB will apply to us. These changes will require us to invest significant management attention and resources to evaluate and make necessary changes.

 

Negative developments in the financial services industry and U.S. and global credit markets may adversely impact our operations and results.

 

Our businesses and operations, which primarily consist of lending money to clients in the form of loans, borrowing money from clients in the form of deposits and investing in securities, are sensitive to general business and economic conditions in the United States. If the U.S. economy weakens, our growth and profitability from our lending, deposit and investment operations could be constrained. Uncertainty about the federal fiscal policymaking process, the medium and long-term fiscal outlook of the federal government and future tax rates is a concern for businesses, consumers and investors in the United States. In addition, economic conditions in foreign countries could affect the stability of global financial markets, which could hinder U.S. economic growth. Weak economic conditions are often characterized by deflation, fluctuations in debt and equity capital markets, a lack of liquidity and/or depressed prices in the secondary market for mortgage loans, increased delinquencies on mortgage, consumer and commercial loans, residential and commercial real estate price declines and lower home sales and commercial activity.

 

The current economic environment is also characterized by interest rates at continued low levels, which impacts our ability to attract deposits and to generate attractive earnings through our investment portfolio. All of these factors are detrimental to our business, and the interplay between these factors can be complex and unpredictable. Our business is also significantly affected by monetary and related policies of the U.S. federal government and its agencies. Changes in any of these policies are influenced by macroeconomic conditions and other factors that are beyond our control. Adverse economic conditions and government policy responses to such conditions could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

We are more sensitive than our more geographically diversified competitors to adverse changes in the local economy.

 

Much of our business is with clients located within Central and Northern New Jersey, as well as New York City. Our business loans are generally made to small to mid-sized businesses, most of whose success depends on the regional economy. These businesses generally have fewer financial resources in terms of capital or borrowing capacity than larger entities. Adverse economic and business conditions in our market area could reduce our growth rate, affect our borrowers' ability to repay their loans and, consequently, adversely affect our financial condition and performance. Further, we place

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substantial reliance on real estate as collateral for our loan portfolio. A sharp downturn in real estate values in our market area could leave many of our loans under-secured, which could adversely affect our earnings.

 

If our allowance for loan losses were not sufficient to cover actual loan losses, our earnings would decrease.

 

We maintain an allowance for loan losses based on, among other things, the level of non-performing loans, loan growth, national and regional economic conditions, historical loss experience, delinquency trends among loan types and various qualitative factors. However, we cannot predict loan losses with certainty and we cannot assure you that charge-offs in future periods will not exceed the allowance for loan losses. In addition, regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, review our allowance for loan losses and may require additions to the allowance based on their judgment about information available to them at the time of their examination. Factors that require an increase in our allowance for loan losses could reduce our earnings.

 

Changes in interest rates may adversely affect our earnings and financial condition.

 

Our net income depends primarily upon our net interest income. Net interest income is the difference between interest income earned on loans, investments and other interest-earning assets and the interest expense incurred on deposits and borrowed funds.

 

Different types of assets and liabilities may react differently, and at different times, to changes in market interest rates. We expect that we will periodically experience “gaps” in the interest rate sensitivities of our assets and liabilities. That means either our interest-bearing liabilities will be more sensitive to changes in market interest rates than our interest-earning assets, or vice versa. When interest-bearing liabilities mature or reprice more quickly than interest-earning assets, an increase in market rates of interest could reduce our net interest income. Likewise, when interest-earning assets mature or reprice more quickly than interest-bearing liabilities, falling interest rates could reduce our net interest income. We are unable to predict changes in market interest rates, which are affected by many factors beyond our control, including inflation, recession, unemployment, money supply, domestic and international events and changes in the United States and other financial markets.

 

Our exposure to credit risk could adversely affect our earnings and financial condition.

 

There are certain risks inherent in making loans, including risks that the principal of or interest on the loan will not be repaid timely or at all or that the value of any collateral supporting the loan will be insufficient to cover our outstanding exposure. These risks may be affected by the strength of the borrower’s business sector and local, regional and national market and economic conditions. Our risk management practices, such as monitoring the concentration of our loans within specific industries and our credit approval practices, may not adequately reduce credit risk, and our credit administration personnel, policies and procedures may not adequately adapt to changes in economic or any other conditions affecting clients and the quality of the loan portfolio. Finally, many of our loans are made to small and medium-sized businesses that are less able to withstand competitive, economic and financial pressures than larger borrowers. A failure to effectively measure and limit the credit risk associated with our loan portfolio could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

Competition from other financial institutions in originating loans and attracting deposits may adversely affect our profitability.

 

We face substantial competition in originating loans. This competition comes principally from other banks, savings institutions, mortgage banking companies and other lenders. Many of our competitors enjoy advantages, including greater financial resources and higher lending limits, a wider geographic presence, and more accessible branch office locations.

 

In attracting deposits, we face substantial competition from other insured depository institutions such as banks, savings institutions and credit unions, as well as institutions offering uninsured investment alternatives, including money market funds. Many of our competitors enjoy advantages, including greater financial resources, more aggressive marketing campaigns, better brand recognition and more branch locations. These competitors may offer higher interest rates than we do, which could decrease the deposits that we attract or require us to increase our rates to retain existing deposits or attract new deposits. Increased deposit competition could adversely affect our ability to generate the funds necessary for lending operations and increase our cost of funds.

 

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We also compete with non-bank providers of financial services, such as brokerage firms, consumer finance companies, insurance companies and governmental organizations, which may offer more favorable terms. Some of our non-bank competitors are not subject to the same extensive regulations that govern our operations. As a result, such non-bank competitors may have advantages over us in providing certain products and services. This competition may reduce or limit our margins on banking services, reduce our market share and adversely affect our earnings and financial condition.

 

Limits on our ability to use brokered deposits as part of our funding strategy may adversely affect our ability to grow.

 

A “brokered deposit” is any deposit that is obtained from or through the mediation or assistance of a deposit broker, which includes larger correspondent banks and securities brokerage firms. These deposit brokers attract deposits from individuals and companies throughout the country and internationally whose deposit decisions are based almost exclusively on obtaining the highest interest rates. At December 31, 2016, brokered deposits represented approximately 19.5% of our total deposits and equaled $666.7 million, comprised of the following: interest-bearing demand-brokered of $180.0 million, brokered certificates of deposits of $93.7 million and reciprocal deposits of $393.0 million. There are risks associated with using brokered deposits. In order to continue to maintain our level of brokered deposits, we may be forced to pay higher interest rates than contemplated by our asset-liability pricing strategy. In addition, banks that become less than “well capitalized” under applicable regulatory capital requirements may be restricted in their ability to accept or prohibited from accepting brokered deposits. If this funding source becomes more difficult to access, we will have to seek alternative funding sources in order to continue to fund our growth. This may include increasing our reliance on Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings, attempting to attract non-brokered deposits, reducing our available for sale securities portfolio and selling loans. There can be no assurance that brokered deposits will be available, or if available, sufficient to support our continued growth.

 

Our commercial real estate loan portfolio exposes us to risks that may be greater than the risks related to our other mortgage loans.

 

Our loan portfolio includes non-owner-occupied commercial real estate loans for individuals and businesses for various purposes, which are secured by commercial properties, as well as real estate construction and development loans. These loans typically involve repayment dependent upon income generated, or expected to be generated, by the property securing the loan in amounts sufficient to cover operating expenses and debt service. This may be adversely affected by changes in the economy or local market conditions. These loans expose a lender to greater credit risk than loans secured by residential real estate because the collateral securing these loans typically cannot be liquidated as easily as residential real estate. If we foreclose on these loans, our holding period for the collateral typically is longer than for a single or multifamily residential property because there are fewer potential purchasers of the collateral. Additionally, non-owner-occupied commercial real estate loans generally involve relatively large balances to single borrowers or related groups of borrowers. Accordingly, charge-offs on non-owner-occupied commercial real estate loans may be larger on a per loan basis than those incurred with our residential or consumer loan portfolios. Unexpected deterioration in the credit quality of our commercial real estate loan portfolio would require us to increase our provision for loan losses, which would reduce our profitability and could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

We are subject to environmental liability risk associated with our lending activities.

 

In the course of our business, we may purchase real estate, or we may foreclose on and take title to real estate. As a result, we could be subject to environmental liabilities with respect to these properties. We may be held liable to a governmental entity or to third parties for property damage, personal injury, investigation and clean-up costs incurred by these parties in connection with environmental contamination or may be required to investigate or clean up hazardous or toxic substances or chemical releases at a property. The costs associated with investigation or remediation activities could be substantial. In addition, if we are the owner or former owner of a contaminated site, we may be subject to common law claims by third parties based on damages and costs resulting from environmental contamination emanating from the property. Any significant environmental liabilities could cause a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

Lack of seasoning of our loan portfolio could increase risk of credit defaults in the future.

 

A large portion of loans in our loan portfolio and of our lending relationships are of relatively recent origin. In general, loans do not begin to show signs of credit deterioration or default until they have been outstanding for some period of time, a process referred to as “seasoning.” As a result, a portfolio of older loans will usually behave more predictably than a

15 

newer portfolio. Because a large portion of our portfolio is relatively new, the current level of delinquencies and defaults may not represent the level that may prevail as the portfolio becomes more seasoned. If delinquencies and defaults increase, we may be required to increase our provision for loan losses, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

Deterioration in the fiscal position of the U.S. federal government could adversely affect us and our banking operations.

 

The fiscal position of the U.S. federal government may become uncertain. In addition to causing economic and financial market disruptions, any deterioration in the fiscal outlook of the U.S. federal government, could, among other things, materially adversely affect the market value of the U.S. and other government and governmental agency securities that we hold, the availability of those securities as collateral for borrowing, and our ability to access capital markets on favorable terms. In particular, it could increase interest rates and disrupt payment systems, money markets, and long-term or short-term fixed income markets, adversely affecting the cost and availability of funding, which could negatively affect our profitability. Any of these developments could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

Government regulation significantly affects our business.

 

The banking industry is extensively regulated. Banking regulations are intended primarily to protect depositors, and the FDIC deposit insurance fund, not the shareholders of the Company. We are subject to regulation and supervision by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance and the Federal Reserve Bank. Regulatory requirements affect our lending practices, capital structure, investment practices, dividend policy and growth. The bank regulatory agencies possess broad authority to prevent or remedy unsafe or unsound practices or violations of law. We are subject to various regulatory capital requirements, which involve both quantitative measures of our assets and liabilities and qualitative judgments by regulators regarding risks and other factors. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements or comply with other regulations could result in actions by regulators that could adversely affect our ability to pay dividends or otherwise adversely impact operations. In addition, changes in laws, regulations and regulatory practices affecting the banking industry may limit the manner in which we conduct our business. Such changes may adversely affect us, including our ability to offer new products and services, obtain financing, attract deposits, make loans and achieve satisfactory spreads and may impose additional costs on us.

 

The Bank is also subject to a number of Federal laws, which, among other things, require it to lend to various sectors of the economy and population, and establish and maintain comprehensive programs relating to anti-money laundering and customer identification. The Bank's compliance with these laws will be considered by the Federal banking regulators when reviewing bank merger and bank holding company acquisitions or commencing new activities or making new investments in reliance on the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. As a public company, we are also subject to the corporate governance standards set forth in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as well as any rules or regulations promulgated by the SEC or the NASDAQ Stock Market.

 

The long-term impact of the Basel III capital rules is uncertain.

 

In July 2013, the FRB published final rules establishing a new comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banking organizations, referred to herein as the “Basel Rules”. For a detailed description of the Basel Rules, please refer to Part I, Item 1, Business – “Governmental Policies and Legislation – Capital Requirements” of this Annual Report. The Basel Rules implement the Basel Committee’s December 2010 framework, commonly referred to as Basel III, for strengthening international capital standards as well as certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. Basel III creates a new regulatory capital standard based on Tier 1 common equity and increases the minimum leverage and risk-based capital ratios applicable to all banking organizations. Basel III also changes how a number of the regulatory capital components are calculated. A significant increase in our capital requirement could reduce our growth and profitability and materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

In January 2016 we announced the amendment to our FR Y-9C and the Bank’s amendment of its call report FFIEC 041 to correct three of the Company’s and the Bank’s regulatory capital ratios. The reason for the amendment is to correct an error in the Company’s and the Bank’s calculation of risk-weighting of certain of the Bank’s multifamily loans. It was determined by Management that the Bank was not compliant with the clarified regulatory guidance relating to the risk-weighting of multifamily loans for call report purposes. As a result, certain of the Bank’s loans were risk-weighted at a 50% level when they should have been risk-weighted at the 100% level. While we believe that there are no other such

16 

errors, we can provide no assurances that we will not experience similar difficulties in the interpretation of new regulation of capital rules to requirements and interpretations.

 

Inability to fulfill minimum capital requirements could limit our ability to conduct or expand our business, pay a dividend, or result in termination of our FDIC deposit insurance, and thus impact our financial condition, our results of operations, and the market value of our stock.

 

We are subject to the comprehensive, consolidated supervision and regulation set forth by the FRB. Such regulation includes, among other matters, the level of leverage and risk-based capital ratios we are required to maintain. Depending on general economic conditions, changes in our capital position could have a materially adverse impact on our financial condition and risk profile, and also could limit our ability to grow through acquisitions or otherwise. Compliance with regulatory capital requirements may limit our ability to engage in operations that require the intensive use of capital and therefore could adversely affect our ability to maintain our current level of business or expand.

 

Furthermore, it is possible that future regulatory changes could result in more stringent capital or liquidity requirements, including increases in the levels of regulatory capital we are required to maintain and changes in the way capital or liquidity is measured for regulatory purposes, either of which could adversely affect our business and our ability to expand. For example, federal banking regulations adopted under Basel III standards require bank holding companies and banks to undertake significant activities to demonstrate compliance with higher capital requirements. Any additional requirements to increase our capital ratios or liquidity could necessitate our liquidating certain assets, perhaps on terms that are unfavorable to us or that are contrary to our business plans. In addition, such requirements could also compel us to issue additional securities, thus diluting the value of our common stock.

 

In addition, failure to meet established capital requirements could result in the FRB placing limitations or conditions on our activities and further restricting the commencement of new activities. The failure to meet applicable capital guidelines could subject us to a variety of enforcement remedies available to the federal regulatory authorities, including limiting our ability to pay dividends; issuing a directive to increase our capital; and terminating our FDIC deposit insurance.   See “Capital Requirements” under Item 1, “Business” for a further discussion of the various capital requirements to which we are, and in the future may be, subject.

 

We are subject to liquidity risk.

 

Liquidity risk is the potential that we will be unable to meet our obligations as they become due, capitalize on growth opportunities as they arise, or pay regular dividends because of an inability to liquidate assets or obtain adequate funding in a timely basis, at a reasonable cost and within acceptable risk tolerances.

 

Liquidity is required to fund various obligations, including credit commitments to borrowers, mortgage and other loan originations, withdrawals by depositors, repayment of borrowings, dividends to shareholders, operating expenses and capital expenditures.

 

Liquidity is derived primarily from retail deposit growth and retention; principal and interest payments on loans; principal and interest payments; sale, maturity and prepayment of investment securities; net cash provided from operations and access to other funding sources.

 

Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance our activities could be impaired by factors that affect us specifically or the financial services industry in general. Factors that could detrimentally impact our access to liquidity sources include a decrease in the level of our business activity due to a market downturn or adverse regulatory action against us. Our ability to borrow could also be impaired by factors that are not specific to us, such as a severe disruption of the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry as a whole as banking organizations face turmoil and domestic and worldwide credit markets deteriorate. Our ability to borrow from alternative sources, such as brokered deposits could also be impaired should the Bank’s regulatory capital falls below well capitalized.

 

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Cyber-attacks and information security breaches could compromise our information or result in the data of our customers being improperly divulged, which could expose us to liability and losses.

 

Many financial institutions and companies engaged in data processing have reported significant breaches in the security of their websites or other systems, some of which have involved sophisticated and targeted attacks intended to obtain unauthorized access to confidential information, destroy data, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems, often through the introduction of computer viruses or malware, cyber-attacks and other means. Although we have not experienced, to date, any material losses relating to such cyber-attacks or other information security breaches, there can be no assurance that we will not suffer such losses in the future. Additionally, our risk exposure to security matters may remain elevated or increase in the future due to, among other things, the increasing size and prominence of the Company in the financial services industry, our expansion of Internet and mobile banking tools and products based on customer needs, and the system and customer account conversions associated with the integration of merger targets.

 

 

The price of our common stock may fluctuate.

 

The price of our common stock on the NASDAQ Global Select Market constantly changes and has fluctuated widely. We expect that the market price of our common stock will continue to fluctuate. Holders of our common stock will be subject to the risk of volatility and changes in prices.

 

Our common stock price can fluctuate as a result of a variety of factors, many of which are beyond our control. These factors include:

 

  quarterly fluctuations in our operating and financial results;
  operating results that vary from the expectations of Management, securities analysts and investors;
  changes in expectations as to our future financial performance, including financial estimates by securities analysts and investors;
  events negatively impacting the financial services industry which result in a general decline in the market valuation of our common stock;
  announcements of material developments affecting our operations or our dividend policy;
  future sales of our equity securities;
  new laws or regulations or new interpretations of existing laws or regulations applicable to our business;
  changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations or principles; and
  general domestic economic and market conditions.

 

In addition, recently the stock market generally has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations, and industry factors and general economic and political conditions and events, such as economic slowdowns or recessions, interest rate changes or credit loss trends, could also cause our stock price to decrease regardless of our operating results.

 

Our ability to pay dividends to our common shareholders is limited.

 

Since the principal source of income for the Company is dividends paid to the Company by the Bank, the Company’s ability to pay dividends to its shareholders will depend on whether the Bank pays dividends to it. As a practical matter, restrictions on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends act as restrictions on the amount of funds available for the payment of dividends by the Company. As a New Jersey-chartered commercial bank, the Bank is subject to the restrictions on the payment of dividends contained in the New Jersey Banking Act of 1948, as amended. Under the Banking Act, the Bank may pay dividends only out of retained earnings, and out of surplus to the extent that surplus exceeds 50% of stated capital. The Company is also subject to FRB policies, which may, in certain circumstances, limit its ability to pay dividends. The FRB policies require, among other things, that a bank holding company maintain a minimum capital base and the FRB in supervisory guidance has cautioned bank holding companies about paying out too much of their earnings in dividends and has stated that banks should not pay out more in dividends than they earn. The FRB would most likely seek to prohibit any dividend payment that would reduce a holding company's capital below these minimum amounts.

 

We may lose lower-cost funding sources.

 

Checking, savings, and money market deposit account balances and other forms of client deposits can decrease when clients perceive alternative investments, such as the stock market, as providing a better risk/return tradeoff. If clients move

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money out of bank deposits and into other investments, we could lose a relatively low cost source of funds, increasing our funding costs and reducing our net interest income and net income.

 

There may be changes in accounting policies or accounting standards.

 

Our accounting policies are fundamental to understanding our financial results and condition. Some of these policies require use of estimates and assumptions that may affect the value of our assets or liabilities and financial results. We identified our accounting policies regarding the allowance for loan losses, goodwill and other intangible assets, and income taxes to be critical because they require Management to make difficult, subjective and complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain. Under each of these policies, it is possible that materially different amounts would be reported under different conditions, using different assumptions, or as new information becomes available.

 

From time to time the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) and the SEC change the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the form and content of our external financial statements. In addition, accounting standard setters and those who interpret the accounting standards (such as the FASB, SEC, banking regulators and our independent auditors) may change or even reverse their previous interpretations or positions on how these standards should be applied. Changes in financial accounting and reporting standards and changes in current interpretations may be beyond our control, can be hard to predict and could materially impact how we report our financial results and condition. In certain cases, we could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively or apply an existing standard differently (also retroactively) which may result in our restating prior period financial statements in material amounts.

 

The FASB has recently issued an accounting standard update that will result in a significant change in how the Company recognizes credit losses and may have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.

 

In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued an accounting standard update, “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326), Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which replaces the current “incurred loss” model for recognizing credit losses with an “expected loss” model referred to as the Current Expected Credit Loss ("CECL") model. Under the CECL model, the Company will be required to present certain financial assets carried at amortized cost, such as loans held for investment and held-to-maturity debt securities, at the net amount expected to be collected. The measurement of expected credit losses is to be based on information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. This measurement will take place at the time the financial asset is first added to the balance sheet and periodically thereafter. This differs significantly from the “incurred loss” model required under current generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"), which delays recognition until it is probable a loss has been incurred. Accordingly, we expect that the adoption of the CECL model will materially affect how the Company determines the allowance for loan losses and could require the Company to significantly increase our allowance. Moreover, the CECL model may create more volatility in the level of our allowance for loan losses. If we are required to materially increase the level of allowance for loan losses for any reason, such increase could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

We encounter continuous technological change.

 

The financial services industry is continually undergoing rapid technological change with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. The effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to better serve clients and to reduce costs. Our future success depends, in part, upon our ability to address the needs of our clients by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy client demands, as well as to create additional efficiencies in our operations. Many of our competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. We may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing these products and services to our clients. Failure to successfully keep pace with technological change affecting the financial services industry could have a material adverse impact on our business and, in turn, our financial condition and results of operations. 

 

19 

 

We are subject to operational risk.

 

We face the risk that the design of our controls and procedures, including those to mitigate the risk of fraud by employees or outsiders, may prove to be inadequate or are circumvented, thereby causing delays in detection of errors or inaccuracies in data and information. Management regularly reviews and updates our internal controls, disclosure controls and procedures, and corporate governance policies and procedures. Any system of controls, however well designed and operated, is based in part on certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are met. Any failure or circumvention of our controls and procedures or failure to comply with regulations related to controls and procedures could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

We may also be subject to disruptions of our systems arising from events that are wholly or partially beyond our control (including, for example, computer viruses or electrical or telecommunications outages), which may give rise to losses in service to clients and to financial loss or liability. We are further exposed to the risk that our external vendors may be unable to fulfill their contractual obligations (or will be subject to the same risk of fraud or operational errors by their respective employees as we are) and to the risk that our (or our vendors’) business continuity and data security systems prove to be inadequate.

 

Our performance is largely dependent on the talents and efforts of highly skilled individuals. There is intense competition in the financial services industry for qualified employees. In addition, we face increasing competition with businesses outside the financial services industry for the most highly skilled individuals. Our business operations could be adversely affected if we were unable to attract new employees and retain and motivate our existing employees.

 

There may be claims and litigation pertaining to fiduciary responsibility.

 

From time to time as part of the Company’s normal course of business, clients make claims and take legal action against the Company based on its actions or inactions. If such claims and legal actions are not resolved in a manner favorable to the Company, they may result in financial liability and/or adversely affect the market perception of the Company and its products and services. This may also impact client demand for the Company’s products and services. Any financial liability or reputation damage could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and results of operations.

 

 

Item 1B.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

 

None.

 

 

Item 2.PROPERTIES

 

The Company owns 9 branches and leases 11 branches. The Company leases an administrative and operations office building in Bedminster, New Jersey, private banking offices in Princeton, Morristown and Teaneck, New Jersey and a trust office in Greenville, Delaware.

 

Item 3.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

In the normal course of its business, lawsuits and claims may be brought against the Company and its subsidiaries. There is no currently pending or threatened litigation or proceedings against the Company or its subsidiaries, which assert claims that if adversely decided, we believe would have a material adverse effect on the Company.

 

Item 4.MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

 

Not applicable.

 

20 

 

PART II

 

Item 5.MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

The Common Stock of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol PGC. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the reported high and low sale prices on known trades and cash dividends declared per share by the Company.

 

           Dividend 
2016  High   Low   Per Share 
1st QUARTER  $21.60   $16.17   $0.05 
2nd QUARTER   20.09    16.60    0.05 
3rd QUARTER   22.53    18.53    0.05 
4th QUARTER   31.98    20.83    0.05 

 

           Dividend 
2015  High   Low   Per Share 
1st QUARTER  $21.84   $17.50   $0.05 
2nd QUARTER   22.89    19.96    0.05 
3rd QUARTER   22.97    19.93    0.05 
4th QUARTER   23.82    19.05    0.05 

 

Future dividends payable by the Company will be determined by the Board of Directors after consideration of earnings and financial condition of the Company, need for capital and such other matters as the Board of Directors deems appropriate. The payment of dividends is subject to certain restrictions, see Part I, Item 1, “Business - Restrictions on the Payment of Dividends.”

 

21 

 

Performance

 

The following graph compares the cumulative total return on a hypothetical $100 investment made on December 31, 2011 in (a) the Company’s common stock; (b) the Russell 3000 Stock Index, and (c) the Keefe, Bruyette & Woods KBW 50 Index (top 50 U.S. banks). The graph is calculated assuming that all dividends are reinvested during the relevant periods. The graph shows how a $100 investment would increase or decrease in value over time, based on dividends (stock or cash) and increases or decreases in the market price of the stock.

 

Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation

 

       Period Ending     
Index  12/31/11   12/31/12   12/31/13   12/31/14   12/31/15   12/31/16 
Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation   100.00    132.83    182.40    179.11    200.87    303.85 
Russell 3000   100.00    116.42    155.47    175.00    175.84    198.23 
KBW NASDAQ Bank   100.00    132.91    183.08    200.24    201.22    258.59 

 

On December 31, 2016, the last reported sale price of the Common Stock was $30.88. Also, on March 7, 2017, there were approximately 905 registered shareholders of record.

 

22 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

 

Sales of Unregistered Securities

 

None.

 

Equity Compensation Plan Information

 

The information set forth in Item 12 of Part III of this Annual Report is incorporated by reference herein.

 

Item 6.SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

The following is selected consolidated financial data for the Company and its subsidiaries for the years indicated. This information is derived from the historical consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes.

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(In thousands, except per share data)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
Summary earnings:                         
  Interest income  $117,048   $99,142   $75,575   $57,053   $56,090 
  Interest expense   20,613    14,690    7,681    4,277    4,687 
    Net interest income   96,435    84,452    67,894    52,776    51,403 
  Provision for loan losses   7,500    7,100    4,875    3,425    8,275 
    Net interest income after provision                         
     for loan losses   88,935    77,352    63,019    49,351    43,128 
  Wealth management income   18,240    17,039    15,242    13,838    12,282 
  Other income, exclusive of securities gains, net   10,559    6,148    5,305    5,917    5,211 
Securities gains, net   119    527    260    840    3,810 
Total expenses   75,112    68,926    59,540    55,183    48,330 
    Income before income tax expense   42,741    32,140    24,286    14,763    16,101 
  Income tax expense   16,264    12,168    9,396    5,502    6,405 
Net income   26,477    19,972    14,890    9,261    9,696 
Dividends on preferred stock and accretion                   474 
Net income available to common shareholders  $26,477   $19,972   $14,890   $9,261   $9,222 
                          
Per share data:                         
  Earnings per share-basic  $1.62   $1.31   $1.23   $1.02   $1.05 
  Earnings per share-diluted   1.60    1.29    1.22    1.01    1.05 
  Cash dividends declared   0.20    0.20    0.20    0.20    0.20 
  Book value end-of-period   19.10    17.61    16.36    14.79    13.90 
                          
  Basic weighted average shares outstanding   16,318,868    15,187,637    12,065,615    9,094,111    8,780,973 
  Common stock equivalents (dilutive)   196,130    247,359    106,492    82,688    47,501 
  Fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding   16,514,998    15,434,996    12,172,107    9,176,799    8,828,474 
                          
Balance sheet data (at period end):                         
  Total assets  $3,878,633   $3,364,659   $2,702,397   $1,966,948   $1,667,836 
  Securities available to sale   305,388    195,630    332,652    268,447    304,479 
  FHLB and FRB stock, at cost   13,813    13,984    11,593    10,032    4,639 
  Total loans   3,312,144    2,913,242    2,250,267    1,574,201    1,132,584 
  Allowance for loan losses   32,208    25,856    19,480    15,373    12,735 
  Total deposits   3,411,837    2,935,470    2,298,693    1,647,250    1,516,427 
  Total shareholders’ equity   324,210    275,676    242,267    170,657    122,057 
  Cash dividends:                         
    Common   3,296    3,100    2,414    1,802    1,774 
    Preferred                   112 
  Assets under administration at Wealth                         
    Management Division (market value)   3.7 billion    3.3 billion    3.0 billion    2.7 billion    2.3 billion 

 

23 

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
   2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
Selected performance ratios:                         
  Return on average total assets   0.72%   0.64%   0.63%   0.54%   0.61%
  Return on average common shareholders’ equity   8.92    7.71    7.96    7.37    8.03 
  Dividend payout ratio   12.45    15.52    16.21    19.46    19.24 
  Average equity to average assets ratio   8.12    8.30    7.94    7.26    7.25 
                          
  Net interest margin   2.74    2.80    3.01    3.26    3.50 
  Non-interest expenses to average assets   2.06    2.21    2.53    3.19    3.04 
  Non-interest income to average assets   0.79    0.76    0.88    1.19    1.34 

 

Asset quality ratios (at period end):

                         
  Nonperforming loans to total loans   0.34%   0.23%   0.30%   0.42%   1.04%
  Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.30    0.22    0.30    0.44    0.91 
  Allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans   285.94    383.22    284.38    231.87    108.55 
  Allowance for loan losses to total loans   0.97    0.89    0.87    0.98    1.12 
  Net charge-offs to average loans                         
       Plus other real estate owned   0.04    0.03    0.04    0.06    0.80 
Liquidity and capital ratios:                         
  Average loans to average deposits   100.97%   98.30%   92.55%   83.05%   76.39%
  Total shareholders’ equity to total assets   8.36    8.19    8.96    8.68    7.32 
                          
Company:                         
  Total capital to risk-weighted assets   13.25    11.40    15.55    15.33    13.08 
  Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets   10.60    10.42    14.38    14.07    11.83 
  Common equity tier 1 capital ratio to risk-                         
  weighted assets   10.60    10.42    N/A    N/A    N/A 
  Tier 1 leverage ratio   8.35    8.10    9.11    9.00    7.27 

 

 

Item 7.MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

OVERVIEW: The following discussion and analysis is intended to provide information about the financial condition and results of operations of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the related notes and supplemental financial information appearing elsewhere in this report.

