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AMERISERV FINANCIAL INC /PA/ - Quarter Report: 2010 September (Form 10-Q)

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                                              UNITED STATES

                    SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

                                      Washington, D.C. 20549


                                                  FORM 10-Q

                                                  

X

Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange

Act of 1934


For the period ended                September 30, 2010                           


Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities

Exchange Act of 1934


For the transaction period from                                      to                           _        

                                                                 

Commission File Number                      0-11204                                            

                                                 AmeriServ Financial, Inc.                                           

                                          (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


                    Pennsylvania                                                                               25-1424278                

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation                            (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 or organization)                                                                  



Main & Franklin Streets, P.O. Box 430, Johnstown, PA                                15907-0430

(Address of principal executive offices)                                                               (Zip Code)

                           

Registrant's telephone number, including area code (814) 533-5300


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.

                    

                    X     Yes    

       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 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period) that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).


                           Yes    

       No


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, accelerated filer, non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company.  See definition of “accelerated filer, large accelerated filer and smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):


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


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

                    X Yes                                                X No  


Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.


               Class                           

           

                                        Outstanding at November 1, 2010    

Common Stock, par value $0.01

             21,223,942

per share                         



AmeriServ Financial, Inc.


INDEX


PART I.   FINANCIAL INFORMATION:

 Page No.

 

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) -

September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009

 

        3

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) -

Three and Nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009


        4

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) -

Nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009


        5

 

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

        6

 

 

Item 2.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial

   Condition and Results of Operations


      20

 

 

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk

      39

 

 

Item 4T.  Controls and Procedures

      39

 

 

PART II.   OTHER INFORMATION

      

 

 

Item 1.  Legal Proceedings

      39

 

 

Item 1A.  Risk Factors

      39

 

 

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

      39

 

 

Item 3.  Defaults Upon Senior Securities

      39

 

 

Item 4.  (Removed and Reserved)

      40

 

 

Item 5.  Other Information

      40

 

 

Item 6.  Exhibits

      40





2





      Item 1. Financial Statements      

                                                                                        AmeriServ Financial, Inc.

                                                                 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

                                                                                      

(In thousands)

  (Unaudited)

 

 

September 30, 2010

December 31, 2009

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

Cash and due from depository institutions

$      15,729

$     20,835

 

Interest bearing deposits

1,715

        1,707

 

Short-term investments in money market funds

         3,611

      3,766

 

   Total cash and cash equivalents

21,055

26,308

 

Investment securities:

 

 

 

Available for sale

156,869

   131,272

 

Held to maturity (market value $8,933 on September 30,

2010 and $11,996 on December 31, 2009)

 

8,422

    

11,611

 

Loans held for sale

5,425

        3,790

 

Loans

694,513

  719,785

 

Less:     Unearned income

544

671

 

Allowance for loan losses

        20,753

        19,685

 

Net loans

673,216

  699,429

 

Premises and equipment, net

 10,815

 9,229

 

Accrued income receivable

3,540

      3,589

 

Goodwill

12,950

12,950

 

Bank owned life insurance

34,462

33,690

 

Net deferred tax asset

  15,259

15,925

 

Regulatory stock

9,739

9,739

 

Prepaid federal deposit insurance

3,516

4,538

 

Other assets

         7,901

         7,956

 

TOTAL ASSETS

$   963,169

$   970,026

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES

 

 

 

Non-interest bearing deposits

$   132,455

$   118,232

 

Interest bearing deposits

    685,695

    667,779

 

Total deposits

    818,150

    786,011

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term borrowings

 2,355

25,775

 

Advances from Federal Home Loan Bank

10,764

     25,804

 

Guaranteed junior subordinated deferrable interest

debentures


     13,085


     13,085

 

Total borrowed funds

     26,204

       64,664

 

Other liabilities

     10,424

     12,097

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES

   854,778

   862,772

 

 

 

 

 

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

Preferred stock, no par value; $1,000 per share liquidation

 preference; 2,000,000 shares authorized;  21,000

 shares issued and outstanding



20,770



20,558

 

Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; 30,000,000   

               shares authorized; 26,412,561 shares issued

               and 21,223,942 outstanding on September 30,

               2010; 26,410,528 shares issued and

               21,221,909 outstanding on December 31, 2009





264





264

 

Treasury stock at cost, 5,188,619 shares on

               September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009


(68,659)


(68,659)

 

Capital surplus

144,716

   144,873

 

Retained earnings

13,970

 14,591

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net

      (2,670)

     (4,373)

 

TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

    108,391

   107,254

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY


$  963,169


$ 970,026

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.




3





                                                      

AmeriServ Financial, Inc.

                                                CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

   (In thousands)                           

    (Unaudited)


                                                                                 

 

       Three months ended

 

       Nine months  ended

 

September 30,

September 30,

September 30,

September 30,

                                                                                 

2010

2009

2010

2009

INTEREST INCOME

 

 

 

 

Interest and fees on loans

$    9,592

$  10,247

$    29,596

$  31,140

Interest bearing deposits

    -

1

    1

3

Short-term investments in money market funds

5

3

12

25

Federal funds sold

2

-

4

-

Investment securities:

 

 

 

 

Available for sale

   1,354

1,295

   4,029

4,030

Held to maturity

       107

       152

       333

       490

Total Interest Income

         11,060

  11,698

         33,975

  35,688

 

 

 

 

 

INTEREST EXPENSE

 

 

 

 

Deposits                                                                

  2,668

3,316

  8,428

9,975

Federal funds purchased

-

6

-

7

Short-term borrowings

2

39

15

238

Advances from Federal Home Loan Bank

      87

132

     340

391

Guaranteed junior subordinated deferrable interest

debentures

 

       280

 

      280

 

       840

 

        840

Total Interest Expense

    3,037

   3,773

    9,623

   11,451

  

 

 

 

 

NET INTEREST INCOME

   8,023

7,925

   24,352

24,237

Provision for loan losses

  _1,000

    6,300

  _5,250

   11,400

NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR

LOAN LOSSES

  

    7,023


   1,625

  

  19,102


   12,837

 

 

 

 

 

NON-INTEREST INCOME

 

 

 

 

Trust fees

1,357

1,377

4,184

4,374

Net realized gains on investment securities

 50

-

 157

164

Net gains on loans held for sale

     278

213

     568

494

Service charges on deposit accounts

   565

712

   1,748

2,095

Investment advisory fees

  171

176

  525

465

Bank owned life insurance

 260

258

 772

762

Other income

      832

     718

     2,247

   2,152

Total Non-Interest Income

   3,513

  3,454

   10,201

 10,506

 

 

 

 

 

NON-INTEREST EXPENSE

 

 

 

 

Salaries and employee benefits

  5,415

5,114

  15,850

15,189

Net occupancy expense

   620

602

   1,995

1,965

Equipment expense

401

398

1,246

1,255

Professional fees

    1,034

1,050

    3,250

2,843

Supplies, postage and freight

 227

279

 768

841

Miscellaneous taxes and insurance

    345

346

    1,052

1,019

FDIC deposit insurance expense

   430

311

   1,102

1,034

Amortization of core deposit intangibles

-

-

-

108

Other expense

    1,302

    1,466

    4,061

    4,110

Total Non-Interest Expense

    9,774

    9,566

  29,324

  28,364

 

 

 

 

 

PRETAX INCOME (LOSS)

       762

        (4,487)

       (21)

        (5,021)

Income tax expense (benefit)

       153

   (1,677)

     (189)

   (1,805)

NET INCOME (LOSS)  

        609

     (2,810)

        168

     (3,216)

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock dividends

       263

       263

       788

         785

NET INCOME (LOSS) AVAILABLE TO COMMON

SHAREHOLDERS


$     346  


$ (3,073)


$    (620)  


$   (4,001)

 

 

 

 

 

PER COMMON SHARE DATA:

 

 

 

 

Basic:

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

$    0.02

$    (0.15)

$     (0.03)

$    (0.19)

Average number of shares outstanding

21,224

21,178

21,224

21,156

Diluted:

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

$    0.02

$    (0.15)

$     (0.03)

$    (0.19)

Average number of shares outstanding

21,225

21,182

21,229

21,159

Cash dividends declared

 $    0.00

 $      0.00

 $       0.00

 $      0.00


See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.




4





AmeriServ Financial, Inc.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

 

Nine months ended

 

September 30, 2010

September 30, 2009

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

 

Net income (loss)

$        168

$      (3,216)   

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash

 

 

   provided by operating activities:

 

 

Provision for loan losses

5,250

11,400

Depreciation expense

    1,065

  1,179

Amortization expense of core deposit intangibles

      -

108

Net amortization of investment securities

        245

 149

Net realized gains on investment securities available for sale

(157)

   (164)

Net realized gains on loans held for sale

(568)

(494)

Amortization of deferred loan fees

(324)

(371)

Origination of mortgage loans held for sale

(44,090)

(55,759)

Sales of mortgage loans held for sale

43,023

53,429

Decrease in accrued interest income receivable

  49

  72

Decrease in accrued interest expense payable

(924)

(105)

Earnings on bank owned life insurance

(772)

(762)

Deferred income taxes

(666)

155

Stock based compensation expense

            55

           73

Net decrease (increase) in other assets

     1,277

(3,925)

Net (decrease) increase in other liabilities

     (749)

         67

Net cash provided by operating activities

    2,882

    1,836

 

 

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

 

 

Purchases of investment securities - available for sale

(74,353)

(36,286)

Purchases of investment securities - held to maturity

(1,123)

-

Proceeds from sales of investment securities – available for sale

2,742

4,746

Proceeds from maturities of investment securities – available for sale

     48,081

34,615

Proceeds from maturities of investment securities – held to maturity

 4,311

2,788

Long-term loans originated

 (63,146)

(95,380)

Principal collected on long-term loans

 88,812

99,240

Loans purchased or participated

(3,845)

(20,500)

Loans sold or participated

  -

3,950

Net decrease (increase) in other short-term loans

    34

(108)

Purchases of premises and equipment

    (2,651)

        (646)

Net cash used in investing activities

    (1,138)

     (7,581)

 

 

 

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 

 

Net increase in deposit accounts

  32,251

83,626

Net decrease in other short-term borrowings

(23,420)

(89,290)

Principal borrowings on advances from Federal Home Loan Bank

  34,000

   -

Principal repayments on advances from Federal Home Loan Bank

(49,040)

(37)

Preferred stock dividends

       (788)

      (688)

Net cash used in financing activities

    (6,997)

   (6,389)

 

 

 

NET DECREASE  IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

(5,253)

(12,134)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT JANUARY 1

   26,308

  35,124

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT SEPTEMBER 30

$ 21,055

$22,990


See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.




5





NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


1.

Principles of Consolidation


The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of AmeriServ Financial, Inc. (the Company) and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, AmeriServ Financial Bank (Bank), AmeriServ Trust and Financial Services Company (Trust Company), and AmeriServ Life Insurance Company (AmeriServ Life).  The Bank is a state-chartered full service bank with 19 locations in Pennsylvania.  The Trust Company offers a complete range of trust and financial services and administers assets valued at $1.3 billion that are not recognized on the Company’s balance sheet at September 30, 2010.  AmeriServ Life is a captive insurance company that engages in underwriting as a reinsurer of credit life and disability insurance.  


In addition, the Parent Company is an administrative group that provides support in such areas as audit, finance, investments, loan review, general services, and marketing.  Significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements.  


2.

Basis of Preparation


The unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information. In the opinion of management, all adjustments consisting only of normal recurring entries considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  They are not, however, necessarily indicative of the results of consolidated operations for a full-year.


For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.


3.

Accounting Policies


In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU No. 2010-06, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (Topic 820): Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements. ASU 2010-06 amends Subtopic 820-10 to clarify existing disclosures, require new disclosures, and includes conforming amendments to guidance on employers’ disclosures about postretirement benefit plan assets. ASU 2010-06 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements in the roll forward of activity in Level 3 fair value measurements. Those disclosures are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010 and for interim periods within those fiscal years.  The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operation.







