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FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES INC /DE/ - Annual Report: 2009 (Form 10-K)

Form 10-K
Table of Contents

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009

 

Commission File Number 001-16715

 

 

 

FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in the charter)

 

Delaware   56-1528994      
(State or other jurisdiction   (I.R.S. Employer      
of incorporation or organization)           Identification Number)

 

4300 Six Forks Road

Raleigh, North Carolina 27609

(Address of Principal Executive Offices, Zip Code)

 

(919) 716-7000

(Registrant’s Telephone Number, including Area Code)

 

 

 

   Securities registered pursuant to:   
       Section 12(b) of the Act:    Class A Common Stock, Par Value $1
       Section 12(g) of the Act:    Class B Common Stock, Par Value $1
     

(Title of Class)

 

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes x    No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ¨    No x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding twelve 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 ninety days. Yes x     No ¨

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer x   Accelerated filer ¨   Non-accelerated filer ¨   Smaller reporting company ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨     No x

 

The aggregate market value of the Registrant’s common equity held by nonaffiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold as of the last business day of the Registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter was $676,936,605.

 

On March 1, 2010, there were 8,756,778 outstanding shares of the Registrant’s Class A Common Stock and 1,677,675 outstanding shares of the Registrant’s Class B Common Stock.

 

Portions of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated in Part III of this report.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

CROSS REFERENCE INDEX

 

              Page
PART 1    Item 1   Business    3
   Item 1A   Risk Factors    8
   Item 1B   Unresolved Staff Comments    None
   Item 2   Properties    11
   Item 3   Legal Proceedings    11
PART II    Item 5   Market for Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Security    12
   Item 6   Selected Financial Data    14
   Item 7   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    15
   Item 7A   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk    41
   Item 8   Financial Statements and Supplementary Data   
     Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting    52
     Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control over Financial Reporting    53
     Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm    54
     Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2009 and 2008    55
     Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years in the
three-year period ended December 31, 2009
   56
     Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for
each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009
   57
     Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years in the
three-year period ended December 31, 2009
   58
     Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements    59
     Quarterly Financial Summary for 2009 and 2008    46
   Item 9   Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure    None
   Item 9A   Controls and Procedures    50
   Item 9B   Other Information    None
PART III    Item 10   Directors and Executive Officers and Corporate Governance    *
   Item 11   Executive Compensation    *
   Item 12   Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters    *
   Item 13   Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence    *
   Item 14   Principal Accountant Fees and Services    *
PART IV    Item 15   Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules   
         (1)   Financial Statements (see Item 8 for reference)   
         (2)   All Financial Statement Schedules normally required on Form 10-K are omitted since they are not applicable, except as referred to in Item 8.   
         (3)   The Exhibits listed on the Exhibit Index contained in this Form 10-K are filed with or furnished to the Commission or incorporated by reference into this report and are available upon written request.   

 

*   Information required by Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference to the information that appears under the headings or captions ‘Proposal 1: Election of Directors,’ ‘Code of Ethics,’ ‘Committees of our Board—General,’ and ‘—Audit and Compliance Committee’, ‘Executive Officers’ and ‘Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance’ from the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (2010 Proxy Statement) .

 

     Information required by Item 11 is incorporated herein by reference to the information that appears under the headings or captions ‘Compensation Discussion and Analysis,’ ‘Compensation Committee Report,’ ‘Executive Compensation,’ and ‘Director Compensation,’ of the 2010 Proxy Statement.

 

     Information required by Item 12 is incorporated herein by reference to the information that appears under the heading ‘Beneficial Ownership of Our Common Stock’ of the 2010 Proxy Statement.

 

     Information required by Item 13 is incorporated herein by reference to the information that appears under the headings or captions ‘Corporate Governance—Director Independence’ and ‘Transactions with Related Persons’ of the 2010 Proxy Statement.

 

     Information required by Item 14 is incorporated by reference to the information that appears under the caption ‘Services and Fees During 2008 and 2009 of the 2010 Proxy Statement.

 

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Business

 

General

 

First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (BancShares) was incorporated under the laws of Delaware on August 7, 1986, to become the holding company of First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company (FCB), its banking subsidiary. FCB opened in 1898 as the Bank of Smithfield, Smithfield, North Carolina, and later became First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company. As of December 31, 2009, FCB operated 373 offices in North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee, Washington, California and Washington, DC.

 

On April 28, 1997, BancShares launched IronStone Bank (ISB), a federally-chartered thrift institution that originally operated under the name Atlantic States Bank. Initially, ISB operated in the counties surrounding Atlanta, Georgia, but gradually expanded into other high-growth markets in urban areas throughout the United States. At December 31, 2009, ISB had 58 offices in Georgia, Florida, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri. The financial results and trends of ISB reflect the impact of the de novo nature of its growth. Refer to Note S—Segment Disclosures in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional financial disclosures on FCB and ISB including summary income statements and balance sheet information.

 

During 2009 FCB purchased substantially all the assets and assumed substantially all the liabilities of Temecula Valley Bank (TVB) and Venture Bank (VB) from the FDIC, as Receiver of those two banks, under agreements which included “ loss share” arrangements which protect FCB from losses on covered loans and other real estate owned up to stated limits. TVB operated 11 banking branches in California, primarily within the San Diego, California, area and the Temecula Valley area east of San Diego. Venture operated 18 banking branches in the Seattle/Olympia, Washington, area. Those branches are being operated as banking branches of FCB and represent FCB’s first entry into those banking markets. In connection with its acquisitions of TVB and VB, FCB measured all assets and liabilities at fair value, and recorded loans of $855.6 million and $457.0 million, total assets of $1.11 billion and $795.2 million, deposits of $965.4 million and $709.1 million, and total liabilities of $1.05 billion and $766.5 million, respectively. The two transactions resulted in bargain purchase gains in 2009 of $56.4 million and $48.0 million, respectively. Additional information regarding those two transactions is contained in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Note B to BancShares’ audited consolidated financial statements.

 

BancShares conducts its banking operations through its two separately chartered wholly-owned subsidiaries, FCB and ISB. FCB and ISB offer similar banking products and services to customers through separate branch operations, and each operates in different geographic markets with the exception of the states of California and Washington, where both operate. With a diverse employment base in manufacturing, general services, agricultural, wholesale/retail trade, technology and financial services, BancShares believes its current market areas will support future growth in loans and deposits. BancShares maintains a community bank approach to providing customer service, a competitive advantage that strengthens our ability to effectively provide financial products and services to individuals and businesses in our markets. Although FCB provides products and services targeted to both business and retail customers, ISB has focused primary attention on business customers, providing retail banking services on a limited basis.

 

A substantial portion of BancShares’ revenue is derived from our operations throughout North Carolina, in southern and central Virginia, and in the urban areas of Georgia, Florida, California and Texas in which we operate. The delivery of products and services to our customers is primarily accomplished through associates deployed throughout our extensive branch network. However, FCB and ISB also provide customers with access to our products and services through alternative means, including online banking, telephone banking and through our participation in various ATM networks. Business customers may also conduct banking transactions through use of remote image technology.

 

FCB is BancShares’ largest banking subsidiary with 87.4 percent of BancShares’ consolidated deposits as of December 31, 2009. FCB’s primary deposit markets are North Carolina and Virginia. FCB’s deposit market share in North Carolina was 3.6 percent as of June 30, 2009 based on the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Deposit Market Share Report. Based on this ranking of deposits, FCB was the fourth largest bank in North Carolina. The three banks larger than FCB based on deposits in North Carolina as of June 30, 2009, controlled 75.6 percent of North Carolina deposits. In Virginia, FCB was the 17th largest bank with a June 30, 2009 deposit market share of 0.7 percent. The sixteen larger banks represent 81.9 percent of total deposits in Virginia as of June 30, 2009. At December 31, 2009, FCB had 280 branches in North Carolina, 51 branches in Virginia, 18 branches in Washington, 11 branches in California, 5 branches in West Virginia, 6 branches in Tennessee, 1 branch in Maryland, and 1 branch in Washington, D.C.

 

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ISB’s deposits represent 12.8 percent of BancShares’ consolidated deposits as of December 31, 2009. Due to ISB’s focus on urban areas with many financial service providers, ISB’s market share in each of the states in which it operates is less than one percent. At December 31, 2009, ISB had 15 branches in Georgia, 13 branches in Florida, 9 branches in California, 7 branches in Texas, 3 branches in Colorado, 2 branches in each of Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon and Oklahoma, and 1 branch in Kansas, Missouri and Washington.

 

FCB and ISB seek to meet the needs of both consumers and commercial entities in their respective market areas. Their services, offered at most offices, include taking of deposits, cashing of checks, and providing for individual and commercial cash needs; numerous checking and savings plans; commercial, business and consumer lending; a full-service trust department; and other activities incidental to commercial banking. First Citizens Investor Services, Inc. (FCIS) provides various investment products, including annuities, discount brokerage services and third-party mutual funds to customers. Other subsidiaries are not material to BancShares’ consolidated financial position or to consolidated net income.

 

The financial services industry is highly competitive and the ability of non-bank financial entities to provide services previously reserved for commercial banks has intensified competition. Traditional commercial banks are subject to significant competitive pressure from multiple types of financial institutions creating the requirement to not focus their competitive efforts solely on other commercial banks. This competitive pressure is perhaps most acute in the wealth management and payments arenas. Non-banks and other diversified financial conglomerates have developed powerful and focused franchises, which have eroded traditional commercial banks’ market share of both balance sheet and fee-based products. As the banking industry continues to consolidate, the degree of competition that exists in the banking market will be affected by the elimination of some regional and local institutions. Continued asset quality challenges, capital shortages, fallout of a global economic recession and the likely resulting bank failures will also have a profound impact on the competitive environment.

 

At December 31, 2009, BancShares and its subsidiaries employed a full-time staff of 4,221 and a part-time staff of 785 for a total of 5,006 employees.

 

Throughout its history, the operations of BancShares have been significantly influenced by descendants of Robert P. Holding, who came to control FCB during the 1920s. Robert P. Holding’s children and grandchildren have served as members of the board of directors, as chief executive officers and other executive management positions, and have remained shareholders controlling a large percentage of our common stock since BancShares was formed in 1986.

 

Our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Frank B. Holding, Jr., is the grandson of Robert P. Holding. Hope H. Connell, the President of ISB and Executive Vice President of FCB, is Robert P. Holding’s granddaughter. Frank B. Holding, son of Robert P. Holding and father of Frank B. Holding, Jr. and Hope H. Connell, is our Executive Vice Chairman. Carmen Holding Ames, another granddaughter of Robert P. Holding, is a member of our board of directors.

 

Lewis R. Holding preceded Frank B. Holding, Jr. as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer and served in both capacities from the time BancShares was formed until 2008, when he retired as Chief Executive Officer, and 2009, when he retired as Chairman of the Board. Lewis R. Holding, who died in August 2009, was the son of Robert P. Holding, brother of Frank B. Holding, and father of Carmen Holding Ames.

 

Members of the Holding family, including those who serve as members of our board of directors and in various management positions, and including certain of their related parties, own, in the aggregate, approximately 38 percent of the outstanding shares of our Class A common stock and approximately 49 percent of the outstanding shares of our Class B common stock, together representing approximately 47 percent of the voting control of BancShares. Additionally, a trust for the benefit of a family member holds additional shares over which the family member does not have voting or investment control. Those shares amount to approximately three percent and 30 percent, respectively, of the outstanding shares of our Class A and Class B common stock and together represent approximately 23 percent of the voting control of BancShares.

 

Statistical information regarding our business activities is found in Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

 

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Regulatory Considerations

 

The business and operations of BancShares and its subsidiary banks are subject to significant federal and state governmental regulation and supervision. BancShares is a financial holding company registered with the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended. It is subject to supervision and examination by, and the regulations and reporting requirements of, the FRB.

 

FCB is a state-chartered bank, subject to supervision and examination by, and the regulations and reporting requirements of, the FDIC and the North Carolina Commissioner of Banks. ISB is a federally-chartered thrift institution supervised by the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS). Deposit obligations of FCB and ISB are insured by the FDIC to the maximum legal limits.

 

The various regulatory authorities supervise all areas of the banking subsidiaries, including reserves, loans, mergers, the payment of dividends, various compliance matters and other aspects of their operations. The regulators conduct regular examinations, and the banking subsidiaries must furnish periodic reports to their regulators containing detailed financial and other information regarding their affairs.

 

Numerous statutes and regulations apply to and restrict the activities of the banking subsidiaries, including limitations on the ability to pay dividends, capital requirements, reserve requirements, deposit insurance requirements and restrictions on transactions with related parties. The impact of these statutes and regulations is discussed below and in the accompanying audited consolidated financial statements.

 

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLB Act) adopted by Congress during 1999 expanded opportunities for banks and bank holding companies to provide services and engage in other revenue-generating activities that previously were prohibited to them. The GLB Act permitted bank holding companies to become “financial holding companies” and expanded activities in which banks and bank holding companies may participate, including opportunities to affiliate with securities firms and insurance companies. During 2000, BancShares became a financial holding company.

 

Under Delaware law, BancShares is authorized to pay dividends declared by its Board of Directors, provided that no distribution results in its insolvency. The ability of the banking subsidiaries to pay dividends to BancShares is governed by statutes of each entity’s chartering jurisdiction and rules and regulations issued by each entity’s respective regulatory authority. Under federal law, and as insured banks, each of the banking subsidiaries is prohibited from making any capital distributions, including paying a cash dividend, if it is, or after making the distribution it would become, “undercapitalized” as that term is defined in the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA).

 

BancShares is required to comply with the capital adequacy standards established by the FRB, and FCB and ISB are required to comply with the capital adequacy standards established by the FDIC and OTS, respectively. The FRB, FDIC and OTS have promulgated risk-based capital and leverage capital guidelines for determining the adequacy of the capital of a bank holding company or a bank, and all applicable capital standards must be satisfied for a bank holding company or a bank to be considered in compliance with these capital requirements.

 

Current federal law establishes a system of prompt corrective action to resolve the problems of undercapitalized banks. Under this system, the FDIC has established five capital categories (“well capitalized,” “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized,” and “critically undercapitalized”). The FDIC is required to take certain mandatory supervisory actions, and is authorized to take other discretionary actions, with respect to banks in the three undercapitalized categories.

 

Under the FDIC’s rules implementing the prompt corrective action provisions, an insured, state-chartered bank that has a Total Capital Ratio of 10.0 percent or greater, a Tier 1 Capital Ratio of 6.0 percent or greater, a Leverage Ratio of 5.0 percent or greater, and is not subject to any written agreement, order, capital directive, or prompt corrective action directive issued by the FDIC, is considered to be “well-capitalized.” Each of BancShares’ banking subsidiaries is well-capitalized.

 

Under regulations of the FRB, all FDIC-insured banks must maintain average daily reserves against their transaction accounts. Because required reserves must be maintained in the form of vault cash or in an account at a Federal Reserve Bank or with a qualified correspondent bank, the effect of the reserve requirement is to reduce the amount of the Banks’ assets that are available for lending or other investment activities.

 

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Under the Federal Deposit Insurance Reform Act of 2005 (FDIRA), the FDIC uses a risk-based assessment system to determine the amount of a bank’s deposit insurance assessment based on an evaluation of the probability that the deposit insurance fund (DIF) will incur a loss with respect to that bank. The evaluation considers risks attributable to different categories and concentrations of the bank’s assets and liabilities and other factors the FDIC considers to be relevant, including information obtained from the bank’s federal and state banking regulators.

 

The FDIC is responsible for maintaining the adequacy of the DIF, and the amount paid by a bank for deposit insurance is influenced not only by the assessment of the risk it poses to the DIF, but also by the adequacy of the insurance fund to cover the risk posed by all insured institutions. FDIC insurance assessments could be increased substantially in the future if the FDIC finds such an increase to be necessary in order to adequately maintain the DIF. A rate increase and special assessment was imposed on insured financial institutions in 2009 due to the high level of bank failures. Under the provisions of the FDIRA, the FDIC may terminate a bank’s deposit insurance if it finds that the bank has engaged in unsafe and unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations, or has violated applicable laws, regulations, rules, or orders.

 

Each of the banking subsidiaries is subject to the provisions of Section 23A of the Federal Reserve Act which places limits on the amount of certain transactions with affiliate entities. The total amount of transactions by any of the banking subsidiaries with a single affiliate is limited to 10 percent of the banking subsidiary’s capital and surplus and, for all affiliates, to 20 percent of the banking subsidiary’s capital and surplus. Each of the transactions among affiliates must also meet specified collateral requirements and must comply with other provisions of Section 23A designed to avoid transfers of low-quality assets between affiliates. The banking subsidiaries are also subject to the provisions of Section 23B of the Federal Reserve Act which, among other things, prohibits the above transactions with affiliates unless the transactions are on terms substantially the same, or at least as favorable to the banking subsidiary or its subsidiaries, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with nonaffiliated companies.

 

The USA Patriot Act of 2001 (Patriot Act) is intended to strengthen the ability of United States law enforcement and the intelligence community to work cohesively to combat terrorism on a variety of fronts. The Patriot Act contains sweeping anti-money laundering and financial transparency laws which required various new regulations, including standards for verifying customer identification at account opening, and rules to promote cooperation among financial institutions, regulators, and law enforcement entities in identifying parties that may be involved in terrorism or money laundering. The Patriot Act has required financial institutions to adopt new policies and procedures to combat money laundering, and it grants the Secretary of the Treasury broad authority to establish regulations and impose requirements and restrictions on financial institutions’ operations.

 

Under the Community Reinvestment Act, as implemented by regulations of the federal bank regulatory agencies, an insured bank has a continuing and affirmative obligation, consistent with its safe and sound operation, to help meet the credit needs of its entire community, including low and moderate income neighborhoods.

 

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX Act) mandated important new corporate governance, financial reporting and disclosure requirements intended to enhance the accuracy and transparency of public companies’ reported financial results. It established new responsibilities for corporate chief executive officers, chief financial officers and audit committees in the financial reporting process, and it created a new regulatory body to oversee auditors of public companies. The SOX Act also mandated new enforcement tools, increased criminal penalties for federal mail, wire and securities fraud, and created new criminal penalties for document and record destruction in connection with federal investigations. Additionally, the SOX Act increased the opportunity for private litigation by lengthening the statute of limitations for securities fraud claims and providing new federal corporate whistleblower protection.

 

The SOX Act requires various securities exchanges, including The NASDAQ Global Select Market, to prohibit the listing of the stock of an issuer unless that issuer maintains an independent audit committee. In addition, the securities exchanges have imposed various corporate governance requirements, including the requirement that various corporate matters (including executive compensation and board nominations) be approved, or recommended for approval by the issuer’s full board of directors, by directors of the issuer who are “independent” as defined by the exchanges’ rules or by committees made up of “independent” directors. Since BancShares’ Class A common stock is a listed stock, BancShares is subject to those provisions of the Act and to corporate governance requirements of The NASDAQ Global Select Market. The economic and operational effects of the SOX Act on public companies, including BancShares, have been and will continue to be significant in terms of the time, resources and costs required to achieve compliance.

 

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During 2008, in response to widespread concern about weakness within the banking industry, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act was enacted, providing expanded insurance protection to depositors. In addition, the U.S. Treasury created the TARP Capital Purchase Program to provide qualifying banks with additional capital. The FDIC created the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP), which allowed banks to purchase a guarantee for newly-issued senior unsecured debt and provided expanded deposit insurance benefits to certain noninterest-bearing accounts. Due to our strong capital ratios, we did not apply for additional capital under the TARP Capital Purchase Program. We also did not participate in the TLGP debt guarantee program, but did elect to participate in the TLGP expansion of deposit insurance. We elected in 2009 to continue participation in the expanded deposit insurance program until expiration on June 30, 2010.