 

Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation (the “Company”), formed in 1997, is the parent holding company for Peapack-Gladstone Bank (the “Bank”), formed in 1921, a commercial bank providing innovative private banking services to businesses, non-profits and consumers which help them to establish, maintain and expand their legacy. Through its private banking locations in Bedminster, Morristown, Princeton and Teaneck, its wealth management division, and its branch network in Somerset, Hunterdon, Morris and Union counties, the Bank offers a strong commitment to client service.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company recorded net income of $26.48 million, and diluted earnings per share of $1.60 compared to $19.97 million and $1.29, respectively, for the same twelve month period last year, reflecting increases of $6.51 million, or 33 percent, and $0.31 per share, or 24 percent, respectively. During the fourth quarter of 2015 the Company recorded $2.5 million of charges related to the closure of two branch offices. These charges reduced 2015 pretax income by $2.5 million, net income by $1.6 million and earnings per share by approximately $0.10 per share. During 2016, the Company continued to focus on executing its Strategic Plan – known as “Expanding Our Reach” – which focuses on the client experience and organic growth across all lines of business. The Strategic Plan called for expansion of existing lines of business, and expansion of the Company’s commercial and industrial (“C&I”) lending platform, through the use of private bankers, who lead with deposit gathering and wealth management discussions.

 

24 

 

In addition to continuing to execute the Strategic Plan, the following are additional highlights for 2016:

 

·Fee income from the Private Wealth Management Division totaled $18.2 million for the year ended 2016, growing from $17.0 million for the year ended 2015.
·Total end of year loan balances for the Company were $3.31 billion. This level reflected an increase of $399 million, or 14 percent, from the balance at December 31, 2015.
·Total “customer” deposits (defined as deposits excluding brokered CDs and brokered “overnight” interest-bearing demand deposits) at the end of 2016 were $3.14 billion, reflecting an increase of $496 million, or 19 percent, from the balance at December 31, 2015.
·At December 31, 2016, the market value of assets under administration at the Private Wealth Management Division of the Bank was $3.7 billion, reflecting an increase of 11 percent from the balance at December 31, 2015.
·Asset quality metrics continued to be strong at December 31, 2016. Nonperforming assets at December 31, 2016 were just $11.8 million, or 0.30 percent of total assets. Total loans past due 30 through 89 days and still accruing were $1.4 million or 0.04 percent of total loans at December 31, 2016.
·The book value per share at December 31, 2016 of $19.10 reflected improvement when compared to $17.61 at December 31, 2015.

 

The Company’s common stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “PGC.”

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES: Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is based upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The preparation of these financial statements requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Note 1 to the Company’s Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2016, contains a summary of the Company’s significant accounting policies.

 

Management believes that the Company’s policy with respect to the methodology for the determination of the allowance for loan losses involves a higher degree of complexity and requires Management to make difficult and subjective judgments, which often require assumptions or estimates about highly uncertain matters. Changes in these judgments, assumption or estimates could materially impact results of operations. This critical policy and its application are periodically reviewed with the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors.

 

The provision for loan losses is based upon Management’s evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance, including an assessment of known and inherent risks in the portfolio, giving consideration to the size and composition of the loan portfolio, actual loan loss experience, level of delinquencies, detailed analysis of individual loans for which full collectability may not be assured, the existence and estimated fair value of any underlying collateral and guarantees securing the loans, and current economic and market conditions. Although Management uses the best information available, the level of the allowance for loan losses remains an estimate, which is subject to significant judgment and short-term change. Various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Company’s allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require the Company to make additional provisions for loan losses based upon information available to them at the time of their examination. Furthermore, the majority of the Company’s loans are secured by real estate in the State of New Jersey and the New York City area. Accordingly, the collectability of a substantial portion of the carrying value of the Company’s loan portfolio is susceptible to changes in local market conditions and may experience continuing adverse economic conditions. Future adjustments to the provision for loan losses and allowance for loan losses may be necessary due to economic, operating, regulatory and other conditions beyond the Company’s control.

 

The Company accounts for its securities in accordance with “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities,” which was codified into Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 320. Debt securities are classified as held to maturity and carried at amortized cost when Management has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Debt securities are classified as available for sale when they might be sold before maturity due to changes in interest rates, prepayment risk, liquidity or other factors. Securities available for sale are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income, net of tax. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, all securities were classified as available for sale.

 

Securities are evaluated on at least a quarterly basis to determine whether a decline in value is other-than-temporary. To determine whether a decline in value is other-than-temporary, Management considers the reasons underlying the decline,

25 

the near-term prospects of the issuer, the extent and duration of the decline and whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. “Other-than-temporary” is not intended to indicate that the decline is permanent, but indicates that the prospects for a near-term recovery of value is not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support a realizable value equal to or greater than the carrying value of the investment. Once a decline in value is determined to be other-than-temporary, the amount of the impairment is split into two components – other-than-temporary impairment related to credit loss, which must be recognized through earnings. No impairment charges were recognized in 2016, 2015 or 2014. For equity securities, the entire amount of impairment is recognized through earnings.

 

EARNINGS SUMMARY:

 

The following table presents certain key aspects of our performance for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

   Years Ended December 31,   Change 
(Dollars in thousands, except per
share data)
  2016   2015   2014   2016 v
2015
   2015 v
2014
 
Results of Operations:                    
Interest income  $117,048   $99,142   $75,575   $17,906   $23,567 
Interest expense   20,613    14,690    7,681    5,923    7,009 
   Net interest income   96,435    84,452    67,894    11,983    16,558 
Provision for loan losses   7,500    7,100    4,875    400    2,225 
Net interest income after provision                         
   for loan losses   88,935    77,352    63,019    11,583    14,333 
Wealth management fee income   18,240    17,039    15,242    1,201    1,797 
Other income   10,678    6,675    5,565    4,003    1,110 
Total operating expense   75,112    68,926    59,540    6,186    9,386 
Income before income tax expense   42,741    32,140    24,286    10,601    7,854 
Income tax expense   16,264    12,168    9,396    4,096    2,772 
Net income  $26,477   $19,972   $14,890   $6,505   $5,082 
                          
Per Share Data:                         
Basic earnings per common share  $1.62   $1.31   $1.23   $0.31   $0.08 
Diluted earnings per common share   1.60    1.29    1.22    0.31    0.07 
                          
Average common shares outstanding   16,318,868    15,187,637    12,065,615    1,131,231    3,122,022 
Diluted average common shares                         
   outstanding   16,514,998    15,434,996    12,172,107    1,080,002    3,262,889 
                          
Average equity to                         
   average assets   8.12%   8.30%   7.94%   (0.18)%   0.36%
Return on average assets   0.72    0.64    0.63    0.08    0.01 
Return on average equity   8.92    7.71    7.96    1.21    (0.25)
                          
Selected Balance Sheet Ratios:                         
Total capital to risk-weighted assets   13.25%   11.40%   15.55%   1.85%   (4.15)%
Leverage ratio   8.35    8.10    9.11    0.25    (1.01)
Average loans to average deposits   100.97    98.30    92.55    1.90    5.75 
Allowance for loan losses to total                         
   loans   0.97    0.89    0.87    0.08    0.02 
Allowance for loan losses to                         
   nonperforming loans   285.94    383.22    284.38    (97.28)   98.84 
Nonperforming loans to total loans   0.34    0.23    0.30    0.11    (0.07)
Noninterest bearing deposits to                         
   total deposits   14.35    14.30    15.94    0.05    (1.64)
Time deposits to total deposits   16.14    17.99    14.38    (1.85)   3.61 

 

26 

2016 compared to 2015

 

The Company recorded net income of $26.48 million and diluted earnings per share of $1.60 for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to net income of $19.97 million and diluted earnings per share of $1.29 for the year ended December 31, 2015. These results produced a return on average assets of 0.72 percent and 0.64 percent in 2016 and 2015, respectively, and a return on average shareholders’ equity of 8.92 percent and 7.71 percent in 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

The increase in net income for the 2016 year was due to higher net interest income and other income, offset by an increased provision for loan losses and other operating expenses when compared to 2015. Higher operating expenses were principally due to costs associated with the Strategic Plan, described in the “Overview” section above.

 

2015 compared to 2014

 

The Company recorded net income of $19.97 million and diluted earnings per share of $1.29 for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to net income of $14.89 million and diluted earnings per share of $1.22 for the year ended December 31, 2014. These results produced a return on average assets of 0.64 percent and 0.63 percent in 2015 and 2014, respectively, and a return on average shareholders’ equity of 7.71 percent and 7.96 percent in 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

The increase in net income for the 2015 year was due to higher net interest income and other income, offset by an increased provision for loan losses and other operating expenses when compared to 2014. Higher operating expenses were principally due to costs associated with the Strategic Plan and a branch restructuring charge, described in the “Overview” section above.

 

NET INTEREST INCOME AND NET INTEREST MARGIN

 

The primary source of the Company’s operating income is net interest income, which is the difference between interest and dividends earned on earning assets and fees earned on loans, and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Earning assets include loans to individuals and businesses, investment securities, interest-earning deposits and federal funds sold. Interest-bearing liabilities include interest-bearing checking, money market, savings and time deposits, Federal Home Loan Bank advances and other borrowings. Net interest income is determined by the difference between the yields earned on earning assets and the rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities (“Net Interest Spread”) and the relative amounts of earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. The Company’s net interest spread is affected by regulatory, economic and competitive factors that influence interest rates, loan demand and deposit flows and general levels of nonperforming assets.

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s net interest income and related spread and margin for the periods indicated:

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(Dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Net interest income  $96,435   $84,452   $67,894 
Interest rate spread   2.60%   2.69%   2.92%
Net interest margin   2.74    2.80    3.01 

 

27 

The following table compares the average balance sheets, net interest spreads and net interest margins for the years ended

December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 (on a fully tax-equivalent basis-“FTE”):

 

Year Ended December 31, 2016
   Average   Income/Expense   Yield 
(In thousands except yield information)  Balance   (FTE )   (FTE) 
Assets:            
Interest-earnings assets:               
  Investments:               
     Taxable (1)  $208,980   $4,018    1.92%
     Tax-exempt (1)(2)   27,225    840    3.09 
  Loans (2)(3):               
      Mortgages   483,088    15,790    3.27 
      Commercial mortgages   2,022,936    70,775    3.50 
      Commercial   564,598    22,206    3.93 
      Commercial construction   991    41    4.14 
      Installment   61,362    1,737    2.83 
      Home Equity   59,555    1,964    3.30 
      Other   474    47    9.92 
      Total loans   3,193,004    112,560    3.53 
  Federal funds sold   101        0.24 
  Interest-earning deposits   128,488    551    0.43 
     Total interest-earning assets   3,557,798   $117,969    3.32 
Noninterest-earning assets:               
  Cash and due from banks   9,580           
  Allowance for loan losses   (29,068)          
  Premises and equipment   29,839           
  Other assets   86,228           
     Total noninterest-earning assets   96,579           
     Total assets  $3,654,377           
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:               
Interest-bearing deposits:               
  Checking  $926,713   $2,547    0.27%
  Money markets   894,215    2,775    0.31 
  Savings   119,043    68    0.06 
  Certificates of deposit - retail   455,946    6,270    1.38 
     Subtotal interest-bearing deposits   2,395,917    11,660    0.49 
  Interest-bearing demand - brokered   199,208    3,020    1.52 
  Certificates of deposit - brokered   93,674    1,995    2.13 
  Total interest-bearing deposits   2,688,799    16,675    0.62 
  Borrowed funds   132,985    1,764    1.33 
  Capital lease obligation   9,940    478    4.81 
  Subordinated debt   26,679    1,696    6.36 
     Total interest-bearing liabilities   2,858,403    20,613    0.72 
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:               
  Demand deposits   473,536           
  Accrued expenses and other liabilities   25,528           
     Total noninterest-bearing liabilities   499,064           
Shareholders’ equity   296,908           
     Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity  $3,654,375           
        Net interest income       $97,356      
        Net interest spread             2.60%
        Net interest margin (4)             2.74%
1.Average balances for available for sale securities are based on amortized cost.
2.Interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a 35 percent federal tax rate.
3.Loans are stated net of unearned income and include nonaccrual loans.
4.Net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis as a percentage of total average interest-earning assets.

28 

Year Ended December 31, 2015

   Average   Income/Expense   Yield 
(In thousands except yield information)  Balance   (FTE )   (FTE) 
Assets:               
Interest-earnings assets:               
  Investments:               
     Taxable (1)  $231,152   $4,079    1.76%
     Tax-exempt (1)(2)   31,158    858    2.75 
  Loans (2)(3):               
      Mortgages   466,873    15,244    3.27 
      Commercial mortgages   1,718,171    61,286    3.57 
      Commercial   404,908    15,101    3.73 
      Commercial construction   3,679    156    4.24 
      Installment   32,774    1,096    3.34 
      Home Equity   51,227    1,657    3.23 
      Other   518    48    9.27 
      Total loans   2,678,150    94,588    3.53 
  Federal funds sold   101        0.10 
  Interest-earning deposits   95,287    204    0.21 
     Total interest-earning assets   3,035,848   $99,729    3.29 
Noninterest-earning assets:               
  Cash and due from banks   7,445           
  Allowance for loan losses   (22,550)          
  Premises and equipment   31,771           
  Other assets   67,915           
     Total noninterest-earning assets   84,581           
     Total assets  $3,120,429           
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:               
Interest-bearing deposits:               
  Checking  $741,199   $1,495    0.20%
  Money markets   746,329    2,047    0.27 
  Savings   116,289    64    0.06 
  Certificates of deposit - retail   354,626    4,411    1.24 
     Subtotal interest-bearing deposits   1,958,443    8,017    0.41 
  Interest-bearing demand - brokered   268,414    2,534    0.94 
  Certificates of deposit - brokered   102,937    2,034    1.98 
  Total interest-bearing deposits   2,329,794    12,585    0.54 
  Borrowed funds   113,027    1,602    1.42 
  Capital lease obligation   10,452    503    4.81 
     Total interest-bearing liabilities   2,453,273    14,690    0.60 
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:               
  Demand deposits   394,567           
  Accrued expenses and other liabilities   13,530           
     Total noninterest-bearing liabilities   408,097           
Shareholders’ equity   259,059           
     Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity  $3,120,429           
        Net interest income       $85,039      
        Net interest spread             2.69%
        Net interest margin (4)             2.80%
1.Average balances for available for sale securities are based on amortized cost
2.Interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a 35 percent federal tax rate.
3.Loans are stated net of unearned income and include nonaccrual loans.
4.Net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis as a percentage of total average interest-earning assets.

 

29 

Year Ended December 31, 2014

       Income/     
   Average   Expense   Yield 
(In thousands except yield information)  Balance   (FTE )   (FTE) 
Assets:               
Interest-earnings assets:               
  Investments:               
     Taxable (1)  $212,038   $4,156    1.96%
     Tax-exempt (1)(2)   52,015    1,160    2.23 
  Loans (2)(3):               
     Mortgages   490,830    16,572    3.38 
     Commercial mortgages   1,156,509    44,319    3.83 
     Commercial   171,701    6,818    3.97 
     Commercial construction   5,996    262    4.37 
     Installment   24,223    969    4.00 
     Home Equity   48,055    1,550    3.23 
     Other   571    53    9.28 
     Total loans   1,897,885    70,543    3.72 
  Federal funds sold   101        0.10 
  Interest-earning deposits   111,554    248    0.22 
     Total interest-earning assets   2,273,593   $76,107    3.35 
Noninterest-earning assets:               
  Cash and due from banks   6,475           
  Allowance for loan losses   (17,462)          
  Premises and equipment   31,220           
  Other assets   60,474           
     Total noninterest-earning assets   80,707           
     Total assets  $2,354,300           
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:               
Interest-bearing deposits:               
  Checking  $498,408   $782    0.16%
  Money markets   680,760    1,612    0.24 
  Savings   114,702    59    0.05 
  Certificates of deposit - retail   162,418    1,522    0.94 
     Subtotal interest-bearing deposits   1,456,288    3,975    0.27 
  Interest-bearing demand – brokered   128,855    306    0.24 
  Certificates of deposit – brokered   97,944    1,384    1.41 
  Total interest-bearing deposits   1,683,087    5,665    0.34 
  Borrowed funds   95,713    1,533    1.60 
  Capital lease obligation   10,085    483    4.79 
     Total interest-bearing liabilities   1,788,885    7,681    0.43 
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:               
  Demand deposits   366,424           
  Accrued expenses and other liabilities   11,960           
     Total noninterest-bearing liabilities   378,384           
Shareholders’ equity   187,031           
     Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity  $2,354,300           
        Net interest income       $68,426      
        Net interest spread             2.92%
        Net interest margin (4)             3.01%

 

1.Average balances for available for sale securities are based on amortized cost.
2.Interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a 35 percent federal tax rate.
3.Loans are stated net of unearned income and include nonaccrual loans.
4.Net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis as a percentage of total average interest-earning assets.

 

30 

The effect of volume and rate changes on net interest income (on a tax-equivalent basis) for the periods indicated are shown below:

 

   Year Ended 2016 Compared with 2015   Year Ended 2015 Compared with 2014 
           Net           Net 
   Difference due to   Change In   Change In   Change In 
   Change In:   Income/   Income/   Income/ 
(In Thousands):  Volume   Rate   Expense   Volume   Rate   Expense 
ASSETS:                        
Investments  $(370)  $291   $(79)   (124)   (255)  $(379)
Loans   18,288    (316)   17,972    28,388    (4,343)   24,045 
Federal funds sold                        
Interest-earning deposits   87    260    347    (34)   (10)   (44)
Total interest income  $18,005   $235   $18,240    28,230    (4,608)  $23,622 
LIABILITIES:                              
Checking  $541   $510   $1,051    655    58   $713 
Money market   518    212    730    303    132    435 
Savings   3        3    (6)   11    5 
Certificates of deposit - retail   1,333    526    1,859    2,276    613    2,889 
Certificates of deposit - brokered   (189)   150    (39)   71    579    650 
Interest bearing demand brokered   (1,071)   1,557    486    1,326    902    2,228 
Borrowed funds   63    99    162    72    (3)   69 
Capital lease obligation   (26)   1    (25)   17    3    20 
Subordinated debt   1,696        1,696             
Total interest expense  $2,868   $3,055   $5,923    4,714    2,295   $7,009 
Net interest income  $15,137   $(2,820)  $12,317    23,516    (6,903)  $16,613 

 

2016 compared to 2015

 

Net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, grew $12.3 million, or 14 percent, in 2016 to $97.4 million from net interest income of $85.0 million in 2015. The net interest margin was 2.74 percent and 2.80 percent for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, a decrease of 6 basis points year over year. Net interest income increased in 2016 due to an increase in average loans, especially commercial mortgages and commercial loans, partially offset by the effect of lower market rates on loans and investments and an increased cost of funds. The net interest margin in 2016 was impacted by the effect from the $50 million subordinated debt offering in June 2016, and also continued to be impacted by the effect of the low interest rate environment throughout the majority of 2016, as well as competitive pressures in attracting new loans and deposits.

 

On a fully tax-equivalent basis, interest income on earning assets increased $18.2 million, or 18 percent, to $118.0 million in 2016 from $99.7 million in 2015. Average earning assets for the year ended December 31, 2016 totaled $3.56 billion compared to $3.04 billion for the same period of 2015, an increase of $522 million or 17 percent over 2015 average earning assets. The average rate earned on earning assets was 3.32 percent in 2016, compared to 3.29 percent in 2015, an increase of 3 basis points.

 

Average interest-bearing liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2016, totaled $2.86 billion, an increase of $405 million, or 17 percent, over the average interest-bearing liabilities for 2015 of $2.45 billion. The average rate paid increased to 0.72 percent for 2016 from 0.60 percent for 2015. The increase in the average rate on interest-bearing liabilities was principally due to growth in higher costing certificates of deposit, the issuance of subordinated debt to help manage the Company’s interest rate risk position, and competitive pressures in attracting new deposits in volumes sufficient to appropriately fund asset growth. The increase in the average rate paid on interest-bearing demand-brokered deposits is primarily due to interest paid on the $180.0 million notional principal in interest rate swaps that the Company is using to hedge against future rises in interest rates. These swaps resulted in an increase of approximately $2.0 million in interest expense, or an additional 0.53 percent in the average rate paid. Brokered certificates of deposit are generally medium/longer term and have been used in the Company’s interest rate risk management practices. The Company utilized a diverse funding mix to meet its funding needs to manage interest rate risk, as well as to retain a higher level of liquidity on its balance sheet.

 

31 

The average balance of borrowings was $133.0 million for 2016 compared to $113.0 million during 2015, an increase of $20.0 million. The average rates paid on total borrowings was 1.33 percent during 2016 compared to 1.42 percent during 2015, a decrease of 9 basis points. The increase in the average balance of short-term borrowings was due to increased use of overnight borrowings to fund loan growth ahead of deposit growth, which positively impacted the cost of funds on borrowings.

 

In June 2016, the Company issued $50.0 million of subordinated debt ($48.7 million net of issuance costs) bearing interest at an annual rate of 6 percent for the first five years, and thereafter at an adjustable rate until maturity in June 2026 or earlier redemption.

 

The average balance on capital lease obligations was $9.9 million and $10.5 million during 2016 and 2015, respectively, while the average rate paid on capital lease obligations was 4.81 percent for both 2016 and 2015.

 

2015 compared to 2014

 

Net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, grew $16.6 million, or 24 percent, in 2015 to $85.0 million from net interest income of $68.4 million in 2014. The net interest margin was 2.80 percent and 3.01 percent for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, a decrease of 21 basis points year over year. Net interest income increased in 2015 due to an increase in loan volumes, especially multifamily mortgages and commercial loans, offset by declines in the average investment portfolios, as well as the effect of lower market rates on loans and investments. The net interest margin for 2015 was impacted by the effect of low market yields, competitive pressures in attracting new loans and deposits, and the maintenance of larger interest bearing deposit/cash balances.

 

On a fully tax-equivalent basis, interest income on earning assets increased $23.6 million, or 31 percent, to $99.7 million in 2015 from $76.1 million in 2014. Average earning assets for the year ended December 31, 2015 totaled $3.04 billion compared to $2.27 billion for the same period of 2014, an increase of $762 million, or 34 percent, over 2014 average earning assets. The average rate earned on earning assets was 3.29 percent in 2015, compared to 3.35 percent in 2014, a decrease of 6 basis points.

 

Average interest-bearing liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2015, totaled $2.45 billion, an increase of $664 million, or 37 percent, over the average interest-bearing liabilities for 2014 of $1.79 billion. The average rate paid increased to 0.60 percent for 2015 from 0.43 percent for 2014. The increase in the average rate on interest-bearing liabilities was due to competitive pressures in attracting new deposits to support loan growth, as well as the growth of brokered certificates of deposits and the effect of interest rate swaps. The increase in the average rate paid on interest-bearing demand-brokered deposits is primarily due to interest paid on the $180.0 million notional principal in interest rate swaps that the Company is using to hedge against future rises in interest rates. These swaps resulted in an increase of approximately $1.6 million in interest expense in 2015, or an additional 0.59 percent in the average rate paid, compared to 2014. Brokered certificates of deposit are generally medium/longer term and have been used in the Company’s interest rate risk management practices. The Company utilized a diverse funding mix to meet its funding needs to manage interest rate risk, as well as to retain a higher level of liquidity on its balance sheet.

 

The average balance of borrowings was $113.0 million for 2015 compared to $95.7 million during 2014, an increase of $17.3 million. Average overnight borrowings increased $16.7 million during 2015 to $29.3 million. The average rates paid on total borrowings was 1.42 percent during 2015 compared to 1.60 percent during 2014, a decrease of 18 basis points. The average rates paid on the Company’s overnight borrowings during 2015 was 0.36 percent compared to 0.38 percent during 2014, while the average rates paid on Federal Home Loan Bank advances was 1.78 percent in 2015 and 2014. The decrease in the overall rate on borrowings is a result of higher utilization of overnight borrowings.

 

The average balance on capital lease obligations was $10.5 million and $10.1 million during 2015 and 2014, respectively, while the average rate paid on capital lease obligations was 4.81 percent and 4.79 percent in 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

32 

 

INVESTMENT SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE: Investment securities available for sale are purchased, sold and/or maintained as a part of the Company’s overall balance sheet management including liquidity and interest rate risk management strategies, and in response to changes in interest rates, liquidity needs, prepayment speeds and/or other factors. These securities are carried at estimated fair value, and unrealized changes in fair value are recognized as a separate component of shareholders’ equity, net of income taxes. Realized gains and losses are recognized in income at the time the securities are sold.

 

At December 31, 2016, the Company had investment securities available for sale with a fair value of $305.4 million compared with $195.6 million at December 31, 2015. A net unrealized loss (net of income tax) of $1.1 million and a net unrealized gain (net of income tax) of $408 thousand were included in shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

The carrying value of investment securities available for sale for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 are shown below:

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
U.S. treasury and U.S. government-               
  sponsored entity bonds  $21,517   $   $35,670 
Mortgage-backed securities-residential               
  (principally U.S. government-sponsored               
  entities)   237,617    160,607    242,289 
SBA pool securities   6,713    7,520    7,944 
State and political subdivision   28,993    22,029    41,394 
Corporate bond   3,113         
Single-issuer trust preferred securities   2,610    2,535    2,400 
CRA investment fund   4,825    2,939    2,955 
  Total  $305,388   $195,630   $332,652 

 

The following table presents the contractual maturities and yields of debt securities available for sale, stated at fair value, as of December 31, 2016:

 

       After 1   After 5         
       But   But   After     
   Within   Within   Within   10     
(Dollars in thousands)  1 Year   5 Years   10 Years   Years   Total 
U.S. treasury and U.S. government-  $   $9,998   $11,519   $   $21,517 
  sponsored entity bonds   %   1.25%   1.81%   %   1.56%
Mortgage-backed securities-  $26   $17,494   $30,832   $189,265   $237,617 
  residential (1)   4.34%   2.37%   1.78%   2.03%   2.02%
SBA pool securities  $   $   $   $6,713   $6,713 
    %   %   %   0.73%   0.73%
State and political subdivisions (2)  $9,487   $9,453   $5,241   $4,812   $28,993 
    1.37%   3.27%   2.75%   3.02%   2.51%
Corporate bond  $   $   $3,113   $   $3,113 
    %   %   5.25%   %   5.25%
Single-issuer trust preferred securities (1)  $   $   $   $2,610   $2,610 
    %   %   %   1.69%   1.69%
  Total  $9,513   $36,945   $50,705   $203,400   $300,563 
    1.38%   2.30%   2.22%   2.01%   2.06%

 

(1)Shown using stated final maturity
(2)Yields presented on a fully tax-equivalent basis.

 

Federal funds sold and interest-earning deposits are an additional part of the Company’s liquidity and interest rate risk management strategies. The combined average balance of these investments during 2016 was $128.6 million compared to $95.4 million in 2015.

 

33 

LOANS: The loan portfolio represents the largest portion of the Company’s earning assets and is the primary source of interest and fee income. Loans are primarily originated in the State of New Jersey and the boroughs of New York City and, to a lesser extent, Pennsylvania. As of December 31, 2016, 44 percent of the total loan portfolio is concentrated in multifamily mortgages and 17 percent of the total loan portfolio is concentrated in commercial mortgages. The discussion below excludes $82.2 million of performing multifamily loans held for sale, as of December 31, 2015, at lower of cost or fair value. There were no multifamily loans held for sale as of December 31, 2016.

 

Total loans were $3.31 billion and $2.91 billion at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, an increase of $398.9 million, or 14 percent, over the previous year. During 2016, commercial mortgages increased $138.1 million due to a continued focus on this type of business. Commercial loans totaled $636.7 million at December 31, 2016, increasing $123.8 million, or 24 percent, from 2015, as the Company continued its comprehensive C&I lending program and added seasoned bankers focused on C&I lending in both 2015 and 2016, including a seasoned head of C&I lending in early 2015. The C&I lending program resulted in robust growth during the current year. Residential mortgage loans totaled $527.4 million at December 31, 2016, an increase of $56.5 million, or 12 percent, from 2015, as the Company focused on relationship based residential mortgage lending. Multifamily mortgage loans during 2016 were basically managed relatively flat compared to 2015, through reduced origination levels and loan sales and participations. This was part of the Company’s balance sheet management strategy to reduce multifamily loans as a percent of the overall loan portfolio and as a percent of total regulatory capital, with C&I loans becoming a larger percentage of the overall loan portfolio.

 

In late 2015, the Company began providing loans that are partially guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (“SBA”), for the purposes of providing working capital and/or, financing the purchase of equipment, inventory or commercial real estate and that could be used for start-up businesses. All SBA loans are underwritten and documented as prescribed by the SBA. The Company will generally sell the guaranteed portion of the SBA loans in the secondary market, with the nonguaranteed portion held in the loan portfolio. During 2016, the Bank sold $6.0 million of the guaranteed portion of SBA loans into the secondary market. As of December 31, 2016, the balance of the non-guaranteed portion of SBA loans held on our balance sheet totaled $1.9 million.

 

The following table presents an analysis of outstanding loans by loan type, excluding multifamily loans held for sale, net of unamortized discounts and deferred loan origination costs, as of December 31,

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
Residential mortgage  $527,370   $470,869   $466,760   $532,911   $515,014 
Multifamily mortgage   1,459,594    1,416,775    1,080,256    541,503    161,705 
Commercial mortgage   551,233    413,118    308,491    290,494    258,381 
Commercial loans   636,714    512,886    308,743    131,795    115,372 
Construction loans   1,405    1,401    5,998    5,893    9,328 
Home equity lines of credit   65,682    52,649    50,141    47,905    49,635 
Consumer and other loans   70,146    45,544    29,878    23,700    23,149 
  Total loans  $3,312,144   $2,913,242   $2,250,267   $1,574,201   $1,132,584 

 

The following table presents the contractual repayments of the loan portfolio, by loan type, at December 31, 2016:

 

   Within   After 1 But   After     
(In thousands)  One Year   Within 5 Years   5 Years   Total 
Residential mortgage  $136,899   $267,065   $123,406   $527,370 
Commercial mortgage                    
   (including multifamily)   445,621    1,389,254    175,952    2,010,827 
Commercial loans   453,354    154,992    28,368    636,714 
Construction loans   1,405            1,405 
Home equity lines of credit   65,682            65,682 
Consumer and other loans   59,028    7,309    3,809    70,146 
  Total loans  $1,161,989   $1,818,620   $331,535   $3,312,144 

 

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The following table presents the loans, by loan type, that have a predetermined interest rate and an adjustable interest rate due after one year at December 31, 2016:

 

   Predetermined   Adjustable 
(In thousands)  Interest Rate   Interest Rate 
Residential mortgage  $205,217   $244,227 
Commercial mortgage          
   (including multifamily)   163,345    1,554,386 
Commercial loans   60,359    90,000 
Construction loans       1,400 
Consumer loans   14,167     
  Total loans  $443,088   $1,890,013 

 

The Company has not made nor invested in subprime loans or “Alt-A” type mortgages. At December 31, 2016, there were no commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers whose loans are classified as nonperforming.