In July 2010, FASB issued ASU No. 2010-20, Receivables (Topic 310): Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses.  ASU 2010-20 is intended to provide additional information to assist financial statement users in assessing an entity’s credit risk exposures and evaluating the adequacy of its allowance for credit losses. The disclosures as of the end of a reporting period are effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending on or after December 15, 2010. The disclosures about activity that occurs during a reporting period are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2010.  The amendments in ASU 2010-20 encourage, but do not require, comparative disclosures for earlier reporting periods that ended before initial adoption. However, an entity should provide comparative disclosures for those reporting periods ending after initial adoption.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of this guidance will have on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.


4.

Earnings Per Common Share


Basic earnings per share include only the weighted average common shares outstanding.  Diluted earnings per share include the weighted average common shares outstanding and any potentially dilutive common stock equivalent shares in the calculation.  Treasury shares are treated as retired for earnings per share purposes. Options and warrants to purchase 1,453,142 common shares, at exercise prices ranging from $1.77 to $6.10, and 1,544,509 common shares, at exercise prices ranging from $2.31 to $6.10, were outstanding as of September 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively, but were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per common share because to do so would be antidilutive.  Dividends on preferred shares are deducted from net income in the calculation of earnings per common share.


 

 

Three months ended

September 30,

 

Nine months  ended

September 30,

 

2010

2009

2010

2009

 

 

                      (In thousands, except per share data)

 

 

Numerator:

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

$     609

$  (2,810)

$      168

$ (3,216)

Preferred stock dividends

       263

       263

        788

       785

Net income (loss) available to common

  shareholders


$     346


$ (3,073)


$    (620)


$ (4,001)

 

 

 

 

 

Denominator:

 

 

 

 

Weighted average common shares

 

 

 

 

  outstanding (basic)

21,224

21,178

21,224

21,156

Effect of stock options/warrants

          1

           4

           5

          3

Weighted average common shares

 

 

 

 

  outstanding (diluted)

  21,225

 21,182

  21,229

 21,159

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per common share:

 

 

 

 

    Basic

$0.02

$(0.15)

$(0.03)

$(0.19)

    Diluted

0.02

(0.15)

(0.03)

(0.19)










5.

Comprehensive Income (Loss)


For the Company, comprehensive income includes net income and unrealized holding gains and losses from available for sale investment securities and the pension obligation change for the defined benefit plan.  The changes in other comprehensive income are reported net of income taxes, as follows (in thousands):

                                                

                                             

 

 

Three months ended

 

Nine months  ended

 

 

September 30,

September 30,

 

 

2010

2009

2010

2009

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

$     609

$   (2,810)

$       168

$   (3,216)

 

 

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income, before tax:

 

 

 

 

     Pension obligation change for defined benefit plan

 142

 116

 426

 351

        Income tax effect

       (48)

       (38)

       (145)

       (117)

Reclassification adjustment for gains on

    available for sale securities included in net

    income (loss)



   (50)



   -



   (157)



   (164)

        Income tax effect

16

-

52

56

Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available for sale

   securities arising during period


 (81)


 1,209


 2,314


 1,904

        Income tax effect

         27

     (411)

     (787)

     (648)

Other comprehensive income

           6

       876

    1,703

    1,382

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss)

$      615

$(1,934)

$   1,871

$   (1,834)


6.

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows


On a consolidated basis, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from depository institutions, interest-bearing deposits, federal funds sold and short-term investments in money market funds.  The Company made $170,000 in income tax payments in the first nine months of 2010 as compared to $123,000 for the first nine months of 2009.  The Company made total interest payments of $10,547,000 in the first nine months of 2010 compared to $11,556,000 in the same 2009 period.


7.

Investment Securities


The cost basis and fair values of investment securities are summarized as follows (in thousands):


Investment securities available for sale (AFS):                                

    

 

          September 30, 2010

 

Gross      

Gross      

 

 

Cost  

Unrealized

Unrealized

Fair   

 

      Basis

      Gains   

    Losses   

      Value   

  U.S. Agency

$   16,985

$      113

$           -

$   17,098

  U.S. Agency mortgage- backed  securities

 134,887

     4,903

       (19)

  139,771

       Total

$151,872

$   5,016

$     (19)

$ 156,869

   

Investment securities held to maturity (HTM):                          

          September 30, 2010

 

Gross      

Gross      

 

 

Cost  

Unrealized

Unrealized

Fair   

 

      Basis    

      Gains   

    Losses   

      Value   

  U.S. Agency mortgage- backed securities

$  7,422

$      522

$          -

$  7,944

  Other securities

    1,000

            -

      (11)

       989

       Total

$  8,422

$      522

$    (11)

$  8,933

    


Investment securities available for sale (AFS):                                      

 

          December 31, 2009

 

Gross      

Gross      

 

 

Cost  

Unrealized

Unrealized

Fair   

 

      Basis    

      Gains   

    Losses   

      Value   

  U.S. Agency

$  12,342

$       26

$      (76)

$  12,292

  U.S. Agency mortgage-backed securities

  116,088

    3,128

      (236)

  118,980

       Total

$128,430

$ 3,154

$    (312)

$131,272


Investment securities held to maturity (HTM):                          

          December 31, 2009

 

Gross      

Gross      

 

 

Cost  

Unrealized

Unrealized

Fair   

 

      Basis    

      Gains   

    Losses   

      Value   

  U.S. Treasury

$    3,009

$        13

$         -

$     3,022

  U.S. Agency mortgage-backed securities

7,602

373

-

7,975

  Other securities

      1,000

             -

       (1)

         999

       Total

$  11,611

$      386

$     (1)

$  11,996


Maintaining investment quality is a primary objective of the Company's investment policy which, subject to certain limited exceptions, prohibits the purchase of any investment security below a Moody's Investor's Service or Standard & Poor's rating of "A."  At September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009, 99.4% of the portfolio was rated "AAA".  None of the portfolio was rated below “A” or unrated at September 30, 2010.  At September 30, 2010, the Company’s consolidated investment securities portfolio had a modified duration of approximately 1.95 years.  Total proceeds from the sale of AFS securities were $2.7 million in the first nine months of 2010 compared to $4.7 million for the first nine months of 2009.   The gross gains on investment security sales in the first nine months of 2010 were $157,000 compared to $164,000 for the first nine months of 2009.


The following tables present information concerning investments with unrealized losses as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009 (in thousands):


Investment securities available for sale:  

          September 30, 2010

Less than 12 months

 

12 months or longer

 

Total

 

 

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

 

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

 

  

   

 

  

 

  

  U.S. Agency mortgage-

 

 

 

 

 

 

     backed securities

$    7,553

$      (19)

$          -

$         -

$   7,553

$        (19)

       Total

$    7,553

$      (19)

$          -

$         -

$   7,553

$        (19)


Investment securities held to maturity:

          September 30, 2010

Less than 12 months

 

12 months or longer

 

Total

 

 

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

 

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

  Other securities

$           -

$           -

$     989

$     (11)

$     989

$     (11)

       Total

$           -

$           -

$     989

$     (11)

$     989

$     (11)


Investment securities available for sale:  

          December 31, 2009

Less than 12 months

 

12 months or longer

 

Total

 

 

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

 

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

  U.S. Agency

 $  7,424

      $     (76)

 $         -

 $         -

$   7,424

      $     (76)

  U.S. Agency mortgage-

 

 

 

 

 

 

     backed securities

  17,525

    (236)

          -

          -

   17,525

     (236)

       Total

$ 24,949

$   (312)

$         -

$         -

$ 24,949

$   (312)







Investment securities held to maturity:                          

          December 31, 2009

Less than 12 months

 

12 months or longer

 

Total

 

 

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

Fair

Unrealized

 

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

Value

Losses

  Other securities

$           -

$           -

$     999

$       (1)

$     999

$       (1)

       Total

$           -

$           -

$     999

$       (1)

$     999

$       (1)


The unrealized losses are primarily a result of increases in market yields from the time of purchase.  In general, as market yields rise, the value of securities will decrease; as market yields fall, the fair value of securities will increase.  There are 5 positions that are considered temporarily impaired at September 30, 2010.  Management generally views changes in fair value caused by changes in interest rates as temporary; therefore, these securities have not been classified as other-than-temporarily impaired.  Management has also concluded that based on current information we expect to continue to receive scheduled interest payments as well as the entire principal balance.  Furthermore, we do not intend to sell these securities and do not believe we will be required to sell these securities before they recover in value.


Contractual maturities of securities at September 30, 2010, are shown below (in thousands).  Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without prepayment penalties.  


Maturity

 

Available for Sale

Held to Maturity

 

 

Cost  

Fair   

Cost  

Fair   

 

      Basis    

      Value   

      Basis    

      Value   

0-1 year

   $      728

      $      734

$           -

$           -

1-5 years

13,485

13,584

1,000

989

5-10 years

23,231

24,413

             -

             -

Over 10 years

  114,428

  118,138

    7,422

    7,944

       Total

$151,872

$156,869

$   8,422

$   8,933


8.

Loans


The loan portfolio of the Company consists of the following (in thousands):


 

September 30,

         2010

December 31,

         2009

 

     Commercial

$  86,295

$    96,158

 

     Commercial loans secured by real estate

383,253

396,787

 

     Real estate – mortgage

205,894

207,221

 

     Consumer

     19,071

     19,619

 

       Total loans

694,513

  719,785

 

     Less:  Unearned income

         544

         671

 

     Loans, net of unearned income

$  693,969

$  719,114

 


Real estate-construction loans comprised 5.5%, and 6.8% of total loans, net of unearned income, at September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively.  The Company has no exposure to sub prime mortgage loans in either the loan or investment portfolios.  









9.

Allowance for Loan Losses


An analysis of the changes in the allowance for loan losses follows (in thousands, except ratios):


 

 

           Three months ended

 

Nine months  ended

 

                    September 30,

 

 

September 30,

 

2010

2009

2010

2009

Balance at beginning of period

  $ 20,737

$   13,606

  $ 19,685

$   8,910

Charge-offs:

 

 

 

 

     Commercial

(277)

(92)

(482)

(733)

     Commercial loans secured by real estate

      (645)

(522)

      (3,596)

(759)

     Real estate-mortgage

  (87)

(33)

  (245)

(100)

     Consumer   

            (78)

        (66)

           (212)

      (186)

     Total charge-offs

            (1,087)

      (713)

         (4,535)

   (1,778)

Recoveries:

 

 

 

 

     Commercial

63

26

216

595

     Commercial loans secured by real estate

    1

6

   38

11

     Real estate-mortgage

   18

3

  23

25

     Consumer     

           21

          27

           76

          92

     Total recoveries

           103

          62

         353

        723

 

 

 

 

 

Net charge-offs

   (984)

(651)

   (4,182)

(1,055)

Provision for loan losses

     1,000

     6,300

     5,250

   11,400

Balance at end of period

  $ 20,753

$ 19,255

  $ 20,753

$ 19,255

 

 

 

 

 

As a percent of average loans and loans held

 

 

 

 

     for sale, net of unearned income:

 

 

 

 

     Annualized net charge-offs

  0.56%

0.35%

  0.79%

0.19%

     Annualized provision for loan losses

0.57

3.42

0.99

2.10

Allowance as a percent of loans and loans

 

 

 

 

     held for sale, net of unearned income

 

 

 

 

     at period end               

 2.97

2.66

2.97`

2.66


10.

Non-performing Assets


The following table presents information concerning non-performing assets (in thousands, except percentages):



   

 

September 30,

2010

 

December 31,         2009

Non-accrual loans

 

 

 

 

    Commercial

 

$   3,020

 

$     3,375

    Commercial loans secured by real estate

 

10,655

 

11,716

    Real estate-mortgage

 

1,640

 

1,639

    Consumer

 

        400

 

         386

Total

 

   15,715

 

     17,116

 

 

 

 

 

Other real estate owned

 

 

 

 

    Commercial loans secured by real estate

 

       448

 

 871

Real estate-mortgage

 

        323

 

       350

Total

 

        771

 

    1,221

 

 

 

 

 

Total restructured loans not in non-accrual (TDR)

 

     9,013

 

            -   

Total non-performing assets including TDR

 

$25,499

 

$ 18,337

    Total non-performing assets as a percent of loans and      loans held for sale, net of unearned income,

     and other real estate owned

 

3.64%

 

2.53%





The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, (i) the gross interest income that would have been recorded if non-accrual loans had been current in accordance with their original terms and had been outstanding throughout the period or since origination if held for part of the period, (ii) the amount of interest income actually recorded on such loans, and (iii) the net reduction in interest income attributable to such loans (in thousands).