 

FCIS is a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser. Broker-dealer activities are subject to regulation by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), a self-regulatory organization to which the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has delegated regulatory authority for broker-dealers, as well as by the state securities authorities of the various states in which FCIS operates. Investment advisory activities are subject to direct regulation by the SEC, and investment advisory representatives must register with the state securities authorities of the various states in which they operate.

 

FCIS is also licensed as an insurance agency in connection with various investment products, such as annuities, that are regulated as insurance products. FCIS’ insurance sales activities are subject to concurrent regulation by securities regulators and by the insurance regulators of the various states in which FCIS conducts business.

 

Available Information

 

BancShares does not have its own separate Internet website. However, FCB’s website (www.firstcitizens.com) includes a hyperlink to the SEC’s website where the public may obtain copies of BancShares’ annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. Interested parties may also directly access the SEC’s website that contains reports and other information that BancShares files electronically with the SEC. The address of the SEC’s website is www.sec.gov.

 

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Risk Factors

 

Unfavorable changes in economic conditions

 

BancShares’ business is highly affected by national, regional and local economic conditions. These conditions cannot be predicted or controlled, and may have a material impact on our operations and financial condition. Unfavorable economic developments such as an increase in unemployment rates, decreases in real estate values, rapid changes in interest rates, higher default and bankruptcy rates, and various other factors could weaken the national economy as well as the economies of specific communities that we serve. Weakness in our market areas, continuation or deepening of the current recession or a prolonged recovery could depress our earnings and financial condition because borrowers may not be able to repay their loans, collateral values may fall, and loans that are currently performing and other long-lived assets may become impaired.

 

Mergers and acquisitions

 

We must receive federal and state regulatory approvals before we can acquire a bank or bank holding company or acquire assets and assume liabilities of failed banks from the FDIC. Prior to granting approval, bank regulators consider, among other factors, the effect of the acquisition on competition, financial condition and future prospects including current and projected capital ratios, the competence, experience and integrity of management, our record of compliance with laws and regulations and the convenience and needs of the communities to be served, including our record of compliance under the Community Reinvestment Act. We cannot be certain when or if any required regulatory approvals will be granted or what conditions may be imposed by the approving authority.

 

In addition to the risks related to regulatory approvals, complications in the conversion of operating systems, data systems and products may result in the loss of customers, damage to our reputation, operational problems, one-time costs currently not anticipated or reduced cost savings resulting from a merger or acquisition. The integration could result in higher than expected deposit attrition, loss of key employees, disruption of our businesses or the businesses of the acquired company or otherwise adversely affect our ability to maintain relationships with customers and employees or achieve the anticipated benefits of the acquisition.

 

With respect to the 2009 acquisitions, the exposures to prospective losses on certain assets are covered under loss share agreements with the FDIC. These loss share agreements impose certain obligations on us that, in the event of noncompliance, could result in the disallowance of our rights under those agreements.

 

Instability in real estate markets

 

Disruption in residential housing markets including reduced sales activity and falling market prices have adversely affected collateral values and customer demand, particularly with respect to our operations in Atlanta, Georgia and southwest Florida. With 73.5 percent of total loans secured by real estate, instability in residential and commercial real estate markets could result in higher credit losses in the future if customers default on loans that, as a result of lower property values, are no longer adequately collateralized. The weak real estate markets could also affect our ability to sell real estate acquired through foreclosure.

 

Liquidity

 

Liquidity is essential to our businesses. Our deposit base represents our primary source of liquidity, and we normally have the ability to stimulate deposit growth through our pricing strategies. However, in circumstances where our ability to generate needed liquidity is impaired, we would need access to alternative liquidity sources such as overnight and other short-term borrowings. While we maintain access to alternative funding sources, we are dependent on the availability of collateral, the counterparty’s willingness to lend to us, and their liquidity capacity.

 

Gain on acquisitions

 

The gain recorded during 2009 is preliminary and subject to revision for a period of one year following the respective acquisition dates. Adjustments to this gain may be recorded based on additional information received after the acquisition date that affected the acquisition date fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Further downward adjustments in values of assets acquired or increases in values of liabilities assumed on the date of acquisition would lower this gain on acquisitions.

 

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Deposit insurance premiums

 

During 2009, due to a higher level of bank failures, the FDIC increased recurring deposit insurance premiums and imposed a special assessment on insured financial institutions. In addition, the FDIC received approval to require prepayment of the next three years premiums by December 31, 2009. BancShares remitted $69.6 million to prepay its premiums for 2010, 2011 and 2012. Due to the continuing volume of bank failures, it is possible that higher deposit insurance rates or additional special assessments will be required to restore the DIF to the Congressionally established target.

 

Access to capital

 

Based on existing capital levels, BancShares and its subsidiary banks maintain well-capitalized ratios under current leverage and risk-based capital standards including the impact of the acquisitions in 2009 of TVB and VB. Historically, our primary capital sources have been retained earnings and debt issued through both private and public markets including junior subordinated debentures and subordinated debt. The market for junior subordinated debentures has been severely limited during the current economic environment, and our ability to raise capital by issuing new junior subordinated debentures at reasonable rates is highly questionable. A lack of access to capital could limit our ability to consummate additional acquisitions, make new loans, meet our existing lending commitments, and could potentially affect our liquidity and capital adequacy.

 

The major rating agencies regularly evaluate our creditworthiness and assign credit ratings to the debt of BancShares and one of our bank subsidiaries. The agencies’ ratings are based on a number of factors, some of which are not within our control. In addition to factors specific to our financial strength and performance, the rating agencies also consider conditions generally affecting the financial services industry. In light of the difficulties currently confronting the financial services industry, there can be no assurance that we will maintain our current credit ratings. Rating reductions could adversely affect our access to funding sources and the cost of obtaining funding. Long-term debt ratings also factor into the calculation of deposit insurance premiums, and a reduction in our subsidiary bank’s ratings would increase premiums and expense.

 

Condition of other financial institutions

 

Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. We have exposure to numerous financial service providers, including banks, brokers and dealers in securities and other institutional clients. Transactions with other financial institutions expose us to credit risk in the event of default of the counterparty. These types of losses could materially and adversely affect our results of operations or earnings.

 

Changes in interest rates

 

Our earnings and financial condition are highly dependent upon net interest income. Compression of interest rate spreads adversely affects our earnings and financial condition. We cannot predict with certainty changes in interest rates or actions by the Federal Reserve that may have a direct impact on market interest rates. While we maintain policies and procedures designed to mitigate the risks associated with changes in interest rates, those changes may nonetheless have significant adverse effects on our profitability.

 

Changes in banking laws

 

Financial institutions are regulated under federal and state banking laws and regulations that primarily focus on the protection of depositors, federal deposit insurance funds and the banking system as a whole. Federal and state banking regulators possess broad powers to take supervisory actions as they deem appropriate. These supervisory actions may result in higher capital requirements, higher insurance premiums and limitations on activities that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

In addition, financial institutions are significantly affected by changes in economic and monetary policies. Various Congressional and regulatory proposals, if adopted, will likely result in increased compliance requirements, some of which may affect our results of operations.

 

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Competition

 

There is intense competition among commercial banks in our market areas. In addition, we compete with other providers of financial services, such as credit unions, consumer finance companies, commercial finance and leasing companies and brokerage firms as well as other institutions that deliver their products and services through alternative delivery networks. Some of our larger competitors, including various banks that have a significant presence in our market areas, have the capacity to offer products and services we do not offer.

 

Catastrophic events

 

The occurrence of catastrophic events including weather-related events such as hurricanes, tropical storms, floods, windstorms or severe winter weather, as well as earthquakes, pandemic disease, fires and other catastrophes could adversely affect our consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

 

In addition to natural catastrophic events, man-made events, such as acts of terror and governmental response to acts of terror, could adversely affect general economic conditions, which could have a material impact on our results of operations.

 

Unpredictable natural and other disasters could have an adverse effect if those events materially disrupt our operations or affect customers’ access to the financial services we offer. Although we carry insurance to mitigate our exposure to certain catastrophic events, catastrophic events could nevertheless affect our results of operations.

 

Operational and data security risk

 

We are exposed to many types of operational risks, including reputational risk, legal and compliance risk, the risk of illegal activities conducted by employees or outsiders, data security risk and operational errors. Our dependence on automated systems, including the automated systems used by acquired entities and third parties, to record and process transactions may further increase the risk that technical failures or tampering of those systems will result in losses that are difficult to detect. We are also subject to disruptions of our operating systems arising from events that are wholly or partially beyond our control.

 

Reliance on vendors

 

Third party vendors provide key components of our business infrastructure. Failures of these third parties to provide services for any reason could adversely affect our ability to deliver products and services to our customers. Replacing critical third party vendors could also result in interruption of service and significant expense.

 

Litigation

 

The frequency of claims and amount of damages and penalties claimed in litigation and regulatory proceedings against financial institutions remain high. Substantial legal liability or significant regulatory action against us may have material adverse financial effects or cause significant reputational harm.

 

Interpretation of tax laws and regulations

 

Our interpretation of federal, state or local tax laws and regulations that allows for our estimation of tax liabilities may differ from tax authorities. Those differing interpretations may result in the disallowance of deductions or credits, differences in the timing of deductions or other differences that could result in the payment of additional taxes, interest or penalties that could materially affect our results of operations.

 

Changes in accounting standards

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board periodically modifies the standards that govern the preparation of our financial statements. These changes are not predictable and can materially impact how we record and report our financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, we could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively, resulting in changes to previously reported financial results or a cumulative adjustment to retained earnings.

 

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Volatility in stock price and impairment of goodwill

 

Market prices of our common stock price can fluctuate widely in response to a variety of factors including expectations of operating results, actual operating results, market perception of business combinations, stock prices of other companies that are similar to BancShares, general market expectations related to the financial services industry and the potential impact of government actions affecting the financial services industry.

 

General market fluctuations, industry factors and general economic and political conditions and events, such as economic slowdowns or recessions, interest rate changes or credit loss trends, could also cause our stock price to decrease regardless of our operating results.

 

Goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually, and the impairment test compares the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its net book value. A write-off of impaired goodwill could have a significant impact on our results of operations, but would not impact our capital ratios as such ratios are calculated using tangible capital amounts.

 

Properties

 

As of December 31, 2009, BancShares’ subsidiary financial institutions operated branch offices at 431 locations in North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, Texas, Arizona, California, New Mexico, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri and Washington, DC. BancShares owns many of the buildings and leases other facilities from third parties.

 

Additional information relating to premises, equipment and lease commitments is set forth in Note F of BancShares’ Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

BancShares and various subsidiaries have been named as defendants in various legal actions arising from our normal business activities in which damages in various amounts are claimed. Although the amount of any ultimate liability with respect to such legal actions cannot be determined, in the opinion of management, any such liability will not have a material effect on BancShares’ consolidated financial statements.

 

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Market for Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Security

 

BancShares has two classes of common stock—Class A common and Class B common. Shares of Class A common have one vote per share, while shares of Class B common have 16 votes per share. BancShares’ Class A common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol FCNCA. The Class B common stock is traded in the over-the-counter market and quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol FCNCB. As of December 31, 2009, there were 1,946 holders of record of the Class A common stock and 349 holders of record of the Class B common stock. The market for Class B common stock is extremely limited in that on most days there is no trading and, to the extent there is trading, it is generally low in volume. The average monthly trading volume for the Class A common stock was 250,633 for the fourth quarter of 2009 and 416,000 for the year ended December 31, 2009. The Class B common stock monthly trading volume averaged 3,666 in the fourth quarter of 2009 and 2,108 for the year ended December 31, 2009.

 

The per share cash dividends declared by BancShares on both the Class A and Class B common stock and the high and low sales prices for each quarterly period during 2009 and 2008 are set forth in the following table.

 

     2009    2008
   Fourth
Quarter
   Third
Quarter
   Second
Quarter
   First
Quarter
   Fourth
Quarter
   Third
Quarter
   Second
Quarter
   First
Quarter

Cash Dividends

   $ 0.300    $ 0.300    $ 0.300    $ 0.300    $ 0.275    $ 0.275    $  0.275    $  0.275

Class A sales price

                       

High

     167.70      164.00      145.16      154.16      179.09      198.44      164.63      153.48

Low

     148.20      125.67      115.58      73.48      124.09      125.79      131.00      117.75

Class B sales price

                       

High

     200.00      156.00      139.00      152.00      174.00      177.00      192.00      204.75

Low

     155.00      138.00      110.00      91.00      146.00      172.00      166.00      181.00

 

Sales prices for Class A common were obtained from the NASDAQ Global Select Market. Sales prices for Class B common were obtained from the OTC Bulletin Board.

 

A cash dividend of 30.0 cents per share was declared by the Board of Directors on January 25, 2010, payable April 5, 2010, to holders of record as of March 15, 2010. Payment of dividends is made at the discretion of the Board of Directors and is contingent upon satisfactory earnings as well as projected future capital needs. BancShares’ principal source of liquidity for payment of shareholder dividends is the dividend it receives from FCB. FCB is subject to various requirements under federal and state banking laws that restrict the payment of dividends and its ability to lend to BancShares. Subject to the foregoing, it is currently management’s expectation that comparable cash dividends will continue to be paid in the future.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2009, BancShares did not issue, sell or repurchase any Class A or Class B common stock.

 

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The following graph compares the cumulative total shareholder return (CTSR) of our Class A common stock during the previous five years with the CTSR over the same measurement period of the Nasdaq-Banks Index and the Nasdaq-U.S. Index. Each trend line assumes that $100 was invested on December 31, 2004, and that dividends were reinvested for additional shares.

 

LOGO

 

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Selected Financial Data

 

 

Table 1

FINANCIAL SUMMARY AND SELECTED AVERAGE BALANCES AND RATIOS

 

    2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
    (thousands, except share data and ratios)  

SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS

         

Interest income

  $ 738,159      $ 813,351      $ 902,181      $ 828,508      $ 668,320   

Interest expense

    227,644        314,945        423,714        353,737        218,151   
                                       

Net interest income

    510,515        498,406        478,467        474,771        450,169   

Provision for loan and lease losses

    79,364        65,926        32,939        21,203        33,562   
                                       

Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses

    431,151        432,480        445,528        453,568        416,607   

Gain on acquisitions

    104,434        —          —          —          —     

Other noninterest income

    305,166        313,484        297,345        273,174        258,886   

Noninterest expense

    657,652        606,360        575,319        530,796        496,823   
                                       

Income before income taxes

    183,099        139,604        167,554        195,946        178,670   

Income taxes

    66,768        48,546        58,937        69,455        65,808   
                                       

Net income

  $ 116,331      $ 91,058      $ 108,617      $ 126,491      $ 112,862   
                                       

Net interest income, taxable equivalent

  $ 515,446      $ 505,151      $ 486,144      $ 481,120      $ 454,467   
                                       

PER SHARE DATA

         

Net income

  $ 11.15      $ 8.73      $ 10.41      $ 12.12      $ 10.82   

Cash dividends

    1.20        1.10        1.10        1.10        1.10   

Market price at December 31 (Class A)

    164.01        152.80        145.85        202.64        174.42   

Book value at December 31

    149.42        138.33        138.12        125.62        113.19   

Tangible book value at December 31

    138.98        128.13        127.72        115.02        102.35   
                                       

SELECTED AVERAGE BALANCES

         

Total assets

  $ 17,557,484      $ 16,403,717      $ 15,919,222      $ 15,240,327      $ 13,905,260   

Investment securities

    3,412,620        3,112,717        3,112,172        2,996,427        2,533,161   

Loans and leases

    12,062,954        11,306,900        10,513,599        9,989,757        9,375,249   

Interest-earning assets

    15,846,514        14,870,501        14,260,442        13,605,431        12,503,877   

Deposits

    14,578,868        13,108,246        12,659,236        12,452,955        11,714,569   

Interest-bearing liabilities

    13,013,237        12,312,499        11,883,421        11,262,423        10,113,999   

Long-term obligations

    753,242        607,463        405,758        450,272        353,885   

Shareholders’ equity

  $ 1,465,953      $ 1,484,605      $ 1,370,617      $ 1,241,254      $ 1,131,066   

Shares outstanding

    10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453   
                                       

SELECTED PERIOD-END BALANCES

         

Total assets

  $ 18,466,063      $ 16,745,662      $ 16,212,107      $ 15,729,697      $ 14,639,392   

Investment securities

    2,932,765        3,225,194        3,236,835        3,221,048        2,929,516   

Loans and leases:

         

Covered under loss share agreements

    1,173,020        —          —          —          —     

Not covered under loss share agreements

    11,644,999        11,649,886        10,888,083        10,060,234        9,446,987   

Interest-earning assets

    16,541,425        15,119,095        14,466,948        13,842,688        13,066,758   

Deposits

    15,337,567        13,713,763        12,928,544        12,743,324        12,173,858   

Interest-bearing liabilities

    13,561,924        12,441,025        12,118,967        11,612,372        10,745,696   

Long-term obligations

    797,366        733,132        404,392        401,198        408,987   

Shareholders’ equity

  $ 1,559,115      $ 1,443,375      $ 1,441,208      $ 1,310,819      $ 1,181,059   

Shares outstanding

    10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453   
                                       

SELECTED RATIOS AND OTHER DATA

         

Rate of return on average assets

    0.66     0.56     0.68     0.83     0.81

Rate of return on average shareholders’ equity

    7.94        6.13        7.92        10.19        9.98   

Net yield on interest-earning assets (taxable equivalent)

    3.25        3.40        3.41        3.54        3.64   

Allowance for loan and lease losses to noncovered loans and leases at year-end

    1.45        1.35        1.25        1.28        1.33   

Nonperforming assets to total loans and leases and other real estate at year-end:

         

Covered under loss share agreements

    17.39        —          —          —          —     

Not covered under loss share agreements

    1.32        0.61        0.18        0.20        0.27   

Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio

    13.34        13.20        13.02        12.93        12.56   

Total risk-based capital ratio

    15.59        15.49        15.36        15.37        15.11   

Leverage capital ratio

    9.54        9.88        9.63        9.39        9.17   

Dividend payout ratio

    10.76        12.60        10.57        9.08        10.17   

Average loans and leases to average deposits

    82.74        86.26        83.05        80.22        80.03   

 

Average loans and leases include nonaccrual loans.

 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

This discussion and related financial data should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and related footnotes of First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (BancShares), presented on pages 54 through 96 of this report. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

 

RECLASSIFICATIONS

 

Although certain amounts for prior years have been reclassified to conform to statement presentations for 2009, the reclassifications have no effect on shareholders’ equity or net income as previously reported.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Information included in our audited financial statements and management’s discussion and analysis is derived from our accounting records, which are maintained in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (US GAAP) and general practices within the banking industry. While much of the information is definitive, certain accounting issues are highly dependent upon estimates and assumptions made by management. An understanding of these estimates and assumptions is vital to understanding BancShares’ financial statements. Critical accounting policies are those policies that are most important to the determination of our financial condition and results of operations or that require management to make assumptions and estimates that are subjective or complex.

 

We periodically evaluate our critical accounting policies, including those related to the allowance for loan and lease losses, fair value estimates, the FDIC receivable for loss share agreements, pension plan assumptions and income taxes. While we base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or outcomes.

 

Allowance for loan and lease losses.    The allowance for loan and lease losses reflects the estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required loan and lease payments. The allowance reflects management’s evaluation of the risk characteristics of the loan and lease portfolio under current economic conditions and considers such factors as the financial condition of the borrower, fair market value of collateral and other items that, in our opinion, deserve current recognition in estimating possible loan and lease losses. Our evaluation process is based on historical evidence and current trends among delinquencies, defaults and nonperforming assets.