 

Consistent with the Company’s balance sheet management strategy, the Company sold approximately $234 million of performing multifamily mortgages, of which $34 million were participations in 2016. The Company sold approximately $200 million of performing multifamily mortgages through loan participations in 2015. In addition, the Company had $82.2 million of performing multifamily loans classified as loans held for sale, at lower of cost or fair value as of December 31, 2015. There we no multifamily loans held for sale, at lower of cost or fair value as of December 31, 2016.

 

The geographic breakdown of the multifamily portfolio, net of participated multifamily loans, at December 31, 2016 is as follows:

 

(Dollars in thousands)        
New York  $737,373    51%
New Jersey   557,722    38 
Pennsylvania   164,499    11 
Total Multifamily  $1,459,594    100%

 

A further breakdown of the multifamily portfolio by County within each respective State is as follows:

 

New Jersey  New York  Pennsylvania
Essex County   25%  Bronx County   64%  Philadelphia   58%
Hudson County   22   Kings County   16   Bucks County   21 
Passaic County   7   New York County   15   Lehigh County   5 
Bergen County   3   All other NY       All other PA     
Monmouth County   6     Counties   5     Counties   16 
All other NJ Counties   37                 
Total   100%  Total   100%  Total   100%

 

Principal types of owner occupied commercial real estate properties (by Call Report code), included in commercial loans on the balance sheet, at December 31, 2016 are:

 

(Dollars in thousands)        
Office Buildings/Office Condominiums  $45,533    26%
Medical Offices   28,098    16 
Industrial (including Warehouse)   27,708    16 
Retail Buildings/ Shopping Centers   16,910    10 
Auto Dealerships    13,911    8 
Schools   7,935    5 
Restaurants   7,245    4 
Other Owner Occupied CRE Properties   28,783    15 
Total Owner Occupied CRE Loans  $176,123    100%

 

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Principal types of non-owner occupied commercial real estate properties (by Call Report code), at December 31, 2016 are:

 

(Dollars in thousands)        
Retail Buildings/Shopping Centers  $197,939    26%
Healthcare   118,502    16 
Office Buildings/Office Condominiums   104,758    14 
Hotels and Hospitality   97,586    13 
Industrial (including Warehouse)   49,813    7 
Mixed Use (Retail / Office)   43,235    6 
Mixed Use (Commercial / Residential)   39,705    5 
Medical Offices   37,658    5 
Manufactured Home Parks   33,927    4 
Other Non-Owner Occupied CRE Properties   29,135    4 
Total Non-Owner Occupied  CRE Loans  $752,258    100%

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Bank had a concentration in commercial real estate loans as defined by applicable regulatory guidance.

 

The following table presents such concentration levels at December 31, 2016 and 2015:

 

   As of December 31, 
   2016   2015 
Multifamily mortgage loans as a percent of        
   total regulatory capital of the Bank   372%   504%
           
Non-owner occupied commercial real estate          
   loans as a percent of total regulatory capital of          
   the Bank   192    191 
           
Total CRE concentration   564%   695%

 

The Bank believes it addresses the key elements in the risk management framework laid out by its regulators for the effective management of CRE concentration risks.

 

DEPOSITS: At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company reported total deposits of $3.41 billion and $2.94 billion, an increase of $476.4 million, or 16.2 percent, year over year. The Company’s strategy is to fund a majority of loan growth with core deposits, which is an important factor in the generation of net interest income. The Company’s average deposits for 2016 increased $438.0 million, or 16.1 percent, over 2015 average levels to $3.16 billion. On average, the Company saw the largest dollar growth in non-interest-bearing demand, interest-bearing checking, retail certificate of deposits and money market balances. The Company has successfully focused on:

 

·Growth in deposits associated with its private banking activities, including lending activities;
·Business and personal core deposit generation, particularly checking; and
·Municipal relationships within its market territory.

 

The Company continues to maintain brokered interest-bearing demand deposits as an additional source of liquidity. Such deposits are generally a more cost effective alternative to wholesale borrowings and do not require pledging of collateral, as the borrowings do. These deposits decreased to $180.0 million at December 31, 2016 from $200.0 million at December 31, 2015. The Company ensures ample available collateralized liquidity as a backup to these short-term brokered deposits. There are $180.0 million of notional principal interest rate swaps matched to these deposits for interest rate risk management purposes.

 

Average brokered certificates of deposit were reduced slightly in 2016. The majority of these deposits are longer term and were transacted as part of the Company’s interest rate risk management strategy.

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The following table sets forth information concerning the composition of the Company’s average deposit base and average interest rates paid for the following years:

 

(Dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Noninterest-bearing demand  $473,536    %  $394,567    %  $366,424    %
Checking   926,713    0.27    741,199    0.20    498,408    0.16 
Savings   119,043    0.06    116,289    0.06    114,702    0.05 
Money markets   894,215    0.31    746,329    0.27    680,760    0.24 
Certificates of deposit - retail   455,946    1.38    354,626    1.24    162,418    0.94 
Interest-bearing                              
   Demand - brokered   199,208    1.52    268,414    0.94    128,855    0.24 
Certificates of deposit - brokered   93,674    2.13    102,937    1.98    97,944    1.41 
  Total deposits  $3,162,335    0.53%  $2,724,361    0.46%  $2,049,511    0.28%

 

The Company is a participant in the Reich & Tang Demand Deposit Marketplace (“DDM”) program. The Company uses these deposit sweep services to place customer funds into interest-bearing demand (checking) accounts issued by other participating banks. Customer funds are placed at one or more participating bank to ensure that each deposit customer is eligible for the full amount of FDIC insurance. As a program participant, the Company receives reciprocal amounts of deposits from other participating banks. The DDM program is considered to be a source of brokered deposits for bank regulatory purposes. However, the Company considers these reciprocal deposit balances to be in-market customer deposits as distinguished from traditional out-of-market brokered deposits. Reciprocal deposits of $393.0 million are included in the Company’s interest bearing checking deposits as of December 31, 2016.

 

The following table shows the maturity for certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more as of December 31, 2016 (in thousands):

 

Three months or less  $30,471 
Over three months through six months   12,798 
Over six months through twelve months   52,996 
Over twelve months   288,764 
  Total  $385,029 

 

FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK ADVANCES AND OTHER BORROWINGS: At December 31, 2016, Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) advances totaled $61.8 million with a weighted average interest rate of 2.02 percent compared to $83.7 million with a weighted average interest rate of 1.78 percent for the same period in 2015. The Company considers FHLB advances an added source of funding, and accordingly, may execute transactions from time to time as an additional part of Company’s liquidity and interest rate risk management strategies. The FHLB advances outstanding at December 31, 2016 have varying maturities, call dates and interest rates, as well as prepayment penalties. At December 31, 2016 there were no overnight borrowings. At December 31, 2015 overnight borrowings totaled $40.7 million with a weighted average rate of 0.52%.

 

SUBORDINATED DEBT: During June 2016, the Company issued $50.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating subordinated notes (the “Notes”) to certain institutional investors. The Notes are non-callable for five years, have a stated maturity of June 30, 2026, and bear interest at a fixed rate of 6.0% per year until June 30, 2021. From June 30, 2021 to the maturity date or early redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to a level equal to the then current three-month LIBOR rate plus 485 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears. Debt issuance costs incurred totaled $1.3 million and are being amortized to maturity.  Subordinated debt is presented net of issuance cost on the Consolidated Statements of Condition.

 

The subordinated debt issuance benefitted the Company’s regulatory total capital amount and ratio. Approximately $40.0 million of the net proceeds from the sale of the Notes were used by the Company to contribute capital to the Bank in the second quarter of 2016, benefitting all of the Bank’s regulatory capital amounts and ratios. The remaining funds

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(approximately $10 million) were retained by the Company and are intended to cover future subordinated debt interest payments.

 

In connection with the issuance of the Notes, the Company obtained ratings from Kroll Bond Rating Agency (“KBRA”). KBRA assigned investment grade rating of BBB- for the Company’s subordinated debt.

 

ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES AND RELATED PROVISION: The allowance for loan losses was $32.2 million at December 31, 2016 compared to $25.9 million at December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2016, the allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans outstanding was 0.97 percent compared to 0.89 percent at December 31, 2015. The provision for loan losses was $7.5 million for 2016, $7.1 million for 2015 and $4.9 million for 2014.

 

In determining an appropriate amount for the allowance, the Bank segments and evaluates the loan portfolio based on Federal call report codes, which are based on collateral. The following portfolio classes have been identified:

 

a)Primary Residential Mortgages. The Bank originates one to four family residential mortgage loans in the Tri-State area, Pennsylvania and Florida. On a case by case basis, the Bank will lend in additional states, pending compliance with that state’s laws governing residential lending. When reviewing residential mortgage loan applications, detailed verifiable information is gathered on income, assets, employment and a tri-merged credit report obtained from a credit repository that will determine total monthly debt obligations. Utilizing an independent appraisal from an approved Appraisal Management Company, the Bank makes residential mortgage loans up to 80 percent of the appraised value and up to 97 percent with private mortgage insurance. The Bank has developed a portfolio of mortgage products that are used exclusively to attract or maintain wealth, commercial or retail banking relationships. There is no differentiation by property type and loan-to-value (“LTVs”)are done uniformly. There are three loan levels: (1) loans up to $1 million, (2) loans greater than $1 million to $3 million, and (3) loans greater than $3 million to $5 million. Loans greater than $5 million will also be considered based on the strength of the overall credit profile of the borrower. Underwriting guidelines include (i) minimum credit report scores of 700 and (ii) a maximum debt to income ratio of 45 percent. The Bank may consider an exception to any guideline if there are strong compensating factors that address and mitigate any risk. Generally, the Bank retains in its portfolio residential mortgage loans with fixed rate maturities of no greater than 7 years, which then convert to annually adjusted floating rates. Community Development loans granted under the Affordable Housing Program are offered with 30 year maturities. Loans with longer maturities or lower credit scores are sold to secondary market investors. The Bank does not originate, purchase or carry any sub-prime mortgage loans.

 

Primary risk characteristics associated with primary residential mortgage loans typically involve major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income; unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic events; and divorce or death. In addition, residential mortgage loans that have adjustable rates could expose the borrower to higher debt service requirements in a rising interest rate environment. Further, real estate value could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential exposure for the Bank.

 

b)Home Equity Lines of Credit. The Bank provides revolving lines of credit against one to four family residences in the Tri-State area. These loans are primarily in a second lien position, but may be used as a first lien, in lieu of a primary residential first mortgage. When reviewing home equity line of credit applications, the Bank collects detailed verifiable information regarding income, assets, employment and a single merged credit report that will determine total monthly debt obligations. The Bank will use an automated valuation model on all lines up to $250,000 and will obtain an independent appraisal of the subject property on all applications exceeding $250,000. LTVs and combined LTVs are capped at 80% or 65% on primary residences, depending on the combined debt amount, and are not allowed on investment properties. These loans are subordinate to a first mortgage which may be from another lending institution. The Bank will require that the mortgage securing the home equity line of credit be no lower than a second lien position. The combined first mortgage and home equity line, must be no more than 80 percent of the appraised value of the property when the combined debt is less than or equal to $800,000. For line amounts where the combined debt exceeds $800,000, the maximum LTV ratio is 65 percent. All applications for home equity lines of credit adhere to the underwriting standards and guidelines that consumer lending is regulated and governed by. Exceptions can be made to these guidelines with compensating factors that address and mitigate the risk associated with the exception.

 

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Primary risk characteristics associated with home equity lines of credit typically involve major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income; unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic events; and divorce or death. In addition, home equity lines of credit typically are made with variable or floating interest rates, such as the Prime Rate, which could expose the borrower to higher debt service requirements in a rising interest rate environment. Further, real estate value could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential exposure for the Bank.

 

c)Junior Lien Loan on Residence. The Bank provides junior lien loans (“JLL”) against one to four family properties in the Tri-State area. Junior lien loans can be either in the form of an amortizing fixed rate home equity loan or a revolving home equity line of credit. These loans are subordinate to a first mortgage which may be from another lending institution. The Bank will require that the mortgage securing the JLL be no lower than a second lien position. When reviewing the JLL application, the Bank collects detailed verifiable information regarding income, assets, employment and a single merged credit report that will determine total monthly debt obligations. The Bank will use an automated valuation model on all JLLs up to $250,000 and will obtain an independent appraisal of the subject property on all applications exceeding $250,000. LTV and combined LTVs are capped at 80% or 65% on primary residences, depending on the combined debt amount, and are not allowed on investment properties. The combined first mortgage and JLL, must be no more than 80 percent of the appraised value of the property when the combined debt is less than or equal to $800,000. For JLL amounts where the combined debt exceeds $800,000, the maximum loan-to-value ratio is 65 percent. All applications for JLLs adhere to the underwriting standards and guidelines that consumer lending is regulated and governed by. Exceptions can be made to these guidelines with compensating factors that address and mitigate the risk associated with the exception. Primary risk characteristics associated with JLLs typically involve major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income; unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic events; and divorce or death. Further, real estate values could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential exposure for the Bank.

 

d)Multifamily Loans. Multifamily loans are commercial mortgages on residential apartment buildings. Within the multifamily sector, the Bank’s primary focus is to lend against larger non-luxury apartment buildings and rent regulated properties with at least 30 units that are owned and managed by experienced sponsors. As of December 31, 2016, the average property size in the portfolio was 45 units.

 

Multifamily loans are expected to be repaid from the cash flow of the underlying property so the collective amount of rents must be sufficient to cover all operating expense, maintenance, taxes and debt service. The Bank includes debt service coverage covenants in these loans and the average ratio at original underwriting was about 1.54x. Increases in vacancy rates, interest rates or other changes in general economic conditions can all have an impact on the borrower and their ability to repay the loan. Certain markets, such as the Boroughs of New York City, are rent regulated, and as such, feature rents that are considered to be below market rates. Generally, rent regulated properties are characterized by relatively stable occupancy levels and longer term tenants. As a loan asset class for many banks, multifamily loans have experienced much lower historical loss rates compared to other types of commercial lending.

 

The Bank’s loan policy allows loan to appraised value ratios of up to 75 percent and the overall portfolio average loan to value ratio was at 60.0% at year-end 2016. To obtain the optimum 50% risk capital rating under regulatory guidance, we have modified our underwriting of multifamily loans. The majority of all new originations have a ten year maturity with a five year reprice as contrasted with our former standard of a five year maturity with the borrower having an option to renew for five years at a reprice. For all new originations of refinances, we obtain prior pay history documentation, so that we can document an adequate twelve month pay history. These changes allow us to use a 50% risk rating for multifamily loans as long as other criteria are met.

 

Multifamily loan terms include prepayment penalties for early payoffs and generally require that the Bank escrow for real estate taxes. Multifamily loans will typically have a minimum debt service coverage ratio that provides for an adequate cushion for unexpected or uncertain events and changes in market conditions. In the loan underwriting process, the Bank requires an independent appraisal and review, appropriate environmental due diligence and an assessment of the property’s condition.

 

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e)Commercial Real Estate Loans. The Bank provides mortgage loans for commercial real estate that is either owner occupied or managed as an investment property (non-owner occupied). The terms and conditions of all commercial mortgage loans are tailored to the specific attributes of the borrower and any guarantors as well as the nature of the property and loan purpose. In the case of investment commercial real estate properties, the Bank reviews, among other things, the composition and diversity of the underlying tenants, terms and conditions of the underlying tenant lease agreements, the resources and experience of the sponsor, and the condition and location of the subject property.

 

Commercial real estate loans are generally considered to have a higher degree of credit risk than multifamily loans as they may be dependent on the ongoing success and operating viability of a fewer number of tenants who are occupying the property and who may have a greater degree of exposure to various industry or economic conditions. To mitigate this risk, the Bank will generally require an assignment of leases, direct recourse to the owners, and a risk appropriate interest rate and loan structure. In underwriting an investment commercial real estate loan, the Bank evaluates the property’s historical operating income as well as its projected sustainable cash flow and generally requires a minimum debt service coverage ratio that provides for an adequate cushion for unexpected or uncertain events and changes in market conditions.

 

With an owner occupied property, a detailed credit assessment is made of the operating business since its ongoing success and profitability will be the primary source of repayment. While owner occupied properties include the real estate as collateral, the risk assessment of the operating business is more similar to the underwriting of commercial and industrial loans (described below). The Bank will evaluate factors such as, but not limited to, the expected sustainability of profits and cash flow, the depth and experience of management and ownership, the nature of competition, and the impact of forces like regulatory change and evolving technology.

 

The Bank’s policy allows loan to appraised value ratios of up to 75 percent. Commercial mortgage loans are generally made on a fixed rate basis with periodic rate resets every five or seven years over an underlying market index. Resets may not be automatic and subject to re-approval. Commercial mortgage loan terms include prepayment penalties for early payoffs and generally require that the Bank escrow for real estate taxes. The Bank requires an independent appraisal, an assessment of the property’s condition, and appropriate environmental due diligence. With all commercial real estate loans, the Bank’s standard practice is to require a depository relationship.

 

f)Commercial and Industrial Loans. The Bank provides lines of credit and term loans to operating companies for business purposes. The loans are generally secured by business assets such as accounts receivable, inventory, business vehicles and equipment. In addition, these loans often include commercial real estate as collateral to strengthen the Bank’s position and further mitigate risk. When underwriting business loans, among other things, the Bank evaluates the historical profitability and debt servicing capacity of the borrowing entity and the financial resources and character of the principal owners and guarantors.

 

Commercial and industrial loans are typically repaid first by the cash flow generated by the borrower’s business operation. The primary risk characteristics are specific to the underlying business and its ability to generate sustainable profitability and resulting positive cash flow. Factors that may influence a business’s profitability include, but are not limited to, demand for its products or services, quality and depth of management, degree of competition, regulatory changes, and general economic conditions. Commercial and industrial loans are generally secured by business assets; however, the ability of the Bank to foreclose and realize sufficient value from the assets is often highly uncertain. To mitigate the risk characteristics of commercial and industrial loans, the Bank will often require more frequent reporting requirements from the borrower in order to better monitor its business performance.

 

g)Agricultural Production. These are loans to finance agricultural production and other loans to farmers. The Bank does not currently engage in this type of lending.

 

h)Commercial Construction. The Bank does not currently engage in commercial construction activity, given the current economic environment, and is not likely to be increasing its exposure in this category.

 

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i)Consumer and Other. These are loans to individuals for household, family and other personal expenditures as well as obligations of states and political subdivisions in the U.S. This also represents all other loans that cannot be categorized in any of the previous mentioned loan segments.

 

Bank Management believes that the underwriting guidelines previously described address the primary risk characteristics. Further, the Bank has dedicated staff and system resources to monitor and collect on any potentially problematic loans.

 

The provision was based upon Management’s review and evaluation of the size and composition of the loan portfolio, actual loan loss experience, level of delinquencies, general market and economic conditions, detailed analysis of individual loans for which full collectability may not be assured, and the existence and fair value of the collateral and guarantees securing the loans. Although Management used the best information available, the level of the allowance for loan losses remains an estimate, which is subject to significant judgment and short-term change. Various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Company’s allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require the Company to make additional provisions for loan losses based upon information available to them at the time of their examination. Furthermore, the majority of the Company’s loans are secured by real estate in the State of New Jersey and the New York City area. Accordingly, the collectability of a substantial portion of the carrying value of the Company’s loan portfolio is susceptible to changes in market conditions in these areas and may be adversely affected should real estate values decline further or if the geographic areas serviced experience continued adverse economic conditions. Future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary due to economic, operating, regulatory and other conditions beyond the Company’s control.

 

The following table presents the loan loss experience, by loan type, during the periods ended December 31, of the years indicated:

 

(Dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
Allowance for loan losses at                         
  Beginning of year  $25,856   $19,480   $15,373   $12,735   $13,223 
Loans charged-off during the period:                         
  Residential mortgage   1,047    638    273    611    1,676 
  Commercial mortgage   531    16    669    56    6,987 
  Commercial   16    73    123    16    305 
  Home equity lines of credit   91    210            91 
  Consumer and other   5    54    23    357    100 
  Total loans charged-off   1,690    991    1,088    1,040    9,159 
Recoveries during the period:                         
  Residential mortgage   28    17    1    48    3 
  Commercial mortgage   318    29    124    114    316 
  Commercial   92    205    85    65    60 
  Home equity lines of credit   16    2             
  Consumer and other   88    14    110    26    17 
  Total recoveries   542    267    320    253    396 
Net charge-offs   1,148    724    768    787    8,763 
Provision charge to expense   7,500    7,100    4,875    3,425    8,275 
Allowance for loan losses at end of year  $32,208   $25,856   $19,480   $15,373   $12,735 
                          
Ratios:                         
Allowance for loan losses/total loans   0.97%   0.89%   0.87%   0.98%   1.12%
Allowance for loan losses/                         
   total nonperforming loans   285.94    383.22    284.38    231.87    108.55 

 

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The following table shows the allocation of the allowance for loan losses and the percentage of each loan category, by collateral type, to total loans as of December 31, of the years indicated:

                                         
       % of       % of       % of       % of       % of 
       Loan       Loan       Loan       Loan       Loan 
       Category       Category       Category       Category       Category 
(Dollars in      To Total       To Total       To Total       To Total       To Total 
thousands)  2016   Loans   2015   Loans   2014   Loans   2013   Loans   2012   Loans 
Residential  $3,915    19.1   $2,449    18.8   $3,188    24.1   $2,698    38.7   $3,628    52.2 
Commercial                                                  
  and other   28,050    78.7    23,293    79.6    16,196    74.7    12,597    60.3    9,015    46.4 
Consumer   243    2.2    112    1.6    96    1.2    78    1.0    92    1.4 
  Total  $32,208    100.00   $25,856    100.00   $19,480    100.0   $15,373    100.0   $12,735    100.0 

 

The allowance for loan losses as of December 31, 2016 totaled $32.2 million compared to $25.9 million at December 31, 2015. The allowance for loan loss as a percentage of loans increased to 0.97 percent at December 31, 2016 compared to 0.89 percent at December 31, 2015. The provision for loan losses made during 2016 totaled $7.5 million compared with $7.1 million for 2015. The provision for loan losses made was primarily influenced by net charge offs taken during the year of $1.1 million, increases in specific reserves on impaired loans, and the impact of loan growth experienced during 2016. The Company believes that the allowance for loan losses as of December 31, 2016 represents a reasonable estimate for probable incurred losses in the portfolio.

 

The portion of the allowance for loan losses allocated to loans collectively evaluated for impairment, commonly referred to as general reserves, was $31.4 million at December 31, 2016 and $25.4 million at December 31, 2015. General reserves at December 31, 2016 and 2015 represent 0.96 percent and 0.87 percent, respectively, of loans collectively evaluated for impairment. The increase in general reserves is a result of growth experienced by the Company in certain loan classes (C&I, CRE) that carry a higher general reserve calculation because of the inherent nature of these loans compared to less risky loans, such as multifamily and residential that carry a lower general reserve allocation. The Company experienced growth in the loan portfolio of approximately $317 million, including loans held for sale. Multifamily and residential loan classes make up 60 percent of the loan portfolio as of December 31, 2016 compared to approximately 66 percent at December 31, 2015.

 

The specific reserve component of the allowance for loan losses increased to $824 thousand at December 31, 2016 compared to $490 thousand as of December 31, 2015.

 

The allowance for loan losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans decreased, as the level of nonperforming loans increased during the year. Nonperforming loans are specifically evaluated for impairment. Also, Management commonly records partial charge-offs of the excess of the principal balance over the fair value, less costs to sell, of collateral for collateral dependent impaired loans; as a result, the allowance for loan losses does not always change proportionately with changes in nonperforming loans. Management charged off $1.7 million on loans identified as collateral-dependent impaired loans during 2016 and charged off $938 thousand on loans identified as collateral-dependent impaired loans during 2015.

 

42 

 

ASSET QUALITY:

 

The following table presents various asset quality data for the years indicated. These tables do not include loans held for sale.

   Years Ended December 31, 
(Dollars in thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2013   2012 
                     
Loans past due 30-89 days  $1,356   $2,143   $1,755   $2,953   $3,786 
                          
Troubled debt restructured loans  $22,275   $18,663   $15,033   $13,966   $9,316 
Loans past due 90 days or                         
  more and still accruing interest  $   $   $   $   $ 
Nonaccrual loans   11,264    6,747    6,850    6,630    11,732 
  Total nonperforming loans   11,264    6,747    6,850    6,630    11,732 
Other real estate owned   534    563    1,324    1,941    3,496 
  Total nonperforming assets  $11,798   $7,310   $8,174   $8,571   $15,228 
                          
Ratios:                         
Total nonperforming loans/total loans   0.34%   0.23%   0.30%   0.42%   1.04%
Total nonperforming loans/total assets   0.29    0.20    0.25    0.34    0.70 
Total nonperforming assets/total assets   0.30    0.22    0.30    0.44    0.91 

 

Due to the continued weakness in the housing markets and economic environment during 2016, some borrowers have found it difficult to make their loan payments under contractual terms. In certain of these cases, the Company has chosen to grant concessions and modify certain loan terms.

 

The following table presents the troubled debt restructured loans, by collateral, at December 31, 2016 and 2015:

 

   December 31,   Number of   December 31,   Number of 
(Dollars in thousands)  2016   Relationships   2015   Relationships 
Primary residential mortgage  $10,369    31   $6,642    27 
Junior Lien Loan on Residence   114    2    59    1 
Owner-occupied commercial real estate   711    1    750    1 
Investment commercial real estate   10,927    3    11,074    3 
Commercial and industrial   154    2    138    1 
  Total  $22,275    39   $18,663    33 

 

At December 31, 2016 there were $4.5 million of troubled debt restructured loans included in nonaccrual loans above compared to $2.4 million at December 31, 2015. All troubled debt restructured loans are considered and included in impaired loans at December 31, 2016 and had specific reserves of $550 thousand. At December 31, 2015, all troubled debt restructured loans were considered and included in impaired loans and had specific reserves of $441 thousand.

 

Except as disclosed, the Company does not have any potential problem loans that causes Management to have serious doubts as to the ability of such borrowers to comply with the present loan repayment terms and which may result in disclosure of such loans.

 

Impaired loans totaled $29.1 million and $23.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Impaired loans include nonaccrual loans of $11.3 million and $6.7 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Impaired loans also include accruing troubled debt restructuring loans of $17.8 million at December 31, 2016 and $16.2 million at December 31, 2015.

 

43 

 

The following table presents impaired loans, by collateral type, at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

   December 31,   Number of   December 31,   Number of 
(Dollars in thousands)  2016   Relationships   2015   Relationships 
Primary residential mortgage  $15,814    52   $9,752    45 
Home equity lines of credit   53    3    254    5 
Junior lien loan on residence   229    4    176    3 
Owner-occupied commercial real estate   1,486    3    1,272    2 
Investment commercial real estate   11,335    4    11,482    4 
Commercial and industrial   154    2    171    2 
  Total  $29,071    68   $23,107    61 
Specific reserves, included in the                    
  allowance for loan losses  $824        $490      

 

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS: The following table shows the significant contractual obligations of the Company by expected payment period, as of December 31, 2016:

 

   Less Than           More Than     
(In thousands)  One Year   1-3 Years   3-5 Years   5 Years   Total 
Loan commitments  $434,364   $   $   $   $434,364 
Long-term debt obligations   23,897    37,898        48,764    110,559 
Purchase obligations   4,118    8,000    4,218    22    16,358 
Capital lease obligations   1,081    2,273    2,427    6,587    12,368 
Operating lease obligations   1,821    3,034    2,513    1,953    9,321 
  Total contractual obligations  $465,281   $51,205   $9,158   $57,326   $582,970 

 

Long-term debt obligations include borrowings from the Federal Home Loan Bank with defined terms. The table reflects scheduled repayments of principal.

 

Leases represent obligations entered into by the Company for the use of land and premises. The leases generally have escalation terms based upon certain defined indexes. Common area maintenance charges may also apply and are adjusted annually based on the terms of the lease agreements.

 

Purchase obligations represent legally binding and enforceable agreements to purchase goods and services from third parties and consist of contractual obligations under data processing service agreements. The Company also enters into various routine rental and maintenance contracts for facilities and equipment. These contracts are generally for one year.

 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS: The following table shows the amounts and expected maturities of significant commitments, consisting primarily of letters of credit, as of December 31, 2016.

 

   Less Than           More Than     
(In thousands)  One Year   1-3 Years   3-5 Years   5 Years   Total 
Financial letters of credit  $2,548   $   $2,353   $322   $5,223 
Performance letters of credit   2,650        3,610    226    6,486 
Commercial letters of credit           1,062    20    1,082 
  Total letters of credit  $5,198   $   $7,025   $568   $12,791 

 

Commitments under standby letters of credit, both financial and performance, do not necessarily represent future cash requirements, in that these commitments often expire without being drawn upon.

 

44 

 

OTHER INCOME: The following table presents the major components of other income:

 

   Years Ended December 31,   Change 
(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2016 v 2015   2015 v 2014 
Service charges and fees  $3,252   $3,323   $3,111   $(71)  $212 
Bank owned life insurance   1,407    1,297    1,092    110    205 
Loan fee income   1,259    567    280    692    287 
Gains on loans held for sale at fair                         
   value (mortgage banking)   1,010    528    439    482    89 
Securities gains, net   119    527    260    (408)   267 
Fee income related to loan level,                         
   back-to-back swaps   1,638    373        1,265    373 
Gains on loans held for sale at                         
   lower of cost or fair value (residential)           166        (166)
Gains on loans held for sale at                         
   lower of cost or fair value (multifamily)   1,233            1,233     
Gain on sale of SBA loans   623    7        616    7 
Other income   137    53    217    84    (164)
Total other income  $10,678   $6,675   $5,565   $4,003   $1,110 

 

2016 compared to 2015

 

The Company recorded total other income of $10.7 million, excluding wealth management fee income, reflecting an increase of $4.0 million, or 60 percent, compared to 2015 levels. The increase in 2016 was attributable to increases in fee income related to loan level, back-to-back swaps, gain on Small Business Administration (“SBA”) loans, loan fee income, and gain on sale of loans held for sale at lower of cost or fair value, partially offset by a decrease in securities gains.

 

Loan fee income, including late fees, unused credit lines fees and loan servicing income increased $692 thousand to $1.3 million for 2016 as compared to 2015. Increases in loan servicing fees were due to our continued multifamily loan participations. Additionally, the Company recorded greater unused line of credit fees associated with the commercial lending business.

 

Securities gains were $119 thousand for 2016 compared to $527 thousand for 2015. Sales of securities have been generally employed to benefit interest rate risk, prepayment risk, and/or liquidity risk. Given the shorter duration of our investment portfolio and the interest rate environment, such sales will continue to be a very small component of the Company’s operations.

 

Bank owned life insurance income was $1.4 million for 2016 compared to $1.3 million for 2015, an increase of $110 thousand related to an increase in the bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”) policy of $10 million which occurred in the fourth quarter of 2015. This increase was partially offset by additional income related to the net life insurance death benefit under its BOLI policies in 2015.