 

        Three months ended

 

        Nine months  ended

 

                                                        

September 30,

 

September 30,

 

                                                     

2010

2009

2010

2009

Interest income due in accordance

 

 

 

 

   with original terms

$      281

$      165

$      818

$     275

Interest income recorded

      (112)

            -

      (354)

           -

Net reduction in interest income

$      169

$      165

$      464

$    275


11.

Federal Home Loan Bank Borrowings


Total Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) borrowings and advances consist of the following at September 30, 2010, (in thousands, except percentages):


 

 

 

Weighted

Type

Maturing

Amount

Average Rate

Open Repo Plus

Overnight

$     2,355

   0.68%

 

 

 

 

Advances

2010

       1,000

2.94     

 

2012

      4,000

1.82

 

2013

5,000

2.04

 

2016 and after

        764

6.44

 

 

   10,764

2.35

        

 

 

 

Total FHLB borrowings

 

  $ 13,119

2.05%


Total Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) borrowings and advances consisted of the following at December 31, 2009, (in thousands, except percentages):


 

 

 

Weighted

Type

Maturing

Amount

Average Rate

Open Repo Plus

Overnight

$ 25,775

    0.62%

 

 

 

 

Advances

2010

       22,000

1.67     

 

2012

      3,000

1.97

 

2016 and after

        804

6.44

 

 

   25,804

1.85

        

 

 

 

Total FHLB borrowings

 

  $ 51,579

1.24%


The rate on Open Repo Plus advances can change daily, while the rates on the advances are fixed until the maturity of the advance.  


12.

Preferred Stock


On October 3, 2008, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (initially introduced as the Troubled Asset Relief Program or “TARP”) was enacted.  On October 14, 2008, the U.S. Treasury announced its intention to inject capital into financial institutions under the TARP Capital Purchase Program (the “CPP”).  The CPP is a voluntary program designed to provide capital to healthy, well managed financial institutions in order to increase the availability of credit to businesses and individuals and help stabilize the U.S. financial system.  


On December 19, 2008, the Company sold to the U.S. Treasury for an aggregate purchase price of $21 million in cash 21,000 shares of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D.  In conjunction with the purchase of these senior preferred shares, the U.S. Treasury also received a warrant to purchase up to 1,312,500 shares of the Company’s common stock. The warrant has a term of 10 years and is exercisable at any time, in whole or in part, at an exercise price of $2.40 per share.  The $21 million in proceeds was allocated to the Series D Preferred Stock and the warrant based on their relative fair values at issuance (approximately $20.4 million was allocated to the Series D Preferred Stock and approximately $600,000 to the warrant).  The difference between the initial value allocated to the Series D Preferred Stock of approximately $20.4 million and the liquidation value of $21 million will be charged to surplus over the first three years of the contract.  Cumulative dividends on Series D Preferred Stock are payable quarterly at 5% through December 19, 2013 and at a rate of 9% thereafter.  As a result of the decision by the Company to accept a preferred stock investment under the U.S. Treasury’s CPP for a period of three years the Company is no longer permitted to repurchase common stock or declare and pay dividends on common stock without the consent of the U.S. Treasury.


13.

Regulatory Capital


The Company is subject to various capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies.  Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the Company's assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices.  The Company's capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors.  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 consolidated financial statements.


Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Company to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below) of total and Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets, and of Tier 1 capital to average assets.  As of September 30, 2010, the Federal Reserve categorized the Company as Well Capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.  The Company believes that no conditions or events have occurred that would change this conclusion.  To be categorized as well capitalized, the Company must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based, and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the table.  Additionally, while not a regulatory capital ratio, the Company’s tangible common equity ratio was 7.86% at September 30, 2010.















 



Actual

 


For Capital Adequacy

Purposes

 

To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions

September 30, 2010

Amount

Ratio

Amount

Ratio

Amount

Ratio

 

 

 

(In thousands, except ratios)

 

 

 

Total Capital (to Risk

  Weighted Assets)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated

$113,312

15.97%

$  56,766

   8.00%

$ 70,957

10.00%

Bank

 91,333

13.05  

56,011

       8.00

70,013

10.00   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tier 1 Capital (to Risk

  Weighted Assets)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated

 104,284

14.70  

   28,383

 4.00  

  42,574

 6.00   

Bank

82,422

11.77  

28,005

 4.00  

42,008

 6.00   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tier 1 Capital (to

  Average Assets)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated

104,284

11.07

        37,673

4.00

47,091

5.00

Bank

82,422

8.98

        36,700

4.00

45,875

5.00


14.

Segment Results


The financial performance of the Company is also monitored by an internal funds transfer pricing profitability measurement system which produces line of business results and key performance measures.  The Company's major business units include retail banking, commercial lending, trust, and investment/parent. The reported results reflect the underlying economics of the business segments.  Expenses for centrally provided services are allocated based upon the cost and estimated usage of those services.  The businesses are match-funded and interest rate risk is centrally managed and accounted for within the investment/parent business segment.  The key performance measure the Company focuses on for each business segment is net income contribution.


Retail banking includes the deposit-gathering branch franchise, lending to both individuals and small businesses, and financial services.  Lending activities include residential mortgage loans, direct consumer loans, and small business commercial loans.  Financial services include the sale of mutual funds, annuities, and insurance products.  Commercial lending to businesses includes commercial loans, and commercial real-estate loans.  The trust segment contains our wealth management businesses, which include the Trust Company and West Chester Capital Advisors, our registered investment advisory firm.  Wealth management includes personal trust products and services such as personal portfolio investment management, estate planning and administration, custodial services and pre-need trusts.  Also, institutional trust products and services such as 401(k) plans, defined benefit and defined contribution employee benefit plans, and individual retirement accounts are included in this segment.  The Wealth management businesses also includes the union collective investment funds, namely the ERECT and BUILD funds which are designed to use union pension dollars in real estate investments and construction projects that utilize union labor.  The investment/parent includes the net results of investment securities and borrowing activities, general corporate expenses not allocated to the business segments, interest expense on the guaranteed junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures, and centralized interest rate risk management.  Inter-segment revenues were not material.





The contribution of the major business segments to the consolidated results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 were as follows (in thousands):


 

 

Three months ended

 

Nine months  ended

September 30,

 

 

September 30, 2010

 

September 30, 2010

 2010

 

Total revenue

Net income (loss)

Total revenue

Net income (loss)

Total assets

Retail banking

$    6,600

$        458

$    19,004

$        952

$    317,015

Commercial lending

3,079

192

9,745

(614)

477,406

Trust

1,541

95

4,759

164

3,457

Investment/Parent

         316

       (136)

       1,045

       (334)

     165,291

Total

$  11,536

$        609

$   34,553

$        168

$   963,169


 

 

Three months ended

 

Nine months  ended

September 30,

 

 

September 30, 2009

 

September 30, 2009

 2009

 

Total revenue

Net income (loss)

Total revenue

Net income (loss)

Total assets

Retail banking

$    6,311

$        441

$  18,640

$      914

$   313,138

Commercial lending

3,070

(3,246)

9,130

(4,866)

503,978

Trust

1,572

68

4,891

316

3,513

Investment/Parent

         426

         (73)

      2,082

        420

     138,715

Total

$  11,379

$  (2,810)

$  34,743

$ (3,216)

$   959,344

  

15.

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities


The Company had various outstanding commitments to extend credit approximating $85.8 million and standby letters of credit of $12.4 million as of September 30, 2010. The Company’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to these commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by their contractual amounts.  The Bank uses the same credit and collateral policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as for all other lending.  


Additionally, the Company is also subject to a number of asserted and unasserted potential claims encountered in the normal course of business.  In the opinion of the Company, neither the resolution of these claims nor the funding of these credit commitments will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operation or cash flows.


16.

Pension Benefits


The Company has a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan covering all employees who work at least 1,000 hours per year.  The benefits of the plan are based upon the employee’s years of service and average annual earnings for the highest five consecutive calendar years during the final ten year period of employment.  Plan assets are primarily debt securities (including U.S. Treasury and Agency securities, corporate notes and bonds), listed common stocks (including shares of AmeriServ Financial, Inc. common stock which is limited to 10% of the plan’s assets), mutual funds, and short-term cash equivalent instruments.  The net periodic pension cost for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009 were as follows (in thousands):







 

Three months ended

 

Nine months ended

 

                                                        

September 30,      

 

September 30,      

 

                                                     

2010

2009

2010

2009

Components of net periodic benefit cost

 

 

 

 

   Service cost

$    255

$   264

$    765

$   728

   Interest cost

265

286

795

753

   Expected return on plan assets

(309)

(291)

(927)

(907)

   Amortization of prior year service cost

4

2

12

8

   Amortization of transition asset

(4)

(5)

(12)

(13)

   Recognized net actuarial loss

      142

    119

      426

    356

Net periodic pension cost

$    353

$  375

$ 1,059

$  925


17.

Disclosures About Fair Value Measurements


The following disclosures establish a hierarchal disclosure framework associated with the level of pricing observability utilized in measuring assets and liabilities at fair value.  The three broad levels defined within this hierarchy are as follows:


Level I:     Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the reported date.


Level II:    Pricing inputs are other than the quoted prices in active markets, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reported date.  The nature of these assets and liabilities includes items for which quoted prices are available but traded less frequently and items that are fair-valued using other financial instruments, the parameters of which can be directly observed.


Level III:    Assets and liabilities that have little to no pricing observability as of the reported date.  These items do not have two-way markets and are measured using management’s best estimate of fair value, where the inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation.


Securities classified as available for sale are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. For these securities, the Company obtains fair value measurements from an independent pricing service.  The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quoted market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond’s terms and conditions, among other things.  


Residential real estate loans held for sale are carried at fair value on a recurring basis. Residential real estate loans are valued based on quoted market prices from purchase commitments from market participants and are classified as Level 1.


The fair value of the swap asset is based on an external derivative valuation model using data inputs as of the valuation date and classified Level 2.


The following tables present the assets reported on the balance sheet at their fair value as of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009, by level within the fair value hierarchy.  Financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.



Assets Measured on a Recurring Basis


Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below (in thousands):


 

 

 

Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2010 Using

 

 




Total

Quoted Prices in

Active Markets for

Identical Assets

(Level 1)


Significant Other

Observable Inputs

(Level 2)

Significant

Unobservable Inputs

(Level 3)

 

 

 

 

 

      U.S. Agency securities

      $  17,098

$            -

        $   17,098

$       -

      U.S. Agency mortgage-backed

          securities


        139,771   


        -


 139,771


  -

     Loans held for sale

            5,425

5,425

-

-

     Fair value of swap asset

               531

-

531

-


 

 

 

Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2009 Using

 

 




Total

Quoted Prices in

Active Markets for

Identical Assets

(Level 1)


Significant Other

Observable Inputs

(Level 2)

Significant

Unobservable Inputs

(Level 3)

 

 

 

 

 

      U.S. Agency securities

       $   12,292   

$         -

$   12,292

$ -

      U.S. Agency mortgage-backed

          securities


          118,980


-


118,980


-

      Loans held for sale

              3,790

3,790

-

-

      Fair value of swap asset

                 154

-

154

-


Loans considered impaired are loans for which, based on current information and events, it is probable that the creditor will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement.  Impaired loans are reported at fair value of the underlying collateral if the repayment is expected solely from the collateral.  Collateral values are estimated using Level 2 inputs based on observable market data which at times are discounted.  At September 30, 2010, impaired loans with a carrying value of $23.1 million were reduced by a specific valuation allowance totaling $6.4 million resulting in a net fair value of $16.6 million.