 

Loans covered under loss share agreements are recorded at fair value at acquisition date. Therefore, amounts deemed uncollectible at acquisition date become a part of the fair value calculation and are excluded from the allowance for loan and lease losses. Subsequent decreases in the amount expected to be collected result in a provision for loan and lease losses with a corresponding increase in the allowance for loan and lease losses. Subsequent increases in the amount expected to be collected result in a reversal of any previously recorded provision for loan and lease losses and related allowance for loan and lease losses, or prospective adjustment to the accretable yield if no provision for loan and lease losses had been recorded. Proportional adjustments are also recorded to the FDIC receivable under the loss share agreements.

 

Management considers the established allowance adequate to absorb losses that relate to loans and leases outstanding at December 31, 2009, although future additions may be necessary based on changes in economic conditions and other factors. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the allowance for loan and lease losses. These agencies may require the recognition of additions to the allowance based on their judgments of information available to them at the time of their examination. If the financial condition of our borrowers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, our estimates would be updated and additions to the allowance may be required.

 

Fair value estimates.    BancShares reports investment securities available for sale and interest rate swaps accounted for as cash flow hedges at fair value. At December 31, 2009, the percentage of total assets and total liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis was 15.86 percent and less than 1 percent, respectively. The majority of assets and liabilities reported at fair value are based on quoted market prices or market prices for similar instruments. At December 31, 2009, less than 1 percent of assets measured at fair value were based on significant unobservable inputs. Other financial assets

 

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are reported at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, including loans held for sale and impaired loans. See Note J “Estimated Fair Values” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional disclosures regarding the fair value of financial instruments.

 

Following a business combination, US GAAP requires that assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recognized at fair value at acquisition date. The determination of fair values requires the use of certain valuation methods and assumptions, which are subject to management judgment and may differ significantly depending upon assumptions used. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed from TVB and VB were recognized at their fair values using valuation methods and assumptions established by BancShares’ management. Use of different assumptions and methods could yield significantly different fair values. Fair value estimates for loans and leases and other real estate were based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience which included the use of loan credit grades, collateral valuations and current economic conditions.

 

FDIC receivable for loss share agreements.    The FDIC receivable for loss share agreements is measured separately from the related covered assets as it is not contractually embedded in the assets and is not transferable should the assets be sold. Fair value was estimated using projected cash flows related to the loss share agreements based on the expected reimbursements for losses and the applicable loss share percentages, and will be reviewed and updated prospectively as loss estimates related to Covered Loans and other real estate owned change. Subsequent decreases in the amount expected to be collected result in a provision for loan and lease losses, an increase in the allowance for loan and lease losses, and a proportional adjustment to the FDIC receivable for the estimated amount to be reimbursed. Subsequent increases in the amount expected to be collected result in the reversal of any previously-recorded provision for loan and lease losses and related allowance for loan and lease losses and adjustments to the FDIC receivable, or prospective adjustment to the accretable yield if no provision for loan and lease losses had been recorded. Projected cash flows were discounted to reflect the estimated timing of the receipt from the FDIC.

 

Pension plan assumptions.    BancShares offers a defined benefit pension plan to qualifying employees. The calculation of the benefit obligation, the future value of plan assets, funded status and related pension expense under the pension plan requires the use of actuarial valuation methods and assumptions. The valuations and assumptions used to determine the future value of plan assets and liabilities are subject to management judgment and may differ significantly depending upon assumptions used. The discount rate used to estimate the present value of the benefits to be paid under the pension plan reflects the interest rate that could be obtained for a suitable investment used to fund the benefit obligations. The assumed discount rate equaled 6.00 percent at December 31, 2009, unchanged from 6.00 percent at December 31, 2008. Assuming other variables remain unchanged, a reduction in the assumed discount rate would increase the calculated benefit obligations, which would result in higher pension expense. Conversely, an increase in the assumed discount rate would cause a reduction in obligations, thereby resulting in lower pension expense.

 

We also estimate a long-term rate of return on pension plan assets that is used to calculate the value of plan assets over time. We consider such factors as the actual return earned on plan assets, historical returns on the various asset classes in the plan and projections of future returns on various asset classes. The assumed long-term rate of return on pension assets was adjusted downward to 8.00 percent to calculate the funded status of the pension plan as of December 31, 2009 compared to 8.50 percent at December 31, 2008. The calculation of pension expense during 2009 and 2008 was based on an assumed expected long-term return on plan assets of 8.00 percent and 8.50 percent, respectively. Assuming other variables remain unchanged, a reduction in the long-term rate of return on plan assets increases pension expense.

 

The assumed rate of future compensation increases is reviewed annually based on actual experience and future salary expectations. We used an assumed rate of compensation increase of 4.50 percent to calculate the funded status of the pension plan as of December 31, 2009 compared to 4.25 percent at December 31, 2008. The compensation increase assumption used to calculate pension expense was 4.50 percent during 2009 and 4.25 percent in 2008. Assuming other variables remain unchanged, an increase in the rate of future compensation increases results in higher pension expense.

 

Income taxes.    Management estimates income tax expense using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the amount of assets and liabilities reported in the consolidated financial statements and their respective tax bases. In

 

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estimating the liabilities and corresponding expense related to income taxes, management assesses the relative merits and risks of various tax positions considering statutory, judicial and regulatory guidance. Because of the complexity of tax laws and regulations, interpretation is difficult and subject to differing judgments.

 

Changes in the estimate of income tax liabilities occur periodically due to changes in actual or estimated future tax rates and projections of taxable income, interpretations of tax laws, the complexities of multi-state income tax reporting, the status of examinations being conducted by various taxing authorities and the impact of newly enacted legislation or guidance as well as income tax accounting pronouncements.

 

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW AND PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

 

Due to unprecedented asset quality challenges, capital shortages and the onset of a global economic recession, the U.S. banking industry experienced serious financial challenges in 2008 and 2009. During this time of industry-wide turmoil, while maintaining its long-standing attention to prudent banking practices, BancShares modified its growth focus to benefit from the opportunities that currently exist.

 

BancShares’ vision and mission statements are structured to leverage identified corporate and organizational strengths as well as historical and predicted market opportunities that are perceived to exist in the financial institutions marketplace. The most notable corporate strengths and market opportunities are:

 

Corporate Strengths

 

   

Breadth of the multi-state delivery network serving both major metropolitan markets and rural communities

 

   

Strategic focus on narrow business customer segments that utilize mainstream banking services

 

   

Balance sheet liquidity

 

   

Conservative credit philosophies

 

   

Focus on the long-term impact of strategic, financial and operational decisions, enhanced by the closely held nature of a majority of common equity

 

   

Dedicated associates and experienced executive leadership

 

   

Reputation as a personal banking company both as relates to lending and deposit products.

 

   

Size relative to community banks—the ability to leverage technology, customer service and sales and human resources expenditures

 

Market Opportunities

 

   

Expansion of branch network and asset base as a result of FDIC assisted bank acquisitions

 

   

Presence in diverse and growing geographic locales

 

   

Potential for attraction of customers of super-regional banks who have ceased providing an acceptable level of customer service, or have experienced financial and reputational challenges

 

   

Potential for attraction of former customers of banks that either have merged or will likely merge with super-regional banks or with one another

 

   

Potential for attracting customers of community banks that lack First Citizens’ level of financial expertise and breadth of products and services, or have experienced financial and reputational challenges

 

   

Despite the economic environment creating current stress on noninterest income levels, potential for increased volumes of fee income in areas such as merchant processing, debit and credit card interchange, client bank services, insurance, business and treasury services, wealth management and broker/dealer activities

 

   

Potential for incremental profitable sales as a result of an improved sales and relationship management culture, relationship profitability and sales management systems

 

   

Potential for customer attraction, enhanced customer experience and incremental sales as a result of the growing desire of customers to acquire financial services over the Internet

 

   

Expansion of sales of banking services within wealth management

 

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The global recession has forced the Federal Reserve to maintain interest rates at unprecedented low levels and use various forms of monetary policy in an attempt to drive down long-term interest rates. The presence of historically low interest rates has created net interest income challenges for the banking industry in general. We expect that the combination of high credit costs, revenue reductions arising from legislated restrictions on NSF/OD fees, and material expenses caused by the recapitalization of the FDIC DIF, will cause the banking industry to report weak earnings and low capital generation during 2010.

 

Various external factors influence customer demand for our loan, lease and deposit products and ultimately affect the quality of our assets and our profitability. Recessionary economic conditions have caused higher rates of unemployment, and a growing inability for some businesses and consumers to meet their debt service obligations. In addition, real estate demand in many of our markets remains weak, resulting in a decline in real estate values that has adversely affected collateral values for certain of our loans. Further, the current and anticipated instability in alternative investment markets has influenced demand for our deposit and cash management products.

 

The meltdown in residential real estate in Georgia and Florida had a materially negative impact on the profitability of ISB during 2009 and will continue to adversely impact credit costs in 2010. Significant work to improve operational efficiency and margins has, however, improved core profitability in select markets. Maintaining a favorable mix of low cost deposits, building fee income and a focus on business lending are key priorities which will continue to improve core profitability. While ISB’s operating losses are expected to continue into 2010, improved results in more established markets and lower credit costs will help to significantly reduce the overall loss. Bancshares will continue to infuse capital into ISB to fund forecasted growth in assets.

 

Our liquidity will be provided primarily by a focused deposit-gathering process, including leveraging the existing branch network and through business and commercial relationships. While certificates of deposit will remain a key funding source, strong efforts will continue to be placed upon increasing the base of low cost stable deposits in demand deposit and money market categories. Additional funding will be provided as necessary through borrowings from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of Atlanta and brokered deposits.

 

Loan growth will be concentrated in the business and commercial categories. Fixed-rate loans will be used selectively to attract and retain relationships, ensuring that our total interest rate risk remains within acceptable standards for safety and soundness. Construction lending will be offered on a selective basis. The primary retail lending product will continue to be the Equity Line.

 

A key impact of the current banking crisis is the failure or merger of numerous banks, which in turn has created and will continue to allow for significant opportunities for First Citizens to capture customer relationships and distinguish itself from the financial and operating turmoil of its primary competitors. The sale by the FDIC of selected assets and liabilities of large numbers of failed banks provides significant opportunities for balance sheet and capital growth with little credit risk via FDIC loss share agreements.

 

FCB acquired selected assets and assumed selected liabilities of two failed banks during 2009, TVB and VB. Both transactions were consummated with the assistance and support of loss share agreements with the FDIC that significantly limit credit risk to FCB as the acquirer. As a result, the pre-tax gain on the two transactions recognized on the income statement equaled $104.4 million, which generated a significant portion of the capital to fund the acquired assets.

 

Management believes that the opportunity to continue to acquire failed bank assets and assume associated liabilities will remain optimal during 2010. These acquisitions provide an unprecedented opportunity to materially grow the balance sheet without the need for incremental external capital, and create material amounts of nonrecurring earnings with limited risk.

 

While it is believed that capital availability will not be a material restriction in executing our acquisition strategy, liquidity will likely be a constraint. Liquidity to fund these transactions will therefore be generated outside of the failed bank market through new core deposits within the legacy FCB franchise, augmented as needed by brokered deposits and FHLB borrowings.

 

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BancShares’ management has identified challenges that are most relevant and likely to have an impact on the achievement of organizational strategies as:

 

   

Continuation of a weak domestic economy driving high unemployment which has resulted in higher credit costs and low interest rates

 

   

Effective management of human resources in order to attract and retain qualified associates

 

   

Increased competition from larger banks and other financial service providers that mandate tighter margins on loan and deposit products

 

   

The need to continue to make significant investments in banking delivery channels

 

   

Overcapacity in noninterest expense structure reduces ability to effectively compete with non-bank and super-regional banking competitors

 

   

Additional regulation causing further deterioration in revenues, earnings and capital formation to support lending and customer services

 

   

Proper management of assets acquired from FDIC failed institutions

 

Financial institutions have typically focused their strategic and operating emphasis on maximizing profitability, and therefore have measured their relative success by reference to profitability measures such as return on average assets or return on average shareholders’ equity. BancShares’ return on average assets and return on average equity have historically compared unfavorably to the returns of similar-sized financial holding companies. We have consistently placed primary strategic emphasis upon balance sheet liquidity, asset quality and capital conservation, even when those priorities may be detrimental to short-term profitability. While we have not been immune from adverse influences arising from economic weaknesses, our long-standing focus on balance sheet strength served us well during 2009.

 

Weak economic conditions in our principal market areas throughout 2009 have had an adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations through soft demand for our loan products, reduced noninterest income and high provisions for loan and lease losses. In many of our markets, unfavorable trends, such as increased unemployment, falling real estate prices and increased loan default and bankruptcy rates, demonstrate the difficult business conditions which are affecting the general economy and therefore our operating results.

 

Although we are unable to control the external factors that influence our business, by maintaining high levels of balance sheet liquidity, managing our interest rate exposures and by actively monitoring asset quality, we seek to minimize the potentially adverse risks of unforeseen and unfavorable economic trends and take advantage of favorable economic conditions when appropriate.

 

Once economic conditions begin to improve, we will be well positioned to resume favorable organic growth and profitability trends. We operate in diverse geographic markets and can increase our business volumes and profitability by offering competitive products and superior customer service. We continue to concentrate our marketing efforts on business owners, medical and other professionals and financially active individuals. We seek to increase fee income in areas such as wealth management, cardholder and merchant services, insurance and treasury services. Leveraging on our investments in technology, we also focus on opportunities to generate income by providing various processing services to other banks.

 

First Citizens BancShares reported earnings for 2009 of $116.3 million, or $11.15 per share, compared to $91.1 million, or $8.73 per share in 2008. Net income as a percentage of average assets equaled 0.66 percent during 2009, compared to 0.56 percent during 2008. The return on average equity was 7.94 percent for 2009, compared to 6.13 percent for 2008. Results for 2009 include after-tax gains of $63.5 million related to the FDIC assisted acquisitions (the 2009 Acquisitions) of certain assets and assumption of certain liabilities of TVB in Temecula, California and VB in Lacey, Washington. The gains resulted from the excess of the fair value of the recorded assets over the fair value of the liabilities assumed. Net income during 2009 also reflected improved net interest income, higher noninterest expense and additional provision for loan and lease losses.

 

Net interest income during 2009 increased $12.1 million, or 2.4 percent, versus 2008. Average interest-earning assets grew $976.0 million, or 6.6 percent, during 2009 due to the 2009 Acquisitions and organic growth in core markets.

 

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However, the impact of low interest rates offset the benefit of asset growth. As a result, the taxable-equivalent net yield on interest-earning assets fell 15 basis points to 3.25 percent during 2009, when compared to 2008.

 

The provision for loan and lease losses increased $13.4 million, or 20.4 percent during 2009. Net loan and lease charge-offs for 2009 totaled $64.7 million, compared to $45.3 million recorded during the same period of 2008. Higher 2009 net charge-offs of noncovered loans were primarily noted in the commercial, unsecured revolving credit, and revolving residential mortgage loan portfolios. The ratio of net charge-offs to average loans and leases not covered by FDIC loss share agreements in 2009 equaled 0.56 percent, compared to 0.40 percent for the prior year. Total nonperforming assets equaled $374.3 million at December 31, 2009, with $220.2 million covered by loss share agreements with the FDIC and $154.0 million not covered by loss share agreements.

 

The gain recognized on the 2009 Acquisitions totaled $104.4 million. Noninterest income from cardholder and merchant services, service charges on deposit accounts and wealth management services declined $8.6 million, or 3.8 percent, during 2009 due to general economic conditions. As a result of rate-induced refinance activity, mortgage income increased during 2009.

 

Noninterest expense increased $51.3 million, or 8.5 percent, during 2009. Significantly contributing to that increase was a $24.2 million increase in FDIC deposit insurance premium expense. Costs related to the maintenance, writedown and resolution of other real estate owned increased $11.4 million during 2009, approximately $5.5 million of which relates to assets covered under loss share agreements. Salaries and wages increased $5.1 million, or 2.0 percent, during 2009, primarily due to acquisitions. Benefit costs were up $5.5 million, or 9.3 percent, for the year as health insurance and pension costs continued to escalate. Occupancy costs grew $5.4 million, or 8.9 percent, due partly to the 2009 Acquisitions.

 

Under the purchase and assumption agreements with the FDIC, FCB received cash, investments securities, loans, foreclosed real estate, deposits and borrowings. The acquired loans and foreclosed real estate are covered by loss share agreements with the FDIC that provide significant loss protection to FCB. At December 31, 2009, FCB had $1.27 billion of covered assets, $220.2 million of which were nonperforming. Noncovered assets that are nonperforming as of December 31, 2009 totaled $154.0 million, compared to $71.7 million at December 31, 2008, an increase of $82.4 million primarily due to higher restructured loans and continuing weakness in the residential construction portfolio in the Atlanta, Georgia, and southwest Florida markets.

 

Table 2

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

 

Year

  

Description of transaction

   Total
Loans
   Total
Deposits
          (thousands)

2009

   Purchase substantially all the assets and assume substantially all the liabilities of Venture Bank of Lacey, Washington    $ 456,995    $ 709,091

2009

   Purchase substantially all the assets and assume substantially all the liabilities of Temecula Valley Bank of Temecula, California      855,583      965,431

2007

   Sale of American Guaranty Insurance Company, a property and casualty insurance company      —        —  

2007

   Sale of Triangle Life Insurance Company, an accident and life insurance company      —        —  

 

Total loans and deposits for VB and TVB are shown at acquisition date fair value as reported in Form 8-K/A filed on December 21, 2009 and February 1, 2010, respectively. Further details of the 2009 Acquisitions are documented in Note B in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS

 

Interest-earning assets include loans and leases, investment securities, interest bearing cash in banks and overnight investments, all of which reflect varying interest rates based on the risk level and repricing characteristics of the underlying asset. Riskier investments typically carry a higher interest rate, but expose us to potentially higher levels of default.

 

We have historically focused on maintaining high asset quality, which results in a loan and lease portfolio subjected to strenuous underwriting and monitoring procedures. This focus on asset quality also influences the composition of our investment securities portfolio. At December 31, 2009, United States Treasury and government agency securities represented 78.0 percent of our investment securities portfolio. Mortgage-backed securities comprised only 4.6 percent of the total portfolio while corporate bonds purchased from banks participating in the TLGP represent 16.6 percent. Overnight investments are selectively made with other financial institutions that are within our risk tolerance.

 

Changes in our interest-earning assets reflect the impact of liquidity generated by deposits and short-term borrowings, the majority of which arises from various treasury services products. The size of the investment securities portfolio changes principally based on trends among loans, deposits and short-term borrowings. When inflows arising from deposit and treasury services products exceed loan and lease demand, we invest excess funds in the securities portfolio. Conversely, when loan demand exceeds growth in deposits and short-term borrowings, we allow overnight investments to decline and use proceeds from maturing securities to fund loan demand.

 

Loans and Leases

 

Loans not covered by loss share agreements secured by commercial mortgages totaled $4.55 billion at December 31, 2009, a $208.3 million or 4.8 percent increase from December 31, 2008. In 2008 commercial mortgage loans increased 9.1 percent over 2007. The sustained growth reflects our continued focus on small business customers, particularly among medical-related and other professional customers targeted by our banking subsidiaries. As a percentage of total loans and leases not covered by loss share agreements, noncovered commercial mortgage loans represent 39.1 percent at December 31, 2009 and 37.3 percent at December 31, 2008. A large percentage of our commercial mortgage portfolio not covered by loss share agreements is secured by owner-occupied facilities rather than investment property. These loans are underwritten based primarily upon the cash flow from the operation of the business rather than the value of the real estate collateral.

 

At December 31, 2009, there were $590.4 million of commercial mortgage loans covered by loss share agreements, which is 50.3 percent of the $1.17 billion of covered loans. Including covered commercial mortgage loans, total commercial mortgage loans as of December 31, 2009 total $5.14 billion, 40.1 percent of total loans and leases.