 

Fee income related to loan level, back-to-back swaps was $1.6 million for 2016 compared to $373 thousand in 2015. The increase was a result of new contracts in 2016. The program utilizes mirror interest rate swaps, one directly with a commercial loan customer and one directly with a well-established counterparty. This enables a commercial loan customer to benefit from a fixed rate loan, while the Company records a floating rate loan. The program provides enhanced interest rate risk management, as well as the potential for fee income for the Company. While the Company cannot predict the amount of fee income that may be recognized each period, this program is a part of ongoing operations.

 

In late 2015, the Company began providing loans that are partially guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (“SBA”), for the purposes of providing working capital and/or, financing the purchase of equipment, inventory or commercial real estate and that could be used for start-up business. All SBA loans are underwritten and documented as prescribed by the SBA. The Company will generally sell the guaranteed portion of the SBA loans in the secondary market, with the non-guaranteed portion of SBA loans held in the loan portfolio. Gain on sale of SBA loans for 2016 included $623 thousand of income related to the Company’s SBA lending and sale program.

 

45 

Gains on the sale of multifamily loans held for sale at the lower of cost or fair value was $1.2 million for 2016. During the first quarter of 2016, the Company began selling whole multifamily loans in addition to multifamily loan participations. The Company intends to continue to employ loan sales and loan participations, as needed, to manage the Company’s balance sheet.

 

2015 compared to 2014

 

The Company recorded total other income, excluding wealth management fee income of $6.7 million in 2015, reflecting an increase of $1.1 million or 20 percent compared to 2014 levels. The increase in 2015 was attributable to increases in net securities gains, service charges, BOLI and swap fee income, partially offset by a decrease in gain on ORE and gain on loans held at lower of cost or fair value.

 

Loan fee income, including late fees increased $287 thousand to $567 thousand for 2015 as compared to 2014. The increase in loan sale gains is due to increased levels of mortgage loans originated for sale. This increase in originations for sale was caused by market changes, as well as a shift in strategy, emphasizing the sale of mortgages.

 

Securities gains were $527 thousand for 2015 compared to $260 thousand for 2014. Sales of securities have been generally employed to benefit interest rate risk, prepayment risk, and/or liquidity risk. Given the short duration of the securities portfolio, sales have been employed much more often in 2015 compared to 2014.

 

BOLI income was $1.3 million for 2015 compared to $1.1 million for 2014 an increase of $205 thousand related to a net life insurance death benefit under its BOLI policies.

 

Swap fee income was $373 thousand for 2015 related to the Company’s loan level/back-to-back swap program, which was implemented during 2015.

 

OPERATING EXPENSES: The following table presents the major components of operating expenses:

 

   Years Ended December 31,   Change 
(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014   2016 v 2015   2015 v 2014 
Compensation and employee benefits  $45,003   $40,278   $36,241   $4,725   $4,037 
Premises and equipment   11,245    11,569    9,963    (324)   1,606 
Other operating expenses:                         
Professional and legal fees   3,459    2,747    1,873    712    874 
FDIC assessment   4,758    2,154    1,381    2,604    773 
Wealth Division other expense   2,029    2,147    1,896    (118)   251 
Branch restructure       1,735        (1,735)   1,735 
Telephone   976    942    914    34    28 
Advertising   824    637    594    187    43 
Loan expense   715    426    532    289    (106)
Postage   341    376    391    (35)   (15)
Stationery and supplies   297    318    306    (21)   12 
Provision for ORE losses       250    400    (250)   (150)
Other operating expenses   5,465    5,347    5,049    118    298 
Total operating expense  $75,112   $68,926   $59,540   $6,186   $9,386 

 

2016 compared to 2015

 

Operating expenses totaled $75.1 million in 2016, compared to $68.9 million in 2015, reflecting an increase of $6.2 million, or 9 percent. Salaries and benefits expense, which accounts for the largest portion of operating expenses, totaled $45.0 million in 2016, reflecting an increase of $4.7 million or 12 percent, when compared to 2015. Strategic hiring that was in line with the Company’s Strategic Plan, including staff associated with credit and risk management, normal salary increases, the acquisition of Wealth Management Consultants in May 2015 and increased bonus/incentive accruals associated with the Company’s growth, all of which contributed to the increase in salaries and benefits expense when comparing the 2016 to the 2015 years.

 

46 

In 2015, the Company recorded a total of $2.5 million of charges related to the closure of two branch offices. Branch restructure charges, included in other operating expenses, totaled $1.7 million, while depreciation expense, included in premises and equipment expense, related to the closures totaled $723 thousand of the $2.5 million.

 

The Company recorded FDIC assessment expense of $4.8 million and $2.2 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively, an increase of $2.6 million, or 121 percent year over year. The Company previously disclosed the FDIC assessment expense for 2016 would be significantly higher than 2015. However, starting in the third quarter of 2016, the Company’s FDIC premium declined because the FDIC assessment system was revised. Revisions for “small institutions” (under $10 billion in assets) resulted in, among other things, the elimination of risk categories and utilization of a financial ratios method to determine assessment rates. The changes reduced the Company’s assessment rate by nearly 50 percent in the third and fourth quarters of 2016, when compared to the first and second quarters’ 2016 assessment rate.

 

The Company also previously disclosed that other operating expenses, including professional fees, would be higher in 2016. Professional fees were $3.5 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016 as compared to $2.7 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2015, an increase of $712 thousand or 26 percent. Given the Company’s significant growth and high concentration in multifamily lending, the Company accelerated costs over 2016 to ensure it adhered to best in class risk management practices. The Company had originally planned for such expenditures over a two to three year period, but felt it prudent to push them forward into 2016.

 

2015 compared to 2014

 

Operating expenses totaled $68.9 million in 2015, compared to $59.5 million in 2014, resulting in an increase of $9.4 million, or 16 percent. Salaries and benefits expense, which accounts for the largest portion of operating expenses, totaled $40.3 million in 2015, reflecting an increase of $4.0 million or 11 percent, when compared to 2014. This is largely due to the continuation of strategic hiring in line with the Strategic Plan. Strategic hiring that was considered in the Company’s Strategic Plan, the acquisition of a wealth management company, normal salary increases and increases in bonus and incentive accruals contributed to the increase in salaries and benefits expense when comparing the 2015 to the 2014 years.

 

In 2015, the Company recorded a total of $2.5 million of charges related to the closure of two branch offices. Branch restructure charges totaled $1.7 million, while depreciation expense related to the closures totaled $723 thousand of the $2.5 million. Management anticipates that the restructuring will create future benefit in the form of lower expenses.

 

Provision for ORE expense was $250 thousand and $400 thousand in 2015 and 2014, respectively. All ORE provision was related to one large ORE property. Loan expense decreased $106 thousand or 20 percent to $426 thousand in 2015, due to fewer problem loans in 2015 compared to 2014.

 

The Company recorded FDIC assessment expense of $2.2 million and $1.4 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively, an increase of $773 thousand, or 56 percent year over year. This increase is largely due to the increased size of our balance sheet from 2014.

 

 

INCOME TAXES: Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2016, was $16.3 million compared to income tax expense of $12.2 million for the same period of 2015. The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2016 was 38.05 percent compared to 37.86 percent for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase in income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2016 was due to an increase in pre-tax income.

 

CAPITAL RESOURCES: A solid capital base provides the Company with the ability to support future growth and financial strength and is essential to executing the Company’s Strategic Plan – “Expanding Our Reach.” The Company’s capital strategy is intended to provide stability to expand its businesses, even in stressed environments. Quarterly stress testing is integral to the Company’s capital management process.

 

The Company strives to maintain capital levels in excess of internal “triggers” and in excess of those considered to be well capitalized under regulatory guidelines applicable to banks. Maintaining an adequate capital position supports the Company’s goal of providing shareholders an attractive and stable long-term return on investment.

 

47 

The Company’s capital position during 2016 was benefitted by net income of $26.5 million and $22.5 million related to voluntary share purchases under the Dividend Reinvestment Plan, which the Company believes will continue to be a source of new capital for the Company.

 

At December 31, 2016, the Company’s GAAP capital as a percent of total assets was 8.36 percent. At December 31, 2016, the Company’s regulatory leverage, common equity tier 1, tier 1 and total risk based capital ratios were 8.35 percent, 10.60 percent, 10.60 percent and 13.25 percent, respectively. At December 31, 2016, the Bank’s regulatory leverage, common equity tier 1, tier 1 and total risk based capital ratios were 9.31 percent, 11.82 percent, 11.82 percent and 12.87 percent, respectively. The Bank’s regulatory capital ratios are all above the ratios to be considered well capitalized under regulatory guidance.

 

 

To be categorized as well capitalized, the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I risk-based, common equity Tier I and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table.

 

The Bank’s actual capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:

 

       To Be Well       For Capital 
       Capitalized Under   For Capital   Adequacy Purposes 
       Prompt Corrective   Adequacy   Including Capital 
   Actual   Action Provisions   Purposes   Conservation Buffer (A) 
(Dollars in thousands)  Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio 
As of December 31, 2016:                                
  Total capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  $392,305    12.87%  $304,758    10.00%  $243,806    8.00% $262,854    8.625%
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   360,097    11.82    243,806    8.00    182,855    6.00    201,902    6.625 
                                         
  Common equity tier I                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   360,094    11.82    198,093    6.50    137,141    4.50    156,188    5.125 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to average assets)   360,097    9.31    193,430    5.00    154,744    4.00    154,744    4.00 
                                         
As of December 31, 2015:                                        
  Total capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  $297,497    11.32%  $262,719    10.00%  $210,176    8.00%   N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   271,641    10.34    210,176    8.00    157,632    6.00    N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Common equity tier I                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   271,641    10.34    170,768    6.50    118,224    4.50    N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to average assets)   271,641    8.04    169,027    5.00    135,221    4.00    N/A    N/A 
                                         

 

The Company’s actual capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:

 

       To Be Well       For Capital 
       Capitalized Under   For Capital   Adequacy Purposes 
       Prompt Corrective   Adequacy   Including Capital 
   Actual   Action Provisions   Purposes   Conservation Buffer (A) 
(Dollars in thousands)  Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio 
As of December 31, 2016:                                
  Total capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  $404,017    13.25%   N/A    N/A   $243,910    8.00%  $262,966    8.625%
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   323,045    10.60    N/A    N/A    182,933    6.00    201,988    6.625 
                                         
  Common equity tier I                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   323,042    10.60    N/A    N/A    137,200    4.50    156,255    5.125 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to average assets)   323,045    8.35    N/A    N/A    154,788    4.00    154,788    4.00 
                                         
As of December 31, 2015:                                        
  Total capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  $299,593    11.40%   N/A    N/A   $210,209    8.00%   N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   273,738    10.42    N/A    N/A    157,657    6.00    N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Common equity tier I                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   273,738    10.42    N/A    N/A    118,242    4.50    N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to average assets)   273,738    8.10    N/A    N/A    135,237    4.00    N/A    N/A 
                                         

 

48 

(A)

When fully phased in on January 1, 2019, the Basel Rules will require the Company and the Bank to maintain a 2.5% “capital conservation buffer” on top of the minimum risk-weighted asset ratios. The capital conservation buffer is designed to absorb losses during periods of economic stress. Banking institutions with a ratio of (i) CET1 to risk-weighted assets, (ii) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets or (iii) total capital to risk-weighted assets above the respective minimum but below the capital conservation buffer will face constraints on dividends, equity repurchases and discretionary bonus payments to executive officers based on the amount of the shortfall. The implementation of the capital conservation buffer began on January 1, 2016 at the 0.625% level and will increase by 0.625% on each subsequent January 1, until it reaches 2.5% on January 1, 2019.

 

 

The Company’s regulatory total risk based capital ratio beginning June 30, 2016 was benefitted by the $48.7 million (net) subordinated debt issuance that closed in June 2016. The Company down-streamed approximately $40 million of those proceeds to the Bank as capital, benefitting all the Bank’s regulatory capital ratios at that time.

 

The Dividend Reinvestment Plan of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation, or the “Reinvestment Plan,” allows shareholders of the Company to purchase additional shares of common stock using cash dividends without payment of any brokerage commissions or other charges. Shareholders may also make voluntary cash payments of up to $200 thousand per quarter to purchase additional shares of common stock. Such optional cash purchases provided $22.5 million and $13.6 million of common equity in 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

The Company filed a shelf registration statement with the SEC in December 2016 that allows the Company to periodically offer and sell in one or more offerings, individually or in any combination, common stock, preferred stock and other non-equity securities not to exceed $100.0 million. The shelf registration provides the Company with flexibility in issuing capital instruments and more readily accessing the capital markets as needed to pursue future growth opportunities and ensure continued compliance with regulatory capital requirements.


Management believes the Company’s capital position and capital ratios are adequate. Further, Management believes the Company has sufficient common equity to support its planned growth and expansion for the immediate future. The Company continually assesses other potential sources of capital, in addition to common equity to support future growth.

 

LIQUIDITY : Liquidity refers to an institution’s ability to meet short-term requirements including funding of loans, deposit withdrawals and maturing obligations, as well as long-term obligations, including potential capital expenditures. The Company’s liquidity risk management is intended to ensure the Company has adequate funding and liquidity to support its assets across a range of market environments and conditions, including stressed conditions. Principal sources of liquidity include cash, temporary investments, securities available for sale, customer deposit inflows, loan repayments and secured borrowings. Other liquidity sources include loan sales and loan participations.

 

Management actively monitors and manages the Company’s liquidity position and believes it is sufficient to meet future needs. Cash and cash equivalents, including federal funds sold and interest-earning deposits, totaled $162.7 million at December 31, 2016. In addition, the Company had $305.4 million in securities designated as available for sale at December 31, 2016. These securities can be sold, or used as collateral for borrowings, in response to liquidity concerns. In addition the Company generates significant liquidity from scheduled and unscheduled principal repayments of loans and mortgage-backed securities.

 

A further source of liquidity is borrowing capacity. At December 31, 2016, unused secured borrowing commitments totaled $1.1 billion from the FHLB and $632 million from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

 

At December 31, 2016, customer deposits increased $496 million (principally interest-bearing checking and money market), when compared to

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December 31, 2015. Capital increased $49 million at December 31, 2016 when compared to December 31, 2015. This increase in customer deposits and capital primarily funded $22 million in maturing FHLB advances, an increase in loans of approximately $300 million, and an increase in investment securities of approximately $110 million.

 

Brokered interest-bearing demand (“overnight”) deposits declined $20 million to $180 million at December 31, 2016 compared to $200 million at December 31, 2015. The interest rate paid on these deposits allowed the Bank to fund operations at attractive rates and engage in interest rate swaps as part of its asset-liability interest rate risk management. As of December 31, 2016, the Company has transacted pay fixed, receive floating interest rate swaps totaling $180 million notional amount. The Company ensures ample available collateralized liquidity as a backup to these short term brokered deposits.

 

The Company has a Board-approved Contingency Funding Plan in place. This plan provides a framework for managing adverse liquidity stress and contingent sources of liquidity. The Company conducts liquidity stress testing on a regular basis to ensure sufficient liquidity in a stressed environment. Management believes the Company’s liquidity position and sources are adequate.

 

EFFECTS OF INFLATION AND CHANGING PRICES: The financial statements and related financial data presented herein have been prepared in terms of historical dollars without considering changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. Unlike most industrial companies, virtually all of the assets and liabilities of a financial institution are monetary in nature. As a result, interest rates have a more significant impact on a financial institution’s performance than do general levels of inflation.

 

PRIVATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT DIVISION: This division has served in the roles of executor and trustee while providing investment management, custodial, tax, retirement and financial services to its growing client base. This division also provides lending, residential mortgages and deposit services to high net worth individuals. Officers from the Private Wealth Management Division are available to provide wealth management, trust and investment services at the Bank’s corporate headquarters in Bedminster, at private banking locations in Morristown, Princeton and Teaneck, New Jersey and at the Bank’s subsidiary, PGB Trust & Investments of Delaware in Greenville, Delaware.

 

The following table presents certain key aspects of the Private Wealth Management Division’s performance for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

   Years Ended December 31,   Change 
(In thousands, except per share data)  2016   2015   2014   2016 v 2015   2015 v 2014 
                     
Total fee income  $18,240   $17,039   $15,242   $1,201   $2,038 
                          
Compensation and benefits (included in                         
   Operating Expenses section above)   8,540    8,145    7,562    395    583 
                          
Other operating expense (included in                         
  Operating Expenses section above)   6,286    5,811    5,170    475    641 
                          
Assets under administration                         
  (market value)   3.7 billion    3.3 billion    3.0 billion           

 

2016 compared to 2015

 

The market value of assets under administration at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $3.7 billion and $3.3 billion, respectively, an increase of 11 percent over the prior year. This includes assets held at Peapack-Gladstone Bank at year end 2016 and 2015 of $334.4 million and $237.7 million, respectively.

 

Wealth management fees increased $1.2 million or 7 percent to $18.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 from $17.0 million in 2015. The growth in fee income was due to several factors, including continued healthy new business results, somewhat offset by normal levels of disbursements and outflows.

 

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The Company continues to incorporate wealth management into conversations it has with the Company’s clients, across business lines. The Company has expanded its wealth management team and will continue to grow its team and expand its products, services and advice delivered to clients.

 

Private Wealth Management Division expenses increased to $14.8 million compared to $14.0 million for the same period in 2015, an increase of $870 thousand, or 6 percent. Other operating expenses increased $475 thousand or 8 percent to $6.3 million for the year ended 2016 when compared to the same period in 2015. Compensation and benefits expense totaled $8.5 million and $8.1 million for the years ended 2016 and 2015, respectively, increasing $395 thousand or 5 percent. Expenses in 2016 include the expenses of the Wealth Management Consultants Division for a full year, which was acquired in May 2015. Remaining expenses are in line with the Company’s Strategic Plan, particularly the hiring of key management and revenue-producing personnel. Revenue and profitability related to the new personnel will generally lag expenses by several quarters.

 

The Private Wealth Management Division currently generates adequate revenue to support the salaries, benefits and other expenses of the Division; however, Management believes that the Bank generates adequate liquidity to support the expenses of the Division should it be necessary.

 

2015 compared to 2014

 

The market value of assets under administration at December 31, 2015 and 2014 was $3.3 billion and $3.0 billion, respectively, an increase of 10 percent over the prior year. This includes assets held at Peapack-Gladstone Bank at year end 2015 and 2014 of $237.7 million and $139.1 million, respectively. The increase was the result of the acquisition of the Wealth Management Consultants, partially offset by declining market activity in the fourth quarter of 2015.

 

Wealth management fees increased $2.0 million or 13 percent to $17.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 from $15.2 million in 2014. The increase reflects increased relationships, a greater mix of higher margin business and an improvement in the market value of assets under management.

 

Private Wealth Management Division expenses increased to $14.0 million compared to $12.7 million for the same period in 2014, an increase of $1.2 million, or 10 percent. Other operating expenses increased $641 thousand or 12 percent to $5.8 for the year ended 2015 when compared to the same period in 2014. Salaries and benefits expense totaled $8.1 million and $7.6 million for the years ended 2015 and 2014, respectively, increasing $583 thousand or 8 percent. Expenses increased due to strategic hiring in line with the Company’s Strategic Plan, as well as growth in the business.

 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: This Annual Report on Form 10-K, both in the foregoing discussion and elsewhere, contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are not historical facts and include expressions about Management’s confidence and strategies and Management’s expectations about new and existing programs and products, investments, relationships, opportunities and market conditions. These statements may be identified by such forward-looking terminology as “expect,” “look,” “believe,” “anticipate,”, “may,” or similar statements or variations of such terms. Actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:

 

·inability to successfully grow our business and implement our Strategic Plan, including an inability to generate revenues to offset the increased personnel and other costs related to the Strategic Plan;
·the impact of anticipated higher operating expenses in 2017 and beyond;
·inability to manage our growth;
·inability to successfully integrate our expanded employee base;
·a continued or unexpected decline in the economy, in particular in our New Jersey and New York market areas;
·declines in our net interest margin caused by the low interest rate environment and highly competitive market;
·declines in value in our investment portfolio;
·higher than expected increases in our allowance for loan losses;
·higher than expected increases in loan losses or in the level of nonperforming loans;
·unexpected changes in interest rates;
·a continued or unexpected decline in real estate values within our market areas;

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·legislative and regulatory actions (including the impact of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, Basel III and related regulations) subject us to additional regulatory oversight which may result in increased compliance costs;
·successful cyberattacks against our IT infrastructure and that of our IT providers;
·higher than expected FDIC insurance premiums;
·adverse weather conditions;
·inability to successfully generate new business in new geographic markets;
·inability to execute upon new business initiatives;
·lack of liquidity to fund our various cash obligations;
·reduction in our lower-cost funding sources;
·our inability to adapt to technological changes;
·claims and litigation pertaining to fiduciary responsibility, environmental laws and other matters; and
·other unexpected material adverse changes in our operations or earnings.

 

The Company undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the Company’s expectations. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, the Company cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements.

 

Item 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

The Company’s Asset/Liability Committee (ALCO) is responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring asset/liability management strategies and advising the Board of Directors on such strategies, as well as the related level of interest rate risk. In this regard, interest rate risk simulation models are prepared on a quarterly basis. These models have the ability to demonstrate balance sheet gaps and predict changes to net interest income and economic/market value of portfolio equity under various interest rate scenarios. In addition, these models, as well as ALCO processes and reporting, are subject to annual independent third-party review.

 

ALCO is generally authorized to manage interest rate risk through the management of capital, cash flows and duration of assets and liabilities, including sales and purchases of assets, as well as additions of wholesale borrowings and other sources of medium/longer term funding. ALCO is authorized to engage in interest rate swaps as a means of extending the duration of shorter term liabilities.

 

The following strategies are among those used to manage interest rate risk:

 

·Actively market commercial and industrial (C&I) loan originations, which tend to have adjustable rate features, and which generate customer relationships that can result in higher core deposit accounts;
·Actively market commercial mortgage loan originations, which tend to have shorter terms and higher interest rates than residential mortgage loans, and which generate customer relationships that can result in higher core deposit accounts;
·Manage growth in the residential mortgage portfolio to adjustable-rate, shorter-term and/or “relationship” loans that result in core deposit relationships;
·Actively market core deposit relationships, which are generally longer duration liabilities;
·Utilize medium to longer term certificates of deposit and/or wholesale borrowings to extend liability duration;
·Utilize interest rate swaps to extend liability duration;
·Utilize a loan level / back to back interest rate swap program, which converts a borrower’s fixed rate loan to adjustable rate for the Company;
·Closely monitor and actively manage the investment portfolio, including management of duration, prepayment and interest rate risk;
·Maintain adequate levels of capital; and
·Utilize loan sales and/or loan participations.

 

52 

The interest rate swap program is administered by ALCO and follows procedures and documentation in accordance with regulatory guidance and standards as set forth in ASC 815 for cash flow hedges. The program incorporates pre-purchase analysis, liability designation, sensitivity analysis, correlation analysis, daily mark-to-market analysis and collateral posting as required. The Board is advised of all swap activity. In all of these swaps, the Company is receiving floating and paying fixed interest rates with total notional value of $180.0 million.

 

In addition, during the second quarter of 2015, the Company initiated a loan level / back-to-back swap program in support of its commercial lending business. Pursuant to this program, the Company extends a floating rate loan and executes a floating to fixed swap with the borrower. At the same time, the Company executes with a third party swap, the terms of which fully offset the fixed exposure and result in a final floating rate exposure for the Company. As of December 31, 2016, $126.8 million of notional value in swaps were executed and outstanding with borrowers under this program.

 

As noted above, ALCO uses simulation modeling to analyze the Company’s net interest income sensitivity, as well as the Company’s economic value of portfolio equity under various interest rate scenarios. The model is based on the actual maturity and repricing characteristics of rate sensitive assets and liabilities. The model incorporates certain prepayment and interest rate assumptions, which management believes to be reasonable as of December 31, 2016. The model assumes changes in interest rates without any proactive change in the balance sheet by management. In the model, the forecasted shape of the yield curve remained static as of December 31, 2016.

 

In an immediate and sustained 200 basis point increase in market rates at December 31, 2016, net interest income for year 1 would increase approximately 5.6 percent, when compared to a flat interest rate scenario. In year 2 this sensitivity improves to an increase of 8.3 percent, when compared to a flat interest rate scenario.

 

In an immediate and sustained 100 basis point decrease in market rates at December 31, 2016, net interest income would decline approximately 5.2 percent for year 1 and 6.7 percent for year 2, compared to a flat interest rate scenario.

 

The table below shows the estimated changes in the Company’s economic value of portfolio equity (“EVPE”) that would result from an immediate parallel change in the market interest rates at December 31, 2016.

 

   Estimated Increase/   EVPE as a Percentage of 
(Dollars in thousands)  Decrease in EVPE   Present Value of Assets (2) 
Change In                    
Interest                    
Rates  Estimated           EVPE   Increase/(Decrease) 
(Basis Points)  EVPE (1)   Amount   Percent   Ratio (3)   (basis points) 
+200  $454,124   $(3,241)   (0.71)%   12.38%   50 
+100   463,296    5,931    1.30    12.32    44 
Flat interest rates   457,365            11.88     
-100   442,325    (15,040)   (3.29)   11.25    (63)

 

(1) EVPE is the discounted present value of expected cash flows from assets and liabilities.
(2) Present value of assets represents the discounted present value of incoming cash flows on interest-earning assets.
(3) EVPE ratio represents EVPE divided by the present value of assets.

 

Certain shortcomings are inherent in the methodologies used in determining interest rate risk. Simulation modeling requires making certain assumptions that may or may not reflect the manner in which actual yields and costs respond to changes in market interest rates. In this regard, the modeling assumes that the composition of our interest-sensitive assets and liabilities existing at the beginning of a period remains constant over the period being measured and assumes that a particular change in interest rates is reflected uniformly across the yield curve regardless of the duration or repricing of specific assets and liabilities. Accordingly, although the information provides an indication of our interest rate risk exposure at a particular point in time, such measurements are not intended to and do not provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes in market interest rates on our net interest income and will differ from actual results.

 

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Model simulation results indicate the Company is slightly asset sensitive, which indicates the Company’s net interest income should improve slightly in a rising rate environment. Management believes the Company’s interest rate risk position is reasonable.