Other real estate owned (OREO) is measured at fair value, based on appraisals less cost to sell at the date of foreclosure.  Valuations are periodically performed by management and the assets are carried at the lower of carrying amount or fair value, less cost to sell.  Income and expenses from operations and changes in valuation allowance are included in the net expenses from OREO.


Assets Measured on a Non-recurring Basis


Assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis are summarized below (in thousands):


 

 

 

Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2010 Using

 

 




Total

Quoted Prices in

Active Markets for

Identical Assets

(Level 1)


Significant Other

Observable Inputs

(Level 2)

Significant

Unobservable Inputs

(Level 3)

 

 

 

 

 

     Impaired loans

      $   16,647

$    -  

$ 16,647

$        -

     Other real estate owned

                771

 -

771

 -



 

 

 

Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2009 Using

 

 




Total

Quoted Prices in

Active Markets for

Identical Assets

(Level 1)


Significant Other

Observable Inputs

(Level 2)

Significant

Unobservable Inputs

(Level 3)

 

 

 

 

 

     Impaired loans

       $10,091

$        -

       $10,091

$        -

     Other real estate owned

           1,221

     -

           1,221

 -


DISCLOSURES ABOUT FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS


For the Company, as for most financial institutions, approximately 90% of its assets and liabilities are considered financial instruments.  Many of the Company’s financial instruments, however, lack an available trading market characterized by a willing buyer and willing seller engaging in an exchange transaction.  Therefore, significant estimates and present value calculations were used by the Company for the purpose of this disclosure.


Fair values have been determined by the Company using independent third party valuations that use the best available data (Level 2) and an estimation methodology (Level 3) the Company believes is suitable for each category of financial instruments.  Management believes that cash, cash equivalents, and loans and deposits with floating interest rates have estimated fair values which approximate the recorded book balances.  The estimation methodologies used, the estimated fair values based on US GAAP measurements, and recorded book balances at September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009, were as follows (in thousands):


 

September 30, 2010

December 31, 2009

 

 

 

Fair Value

Recorded Book Balance

 

Fair Value

Recorded Book Balance

FINANCIAL ASSETS:





Cash and cash equivalents

 $    21,055

$ 21,055

 $    26,308

 $    26,308

Investment securities

  165,802

165,291

  143,268

  142,883

Regulatory stock

          9,739

               9,739

        9,739

             9,739

Net loans (including loans held for sale), net of allowance for loan loss

 679,950

678,641

699,770

703,219

Accrued income receivable

           3,540

              3,540

           3,589

           3,589

Bank owned life insurance

         34,462

            34,462

         33,690

         33,690

Fair value swap asset

            531

                 531

         154

         154

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCIAL LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

Deposits with no stated maturities

 $ 460,785

$460,785

 $ 433,220

 $ 433,220

Deposits with stated maturities

 361,994

357,365

 357,275

 352,791

Short-term borrowings

2,355

2,355

25,775

25,775

All other borrowings

 27,727

23,849

41,272

38,889

Accrued interest payable

        3,212

           3,212

       4,136

       4,136

Fair value swap liability

              531

                  531

             154

             154

 

 

 

 

 

The fair value of cash and cash equivalents, regulatory stock, accrued income receivable, short-term borrowings, and accrued interest payable are equal to the current carrying value.


The fair value of investment securities is equal to the available quoted market price.  


The net loan portfolio has been valued using a present value discounted cash flow.  The discount rate used in these calculations is based upon the treasury yield curve adjusted for non-interest operating costs, credit loss, current market prices and assumed prepayment risk.


The fair value of bank owned life insurance is based upon the cash surrender value of the underlying policies and matches the book value.

Deposits with stated maturities have been valued using a present value discounted cash flow with a discount rate approximating current market for similar assets and liabilities.  Deposits with no stated maturities have an estimated fair value equal to both the amount payable on demand and the recorded book balance.


The fair value of other borrowed funds are based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows.  The discount rates are estimated using rates currently offered for similar instruments with similar remaining maturities.  


The fair values of the fair value swaps used for interest rate risk management represents the amount the Company would have expected to receive or pay to terminate such agreements.


Changes in assumptions or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on these estimated fair values.  The Company’s remaining assets and liabilities which are not considered financial instruments have not been valued differently than has been customary under historical cost accounting.

 




6





Item 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS ("M.D.& A.")


2010 THIRD QUARTER SUMMARY OVERVIEW….. There is a continuing strain placed on the nation’s network of community banks by the recession and weak recovery.  The FDIC has now classified 829 financial institutions as troubled.  When it is recognized that about 275 financial institutions have failed already in 2009 and 2010, we all must understand that as many as 10% of the supervised financial institutions in the U.S. may well not survive this economic turmoil.


We regard these as sobering statistics and reflect on them regularly as the Board and management review the affairs of this Company.  Our concerns are further heightened for we do not believe that the hard times show signs of abating very soon.  These conditions cause us to focus constantly on the safety and soundness of AmeriServ.  We continue to note, with mounting concern, the latest data on unemployment reveals that as of September 30th it was 9.6% in the U.S., 8.9% in Pennsylvania and 10% in our region.  It has remained at this level throughout 2010 and, therefore, serves to heighten our vigilance.


On October 19th AmeriServ announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2010.  Net income was reported at $609,000 or $0.02 per share.  This performance is well above the loss of $2,810,000 in the third quarter of 2009, but perhaps more importantly, it represents an increase of $132,000 or 28% above the second quarter of 2010.  This performance means that AmeriServ, as a company, is now profitable for the year 2010 as is AmeriServ Financial Bank and AmeriServ Trust and Financial Services Company.  We were encouraged by the continuation in the quarter of a strong net interest margin which kept net interest income relatively stable.  Non-interest income was at the highest level since the second quarter of 2008.  Our retail bankers were especially pleased to see our customers continue to add to the deposits they entrust to us.  In 2010 alone our deposit totals have increased by over $32 million.


These results encourage us, but the third quarter was not without its challenges.  Our Asset Quality Task Force continues to meet weekly to identify and take quick action on any loans which show weakness.  The continuing weak economy is placing unreasonable strains on many of our conscientious but suffering borrowers.  In the third quarter it was necessary to classify an additional $5.7 million of loans as non-performing as a result of our intensive monitoring procedures.  Our relationship managers are in regular contact with these borrowers to proactively monitor their performance in this economic environment.  But it is necessary that we also take the actions needed to protect this Company. It has been our practice to build our loan loss reserves without fail as recommended by the Task Force.  As the third quarter ended, this continuing process showed that, even though non-performing loans increased, our allowance for loan losses still provided a coverage ratio of 84% of the total of non-performing loans irrespective of collateral values.  It is important to be aware that AmeriServ has been well above similar sized banks around the nation on this coverage ratio over the last two years.  Our intent is to continue to exercise the necessary level of caution as long as these conditions prevail.


We have previously mentioned that we have been using 2010 as a repositioning year throughout AmeriServ.  It is an unfortunate fact that economic activity has been less than desirable.  But we have not been inactive, for example:


·

We have completed the construction of a beautiful new AmeriServ branch bank in State College which remains a thriving banking environment

·

We have combined our Financial Services activity, which offers annuity products, with our Trust Company so that our customers have a broader array of choices available when managing their finances

·

We are well on the way to another outstanding year in the providing of residential mortgages to families in the region.  This effort has been a great success story for AmeriServ as it works to strengthen its role as a leading community bank in the region.


One might say, in a few words, that AmeriServ is seeking to actively improve itself during these difficult times while being on the alert for continuing fallout from the recession.


It is also important to note that:


·

The coverage of Non-Performing Loans by the Allowance for Loan Losses was at 83.9% on September 30, 2010, irrespective of collateral values pledged against the loans

·

The Company continues to exceed by a wide margin all regulatory authority required capital ratios

·

The Company has strong liquidity with FHLB borrowings representing just 1.4% of total assets.


Our mantra for these times is to be strong in the short term, but to plan to also be strong in the long term when the long awaited recovery begins.  We remain concerned about the myriad of changes which the Dodd-Frank legislation will require of us.  But as careful bankers we will cope with them even though we are aware that most of the new regulations are aimed at the still unfolding errors of the mega-banks.  AmeriServ will continue to focus on doing the best job possible for its customers, its employees and its investors in good times and bad.  We were pleased to record a second consecutive profitable quarter after four consecutive quarters of recession induced losses.  Our Board and management team pledges continued vigilance during this recession while also continuing to work to improve financial performance.  


THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 VS. THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009


.....PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW.....The following table summarizes some of the Company's key performance indicators (in thousands, except per share and ratios).

 

 

 Three months ended

  Three months ended

 

September 30, 2010

September 30, 2009

   Net income (loss)

$       609

$    (2,810)

   Diluted earnings (loss) per share

 0.02

(0.15)

   Return on average assets (annualized)

 0.25%

(1.15)%

   Return on average equity (annualized)

 2.24%

(9.83)%


The Company reported third quarter 2010 net income of $609,000 or $0.02 per diluted common share.  This represents an increase of $3.4 million from the third quarter 2009 net loss of $2.8 million or $0.15 per diluted common share.  A lower provision for loan losses was an important factor causing the increase in earnings between periods.  Proactive monitoring of our asset quality has allowed us to carefully adjust downward the provision for loan losses for four consecutive quarters while still maintaining solid loan loss reserve coverage ratios.  The third quarter of 2010 also benefitted from modest increases in net interest income and non-interest income which helped offset an increase in non-interest expense.   Diluted earnings per share were impacted by the preferred dividend requirement on the CPP preferred stock which amounted to $263,000 and reduced the amount of net income available to common shareholders.         

.....NET INTEREST INCOME AND MARGIN.....The Company's net interest income represents the amount by which interest income on average earning assets exceeds interest paid on average interest bearing liabilities.  Net interest income is a primary source of the Company's earnings, and it is affected by interest rate fluctuations as well as changes in the amount and mix of average earning assets and average interest bearing liabilities.  The following table compares the Company's net interest income performance for the third quarter of 2010 to the third quarter of 2009 (in thousands, except percentages):



Three months ended

September 30, 2010

Three months ended

September 30, 2009


 Change


% Change

Interest income

$ 11,060

$ 11,698

$  (638)

(5.5)%

Interest expense

     3,037

     3,773

    (736)

      (19.5)

Net interest income

 $   8,023

$   7,925

$      98

        1.2

 

 

 

 

 

Net interest margin

3.70%

3.57%

0.13

N/M

N/M - not meaningful


The Company’s net interest income improved modestly in the third quarter of 2010 increasing by $98,000 or 1.2%.  The Company’s third quarter 2010 net interest margin of 3.70% was also 13 basis points better than the 2009 third quarter margin of 3.57%.  This improved performance is reflective of the Company’s strong liquidity position and its ability to reduce its funding costs during a period of deposit growth.  Specifically, total deposits averaged $814 million in the third quarter of 2010, an increase of $29 million or 3.7% over the third quarter of 2009.  The Company believes that uncertainties in the economy have contributed to growth in money market accounts, certificates of deposit and demand deposits as consumers and businesses have looked for safety in well capitalized community banks like AmeriServ Financial.  Interest income has dropped as total loans outstanding have declined by $24 million or 3.3% since December 31, 2009 as we have focused on reducing our commercial real estate exposure during this period of economic weakness.  We believe that this declining loan trend will continue and it will have a negative impact on the net interest margin and net interest income in the fourth quarter of 2010.

  

.....COMPONENT CHANGES IN NET INTEREST INCOME..…Regarding the separate components of net interest income, the Company's total interest income for the third quarter of 2010 decreased by $638,000 or 5.5% when compared to the same 2009 quarter. This decrease was due to an 18 basis point decline in the earning asset yield to 5.11% and a $9.4 million or 1.1% drop in average earning assets between periods due to the previously mentioned decline in loans.  Investment securities have grown over this period but not enough to absorb the overall decline in total loans.  Within the earning asset base, the yield on the total loan portfolio decreased by nine basis points to 5.44% while the yield on total investment securities dropped by 51 basis points to 3.48%. Both of these yield declines reflect the impact of the lower interest rate environment that has now been in place for over two years.  New investment securities and loans that are being booked typically have yields that are below the rate on the maturing instruments that they are replacing.