 

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Table 3

LOANS AND LEASES

 

     December 31
   2009    2008    2007    2006    2005
   (thousands)

Loans covered under loss share agreements

   $ 1,173,020    $ —      $ —      $ —      $ —  

Loans and leases not covered under loss share agreements:

              

Real estate:

              

Construction and land development

     622,354      778,315      810,818      783,680      766,945

Commercial mortgage

     4,552,078      4,343,809      3,982,496      3,725,752      3,518,563

Residential mortgage

     864,704      894,802      953,209      812,426      807,434

Revolving mortgage

     2,147,223      1,911,852      1,494,431      1,326,403      1,368,729

Other mortgage

     158,187      149,478      145,552      165,223      172,712
                                  

Total real estate loans

     8,344,546      8,078,256      7,386,506      6,813,484      6,634,383

Commercial and industrial

     1,832,670      1,885,358      1,707,394      1,526,818      1,206,585

Consumer

     941,986      1,233,075      1,368,228      1,360,524      1,318,971

Lease financing

     330,713      353,933      340,601      294,366      233,499

Other

     195,084      99,264      85,354      65,042      53,549
                                  

Total loans and leases not covered under loss share agreements

     11,644,999      11,649,886      10,888,083      10,060,234      9,446,987
                                  

Total loans and leases

     12,818,019      11,649,886      10,888,083      10,060,234      9,446,987

Less allowance for loan and lease losses

     172,282      157,569      136,974      132,004      128,847
                                  

Net loans and leases

     12,645,737    $ 11,492,317    $ 10,751,109    $ 9,928,230    $ 9,318,140
                                  

 

There were no foreign loans or leases in any period.

 

     December 31, 2009
   Impaired at
acquisition
date
   All other
acquired
loans
   Total
     (thousands)

Loans covered under loss share agreements:

        

Real estate:

        

Construction and land development

   $ 22,700    $ 283,342    $ 306,042

Commercial mortgage

     36,820      553,579      590,399

Residential mortgage

     8,828      143,481      152,309

Other mortgage

     331      21,307      21,638
                    

Total real estate loans

     68,679      1,001,709      1,070,388

Commercial and industrial

     5,958      89,273      95,231

Consumer

     255      4,259      4,514

Other

     476      2,411      2,887
                    

Total loans covered under loss share agreements

   $ 75,368    $ 1,097,652    $ 1,173,020
                    

 

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At December 31, 2009, revolving mortgage loans secured by real estate totaled $2.15 billion, compared to $1.91 billion at December 31, 2008. The $235.4 million or 12.3 percent increase in revolving mortgage loans in 2009 resulted from higher customer utilization. At December 31, 2009, revolving mortgage loans represented 16.8 percent of loans and leases, compared to 16.4 percent at December 31, 2008. There are no revolving mortgage loans covered by loss share agreements.

 

Commercial and industrial loans not covered by loss share agreements equaled $1.83 billion at December 31, 2009, compared to $1.89 billion at December 31, 2008, a decline of $52.7 million or 2.8 percent. This decrease follows an increase of $178.0 million or 10.4 percent from 2007 to 2008. Serious weakness in the economy has limited our ability to find loans that meet our underwriting standards, especially within the commercial and industrial portfolio. Commercial and industrial loans not covered by loss share agreements represent 15.7 percent and 16.2 percent of loans and leases not covered by loss share agreements, respectively, as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.

 

Commercial and industrial loans covered by loss share agreements total $95.2 million which is 8.1 percent of total covered loans. Including covered loans, total commercial and industrial loans as of December 31, 2009 equal $1.93 billion, 15.0 percent of total loans and leases.

 

Consumer loans not covered by loss share agreements total $942.0 million at December 31, 2009, a decrease of $291.1 million from the prior year. This decline results from our decision during 2008 to discontinue originations of sales finance loans through our dealer network. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, consumer loans not covered by loss share agreements represent 8.1 percent and 10.6 percent of the noncovered loans, respectively.

 

Consumer loans covered by loss share agreements at December 31, 2009 total $4.5 million, 0.4 percent of total loans and leases covered. Including covered consumer loans, total consumer loans are 7.4 percent of total loans and leases.

 

There were $864.7 million of residential mortgage loans not covered by loss share agreements and an additional $152.3 million covered for a total of $1.02 billion of residential mortgage loans as of December 31, 2009, 7.9 percent of total loans and leases.

 

Construction and land development loans not covered by loss share agreements equaled $622.4 million at December 31, 2009, a reduction of $156.0 million or 20.0 percent from December 31, 2008. Of the $622.4 million outstanding as of December 31, 2009, $67.8 million was in the Atlanta, Georgia and southwest Florida markets. Both of these market areas experienced significant reductions in real estate values during 2009. The majority of the remaining $554.6 million of noncovered construction and land development loans are in North Carolina and Virginia.

 

Construction and land development loans covered by loss share agreements at December 31, 2009 total $306.0 million, 26.1 percent of total loans covered by loss share agreements. Total construction and land development loans equal $928.4 million, which is 7.2 percent of total loans and leases.

 

Due to the generally weak demand for loans in our market areas and the challenge to provide liquidity to fund rapid levels of loan growth, our projections for 2010 anticipate a modest increase in our loan portfolio. Commercial and industrial and real estate secured loans will continue to grow, but at a much reduced rate. Projected economic instability could constrain customer demand for loans and lender support for increased debt levels. All growth projections are subject to change due to further economic deterioration or improvement and other external factors.

 

FCB announced in January 2010 that it had acquired substantially all of the assets and assumed a majority of the liabilities of First Regional Bank, headquartered in Los Angeles, California, in an FDIC-assisted transaction. Assets acquired included loans with a carrying value of $1.94 billion, as reflected in the December 31, 2009 Call Report filed by First Regional Bank. This includes $989.4 million in commercial mortgage, $640.4 million in construction and land development, $248.2 million in commercial and industrial and $66.8 million in consumer mortgage and other consumer loans. These loans will be recorded at their fair market value on the consolidated balance sheet of BancShares. Such fair market valuations were incomplete as of the date of filing of this Form 10-K.

 

Changes to accounting for transferred assets that become effective on January 1, 2010, will result in revolving mortgage loans with a fair value of $97.3 million returning to the consolidated balance sheet. These loans were sold in an asset securitization in 2005 but, due to changes in US GAAP, the fair value of these loans will be reconsolidated during 2010.

 

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Investment Securities

 

Investment securities available for sale at December 31, 2009 and 2008 totaled $2.93 billion and $3.22 billion, respectively, a $290.2 million or 9.0 percent decrease. The reduction was primarily attributable to our decision to increase balances of overnight investments in late-2009 in lieu of investing available liquidity in investment securities available for sale. Available for sale securities are reported at their aggregate fair value, and unrealized gains and losses on available for sale securities are included as a component of other comprehensive income, net of deferred taxes.

 

Investment securities held to maturity equaled $3.6 million and $5.9 million, respectively, at December 31, 2009 and 2008. Securities that are classified as held to maturity reflect BancShares’ ability and positive intent to hold those investments until maturity.

 

Table 4 presents detailed information relating to the investment securities portfolio.

 

Income on interest-earning assets.

 

Interest income amounted to $738.2 million during 2009, a $75.2 million or 9.2 percent decrease from 2008, compared to an $88.8 million or 9.8 percent decrease from 2007 to 2008. The decrease in interest income during 2009 resulted from lower yields, partially offset by growth in interest-earning assets.

 

Table 5 analyzes taxable-equivalent yields and rates on interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities for the five years ending December 31, 2009. The taxable-equivalent yield on interest-earning assets was 4.69 percent during 2009, an 82 basis point drop from the 5.51 percent reported in 2008, caused by significant reductions in market interest rates. The taxable-equivalent yield on interest-earning assets equaled 6.38 percent in 2007.

 

The taxable-equivalent yield on the loan and lease portfolio decreased from 6.05 percent in 2008 to 5.49 percent in 2009. The 56 basis point yield drop partially offset by the $756.1 million, or 6.7 percent, growth in average loans and leases contributed to a decrease in loan interest income of $22.3 million or 3.3 percent over 2008. This followed a decrease of $45.7 million or 6.3 percent in loan interest income in 2008 over 2007, driven by an 89 basis point yield decrease; partially offset by an increase in average loans and leases of $793.3 million.

 

Interest income earned on the investment securities portfolio amounted to $77.9 million and $122.7 million during 2009 and 2008, respectively, with a taxable-equivalent yield of 2.36 percent and 4.09 percent. The $44.9 million decrease in investment interest income during 2009 reflected the 173 basis points decrease in the taxable-equivalent yield. The $19.7 million decrease in interest income earned on investment securities during 2008 resulted from a 67 basis point decrease in the taxable-equivalent yield.

 

Interest earned on overnight investments equaled $731,000 during 2009, compared to $8.8 million during 2008, a decrease driven by a 174 basis point yield decline and a $79.9 million decrease in average overnight investments during 2009. During 2008, interest income earned from overnight investments decreased $23.4 million or 72.8 percent, the result of significantly lower yields and a $183.8 million decrease in average overnight investments.

 

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Table 4

INVESTMENT SECURITIES

 

    December 31
  2009     2008   2007
  Cost   Fair
Value
  Average
Maturity
(Yrs./Mos.)
  Taxable
Equivalent
Yield
    Cost   Fair
Value
  Cost   Fair
Value
  (thousands, except maturity and yield information)

Investment securities available for sale:

               

U.S. Government:

               

Within one year

  $ 1,543,760   $ 1,554,353   0/6   1.91   $ 1,349,114   $ 1,374,022   $ 1,667,530   $ 1,675,309

One to five years

    730,324     733,070   1/3   1.12        1,704,326     1,738,406     1,377,715     1,399,434

Five to ten years

    —       —           —       —       6,300     6,287
                                             

Total

    2,274,084     2,287,423   1/9   1.65        3,053,440     3,112,428     3,051,545     3,081,030
                                             

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage- backed securities:

               

One to five years

    13,430     13,729   2/4   1.24        32     30     51     48

Five to ten years

    917     914   8/3   4.96        789     791     135     132

Over ten years

    112,254     115,695   26/4   5.38        80,288     82,131     78,012     77,632
                                             

Total

    126,601     130,338   23/10   4.40        81,109     82,952     78,198     77,812
                                             

Corporate bonds:

               

One to five years

    481,341     485,667   2/2   1.83        —       —       —       —  
                                             

Total

    481,341     485,667   2/2   1.83        —       —       —       —  
                                             

State, county and municipal:

               

Within one year

    303     304   0/2   4.86        1,682     1,687     709     708

One to five years

    1,107     1,138   2/4   4.64        1,416     1,356     2,246     2,236

Five to ten years

    —       —           —       —       356     363

Over ten years

    5,643     5,371   15/7   5.18        10     10     66     65
                                             

Total

    7,053     6,813   13/10   5.08        3,108     3,053     3,377     3,372
                                             

Other:

               

Five to ten years

    1,026     1,287   8/5   11.03        —       —       —       —  

Over ten years

    911     1,012   21/0   14.49        3,691     5,427     7,771     9,390
                                             

Total

    1,937     2,299   13/11   12.55        3,691     5,427     7,771     9,390
                                             

Equity securities

    2,377     16,622         3,291     15,461     2,987     27,010
                                       

Total investment securities available for sale

    2,893,393     2,929,162         3,144,639     3,219,321     3,143,878     3,198,614
                                       

Investment securities held to maturity:

               

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage- backed securities:

               

Five to ten years

    3,306     3,497   7/3   5.54        4,117     4,289     5,563     5,612

Over ten years

    146     185   18/3   6.48        165     198     197     231
                                             

Total

    3,452     3,682   7/9   5.58
  
    4,282     4,487     5,760     5,843
                                             

State, county and municipal:

               

Within one year

    —       —           151     151     —       —  

One to five years

    151     152   3/10   5.50        —       —       149     153

Five to ten years

    —       —           1,440     1,472     —       —  

Over ten years

    —       —           —       —       1,435     1,530
                                             

Total

    151     152   8/6   6.01        1,591     1,623     1,584     1,683
                                             

Other:

               

Within one year

    —       —       —          —       —       250     250
                                           

Total

    —       —       —          —       —       250     250
                                             

Total investment securities held to maturity

    3,603     3,834   8/8   5.69        5,873     6,110     7,594     7,776
                                             

Total investment securities

  $ 2,896,996   $ 2,932,996       $ 3,150,512   $ 3,225,431   $ 3,151,472   $ 3,206,390
                                       

 

The average maturity assumes callable securities mature on their earliest call date; yields are based on amortized cost; yields related to securities that are exempt from federal and/or state income taxes are stated on a taxable-equivalent basis assumming statutory rates of 35.0 percent for federal income taxes and 6.9 percent for state income taxes for all periods.

 

Corporate bonds are debt securities issued pursuant to the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program issued with the full faith and credit of the United States of America.

 

 

 

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Table 5

AVERAGE BALANCE SHEETS

 

    2009     2008  
  Average
Balance
    Interest
Income/
Expense
  Yield/
Rate
    Average
Balance
    Interest
Income/
Expense
  Yield/
Rate
 
  (dollars in thousands, taxable equivalent)  

Assets

           

Loans and leases

  $ 12,062,954      $ 661,750   5.49   $ 11,306,900      $ 683,943   6.05

Investment securities:

           

U.S. Government

    2,908,651        67,998   2.34        2,994,352        121,803   4.07   

Corporate bonds

    342,643        6,283   1.83        —          —    

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage- backed securities

    108,228        4,812   4.45        80,697        4,311   5.34   

State, county and municipal

    4,693        431   9.18        4,828        322   6.67   

Other

    48,405        1,085   2.24        32,840        962   2.93   
                                       

Total investment securities

    3,412,620        80,609   2.36        3,112,717        127,398   4.09   

Overnight investments

    370,940        731   0.20        450,884        8,755   1.94   
                                       

Total interest-earning assets

    15,846,514      $ 743,090   4.69     14,870,501      $ 820,096   5.51

Cash and due from banks

    597,443            591,032       

Premises and equipment

    821,961            781,149       

Allowance for loan and lease losses

    (162,542         (145,523    

Other assets

    454,108            306,558       
                       

Total assets

  $ 17,557,484          $ 16,403,717       
                       

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity

           

Interest-bearing deposits:

           

Checking With Interest

  $ 1,547,135      $ 1,692   0.11   $ 1,440,908      $ 1,414   0.10

Savings

    592,610        684   0.12        545,048        1,103   0.20   

Money market accounts

    3,880,703        27,078   0.70        3,187,012        59,298   1.86   

Time deposits

    5,585,200        154,305   2.76        5,402,505        201,723   3.73   
                                       

Total interest-bearing deposits

    11,605,648        183,759   1.58        10,575,473        263,538   2.49   

Short-term borrowings

    654,347        4,882   0.75        1,129,563        17,502   1.55   

Long-term obligations

    753,242        39,003   5.18        607,463        33,905   5.58   
                                       

Total interest-bearing liabilities

    13,013,237      $ 227,644   1.75     12,312,499      $ 314,945   2.56

Demand deposits

    2,973,220            2,532,773       

Other liabilities

    105,074            73,840       

Shareholders’ equity

    1,465,953            1,484,605       
                       

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

  $ 17,557,484          $ 16,403,717       
                       

Interest rate spread

      2.94       2.95

Net interest income and net yield on interest-earning assets

    $ 515,446   3.25     $ 505,151   3.40
                           

 

Loans and leases include loans covered by loss share agreements, loans not covered by loss share agreements, nonaccrual loans and loans held for sale. Yields related to loans, leases and securities exempt from both federal and state income taxes, federal income taxes only, or state income taxes only, are stated on a taxable-equivalent basis assuming a statutory federal income tax rate of 35.0 percent and a state income tax rate of 6.9 percent for all periods. Loan fees, which are not material for any period shown, are included in the yield calculation.

 

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Table 5

AVERAGE BALANCE SHEETS (continued)

 

    2007     2006     2005  
    Average
Balance
    Interest
Income/
Expense
   Yield/
Rate
    Average
Balance
     Interest
Income/
Expense
   Yield/
Rate
    Average
Balance
     Interest
Income/
Expense
   Yield/
Rate
 
    (dollars in thousands, taxable equivalent)  
                      
  $ 10,513,599      $ 729,635    6.94   $ 9,989,757       $ 685,114    6.86   $ 9,375,249       $ 575,735    6.14
                      
    2,989,248        142,235    4.76        2,890,611         113,904    3.94        2,421,756         74,085    3.06   
    —          —          —           —          —           —     
    79,229        4,248    5.36        58,590         3,065    5.23        41,789         2,182    5.22   
    5,321        346    6.50        6,174         374    6.06        7,238         404    5.58   
    38,374        1,225    3.19        41,052         1,497    3.65        62,378         1,004    1.61   
                                                                  
    3,112,172        148,054    4.76        2,996,427         118,840    3.97        2,533,161         77,675    3.07   
    634,671        32,169    5.07        619,247         30,903    4.99        595,467         19,208    3.23   
                                                                  
    14,260,442      $ 909,858    6.38     13,605,431       $ 834,857    6.14     12,503,877       $ 672,618    5.38
    705,864             757,428              654,821         
    735,465             669,748              608,668         
    (132,530          (131,077           (127,968      
    349,981             338,797              265,862         
                                          
  $ 15,919,222           $ 15,240,327            $ 13,905,260         
                                          
                      
                      
  $ 1,431,085      $ 1,971    0.14   $ 1,522,439       $ 1,875    0.12   $ 1,570,010       $ 1,923    0.12
    573,286        1,235    0.22        649,619         1,382    0.21        737,830         1,521    0.21   
    2,835,255        94,541    3.33        2,691,292         79,522    2.95        2,643,330         50,171    1.90   
    5,283,782        243,489    4.61        4,967,591         197,399    3.97        4,209,996         123,016    2.92   
                                                                  
    10,123,408        341,236    3.37        9,830,941         280,178    2.85        9,161,166         176,631    1.93   
    1,354,255        55,126    4.07        981,210         41,431    4.22        598,948         14,966    2.50   
    405,758        27,352    6.74        450,272         32,128    7.14        353,885         26,554    7.54   
                                                                  
    11,883,421      $ 423,714    3.57     11,262,423       $ 353,737    3.14     10,113,999       $ 218,151    2.16
    2,535,828             2,622,014              2,553,403         
    129,356             114,636              106,792         
    1,370,617             1,241,254              1,131,066         
                                          
  $ 15,919,222           $ 15,240,327            $ 13,905,260         
                                          
       2.81         3.00         3.22
    $ 486,144    3.41      $ 481,120    3.54      $ 454,467    3.63
                                              

 

INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES

 

Interest-bearing liabilities include interest-bearing deposits as well as short-term borrowings and long-term obligations. Deposits are our primary funding source, although we also utilize non-deposit borrowings to stabilize our liquidity base and to fulfill commercial customer demand for treasury services. Certain of our long-term borrowings also currently qualify as capital under guidelines established by the Federal Reserve and other banking regulators.

 

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Deposits

 

At December 31, 2009, deposits totaled $15.34 billion, an increase of $1.62 billion or 11.8 percent from the $13.71 billion in deposits recorded as of December 31, 2008. The 2009 Acquisitions accounted for $954.8 million of the growth from 2008. Money market deposits increased $638.5 million or 18.0 percent from December 31, 2008 to December 31, 2009, while demand deposits increased $562.5 million or 21.2 percent. Checking With Interest increased $251.3 million or 16.9 percent in 2009. Time deposits increased marginally, up $66.6 million or 1.2 percent. As a result of declining interest rates during 2009, depositors elected to place available liquidity in money market and transaction accounts rather than time deposits.