 

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Item 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

Audit Committee

Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation

Bedminster, New Jersey

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of condition of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation ( the “Company”) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2016. We also have audited Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in 2013 Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation’s Management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting located in Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by Management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

 

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of Management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in 2013 Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

 

  /s/ Crowe Horwath LLP

 

Livingston, New Jersey

March 14, 2017

55 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONDITION

   December 31, 
(In thousands, except share data)  2016   2015 
ASSETS          
Cash and due from banks  $24,580   $11,550 
Federal funds sold   101    101 
Interest-earning deposits   138,010    58,509 
  Total cash and cash equivalents   162,691    70,160 
Securities available for sale   305,388    195,630 
FHLB and FRB stock, at cost   13,813    13,984 
Loans held for sale, at fair value   1,200    1,558 
Loans held for sale, at lower of cost or fair value   388    82,200 
Loans   3,312,144    2,913,242 
  Less:  allowance for loan losses   32,208    25,856 
  Net loans   3,279,936    2,887,386 
Premises and equipment   30,371    30,246 
Other real estate owned   534    563 
Accrued interest receivable   8,153    6,820 
Bank owned life insurance   43,806    42,885 
Deferred tax assets, net   15,320    15,582 
Goodwill   1,573    1,573 
Intangibles   1,584    1,708 
Other assets   13,876    14,364 
  Total assets  $3,878,633   $3,364,659 
LIABILITIES          
Deposits:          
  Noninterest-bearing demand deposits  $489,485   $419,887 
  Interest-bearing deposits:          
    Checking   1,023,081    861,697 
    Savings   120,056    115,007 
    Money market accounts   1,048,494    810,709 
    Certificates of deposit   457,000    434,450 
Subtotal deposits   3,138,116    2,641,750 
    Interest-bearing demand – Brokered   180,000    200,000 
    Certificates of deposit - Brokered   93,721    93,720 
Total deposits   3,411,837    2,935,470 
Overnight borrowings       40,700 
Federal home loan bank advances   61,795    83,692 
Capital lease obligation   9,693    10,222 
Subordinated debt, net   48,764     
Accrued expenses and other liabilities   22,334    18,899 
  Total liabilities   3,554,423    3,088,983 
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
Preferred stock (no par value; authorized 500,000 shares)        
Common stock (no par value; stated value $0.83 per share;          
  authorized 21,000,000 shares; issued shares, 17,666,173 at          
  December 31, 2016 and 16,476,297 at December 31, 2015;          
  outstanding shares, 17,257,995 at December 31, 2016 and          
  16,068,119 at December 31, 2015)   14,717    13,717 
Surplus   238,708    213,203 
Treasury stock at cost (408,178 shares at December 31, 2016 and 2015)   (8,988)   (8,988)
Retained earnings   81,304    58,123 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (1,531)   (379)
    Total shareholders’ equity   324,210    275,676 
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity  $3,878,633   $3,364,659 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

56 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(In thousands, except per share data)  2016   2015   2014 
INTEREST INCOME               
Loans, including fees  $111,971   $94,339   $70,468 
Securities available for sale:               
  Taxable   4,018    4,079    4,156 
  Tax-exempt   508    520    703 
Interest-earning deposits   551    204    248 
   Total interest income   117,048    99,142    75,575 
INTEREST EXPENSE               
Checking accounts   2,146    1,495    781 
Savings and money market accounts   3,244    2,111    1,671 
Certificates of deposit   6,270    4,411    1,521 
Overnight and short-term borrowings   316    107    48 
Federal Home Loan Bank advances   1,448    1,495    1,485 
Capital lease obligation   478    503    483 
Subordinated debt   1,696         
   Subtotal – interest expense   15,598    10,122    5,989 
Interest-bearing demand - brokered   3,020    2,534    307 
Interest on certificates of deposits – brokered   1,995    2,034    1,385 
  Total interest expense   20,613    14,690    7,681 
   Net interest income before provision for loan losses   96,435    84,452    67,894 
Provision for loan losses   7,500    7,100    4,875 
   Net interest income after provision for loan losses   88,935    77,352    63,019 
OTHER INCOME               
Wealth management fee income   18,240    17,039    15,242 
Service charges and fees   3,252    3,323    3,111 
Bank owned life insurance   1,407    1,297    1,092 
Gain on loans held for sale at fair value   1,010    528    439 
Gain on loans held for sale at lower of cost or fair value   1,233        166 
Fee income related to loan level, back-to-back swaps   1,638    373     
Gain on sale of SBA loans   623    7     
Other income   1,396    620    497 
Securities gains, net   119    527    260 
  Total other income   28,918    23,714    20,807 
OPERATING EXPENSES               
Compensation and employee benefits   45,003    40,278    36,241 
Premises and equipment   11,245    11,569    9,963 
Other operating expenses   18,864    17,079    13,336 
  Total operating expenses   75,112    68,926    59,540 
Income before income tax expense   42,741    32,140    24,286 
Income tax expense   16,264    12,168    9,396 
  Net income  $26,477   $19,972   $14,890 
                
EARNINGS PER SHARE               
  Basic  $1.62   $1.31   $1.23 
  Diluted   1.60    1.29    1.22 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements  

57 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
   2016   2015   2014 
(Dollars in thousands)            
Net income  $26,477   $19,972   $14,890 
Other comprehensive (loss)/income:               
   Unrealized (losses) gains on available for sale securities:               
      Unrealized holding (losses) gains arising during the period   (2,310)   (959)   2,378 
                
     Less:  Reclassification adjustment for net gains               
       included in net income   (119)   (527)   (260)
    (2,429)   (1,486)   2,118 
  Tax effect   930    573    (820)
Net of tax   (1,499)   (913)   1,298 
                
Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge               
    Unrealized holding gain (loss)   587    (1,162)   (169)
    Reclassification adjustment for losses               
       included in net income            
    587    (1,162)   (169)
    Tax effect   (240)   475    69 
Net of tax   347    (687)   (100)
                
Total other comprehensive (loss)/income   (1,152)   (1,600)   1,198 
                
Total comprehensive income  $25,325   $18,372   $16,088 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements      

58 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

                       Accumulated Other     
   Preferred   Common       Treasury   Retained   Comprehensive     
(In thousands, except per share data)  Stock   Stock   Surplus   Stock   Earnings   Income   Total 
Balance at January 1, 2014                                   
11,788,517 common shares outstanding  $   $10,148   $140,699   $(8,988)  $28,775   $23   $170,657 
Net income 2014                       14,890         14,890 
Accumulated                                   
  other comprehensive income                            1,198    1,198 
Issuance of restricted stock, net of                                   
   forfeitures, 145,747 shares        121    (121)                   
Amortization of restricted stock             1,475                   1,475 
Cash dividends declared on common stock                                   
  ($0.20 per share)                       (2,414)        (2,414)
Common stock option expense             234                   234 
Common stock options exercised and                                   
   related tax benefits, 14,702 shares        14    160                   174 
Sales of shares (dividend reinvestment                                   
  program), 416,057 shares        347    7,082                   7,429 
Issuance of shares, Profit Sharing Plan,                                   
  3,781 shares        3    67                   70 
Issuance of shares for Employee Stock                                   
  Purchase Plan, 10,698 shares        8    188                   196 
Issuance of stock offering net of costs,                                   
  2,776,215 shares        2,313    46,045                   48,358 
Balance at December 31, 2014                                   
15,155,717 common shares outstanding  $   $12,954   $195,829   $(8,988)  $41,251   $1,221   $242,267 
Net Income 2015                       19,972         19,972 
Accumulated                                   
  other comprehensive loss                            (1,600)   (1,600)
Issuance of restricted stock, net of                                   
   forfeitures, 160,457 shares        134    (134)                   
Restricted stock repurchased on vesting                                   
   to pay taxes, (3,776) shares        (3)   (78)                  (81)
Amortization of restricted stock             1,621                   1,621 
Cash dividends declared on common stock                                   
  ($0.20 per share)                       (3,100)        (3,100)
Common stock option expense             219                   219 
Common stock options exercised, 18,891                                   
   net of 7,506 shares used to exercise and                                   
   related tax benefits, 11,385 shares        11    75                   86 
Sales of shares (dividend reinvestment                                   
  program), 665,654 shares        555    13,093                   13,648 
Issuance of shares for Employee Stock                                   
  Purchase Plan, 30,766 shares        26    618                   644 
Issuance of common stock for                                   
   For acquisition, 47,916 shares        40    960                   1,000 
Issuance of warrants             1,000                   1,000 
Balance at December 31, 2015                                   
16,068,119 common shares outstanding  $   $13,717   $213,203   $(8,988)  $58,123   $(379)  $275,676 
Net income 2016                       26,477         26,477 
Accumulated other                                   
   comprehensive loss                            (1,152)   (1,152)
Restricted stock                                   
   forfeitures, (12,133) shares        (10)   10                    
Restricted stock repurchased on vesting                                   
   to pay taxes, (29,088) shares        (24)   (530)                  (554)
Amortization of restricted stock awards/units             2,836                   2,836 
Cash dividends declared on common stock                                   
   ($0.20 per share)                       (3,296)        (3,296)
Common stock option expense             56                   56 
Common stock options exercised, 70,632                                   
   net of 9,723 used to exercise and                                   
   related taxes benefits, 60,909 shares        59    1,010                   1,069 
Sales of shares (Dividend Reinvestment                                   
   Program), 1,137,998 shares        948    21,513                   22,461 
Issuance of shares for Employee Stock                                   
   Purchase plan, 32,190 shares        27    610                   637 
Balance at December, 31 2016                                   
   17,257,995 common shares outstanding  $   $14,717   $238,708   $(8,988)  $81,304   $(1,531) $324,210 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Operating activities:               
Net income  $26,477   $19,972   $14,890 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash               
  provided by operating activities:               
Depreciation   3,093    3,921    2,993 
Amortization of premium and accretion of discount on               
  securities, net   1,478    1,664    1,533 
Amortization of restricted stock   2,836    1,621    1,475 
Amortization of intangible assets   123    82     
Amortization of subordinated debt costs   71         
Provision for loan losses   7,500    7,100    4,875 
Valuation allowance on other real estate owned       250    400 
Stock-based compensation and employee stock purchase               
  plan expense   156    319    283 
Deferred tax expense/(benefit)   952    (4,043)   (1,480)
Gains on sale of securities, available for sale, net   (119)   (527)   (260)
Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale (1)   72,477    34,543    30,585 
Loans originated for sale (1)   (70,874)   (34,734)   (28,985)
Gain on loans held for sale (1)   (1,633)   (535)   (438)
Gain on sale of loans held for sale at lower of cost or fair value   (1,233)       (166)
Gain on OREO sold   (5)       (139)
Loss/(gain) on disposal of premises and equipment       15    (9)
Gain on death benefit       (285)    
Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance   (921)   (643)   (752)
Increase in accrued interest receivable   (1,333)   (1,449)   (1,285)
Decrease/(increase) in other assets   945    (476)   2,590 
Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities   2,936    3,511    1,153 
  Net cash provided by operating activities   42,926    30,306    27,263 
Investing activities:               
Maturities and calls of securities available for sale   67,999    96,194    80,382 
Redemptions for FHLB & FRB stock   61,606    48,627    29,722 
Sales of securities available for sale   5,499    46,254    35,411 
Purchase of securities available for sale   (187,043)   (8,049)   (179,153)
Purchase of FHLB & FRB stock   (61,435)   (51,018)   (31,283)
Sales of whole loans held for sale at lower of cost or fair               
  value   201,681        68,022 
Net increase in loans, net of participations sold   (518,832)   (746,132)   (745,434)
Sales of other real estate   568    744    1,100 
Purchases of premises and equipment   (3,218)   (1,924)   (3,941)
Disposal of premises and equipment           15 
Purchase of wealth management company       (800)    
Proceeds from death benefit       677     
Purchase of life insurance       (10,000)    
  Net cash used in investing activities   (433,175)   (625,427)   (745,159)

 

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   Years Ended December 31, 
(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Financing activities:            
Net increase in deposits   476,367    636,777    651,443 
Net decrease in overnight borrowings   (40,700)   (13,900)   (300)
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank advances           9,000 
Repayments of FHLB advances   (21,897)        
Dividends paid on common stock   (3,296)   (3,100)   (2,414)
Exercise of stock options, net stock swaps   1,069    86    174 
Restricted stock repurchased on vesting to pay taxes   (554)   (81)    
Proceeds from issuance of subordinated debt   48,693         
Net proceeds, rights offering           48,358 
Sale of common shares (Dividend Reinvestment Program)   22,461    13,648    7,429 
Purchase of shares of profit sharing plan           70 
Issuance of shares for employee stock purchase plan   637    644    196 
  Net cash provided by financing activities   482,780    634,074    713,956 
  Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   92,531    38,953    (3,940)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year   70,160    31,207    35,147 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year  $162,691   $70,160   $31,207 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information               

 

Cash paid during the year for:

               
  Interest  $19,965   $13,726   $7,042 
  Income taxes   14,870    15,572    7,747 
Transfer of loans to loans held for sale   182,694    286,519    67,855 
Transfer of loans held for sale to loan portfolio   30,121         
Transfer of loans to other real estate owned   534    233    744 
Increase in capital lease           2,326 
Acquisition (Note 18)               
  Goodwill       1,010     
  Customer relationship & other intangibles       1,790     

 

(1)Includes mortgage loans originated with the intent to sell which are carried at fair value. In addition, this includes the guaranteed portion of SBA loans which are carried at the lower of cost or fair value.

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1.       SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Principles of Consolidation and Organization: The consolidated financial statements of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation (the “Company”) are prepared on the accrual basis and include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Peapack-Gladstone Bank (the “Bank”). The consolidated statements also include the Bank’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, PGB Trust & Investments of Delaware and Peapack-Gladstone Mortgage Group, Inc. and Peapack-Gladstone Mortgage Group’s wholly-owned subsidiary, PG Investment Company of Delaware, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Peapack-Gladstone Realty, Inc., a New Jersey Real Estate Investment Company. While the following footnotes include the collective results of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation and Peapack-Gladstone Bank, these footnotes primarily reflect the Bank’s and its subsidiaries’ activities. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated from the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

 

Business: Peapack-Gladstone Bank, a subsidiary of the Company, is a commercial bank that provides innovative private banking services to businesses, non-profits and consumers which help them to establish, maintain and expand their legacy. Wealth management services are also provided through its subsidiary, PGB Trust & Investments of Delaware. The Bank is subject to competition from other financial institutions, is regulated by certain federal and state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities.

 

Basis of Financial Statement Presentation: The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. In preparing the financial statements, Management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the statement of condition and revenues and expenses for that period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Segment Information: The Company’s business is conducted through its banking subsidiary and involves the delivery of loan and deposit products and wealth management services to customers. Management uses certain methodologies to allocate income and expense to the business segments.

 

The Banking segment includes commercial, commercial real estate, multifamily, residential and consumer lending activities; deposit generation; operation of ATMs; telephone and internet banking services; merchant credit card services and customer support sales.

 

Peapack-Gladstone Bank’s Private Wealth Management Division includes asset management services provided for individuals and institutions; personal trust services, including services as executor, trustee, administrator, custodian and guardian; corporate trust services including services as trustee for pension and profit sharing plans; and other financial planning and advisory services. This segment also includes the activity from the Delaware subsidiary. Income is recognized as earned.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents: For purposes of the statements of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, interest-earning deposits and federal funds sold. Generally, federal funds are sold for one-day periods. Cash equivalents are of original maturities of 90 days or less. Net cash flows are reported for customer loan and deposit transactions and overnight borrowings.

 

Interest-Earning Deposits in Other Financial Institutions: Interest-earning deposits in other financial institutions mature within one year and are carried at cost.

 

Securities: All securities are classified as available for sale and are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax.

 

Interest income includes amortization of purchase premiums and discounts. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized on the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments, except for mortgage-backed securities where prepayments are anticipated. Gains and losses on sales are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method.

 

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Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation. For securities in an unrealized loss position, Management considers the extent and duration of the unrealized loss and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. Management also assesses whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. For debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the amount of impairment is split into two components as follows: 1) other-than-temporary impairment related to credit loss, which must be recognized in the income statement and 2) other-than-temporary impairment related to other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis. For equity securities, the entire amount of impairment is recognized through earnings.

 

Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) and Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) Stock: The Bank is a member of the FHLB system. Members are required to own a certain amount of FHLB stock, based on the level of borrowings and other factors. FHLB stock is carried at cost, classified as a restricted security and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Dividends are reported as income.

 

The Bank is also a member of the Federal Reserve Bank and required to own a certain amount of FRB stock. FRB stock is carried at cost and classified as a restricted security. Dividends are reported as income.

 

Loans Held for Sale: Mortgage loans originated with the intent to sell in the secondary market are carried at fair value, as determined by outstanding commitments from investors.

 

Mortgage loans held for sale are generally sold with servicing rights released; therefore, no servicing rights are recorded. Gains and losses on sales of mortgage loans, shown as gain on sale of loans on the Statement of Income, are based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related loan sold.

 

SBA loans originated with the intent to sell in the secondary market are carried at the lower of cost or fair value. SBA loans are generally sold with the servicing rights retained. Gains and losses on the sale of SBA loans are based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related loan sold. Total SBA loans serviced totaled $5.8 million and $236 thousand as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. As of December 31, 2016, SBA loans held for sale totaled $388 thousand. There were no SBA loans held for sale as of December 31, 2015. The servicing asset recorded was not material.

 

Loans originated with the intent to hold and subsequently transferred to loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or fair value. These are loans that the Company no longer has the intent to hold for the foreseeable future.

 

Loans: Loans that Management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity are stated at the principal amount outstanding. Interest on loans is recognized based upon the principal amount outstanding. Loans are stated at face value, less purchased premium and discounts and net deferred fees. Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and recognized over the life of the loan as an adjustment, on a level-yield method, to the loan’s yield. The definition of recorded investment in loans includes accrued interest receivable and deferred fees/cost, however, for the Company’s loan disclosures, accrued interest and deferred fees/cost was excluded as the impact was not material.

 

Loans are considered past due when they are not paid in accordance with contractual terms. The accrual of income on loans, including impaired loans, is discontinued if, in the opinion of Management, principal or interest is not likely to be paid in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement, or when principal or interest is past due 90 days or more and collateral, if any, is insufficient to cover principal and interest. All interest accrued but not received for loans placed on nonaccrual, is reversed against interest income. Payments received on nonaccrual loans are recorded as principal payments. A nonaccrual loan is returned to accrual status only when interest and principal payments are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured, generally when the Bank receives contractual payments for a minimum of six months. Commercial loans are generally charged off after an analysis is completed which indicates that collectability of the full principal balance is in doubt. Consumer loans are generally charged off after they become 120 days past due. Subsequent payments are credited to income only if collection of principal is not in doubt. If principal and interest payments are brought contractually current and future collectability is reasonably assured, loans are returned to accrual status. Nonaccrual mortgage loans are generally charged off when the value of the underlying collateral does not cover the outstanding

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principal balance. The majority of the Company’s loans are secured by real estate in the State of New Jersey and New York.

 

Allowance for Loan Losses: The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for incurred credit losses that are deemed to be probable. When Management is reasonably certain that a loan balance is not fully collectable an analysis is completed and either a full or partial charge off is recorded against the allowance. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. Management estimates the allowance balance required using past loan loss experience, the nature and volume of the portfolio, information about specific borrower situations, estimated collateral values, economic conditions and other factors. Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in Management’s judgment, should be charged off.

 

The allowance consists of specific and general components. The specific component of the allowance relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired.

 

A loan is impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by Management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed.

 

Loans are individually evaluated for impairment when they are classified as substandard by Management. If a loan is considered impaired, a portion of the allowance is allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate or at the fair value of collateral less estimated disposition costs if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. If a residential mortgage is placed on nonaccrual status and is in the process of collection, such as through a foreclosure action, then it is evaluated for impairment on an individual basis and the loan is reported, net, at the fair value of the collateral less estimated disposition costs.

 

A troubled debt restructuring is a modified loan with concessions made by the lender to a borrower who is experiencing financial difficulty. Troubled debt restructurings are impaired and are measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception. If a troubled debt restructuring is considered to be a collateral dependent loan, the loan is reported, net, at the fair value of the collateral, less estimated disposition costs. For troubled debt restructurings that subsequently default, the Company determines the amount of reserve in accordance with the accounting policy for the allowance for loan losses.

 

The general component of the allowance covers non-impaired loans and is based primarily on the Bank’s historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. The historical loss experience is determined by portfolio segment and is based on the actual loss history experience by the Company on a weighted average basis over the previous three years. This actual loss experience is adjusted by other qualitative factors based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These economic factors include consideration of the following: levels of and trends in delinquencies and impaired loans; effects of any changes in risk selection and underwriting standards; other changes in lending policies, procedures and practices; experience, ability and depth of lending management and other relevant staff; national and local economic trends and conditions; industry conditions; and effects of changes in credit concentrations. For loans that are graded as non-impaired, the Company allocates a higher general reserve percentage then pass-rated loans using a multiple that is calculated annually through a migration analysis. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the multiple was 4.0 times and 5.0 times for non-impaired substandard loans and 2.0 times and 2.5 times for non-impaired special mention loans.

 

In determining an appropriate amount for the allowance, the Bank segments and evaluates the loan portfolio based on Federal call report codes, which are based on collateral. The following portfolio classes have been identified:

 

Primary Residential Mortgages. The Bank originates one to four family residential mortgage loans in the Tri-State area (New York, New Jersey and Connecticut), Pennsylvania and Florida. Loans are secured by first liens on the primary residence or investment property. Primary risk characteristics associated with residential mortgage loans typically involve major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income; unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic

64 

events; and divorce or death. In addition, residential mortgage loans that have adjustable rates could expose the borrower to higher debt service requirements in a rising interest rate environment. Further, real estate value could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential exposure for the Bank.

 

Home Equity Lines of Credit. The Bank provides revolving lines of credit against one to four family residences in the Tri-State area. Primary risk characteristics associated with home equity lines of credit typically involve major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income; unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic events; and divorce or death. In addition, home equity lines of credit typically are made with variable or floating interest rates, such as the Prime Rate, which could expose the borrower to higher debt service requirements in a rising interest rate environment. Further, real estate value could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential exposure for the Bank.

 

Junior Lien Loan on Residence. The Bank provides junior lien loans (“JLL”) against one to four family properties in the Tri-State area. JLLs can be either in the form of an amortizing home equity loan or a revolving home equity line of credit. These loans are subordinate to a first mortgage which may be from another lending institution. Primary risk characteristics associated with JLLs typically involve major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income; unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic events; and divorce or death. Further, real estate value could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential exposure for the Bank.

 

Multifamily and Commercial Real Estate Loans. The Bank provides mortgage loans for multifamily properties (i.e. buildings which have five or more residential units) and other commercial real estate that is either owner occupied or managed as an investment property (non-owner occupied) in the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania. Commercial real estate properties primarily include retail buildings/shopping centers, hotels, office/medical buildings and industrial/warehouse space. Some properties are considered “mixed use” as they are a combination of building types, such as a building with retail space on the ground floor and either residential apartments or office suites on the upper floors. Multifamily loans are expected to be repaid from the cash flow of the underlying property so the collective amount of rents must be sufficient to cover all operating expenses, property management and maintenance, taxes and debt service. Increases in vacancy rates, interest rates or other changes in general economic conditions can all have an impact on the borrower and their ability to repay the loan. Commercial real estate loans are generally considered to have a higher degree of credit risk than multifamily loans as they may be dependent on the ongoing success and operating viability of a fewer number of tenants who are occupying the property and who may have a greater degree of exposure to economic conditions.

 

Commercial and Industrial Loans. The Bank provides lines of credit and term loans to operating companies for business purposes. The loans are generally secured by business assets such as accounts receivable, inventory, business vehicles and equipment. In addition, these loans often include commercial real estate as collateral to strengthen the Bank’s position and further mitigate risk. Commercial and industrial loans are typically repaid first by the cash flow generated by the borrower’s business operation. The primary risk characteristics are specific to the underlying business and its ability to generate sustainable profitability and resulting positive cash flow. Factors that may influence a business’s profitability include, but are not limited to, demand for its products or services, quality and depth of management, degree of competition, regulatory changes, and general economic conditions. Commercial and industrial loans are generally secured by business assets; however, the ability of the Bank to foreclose and realize sufficient value from the assets is often highly uncertain. To mitigate the risk characteristics of commercial and industrial loans, the Bank will often require more frequent reporting requirements from the borrower in order to better monitor its business performance.

 

Agricultural Production. These are loans to finance agricultural production and other loans to farmers. The Bank does not currently engage in this type of lending.

 

Commercial Construction. The Bank has discontinued its commercial construction activity. Dollar amounts within this segment are immaterial.

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Consumer and Other. These are loans to individuals for household, family and other personal expenditures as well as obligations of states and political subdivisions in the U.S. This also represents all other loans that cannot be categorized in any of the previous mentioned loan segments.

 

Premises and Equipment: Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are states at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation charges are computed using the straight-line method. Equipment and other fixed assets are depreciated over the estimated useful lives, which range from three to ten years. Premises are depreciated over the estimated useful life of 40 years, while leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the term of the lease. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. The cost of major renewals and improvements are capitalized. Gains or losses realized on routine dispositions are recorded as other income or other expense.

 

Other Real Estate Owned (OREO): OREO acquired through foreclosure on loans secured by real estate, is initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell. Physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan occurs when legal title is obtained upon completion of foreclosure or when the borrower conveys all interest in the property to satisfy the loan through completion of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar legal agreement. The assets are subsequently accounted for at the lower of cost or fair value, as established by a current appraisal, less estimated costs to sell. Any write-downs at the date of foreclosure are charged to the allowance for loan losses. Expenses incurred to maintain these properties, losses resulting from write-downs after the date of foreclosure, and realized gains and losses upon sale of the properties are included in other noninterest expense and other noninterest income, as appropriate.

 

Bank Owned Life Insurance (BOLI): The Bank has purchased life insurance policies on certain key executives. BOLI is recorded at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the balance sheet date, which is the cash surrender value adjusted for other charges or other amounts due that are probable at settlement.

 

Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments: Financial instruments include off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.

 

Derivatives: At the inception of a derivative contract, the Company designates the derivative as one of three types based on the Company’s intentions and belief as to likely effectiveness as a hedge. These three types are (1) a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or of an unrecognized firm commitment (“fair value hedge”), (2) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash flow hedge”), or (3) an instrument with no hedging designation . For a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative, as well as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item, are recognized in current earnings as fair values change. For a cash flow hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative is reported in other comprehensive income and is reclassified into earnings in the same periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. For both types of hedges, changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not highly effective in hedging the changes in fair value or expected cash flows of the hedged item are recognized immediately in current earnings. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported currently in earnings, as non-interest income.

 

Net cash settlements on derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting are recorded in interest income or interest expense, based on the item being hedged. Net cash settlements on derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported in non-interest income. Cash flows on hedges are classified in the cash flow statement the same as the cash flows of the items being hedged.

 

The Company formally documents the relationship between derivatives and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and the strategy for undertaking hedge transactions at the inception of the hedging relationship. This documentation includes linking fair value or cash flow hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet or to specific firm commitments or forecasted transactions. The Company discontinues hedge accounting when it determines that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item, the derivative is settled or terminates, a hedged forecasted transaction is no longer probable, a hedged firm commitment is no longer firm, or treatment of the derivative as a hedge is no longer appropriate or intended.

 

When hedge accounting is discontinued, subsequent changes in fair value of the derivative are recorded as non-interest income. When a cash flow hedge is discontinued but the hedged cash flows or forecasted transactions are still expected to

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occur, gains or losses that were accumulated in other comprehensive income are amortized into earnings over the same periods which the hedged transactions will affect earnings.

 

Income Taxes: The Company files a consolidated Federal income tax return. Separate state income tax returns are filed for each subsidiary based on current laws and regulations.

 

The Company recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in its financial statements or tax returns. The measurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities is based on the enacted tax rates. Such tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effect of a change in tax rates in the period of enactment.

 

The Company recognizes a tax position as a benefit only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the “more likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded.

 

The Company is no longer subject to examination by the U.S. Federal tax authorities for years prior to 2013 or by state and local tax authorities for years prior to 2012.

 

The Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

 

Benefit Plans: The Company has a 401(K) profit-sharing and investment plan, which covers substantially all salaried employees over the age of 21 with at least 12 months of service.

 

Stock-Based Compensation: Compensation cost is recognized for stock options and restricted stock awards/units issued to employees and non-employee directors, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the fair value of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant is used for restricted stock awards/units. Compensation expense is recognized over the required service or performance period, generally defined as the vesting period. For awards with graded vesting, compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. The stock options granted under these plans are exercisable at a price equal to the fair value of common stock on the date of grant and expire not more than ten years after the date of grant.

 

Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”): On April 22, 2014, the shareholders of the Company approved the 2014 ESPP. The ESPP provides for the granting of purchase rights of up to 150,000 shares of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation common stock. Subject to certain eligibility requirements and restrictions, the ESPP allows employees to purchase shares during four three-month offering periods (“Offering Periods”). Each participant in the Offering Period is granted an option to purchase a number of shares and may contribute between one percent and 15 percent of their compensation. At the end of each Offering Period on the purchase date, the number of shares to be purchased by the employee is determined by dividing the employee’s contributions accumulated during the Offering Period by the applicable purchase price. The purchase price is an amount equal to 85 percent of the closing market price of a share of common stock on the purchase date. Participation in the ESPP is entirely voluntary and employees can cancel their purchases at any time during the period without penalty. The fair value of each share purchase right is determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the Company recorded $100 thousand, $100 thousand and $49 thousand of expense in salaries and employee benefits expense for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. Total shares issued under the ESPP were 32,190, 30,766 and 10,698 during 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Earnings Per Share (“EPS”): In calculating earnings per share, there are no adjustments to net income available to common shareholders, which is the numerator of both the Basic and Diluted EPS. The weighted average number of shares outstanding used in the denominator for Diluted EPS is increased over the denominator used for Basic EPS by the effect of potentially dilutive common stock equivalents utilizing the treasury stock method. Common stock options outstanding are common stock equivalents, as are restricted stock/units until vested. Earnings and dividends per share are restated for all stock splits and stock dividends through the date of issuance of the financial statements.

 

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The following table shows the calculation of both basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014:

 

(In thousands, except share and per share data)  2016   2015   2014 
Net income available to common shareholders  $26,477   $19,972   $14,890 
Basic weighted average shares outstanding   16,318,868    15,187,637    12,065,615 
Plus:  common stock equivalents   196,130    247,359    106,492 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   16,514,998    15,434,996    12,172,107 
Earnings per share:               
Basic  $1.62   $1.31   $1.23 
Diluted   1.60    1.29    1.22 

 

Stock options totaling 2,479, 92,720 and 478,389 shares were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share in the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, because they were considered antidilutive.

 

Loss Contingencies: Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and an amount or range of loss can be reasonable estimated. Management does not believe there are any such matters that will have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Restrictions on Cash: Cash on hand or on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank was required to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements.

 

Comprehensive Income: Comprehensive income consists of net income and the change during the period in the Company’s net unrealized gains or losses on securities available for sale and unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedge, net of tax, less adjustments for realized gains and losses.

 

Equity: Stock dividends in excess of 20 percent are reported by transferring the par value of the stock issued from retained earnings to common stock. Stock dividends for 20 percent or less are reported by transferring the fair value, as of the ex-dividend date, of the stock issued from retained earnings to common stock and additional paid-in capital. Fractional share amounts are paid in cash with a reduction in retained earnings. Treasury stock is carried at cost.

 

Transfers of Financial Assets:  Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been relinquished.  Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when the assets have been isolated from the Company, the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets:  Goodwill is generally determined as the excess of the fair value of the consideration transferred, plus the fair value of any noncontrolling interests in the acquire (if any), over the fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date.  Goodwill and intangible assets acquired in a purchase business combination and determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events and circumstances exists that indicate that a goodwill impairment test should be performed. The Company has selected December 31 as the date to perform the annual impairment test.  Intangible assets with definite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values. Goodwill and assembly workforce are the intangible asset with an indefinite life on our balance sheet.

 

Other intangible assets primarily consist of customer relationship intangible assets arising from acquisition are amortized on an accelerated method over their estimated useful lives, which range up to 15 years.

 

Reclassification: Certain reclassifications have been made in the prior periods’ financial statements in order to conform to the 2016 presentation and had no effect on the consolidated income statements or shareholders’ equity.

 

New Accounting Policies: Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)” implements a common revenue standard that clarifies the principles for recognizing revenue. The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. To achieve that core principle, an entity should apply the following steps: (is) identify the contract(s) with a

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customer, (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (iii) determine the transaction price, (iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. In July 2015, FASB deferred the effective date of the ASU by one year which means ASU 2014-09 will be effective for the Company on January 1, 2018.  In March 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-08 which amended illustrative examples to clarify how to apply the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations. The Company does not expect the guidance will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments. This guidance amends existing guidance to improve accounting standards for financial instruments including clarification and simplification of accounting and disclosure requirements and the requirement for public business entities to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes. These amendments are effective for public business entities for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is evaluating the impact of these amendments on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The standard requires a lessee to recognize assets and liabilities on the balance sheet for leases with lease terms greater than 12 months. For lessees, virtually all leases will be required to be recognized on the balance sheet by recording a right-of-use asset and lease liability. Subsequent accounting for leases varies depending on whether the lease is an operating lease or a finance lease. The ASU requires additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures with the objective of enabling users of financial statements to assess the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. This ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018, and early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact that the standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718), Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. Under the ASU, an entity recognizes all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement. This change eliminates the notion of the APIC pool and reduces the complexity and cost of accounting for excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies. Excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies are considered discrete items in the reporting period they occur and are not included in the estimate of an entity’s annual effective tax rate. Additionally, this update permits an entity-wide accounting policy election to either estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest or account for forfeitures as they occur. This accounting guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those annual periods. Upon adoption, excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies will be recognized in the provision for income taxes on the consolidated statement of operations and will be presented within operating activities on the consolidated statement of cash flows.

 

On June 16, 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-13, “Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” (the ASU).   This ASU replaces the incurred loss model with an expected loss model, referred to as “current expected credit loss” (CECL) model.  It will significantly change estimates for credit losses related to financial assets measured at amortized cost, including loans receivable, held-to-maturity (HTM) debt securities and certain other contracts.   The largest impact will be on lenders and the allowance for loan and lease losses (ALLL).  This ASU will be effective for public business entities (PBEs) in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  The Company is currently in the process of evaluating the impact of this ASU on its consolidated financial statements.

 

On August 26, 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments)”. This ASU addresses the following eight specific cash flow issues: Debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs; settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing; contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies (COLIs) (including bank-owned life insurance policies (BOLIs)); distributions received from equity method investees; beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. This amendment is effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. There is no material impact on our statement of cash flows as a result of this ASU.