       

The Company's total interest expense for the third quarter of 2010 decreased by $736,000 or 19.5% when compared to the same 2009 quarter.  This decrease in interest expense was due to a lower cost of funds as the cost of interest bearing liabilities declined by 38 basis points to 1.68%.  Management’s decision to reduce interest rates paid on all deposit categories has not had any negative impact on deposit growth as consumers have sought the safety provided by well-capitalized community banks like AmeriServ Financial.  This decrease in funding costs was aided by a drop in interest expense associated with a $10.7 million decrease in the volume of interest bearing liabilities.  Specifically, the average balance of all FHLB borrowings declined by $29.0 million, but was partially offset by an $18.3 million increase in interest bearing deposits.  Additionally, the Company’s funding mix also benefited from a $10.6 million increase in non-interest bearing demand deposits. Overall, in the third quarter of 2010 the Company had the discipline to further reduce its use of borrowings as a funding source as wholesale borrowings averaged only 1.5% of total assets.       

        

The table that follows provides an analysis of net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis for the three month periods ended September 30, 2010 and September 30, 2009 setting forth (i) average assets, liabilities, and stockholders' equity, (ii) interest income earned on interest earning assets and interest expense paid on interest bearing liabilities, (iii) average yields earned on interest earning assets and average rates paid on interest bearing liabilities, (iv) AmeriServ Financial's interest rate spread (the difference between the average yield earned on interest earning assets and the average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities), and (v) AmeriServ Financial's net interest margin (net interest income as a percentage of average total interest earning assets). For purposes of these tables, loan balances do include non-accrual loans, and interest income on loans includes loan fees or amortization of such fees which have been deferred, as well as interest recorded on certain non-accrual loans as cash is received.  Additionally, a tax rate of 34% is used to compute tax-equivalent yields.




7






Three months ended September 30 (In thousands, except percentages)


 

 

2010

 

 

 

2009

 

 

 

 

Interest

 

 

 

Interest

 

 

 

Average

Income/

Yield/

 

Average

Income/

Yield/

 

 

Balance

Expense

Rate

 

Balance

Expense

Rate

 

Interest earning assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans and loans held for sale,

  net of unearned income


$694,432


$  9,600


5.44


%


$730,152


$ 10,256


5.53


%

Interest bearing deposits

    1,781

  -

0.02

 

1,746

1

0.23

 

Short-term investment in money

  market funds


5,075


5


0.40

 


7,388


3


0.18

 

Federal funds sold

6,184

2

0.12

 

413

-

0.13

 

Investment securities – AFS

158,553

   1,354

3.41

 

131,145

1,295

3.95

 

Investment securities – HTM

    9,339

    107

4.65

 

  13,964

   152

4.35

 

Total investment securities

167,892

 1,461

3.48

 

145,109

1,447

3.99

 

Total interest earning

   assets/interest income


875,364


11,068


5.11

 


884,808


11,707


5.29

 

Non-interest earning assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and due from banks

14,889

 

 

 

14,135

 

 

 

Premises and equipment

 10,645

 

 

 

9,052

 

 

 

Other assets

80,888

 

 

 

73,296

 

 

 

Allowance for loan losses

  (21,173)

 

 

 

 (13,658)

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

$960,613

 

 

 

$967,633

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest bearing liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest bearing deposits:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Interest bearing demand

$   59,014

$     30

0.20

%

$   62,479

$     62

0.39

%

   Savings

 79,038

79

0.40

 

72,864

140

0.76

 

   Money markets

187,563

  410

0.87

 

182,735

630

1.37

 

   Other time

  363,327

  2,149

2.35

 

 352,584

 2,484

2.80

 

Total interest bearing deposits

688,942

 2,668

1.54

 

670,662

3,316

1.96

 

Short-term borrowings:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal funds purchased,   

   securities sold under        

   agreements to repurchase and    other short-term borrowings




 1,258




     2




0.69

 




29,851




45




0.60

 

Advances from Federal  

   Home Loan Bank


13,434


 87


2.57

 


13,828


132


3.77

 

Guaranteed junior subordinated     deferrable interest debentures


   13,085


   280


8.57

 


  13,085


   280


8.57

 

Total interest bearing

   liabilities/interest expense


  716,719


 3,037


1.68

 


727,426


3,773


2.06

 

Non-interest bearing liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Demand deposits

125,117

 

 

 

114,548

 

 

 

Other liabilities

 10,624

 

 

 

12,234

 

 

 

Shareholders' equity

  108,153

 

 

 

  113,425

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND

   SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY


$960,613

 

 

 


$967,633

 

 

 

Interest rate spread

 

 

3.43

 

 

 

3.23

 

Net interest income/

   Net interest margin

 


 8,031


3.70


%

 


7,934


3.57


%

Tax-equivalent adjustment

 

        (8)

 

 

 

        (9)

 

 

Net Interest Income

 

$  8,023

 

 

 

$  7,925

 

 





…..PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES..... The Company appropriately strengthened its allowance for loan losses over the past year in response to ongoing careful monitoring of the commercial loan and commercial real estate portfolios.  A weak economic environment caused higher levels of non-performing loans and classified loans.  When determining the provision for loan losses, the Company considers a number of factors some of which include periodic credit reviews, non-performing, delinquency and charge-off trends, concentrations of credit, loan volume trends and broader local and national economic trends.  


The Company recorded a $1.0 million provision for loan losses in the third quarter of 2010 compared to a $6.3 million provision in the third quarter of 2009, or a decrease of $5.3 million.  For the third quarter 2010, net charge-offs amounted to $984,000 or 0.56% of total loans compared to net charge-offs of $651,000 or 0.35% of total loans for the third quarter 2009.  The higher net charge-offs in the third quarter of 2010 relate largely to an additional  $535,000 charge-down of a non-performing student housing project which we are striving  to resolve through a note sale by the end of 2010.  Overall, during the third quarter, total non-performing assets increased by $5.7 million to $25.5 million or 3.64% of total loans as certain commercial borrowers continue to be impacted by the weak economy.  Of the total $5.7 million increase, $3.5 million relates to three commercial real estate loans that are each current on their payments but we still elected to transfer to non-performing status given our concern on the borrowers’ ultimate ability to service the debt.  In summary, the allowance for loan losses provided 84% coverage of non-performing loans at September 30, 2010 compared to 115% coverage of non-performing loans at December 31, 2009.

 

.....NON-INTEREST INCOME.....Non-interest income for the third quarter of 2010 totaled $3.5 million; an increase of $59,000 or 1.7% from the third quarter 2009 performance.  Factors contributing to this higher level of non-interest income in 2010 included:


*  a $65,000 increase in revenue generated on residential mortgage loan sales into the secondary market in 2010.  The Company has enjoyed another strong year in residential mortgage loan production and has elected to sell approximately 70% of this production into the secondary market in order to help manage long term interest rate risk.


*  a $114,000 increase in other income due to higher underwriting, appraisal and document preparation fees resulting from the increased residential mortgage loan production.  The Company also benefitted from higher letter of credit fees and interchange revenue.


*  a $147,000 decline in deposit service charges due to a reduced volume of overdraft fees.  Customers have maintained higher balances in their checking accounts which has resulted in fewer overdraft fees in 2010.  Additionally, the third quarter 2010 deposit service charges were impacted by regulatory changes which took effect in mid-August and were designed to limit customer overdraft fees on debit card transactions.

   

.....NON-INTEREST EXPENSE.....Non-interest expense for the third quarter of 2010 totaled $9.8 million and increased by $208,000 or 2.2% from the prior year’s third quarter. Factors contributing to the higher non-interest expense in 2010 included:


*   a $301,000 or 5.9% increase in salaries and employee benefits expense due to increased medical insurance costs, higher pension expense and modest merit salary increases in 2010.


*  a $119,000 increase in FDIC deposit insurance expense due to the higher assessment rate charged to strengthen the deposit insurance fund and the Company’s increased deposit base in 2010.


*   a $164,000 decrease in other expense due to lower other real estate owned costs and telephone expense in 2010.


NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 VS. NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009


.....PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW.....The following table summarizes some of the Company's key performance indicators (in thousands, except per share and ratios).

 

 

 Nine months  ended

  Nine months  ended

 

September 30, 2010

September 30, 2009

   Net income (loss)

$       168

$    (3,216)

   Diluted loss per share

 (0.03)

(0.19)

   Return on average assets (annualized)

 0.02%

(0.44)%

   Return on average equity (annualized)

 0.21%

(3.77)%


The Company reported for the first nine months of 2010 net income of $168,000 or $0.03 loss per diluted common share which was a significant improvement over the net loss of $3.2 million or $0.19 per diluted common share reported for the first nine months of 2009.  The benefit of a lower loan loss provision and higher net interest income caused the earnings improvement in 2010.  These positive items were partially offset by increased non-interest expense and a reduced amount of non-interest income.  Diluted earnings per share also declined by the preferred dividend requirement on the CPP preferred stock which amounted to $788,000 and reduced the amount of net income available to common shareholders.         


.....NET INTEREST INCOME AND MARGIN..... The following table compares the Company's net interest income performance for the first nine months of 2010 to the first nine months of 2009 (in thousands, except percentages):



Nine months  ended

September 30, 2010

Nine months  ended

September 30, 2009


 Change


% Change

Interest income

$  33,975

$ 35,688

$    (1,713)

(4.8)%

Interest expense

      9,623

     11,451

     (1,828)

      (16.0)

Net interest income

 $ 24,352

$ 24,237

$         115

        0.5

 

 

 

 

 

Net interest margin

3.77%

3.65%

0.12

N/M

N/M - not meaningful


The Company’s net interest income in the first nine months of 2010 was modestly higher than the same prior year period as it increased by $115,000 or 0.5%.  Careful management of funding costs during a period when interest revenues are declining has allowed the Company to increase its net interest margin by 12 basis points to 3.77% for the first nine months of 2010.  This consistency in net interest income and margin performance is reflective of the Company’s strong liquidity position and its ability to reduce its funding costs during a period of deposit growth. Specifically, total deposits averaged $801 million in the first nine months of 2010, an increase of $45 million or 5.9% over the first nine months of 2009.  Overall, these effective balance sheet management strategies caused the cost of funds to decrease by 31 basis points while the earning asset yield dropped by a lesser amount of 12 basis points. The earning asset yield did benefit from approximately $150,000 in loan prepayment penalties in 2010 as we have focused on reducing our commercial real estate exposure this year.

  

.....COMPONENT CHANGES IN NET INTEREST INCOME..…Regarding the separate components of net interest income, the Company's total interest income for the first nine months of 2010 decreased by $1.7 million or 4.8% when compared to the same 2009 period. This decrease was due to a 12 basis point decline in the earning asset yield to 5.28% coupled with a drop in average earning assets which was $10.1 million between periods.  Within the earning asset base, the yield on the total loan portfolio decreased by 13 basis points to 5.56% while the yield on total investment securities dropped by 44 basis points to 3.68%.  Both of these yield declines reflect the impact of the lower interest rate environment that has now been in place for over two years.  New investment securities and loans that are being booked typically have yields that are below the rate on the maturing instruments that they are replacing. Also the asset mix shift with fewer dollars invested in loans and more dollars invested in lower yielding short duration investment securities also negatively impacts the earning asset yield.  We expect this trend to continue during the fourth quarter of 2010 as we are focused on further reducing our exposure to commercial real estate.  Additionally, our pipelines for new commercial and industrial lending opportunities continue to be thin.  Consequently, we expect to book fewer new commercial loans which will cause the loan portfolio to shrink further through normal amortization and some anticipated early loan pay-offs.  