 

During 2009, competition and pricing for deposit business in our market areas remained intense, particularly from larger bank competitors confronting funding and other financial challenges.

 

Due to the ongoing industry-wide liquidity challenges that intensified during 2009 and our historic focus on maintaining a liquid balance sheet, we continued our focus on deposit attraction and retention as a key business objective. Our ability to satisfy customer loan demand could potentially be constrained unless we are able to continue to generate new deposits at a reasonable cost.

 

Table 6

MATURITIES OF TIME DEPOSITS OF $100,000 OR MORE

 

     December 31,
2009
     (thousands)

Less than three months

   $ 722,380

Three to six months

     597,660

Six to 12 months

     815,061

More than 12 months

     504,225
      

Total

   $ 2,639,326
      

 

Short-term borrowings

 

At December 31, 2009, short-term borrowings totaled $642.4 million, compared to $647.0 million one year earlier, a 0.7 percent decrease. The $4.6 million reduction resulted from the net impact of reduced balances of our treasury services sweep accounts offset by higher current maturities of long-term obligations arising from the 2009 Acquisitions.

 

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Table 7

SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

 

     2009     2008     2007  
     Amount    Rate     Amount    Rate     Amount    Rate  
     (dollars in thousands)  

Master notes

               

At December 31

   $ 395,577    0.20   $ 472,573    0.25     $923,424    3.02

Average during year

     443,286    0.52        819,209    1.52        910,389    4.19   

Maximum month-end balance during year

     487,372    —          929,613    —          1,035,278    —     

Repurchase agreements

               

At December 31

     91,583    0.10        103,878    0.15        286,090    2.27   

Average during year

     103,023    0.26        211,853    0.82        303,862    3.38   

Maximum month-end balance during year

     105,253    —          293,703    —          325,790    —     

Federal funds purchased

               

At December 31

     12,551    0.01        10,551    0.10        23,893    3.60   

Average during year

     9,059    0.08        40,079    1.69        59,050    5.07   

Maximum month-end balance during year

     15,551    —          96,551    —          101,753    —     

Notes payable to Federal Home Loan Banks

               

At December 31

     128,761    2.70        50,000    4.95        50,000    4.95   

Average during year

     84,965    2.68        50,000    4.95        50,000    4.95   

Maximum month-end balance during year

     128,761    —          50,000    —          50,000    —     

Other

               

At December 31

     13,933    —          10,026    0.04        21,880    3.60   

Average during year

     14,014    —          8,422    2.04        30,954    3.96   

Maximum month-end balance during year

     20,023    —          21,286    —          46,785    —     

 

Long-term obligations

 

At December 31, 2009 and 2008, long-term obligations totaled $797.4 million and $733.1 million, respectively, an increase of $64.2 million or 8.8 percent. The increase during 2009 results from the fair value of borrowings from the FHLB of Seattle that were assumed in the VB transaction.

 

For 2009 and 2008, long-term obligations included $273.2 million in junior subordinated debentures representing obligations to two special purpose entities, FCB/NC Capital Trust I and FCB/NC Capital Trust III (the Capital Trusts). The Capital Trusts are the grantor trusts for $265.0 million of trust preferred capital securities outstanding as of December 31, 2009. The proceeds from the trust preferred capital securities were used to purchase the junior subordinated debentures issued by BancShares. Under current regulatory standards, these junior subordinated debentures qualify as capital for BancShares. The $150.0 million in trust preferred capital securities issued by FCB/NC Capital Trust I mature in 2028 and may be redeemed in whole or in part at a premium that declines until 2018, when the redemption price equals the par value of the securities. The $115.0 million in trust preferred capital securities issued by FCB/NC Capital Trust III mature in 2036 and may be redeemed at par in whole or in part on or after June 30, 2011. BancShares has guaranteed all obligations of the Capital Trusts.

 

Due to modifications to US GAAP that are effective on January 1, 2010, FCB will record a long-term obligation that results from recognition of the debt component of an asset securitization that was completed during 2005. The balance of the debt obligation, which was $85.8 million as of December 31, 2009, is projected to be repaid over a 30-month period.

 

Expense of interest-bearing liabilities

 

Interest expense amounted to $227.6 million in 2009, an $87.3 million or 27.7 percent decrease from 2008. This followed a $108.8 million or 25.7 percent decrease in interest expense during 2008 compared to 2007. For 2009, the decrease in interest expense was the net result of lower interest rates offset in part by increased levels of interest-bearing liabilities. The blended rate on total interest-bearing liabilities equaled 1.75 percent during 2009, compared to 2.56 percent in 2008 and 3.57 percent in 2007. Interest-bearing liabilities averaged $13.01 billion during 2009, an increase of

 

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$700.7 million or 5.7 percent over 2008 levels. During 2008, interest-bearing liabilities averaged $12.31 billion, an increase of $429.1 million or 3.6 percent over 2007.

 

Interest expense on interest-bearing deposits equaled $183.8 million during 2009, down $79.8 million or 30.3 percent from 2008. The impact of lower interest rates more than offset added expense from higher deposit balances. Lower market interest rates caused the aggregate rate on interest-bearing deposits to decline to 1.58 percent during 2009, down 91 basis points from 2008. Interest-bearing deposits averaged $11.61 billion during 2009, an increase of $1.03 billion or 9.7 percent. Average money market balances increased $693.7 million or 21.8 percent while average time deposits increased $182.7 million or 3.4 percent. During 2008, average time deposits increased $118.7 million or 2.2 percent.

 

Interest expense on short-term borrowings decreased $12.6 million or 72.1 percent during 2009, the result of decreases in the balances of both master note and repurchase obligations as well as lower rates. The rate on average short-term borrowings decreased 80 basis points from 1.55 percent in 2008 to 0.75 percent in 2009 due to reductions in the federal funds rate during 2009. During 2008, interest expense decreased $37.6 million over 2007, the result of a 252 basis point rate reduction from 4.07 percent in 2007 to 1.55 percent in 2008.

 

Interest expense on long-term obligations increased $5.1 million or 15.0 percent during 2009 due to new FHLB borrowings assumed as a part of the 2009 Acquisitions. The rate on average long-term obligations decreased 40 basis points from 5.58 percent in 2008 to 5.18 percent in 2009.

 

NET INTEREST INCOME

 

Net interest income amounted to $510.5 million during 2009, a $12.1 million or 2.4 percent increase over 2008. The increase from 2009 resulted from balance sheet growth as the taxable-equivalent net yield on interest-earning assets declined by 15 basis points from the prior year to 3.25 percent during 2009.

 

During 2008, net interest income equaled $498.4 million, a $19.9 million or 4.2 percent increase over 2007. The increase from 2007 resulted from balance sheet growth, the impact of which offset the unfavorable influence of a slight reduction in the net yield on interest-earning assets. The taxable-equivalent net yield on interest-earning assets was 3.40 percent in 2008 compared to 3.41 percent during 2007.

 

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Table 8 isolates the changes in taxable-equivalent net interest income due to changes in volume and interest rates for 2009 and 2008.

 

Table 8

CHANGES IN CONSOLIDATED TAXABLE EQUIVALENT NET INTEREST INCOME

 

    2009     2008  
    Change from previous year
due to:
    Change from previous year
due to:
 
    Volume     Yield/
Rate
    Total
Change
    Volume     Yield/
Rate
    Total
Change
 
    (thousands)  

Assets

 

Loans and leases

  $ 43,433      $ (65,626   $ (22,193   $ 51,467      $ (97,159   $ (45,692

Investment securities:

           

U.S. Government

    (2,746     (51,059     (53,805     218        (20,650     (20,432

Corporate bonds

    3,141        3,142        6,283                        

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities

    3,140        (2,639     501        78        (15     63   

State, county and municipal

    211        (102     109        (33     9        (24

Other

    402        (279     123        (170     (93     (263
                                               

Total investment securities

    4,148        (50,937     (46,789     93        (20,749     (20,656

Overnight investments

    (865     (7,159     (8,024     (6,434     (16,980     (23,414
                                               

Total interest-earning assets

  $ 46,716      $ (123,722   $ (77,006   $ 45,126      $ (134,888   $ (89,762
                                               

Liabilities

           

Interest-bearing deposits:

           

Checking With Interest

  $ 110      $ 168      $ 278      $ 11      $ (568   $ (557

Savings

    75        (494     (419     (59     (73     (132

Money market accounts

    8,873        (41,093     (32,220     9,137        (44,380     (35,243

Time deposits

    5,934        (53,352     (47,418     4,952        (46,718     (41,766
                                               

Total interest-bearing deposits

    14,992        (94,771     (79,779     14,041        (91,739     (77,698

Short-term borrowings

    (5,455     (7,165     (12,620     (6,314     (31,310     (37,624

Long-term obligations

    7,831        (2,733     5,098        12,427        (5,874     6,553   
                                               

Total interest-bearing liabilities

  $ 17,368      $ (104,669   $ (87,301   $ 20,154      $ (128,923   $ (108,769
                                               

Change in net interest income

  $ 29,348      $ (19,053   $ 10,295      $ 24,972      $ (5,965   $ 19,007   
                                               

 

Changes in income relating to certain loans, leases and investment securities are stated on a fully tax-equivalent basis at a rate that approximates BancShares’ marginal tax rate. The taxable equivalent adjustment was $4,931, $6,745 and $7,677 for the years 2009, 2008 and 2007 respectively. Table 5 provides detailed information on average balances, income/expense, yield/rate by category and the relevant income tax rates. The rate/volume variance is allocated equally between the changes in volume and rate.

 

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NONINTEREST INCOME

 

Growth of noninterest income is essential to our ability to sustain adequate levels of profitability. Traditionally, the primary sources of noninterest income are cardholder and merchant services income, service charges on deposit accounts, revenues derived from wealth management services and fees from processing services. During 2009, noninterest income also included gains resulting from the 2009 Acquisitions.

 

Noninterest income totaled $409.6 million during 2009, an increase of $96.1 million or 30.7 percent. Noninterest income during 2008 equaled $313.5 million, a $16.1 million or 5.4 percent increase over 2007. Table 9 presents the major components of noninterest income for the past five years.

 

Noninterest income during 2009 included $104.4 million in gains recognized on the 2009 Acquisitions. Other areas of improvement include fees from processing services and mortgage income. Mortgage income benefited during 2009 from significant refinance activity caused by low mortgage rates. These increases were partially offset by lower service charge, cardholder and merchant services, and wealth management income caused primarily by weak economic conditions during 2009.

 

The gains recorded on the 2009 Acquisitions represent the net of the fair values for assets acquired and liabilities assumed, adjusted for cash we received from the FDIC and for the benefits provided under the loss share agreements. As of December 31, 2009, noninterest income includes a bargain purchase gain of $104.4 million resulting from the 2009 Acquisitions. The initial gain of $104.9 million was adjusted $536,000 as a result of information received after the acquisition date that changed the fair values of loans, other real estate, FDIC receivable for loss share agreements and investment securities as of the acquisition date.

 

Cardholder and merchant services income amounted to $95.4 million in 2009, down $2.2 million from 2008. Merchant and interchange income earned on credit card transactions decreased during 2009; however, interchange income earned on debit transactions grew by $1.4 million or 6.1 percent in 2009.

 

Service charges on deposit accounts equaled $78.0 million during 2009, compared to $82.3 million in 2008, a $4.3 million or 5.2 percent decrease. Commercial service charge income, bad check and overdraft charges were all lower as a result of reduced customer activity. Service charge income will likely decline in future periods due to legislation affecting fees charged for overdrafts.

 

Table 9

NONINTEREST INCOME

 

     Year ended December 31  
     2009     2008    2007    2006     2005  
     (thousands)  

Gain on acquisitions

   $ 104,434      $ —      $ —      $ —        $ —     

Cardholder and merchant services

     95,376        97,577      97,070      86,103        75,298   

Service charges on deposit accounts

     78,028        82,349      77,827      72,561        77,376   

Wealth management services

     46,071        48,198      49,305      42,213        34,726   

Fees from processing services

     37,053        35,585      32,531      29,631        25,598   

Mortgage income

     10,435        6,564      6,305      5,494        5,361   

Insurance commissions

     8,129        8,277      7,735      6,942        6,390   

ATM income

     6,856        7,003      6,515      6,803        7,843   

Other service charges and fees

     16,411        17,598      15,318      15,996        16,902   

Securities gains (losses)

     (511     8,128      1,376      (659     (492

Other

     7,318        2,205      3,363      8,090        9,884   
                                      

Total

   $ 409,600      $ 313,484    $ 297,345    $ 273,174      $ 258,886   
                                      

 

During 2009, fees from processing services totaled $37.1 million, an increase of $1.5 million or 4.1 percent over 2008. During 2008, BancShares recognized $35.6 million in fees from processing services. Growth in the transaction volume of processed banks led to the favorable trend.

 

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Fees from wealth management services decreased $2.1 million to $46.1 million in 2009 from $48.2 million in 2008. The 4.4 percent decrease in 2009 was driven by lower trust and asset management fees due to market declines in assets under management.

 

Mortgage income during 2009 equaled $10.4 million, a 59.0 percent improvement over 2008 with most of the income resulting from sales of newly-originated residential mortgage loans and the related servicing rights to various investors. Insurance commissions totaled $8.1 million during 2009, a 1.8 percent decrease over 2008.

 

Other service charges and fees totaled $16.4 million during 2009, a decrease of $1.2 million or 6.7 percent from 2008 due to lower check cashing and international fees. Other noninterest income totaled $7.3 million during 2009, a $5.1 million increase primarily resulting from the $4.4 million gain recognized on the sale of our bond trustee operation.

 

Table 10

NONINTEREST EXPENSE

 

     Year ended December 31
     2009    2008    2007    2006    2005
     (thousands)

Salaries and wages

   $ 264,342    $ 259,250    $ 243,871    $ 228,472    $ 212,997

Employee benefits

     64,390      58,899      52,733      50,445      51,517

Occupancy expense

     66,266      60,839      56,922      52,153      46,912

Equipment expense

     60,310      57,715      56,404      52,490      50,291

Cardholder and merchant services expense:

              

Cardholder and merchant processing

     42,605      42,071      41,882      37,286      32,067

Cardholder reward programs

     8,457      9,323      12,529      9,228      5,878

FDIC deposit insurance

     29,344      5,126      2,619      1,550      1,578

Foreclosure-related expense

     15,107      3,658      2,086      456      504

Telecommunications

     11,314      12,061      10,501      9,844      9,873

Postage

     10,385      10,427      9,614      8,926      8,045

Processing fees paid to third parties

     9,672      8,985      7,004      5,845      4,332

Advertising

     8,111      8,098      7,499      7,212      7,206

Legal

     5,425      6,308      6,410      5,244      4,124

Consultant

     2,508      2,514      3,324      2,254      3,362

Amortization of intangibles

     1,940      2,048      2,142      2,318      2,453

Other

     57,476      59,038      59,779      57,073      55,684
                                  

Total

   $ 657,652    $ 606,360    $ 575,319    $ 530,796    $ 496,823
                                  

 

NONINTEREST EXPENSE

 

The primary components of noninterest expense are salaries and related employee benefits, occupancy costs for branch offices and support facilities and equipment and software costs related to branch offices and technology. Noninterest expense for 2009 amounted to $657.7 million, a $51.3 million or 8.5 percent increase over 2008. Noninterest expenses related to the 2009 Acquisitions accounted for approximately $20.3 million of the 2009 increase, while FDIC insurance expense soared by $24.2 million from the prior year. Noninterest expense in 2008 was $606.4 million, a $31.0 million or 5.4 percent increase over 2007. For 2009 and 2008, $3.7 million and $7.7 million of the respective increases in total noninterest expense are attributable to the growth and expansion of ISB. Table 10 presents the major components of noninterest expense for the past five years.

 

Salary expense totaled $264.3 million during 2009, compared to $259.3 million during 2008, an increase of $5.1 million or 2.0 percent, following a $15.4 million or 6.3 percent increase in 2008 over 2007. The increase in 2009 is attributable to staff costs for new branch offices and headcount additions in support functions. The 2009 Acquisitions accounted for $7.7 million of incremental salaries in 2009.

 

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Employee benefits expense equaled $64.4 million during 2009, an increase of $5.5 million or 9.3 percent from 2008. The 2009 increase results from a $5.0 million increase in pension costs triggered by a lower discount rate applied to plan liabilities and the unfavorable impact of other accounting assumptions. Health insurance expense increased $2.7 million as the cost of employee health care continues to rise. These increases were partially offset by lower executive retirement costs during 2009.

 

BancShares recorded occupancy expense of $66.3 million during 2009, an increase of $5.4 million or 8.9 percent during 2009. Occupancy expense during 2008 equaled $60.8 million, an increase of $3.9 million or 6.9 percent over 2007. The increase in occupancy expense during 2009 resulted from higher lease costs, depreciation expense and building repairs. The 2009 Acquisitions accounted for $1.7 million of the increase. Higher occupancy expense during 2008 resulted from improvements to our corporate headquarters building and significant increases in building repairs.

 

Equipment expense was $60.3 million for 2009 and $57.7 million in 2008. The $2.6 million increase during 2009 resulted primarily from increased software costs.

 

Costs associated with various cardholder reward programs totaled $8.5 million during 2009 compared to $9.3 million during 2008. The $866,000 reduction resulted from lower credit card rewards offset by increased expenses for debit card rewards. Processing fees paid to third parties increased $687,000 or 7.65 percent during 2009, the result of greater utilization of outsourced technology.

 

Telecommunications expense totaled $11.3 million during 2009, a decrease of $747,000 or 6.2 percent from 2008. Losses and other costs sustained on the maintenance and disposition of foreclosed assets increased $11.4 million during 2009.

 

FDIC insurance expense increased $24.2 million from $5.1 million in 2008 to $29.3 million in 2009. The FDIC increased the assessment rate on insured deposits in 2009 and instituted a special assessment as the cost of bank failures depleted the DIF.

 

INCOME TAXES

 

During 2009, BancShares recorded income tax expense of $66.8 million, compared to $48.5 million during 2008 and $58.9 million in 2007. BancShares’ effective tax rate equaled 36.5 percent in 2009, 34.8 percent in 2008 and 35.2 percent in 2007.

 

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Table 11

ANALYSIS OF CAPITAL ADEQUACY

 

     December 31     Regulatory
Minimum
 
     2009     2008     2007    
     (dollars in thousands)  

First Citizens BancShares, Inc.

        

Tier 1 capital

   $ 1,752,384      $ 1,649,675      $ 1,557,190     

Tier 2 capital

     295,300        286,318        279,573     
                          

Total capital

   $ 2,047,684      $ 1,935,993      $ 1,836,763     
                          

Risk-adjusted assets

   $ 13,136,815      $ 12,499,545      $ 11,961,124     

Risk-based capital ratios

        

Tier 1 capital

     13.34     13.20     13.02   4.00

Total capital

     15.59     15.49     15.36   8.00

Tier 1 leverage ratio

     9.54     9.88     9.63   3.00

First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company

        

Tier 1 capital

   $ 1,349,972      $ 1,262,950      $ 1,188,599     

Tier 2 capital

     259,416        250,095        244,470     
                          

Total capital

   $ 1,609,388      $ 1,513,045      $ 1,433,069     
                          

Risk-adjusted assets

   $ 11,501,548      $ 10,006,171      $ 9,716,423     

Risk-based capital ratios

        

Tier 1 capital

     11.74     12.62     12.23   4.00

Total capital

     13.99     15.12     14.75   8.00

Tier 1 leverage ratio

     8.63     9.17     8.81   3.00

IronStone Bank

        

Tier 1 capital

   $ 291,897      $ 273,637      $ 261,500     

Tier 2 capital

     42,496        38,250        24,801     
                          

Total capital

   $ 334,393      $ 311,887      $ 286,301     
                          

Risk-adjusted assets

   $ 2,370,704      $ 2,369,415      $ 2,190,348     

Risk-based capital ratios

        

Tier 1 capital

     12.31     11.55     11.94   4.00

Total capital

     14.11     13.16     13.07   8.00

Tangible equity ratio

     11.35     10.71     11.21   3.00

 

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

We continually monitor the capital levels and ratios for BancShares and the subsidiary banks to ensure that they comfortably exceed the minimum requirements imposed by their respective regulatory authorities and to ensure that the subsidiary banks’ capital is appropriate given each bank’s growth projection and risk profile. Failure to meet certain capital requirements may result in actions by regulatory agencies that could have a material effect on the financial statements. Table 11 provides information on capital adequacy for BancShares, FCB and ISB as of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007.