 

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2. INVESTMENT SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE

 

A summary of amortized cost and approximate fair value of investment securities available for sale included in the consolidated statements of condition as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 follows:

 

   2016 
       Gross   Gross     
   Amortized   Unrecognized   Unrecognized   Fair 
(In thousands)  Cost   Gains   Losses   Value 
U.S. government-sponsored agencies  $21,991   $   $(474)  $21,517 
Mortgage-backed securities-residential   238,271    860    (1,514)   237,617 
SBA pool securities   6,778        (65)   6,713 
State and political subdivisions   29,107    160    (274)   28,993 
Corporate bond   3,000    113        3,113 
Single-issuer trust preferred security   2,999        (389)   2,610 
CRA investment fund   5,000        (175)   4,825 
  Total  $307,146   $1,133   $(2,891)  $305,388 

 

   2015 
       Gross   Gross     
   Amortized   Unrecognized   Unrecognized   Fair 
(In thousands)  Cost   Gains   Losses   Value 
Mortgage-backed securities-residential  $159,747   $1,293   $(433)  $160,607 
SBA pool securities   7,601        (81)   7,520 
State and political subdivisions   21,612    417        22,029 
Single-issuer trust preferred security   2,999        (464)   2,535 
CRA investment fund   3,000        (61)   2,939 
  Total  $194,959   $1,710   $(1,039)  $195,630 

 

The amortized cost and approximate fair value of investment securities available for sale as of December 31, 2016, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or repay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Securities not due at a single maturity, such as mortgage-backed securities, marketable equity securities and the CRA Investment Fund, are shown separately.

 

Maturing in:        
(In thousands)  Amortized Cost   Fair Value 
One year or less  $9,483   $9,487 
After one year through five years   19,409    19,451 
After five years through ten years   20,359    19,873 
After ten years   7,846    7,422 
    57,097    56,233 
Mortgage-backed securities-residential   238,271    237,617 
SBA pool securities   6,778    6,713 
CRA investment fund   5,000    4,825 
  Total  $307,146   $305,388 

 

Securities available for sale with fair value of $154.7 million and $136.0 million as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, were pledged to secure public funds and for other purposes required or permitted by law.

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The following is a summary of the gross gains, gross losses and net tax expense related to proceeds on sales of securities available for sale for the years ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Proceeds on sales  $5,499   $46,254   $35,411 
Gross gains   133    536    414 
Gross losses   (14)   (9)   (154)
Net tax expense   44    216    91 

 

The following table presents the Company’s available for sale securities with continuous unrealized losses and the approximate fair value of these investments as of December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

   2016 
   Duration of Unrecognized Loss 
   Less Than 12 Months   12 Months or Longer   Total 
   Approximate       Approximate       Approximate     
   Fair   Unrecognized   Fair   Unrecognized   Fair   Unrecognized 
(In thousands)  Value   Losses   Value   Losses   Value   Losses 
U.S. government-                              
  sponsored agencies  $21,517   $(474)  $   $   $21,517   $(474)
Mortgage-backed                              
  securities-residential   151,114    (1,472)   5,147    (42)   156,261    (1,514)
SBA pool securities           6,713    (65)   6,713    (65)
State and political                              
   subdivisions   9,412    (274)           9,412    (274)
Single-issuer trust                              
  preferred security           2,610    (389)   2,610    (389)
CRA investment fund   1,930    (70)   2,894    (105)   4,824    (175)
    Total  $183,973   $(2,290)  $17,364   $(601)  $201,337   $(2,891)

 

   2015 
   Duration of Unrecognized Loss 
   Less Than 12 Months   12 Months or Longer   Total 
   Approximate       Approximate       Approximate     
   Fair   Unrecognized   Fair   Unrecognized   Fair   Unrecognized 
(In thousands)  Value   Losses   Value   Losses   Value   Losses 
Mortgage-backed                        
  securities-residential  $89,717   $(345)  $8,913   $(88)  $98,630   $(433)
SBA pool securities            7,520    (81)   7,520    (81)
Single-issuer trust                              
  preferred security           2,535    (464)   2,535    (464)
CRA investment fund           2,939    (61)   2,939    (61)
    Total  $89,717   $(345)  $21,907   $(694)  $111,624   $(1,039)

 

Management believes that the unrealized losses on investment securities available for sale are temporary and due to interest rate fluctuations and/or volatile market conditions rather than the credit worthiness of the issuers. The Company does not intend to sell these securities nor is it likely that it will be required to sell the securities before their anticipated recovery.

At December 31, 2016, the unrealized loss of $389 thousand is related to a single-issuer trust preferred security issued by a large bank holding company that has experienced declines in fair value on all its securities due to the turmoil in the financial markets and a merger. The investment continues to be rated below investment grade by at least two recognized rating agencies. Management monitors the performance of the issuer on a quarterly basis to determine if there are any credit events that could result in deferral or default of the security. The fair value of this security at December 31, 2016, is higher than the fair value at December 31, 2015. Management believes the depressed valuation is a result of the nature of the bond, a trust preferred security, and the bond’s very low yield and not due to credit. At December 31, 2016, Management does not intend to sell the security nor is it likely that it will be required to sell the security before its anticipated recovery.

No other-than-temporary impairment charges were recognized in 2016, 2015 or 2014.

 

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3. LOANS

 

The following table presents loans outstanding, by type of loan, as of December 31:

 

       % of Total       % of Total 
(Dollars in thousands)  2016   Loans   2015   Loans 
Residential mortgage  $527,370    15.92%   $470,869    16.16% 
Multifamily mortgage   1,459,594    44.07    1,416,775    48.63 
Commercial mortgage   551,233    16.65    413,118    14.18 
Commercial loans   636,714    19.23    512,886    17.60 
Construction loans   1,405    0.04    1,401    0.05 
Home equity lines of credit   65,682    1.98    52,649    1.81 
Consumer loans, including                    
  fixed rate home equity loans   69,654    2.10    45,044    1.55 
Other loans   492    0.01    500    0.02 
    Total loans  $3,312,144    100.00%   $2,913,242    100.00% 

 

In determining an appropriate amount for the allowance, the Bank segments and evaluates the loan portfolio based on Federal call report codes. The following portfolio classes have been identified as of December 31:

 

       % of Total       %  of Total 
(Dollars in thousands)  2016   Loans   2015   Loans 
Primary residential mortgage  $557,970    16.86%   $483,085    16.59% 
Home equity lines of credit   65,683    1.98    52,804    1.81 
Junior lien loan on residence   9,206    0.28    11,503    0.39 
Multifamily property   1,459,594    44.09    1,416,775    48.66 
Owner-occupied commercial                    
  real estate   176,123    5.32    176,276    6.05 
Investment commercial real estate   752,258    22.73    568,849    19.54 
Commercial and industrial   213,983    6.47    154,295    5.30 
Farmland/Agricultural production   169    0.01    179    0.01 
Commercial construction   1,497    0.04    151    0.01 
Consumer and other   73,621    2.22    47,635    1.64 
   Total loans  $3,310,104    100.00%   $2,911,552    100.00% 
Net deferred costs   2,040         1,690      
   Total loans including                    
      net deferred costs  $3,312,144        $2,913,242      

 

Loans are transferred from the loan portfolio to held for sale when the Company no longer has the intent to hold the loans for the foreseeable future.

 

Multifamily loans held for sale, at lower of cost or fair value, totaled $82.2 million as of December 31, 2015. The Company did not have any multi-family loans held for sale as of December 31, 2016. The Company sold approximately $234 million and $204 million in multifamily loans during 2016 and 2015. The loans sold in 2016 include both loan participations and whole loan sales, compared to 2015, where the Company sold loan participations. Gain on sale of whole loans sold in 2016 totaled approximately $1.2 million and none of the loans were sold at a loss.

 

During 2016, the Company transferred $30.1 million of loans from held for sale back to the loan portfolio. These loans were transferred at lower of cost or fair value. No loss was recognized on the transfer.

 

In June of 2014, the Company sold $67 million of longer-duration, lower-coupon residential first mortgage loans as part of its strategy to de-emphasize residential first mortgage lending, while benefitting its liquidity and interest rate risk positions. Income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, included the gain on sale of $166 thousand.

 

The Company, through the Bank, may extend credit to officers, directors or their associates. These loans are subject to the Company’s normal lending policy and Federal Reserve Bank Regulation O.

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The following table shows the changes in loans to officers, directors or their associates:

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015 
Balance, beginning of year  $4,280   $4,518 
New loans   1,329    1,747 
Repayments   (697)   (1,985)
Loans with individuals no longer considered related parties   (124)    
Balance, at end of year  $4,788   $4,280 

 

The following tables present the loan balances by portfolio segment, based on impairment method, and the corresponding balances in the allowance for loan losses as of December 31, 2016 and 2015:

 

December 31, 2016
   Total   Ending ALLL   Total   Ending ALLL         
   Loans   Attributable   Loans   Attributable         
   Individually   to Loans   Collectively   to Loans         
   Evaluated   Individually   Evaluated   Collectively       Total 
   for   Evaluated for   for   Evaluated for   Total   Ending 
(In thousands)  Impairment   Impairment   Impairment   Impairment   Loans   ALLL 
Primary residential                              
   mortgage  $15,814   $456   $542,156   $3,210   $557,970   $3,666 
Home equity lines                              
   of credit   53        65,630    233    65,683    233 
Junior lien loan                              
   on residence   229        8,977    16    9,206    16 
Multifamily                              
   property           1,459,594    11,192    1,459,594    11,192 
Owner-occupied                              
   commercial                              
   real estate   1,486        174,637    1,774    176,123    1,774 
Investment                              
   commercial                              
   real estate   11,335    214    740,923    10,695    752,258    10,909 
Commercial and                              
   industrial   154    154    213,829    4,010    213,983    4,164 
Secured by                              
   farmland and                              
  agricultural                              
   production           169    2    169    2 
Commercial                              
   construction           1,497    9    1,497    9 
Consumer and                              
   other           73,621    243    73,621    243 
Total ALLL  $29,071   $824   $3,281,033   $31,384   $3,310,104   $32,208 

 

December 31, 2015

   Total   Ending ALLL   Total   Ending ALLL         
   Loans   Attributable   Loans   Attributable         
   Individually   to Loans   Collectively   to Loans         
   Evaluated   Individually   Evaluated   Collectively       Total 
   for   Evaluated for   for   Evaluated for   Total   Ending 
(In thousands)  Impairment   Impairment   Impairment   Impairment   Loans   ALLL 
Primary residential                              
  mortgage  $9,752   $291   $473,333   $2,006   $483,085   $2,297 
Home equity                              
   lines of credit   254        52,550    86    52,804    86 
Junior lien loan                              
   on residence   176        11,327    66    11,503    66 
Multifamily                              
   property           1,416,775    11,813    1,416,775    11,813 
Owner-occupied                              
   commercial                              
   real estate   1,272        175,004    1,679    176,276    1,679 
Investment                              
   commercial                              
   real estate   11,482    61    557,367    7,529    568,849    7,590 
Commercial and                              
   industrial   171    138    154,124    2,071    154,295    2,209 
Secured by                              
   farmland and                              
  agricultural                              
   production           179    2    179    2 
Commercial                              
   construction           151    2    151    2 
Consumer and                              
   other           47,635    112    47,635    112 
    Total ALLL  $23,107   $490   $2,888,445   $25,366   $2,911,552   $25,856 

 

73 

Impaired loans include nonaccrual loans of $11.3 million at December 31, 2016 and $6.7 million at December 31, 2015. Impaired loans also include performing troubled debt restructured loans of $17.8 million at December 31, 2016 and $16.2 million at December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2016, the allowance allocated to troubled debt restructured loans totaled $550 thousand of which $314 thousand was allocated to nonaccrual loans. At December 31, 2015, the allowance allocated to troubled debt restructured loans totaled $441 thousand of which $162 thousand was allocated to nonaccrual loans. All accruing troubled debt restructured loans were paying in accordance with restructured terms as of December 31, 2016. The Company has not committed to lend additional amounts as of December 31, 2016 to customers with outstanding loans that are classified as loan restructurings.

 

The following tables present loans individually evaluated for impairment by class of loans as of December 31, 2016 and 2015:

 

   December 31, 2016 
   Unpaid           Average 
   Principal   Recorded   Specific   Impaired 
(In thousands)  Balance   Investment   Reserves   Loans 
With no related allowance recorded:                    
  Primary residential mortgage  $16,015   $14,090   $   $10,038 
  Owner-occupied commercial real estate   1,597    1,486        1,450 
  Investment commercial real estate   9,711    9,711        9,974 
  Home equity lines of credit   56    53        143 
  Junior lien loan on residence   280    229        339 
    Total loans with no related allowance  $27,659   $25,569   $   $21,944 
With related allowance recorded:                    
  Primary residential mortgage  $1,787   $1,724   $456   $1,678 
  Investment commercial real estate   1,640    1,624    214    1,642 
  Commercial and industrial   204    154    154    145 
    Total loans with related allowance  $3,631   $3,502   $824   $3,465 
Total loans individually evaluated                    
  for impairment  $31,290   $29,071   $824   $25,409 

 

   December 31, 2015 
   Unpaid           Average 
   Principal   Recorded   Specific   Impaired 
(In thousands)  Balance   Investment   Reserves   Loans 
With no related allowance recorded:                    
  Primary residential mortgage  $8,998   $7,782   $   $5,683 
  Owner-occupied commercial real estate   1,460    1,272        1,379 
  Investment commercial real estate   11,099    10,233        10,330 
  Commercial and industrial   63    33        112 
  Home equity lines of credit   258    254        229 
  Junior lien loan on residence   219    176        166 
  Consumer and other               1 
    Total loans with no related allowance  $22,097   $19,750   $   $17,900 
With related allowance recorded:                    
  Primary residential mortgage  $2,090   $1,970   $291   $1,894 
  Investment commercial real estate   1,249    1,249    61    1,266 
  Commercial and industrial   179    138    138    144 
    Total loans with related allowance  $3,518   $3,357   $490   $3,304 
Total loans individually evaluated                    
  for impairment  $25,615   $23,107   $490   $21,204 

 

Interest income recognized during 2016, 2015 and 2014 was not material.

74 

 

The following tables present the recorded investment in nonaccrual and loans past due over 90 days still on accrual by class of loans as of December 31, 2016 and 2015:

   December 31, 2016 
       Loans Past Due Over 
       90 Days and Still 
(In thousands)  Nonaccrual   Accruing Interest 
Primary residential mortgage  $9,071   $ 
Home equity lines of credit   30     
Junior lien loan on residence   115     
Owner-occupied commercial real estate   1,486     
Investment commercial real estate   408     
Commercial and industrial   154     
Consumer and other        
  Total  $11,264   $ 

 

   December 31, 2015 
       Loans Past Due Over 
       90 Days and Still 
(In thousands)  Nonaccrual   Accruing Interest 
Primary residential mortgage  $4,549   $ 
Home equity lines of credit   229     
Junior lien loan on residence   118     
Owner-occupied commercial real estate   1,272     
Investment commercial real estate   408     
Commercial and industrial   171     
Consumer and other        
  Total  $6,747   $ 

 

The following tables present the recorded investment in past due loans as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 by class of loans, excluding nonaccrual loans:

 

   December 31, 2016 
   30-59   60-89   Greater Than     
   Days   Days   90 Days   Total 
(In thousands)  Past Due   Past Due   Past Due   Past Due 
Primary residential mortgage  $620   $480   $   $1,100 
Junior lien loan on residence       25        25 
Owner-occupied commercial real estate   209            209 
Commercial and industrial   22            22 
  Total  $851   $505   $   $1,356 

 

   December 31, 2015 
   30-59   60-89   Greater Than     
   Days   Days   90 Days   Total 
(In thousands)  Past Due   Past Due   Past Due   Past Due 
Primary residential mortgage  $1,214   $157   $   $1,371 
Investment commercial real estate   772            772 
  Total  $1,986   $157   $   $2,143 

 

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Credit Quality Indicators:

 

The Company places all commercial loans into various credit risk rating categories based on an assessment of the expected ability of the borrowers to properly service their debt. The assessment considers numerous factors including, but not limited to, current financial information on the borrower, historical payment experience, strength of any guarantor, nature of and value of any collateral, acceptability of the loan structure and documentation, relevant public information and current economic trends. This credit risk rating analysis is performed when the loan is initially underwritten and then annually based on set criteria in the loan policy.

 

In addition, the Bank has engaged an independent loan review firm to validate risk ratings and to ensure compliance with our policies and procedures. This review is performed in quarterly installments. The sample methodology is shown below:

 

·All loans over $5,000,000;
·All loans in a relationship will be covered at the same time;
·All loans with a risk rating of criticized or classified;
·All nonaccrual loans not criticized or classified;
·All loans that are 60 days or more past due as of the review date;
·A sample of loans over $500,000 with weighting by exposure;
·On a random sampling basis for loans under $500,000; and
·Whenever Management otherwise identifies a positive or negative trend or issue relating to a borrower.

 

The Company uses the following regulatory definitions for criticized and classified risk ratings:

 

Special Mention: These loans have a potential weakness that deserves Management’s close attention. If left uncorrected, the potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loans or of the institution’s credit position at some future date.

Substandard: These loans are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the institution will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.

Doubtful: These loans have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard, with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full highly questionable and improbable, based on currently existing facts, conditions and values.

Loans not meeting the criteria above that are analyzed individually as part of the above described process are considered to be pass-rated loans.

 

The table below presents, based on the most recent analysis performed, the risk category of loans by class of loans for December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

December 31, 2016

       Special         
(In thousands)  Pass   Mention   Substandard   Doubtful 
Primary residential mortgage  $541,359   $660   $15,951   $ 
Home equity lines of credit   65,630        53     
Junior lien loan on residence   8,977        229     
Multifamily property   1,456,328    2,867    399     
Owner-occupied commercial real estate   170,851        5,272     
Investment commercial real estate   724,203    5,116    22,939     
Commercial and industrial   208,617    4,411    955     
Secured by farmland and agricultural   169             
Commercial construction   1,400    97         
Consumer and other loans   73,621             
  Total  $3,251,155   $13,151   $45,798   $ 

 

76 

 

December 31, 2015

       Special         
(In thousands)  Pass   Mention   Substandard   Doubtful 
Primary residential mortgage  $471,859   $1,332   $9,894   $ 
Home equity lines of credit   52,550        254     
Junior lien loan on residence   11,327        176     
Multifamily property   1,407,856    7,718    1,201     
Owner-occupied commercial real estate   170,420    928    4,928     
Investment commercial real estate   536,479    6,217    26,153     
Commercial and industrial   148,940    5,184    171     
Secured by farmland and agricultural   179             
Commercial construction       151         
Consumer and other loans   47,635             
  Total  $2,847,245   $21,530   $42,777   $ 

 

At December 31, 2016, $27.9 million of substandard loans were also considered impaired as compared to December 31, 2015, when $21.8 million of the special mention and the substandard loans were also considered impaired.

 

The tables below present a roll forward of the allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

   January 1,               December 31, 
   2016               2016 
   Beginning           Provision   Ending 
(In thousands)  ALLL   Charge-Offs   Recoveries   (Credit)   ALLL 
Primary residential mortgage  $2,297   $(1,047)  $28   $2,388   $3,666 
Home equity lines of credit   86    (91)   15    223    233 
Junior lien loan on residence   66        140    (190)   16 
Multifamily property   11,813            (621)   11,192 
Owner-occupied commercial                         
  real estate   1,679    (11)   72    34    1,774 
Investment commercial real estate   7,590    (520)   246    3,593    10,909 
Commercial and industrial   2,209    (16)   29    1,942    4,164 
Secured by farmland and agricultural   2                2 
Commercial construction   2            7    9 
Consumer and other   112    (5)   12    124    243 
    Total ALLL  $25,856   $(1,690)  $542   $7,500   $32,208 

 

   January 1,               December 31, 
   2015               2015 
   Beginning           Provision   Ending 
(In thousands)  ALLL   Charge-Offs   Recoveries   (Credit)   ALLL 
Primary residential mortgage  $2,923   $(638)  $80   $(68)  $2,297 
Home equity lines of credit   156    (210)   2    138    86 
Junior lien loan on residence   109    (13)   62    (92)   66 
Multifamily property   8,983            2,830    11,813 
Owner-occupied commercial                         
  real estate   1,547        11    121    1,679 
Investment commercial real estate   4,751    (16)   18    2,837    7,590 
Commercial and industrial   880    (73)   81    1,321    2,209 
Secured by farmland and agricultural   4            (2)   2 
Commercial construction   31            (29)   2 
Consumer and other   96    (41)   13    44    112 
    Total ALLL  $19,480   $(991)  $267   $7,100   $25,856 

 

77 

   January 1,               December 31, 
   2014               2014 
   Beginning           Provision   Ending 
(In thousands)  ALLL   Charge-Offs   Recoveries   (Credit)   ALLL 
Primary residential mortgage  $2,361   $(273)  $1   $834   $2,923 
Home equity lines of credit   181            (25)   156 
Junior lien loan on residence   156    (1)   103    (149)   109 
Multifamily property   4,003            4,980    8,983 
Owner-occupied commercial                         
  real estate   2,563    (669)   106    (453)   1,547 
Investment commercial real estate   5,083        18    (350)   4,751 
Commercial and industrial   825    (123)   85    93    880 
Secured by farmland and agricultural   3            1    4 
Commercial construction   120            (89)   31 
Consumer and other   78    (22)   7    33    96 
    Total ALLL  $15,373   $(1,088)  $320   $4,875   $19,480 

 

Troubled Debt Restructurings: The Company has allocated $550 thousand and $441 thousand of specific reserves to customers whose loan terms have been modified in troubled debt restructurings as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. There were no unfunded commitments to lend additional amounts to customers with outstanding loans that are classified as troubled debt restructurings.

During the period ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the terms of certain loans were modified as troubled debt restructurings. The modification of the terms of such loans included one or a combination of the following: a reduction of the stated interest rate of the loan; or an extension of the maturity date at a stated rate of interest lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk.

The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2016:

 

       Pre-Modification   Post-Modification 
       Outstanding   Outstanding 
   Number of   Recorded   Recorded 
(Dollars in thousands)  Contracts   Investment   Investment 
Primary residential mortgage   7   $4,691   $4,691 
Junior Lien loan on residence   1    63    63 
Commercial and industrial   1    26    26 
  Total   9   $4,780   $4,780 

 

The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2015:

 

       Pre-Modification   Post-Modification 
       Outstanding   Outstanding 
   Number of   Recorded   Recorded 
(Dollars in thousands)  Contracts   Investment   Investment 
Primary residential mortgage   11   $3,296   $3,296 
Junior Lien loan on residence   1    58    58 
Investment commercial real estate   1    750    750 
  Total   13   $4,104   $4,104 

 

78 

 

The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2014:

 

       Pre-Modification   Post-Modification 
       Outstanding   Outstanding 
   Number of   Recorded   Recorded 
(Dollars in thousands)  Contracts   Investment   Investment 
Primary residential mortgage   8   $2,138   $2,138 
Investment commercial real estate   1    1,281    1,281 
  Total   9   $3,419   $3,419 

 

The identification of the troubled debt restructured loans did not have a significant impact on the allowance for loan losses. In addition, there were no charge-offs as a result of the classification of these loans as troubled debt restructuring during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings during the year ended December 31, 2016 for which there was a payment default during the same period:

 

   Number of   Recorded 
(Dollars in thousands)  Contracts   Investment 
Primary residential mortgage   1   $269 
  Total   1   $269 

 

There were no payment defaults on loans modified as troubled debt restructurings within twelve months of modification during the year ending December 31, 2015 and 2014.

 

The defaults described above did not have a material impact on the allowance for loan losses during 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

In order to determine whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, an evaluation is performed of the probability that the borrower will be in payment default on any of its debt in the foreseeable future without the modification. This evaluation is performed under the Company’s internal underwriting policy. The modification of the terms of such loans may include one or more of the following: (1) a reduction of the stated interest rate of the loan to a rate that is lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk; (2) an extension of an interest only period for a predetermined period of time; (3) an extension of the maturity date; or (4) an extension of the amortization period over which future payments will be computed. At the time a loan is restructured, the Bank performs a full re-underwriting analysis, which includes, at a minimum, obtaining current financial statements and tax returns, copies of all leases, and an updated independent appraisal of the property. A loan will continue to accrue interest if it can be reasonably determined that the borrower should be able to perform under the modified terms, that the loan has not been chronically delinquent (both to debt service and real estate taxes) or in nonaccrual status since its inception, and that there have been no charge-offs on the loan. Restructured loans with previous charge-offs would not accrue interest at the time of the troubled debt restructuring. At a minimum, six months of contractual payments would need to be made on a restructured loan before returning it to accrual status. Once a loan is classified as a TDR, the loan is reported as a TDR until the loan is paid in full, sold or charged-off. In rare circumstances, a loan may be removed from TDR status, if it meets the requirements of ASC 310-40-50-2.

 

4. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

 

The following table presents premises and equipment as of December 31,

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015 
Land and land improvements  $6,160   $4,942 
Buildings   11,982    11,970 
Furniture and equipment   17,572    16,857 
Leasehold improvements   11,138    10,423 
Projects in progress   1,415    919 
Capital lease asset   11,237    11,237 
    59,504    56,348 
Less:  accumulated depreciation   29,133    26,102 
  Total  $30,371   $30,246 

 

79 

The Company has included leases in premises and equipment as follows:

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015 
Land and buildings  $11,237   $11,237 
Less:  accumulated depreciation   3,915    3,167 
  Total  $7,322   $8,070 

 

Projects in progress represents costs associated with renovations to the Company’s headquarters in addition to smaller renovation or equipment installation projects at other locations.

The Company recorded depreciation expense of $3.1 million, $3.9 million and $3.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

The Company leases its corporate headquarters building under a capital lease and in 2014, leased additional space in the building. The lease arrangement requires monthly payments through 2025. Related depreciation expense and accumulated depreciation of $607 thousand, $607 thousand and $531 thousand is included in the results of 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

The Company also leases its Gladstone branch after completing a sale-leaseback transaction involving the property in 2011. The lease arrangement requires monthly payments through 2031. The gain on the sale of $764 thousand was deferred and will be accreted to income over the life of the lease. Related depreciation expense and accumulated depreciation of $141 thousand is included in each of the 2016, 2015 and 2014 results.

The following is a schedule by year of future minimum lease payments under capitalized leases, together with the present value of net minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2016:

(In thousands)    
2017  $1,081 
2018   1,127 
2019   1,146 
2020   1,195 
2021   1,232 
Thereafter   6,587 
  Total minimum lease payments   12,368 
  Less: amount representing interest   2,675 
    Present value of net minimum lease payments  $9,693 

 

In the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company closed two retail branch offices.  As a result of the closures, the Company recorded additional expense of $2.5 million, which includes accelerated depreciation of $723 thousand. The acceleration of depreciation expense is included with premises and equipment expense and lease related expenses are included with other operating expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

5. OTHER REAL ESTATE OWNED

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had other real estate owned, net of valuation allowances, totaling $534 thousand and $563 thousand, respectively.

The following table shows the activity in other real estate owned, excluding the valuation allowance, for the years ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015 
Balance, beginning of year  $3,233   $3,744 
OREO properties added   534    233 
Sales during year   (3,233)   (744)
Balance, end of year  $534   $3,233 

 

80 

The following table shows the activity in the valuation allowance for the years ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Balance, beginning of year  $2,670   $2,420   $2,020 
Additions charged to expense       250    400 
Direct writedowns   (2,670)        
Balance, end of year  $   $2,670   $2,420 

 

The following table shows expenses related to other real estate owned for the years ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Net gain on sales  $(5)  $   $(139)
Provision for unrealized losses       250    400 
Operating expenses, net of rental income   59    51    179 
  Total  $54   $301   $440 

 

6. DEPOSITS

 

Time deposits over $250,000 totaled $118.7 million and $115.6 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

The following table sets forth the details of total deposits as of December 31,

 

   2016   2015 
(Dollars in thousands)                
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits  $489,485    14.35%  $419,887    14.30%
Interest-bearing checking   1,023,081    29.99    861,697    29.36 
Savings   120,056    3.52    115,007    3.92 
Money market   1,048,494    30.73    810,709    27.62 
Certificates of deposit   457,000    13.39    434,450    14.80 
Interest-bearing demand - Brokered   180,000    5.27    200,000    6.81 
Certificates of deposit - Brokered   93,721    2.75    93,720    3.19 
  Total deposits  $3,411,837    100.00%  $2,935,470    100.00%

 

The scheduled maturities of time deposits as of December 31, 2016 are as follows:

 

(In thousands)    
2017  $152,113 
2018   203,630 
2019   71,084 
2020   34,420 
2021   18,539 
Over 5 Years   70,935 
  Total  $550,721 

 

7. FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK ADVANCES AND OTHER BORROWINGS

 

Advances from FHLB totaled $61.8 million at December 31, 2016, with a weighted average interest rate of 2.02 percent. Advances from FHLB totaled $83.7 million at December 31, 2015, with a weighted average interest rate of 1.78 percent.

 

At December 31, 2016 advances totaling $49.8 million with a weighted average rate of 1.78 percent, have fixed maturity dates. At December 31, 2015 advances totaling $71.7 million with a weighted average rate of 1.57 percent, have fixed maturity dates. At December 31, 2016 the fixed rate advances are secured by blanket pledges of certain 1-4 family residential mortgages totaling $468.3 million and multifamily mortgages totaling $1.2 billion, while at December 31, 2015 the fixed rate advances are secured by blanket pledges of certain 1-4 family residential mortgages totaling $428.2 million and multifamily totaling $1.1 billion.

 

81 

At both December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company had $12.0 million in variable rate advances, with a weighted average rate of 3.01 percent, that are noncallable for two or three years and then callable quarterly with final maturities of ten years from the original date of the advance. All of these advances are beyond their initial noncallable periods. These advances are secured by pledges of investment securities totaling $14.6 million at December 31, 2016 and $13.2 million at December 31, 2015.

 

The advances have prepayment penalties.

 

The scheduled principal repayments and maturities of advances as of December 31, 2016 are as follows:

 

(In thousands)    
2017  $23,897 
2018   34,898 
2019   3,000 
2020    
2021    
Over 5 years    
  Total  $61,795 

 

At December 31, 2016 there were no overnight borrowings with the FHLB and at December 31, 2015 there were overnight borrowings with the FHLB of $40.7 million with a weighted average rate of 0.52 percent. At December 31, 2016, unused short-term or overnight borrowing commitments totaled $1.1 billion from the FHLB, $22.0 million from correspondent banks and $632.0 million at the Federal Reserve Bank.

 

8. FAIR VALUE

 

Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair values:

Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity has the ability to access as of the measurement date.
   
Level 2: Significant other observable inputs other that Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
   
Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that reflect a company’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing as asset or liability.