       

The Company's total interest expense for the first nine months of 2010 decreased by $1.8 million or 16.0% when compared to the same 2009 period.  This decrease in interest expense was due to a lower cost of funds as the cost of interest bearing liabilities declined by 31 basis points to 1.79%.  Management’s decision to reduce interest rates paid on all deposit categories has not had any negative impact on deposit growth as consumers have sought the safety provided by well-capitalized community banks like AmeriServ Financial.   This decrease in funding costs was aided by a drop in interest expense associated with a $10.9 million decrease in the volume of interest bearing liabilities.  Specifically, the average balance of all FHLB borrowings declined by $48.5 million, but was partially offset by a $37.6 million increase in interest bearing deposits.         

        

The table that follows provides an analysis of net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2010 and September 30, 2009.  For a detailed discussion of the components and assumptions included in the table, see the paragraph before the quarterly table on page 23.   




8






Nine months ended September 30 (In thousands, except percentages)


 

 

2010

 

 

 

2009

 

 

 

 

Interest

 

 

 

Interest

 

 

 

Average

Income/

Yield/

 

Average

Income/

Yield/

 

 

Balance

Expense

Rate

 

Balance

Expense

Rate

 

Interest earning assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans and loans held for sale,

  net of unearned income


$705,656


$  29,621


5.56


%


$725,657


$ 31,169


5.69


%

Interest bearing deposits

    1,785

  1

0.09

 

1,762

3

0.23

 

Short-term investment in money

  market funds


4,301


12


0.39

 


9,804


25


0.36

 

Federal funds sold

3,754

4

0.09

 

156

-

0.14

 

Investment securities – AFS

148,053

   4,029

3.63

 

131,295

4,030

4.00

 

Investment securities – HTM

    9,841

    333

4.51

 

  14,851

   490

4.40

 

Total investment securities

157,894

 4,362

3.68

 

146,146

4,520

4.12

 

Total interest earning

   assets/interest income


873,390


34,000


5.28

 


883,525


35,717


5.40

 

Non-interest earning assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and due from banks

14,952

 

 

 

14,543

 

 

 

Premises and equipment

 10,011

 

 

 

9,207

 

 

 

Other assets

80,141

 

 

 

72,124

 

 

 

Allowance for loan losses

  (21,347)

 

 

 

 (11,301)

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

$957,147

 

 

 

$968,098

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest bearing liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest bearing deposits:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Interest bearing demand

$   58,247

$   120

0.27

%

$   62,050

$     201

0.43

%

   Savings

 77,701

324

0.56

 

72,537

412

0.76

 

   Money markets

186,229

  1,307

0.94

 

165,065

1,915

1.55

 

   Other time

  357,165

  6,677

2.50

 

 342,076

 7,447

2.91

 

Total interest bearing deposits

679,342

 8,428

1.66

 

641,728

9,975

2.08

 

Short-term borrowings:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal funds purchased,   

   securities sold under        

   agreements to repurchase and    other short-term borrowings




 2,963




     15




0.67

 




59,037




245




0.55

 

Advances from Federal  

   Home Loan Bank


21,419


 340


2.12

 


13,840


391


3.77

 

Guaranteed junior subordinated     deferrable interest debentures


   13,085


   840


8.57

 


  13,085


   840


8.57

 

Total interest bearing

   liabilities/interest expense


  716,809


 9,623


1.79

 


727,690


11,451


2.10

 

Non-interest bearing liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Demand deposits

121,712

 

 

 

114,365

 

 

 

Other liabilities

 11,290

 

 

 

12,137

 

 

 

Shareholders' equity

  107,336

 

 

 

  113,906

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND

   SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY


$957,147

 

 

 


$968,098

 

 

 

Interest rate spread

 

 

3.49

 

 

 

3.30

 

Net interest income/

   Net interest margin

 


 24,377


3.77


%

 


24,266


3.65


%

Tax-equivalent adjustment

 

       (25)

 

 

 

       (29)

 

 

Net Interest Income

 

$ 24,352

 

 

 

$ 24,237

 

 





…..PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES.....  The Company recorded a $5.3 million provision for loan losses in the first nine months of 2010 compared to an $11.4 million provision in the first nine months of 2009, or a decrease of $6.2 million.  Proactive monitoring of our asset quality has allowed us to carefully adjust downward the provision for loan losses for four consecutive quarters while still maintaining solid loan loss reserve coverage ratios.  We actively identify and seek prompt resolution to problem credits in order to limit actual losses.   Actual credit losses realized through charge-offs in 2010 are running below the provision level but are higher than the prior year.  For the first nine months of 2010, net charge-offs amounted to $4.2 million or 0.79% of total loans compared to net charge-offs of $1.1 million or 0.19% of total loans for the first nine months of 2009.  The higher charge-offs in 2010 primarily relate to two non-performing commercial real-estate loans, one of which was completely resolved in the first quarter ($1.2 million charge-off) and the second of which relates to a student housing project ($2.3 million charge-off) which the Company is striving to resolve through a note sale by the end of 2010.  The allowance for loan losses was 2.97% of total loans at September 30, 2010, compared to 2.72% of total loans at December 31, 2009.

 

.....NON-INTEREST INCOME.....Non-interest income for the first nine months of 2010 totaled $10.2 million; a decrease of $305,000 or 2.9% from the first nine months 2009 performance.  Factors contributing to this reduced level of non-interest income in 2010 included:


*  a $347,000 decline in deposit service charges due to a reduced volume of overdraft fees.  Customers have maintained higher balances in their checking accounts which has resulted in fewer overdraft fees in 2010.  Additionally, deposit service charges were impacted by regulatory changes which took effect in mid-August 2010 and were designed to limit customer overdraft fees on debit card transactions.


*  a $190,000 decrease in trust fees as a result of reductions in the market value of certain real estate assets we manage in our specialty real estate funds in 2010.

 

*  a $60,000 increase in investment advisory fees due to improved equity values in the first nine months of 2010 when compared to 2009.


*  a $74,000 increase in revenue generated on residential mortgage loan sales in the secondary market as the Company has enjoyed another strong year in residential mortgage loan production within its primary Western Pennsylvania markets in 2010.

   

.....NON-INTEREST EXPENSE.....Non-interest expense for the first nine months of 2010 totaled $29.3 million and increased by $960,000 or 3.4% from the prior year’s first nine months. Factors contributing to the higher non-interest expense in 2010 included:


*  a $661,000 or 4.4% increase in salaries and employee benefits expense due to increased salaries, medical insurance costs and higher pension expense in 2010.  


*  a $407,000 increase in professional fees due primarily to increased consulting expenses and recruitment costs in the Trust company and higher legal fees related to loan workout strategies at the Bank.




.....INCOME TAX EXPENSE.....The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $189,000 in the first nine months of 2010.  The income tax benefit recorded in the first nine months of 2009 was $1.8 million and reflected an effective tax rate of approximately 35.9%.  The Company’s only significant source of tax free income is earnings from Bank Owned Life Insurance. The Company’s deferred tax asset was $15.3 million at September 30, 2010 and relates primarily to net operating loss carryforwards and the allowance for loan losses.


…..SEGMENT RESULTS.….Retail banking’s net income contribution was $458,000 and $952,000 in the third quarter and first nine months of 2010 compared to $441,000 and $914,000   for the same comparable periods of 2009.  The improved performance in 2010 is due to increased net interest income generated on the higher level of deposits and a lower provision for loan losses.  These positive items more than offset reduced revenue from overdraft fees and deposit service charges.


The commercial lending segment reported for 2010 a net income for the third quarter of $192,000 and a net loss of $614,000 for the first nine months compared to net losses of $3.2 million in the third quarter and $4.9 million for the first nine months of 2009.  The increased earnings in 2010 were caused primarily by a reduced provision for loan losses due to the previously discussed proactive monitoring of our asset quality.  


The trust segment’s net income contribution in the third quarter amounted to $95,000 and $164,000 for the first nine months of 2010 compared to $68,000 and $316,000 for the same 2009 periods.  The increase in net income during the quarter comparison resulted from a decline in expenses particularly within our investment advisory subsidiary.  The major reason for the decrease for the nine month period was due to less trust revenue as a result of declines experienced in the real estate markets during the past year.  This segment also experienced an increase in non-interest expenses in the first part of 2010 due to increased legal, consulting and recruitment fees.


The investment/parent segment reported net losses of $136,000 in the third quarter and $334,000 for the first nine months of 2010 compared to the net loss of $73,000 for the third quarter of 2009 and net income earned of $420,000 realized in the first nine months of 2009.  The weaker performance in 2010 reflects lower non-interest revenue and higher non-interest expense. Also, declining yields in the investment securities portfolio have also negatively impacted this segment.


.....BALANCE SHEET.....The Company's total consolidated assets were $963 million at September 30, 2010, which was down modestly by $6.9 million or 0.7% from the $970 million level at December 31, 2009. The Company’s loans totaled $699 million at September 30, 2010, a decrease of $23.5 million or 3.3% as a result of net portfolio run-off since year-end.  We plan to further reduce our commercial real estate loan concentration through the funding of fewer new commercial real estate loans in the fourth quarter of 2010 so we expect the loan portfolio to shrink further this year.  Investment securities increased by $22.4 million so far in 2010 due to principal repayments in the loan portfolio being reinvested in the investment securities portfolio.  We also expect this trend to continue in the fourth quarter of 2010.  The $1.6 million increase in premises and equipment related to the costs associated with the construction of a new branch office in the State College market.   

  

The Company’s deposits totaled $818 million at September 30, 2010, which was $32.1 million or 4.1% higher than December 31, 2009, due to an increase in almost all deposit categories.  We believe that uncertainties in the financial markets and the economy have contributed to growth in our deposits as consumers and businesses have looked for safety in well capitalized community banks like AmeriServ Financial.  As a result of this deposit growth, we were able to reduce total FHLB borrowings by $38.5 million during the first nine months of 2010.  Total FHLB borrowings now represent only 1.4% of total assets compared to 5.3% at December 31, 2009.  The Company’s total shareholders’ equity has increased by $1.1 million since year-end 2009 mainly due to the increase in market value of the securities portfolio in 2010.  The Company continues to be considered well capitalized for regulatory purposes with a risk based capital ratio of 15.97%, and an asset leverage ratio of 11.07% at September 30, 2010.  The Company’s tangible book value per common share at September 30, 2010 was $3.52, and its tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio was 7.86%.


.....LOAN QUALITY.....The following table sets forth information concerning the Company’s loan delinquency, non-performing assets, and classified assets (in thousands, except percentages):

 

 

 

 

 

September 30,

December 31,

September 30,

 

2010

2009

2009

  Total loan delinquency (past

 

 

 

         due 30 to 89 days)

$  2,260

$  11,408

$  3,252

  Total non-accrual loans

 15,715

17,116

20,464

  Total non-performing assets including

         TDR*

25,499

  18,337

23,689

 

 

 

 

Loan delinquency, as a percentage

      of total loans and loans held for

      sale, net of unearned income



0.32%



1.58%



0.45%

   Non-accrual loans, as a percentage

        of total loans and loans held for

        sale, net of unearned income



2.25



2.37



2.83

  Non-performing assets, as a

        percentage of total loans and loans

        held for sale, net of unearned income,

        and other real estate owned




3.64




2.53




3.26

   Non-performing assets as a percentage

        of total assets


2.65


1.89


2.47

Total classified loans (loans rated substandard or doubtful)


$47,484

  

$48,689


$43,900

        *Non-performing assets are comprised of (i) loans that are on a non-accrual basis, (ii) loans that are contractually past due 90 days or more as to interest and principal payments, (iii) performing loans classified as a troubled debt restructuring and (iv) other real estate owned.   