 

BancShares continues to exceed minimum capital standards and the banking subsidiaries remain well-capitalized. The sustained growth of ISB has required BancShares to infuse significant amounts of capital into ISB to support its balance sheet growth. Infusions totaled $40.5 million in 2009, $45.8 million in 2008 and $24.0 million in 2007. Since ISB was formed in 1997, BancShares has provided $390.3 million in capital. BancShares’ prospective capacity to provide capital to support the future growth of ISB is highly dependent upon FCB’s ability to return capital through dividends to BancShares.

 

Dividends from FCB to BancShares provide the sole source for capital infusions into ISB. These dividends also fund BancShares’ payment of shareholder dividends and interest payments on a portion of its long-term obligations. During

 

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2009, FCB declared dividends to BancShares in the amount of $60.5 million, compared to $54.8 million in 2008 and $43.8 million in 2007. At December 31, 2009, based on limitations imposed by North Carolina General Statutes, FCB had the ability to declare dividends totaling $1.12 billion. However, any dividends declared in excess of $459.2 million would have caused FCB to lose its well-capitalized designation.

 

RISK MANAGEMENT

 

In the normal course of business, BancShares is exposed to various risks. To manage the major risks that are inherent in the operation of a financial holding company and to provide reasonable assurance that our long-term business objectives will be attained, various policies and risk management processes identify, monitor and manage risk within acceptable tolerances. Management continually refines and enhances its risk management policies and procedures to maintain effective risk management programs and processes.

 

Our most prominent risk exposures are credit, interest rate and liquidity risk. Credit risk is the risk of not collecting the amount of a loan, lease or investment when it is contractually due. Interest rate risk is the potential reduction of net interest income as a result of changes in market interest rates. Liquidity risk is the possible inability to fund obligations to depositors, creditors, investors or borrowers.

 

Credit Risk

 

BancShares manages and monitors extensions of credit and the quality of the loan and lease portfolio through rigorous initial underwriting processes and periodic ongoing reviews. Underwriting standards reflect credit policies and procedures administered through our centralized credit decision process. We maintain an independent credit review function that conducts risk reviews and analyses for the purpose of ensuring compliance with credit policies and to closely monitor asset quality trends. The risk reviews include portfolio analysis by geographic location and horizontal reviews across industry and collateral sectors within the banking subsidiaries. We strive to identify potential credit problems as early as possible, to take charge-offs or writedowns as appropriate and to maintain adequate allowances for loan and lease losses that are inherent in the loan and lease portfolio. The maintenance of excellent asset quality is one of our key performance measures.

 

We maintain a well-diversified loan and lease portfolio and seek to avoid the risk associated with large concentrations within specific geographic areas or industries. The ongoing expansion of our branch network has allowed us to mitigate our historic exposure to geographic risk concentration in North Carolina and Virginia. Despite our focus on diversification, several characteristics of our loan and lease portfolio subject us to notable risk. These include our concentration of real estate loans, medical-related loans, and the existence of high loan-to-value loans.

 

We have historically carried a significant concentration of real estate secured loans, although our underwriting policies principally rely on adequate borrower cash flow rather than underlying collateral values. When we do rely on underlying real property values, we favor financing secured by owner-occupied real property and, as a result, a large percentage of our real estate secured loans are owner-occupied. At December 31, 2009, loans secured by real estate not covered by loss share agreements totaled $8.34 billion or 71.7 percent of total loans not covered by loss share agreements compared to $8.08 billion or 69.3 percent at December 31, 2008.

 

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Table 12

NONPERFORMING ASSETS

 

    December 31,
    2009     2008   2007   2006   2005
    (thousands, except ratios)

Nonaccrual loans and leases:

         

Covered under FDIC loss share agreements

  $ 116,446      $ —     $ —     $ —     $ —  

Not covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    58,417        39,361     13,021     14,882     18,969

Other real estate owned:

         

Covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    93,774        —       —       —       —  

Not covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    40,607        29,956     6,893     6,028     6,753

Restructured loans:

         

Covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    10,013        —       —       —       —  

Not covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    55,025        2,349     —       —       —  
                               

Total nonperforming assets

  $ 374,282      $ 71,666   $ 19,914   $ 20,910   $ 25,722
                               

Nonperforming assets covered under FDIC loss share agreements

  $ 220,233      $ —     $ —     $ —     $ —  

Nonperforming assets not covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    154,049        71,666     19,914     20,910     25,722
                               

Total nonperforming assets

  $ 374,282      $ 71,666   $ 19,914   $ 20,910   $ 25,722
                               

Accruing loans and leases 90 days or more past due

  $ 27,766      $ 22,459   $ 7,124   $ 5,185   $ 9,180

Loans and leases at December 31:

         

Covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    1,173,020        —       —       —       —  

Not covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    11,644,999        11,649,886     10,963,904     10,273,043     9,656,230

Ratio of nonperforming assets to total loans, leases and other real estate:

         

Covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    17.39     —       —       —       —  

Not covered under FDIC loss share agreements

    1.32        0.61     0.18     0.20     0.27

Total

    2.89        0.61     0.18     0.20     0.27
                               

Interest income that would have been earned on nonperforming loans and leases had they been performing

  $ 4,172      $ 1,275   $ 1,200   $ 1,271   $ 551

Interest income earned on nonperforming loans and leases

    3,746        797     465     226     821
                               

 

There were no foreign loans or leases outstanding in any period.

 

In recent years, we have sought opportunities to provide financial services to businesses associated with and professionals within the medical community. Due to strong loan growth within this industry, noncovered loans to borrowers in medical, dental or related fields totaled $2.93 billion as of December 31, 2009 and $2.74 billion as of December 31, 2008, representing 25.1 percent and 23.5 percent of noncovered loans and leases as of the respective dates. Except for this single concentration, no other industry represented more than 10 percent of noncovered loans and leases outstanding at December 31, 2009.

 

In addition to geographic and industry concentrations, we monitor our loan and lease portfolio for other risk characteristics. Among the key indicators of credit risk are loan-to-value ratios, which measure a lender’s exposure as compared to the value of the underlying collateral. Regulatory agencies have established guidelines that define high loan-to-value loans as those real estate loans that exceed 65 percent to 85 percent of the collateral value depending upon the type of collateral. At December 31, 2009, we had $758.3 million or 6.5 percent of noncovered loans and leases that exceeded the loan-to-value ratio guidelines compared to $919.2 million or 7.8 percent at December 31, 2008. While we continuously strive to limit our high loan-to-value loans, we believe that the inherent risk within these loans is lessened by mitigating factors, such as our strict underwriting criteria and the high rate of owner-occupied properties.

 

Residential construction loans in the Atlanta, Georgia and southwest Florida markets as of December 31, 2009 equaled $67.8 million, compared to $128.8 million at December 31, 2008. As of December 31, 2009, $22.2 million of the

 

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residential construction loans were classified as nonperforming, and $32.0 million were identified as potential problem loans due to concerns about borrowers’ abilities to comply with existing loan repayment terms. We continue to closely monitor past due and problem accounts to identify any loans and leases that should be classified as impaired or non-accrual.

 

Nonperforming assets include nonaccrual loans and leases, other real estate and restructured loans. With the exception of certain residential mortgage loans, the accrual of interest on loans and leases is discontinued when we deem that collection of additional principal or interest is doubtful. Loans and leases are returned to accrual status when both principal and interest are current and the asset is determined to be performing in accordance with the terms of the loan instrument. The accrual of interest on certain residential mortgage loans is discontinued when a loan is more than three monthly payments past due, and the accrual of interest resumes when the loan is less than three monthly payments past due. Other real estate includes foreclosed property, branch facilities that we have closed but not sold and land that we have elected to sell that was originally acquired for future branches. Restructured loans include accruing loans that we have modified in order to enable a financially-distressed borrower an opportunity to continue making payments under terms more favorable than we would normally extend. Nonperforming asset balances for the past five years are presented in Table 12.

 

BancShares’ nonperforming assets at December 31, 2009 totaled $374.3 million, compared to $71.7 million at December 31, 2008 and $19.9 million at December 31, 2007. As a percentage of total loans, leases and other real estate, nonperforming assets represented 2.92 percent, 0.61 percent and 0.18 percent as of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

The $302.6 million surge in nonperforming assets during 2009 was primarily due to the effect of high levels of nonperforming assets within the 2009 Acquisitions. Of the $374.3 million in nonperforming assets, $220.2 million are covered under FDIC loss share agreements that provide significant loss protection to FCB. We continue to closely monitor past due and problem accounts to identify any loans and leases that should be classified as impaired or nonaccrual.

 

Nonperforming assets not covered under loss share agreements totaled $154.0 million at December 31, 2009, compared to $71.7 million at December 31, 2008 and $19.9 million at December 31, 2007. The $82.4 million increase during 2009 resulted from a higher volume of restructured loans. The $51.8 million increase during 2008 primarily resulted from exposures in the residential construction portfolio in the Atlanta, Georgia and southwest Florida markets. The 2009 increase in nonperforming assets not covered under loss share agreements included increases of $19.1 million in nonaccrual loans and leases, $10.7 million in other real estate owned and $52.7 million in restructured loans. The 2009 increase in restructured loans resulted from modifications made to performing loans to support borrowers who were at risk of defaulting on their loan repayment obligations.

 

Accruing loans more than 90 days past due totaled $27.8 million at December 31, 2009 compared to $22.5 million at December 31, 2008. These are primarily secured retail loans that are in process of collection.

 

The allowance for loan and lease losses reflects the estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. In calculating the allowance, we employ a variety of modeling and estimation tools for measuring credit risk. Generally, loans and leases to commercial customers are evaluated individually and assigned a credit grade, while consumer loans are evaluated collectively. The individual credit grades for commercial loans are assigned based upon factors such as the borrower’s cash flow, the value of any underlying collateral and the strength of any guarantee. Relying on historical data of credit grade losses and migration patterns among credit grades, we calculate a loss estimate for each credit grade. As loans to borrowers experiencing financial stress are moved to higher-risk credit grades, increased allowances are assigned to that exposure. Allowances are recorded for acquired loans for post-acquisition credit quality deterioration only.

 

Groups of consumer loans are aggregated over their remaining estimated behavioral lives and probable loss projections for each period become the basis for the allowance amount. The loss projections are based on historical losses, delinquency patterns and various other credit risk indicators. During 2009, based on deepening economic weaknesses indicated by higher unemployment and personal bankruptcy rates, we increased loss estimates for consumer loans and revolving mortgage loans.

 

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When needed, we also establish specific allowances for impaired loans. Commercial purpose loans are considered to be impaired if they are classified as nonaccrual. The allowance for impaired loans in excess of $1.0 million is the difference between its carrying value and the estimated collateral value or the present value of anticipated cash flows. Collateral values are obtained from current appraisals, if available, or prior appraisal values that have been discounted due to the age of the appraisal. For smaller impaired loans, the allowance is calculated based on the credit grade.

 

The allowance for loan and lease losses also includes an amount that is not specifically allocated to individual loan types. This unallocated allowance is based upon factors such as changes in business and economic conditions, recent loss, delinquency and asset quality issues both within BancShares and the banking industry, exposures resulting from loan concentrations or specific industry risks and other judgmental factors. As of December 31, 2009, the unallocated portion of the allowance equaled $12.1 million or 7.0 percent. This compares to $11.7 million or 7.4 percent of the total allowance for credit losses as of December 31, 2008.

 

At December 31, 2009, BancShares’ allowance for loan and lease losses on noncovered loans totaled $168.8 million or 1.45 percent of loans and leases not covered by loss share agreements, compared to $157.6 million or 1.35 percent at December 31, 2008. An additional allowance of $3.5 million was established in 2009 for loans covered by loss share agreements acquired from TVB, which represents 0.30 percent of total loans and leases covered by loss share agreements. This $3.5 million was established due to adjustments in estimates suggesting a deterioration in credit quality for certain identified loans that occurred after the date of the acquisition. The $11.2 million increase in the allowance for non-covered loan and lease losses during 2009 was primarily due to deterioration of credit quality within the noncovered commercial loan sectors as well as higher anticipated losses in the residential construction and revolving mortgage loan portfolios.

 

The provision for loan and lease losses equaled $79.4 million during 2009 compared to $65.9 million during 2008 and $32.9 million during 2007. The $13.4 million or 20.4 percent increase in provision for loan and lease losses from 2008 to 2009 resulted primarily from losses and provisions in the commercial, residential construction loan portfolio and certain consumer loan portfolios.

 

Net charge-offs for 2009 totaled $64.7 million, compared to $45.3 million during 2008, and $28.0 million during 2007. The ratio of net charge-offs to average loans and leases not covered by loss share agreements equaled 0.56 percent during 2009, 0.40 percent during 2008 and 0.27 percent during 2007. Despite the increase in the 2009 loss ratio, BancShares’ net charge-off rates remain low when compared to industry data.

 

Table 13 provides details concerning the allowance for loan and lease losses for the past five years. Table 14 details the allocation of the allowance for loan and lease losses among the various loan types. The process used to allocate the allowance considers, among other factors, whether the borrower is a retail or commercial customer, whether the loan is secured or unsecured, and whether the loan is an open or closed-end agreement.

 

Changes to the allocation of the allowance for loan and lease losses reflect changes in the mix of the loan portfolio and expectations regarding changes in loss exposure. Although construction and land development loans represent 7.2 percent of total loans at December 31, 2009, compared to 6.6 percent at December 31, 2008, noncovered loans actually declined due to charge-offs, foreclosures and payments during 2009, resulting in a reduction in the allowances allocated to that portfolio segment. Conversely, noncovered commercial mortgage and revolving mortgage loans increased, resulting in an increase in the allowance allocated to those categories. The percentage of consumer loans to total loans continues to decline, but higher loss projections as of December 31, 2009 contributed to an increase in the allowance allocated.

 

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Table 13

ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES

 

    2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
    (thousands, except ratios)  

Allowance for loan and lease losses at beginning of period

  $ 157,569      $ 136,974      $ 132,004      $ 128,847      $ 123,861   

Adjustment for sale of loans

    —          —          —          —          (1,585

Provision for loan and lease losses

    79,364        65,926        32,939        21,203        33,562   

Charge-offs:

         

Real estate:

         

Construction and land development

    (17,606     (17,559     (1,683     —          (1

Commercial mortgage

    (2,081     (696     (49     (124     (551

Residential mortgage

    (1,966     (1,165     (194     (1,717     (1,912

Revolving mortgage

    (8,390     (3,249     (1,363     (1,475     (951

Other mortgage loans

    (173     —          —          —          —     
                                       

Total real estate loans

    (30,216     (22,669     (3,289     (3,316     (3,415

Commercial and industrial

    (17,114     (13,593     (13,106     (10,378     (18,724

Consumer

    (20,288     (12,695     (13,203     (9,171     (10,425

Lease financing

    (1,736     (1,124     (3,092     (1,488     (347
                                       

Total charge-offs

    (69,354     (50,081     (32,690     (24,353     (32,911
                                       

Recoveries:

         

Real estate:

         

Construction and land development

    517        227        21        —          —     

Commercial mortgage

    96        55        8        182        409   

Residential mortgage

    97        121        261        290        432   

Revolving mortgage

    182        215        96        182        155   
                                       

Total real estate loans

    892        618        386        654        996   

Commercial and industrial

    1,384        1,645        1,282        1,358        2,164   

Consumer

    2,305        2,173        2,883        4,140        2,672   

Lease financing

    122        314        170        155        88   
                                       

Total recoveries

    4,703        4,750        4,721        6,307        5,920   
                                       

Net charge-offs

    (64,651     (45,331     (27,969     (18,046     (26,991
                                       

Allowance for loan and lease losses at end of period

  $ 172,282      $ 157,569      $ 136,974      $ 132,004      $ 128,847   
                                       

Average loans and leases not covered by loss share agreements

  $ 11,635,355      $ 11,306,900      $ 10,513,599      $ 9,989,757      $ 9,375,249   

Loans and leases covered under loss share agreements at year-end

    1,173,020        —          —          —          —     

Loans and leases not covered under loss share agreements at year-end

    11,644,999        11,649,886        10,963,904        10,273,043        9,656,230   

Reserve for unfunded commitments

    7,130        7,176        7,297        6,642        6,923   

Ratios:

         

Net charge-offs to average noncovered loans and leases

    0.56     0.40     0.27     0.18     0.29

Allowance for loan and lease losses to total loans and leases

         

Covered under loss share agreements at end of period

    0.30        —          —          —          —     

Not covered under loss share agreements at end of period

    1.45        1.35        1.25        1.28        1.33   

 

All information presented in this table relates to domestic loans and leases as BancShares makes no foreign loans and leases.

 

Allowance for loan and lease losses at December 31, 2009 includes $3,500 established for Covered Loans.

 

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Table 14

ALLOCATION OF ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES

 

    December 31  
    2009     2008     2007     2006     2005  
    Allowance
for loan
and lease
losses
  Percent
of loans
to total
loans
    Allowance
for loan
and lease
losses
  Percent
of loans
to total
loans
    Allowance
for loan
and lease
losses
  Percent
of loans
to total
loans
    Allowance
for loan
and lease
losses
  Percent
of loans
to total
loans
    Allowance
for loan
and lease
losses
  Percent
of loans
to total
loans
 
    (dollars in thousands)  

Allowance for loan and lease losses allocated to:

                   

Real estate:

                   

Construction and land development

  $ 10,121   7.24   $ 13,948   6.64   $ 9,918   7.40   $ 9,351   7.63   $ 8,985   7.94

Commercial mortgage

    54,250   40.13        43,222   37.06        35,760   36.31        38,463   36.27        37,185   36.44   

Residential mortgage

    8,213   7.93        8,006   8.23        7,011   9.39        6,954   9.98        6,822   10.53   

Revolving mortgage

    8,389   16.75        6,821   16.31        5,735   13.63        8,425   12.91        8,712   14.17   

Other mortgage

    5,366   1.40        5,231   1.28        2,323   1.33        2,145   1.61        2,242   1.79   
                                                           

Total real estate

    86,339   73.45        77,228   69.52        60,747   68.06        65,338   68.40        63,946   70.87   

Commercial and industrial

    39,059   15.05        35,896   16.09        32,743   15.57        34,846   14.86        30,663   12.50   

Consumer

    28,944   7.38        27,045   10.52        26,925   12.48        22,396   13.24        22,695   13.66   

Lease financing

    4,535   2.58        5,091   3.02        4,649   3.11        3,562   2.87        2,389   2.42   

Other

    1,333   1.54        632   0.85        412   0.78        723   0.63        576   0.55   

Unallocated

    12,072       11,677       11,498       5,139       8,578  
                                                           

Total allowance for loan and lease losses

  $ 172,282   100.00   $ 157,569   100.00   $ 136,974   100.00   $ 132,004   100.00   $ 128,847   100.00
                                                           

Allowance for loan and lease losses for:

                   

Loans covered under loss share agreements

  $ 3,500     $ —       $ —       $ —       $ —    

Loans not covered under loss share agreement

    168,782       157,569       136,974       132,004       128,847  
                                       

Total allowance for loan and lease losses

  $ 172,282     $ 157,569     $ 136,974     $ 132,004     $ 128,847  
                                       

 

Table 15

INTEREST RATE RISK ANALYSIS

 

     Favorable (unfavorable) impact
on net interest income compared
to stable rate scenario over the
12-month period following:
 

Assumed rate change

   December 31,
2009
    December 31,
2008
 

Most likely

   -0.05   -0.37

Immediate 200 basis point increase

   4.00   2.06

Gradual 200 basis point increase

   0.83   0.19

Immediate 200 basis point decrease

   -6.25   -0.58

Gradual 200 basis point decrease

   -1.20   1.29

 

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Interest Rate Risk

 

Interest rate risk results principally from assets and liabilities maturing or repricing at different points in time, from assets and liabilities repricing at the same point in time but in different amounts and from short-term and long-term interest rates changing in different magnitudes, an event frequently described by the resulting impact on the shape of the yield curve. Market interest rates also have an impact on the interest rate and repricing characteristics of loans and leases that are originated as well as the rate characteristics of our interest-bearing liabilities.