 

The Company used the following methods and significant assumptions to estimate the fair value:

Investment Securities: The fair values for investment securities are determined by quoted market prices (Level 1). For securities where quoted prices are not available, fair values are calculated based on market prices of similar securities (Level 2). For securities where quoted prices or market prices of similar securities are not available, fair values are calculated using discounted cash flows or other market indicators (Level 3).

Loans Held for Sale, at Fair Value: The fair value of loans held for sale is determined using quoted prices for similar assets, adjusted for specific attributes of that loan or other observable market data, such as outstanding commitments from third party investors (Level 2).

Derivatives: The fair values of derivatives are based on valuation models using observable market data as of the measurement date (Level 2). Our derivatives are traded in an over-the-counter market where quoted market prices are not always available. Therefore, the fair values of derivatives are determined using quantitative models that utilize multiple market inputs. The inputs will vary based on the type of derivative, but could include interest rates, prices and indices to generate continuous yield or pricing curves, prepayment rates, and volatility factors to value the position. The majority of

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market inputs are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, including brokers, market transactions and third-party pricing services.

Impaired Loans: The fair value of impaired loans with specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses is generally based on recent real estate appraisals. These appraisals may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the independent appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. Such adjustments are usually significant and typically result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value.

Other Real Estate Owned: Nonrecurring adjustments to certain commercial and residential real estate properties classified as other real estate owned (OREO) are measured at fair value, less costs to sell. Fair values are based on recent real estate appraisals. These appraisals may use a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the independent appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. Such adjustments are usually significant and typically result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value.

Appraisals for both collateral-dependent impaired loans and other real estate owned are performed by certified general appraisers (for commercial properties) or certified residential appraisers (for residential properties) whose qualifications and licenses have been reviewed and verified by Management. Once received, a member of the Credit Department reviews the assumptions and approaches utilized in the appraisal, as well as the overall resulting fair value in comparison with independent data sources such as recent market data or industry-wide statistics. Appraisals on collateral dependent impaired loans and other real estate owned (consistent for all loan types) are obtained on an annual basis, unless a significant change in the market or other factors warrants a more frequent appraisal. On an annual basis, Management compares the actual selling price of any collateral that has been sold to the most recent appraised value to determine what additional adjustment should be made to the appraisal value to arrive at fair value for other properties. The most recent analysis performed indicated that a discount up to 15 percent should be applied to appraisals on properties. The discount is determined based on the nature of the underlying properties, aging of appraisal and other factors. For each collateral-dependent impaired loan we consider other factors, such as certain indices or other market information, as well as property specific circumstances to determine if an adjustment to the appraised value is needed. In situations where there is evidence of change in value, the Bank will determine if there is need for an adjustment to the specific reserve on the collateral dependent impaired loans. When the Bank applies an interim adjustment, it generally shows the adjustment as an incremental specific reserve against the loan until it has received the full updated appraisal. As of December 31, 2016, all collateral-dependent impaired loans and other real estate owned valuations were supported by an appraisal less than 12 months old.

 

The following table summarizes, for the periods indicated, assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis, including financial assets for which the Company has elected the fair value option:

       Fair Value Measurements Using 
       Quoted         
       Prices In         
       Active         
       Markets   Significant     
       For   Other   Significant 
       Identical   Observable   Unobservable 
       Assets   Inputs   Inputs 
(In thousands)  December 31, 2016   (Level 1)   (Level 2)   (Level 3) 
Assets:                    
Securities available for sale:                    
  U.S. government-sponsored agencies  $21,517   $   $21,517   $ 
  Mortgage-backed securities-residential   237,617        237,617     
  SBA pool securities   6,713        6,713     
  State and political subdivisions   28,993        28,993     
  Corporate bond   3,113        3,113      
  Single-issuer trust preferred security   2,610        2,610     
  CRA investment fund   4,825    4,825         
 Loans held for sale, at fair value   1,200        1,200     
Derivatives:                    
   Cash flow hedges   123        123     
   Loan level swaps   1,543        1,543     
    Total  $308,254   $4,825   $303,429   $ 
                     
Liabilities:                    
Derivatives:                    
   Cash flow hedges   (867)       (867)    
   Loan level swaps   (1,543)       (1,543)    
    Total  $(2,410)  $   $(2,410)  $ 

 

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(In thousands)  December 31, 2015             
Assets:                
Securities available for sale:                    
  Mortgage-backed securities-residential  $160,607   $   $160,607   $ 
  SBA pool securities   7,520        7,520     
  State and political subdivisions   22,029        22,029     
  Single-issuer trust preferred security   2,535        2,535     
  CRA investment fund   2,939    2,939         
 Loans held for sale, at fair value   1,558        1,558     
Derivatives:                    
   Cash flow hedges   104        104     
   Loan level swaps   1,106        1,106     
    Total  $198,398   $2,939   $195,459   $ 
                     
Liabilities:                    
Derivatives:                    
   Cash flow hedges   (1,434)       (1,434)    
   Loan level swaps   (1,106)       (1,106)    
    Total  $(2,540)  $   $(2,540)  $ 

 

 

The Company has elected the fair value option for loans held for sale. These loans are intended for sale and the Company believes that the fair value is the best indicator of the resolution of these loans. Interest income is recorded based on the contractual terms of the loan and in accordance with the Company’s policy on loans held for investment. None of these loans are 90 days or more past due or on nonaccrual as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

 

The following tables present residential loans held for sale, at fair value for the periods indicated:

 

   December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015 
Residential loans contractual balance  $1,181   $1,536 
Fair value adjustment   19    22 
   Total fair value of residential loans held for sale  $1,200   $1,558 

 

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the year ended December 31, 2016.

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The following table summarizes, for the periods indicated, assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis:

 

       Fair Value Measurements Using 
       Quoted         
       Prices In         
       Active         
       Markets   Significant     
       For   Other   Significant 
       Identical   Observable   Unobservable 
       Assets   Inputs   Inputs 
(In thousands)  December 31, 2016   (Level 1)   (Level 2)   (Level 3) 
Assets:                
Impaired loans:                    
  Investment commercial real estate  $245   $   $   $245 

 

(In thousands)  December 31, 2015             
Assets:                
Impaired loans:                
  Primary residential mortgage  $251   $   $   $251 
  OREO   330            330 

 

Impaired loans that are measured for impairment using the fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans, had a recorded investment of $408 thousand, with a valuation allowance of $163 thousand at December 31, 2016. Impaired loans that are measured for impairment using the fair value of the collateral for collateral dependent loans, had a recorded investment of $299 thousand, with a valuation allowance of $48 thousand at December 31, 2015.

At December 31, 2015, OREO at fair value represents one commercial property. The Company recorded a valuation allowance of $250 thousand during 2015.

 

The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments at December 31, 2016 are as follows:

 

   Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016 Using 
   Carrying                 
(In thousands)  Amount   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Financial assets                         
   Cash and cash equivalents  $162,691   $162,691   $   $   $162,691 
   Securities available for sale   305,388    4,825    300,563        305,388 
   FHLB and FRB stock   13,813                N/A 
   Loans held for sale, at fair value   1,200        1,200        1,200 
   Loans held for sale, at lower of cost                         
    or fair value   388        428        428 
   Loans, net of allowance for loan losses   3,279,936            3,256,837    3,256,837 
   Accrued interest receivable   8,153        899    7,254    8,153 
   Cash flow hedges   123        123        123 
   Loan level swaps   1,543        1,543        1,543 
Financial liabilities                         
  Deposits  $3,411,837   $2,861,116   $549,332   $   $3,410,448 
  Federal Home Loan Bank advances   61,795        62,286        62,286 
  Subordinated debt   48,764            48,768    48,768 
  Accrued interest payable   1,127    161    966        1,127 
  Cash flow hedges   867        867        867 
  Loan level swaps   1,543        1,543        1,543 

 

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The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments at December 31, 2015 are as follows:

 

   Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 Using 
   Carrying                 
(In thousands)  Amount   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Financial assets                    
   Cash and cash equivalents  $70,160   $70,160   $   $   $70,160 
   Securities available for sale   195,630    2,939    192,691        195,630 
   FHLB and FRB stock   13,984                N/A 
   Loans held for sale, at fair value   1,558        1,558        1,558 
   Loans held for sale, at lower of cost                         
    or fair value   82,200        82,200        82,200 
   Loans, net of allowance for loan losses   2,887,386            2,865,601    2,865,601 
   Accrued interest receivable   6,820        562    6,258    6,820 
   Cash flow hedges   104        104        104 
   Loan level swaps   1,106        1,106        1,106 
Financial liabilities                         
   Deposits  $2,935,470   $2,407,300   $526,226   $   $2,933,526 
   Overnight borrowings   40,700        40,700        40,700 
   Federal Home Loan Bank advances   83,692        84,409        84,409 
   Accrued interest payable   957    128    829        957 
   Cash flow hedges   1,434        1,434        1,434 
   Loan level swaps   1,106        1,106        1,106 

 

The methods and assumptions, not previously presented, used to estimate fair values are described as follows:

Cash and cash equivalents: The carrying amounts of cash and short-term instruments approximate fair values and are classified as either Level 1 or Level 2. Cash and due from banks is classified as Level 1. Certificates of deposit are classified as Level 2.

FHLB and FRB stock: It is not practicable to determine the fair value of FHLB or FRB stock due to restrictions placed on its transferability.

Loans held for sale, at lower of cost or fair value: The fair value of loans held for sale is determined using quoted prices for similar assets, adjusted for specific attributes of that loan or other observable market data, such as outstanding commitments from third party investors. Loans held for sale are classified as Level 2.

Loans: For variable rate loans that reprice frequently and with no significant change in credit risk, fair values are based on carrying values resulting in a Level 3 classification. Fair values for other loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality resulting in a Level 3 classification. Impaired loans are valued at the lower of cost or fair value as described previously. The methods utilized to estimate the fair value of loans do not necessarily represent an exit price.

Deposits: The fair values disclosed for demand deposits (e.g., interest and noninterest checking, savings and money market accounts) are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date, (i.e., the carrying amount) resulting in a Level 1 classification. The carrying amounts of variable-rate certificates of deposit approximate the fair values at the reporting date resulting in Level 2 classification. Fair values for fixed rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies interest rates currently being offered on certificates to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits resulting in a Level 2 classification.

Overnight borrowings: The carrying amounts of overnight borrowings approximate fair values and are classified as Level 2.

Federal Home Loan Bank advances: The fair values of the Company’s long-term borrowings are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on the current borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements resulting in a Level 2 classification.

Subordinated debentures: The fair values of the Company’s subordinated debentures are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on the current borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements resulting in a Level 3 classification.

 

Accrued interest receivable/payable: The carrying amounts of accrued interest approximate fair value resulting in a Level 2 or Level 3 classification. Accrued interest on deposits and securities are included in Level 2. Accrued interest on loans are included in Level 3.

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Off-balance sheet instruments: Fair values for off-balance sheet, credit-related financial instruments are based on fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the counterparties’ credit standing. The fair value of commitments is not material.

 

9. OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

 

The following table presents the major components of other operating expenses for the years ended December 31,

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Professional and legal fees  $3,459   $2,747   $1,873 
FDIC insurance   4,758    2,154    1,381 
Wealth Division other expense   2,029    2,147    1,896 
Branch Restructure (Note 4)       1,735     
Telephone   976    942    914 
Advertising   824    637    594 
Loan expense   715    426    532 
Provision for ORE losses       250    400 
Intangible amortization   123    82     
Other operating expenses   5,980    5,959    5,746 
  Total other operating expenses  $18,864   $17,079   $13,336 

 

10. INCOME TAXES

 

The income tax expense included in the consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, is allocated as follows:

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Federal:               
  Current expense/(benefit)  $13,207   $13,035   $10,251 
  Deferred expense/(benefit)   486    (3,210)   (2,626)
State:               
  Current expense/(benefit)   2,105    3,176    625 
  Deferred expense/(benefit)   466    (833)   1,146 
    Total income tax expense  $16,264   $12,168   $9,396 

 

Total income tax expense differed from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. Federal income tax rate of 35 percent to income before taxes as a result of the following:

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Computed “expected” tax expense  $14,959   $11,249   $8,500 
(Decrease)/increase in taxes resulting from:               
  Tax-exempt income   (496)   (316)   (152)
  State income taxes   1,671    1,523    1,102 
  Bank owned life insurance income   (195)   (279)   (152)
  Interest disallowance   95    40    9 
  Meals and entertainment expense   77    69    69 
  Stock-based compensation   15    86    60 
  Rate adjustment       (70)    
  Other   138    (134)   (40)
    Total income tax expense  $16,264   $12,168   $9,396 

 

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The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of December 31 are as follows:

 

(In thousands)  2016   2015 
Deferred tax assets:          
  Allowance for loan losses  $12,969   $10,437 
  Valuation allowance for OREO losses       1,084 
  Federal and state net operating loss carryforward       6 
  Lease adjustment   89    122 
  Post-retirement benefits   443    445 
  Prepaid alternative minimum assessment   283    283 
  Contribution limitation   235    237 
  Charitable contribution carryforward       32 
  Organization costs   22    24 
  Cash flow hedge   304    544 
  Unrealized loss on securities available for sale   668     
  Stock option expense   387    414 
  Nonaccrual interest   25    127 
  Accrued compensation   1,993    3,349 
  Capital leases   1,075    1,407 
    Total gross deferred tax assets  $18,493   $18,511 
Deferred tax liabilities:          
  Bank premises and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation  $800   $767 
  Unrealized gain on securities available for sale       262 
  Deferred loan origination costs and fees   1,535    1,114 
  Deferred income   790    721 
  Investment securities, principally due to the accretion of bond discount   4    29 
  Other   44    36 
Total gross deferred tax liabilities   3,173    2,929 
Net deferred tax asset  $15,320   $15,582 

 

Based upon taxes paid and projected future taxable income, Management believes that it is more likely than not that the gross deferred tax assets will be realized.

 

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had no unrecognized tax benefits. The Company does not expect the amount of unrecognized tax benefits to significantly increase or decrease in the next twelve months.

 

The Company is subject to U.S. Federal income tax as well as income tax of various state jurisdictions. The Company is no longer subject to federal examination for tax years prior to 2013. The tax years of 2013, 2014 and 2015 remains open to federal examination. The Company is no longer subject to state and local examinations by tax authorities for tax years prior to 2012. The tax years of 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 remain open for state examination.

 

11. BENEFIT PLANS

 

The Company sponsors a profit sharing plan and a savings plan under Section 401(K) of the Internal Revenue Code, covering substantially all salaried employees over the age of 21 with at least 12 months of service. Under the savings plan, the Company contributes three percent of salary for each employee regardless of the employees’ contributions as well as partially matching employee contributions. Expense for the savings plan totaled approximately $1.6 million, $1.6 million and $1.4 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Contributions to the profit sharing plan are made at the discretion of the Board of Directors and all funds are invested solely in Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation common stock. The Company did not contribute to the profit sharing plan in 2016, 2015 or 2014.

 

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12. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

The Company’s 2006 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan and 2012 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan allow the granting of shares of the Company’s common stock as incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and stock appreciation rights to directors, officers and employees of the Company and its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2016 the total number of shares available for grant in all active plans was 1,442,381. There are no shares remaining for issuance with respect to stock option plans approved in 1995, 1998 and 2002; however, options granted under those plans are still included in the numbers below.

 

Options granted under the long-term stock incentive plans are, in general, exercisable not earlier than one year after the date of grant, at a price equal to the fair value of the common stock on the date of grant, and expire not more than ten years after the date of grant. Stock options may vest during a period of up to five years after the date of grant. Some options granted to officers at or above the senior vice president level were immediately exercisable at the date of grant. The Company has a policy of using new shares to satisfy option exercises.

 

Changes in options outstanding during 2016 were as follows:

           Weighted    
       Weighted   Average  Aggregate 
       Average   Remaining  Intrinsic 
   Number of   Exercise   Contractual  Value 
   Options   Price   Term  (In Thousands) 
Balance, January 1, 2016   267,289   $17.28         
Granted during 2016                
Exercised during 2016   (70,527)   18.94         
Expired during 2016   (16,729)   21.31         
Forfeited during 2016   (874)   13.51         
Balance, December 31, 2016   179,159   $16.27   3.77 years  $2,618 
Vested and expected to vest (1)   178,663   $16.31   3.77 years  $2,603 
Exercisable at December 31, 2016   170,896   $16.41   3.68 years  $2,472 
                   
(1)The difference between the shares which are exercisable (fully vested) and those which are expected to vest is due to anticipated forfeitures.

 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value (the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of 2016 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options). The Company’s closing stock price on December 31, 2016 was $30.88.

 

There were no stock options granted during 2016. The per share weighted average fair value of stock options granted during 2014 was $7.50, on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes Option-Pricing Model with the following weighted average assumptions:

   2014
Dividend yield   1.02%
Expected volatility   40%
Expected life   7 Years
Risk-free interest rate   2.18%

 

As of December 31, 2016, there was approximately $5 thousand of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the Company’s stock incentive plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 0.34 years.

 

The Company issued stock awards/units in 2016, 2015 and 2014. The stock awards were either service based awards or performance based awards. The service based awards vest ratably over a three or five year period. The performance based awards that were granted in prior periods, are dependent upon the Company meeting certain performance criteria and cliff vest at the end of the performance period. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company concluded that the performance targets for the 2014 and 2015 grants will no longer be met and therefore, reversed approximately $592 thousand of previously recorded expense for the performance awards. Total unrecognized compensation expense for performance based

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awards is $1.7 million as of December 31, 2016. The Company does not expect the performance based awards to vest. As of December 31, 2016, there was $4.6 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested shares, which is expected to vest over 1.5 years. Total stock-based compensation expense recognized for stock awards totaled $2.8 million, $1.5 million and $1.5 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, while total stock-based compensation expense recognized for stock options was $56 thousand, $219 thousand and $234 thousand for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Changes in nonvested shares dependent on performance criteria for 2016 were as follows:

 

       Weighted 
       Average 
   Number of   Grant Date 
   Shares   Fair Value 
Balance, January 1, 2016   92,767   $18.12 
Granted during 2016        
Vested during 2016        
Forfeited during 2016        
Balance, December 31, 2016   92,767   $18.12 

 

Changes in nonvested shares/units not dependent on performance criteria for 2016 were as follows:

 

       Weighted 
       Average 
   Number of   Grant Date 
   Shares   Fair Value 
Balance, January 1, 2016   321,421   $19.44 
Granted during 2016   188,397    16.99 
Vested during 2016   (118,343)   19.05 
Forfeited during 2016   (23,345)   18.75 
Balance, December 31, 2016   368,130   $19.26 

 

13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

The Company, in the ordinary course of business, is a party to litigation arising from the conduct of its business. Management does not consider that these actions depart from routine legal proceedings and believes that such actions will not affect its financial position or results of its operations in any material manner. There are various outstanding commitments and contingencies, such as guarantees and credit extensions, including mostly variable-rate loan commitments of $434.4 million and $282.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, which are not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. These commitments include unused commercial and home equity lines of credit.

 

The Company issues financial standby letters of credit that are irrevocable undertakings by the Company to guarantee payment of a specified financial obligation. Most of the Company’s financial standby letters of credit arise in connection with lending relations and have terms of one year or less. The maximum potential future payments the Company could be required to make equals the contract amount of the standby letters of credit and amounted to $12.8 million and $10.4 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The fair value of the Company’s liability for financial standby letters of credit was insignificant at December 31, 2016.

 

For commitments to originate loans, the Company’s maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. Those commitments represent ultimate exposure to credit risk only to the extent that they are subsequently drawn upon by customers. The Company uses the same credit policies and underwriting standards in making loan commitments as it does for on-balance-sheet instruments. For loan commitments, the Company would generally be exposed to interest rate risk from the time a commitment is issued with a defined contractual interest rate.

 

At December 31, 2016, the Company was obligated under non-cancelable operating leases for certain premises. Rental expense aggregated $2.4 million, $2.6 million and $2.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 respectively, which is included in premises and equipment expense in the consolidated statements of income.

 

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The minimum annual lease payments under the terms of the operating lease agreements, as of December 31, 2016, were as follows:

 

(In thousands)    
2017  $1,821 
2018   1,670 
2019   1,364 
2020   1,358 
2021   1,155 
Thereafter   1,953 
  Total  $9,321 

 

The Company is also obligated under legally binding and enforceable agreements to purchase goods and services from third parties, including data processing service agreements.

 

14. REGULATORY CAPITAL

 

Banks and bank holding companies are subject to regulatory capital requirements administered by federal banking agencies. Capital adequacy guidelines and, additionally for banks, prompt corrective action regulations, involve quantitative measures of assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items calculated under regulatory accounting practices.  Capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by 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 the Company’s and the Bank’s financial statements and results of operations.  The final rules implementing Basel Committee on Banking Supervision’s capital guidelines for U.S. banks (Basel III rules) became effective for the Company on January 1, 2015 with full compliance with all of the requirements being phased in over a multi-year schedule, and fully phased in by January 1, 2019. The Company has chosen to exclude net unrealized gain or loss on available for sale securities in computing regulatory capital.  Management believes that as of December 31, 2016, the Company and Bank meet all capital adequacy requirements to which they are subject.

 

Prompt corrective action regulations provide five classifications:  well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and critically undercapitalized, although these terms are not used to represent overall financial condition. Adequately capitalized institutions must obtain prior regulatory approval to accept brokered deposits. The federal banking agencies are required to take certain supervisory actions (and may take additional discretionary actions) with respect to an undercapitalized institution or its holding company. If an institution is classified as undercapitalized, it is required to submit a capital restoration plan to its federal banking regulators and is prohibited from increasing its assets, engaging in a new line of business, acquiring any interest in any company or insured depository institution, or opening or acquiring a new branch office, except under certain circumstances, including the acceptance by the federal banking regulators of a capital restoration plan for the institution. Furthermore, if an institution is classified as undercapitalized, the federal banking regulators may take certain actions to correct the capital position of the institution. If an institution is classified as significantly undercapitalized or critically undercapitalized, the federal banking regulators would be required to take one or more prompt corrective actions. These actions would include, among other things, requiring sales of new securities to bolster capital, improvements in management, limits on interest rates paid, prohibitions on transactions with affiliates, termination of certain risky activities and restrictions on compensation paid to executive officers. If a bank is classified as critically undercapitalized, the bank must be placed into conservatorship or receivership within 90 days, unless the federal banking regulators determined that other action would better achieve the purposes of the prompt corrective action regime. Any of the foregoing regulatory actions could have a direct material effect on an institution’s or its holding company’s financial statements. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the most recent regulatory notifications categorized the Bank as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.  There are no conditions or events since that notification that Management believes have changed the Company’s category.

 

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To be categorized as well capitalized, the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I risk-based, common equity Tier 1 and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table.

 

The Bank’s actual capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:

 

       To Be Well       For Capital 
       Capitalized Under   For Capital   Adequacy Purposes 
       Prompt Corrective   Adequacy   Including Capital 
   Actual   Action Provisions   Purposes   Conservation Buffer (A) 
(Dollars in thousands)  Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio 
As of December 31, 2016:                                
  Total capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  $392,305    12.87%  $304,758    10.00%  $243,806    8.00%  $262,854    8.625%
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   360,097    11.82    243,806    8.00    182,855    6.00    201,902    6.625 
                                         
  Common equity tier I                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   360,094    11.82    198,093    6.50    137,141    4.50    156,188    5.125 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to average assets)   360,097    9.31    193,430    5.00    154,744    4.00    154,744    4.00 
                                         
As of December 31, 2015:                                        
  Total capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  $297,497    11.32%  $262,719    10.00%  $210,176    8.00%   N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   271,641    10.34    210,176    8.00    157,632    6.00    N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Common equity tier I                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   271,641    10.34    170,768    6.50    118,224    4.50    N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to average assets)   271,641    8.04    169,027    5.00    135,221    4.00    N/A    N/A 

 

The Company’s actual capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:

 

       To Be Well       For Capital 
       Capitalized Under   For Capital   Adequacy Purposes 
       Prompt Corrective   Adequacy   Including Capital 
   Actual   Action Provisions   Purposes   Conservation Buffer (A) 
(Dollars in thousands)  Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio 
As of December 31, 2016:                                
  Total capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  $404,017    13.25%   N/A    N/A  $243,910    8.00%  $262,966    8.625%
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   323,045    10.60    N/A    N/A    182,933    6.00    201,988    6.625 
                                         
  Common equity tier I                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   323,042    10.60    N/A    N/A    137,200    4.50    156,255    5.125 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to average assets)   323,045    8.35    N/A    N/A    154,788    4.00    154,788    4.00 
                                         
As of December 31, 2015:                                        
  Total capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)  $299,593    11.40%  N/A    N/A  $210,209    8.00%   N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   273,738    10.42    N/A    N/A    157,657    6.00    N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Common equity tier I                                        
  (to risk-weighted assets)   273,738    10.42    N/A    N/A    118,242    4.50    N/A    N/A 
                                         
  Tier I capital                                        
  (to average assets)   273,738    8.10    N/A    N/A    135,237    4.00    N/A    N/A 
                                         

 

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(A)

When fully phased in on January 1, 2019, the Basel Rules will require the Company and the Bank to maintain a 2.5% “capital conservation buffer” on top of the minimum risk-weighted asset ratios. The capital conservation buffer is designed to absorb losses during periods of economic stress. Banking institutions with a ratio of (i) CET1 to risk-weighted assets, (ii) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets or (iii) total capital to risk-weighted assets above the respective minimum but below the capital conservation buffer will face constraints on dividends, equity repurchases and discretionary bonus payments to executive officers based on the amount of the shortfall. The implementation of the capital conservation buffer began on January 1, 2016 at the 0.625% level and will increase by 0.625% on each subsequent January 1, until it reaches 2.5% on January 1, 2019.

 

15. DERIVATIVES

 

The Company utilizes interest rate swap agreements as part of its asset liability management strategy to help manage its interest rate risk position. The notional amount of the interest rate swaps does not represent amounts exchanged by the parties. The amount exchanged is determined by reference to the notional amount and the other terms of the individual interest rate swap agreements.

 

Interest Rate Swap Designated as Cash Flow Hedge: Interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $180 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were designated as a cash flow hedges of certain interest-bearing demand brokered deposits and were determined to be fully effective during 2016 and 2015. As such, no amount of ineffectiveness has been included in net income. Therefore, the aggregate fair value of these swaps is recorded in other assets/liabilities with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income. The amount included in accumulated other comprehensive income would be reclassified to current earnings should the hedges no longer be considered effective. The Company expects the hedges to remain fully effective during the remaining terms of the swaps.

 

Information about the interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 is presented in the following table:

 

 

(Dollars in thousands)  2016   2015 
Notional amount  $180,000   $180,000 
Weighted average pay rate   1.64%   1.64%
Weighted average receive rate   0.58%   0.29%
Weighted average maturity   3.25 years   4.25 years
Unrealized loss, net  $(744)  $(1,330)

 

Net Interest expense recorded on these swap transactions totaled approximately $2.0 million and $1.6 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and is reported as a component of interest expense.

 

Cash Flow Hedge

 

The following table presents the net gains/(losses) recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and the consolidated financial statements relating to the cash flow derivative instruments for the year ended December 31:

 

2016
           Amount of 
   Amount of   Amount of   Gain/(Loss) 
   Gain/(Loss)   Gain/(Loss)   Recognized in 
   Recognized   Reclassified   Other Non-Interest 
   In OCI   From OCI to   Expense 
(In thousands)  (Effective Portion)   Interest Expense   (Ineffective Portion) 
Interest rate contracts  $587   $   $ 

 

 

2015
           Amount of 
   Amount of   Amount of   Gain/(Loss) 
   Gain/(Loss)   Gain/(Loss)   Recognized in 
   Recognized   Reclassified   Other Non-Interest 
   In OCI   From OCI to   Expense 
(In thousands)  (Effective Portion)   Interest Expense   (Ineffective Portion) 
Interest rate contracts  $(1,162)  $   $ 

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The following tables reflect the cash flow hedges included in the financial statements as of December 31, 2016 and 2015:

 

   December 31, 2016 
   Notional   Fair 
(In thousands)  Amount   Value 
  Interest rate swaps related to interest-bearing          
     demand brokered deposits  $180,000   $(744)
Total included in other assets   30,000    123 
Total included in other liabilities  $150,000   $(867)

 

   December 31, 2015 
   Notional   Fair 
(In thousands)  Amount   Value 
  Interest rate swaps related to interest-bearing          
     demand brokered deposits  $180,000   $(1,330)
Total included in other assets   15,000    104 
Total included in other liabilities  $165,000   $(1,434)

 

Derivatives Not Designated as Accounting Hedges: Beginning in 2015, the Company offered facility specific/loan level swaps to its customers and offset its exposure from such contracts by entering into mirror image swaps with a financial institution/swap counterparty (loan level / back to back swap program). The customer accommodations and any offsetting swaps are treated as non-hedging derivative instruments which do not qualify for hedge accounting. The notional amount of the swaps does not represent amounts exchanged by the parties. The amount exchanged is determined by reference to the notional amount and the other terms of the individual contracts. The fair value of the swaps is recorded as both an asset and a liability, in other assets and other liabilities, respectively, in equal amounts for these transactions.

 

Information about these swaps is as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015 
Notional amount  $126,810   $27,259 
Fair value  $1,543   $1,106 
Weighted average pay rates   3.75%   3.06%
Weighted average receive rates   2.65%   1.44%
Weighted average maturity   9.4 years   15.8 years

 

16. SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY

 

In December 2014, the Company successfully completed the sale of 2,776,215 common shares in its “at-the-market” equity offering program announced on October 23, 2014. The common shares in the offering were sold at a weighted average price of $18.01 per share, representing proceeds to the Company of $48.4 million, net of offering costs of $216 thousand. The Board of Directors authorized the Company to contribute $48.2 million of the proceeds received from the equity offering to the Bank as equity. The Company contributed the cash prior to year-end 2014.

 

In addition, the Dividend Reinvestment Plan of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation, or the Plan, allows shareholders of the Company to purchase additional shares of common stock using cash dividends without payment of any brokerage commissions or other charges. Shareholders may also make voluntary cash payments of up to $200,000 per quarter to purchase additional shares of common stock. The Plan provides that shares may be purchased directly from the Company out of its authorized but unissued or treasury shares, or in the open market. During 2016 and 2015 the shares purchased under the Plan were from authorized but unissued shares. The price of shares purchased under the Plan will be the average price paid for such shares by the Plan’s administrator, Computershare Investor Services. The price to the Plan administrator of shares purchased directly from Peapack-Gladstone with reinvested dividends or voluntary cash payments will be 97 percent of their “fair market value,” as that term is herein defined in the Plan. The three percent discount will continue until terminated or modified by action of the Board of Directors. Total shares issued through the Plan in 2016 totaled 1,137,998 and resulted in additional capital of $22.5 million, of which 1,134,068 shares were issued through the voluntary purchase portion of the Plan. Total shares issued through the Plan in 2015 totaled 665,654 and resulted in additional capital of $13.6 million, of which 661,857 shares were issued through the voluntary purchase portion of the Plan.