  

As a result of the recessionary economy, non-performing assets have trended upward over the past year and now total $25.5 million or 3.64% of total loans.  Of the total $5.7 million increase during the third quarter of 2010, $3.5 million relates to three commercial real estate loans that are each current on their payments but we still elected to transfer to non-performing status given our concern on the borrowers’ ultimate ability to service the debt.  The three largest credits included in the non-performing asset balance are:  1) An $8.8 million commercial loan relationship to a borrower in the restaurant industry that is presently classified as a performing troubled debt restructuring.  The Company originally restructured this loan at its maturity by entering into a forbearance agreement with the borrower to make reduced payments over a six-month period in an effort to give the borrower greater flexibility to restructure its operations to improve its cash flows during this difficult economic period.  The Company has never had any payment delinquency with this borrower.  The borrower is making principal and interest payments in accordance with a new loan agreement and with the most recent Shared National Credit Examination this loan was removed from non-accrual status as of September 30, 2010.  A $3.2 million specific reserve has been established against this credit.  We currently anticipate that this loan will be removed from troubled debt restructure status by year-end 2010 along with an expected reduction in the amount of required specific reserve allocation.  2) A $2.8 million loan to a borrower in the heavy construction equipment rental business. This borrower was experiencing cash flow difficulties that caused payment delinquency.  Repossession efforts to take control of the equipment were delayed by the borrower’s bankruptcy reorganization filing during September 2010.  A $1.4 million specific reserve has been established against this credit.   3) In the first quarter of 2010, we transferred a $5 million commercial real estate loan that is secured by newly constructed student housing into non-accrual status since the project has not yet stabilized to support the required principal payments on the loan.  We are a participant in this loan with two larger banks and our share represents 12.5% of the total loan balance.  During the second quarter we charged this loan down by $1.8 million and took an additional $535,000 charge-off in the third quarter after an expected note sale failed to materialize.  We continue to maintain a $630,000 specific reserve allocation against this loan for the estimated potential collateral shortfall in the event of a foreclosure.  We are still striving to resolve this problem credit through a note sale by the end of 2010.    


Classified loans are relatively consistent with the prior presented periods and include the downgrade of the rating classification of several commercial loans that are experiencing operating weakness in the recessionary economy but are still performing.  Overall loan delinquency levels have moved back below 1.0% as of September 30, 2010 and show limited credits in early stage delinquency.   We continue to closely monitor the portfolio given the weakness in the economy and the number of relatively large-sized commercial and commercial real estate loans within the portfolio.  As of September 30, 2010, the 25 largest credits represented 33.2% of total loans outstanding.


.....ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES.....The following table sets forth the allowance for loan losses and certain ratios for the periods ended (in thousands, except percentages):


 

September 30,  

December  31,

September 30,  

 

2010

2009

2009

Allowance for loan losses

$20,753

$19,685

$19,255

Allowance for loan losses as  

 

 

 

   a percentage of each of

 

 

 

   the following:

 

 

 

       total loans and loans held for sale,

 

 

 

         net of unearned income

      2.97%

      2.72%

2.66%

       total delinquent loans

 

 

 

         (past due 30 to 89 days)

    918.27

172.55

592.10

       total non-accrual loans

    132.06

115.01

  94.09

       total non-performing assets

      81.39

107.35

  81.28

  

There has been a steady build in the allowance for loan losses over the periods presented.  This reflects the Company’s ongoing disciplined approach to monitoring asset quality and promptly identifying and establishing appropriate reserves on problem loans.  The Company decided to build its allowance for loan losses over the past year due to the increase in non-performing loans, the downgrade of the rating classification of numerous performing commercial loans, and the weakness in the local and national economies.  The allowance for loan losses to total loans ratio increased to 2.97% since year-end 2009 as the loan loss provision exceeded net charge-offs in the first nine months of 2010 and the size of the loan portfolio has declined.  



.....LIQUIDITY.....The Bank’s liquidity position has been strong during the last several years.  Our core retail deposit base remained stable throughout the early part of this period and has recently shown nice growth, which has been more than adequate to fund the Bank’s operations.  Cash flow from maturities, prepayments and amortization of securities was also used to either fund loan growth or paydown borrowings.  We strive to operate our loan to deposit ratio in a range of 85% to 95%.  At September 30, 2010, the Bank’s loan to deposit ratio was 85.5%.


Liquidity can be analyzed by utilizing the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Cash and cash equivalents decreased by $5.3 million from December 31, 2009, to September 30, 2010, due to $7.0 million of cash used in financing activities and $1.1 million of cash used in investing activities.  This was partially offset by $2.9 million of cash provided by operating activities.  Within investing activities, cash used for new investment security purchases exceeded maturities and sales by $20.3 million.  Cash advanced for new loan fundings and purchases (excluding residential mortgages sold in the secondary market) totaled $67 million and was $21.9 million lower than the $88.8 million of cash received from loan principal payments and sales.  Within financing activities, deposits increased by $32.3 million, which was used to pay down short-term borrowings by $23.4 million.   


The Parent Company had $17.3 million of cash, short-term investments, and securities at September 30, 2010, which was down $2.6 million from the year-end 2009 total.  We have elected to retain $14 million of the total $21 million in funds received from the CPP preferred stock at the Parent Company to provide us with greater liquidity and financial flexibility.  ($7 million of the CPP funds were downstreamed to our subsidiary bank to help the Bank maintain compliance with our own internal capital guidelines.)  Additionally, dividend payments from our subsidiaries can also provide ongoing cash to the Parent.  At September 30, 2010, however, the subsidiary bank did not have any cash available for immediate dividends to the Parent under the applicable regulatory formulas because of the loss it incurred in 2009.  The Bank will not provide any dividend support to the Parent Company in 2010.  As such, the Parent Company will use its ample supply of cash and short term investments to continue to meet its trust preferred debt service requirements and preferred stock dividends which approximate $2.1 million annually.  


.....CAPITAL RESOURCES.....The Company continues to be considered well capitalized as the asset leverage ratio was 11.07% and the risk based capital ratio was 15.97% at September 30, 2010.  Note that the impact of other comprehensive loss is excluded from the regulatory capital ratios.  At September 30, 2010, accumulated other comprehensive loss amounted to $2.7 million. The Company’s tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio was 7.86% at September 30, 2010.  We anticipate that our strong capital ratios should grow modestly in the final quarter of 2010 due to the retention of all earnings and no expected balance sheet growth which will be partially offset by preferred dividend requirements.


Our decision to accept the $21 million CPP preferred stock investment in December 2008 did strengthen our capital ratios.  However as a result of this decision, for a period of three years we are no longer permitted to repurchase stock or declare and pay common dividends without the consent of the U.S. Treasury.  The Company presently does not expect to repay any portion of the CPP preferred stock investment prior to 2012 given the uncertainties in the economy and the need for the subsidiary bank to return to sustained profitability.




.....INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY.....The following table presents an analysis of the sensitivity inherent in the Company’s net interest income and market value of portfolio equity.  The interest rate scenarios in the table compare the Company’s base forecast, which was prepared using a flat interest rate scenario, to scenarios that reflect immediate interest rate changes of 100 and 200 basis points.  Note that we suspended the 200 basis point downward rate shock since it has little value due to the absolute low level of interest rates.  Each rate scenario contains unique prepayment and repricing assumptions that are applied to the Company’s existing balance sheet that was developed under the flat interest rate scenario.


Interest Rate

Scenario

Variability of Net Interest Income

Change in Market Value of Portfolio Equity

 

 

 

200bp increase

6.8%

16.7%

100bp increase

6.0

13.0

100bp decrease

                  (11.7)

(18.4)


The variability of net interest income is negative in the 100 basis point downward rate scenario as the Company has more exposure to assets repricing downward to a greater extent than liabilities due to the absolute low level of interest rates with the fed funds rate currently at 0.25%.  The variability of net interest income is positive in the upward rate shocks as the Company has better diversified its loan portfolio with the interest rate on more loans now tied to LIBOR.  Also, the Company expects that it will not have to reprice its core deposit accounts up as quickly when interest rates rise.  The market value of portfolio equity increases in the upward rate shocks due to the improved value of the Company’s core deposit base. Negative variability of market value of portfolio equity occurs in the downward rate shock due to a reduced value for core deposits.   

     

.....OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS…..The Bank incurs off-balance sheet risks in the normal course of business in order to meet the financing needs of its customers. These risks derive from commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. Such commitments and standby letters of credit involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated financial statements. The Company had various outstanding commitments to extend credit approximating $85.8 million and standby letters of credit of $12.4 million as of September 30, 2010. The Company’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to these commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by their contractual amounts. The Bank uses the same credit and collateral policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as for all other lending.  


.....CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES.....The accounting and reporting policies of the Company are in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and conform to general practices within the banking industry.  Accounting and reporting policies for the allowance for loan losses, goodwill, income taxes, and investment securities are deemed critical because they involve the use of estimates and require significant management judgments. Application of assumptions that differ from actual performance could result in material changes in the Company’s financial position or results of operation.






Account Allowance for Loan Losses


Balance Sheet Reference Allowance for Loan Losses


Income Statement Reference – Provision for Loan Losses


Description


The allowance for loan losses is calculated with the objective of maintaining reserve levels believed by management to be sufficient to absorb estimated probable credit losses. Management’s determination of the adequacy of the allowance is based on periodic evaluations of the credit portfolio and other relevant factors.  However, this evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates, including, among others, likelihood of customer default, loss given default, exposure at default, the amounts and timing of expected future cash flows on impaired loans, value of collateral, estimated losses on consumer loans and residential mortgages, and general amounts for historical loss experience.  This process also considers economic conditions, uncertainties in estimating losses and inherent risks in the various credit portfolios.  All of these factors may be susceptible to significant change.  Also, the allocation of the allowance for credit losses to specific loan pools is based on historical loss trends and management’s judgment concerning those trends.


Commercial loans and commercial mortgages are the largest category of credits and the most sensitive to changes in assumptions and judgments underlying the determination of the allowance for loan loss.  Approximately $18.1 million, or 87%, of the total allowance for credit losses at September 30, 2010 has been allocated to these two loan categories.  This allocation also considers other relevant factors such as actual versus estimated losses, economic trends, delinquencies, concentrations of credit, trends in loan volume, experience and depth of management, examination and audit results, effects of any changes in lending policies and trends in policy, financial information and documentation exceptions.  To the extent actual outcomes differ from management estimates, additional provision for credit losses may be required that would adversely impact earnings in future periods.


Account — Goodwill and core deposit intangibles


Balance Sheet Reference — Goodwill and core deposit intangibles


Income Statement Reference Goodwill impairment and amortization of core deposit intangibles


Description


The Company considers our accounting policies related to goodwill and core deposit intangibles to be critical because the assumptions or judgment used in determining the fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in past acquisitions are subjective and complex.  As a result, changes in these assumptions or judgment could have a significant impact on our financial condition or results of operations.


The fair value of acquired assets and liabilities, including the resulting goodwill, was based either on quoted market prices or provided by other third party sources, when available.  When third party information was not available, estimates were made in good faith by management primarily through the use of internal cash flow modeling techniques.  The assumptions that were used in the cash flow modeling were subjective and are susceptible to significant changes.  The Company routinely utilizes the services of an independent third party that is regarded within the banking industry as an expert in valuing core deposits to monitor the ongoing value and changes in the Company’s core deposit base.  These core deposit valuation updates are based upon specific data provided from statistical analysis of the Bank’s own deposit behavior to estimate the duration of these non-maturity deposits combined with market interest rates and other economic factors.


Goodwill arising from business combinations represents the value attributable to unidentifiable intangible elements in the business acquired.  The Company’s goodwill relates to value inherent in the banking business and the value is dependent upon the Company’s ability to provide quality, cost-effective services in the face of free competition from other market participants on a regional basis.  This ability relies upon continuing investments in processing systems, the development of value-added service features and the ease of use of the Company’s services.  As such, goodwill value is supported ultimately by revenue that is driven by the volume of business transacted and the loyalty of the Company’s depositors over a longer time frame.  The quality and value of a Company’s assets is also an important factor to consider when performing goodwill impairment testing.  A decline in earnings as a result of a lack of growth or the inability to deliver cost-effective value added services over sustained periods can lead to impairment of goodwill.