 

We assess our interest rate risk by simulating future amounts of net interest income using various interest rate scenarios and comparing those results to forecasted net interest income assuming stable rates. Due to the existence of contractual floors or competitive pressures that constrain our ability to reduce interest rates, certain deposit and short-term borrowings can price down only marginally from current interest rate levels. In our models, we assume that the prime interest rate will not move below the December 31, 2009 rate of 3.25 percent. Table 15 provides the impact on net interest income resulting from various interest rate scenarios as of December 31, 2009 and 2008.

 

We also utilize the market value of equity as a tool to measure and manage interest rate risk. The market value of equity measures the degree to which the market values of our assets and liabilities will change given a specific degree of movement in interest rates. Our calculation methodology for the market value of equity utilizes a 200-basis point parallel rate shock. As of December 31, 2009, the market value of equity calculated with a 200-basis point immediate decrease in interest rates equals 9.54 percent of assets, up from 8.81 percent when calculated with stable rates. The market value of equity calculated with a 200-basis point immediate increase in interest rates equals 7.58 percent of assets. The estimated amounts for the market value of equity are highly influenced by the relatively longer maturity of the commercial loan component of interest-earning assets when compared to the shorter term maturity characteristics of interest-bearing liabilities.

 

The maturity distribution and repricing opportunities of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have a significant impact on our interest rate risk. Our strategy is to reduce overall interest rate risk by maintaining relatively short maturities. Table 16 provides loan maturity distribution and information regarding the sensitivity of loans and leases to changes in interest rates. Table 4 includes maturity information for our investment securities. Table 6 displays maturity information for time deposits with balances in excess of $100,000.

 

We do not typically utilize interest rate swaps, floors, collars or other derivative financial instruments to attempt to hedge our overall balance sheet rate sensitivity and interest rate risk. However, during the second quarter of 2006, in conjunction with the issuance of $115.0 million in junior subordinated debentures, we entered into an interest rate swap to synthetically convert the variable rate coupon on the debentures to a fixed rate of 7.125 percent for a period of five years. The interest rate swap is effective from June 2006 to June 2011. During 2009, we entered into a second interest rate swap covering the period from June 2011 to June 2016 at a fixed interest rate of 5.50 percent. Both of the interest rate swaps qualify as cash flow hedges under US GAAP. The derivatives are valued each quarter, and changes in fair value are recorded on the consolidated balance sheet with an offset to other comprehensive income for the effective portion and an offset to the consolidated statements of income for any ineffective portion. The determination of effectiveness is made under the long-haul method.

 

Liquidity Risk

 

Liquidity risk results from the mismatching of asset and liability cash flows and the potential inability to secure adequate amounts of funding from traditional sources of liquidity. BancShares manages this risk by structuring its balance sheet prudently and by maintaining various borrowing resources to fund potential cash needs. BancShares has historically maintained a strong focus on liquidity, and we have traditionally relied on our deposit base as our primary liquidity source. Short-term borrowings resulting from commercial treasury customers are also an important source of liquidity, although most of those borrowings must be collateralized, thereby potentially restricting the use of the resulting liquidity. Through our deposit and treasury product pricing strategies, we have the ability to stimulate or curtail liability growth.

 

During 2009, economic conditions created significant disruptions to the normal availability of liquidity to lenders, a trend that was amplified in some institutions by deposit withdrawals. Despite these challenges, we achieved growth in average deposits of 11.2 percent in 2009, compared to 3.5 percent during 2008 and 1.7 percent during 2007. Although the deposits resulting from the 2009 Acquisitions contributed to our deposit growth, we also experienced strong organic

 

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growth attributed to consumers’ attraction to the safety and financial strength of our company. This growth in deposits occurred despite extraordinarily low interest rates. Low interest rates did significantly impact the balances of short-term borrowings during 2009 with our treasury services sweep balances experiencing a $484.8 million reduction.

 

Trends in cash flows after the effective dates of the 2009 Acquisitions created additional pressures on our liquidity during 2009 and will require us to generate incremental liquidity in 2010. These pressures are a function of relatively modest cash receipts arising from payments on covered loans and the FDIC receivable for loss share agreements versus the level of deposit outflows. The deposit outflows are driven by the high levels of wholesale and other non-core funding sources typically utilized by failing institutions, a large portion of which typically are withdrawn from the acquiring institution subsequent to the acquisition date. The incremental liquidity to fund our acquisitions will be primarily generated outside of the failed bank markets through new core deposits within the legacy FCB franchise, augmented as needed by brokered deposits and FHLB borrowings.

 

We routinely utilize borrowings from the FHLB of Atlanta as an alternative source of liquidity. At December 31, 2009, we had sufficient collateral pledged to provide access to $1.08 billion of additional borrowings. Additionally, we maintain federal funds lines of credit and other borrowing facilities. At December 31, 2009, BancShares had access to $500.0 million in unfunded borrowings through its various sources.

 

Once we have satisfied our loan demand and other funding needs, residual liquidity is held in cash or invested in overnight investment and investment securities available for sale. At December 31, 2009, these highly-liquid assets totaled $4.13 billion or 22.4 percent, compared to $3.99 billion or 23.8 percent of total assets at December 31, 2008.

 

Table 16

LOAN MATURITY DISTRIBUTION AND INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY

 

     At December 31, 2009, maturing
     Within
One Year
   One to Five
Years
   After
Five Years
   Total
     (thousands)

Loans covered under loss share agreements

   $ 333,538    $ 476,866    $ 362,616    $ 1,173,020

Loans and leases not covered under loss share agreements

           

Real estate

     2,355,541      4,116,348      1,872,657      8,344,546

Commercial and industrial

     475,501      756,136      601,033      1,832,670

Other

     424,717      879,928      163,138      1,467,783
                           

Total not covered under loss share agreements

   $ 3,255,759    $ 5,752,412    $ 2,636,828    $ 11,644,999
                           

Loans maturing after one year with:

           

Fixed interest rates

      $ 3,235,989    $ 2,292,265    $ 5,528,254

Floating or adjustable rates

        2,516,423      344,563      2,860,986
                       

Total

      $ 5,752,412    $ 2,636,828    $ 8,389,240
                       

 

SEGMENT REPORTING

 

BancShares conducts its banking operations through its two wholly owned subsidiaries, FCB and ISB. Although FCB and ISB offer similar products and services to customers, each entity operates in distinct geographic markets and has separate management groups, with the exception of California and Washington where both now operate as a result of the 2009 Acquisitions. We monitor growth and financial results in these institutions separately and, within each institution, by further geographic segregation.

 

Although FCB has grown through acquisition in certain of its markets, specifically in the states of California and Washington, throughout its history the majority of its expansion has been accomplished on a de novo basis. Since ISB began operations in 1997, it has accomplished its growth and expansion on a de novo basis. Due to the rapid pace of its growth and the number of branch offices that have not attained sufficient size to achieve profitability, the financial results and trends of ISB are significantly affected by the large percentage of markets that are relatively new. Each new market ISB entered created additional operating costs that were typically not fully offset by operating revenues until three to four years of operation. Losses incurred since ISB’s inception total $84.9 million.

 

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Neuse, Incorporated, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BancShares, owns facilities used by ISB for its branch operation and other real estate resulting from ISB loans that have resulted in foreclosure. To facilitate the potential purchase of additional OREO in the future, ISB has agreed to lend Neuse up to $15.0 million under a revolving line of credit. No amount was owed by Neuse to ISB as of December 31, 2009 under the revolving line of credit.

 

IronStone Bank

 

At December 31, 2009, ISB operated 58 facilities in twelve states, with a focus on markets with favorable growth prospects. ISB’s expansion slowed during 2009, following the opening of facilities in Dallas and Houston, Texas and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. No new branches are planned for 2010. Our business model for new markets that we have entered is based on two principles. First, we hire experienced bankers in the established markets who are focused on delivering high quality customer service while maintaining strong asset quality. Second, we occupy attractive and accessible branch facilities. While these are costly goals, we believe they are critical to establishing a solid foundation for future success in new markets.

 

ISB’s total assets increased 0.4 percent from $2.56 billion at December 31, 2008 to $2.57 billion at December 31, 2009. ISB’s total assets represented 13.9 percent of consolidated assets at December 31, 2009 compared to 15.3 percent at December 31, 2008.

 

ISB recorded a net loss of $21.3 million during 2009 compared to a net loss of $28.9 million during 2008 and net loss of $7.7 million in 2007. The $7.6 million improvement in the net loss resulted from higher net interest income and lower provision for loan and lease losses. While ISB’s operating losses are expected to continue into 2010, we believe improved results in more established markets and lower credit costs will help to significantly reduce the overall loss.

 

ISB’s net interest income increased $11.6 million or 17.2 percent during 2009 due to an improved net yield on interest-earning assets, which increased from 2.82 percent in 2008 to 3.26 in 2009. Loans and leases decreased $25.8 million or 1.2 percent from $2.22 billion at December 31, 2008 to $2.20 billion at December 31, 2009.

 

The provision for loan and lease losses decreased $2.2 million during 2009, caused by the loan portfolio reduction and lower allowances required by credit grade reductions. Net charge-offs amounted to $29.6 million during 2009, compared to $23.1 million in 2008.

 

ISB’s noninterest income grew $1.1 million or 8.6 percent during 2009, the result of higher cardholder and merchant services income and mortgage income. Cardholder and merchant services income increased $517,000 or 6.9 percent as merchant discount and Visa Check interchange fees increased. Mortgage income saw better results with income growing $579,000 during 2009 with improvements in servicing income and loan origination fees.

 

Noninterest expense increased $3.7 million or 4.2 percent during 2009, the result of an increase in FDIC insurance premiums and foreclosure-related expenses. The FDIC insurance premium expense increased $2.8 million or 161.5 percent as the FDIC continues its efforts to recapitalize the insurance fund. Costs related to the maintenance, writedown and sale of foreclosed properties increased $3.7 million from $2.9 million in 2008 to $6.6 million in 2009 primarily due to the resolution of construction exposures. Salary and employee benefits declined in 2009 by $1.3 million or 3.3 percent as a result of branch closures and other expense reduction initiatives.

 

First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company

 

At December 31, 2009, FCB operated 373 branches in eight states. During 2009, FCB opened ten new branches, including branches in Washington, DC, Richmond, Virginia, Raleigh and Charlotte, North Carolina and in several rural and coastal areas of North Carolina. The 2009 Acquisitions added locations in southern California and Washington state.

 

FCB’s total assets increased from $13.88 billion at December 31, 2008 to $15.79 billion at December 31, 2009, an increase of $1.91 billion or 13.8 percent, caused primarily by the 2009 Acquisitions. FCB’s total assets represented 85.5 percent and 82.9 percent of consolidated assets at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

FCB recorded net income of $150.8 million during 2009 compared to $127.1 million during 2008, an increase of $23.7 million or 18.7 percent. The favorable variance in net income is attributable to gains recognized on the 2009 Acquisitions and improved net interest income, partially offset by higher noninterest expense and provision for loan and lease losses.

 

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FCB’s net interest income increased $8.3 million or 1.9 percent during 2009 despite a decline in the net yield on interest-earning assets. Total FCB loans increased $1.19 billion in 2009 from $9.43 billion to $10.62 billion. Provision for loan and lease losses increased $15.7 million or 52.7 percent during 2009 caused by higher net charge-offs on consumer loans and credit grade deterioration within the commercial loan portfolio. Net charge-offs increased $12.8 million or 57.5 percent from $22.2 million in 2008 to $35.0 million in 2009.

 

FCB’s noninterest income increased $95.9 million or 30.8 percent during 2009, due to gains recorded on the 2009 Acquisitions and the sale of the bond trustee business. Other components of noninterest income with increases during 2009 were fees from processing services and mortgage income. Fees from wealth advisory services, deposit service charge income and cardholder and merchant services income were all lower for the year, primarily due to lower volumes. Noninterest expense increased $46.8 million or 8.9 percent during 2009, due to a $21.5 million increase in FDIC insurance premium expense, a $7.6 million increase in foreclosure-related expenses, a $7.3 million increase in salary expense and a $4.9 million increase in occupancy costs. Noninterest expenses related to the 2009 Acquisitions accounted for approximately $20.3 million of the 2009 increase.

 

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Table 17

SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA

 

    2009     2008  
    Fourth
Quarter
    Third
Quarter
    Second
Quarter
    First
Quarter
    Fourth
Quarter
    Third
Quarter
    Second
Quarter
    First
Quarter
 
    (thousands, except share data and ratios)  

SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS

               

Interest income

  $ 191,976      $ 189,690      $ 176,841      $ 179,652      $ 195,366      $ 199,080      $ 202,000      $ 216,905   

Interest expense

    49,575        54,413        59,809        63,847        71,211        71,761        77,147        94,826   
                                                               

Net interest income

    142,401        135,277        117,032        115,805        124,155        127,319        124,853        122,079   

Provision for loan and lease losses

    21,617        18,265        20,759        18,723        22,640        20,008        13,363        9,915   
                                                               

Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses

    120,784        117,012        96,273        97,082        101,515        107,311        111,490        112,164   

Noninterest income

    82,264        182,631        73,164        71,541        72,182        77,536        79,600        84,166   

Noninterest expense

    174,165        166,277        160,868        156,342        155,302        155,746        149,468        145,844   
                                                               

Income before income taxes

    28,883        133,366        8,569        12,281        18,395        29,101        41,622        50,486   

Income taxes

    9,883        50,898        2,369        3,618        5,502        9,547        15,396        18,101   
                                                               

Net income

  $ 19,000      $ 82,468      $ 6,200      $ 8,663      $ 12,893      $ 19,554      $ 26,226      $ 32,385   
                                                               

Net interest income, taxable equivalent

  $ 143,446      $ 136,426      $ 118,350      $ 117,225      $ 125,779      $ 129,164      $ 127,143      $ 124,430   
                                                               

PER SHARE DATA

               

Net income

  $ 1.82      $ 7.90      $ 0.59      $ 0.83      $ 1.24      $ 1.87      $ 2.51      $ 3.10   

Cash dividends

    0.300        0.300        0.300        0.300        0.275        0.275        0.275        0.275   

Market price at period end (Class A)

    164.01        159.10        133.65        131.80        152.80        179.00        139.49        139.35   

Book value at period end

    149.42        145.16        137.45        137.65        138.33        144.17        142.54        142.42   

Tangible book value at period end

    138.98        134.66        127.32        127.48        128.13        133.92        132.24        132.07   

SELECTED QUARTERLY AVERAGE BALANCES

               

Total assets

  $ 18,386,775      $ 17,892,599      $ 17,309,656      $ 16,945,383      $ 16,741,696      $ 16,377,570      $ 16,396,288      $ 16,302,994   

Investment securities

    3,134,971        3,596,422        3,578,604        3,246,898        3,147,386        2,998,370        3,238,028        3,183,636   

Loans and leases

    12,877,150        12,078,390        11,621,450        11,659,873        11,665,522        11,440,563        11,154,400        10,961,706   

Interest-earning assets

    16,319,611        15,862,964        15,725,319        15,373,383        15,247,125        14,814,463        14,841,431        14,691,141   

Deposits

    15,291,720        14,792,449        14,316,103        13,897,701        13,544,762        13,003,821        12,969,423        12,905,651   

Interest-bearing liabilities

    13,467,532        13,137,412        12,840,612        12,596,452        12,471,757        12,187,085        12,281,649        12,309,132   

Long-term obligations

    795,646        810,049        734,042        733,087        730,360        613,046        609,301        475,732   

Shareholders' equity

    1,535,828        1,457,599        1,433,427        1,438,109        1,497,619        1,496,573        1,484,143        1,466,411   

Shares outstanding

    10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453   
                                                               

SELECTED QUARTER-END BALANCES

               

Total assets

  $ 18,466,063      $ 18,512,878      $ 17,317,880      $ 17,214,265      $ 16,745,662      $ 16,665,605      $ 16,422,674      $ 16,746,518   

Investment securities

    2,932,765        3,287,309        3,749,525        3,324,770        3,225,194        2,977,565        3,013,432        3,206,137   

Loans and leases:

               

Covered under loss share agreements

    1,173,020        1,257,478        —          —          —          —          —          —     

Not covered under loss share agreements

    11,644,999        11,520,683        11,638,965        11,497,079        11,649,886        11,627,635        11,313,155        11,029,937   

Interest-earning assets

    16,541,425        16,389,427        15,618,157        15,582,477        15,119,095        14,933,906        14,722,037        15,039,574   

Deposits

    15,337,567        15,348,955        14,358,149        14,229,548        13,713,763        13,372,468        13,075,411        13,226,991   

Interest-bearing liabilities

    13,561,924        13,532,833        12,719,311        12,827,449        12,441,025        12,383,450        12,147,269        12,566,799   

Long-term obligations

    797,366        813,950        735,803        733,056        733,132        649,214        609,277        609,335   

Shareholders' equity

    1,559,115        1,514,684        1,434,213        1,436,277        1,443,375        1,504,334        1,487,282        1,486,034   

Shares outstanding

    10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453        10,434,453   
                                                               

SELECTED RATIOS AND OTHER DATA

               

Rate of return on average assets

    0.41     1.83     0.14     0.21     0.31     0.64     0.64     0.80

Rate of return on average shareholders' equity

    4.92        22.45        1.73        2.44        3.43        7.11        7.11        8.88   

Net yield on interest-earning assets (taxable equivalent)

    3.49        3.41        3.02        3.09        3.27        3.47        3.45        3.41   

Allowance for loan and lease losses to noncovered loans and leases at period end

    1.45        1.43        1.41        1.39        1.35        1.32        1.28        1.28   

Nonperforming assets to total loans and leases and other real estate at period end:

               

Covered under loss share agreements

    18.77        15.08        —          —          —          —          —          —     

Not covered under loss share agreements

    1.32        0.92        0.89        0.85        0.61        0.53        0.42        0.39   

Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio

    13.34        13.33        13.30        13.29        13.20        13.01        13.14        13.12   

Total risk-based capital ratio

    15.59        15.58        15.59        15.57        15.49        15.33        15.48        15.47   

Leverage capital ratio

    9.54        9.73        9.68        9.83        9.88        10.01        9.89        9.80   

Dividend payout ratio

    16.48        3.80        50.85        36.14        22.18        14.71        10.96        8.87   

Average loans and leases to average deposits

    84.21        81.65        81.18        83.90        86.13        87.98        86.01        84.94   
                                                               

 

Average loan and lease balances include nonaccrual loans and leases.