 

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17. BUSINESS SEGMENTS

 

The Company assesses its results among two operating segments, Banking and Peapack-Gladstone Bank’s Private Wealth Management Division. Management uses certain methodologies to allocate income and expense to the business segments. A funds transfer pricing methodology is used to assign interest income and interest expense. Certain indirect expenses are allocated to segments. These include support unit expenses such as technology and operations and other support functions. Taxes are allocated to each segment based on the effective rate for the period shown.

 

Banking

 

The Banking segment includes commercial, commercial real estate, multifamily, residential and consumer lending activities; deposit generation; operation of ATMs; telephone and internet banking services; merchant credit card services and customer support and sales.

 

Private Wealth Management Division

 

Peapack-Gladstone Bank’s Private Wealth Management Division includes asset management services provided for individuals and institutions; personal trust services, including services as executor, trustee, administrator, custodian and guardian; corporate trust services including services as trustee for pension and profit sharing plans; and other financial planning and advisory services.

 

The following table presents the statements of income and total assets for the Company’s reportable segments for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014:

 

   Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2016 
       Wealth     
(In thousands)  Banking   Management   Total 
Net interest income  $91,334   $5,101   $96,435 
Noninterest income   10,217    18,701    28,918 
  Total income   101,551    23,802    125,353 
Provision for loan losses   7,500        7,500 
Compensation and benefits   36,463    8,540    45,003 
Premises and equipment expense   10,300    945    11,245 
Other noninterest expense   13,523    5,341    18,864 
  Total noninterest expense   67,786    14,826    82,612 
Income before income tax expense   33,765    8,976    42,741 
Income tax expense   12,772    3,492    16,264 
  Net income  $20,993   $5,484   $26,477 
                
Total assets at period end  $3,832,765   $45,868   $3,878,633 

 

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   Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2015 
       Wealth     
(In thousands)  Banking   Management   Total 
Net interest income  $80,190   $4,262   $84,452 
Noninterest income   6,434    17,280    23,714 
  Total income   86,624    21,542    108,166 
Provision for loan losses   7,100        7,100 
Compensation and benefits   32,133    8,145    40,278 
Premises and equipment expense   10,634    935    11,569 
Other noninterest expense   12,203    4,876    17,079 
  Total noninterest expense   62,070    13,956    76,026 
Income before income tax expense   24,554    7,586    32,140 
Income tax expense   9,217    2,951    12,168 
  Net income  $15,337   $4,635   $19,972 
                
Total assets at period end  $3,326,219   $38,440   $3,364,659 

 

   Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2014 
       Wealth     
(In thousands)  Banking   Management   Total 
Net interest income  $64,148   $3,746   $67,894 
Noninterest income   5,336    15,471    20,807 
  Total income   69,484    19,217    88,701 
Provision for loan losses   4,875        4,875 
Compensation and benefits   28,679    7,562    36,241 
Premises and equipment expense   9,207    756    9,963 
Other noninterest expense   8,922    4,414    13,336 
  Total noninterest expense   51,683    12,732    64,415 
Income before income tax expense   17,801    6,485    24,286 
Income tax expense   6,873    2,523    9,396 
  Net income  $10,928   $3,962   $14,890 
                
Total assets at period end  $2,676,103   $26,294   $2,702,397 

 

18. SUBORDINATED DEBT

 

During June 2016, the Company issued $50.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating subordinated notes (the “Notes”) to certain institutional investors. The Notes are non-callable for five years, have a stated maturity of June 30, 2026, and bear interest at a fixed rate of 6.0% per year until June 30, 2021. From June 30, 2021 to the maturity date or early redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to a level equal to the then current three-month LIBOR rate plus 485 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears. Debt issuance costs incurred totaled $1.3 million and are being amortized to maturity.  Subordinated debt is presented net of issuance cost on the Consolidated Statements of Condition.

 

The subordinated debt issuance benefited the Company’s regulatory total capital amount and ratio. Approximately $40.0 million of the net proceeds from the sale of the Notes were used by the Company to contribute capital to the Bank in the second quarter of 2016. The remaining funds (approximately $10 million) were retained by the Company and are intended to cover future subordinated debt interest payments.

 

In connection with the issuance of the Notes, the Company obtained ratings from Kroll Bond Rating Agency (“KBRA”). KBRA assigned investment grade rating of BBB- for the Company’s subordinated debt.

 

19. ACQUISITION

 

On May 1, 2015, the Company acquired Wealth Management Consultants. The acquisition is consistent with the Company’s strategy to grow its wealth management business with a focus on high net worth clients.  The purchase price was $2.8 million and included cash, common stock and common stock warrants. Acquisition related costs were not

96 

material. In accordance with FASB ASC 805-10 (Subtopic 25-15), the Company has up to one year from date of acquisition to complete this assessment.

 

The fair value of the common shares and warrants issued as part of the consideration was determined based on the closing price of the Company’s common shares on the acquisition date.

 

The acquisition resulted in goodwill of $1.0 million and customer relationship and other intangibles of $1.8 million. The following table summarizes the consideration paid and the amounts of the assets acquired. No liabilities were assumed at the acquisition date:

 

Consideration (in thousands)    
  Cash  $800 
  Equity Instruments   2,000 
Fair value of total consideration transferred  $2,800 
      
Recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired     
  Customer relationship intangible  $1,685 
  Other intangibles   105 
  Goodwill   1,010 
Total assets acquired  $2,800 

 

Equity instruments paid as a part of consideration included common stock shares of 47,916 and common stock warrants of 139,860 worth $1 thousand. The per share weighted average fair value of the stock warrants on acquisition date was $7.15. The Company calculated the value using the Black-Scholes Option-Pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions.

 

Dividend yield   0.93%
Expected volatility   33.73%
Expected life   7  Years
Risk-free interest rate   1.84%

 

 

Goodwill totaled $1.6 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015. Of the $1.6 million of goodwill, $563 thousand relates to the Banking segment and $1.0 million relates to the Wealth Management segment. Outside of goodwill, the only other intangible with an indefinite life was the assembled workforce intangible asset totaling $49 thousand.

 

The Company conducted its annual impairment analysis and concluded that there is no impairment of goodwill.

 

Acquired intangible assets that have a definite life were as follows at December 31, 2016.

 

   Gross   Gross     
   Carrying   Accumulated     
(In thousands)  Amount   Amount   Net 
Amortized intangible assets:               
  Customer relationships  $1,685   $187   $1,498 
  Non-compete agreement   56    19    37 
Total  $1,741   $206   $1,535 

 

Acquired intangible assets that have a definite life were as follows at December 31, 2015.

 

   Gross   Gross     
   Carrying   Accumulated     
(In thousands)  Amount   Amount   Net 
Amortized intangible assets:               
  Customer relationships  $1,685   $75   $1,610 
  Non-compete agreement   56    7    49 
Total  $1,741   $82   $1,659 

 

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Aggregate amortization expense was $124 thousand and $82 thousand for 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Estimated amortization expense for each of the next five years is shown in the table below.

 

(In thousands)     
 2017   $123 
 2018    123 
 2019    123 
 2020    116 
 2021    112 
 Total   $597 

 

20. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS)

 

The following is a summary of the accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) balances, net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014:

 

           Amount   Other     
           Reclassified   Comprehensive     
       Other   From   Loss/(Gain)     
       Comprehensive   Accumulated   Twelve Months     
   Balance at   Loss/(Gain)   Other   Ended   Balance at 
   December 31,   Before   Comprehensive   December 31,   December 31, 
(In thousands)  2015   Reclassifications   Loss   2016   2016 
Net unrealized holding                         
  gain/(loss)on securities                         
  available for sale,                         
  net of tax  $408   $(1,424)  $(75)  $(1,499)  $(1,091)
                          
Losses on cash flow hedge  $(787)  $347   $   $347   $(440)
                          
Accumulated other                         
  comprehensive loss,                         
      net of tax  $(379)  $(1,077)  $(75)  $(1,152)  $(1,531)

 

           Amount   Other     
           Reclassified   Comprehensive     
       Other   from   (Loss)     
       Comprehensive   Accumulated   Twelve Months     
   Balance at   (Loss)   Other   Ended   Balance at 
   December 31,   Before   Comprehensive   December 31,   December 31, 
(In thousands)  2014   Reclassifications   Income   2015   2015 
Net unrealized holding                         
  gain/(loss) on securities                         
  available for sale,                         
  net of tax  $1,321   $(602)  $(311)  $(913)  $408 
                          
Losses on cash flow hedge   (100)  $(687)  $   $(687)  $(787)
                          
Accumulated other                         
  comprehensive income/(loss),                         
      net of tax  $1,221   $(1,289)  $(311)  $(1,600)  $(379)

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           Amount   Other     
           Reclassified   Comprehensive     
       Other   from   Income     
       Comprehensive   Accumulated   Twelve Months     
   Balance at   Income   Other   Ended   Balance at 
   December 31,   Before   Comprehensive   December 31,   December 31, 
(In thousands)  2013   Reclassifications   Income   2014   2014 
Net unrealized holding                         
  gain/(loss) on securities                         
  available for sale,                         
  net of tax  $23   $1,467   $(169)  $1,298   $1,321 
                          
Losses on cash flow hedge  $   $(100)  $   $(100)  $(100)
                          
Accumulated other                         
  comprehensive income/(loss),                         
      net of tax  $23   $1,367   $(169)  $1,198   $1,221 

 

The following represents the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014:

 

   Twelve Months Ended    
   December 31,    
(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014   Affected Line Item in Statements of Income
Unrealized gains/(losses) on                  
  Realized gain on securities sales, AFS  $119   $527   $260   Securities gains, net
  Income tax expense   (44)   (216)   (91)  Income tax expense
    Total reclassifications, net of tax  $75   $311   $169    
                   

 

21. CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF PEAPACK-GLADSTONE FINANCIAL CORPORATION (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)

 

STATEMENTS OF CONDITION

   December 31, 
(In thousands)  2016   2015 
Assets        
Cash  $10,330   $1,489 
Interest-earning deposits   515    515 
  Total cash and cash equivalents   10,845    2,004 
Investment in subsidiary   361,262    273,580 
Other assets   1,303    414 
  Total assets  $373,410   $275,998 
Liabilities          
Subordinated debt  $48,764   $ 
Other liabilities   436    322 
  Total liabilities   49,200    322 
Shareholders’ equity          
Common stock   14,717    13,717 
Surplus   238,708    213,203 
Treasury stock   (8,988)   (8,988)
Retained earnings   81,304    58,123 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (1,531)   (379)
    Total shareholders’ equity   324,210    275,676 
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity  $373,410   $275,998 

 

99 

STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Income            
Dividend from Bank  $   $   $ 
Other income   1    1    1 
  Total income   1    1    1 
Expenses               
Interest expenses   1,696         
Other expenses   699    525    637 
  Total expenses   2,395    525    637 
Loss before income tax benefit and               
  equity in undistributed earnings of Bank   (2,394)   (524)   (636)
Income tax benefit   (835)   (180)   (216)
Net loss before equity in undistributed earnings of Bank   (1,559)   (344)   (420)
Equity in               
  undistributed earnings of Bank/(dividends in excess of earnings)   28,036    20,316    15,310 
  Net income  $26,477   $19,972   $14,890 
Other comprehensive (loss)/income   (1,152)   (1,600)   1,198 
  Comprehensive income  $25,325   $18,372   $16,088 

 

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(In thousands)  2016   2015   2014 
Cash flows from operating activities:               
Net income  $26,477   $19,972   $14,890 
Undistributed earnings of Bank   (28,036)   (20,316)   (15,310)
Amortization of subordinated debt costs   71         
(Increase)/decrease in other assets   (889)   (194)   427 
Increase/(decrease) in other liabilities   114    81    (63)
  Net cash used in operating activities   (2,263)   (457)   (56)
                
Cash flows from investing activities:               
Capital contribution to subsidiary   (57,823)   (18,000)   (88,674)
  Net cash used in investing activities   (57,823)   (18,000)   (88,674)
                
Cash flows from financing activities:               
Cash dividends paid on common stock   (3,296)   (3,100)   (2,414)
Exercise of stock options, net of stock swaps   1,069    86    174 
Proceeds from issuance of subordinated debt   48,693           
Net proceeds, rights offering           48,358 
Issuance of common shares (DRIP program)   22,461    13,648    7,429 
Purchase of shares for Profit Sharing Plan           70 
  Net cash provided by financing activities   68,927    10,634    53,617 
                
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents   8,841    (7,823)   (35,113)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period   2,004    9,827    44,940 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period  $10,845   $2,004   $9,827 

 

100 

 

21.       SUPPLEMENTAL DATA (unaudited)

 

The following table sets forth certain unaudited quarterly financial data for the periods indicated:

 

Selected 2016 Quarterly Data:
(In thousands, except per share data)  March 31   June 30   September 30   December 31 
Interest income  $27,898   $29,035   $29,844   $30,271 
Interest expense   4,488    4,859    5,575    5,691 
  Net interest income   23,410    24,176    24,269    24,580 
Provision for loan losses   1,700    2,200    2,100    1,500 
Trust fees   4,295    4,899    4,436    4,610 
Securities gains/(losses), net   101    18         
Other income   1,867    2,531    3,099    3,062 
Operating expenses   19,206    18,775    18,166    18,965 
  Income before income tax expense   8,767    10,649    11,538    11,787 
Income tax expense   3,278    4,085    4,422    4,479 
  Net income  $5,489   $6,564   $7,116   $7,308 
                     
Earnings per share-basic  $0.35   $0.41   $0.43   $0.44 
Earnings per share-diluted   0.34    0.40    0.43    0.43 

 

Selected 2015 Quarterly Data:
(In thousands, except per share data)  March 31   June 30   September 30   December 31 
Interest income  $22,361   $23,852   $25,806   $27,123 
Interest expense   2,778    3,508    4,100    4,304 
  Net interest income   19,583    20,344    21,706    22,819 
Provision for loan losses   1,350    2,200    1,600    1,950 
Wealth management fee income   4,031    4,532    4,169    4,307 
Securities gains/(losses), net   268    176    83     
Other income   1,583    1,791    1,358    1,416 
Operating expenses   15,768    16,266    16,899    19,993 
  Income before income tax expense   8,347    8,377    8,817    6,599 
Income tax expense   3,339    3,139    3,434    2,256 
  Net income  $5,008   $5,238   $5,383   $4,343 
                     
Earnings per share-basic  $0.34   $0.34   $0.35   $0.28 
Earnings per share-diluted   0.33    0.34    0.35    0.28 

 

Selected 2014 Quarterly Data:
(In thousands, except per share data)  March 31   June 30   September 30   December 31 
Interest income  $16,949   $18,630   $19,210   $20,786 
Interest expense   1,378    1,707    2,162    2,434 
  Net interest income   15,571    16,923    17,048    18,352 
Provision for loan losses   1,325    1,150    1,150    1,250 
Wealth management fee income   3,754    4,005    3,661    3,822 
Securities gains/(losses), net   98    79    39    44 
Other income   1,143    1,389    1,352    1,421 
Operating expenses   14,339    14,930    14,693    15,578 
  Income before income tax expense   4,902    6,316    6,257    6,811 
Income tax expense   1,871    2,533    2,393    2,599 
  Net income  $3,031   $3,783   $3,864   $4,212 
                     
Earnings per share-basic  $0.26   $0.32   $0.33   $0.32 
Earnings per share-diluted   0.26    0.32    0.32    0.32 

 

101 

 

Item 9.CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

 

Item 9A.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Management’s Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

The Company maintains “disclosure controls and procedures” which, consistent with Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is defined to mean controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and to ensure that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s Management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

The Company’s Management, with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on such evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

The Company’s Management, including the CEO and CFO, does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or our internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, provides reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. The design of a control system reflects resource constraints; the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because there are inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been or will be detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns occur because of simple error or mistake. Controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by Management override of the controls. The design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events. There can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all future conditions; over time, control may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2016, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

The Company’s Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s Management and board of Directors regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. In addition, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

As of December 31, 2016 Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in 2013 Internal Control-Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (“COSO”) of the Treadway Commission.

102 

Management’s assessment included an evaluation of the design of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting and testing of the operating effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. Management reviewed the results of its assessment with the Audit and Risk Committees.

 

Based on this assessment, Management determined that, as of December 31, 2016, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

Crowe Horwath LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the Company’s December 31, 2016 consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, has issued an audit report expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016. The report is included in Item 8 under the heading “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.”

 

Item 9B.OTHER INFORMATION

 

None.

 

PART III

 

Item 10.DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 

The information set forth under the captions “Director Information,” “Corporate Governance” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the 2017 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Executive Officer Age Date Became an Executive Officer Current Position and Business Experience
Douglas L. Kennedy 60 October 9, 2012 Chief Executive Officer
Finn M.W. Caspersen, Jr. 47 January 1, 2008 Chief Strategy Officer, General Counsel
Jeffrey J. Carfora 58 March 30, 2009 Chief Financial Officer
Vincent A. Spero 51 November 19, 2009 Head of Commercial Real Estate
Anthony B. Bilotta, Jr. 56 September 16, 2013 Director of Retail Banking and Marketing
John P. Babcock 59 March 10, 2014 President of Private Wealth Management
Eric H. Waser 56 February 17, 2015 Head of Commercial Banking
Lisa P. Chalkan 52 April 21, 2016 Chief Credit Officer
Robert A. Plante 57 March 20, 2017 Chief Operating Officer

 

Mr. Kennedy joined the Bank in October 2012 as Chief Executive Officer. He is a career banker with over 39 years of commercial banking experience. Previously, Mr. Kennedy served as Executive Vice President and Market President at Capital One Bank/North Fork Bank and held key executive level positions with Summit Bank and Bank of American/Fleet Bank. Mr. Kennedy has a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and a MBA from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut.

 

Mr. Caspersen has nearly 22 years of experience, including 13 years in the Banking industry. Mr. Caspersen joined the Bank as Chief Risk Officer in March 2004 and was promoted to General Counsel in May 2006. He was elected to the Board of Directors in April 2012. Mr. Caspersen was named Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel in 2013. Prior to joining the Bank, Mr. Caspersen worked in the fields of venture capital, investment banking and corporate law. Mr. Caspersen is a graduate of Harvard Law School and Harvard College.

 

Mr. Carfora joined the Bank in April 2009 as Chief Financial Officer having previously served as a Transitional Officer with New York Community Bank from April 2007 until January 2008 as a result of a merger with PennFed Financial Services Inc. and Penn Federal Savings Bank (collectively referred to as “PennFed”). Previous to the merger, Mr. Carfora served as Chief Operating Officer of PennFed from October 2001 until April 2007 and Chief Financial Officer from December 1993 to October 2001. Mr. Carfora has nearly 37 years of experience, including 34 years in the Banking industry. Mr. Carfora has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and a MBA in Finance, both from Fairleigh Dickinson University and is a Certified Public Accountant.

 

103 

Mr. Spero joined the Bank in June 2008 as Senior Vice President and Senior Commercial Lender and was named Head of Commercial Real Estate for the Bank in 2016. Mr. Spero has over 28 years of banking experience and previously served as Senior Vice President and Commercial Loan Team Leader at Lakeland Bank, a subsidiary of Lakeland Bancorp from May 2000 to May 2008. Mr. Spero is a graduate of Wagner College and attended Fairleigh Dickinson University in their MBA program.

 

Mr. Bilotta joined the Bank in September 2013 as director of retail banking and marketing. Mr. Bilotta has over 33 years of banking experience, most recently with Oritani Bank where he was responsible for the retail banking and marketing functions. Mr. Bilotta is a graduate of Thomas Edison State College and the Bank Administration Institute at the University of Wisconsin.

 

Mr. Babcock joined the Bank in March 2014 as Senior Executive Vice President and President of Private Wealth Management of Peapack-Gladstone Bank. Mr. Babcock has more than 36 years of experience in wealth management and private banking, most recently serving as managing director and the regional head of the Northeast Mid-Atlantic region for the HSBC Private Bank. Prior to HSBC, Mr. Babcock held senior level positions at U.S. Trust/Bank of America, The Bank of New York and Summit/Fleet Bank. He has a Bachelor’s degree from the A. B. Freeman School of Business at Tulane University and an MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

 

Eric H. Waser joined the bank in February 2015 as Executive Vice President and Head of Commercial Banking at Peapack-Gladstone Bank. Mr. Waser has more than 26 years of experience in financial services and private banking, most recently serving as managing director for Citibank’s East Business Banking Division.  Prior to Citibank, Mr. Waser held senior level positions at Mid Atlantic Corporate Banking, Sovereign Bank and Fleet Boston Financial/Nat West Bank.  Mr. Waser holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana University, Kelly School of Business and has taught extensively on advanced credit, sales and leadership training topics and programs.

 

Lisa P. Chalkan joined the bank in April 2015. Ms. Chalkan has more than 30 years of financial services experience with a concentration in risk management, credit administration, underwriting and managing of policies and procedures. Ms. Chalkan was promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer in April 2016. Prior to joining Peapack-Gladstone Bank in 2015, Ms. Chalkan served key roles at Capital One N.A. as Senior Vice President, Head of Commercial Policy; Director of Loan Administration/Commercial Banking; and Manager of Middle Market Underwriting/New Jersey where she was responsible for defining the credit parameters and authorities for commercial business and the build-out of a centralized credit administration team. Prior to her tenure at Capital One, Lisa held key positions at Fleet Boston Financial/Bank of America, and HSBC Bank USA/HSBC Securities, Inc. as Vice President, Underwriting Manager, in Small Business Services and Risk Review Field Manager, respectively. Ms. Chalkan holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from Rutgers University.

 

Mr. Plante will be joining the bank in March 2017 as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Plante is a seasoned executive, proficient in tactical and operational leadership within the financial services industry. From 2012 to the present, Mr. Plante served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Israel Discount Bank of New York. From 2008 to 2011, Mr. Plante served as Chief Information Officer at IDB of NY. Prior to IDB of NY, Mr. Plante was Chief Information Officer for The CIT Group, a global commercial and consumer finance company. Prior to CIT, he also held senior positions with GE Capital Global Consumer Finance and with the Geary Corporation, a privately held IT consulting Company.

 

Item 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

The information set forth under the captions “Executive Compensation,” “Director Compensation,” “Compensation Committee Report” and “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in the 2017 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

104 

 

Item 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

 

The following table shows information at December 31, 2016 for all equity compensation plans under which shares of our common stock may be issued:

 

         Number of Securities
         Remaining Available
         For Future Issuance
   Number of Securities     Under Equity
   To be Issued Upon  Weighted-Average  Compensation Plans
   Exercise of  Exercise Price of  (Excluding Securities
Plan Category  Outstanding Options  Outstanding Options  Reflected in Column
          
Equity               
Compensation               
Plans Approved               
By Security               
Holders   179,159    $16.27    1,442,381 
                
Equity               
Compensation               
Plans Not               
Approved By               
Security Holders   N/A    N/A    N/A 
     Total   179,159    $16.27    1,442,381 

 

The information set forth under the captions “Beneficial Ownership of Common Stock” in the 2017 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 13.CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

 

The information set forth under the captions “Transactions with Related Persons, Promoters and Certain Control Persons” and “Corporate Governance” in the 2017 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Item 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

 

The information set forth under the captions “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” and “Audit Committee Pre-approval Procedures” in the 2017 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

 

105 

 

PART IV

 

Item 15.EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 

(a) Financial Statements and Schedules:
   
(1) Consolidated Financial Statements of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation.
  Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
  Consolidated Statements of Condition as of December 31, 2016 and 2015.
  Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.
  Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.
  Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.
  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.
  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

The Consolidated Financial Statements of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation as set forth in Item 8 of Part II of this Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 are incorporated by reference herein.

 

All financial statement schedules are omitted because they are either inapplicable or not required, or because the required information is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or notes thereto contained in this 2016 Annual Report.

 

(b) Exhibits

 

  (3)   Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws:
       
    A. Certificate of Incorporation as incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed on November 9, 2009 (SEC File No. 001-16197).
       
    B. By-Laws of the Registrant as in effect on the date of this filing are incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on January 26, 2015.
       
  (4)   Instruments Defining the Rights of Security Holders
       
    A. Indenture, dated June 15, 2016, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on June 15, 2016.
     
    B. First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of June 15, 2016, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on June 15, 2016.
     

 

(10)Material Contracts:

 

A.“Directors’ Retirement Plan” dated as of March 31, 2001, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10 (J) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2003 (SEC File No. 001-16197). +

 

B.“Directors’ Deferral Plan” dated as of March 31, 2001, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10 (K) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2003 (SEC File No. 001-16197). +

 

C.Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 1998 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors and Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2002 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors, each as amended and restated through December 8, 2005, are incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 and Exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on December 14, 2005 (SEC File No. 001-16197). +

106 

D.Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation Amended and Restated 1998 Stock Option Plan and Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation Amended and Restated 2002 Stock Option Plan are incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 and Exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on January 13, 2006 (SEC File No. 001-16197). +

 

E.Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2006 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed on May 10, 2006 (SEC File No. 001-16197). +

 

F.(1) Form of Restricted Stock Agreement, (2) Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for Outside Directors, (3) Form of Time-Based/Performance-Based Restricted Stock Agreement (4) Form of Non-qualified Stock Option Agreement, (5) Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement and (6) Form of Non-qualified Stock Option Agreement for Outside Directors under the Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2012 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibits 10(H)(1), 10(H)(2), 10(H)(3), 10(H)(4), 10(H)(5) and 10(H)(6) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013. +

 

G.(1) Form of Non-qualified Stock Option Agreement, (2) Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement, (3) Form of Non-qualified Stock Option Agreement for Outside Directors under the Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2006 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(I)(2), 10(I)(3) and 10(I)(4) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012. +

 

H.Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2012 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed on November 7, 2016.+

 

I.“Employment Agreement” dated as of December 4, 2013, by and among the Company, the Bank and Douglas L. Kennedy incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(L) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013. +

 

J.“Amended and Restated Employment Agreement” dated as of December 4, 2013, by and among the Company, the Bank and Finn M.W. Caspersen, Jr. incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(N) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013 +

 

K.“Amended and Restated Employment Agreement” dated as of December 4, 2013, by and among the Company, the Bank and Jeffrey J. Carfora incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(O) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013. +

 

L.“Amended and Restated Employment Agreement” dated as of December 4, 2013, by and among the Company, the Bank and Vincent A. Spero incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(P) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013. +

 

M.“Employment Agreement” dated as of December 4, 2013, by and among the Company, the Bank and Anthony V. Bilotta, Jr. +*

 

N.“Employment Agreement” dated as of March 10, 2014, by and among the Company, the Bank and John P. Babcock. +*

 

O.“Employment Agreement” dated as of February 17, 2015, by and among the Company, the Bank and Eric H. Waser. +*

 

107 

P.“Change in Control Agreement” dated as of December 4, 2013, by and among the Company, the Bank and Douglas L. Kennedy incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(Q) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013. +

 

Q.“Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement” dated as of December 4, 2013, by and among the Company, the Bank and Finn M. W. Caspersen, Jr. incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(R) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013+

 

R.“Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement” dated as of December 4, 2013, by and among the Company, the Bank and Jeffrey J. Carfora incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(S) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013. +

 

S.“Amended and Restated Change in Control Agreement” dated as of December 4, 2013, by and among the Company, the Bank and Vincent A. Spero incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(T) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2013.+

 

  (21)   List of Subsidiaries:

(a) Subsidiaries of the Company:

 

 

Name

 

Jurisdiction

of Incorporation

Percentage of Voting

Securities Owned by

the Parent

     
Peapack-Gladstone Bank New Jersey 100%

 

(b) Subsidiaries of the Bank:

 

Name

   
     
PGB Trust and Investments of Delaware Delaware 100%
Peapack-Gladstone Mortgage Group New Jersey 100%
BGP RRE Holdings, LLC New Jersey 100%
BGP CRE Painter Farm, LLC New Jersey 100%
BGP CRE Heritage, LLC New Jersey 100%
BGP CRE K&P Holdings, LLC New Jersey 100%
BGP CRE Office Property, LLC New Jersey 100%
PG Investment Company of Delaware Delaware 100%
Peapack-Gladstone Realty, Inc. New Jersey 100%
Peapack-Gladstone Financial Services, Inc. (Inactive)

 

New Jersey

 

100%

 

(23)Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm:

 

(23.1)Consent of Crowe Horwath LLP*

 

(24)Power of Attorney*

 

(31.1)Certification of Douglas L. Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of Peapack-Gladstone, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

 

(31.2)Certification of Jeffrey J. Carfora, Chief Financial Officer of Peapack-Gladstone, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*

 

(32)Certification of Douglas L. Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of Peapack-Gladstone and Jeffrey J. Carfora, Chief Financial Officer of Peapack-Gladstone pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
(100)Interactive Data File*

108 

+ Management contract and compensatory plan or arrangement.

* Filed herewith

 

 

109 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of section 13 or 15(d) 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.

 

 Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation

 

  By: /s/ Douglas L. Kennedy
   

Douglas L. Kennedy

Chief Executive Officer

     
  By: /s/ Jeffrey J. Carfora
   

Jeffrey J. Carfora

Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer

     
  By: /s/ Francesco S. Rossi
   

Francesco S. Rossi

Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer

Dated:    March 14, 2017

 

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

Signature   Title   Date
         
/s/ Douglas L. Kennedy   Chief Executive Officer and Director   March 14, 2017
Douglas L. Kennedy
/s/ Jeffrey J. Carfora   Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer   March 14, 2017
Jeffrey J. Carfora        
/s/ F. Duffield Meyercord   Chairman of the Board   March 14, 2017
F. Duffield Meyercord        
/s/ Finn M.W. Caspersen, Jr.   Director, Senior Executive Vice President,   March 14, 2017
Finn M. W. Caspersen, Jr.   General Counsel, Chief Strategy Officer    
         
/s/ Susan A. Cole   Director   March 14, 2017
Susan A. Cole        
         
/s/ Anthony J. Consi II   Director   March 14, 2017
Anthony J. Consi II
/s/ Richard Daingerfield   Director   March 14, 2017
Richard Daingerfield        
         
/s/ Edward A. Gramigna   Director   March 14, 2017
Edward A. Gramigna
         
/s/ John D. Kissel   Director   March 14, 2017
John D. Kissel        
/s/ James R. Lamb   Director   March 14, 2017
James R. Lamb        
/s/ Philip W. Smith III   Director   March 14, 2017
Philip W. Smith III
/s/ Beth Welsh   Director   March 14, 2017
Beth Welsh        

110