Goodwill which has an indefinite useful life is tested for impairment at least annually and written down and charged to results of operations only in periods in which the recorded value is more than the estimated fair value.  The Company’s testing in 2009 indicated that its goodwill was not impaired.  However, deteriorating economic conditions could result in impairment, which would adversely affect earnings in future periods.  During the third quarter of 2009, the Company did reduce the goodwill allocated to West Chester Capital Advisors (WCCA) by $547,000.  This reduction resulted from a purchase price adjustment as the principals of WCCA did not fully earn a deferred contingent payment that had been accrued for at the time of acquisition.  There was no such reduction in 2010.     


Account — Income Taxes


Balance Sheet Reference — Deferred Tax Asset and Current Taxes Payable


Income Statement Reference — Provision for Income Taxes


Description


The provision for income taxes is the sum of income taxes both currently payable and deferred.  The changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based upon the changes in differences between the basis of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the basis of assets and liabilities as measured by the enacted tax rates that management estimates will be in effect when the differences reverse.  


In relation to recording the provision for income taxes, management must estimate the future tax rates applicable to the reversal of tax differences, make certain assumptions regarding whether tax differences are permanent or temporary and the related time of expected reversal.  Also, estimates are made as to whether taxable operating income in future periods will be sufficient to fully recognize any gross deferred tax assets.  If recovery is not likely, we must increase our provision for taxes by recording a valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets that we estimate will not ultimately be recoverable.   Alternatively, we may make estimates about the potential usage of deferred tax assets that decrease our valuation allowances.  As of September 30, 2010, we believe that all of the deferred tax assets recorded on our balance sheet will ultimately be recovered and no valuation allowances were needed.


In addition, the calculation of our tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax regulations.  We recognize liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues based on our estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due.  If we ultimately determine that payment of these amounts is unnecessary, we reverse the liability and recognize a tax benefit during the period in which we determine that the liability is no longer necessary.  We record an additional charge in our provision for taxes in the period in which we determine that the recorded tax liability is less than we expect the ultimate assessment to be.  


ACCOUNT Investment Securities


BALANCE SHEET REFERENCE — Investment Securities


INCOME STATEMENT REFERENCE — Net realized gains (losses) on investment securities  


DESCRIPTION


Available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities are reviewed quarterly for possible other-than-temporary impairment.  The review includes an analysis of the facts and circumstances of each individual investment such as the severity of loss, the length of time the fair value has been below cost, the expectation for that security’s performance, the creditworthiness of the issuer and the Company’s intent and ability to hold the security to recovery.  A decline in value that is considered to be other-than-temporary is recorded as a loss within non-interest income in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.  At September 30, 2010, all of the unrealized losses in the available-for-sale security portfolio were comprised of securities issued by government agencies, the U.S. Treasury or government sponsored agencies.  The Company believes the unrealized losses are primarily a result of increases in market yields from the time of purchase.  In general, as market yields rise, the fair value of securities will decrease; as market yields fall, the fair value of securities will increase.   Management generally views changes in fair value caused by changes in interest rates as temporary; therefore, these securities have not been classified as other-than-temporarily impaired.  Management has also concluded that based on current information we expect to continue to receive scheduled interest payments as well as the entire principal balance.  Furthermore, management does not intend to sell these securities and does not believe we will be required to sell these securities before they recover in value.


.....FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENT.....


THE STRATEGIC FOCUS:


The challenge for the future is to improve earnings performance to peer levels through a disciplined focus on community banking and improving the profitability of our Trust Company.  In accordance with our strategic plan, AmeriServ will maintain its focus as a community bank delivering banking and trust services to the best of our ability.  This Company will not succumb to the lure of quick fixes and fancy financial gimmicks.  It is our plan to continue to build AmeriServ into a potent banking force in this region and in this industry.  Our focus encompasses the following:


• Customer Service - it is the existing and prospective customer that AmeriServ must satisfy.  This means good products and fair prices.  But it also means quick response time and professional competence.  It means speedy problem resolution and a minimizing of bureaucratic frustrations.  AmeriServ is training and motivating its staff to meet these standards.


• Revenue Growth - It is necessary for AmeriServ to focus on growing revenues.  This means loan growth, deposit growth and fee growth. It also means close coordination between all customer service areas so as many revenue producing products as possible can be presented to existing and prospective customers.  The Company’s Strategic Plan contains action plans in each of these areas.  This challenge will be met by seeking to exceed customer expectations in every area.  An examination of the peer bank database provides ample proof that a well executed community banking business model can generate a reliable and rewarding revenue stream.


• Expense Rationalization – despite the set back in 2009 due to higher FDIC insurance and OREO expense, AmeriServ Financial remains focused on trying to rationalize expenses.  This has not been a program of broad based cuts, but has been targeted so AmeriServ stays strong but spends less.  However, this initiative takes on new importance because it is critical to be certain that future expenditures are directed to areas that are playing a positive role in the drive to improve revenues.


This Form 10-Q contains various forward-looking statements and includes assumptions concerning the Company’s beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, anticipations, estimates, intentions, operations, future results, and prospects, including statements that include the words “may,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan” or similar expressions.  These forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and are subject to risk and uncertainties. In connection with the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the Company provides the following cautionary statement identifying important factors (some of which are beyond the Company’s control) which could cause the actual results or events to differ materially from those set forth in or implied by the forward-looking statements and related assumptions.


Such factors include the following: (i) the effect of changing regional and national economic conditions; (ii) the effects of trade, monetary and fiscal policies and laws, including interest rate policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System; (iii) significant changes in interest rates and prepayment speeds; (iv) inflation, stock and bond market, and monetary fluctuations; (v) credit risks of commercial, real estate, consumer, and other lending activities; (vi) changes in federal and state banking and financial services laws and regulations; (vii) the presence in the Company’s market area of competitors with greater financial resources than the Company; (viii) the timely development of competitive new products and services by the Company and the acceptance of those products and services by customers and regulators (when required); (ix) the willingness of customers to substitute competitors’ products and services for those of the Company and vice versa; (x) changes in consumer spending and savings habits; (xi) unanticipated regulatory or judicial proceedings; and (xii) other external developments which could materially impact the Company’s operational and financial performance.


The foregoing list of important factors is not exclusive, and neither such list nor any forward-looking statement takes into account the impact that any future acquisition may have on the Company and on any such forward-looking statement.


Item 3.....QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK.....The Company manages market risk, which for the Company is primarily interest rate risk, through its asset liability management process and committee, see further discussion in Interest Rate Sensitivity section of the M.D. & A.  


Item 4T.....CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.....(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.  The Company’s management carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and the operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of September 30, 2010, pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15.  Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer along with the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2010, are effective.


(b) Changes in Internal Controls.  There have been no changes in AmeriServ Financial Inc.’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.


Part II     Other Information


Item 1.   Legal Proceedings


There are no material proceedings to which the Company or any of our subsidiaries are a party or by which, to the Company’s’ knowledge, we, or any of our subsidiaries, are threatened.  All legal proceedings presently pending or threatened against the Company or our subsidiaries involve routine litigation incidental to our business or that of the subsidiary involved and are not material in respect to the amount in controversy.


Item 1A.   Risk Factors


   There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.


Item 2.   Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds


As a result of the decision by the Company to accept a preferred stock investment under the U.S. Treasury’s CPP for a period of three years the Company is no longer permitted to repurchase stock or declare and pay dividends on common stock without the consent of the U.S. Treasury.


Item 3.   Defaults Upon Senior Securities


   None


Item 4.   (Removed and Reserved)


Item 5.   Other Information


   None


Item 6.   Exhibits

 

 3.1

Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation as amended through December 23, 2009, exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K filed on December 23, 2009.

 

 

 3.2

Bylaws, as amended and restated on December 17, 2009, Exhibit 3.2 to the Form 8-K filed December 23, 2009.

 

 

 3.3

Certificate of Designation of Rights of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.)

 

 

15.1

Report of S.R. Snodgrass, A.C. regarding unaudited interim financial statement

information.

 

 

31.1

Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

31.2

Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.2

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

   

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


 

AmeriServ Financial, Inc.  

 

Registrant

 

 

Date: November 4, 2010

/s/Glenn L. Wilson

 

Glenn L. Wilson

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

Date: November 4, 2010

/s/Jeffrey A. Stopko

 

Jeffrey A. Stopko

 

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer





9





Exhibit 99.1



REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM



Audit Committee

AmeriServ Financial, Inc.


We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of AmeriServ Financial, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries as of September 30, 2010; the related consolidated statements of operations for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2010 and 2009; and the consolidated statement of cash flows for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2010 and 2009.  These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.


We conducted our review in accordance with standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures to financial data and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters.  It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole.  Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.


Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying financial statements for them to be in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.


We have previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2009, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein), and in our report dated February 26, 2010, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.



/s/S.R. Snodgrass, A.C.



Wexford, Pennsylvania

November 4, 2010





10





Exhibit 15.1



November 4, 2010




AmeriServ Financial, Inc.

216 Franklin Street

PO Box 520

Johnstown, PA 15907-0520


We have reviewed, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the unaudited interim financial information of AmeriServ Financial, Inc. for the period ended September 30, 2010, as indicated in our report dated November 4, 2010.  Because we did not perform an audit, we expressed no opinion on that information.


We are aware that our report referred to above, which is included in your Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2010, is incorporated by reference in the following Registration Statements:


Registration Statement No. 33-56604 on Form S-3

Registration Statement No. 33-53935 on Form S-8

Registration Statement No. 33-55207 on Form S-8

Registration Statement No. 33-55211 on Form S-8

Registration Statement No. 333-67600 on Form S-8

Registration Statement No. 333-50225 on Form S-3

Registration Statement No. 333-121215 on Form S-3

Registration Statement No. 333-129009 on Form S-3


We are also aware that the aforementioned report, pursuant to Rule 436(c) under the Securities Act of 1933, is not considered a part of the Registration Statement prepared or certified by an accountant or a report prepared or certified by an accountant within the meaning of Sections 7 and 11 of that Act.


Sincerely,


/s/S.R. Snodgrass, A.C.









11





Exhibit 31.1       

CERTIFICATION OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO RULES 13a-14 AND 15d-14 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF

1934 AND SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002


I, Glenn L. Wilson, certify that:


1.  I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of AmeriServ Financial, Inc. (ASF);


2.  Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;


3.  Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of ASF as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;


4.  ASF’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for ASF and have:


(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to ASF, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b)  Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of ASF's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in ASF's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during ASF's most recent fiscal quarter (ASF's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, ASF's internal control over financial reporting; and


5.  ASF's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to ASF's auditors and the audit committee of ASF's board of directors:


(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect ASF's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in ASF's internal control over financial reporting.


Date: November 5, 2010

/s/Glenn L. Wilson

 

Glenn L. Wilson

 

President & CEO





12





Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION OF THE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO RULES 13a-14 AND 15d-14 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF

1934 AND SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002


I, Jeffrey A. Stopko, certify that:


1.  I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of AmeriServ Financial, Inc. (ASF);


2.  Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;


3.  Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of ASF as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;


4.  ASF’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for ASF and have:


(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to ASF, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b)  Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of ASF's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in ASF's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during ASF's most recent fiscal quarter (ASF's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, ASF's internal control over financial reporting; and


5.  ASF's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to ASF's auditors and the audit committee of ASF's board of directors:


(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect ASF's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in ASF's internal control over financial reporting.


Date: November 5, 2010

/s/Jeffrey A. Stopko

 

Jeffrey A. Stopko

 

Executive Vice President & CFO





13





Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002


In connection with the Quarterly Report of AmeriServ Financial, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2010, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Glenn L. Wilson, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss. 1350, as adopted pursuant to ss. 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:


1).

The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and


2).

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.



/s/Glenn L. Wilson

Glenn L. Wilson

President and

Chief Executive Officer

November 5, 2010

Exhibit 32.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002


In connection with the Quarterly Report of AmeriServ Financial, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2010, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Jeffrey A. Stopko, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss. 1350, as adopted pursuant to ss. 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:


1).

The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and


2).

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.



/s/Jeffrey A. Stopko

Jeffrey A. Stopko

Executive Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer

November 5, 2010






14