 

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FOURTH QUARTER ANALYSIS

 

For the quarter ending December 31, 2009, BancShares reported net income of $19.0 million, compared to $12.9 million for the corresponding period of 2008. Improved earnings during the fourth quarter 2009 resulted from significantly higher net interest income, improved noninterest income, and lower provision for loan and lease losses. Noninterest expense increased due to operating costs related to the 2009 Acquisitions, FDIC insurance premium expense and foreclosure-related expenses.

 

Per share income for the fourth quarter 2009 totaled $1.82, compared to $1.24 for the same period a year ago. First Citizens’ results generated an annualized return on average assets of 0.41 percent for the fourth quarter of 2009, compared to 0.31 percent for the fourth quarter of 2008. The annualized return on average equity was 4.92 percent during the current quarter, compared to 3.43 percent for the same period of 2008.

 

Net interest income increased $18.2 million, or 14.7 percent, during the fourth quarter of 2009. The taxable-equivalent net yield on interest-earning assets improved 22 basis points to 3.49 percent, the result of favorable trends in time deposit costs and the positive impact of yields and rates on acquired loans and assumed deposits.

 

Average interest-earning assets increased $1.07 billion to $16.32 billion from the fourth quarter of 2008 to the fourth quarter of 2009, primarily as a result of the 2009 Acquisitions. Average loans and leases outstanding during the fourth quarter of 2009 equaled $12.88 billion, an increase of $1.21 billion or 10.4 percent over 2008. The yield on interest-earning assets decreased 43 basis points from 5.12 percent in 2008 to 4.69 percent in 2009.

 

Average interest-bearing liabilities increased $995.8 million, or 8.0 percent over 2008, due to organic deposit growth and the 2009 Acquisitions. Average money market accounts increased $713.5 million or 21.0 percent to $4.12 billion while average time deposits increased $116.7 million or 2.1 percent to $5.60 billion. The rate on average interest-bearing liabilities decreased 81 basis points from 2.27 percent in 2008 to 1.46 percent in 2009.

 

The provision for loan and lease losses decreased 4.5 percent during the fourth quarter of 2009 versus the same period of 2008. Net charge-offs equaled $14.6 million during the fourth quarter of 2009, compared to $18.0 million during the fourth quarter of 2008. The annualized ratio of net charge-offs to average noncovered loans and leases equaled 0.50 percent during the fourth quarter of 2009, versus 0.62 percent during the same period of 2008.

 

Noninterest income increased $10.1 million or 14.0 percent during the fourth quarter of 2009 compared to the same period of 2008. The increase resulted primarily from the $4.4 million gain on sale of the corporate bond trustee business. Other increases in noninterest income were $1.7 million in wealth advisory services and $1.3 million in cardholder and merchant services income.

 

Noninterest expense increased $18.9 million during the fourth quarter of 2009 compared to the same period of 2008. This 12.1 percent increase resulted primarily from higher personnel expenses and operating costs related to the 2009 Acquisitions, a $4.7 million increase in foreclosure-related expenses and a $3.0 million increase in FDIC insurance premium expense.

 

Table 17 provides quarterly information for each of the quarters in 2009 and 2008. Table 18 analyzes the components of changes in net interest income between the fourth quarter of 2009 and 2008.

 

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Table 18

CONSOLIDATED TAXABLE EQUIVALENT RATE/VOLUME VARIANCE ANALYSIS—FOURTH QUARTER

 

    2009     2008     Increase (decrease) due to:  
    Average
Balance
  Interest
Income/
Expense
  Yield/
Rate
    Average
Balance
  Interest
Income/
Expense
  Yield/
Rate
    Volume     Yield/
Rate
    Total
Change
 
    (dollars in thousands)  

Assets

 

Loans and leases

  $ 12,877,150   $ 177,375   5.46   $ 11,665,522   $ 169,249   5.77   $ 17,431      $ (9,305   $ 8,126   

Investment securities:

                 

U. S. Government

    2,475,460     11,514   1.85        3,030,872     25,760   3.39        (3,609     (10,637     (14,246

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage backed securities

    131,930     1,101   3.31        83,253     1,110   5.30        529        (538     (9

Corporate bonds

    488,967     2,220   1.80        —       —     —          1,110        1,110        2,220   

State, county and municipal

    8,637     140   6.43        4,675     79   6.72        66        (5     61   

Other

    29,977     472   6.25        28,586     199   2.77        16        257        273   
                                                           

Total investment securities

    3,134,971     15,447   1.96        3,147,386     27,148   3.44        (1,888     (9,813     (11,701

Overnight investments

    307,490     198   0.26        434,217     592   0.54        (130     (264     (394
                                                           

Total interest-earning assets

  $ 16,319,611   $ 193,020   4.69   $ 15,247,125   $ 196,989   5.12   $ 15,413      $ (19,382   $ (3,969
                                                           

Liabilities

                 

Deposits:

                 

Checking With Interest

  $ 1,657,758   $ 518   0.12   $ 1,433,261   $ 458   0.13   $ 85      $ (25   $ 60   

Savings

    641,726     199   0.12        538,992     263   0.19        40        (104     (64

Money market accounts

    4,117,466     6,218   0.60        3,403,985     12,239   1.43        1,836        (7,857     (6,021

Time deposits

    5,603,112     31,414   2.22        5,486,405     46,903   3.40        915        (16,404     (15,489
                                                           

Total interest-bearing deposits

    12,020,062     38,349   1.27        10,862,643     59,863   2.19        2,876        (24,390     (21,514

Short-term borrowings

    651,824     1,300   0.79        878,754     1,738   0.79        (445     7        (438

Long-term obligations

    795,646     9,925   4.95        730,360     9,609   5.23        846        (530     316   
                                                           

Total interest-bearing liabilities

  $ 13,467,532   $ 49,574   1.46   $ 12,471,757   $ 71,210   2.27   $ 3,277      $ (24,913   $ (21,636
                                                           

Interest rate spread

      3.23       2.85      
                         

Net interest income and net yield on interest-earning assets

    $ 143,446   3.49     $ 125,779   3.27   $ 12,136      $ 5,531      $ 17,667   
                                                   

 

Average loans and leases includes nonaccrual loans and leases. Yields related to loans, leases and securities exempt from both federal and state income taxes, federal income taxes only, or state income taxes only, are stated on a taxable-equivalent basis assuming a statutory federal income tax rate of 35.0 percent and a state income tax rate of 6.9 percent for each period.

 

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COMMITMENTS AND CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

 

As a normal part of its business, BancShares, FCB, ISB and other subsidiaries enter into various contractual obligations and commercial commitments. Table 19 identifies significant obligations and commitments as of December 31, 2009.

 

Table 19

COMMITMENTS AND CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

 

     Payments due by period

Type of obligation

   Less than 1 year    1-3 years    4-5 years    Thereafter    Total
     (thousands)

Contractual obligations:

              

Deposits

   $ 14,393,341    $ 794,763    $ 142,474    $ 6,989    $ 15,337,567

Short-term borrowings

     642,405      —        —        —        642,405

Long-term obligations

     60,620      98,098      56,694      581,954      797,366

Operating leases

     15,812      25,256      14,788      54,798      110,654
                                  

Total contractual obligations

   $ 15,112,178    $ 918,117    $ 213,956    $ 643,741    $ 16,887,992
                                  

Commitments:

              

Loan commitments

   $ 2,149,146    $ 218,574    $ 162,870    $ 2,649,480    $ 5,180,070

Standby letters of credit

     43,597      6,222      23,930      —        73,749

Affordable housing partnerships

     6,480      3,150      172      —        9,802
                                  

Total commitments

   $ 2,199,223    $ 227,946    $ 186,972    $ 2,649,480    $ 5,263,621
                                  

 

CURRENT ACCOUNTING AND REGULATORY ISSUES

 

In March 2008, the FASB issued new guidance on disclosures concerning derivative instruments and hedging activities that require enhanced disclosure about how and why derivative instruments are used, how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for and how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect the balance sheet, income statement and statement of cash flows. The new guidance was adopted by BancShares on January 1, 2009 and will result in expanded disclosures, but will not have a material impact on the financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

Beginning January 1, 2009, changes to accounting for business combinations became effective. The new guidance established the acquisition method of accounting for all business combinations and required that an acquirer be identified for each business combination. The acquirer is required to recognize the fair value of assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at the acquisition date. The fair value established for loans includes any estimated losses; therefore, no allowance for loan losses is established at acquisition. The new guidance required that acquisition-related costs and restructuring costs be recognized as period expenses as incurred. BancShares adopted this change on January 1, 2009 and the acquisition method of accounting was applied for the acquisitions of TVB and VB by BancShares’ wholly-owned subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company during 2009.

 

Companies must consider events that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. For the financial statements and footnotes included in this Form 10-K, subsequent events have been considered through the date of this filing.

 

Beginning with the first annual reporting period after November 15, 2009, the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity is no longer relevant for accounting purposes. Therefore, formerly qualifying special-purpose entities (as defined under previous accounting standards) must be evaluated for consolidation by reporting entities in accordance with applicable consolidation guidance. If the evaluation results in consolidation, the reporting entity should apply the transition guidance provided in the pronouncement that requires consolidation. In addition, an enterprise is required to perform an analysis to determine whether the enterprise’s variable interest give it a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. This change is intended to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness, and comparability of the information that a reporting entity provides in its financial statements about a transfer of financial assets; the effects of a transfer on its financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; and a transferor’s continuing involvement, if

 

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any, in transferred financial assets and variable interest entities. In 2005, FCB securitized and sold approximately $250 million of HELOC loans through the use of a QSPE. This QSPE was determined to be a variable interest entity (VIE) for which FCB is obligated to derecognize the financial assets of and reflect on the consolidated financial statements. This consolidation will become effective in the first quarter of 2010 and will result in an increase in loans and debt in an amount equal to the fair value of the instrument at time of consolidation. The balance of these loans as of December 31, 2009 is $97.3 million. The debt has a balance of $85.8 million as of December 31, 2009.

 

In response to the challenges facing the financial services sector, several regulatory and governmental actions have been enacted including The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act, the TARP Capital Purchase Program and the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program (TLGP). Based on the expectation that our current capital levels will be adequate to sustain our growth for the foreseeable future, we did not apply to participate in the TARP Capital Purchase Program. Further, we waived the right to participate in the TLGP guarantee of unsecured debt. However, we did elect to participate in the TLGP’s enhanced deposit insurance program.

 

Although it is likely that further regulatory actions will arise as the Federal government attempts to address the economic situation, management is not aware of any further recommendations by regulatory authorities that, if implemented, would have or would be reasonably likely to have a material effect on liquidity, capital ratios or results of operations.

 

Controls and Procedures

 

BancShares’ management, with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of BancShares’ disclosure controls and procedures in accordance with Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act). Based on their evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, BancShares’ disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that it is able to record, process, summarize and report in a timely manner the information required to be disclosed in the reports it files under the Exchange Act.

 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting is included on page 49 of this Report. The report of BancShares’ independent registered public accounting firm regarding BancShares’ internal control over financial reporting is included on page 50 of this Report.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

We acquired TVB and VB in July 2009 and September 2009, respectively. Since the date of acquisitions, we have been focusing on analyzing, evaluating and implementing changes in the respective bank’s procedures and controls to determine their effectiveness and to make them consistent with our disclosure controls and procedures. As permitted by guidance issued by the staff of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, TVB and VB have been excluded from the scope of our quarterly discussion of material changes in internal control over financial reporting below.

 

No changes in our internal control over financial reporting were identified as having occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2009 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting, except as described above with respect to TVB and VB. Changes to processes, information technology systems and other components of internal control over financial reporting resulting from the acquisition of TVB and VB are expected as the integration of these operations proceeds.

 

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Forward-Looking Statements

 

Statements in this Report and exhibits relating to plans, strategies, economic performance and trends, projections of results of specific activities or investments, expectations or beliefs about future events or results, and other statements that are not descriptions of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

Forward-looking information is inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors, which include, but are not limited to, factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and in other documents filed by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time.

 

Forward-looking statements may be identified by terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “forecasts,” “projects,” “potential” or “continue,” or similar terms or the negative of these terms, or other statements concerning opinions or judgments of BancShares’ management about future events.

 

Factors that could influence the accuracy of those forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the financial success or changing strategies of our customers, customer acceptance of our services, products and fee structure, the competitive nature of the financial services industry, integration of banks, our ability to compete effectively against other financial institutions in our banking markets, actions of government regulators, the level of market interest rates and our ability to manage our interest rate risk, changes in general economic conditions that affect our loan portfolio, the abilities of our borrowers to repay their loans, the values of real estate and other loan collateral, and other developments or changes in our business that we do not expect.

 

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. We have no obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S ANNUAL REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

The management of First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (BancShares) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. BancShares’ internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to the company’s management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.

 

All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

 

As permitted by guidance provided by the staff of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the scope of management’s assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009 has excluded Temecula Valley Bank (TVB) and Venture Bank (VB), which were acquired in July 2009 and September 2009, respectively. TVB and VB constituted 2.5 percent and 1.1 percent of consolidated revenue (total interest income and total noninterest income, excluding the related gains on acquisitions) for the year ended December 31, 2009, respectively, and 5.2 percent and 3.4 percent of consolidated total assets as of December 31, 2009, respectively.

 

BancShares’ management assessed the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009. In making this assessment, it used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework. Based on that assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2009, the company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.

 

BancShares’ independent registered public accounting firm has issued an audit report on the company’s internal control over financial reporting. This report appears on page 53.

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

LOGO

 

Board of Directors and Shareholders

First Citizens BancShares, Inc.

 

We have audited First Citizens BancShares, Inc. and subsidiaries’ (BancShares) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. BancShares’ management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on BancShares’ internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

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

 

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

 

As described in Management’s Annual Report on Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting, management has excluded Temecula Valley Bank (TVB) and Venture Bank (VB) from its assessment of internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009 because they were acquired by the Company in July 2009 and September 2009, respectively. We have also excluded TVB and VB from the scope of our audit of internal control over financial reporting. TVB and VB were acquired by First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BancShares. TVB and VB constituted 2.5% and 1.1% of consolidated revenue (total interest income and total noninterest income, excluding the related gains on acquisitions) for the year ended December 31, 2009, respectively, and 5.2% and 3.4% of consolidated total assets as of December 31, 2009, respectively.

 

In our opinion, BancShares maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements of BancShares as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009, and our report dated March 1, 2010, expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. Our report refers to the fact that effective January 1, 2009, the Company changed its method of accounting and reporting for business combinations as a result of adopting new accounting guidance.

 

LOGO

 

Charlotte, North Carolina

March 1, 2010

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

LOGO

 

Board of Directors and Shareholders

First Citizens BancShares, Inc.

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of First Citizens BancShares, Inc. and subsidiaries (BancShares) as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of BancShares’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

 

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

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of BancShares as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

As discussed in Note A to the consolidated financial statements, effective January 1, 2009, the Company changed its method of accounting and reporting for business combinations as a result of adopting new accounting guidance.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of BancShares’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and our report dated March 1, 2010, expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of BancShares’ internal control over financial reporting. Our report on internal control over financial reporting refers to the fact that we excluded from the scope of our audit of internal control over financial reporting Temecula Valley Bank and Venture Bank, which were acquired by the Company in July 2009 and September 2009, respectively.

 

LOGO

 

Charlotte, North Carolina

March 1, 2010

 

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Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

First Citizens BancShares, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

     December 31  
     2009     2008  
     (thousands, except share data)  

ASSETS

    

Cash and due from banks

   $ 480,242      $ 593,375   

Overnight investments

     723,260        174,616   

Investment securities available for sale
(cost of $2,893,393 in 2009 and $3,144,639 in 2008)

     2,929,162        3,219,321   

Investment securities held to maturity
(fair value of $3,834 in 2009 and $6,110 in 2008)

     3,603        5,873   

Loans held for sale

     67,381        69,399   

Loans and leases:

    

Covered under FDIC loss share agreements

     1,173,020        —     

Not covered under FDIC loss share agreements

     11,644,999        11,649,886   

Less allowance for loan and lease losses

     172,282        157,569   
                

Net loans and leases

     12,645,737        11,492,317   

Premises and equipment

     837,082        798,909   

Other real estate owned:

    

Covered under FDIC loss share agreements

     93,774        —     

Not covered under FDIC loss share agreements

     40,607        29,956   

Income earned not collected

     60,684        72,029   

FDIC receivable for loss share agreements

     249,842        —     

Goodwill

     102,625        102,625   

Other intangible assets

     6,361        3,810   

Other assets

     225,703        183,432   
                

Total assets

   $ 18,466,063      $ 16,745,662   
                

LIABILITIES

    

Deposits:

    

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 3,215,414      $ 2,652,898   

Interest-bearing

     12,122,153        11,060,865   
                

Total deposits

     15,337,567        13,713,763   

Short-term borrowings

     642,405        647,028   

Long-term obligations

     797,366        733,132   

Other liabilities

     129,610        208,364   
                

Total liabilities

     16,906,948        15,302,287   

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

    

Common stock:

    

Class A—$1 par value (11,000,000 shares authorized; 8,756,778 shares issued for each period)

     8,757        8,757   

Class B—$1 par value (2,000,000 shares authorized; 1,677,675 shares issued for each period)

     1,678        1,678   

Surplus

     143,766        143,766   

Retained earnings

     1,429,863        1,326,054   

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

     (24,949     (36,880
                

Total shareholders’ equity

     1,559,115        1,443,375   
                

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 18,466,063      $ 16,745,662   
                

 

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Consolidated Statements of Income

 

First Citizens BancShares, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

    Year Ended December 31
    2009     2008   2007
    (thousands, except share and per share
data)

INTEREST INCOME

     

Loans and leases

  $ 659,537      $ 681,849   $ 727,581

Investment securities:

     

U.S. Government

    65,433        117,265     136,738

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities

    4,812        4,311     4,248

Corporate bonds

    6,283        —       —  

State, county and municipal

    278        209     220

Other

    1,085        962     1,225
                   

Total investment securities interest and dividend income

    77,891        122,747     142,431

Overnight investments

    731        8,755     32,169
                   

Total interest income

    738,159        813,351     902,181

INTEREST EXPENSE

     

Deposits

    183,759        263,538     341,236

Short-term borrowings

    4,882        17,502     55,126

Long-term obligations

    39,003        33,905     27,352
                   

Total interest expense

    227,644        314,945     423,714
                   

Net interest income

    510,515        498,406     478,467

Provision for loan and lease losses

    79,364        65,926     32,939
                   

Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses

    431,151        432,480     445,528

NONINTEREST INCOME

     

Gain on acquisitions

    104,434        —       —  

Cardholder and merchant services

    95,376        97,577     97,070

Service charges on deposit accounts

    78,028        82,349     77,827

Wealth management services

    46,071        48,198     49,305

Fees from processing services

    37,053        35,585     32,531

Mortgage income

    10,435        6,564     6,305

Insurance commissions

    8,129        8,277     7,735

ATM income

    6,856        7,003     6,515

Other service charges and fees

    16,411        17,598     15,318

Securities gains (losses)

    (511     8,128     1,376

Other

    7,318        2,205     3,363
                   

Total noninterest income

    409,600        313,484     297,345

NONINTEREST EXPENSE

     

Salaries and wages

    264,342        259,250     243,871

Employee benefits

    64,390        58,899     52,733

Occupancy expense

    66,266        60,839     56,922

Equipment expense

    60,310        57,715     56,404

FDIC deposit insurance expense

    29,344        5,126     2,619

Foreclosure-related expenses

    15,107        3,658     2,086

Other

    157,893        160,873     160,684
                   

Total noninterest expense

    657,652        606,360     575,319
                   

Income before income taxes

    183,099        139,604     167,554

Income taxes

    66,768        48,546     58,937
                   

Net income

  $ 116,331      $ 91,058   $ 108,617
                   

PER SHARE INFORMATION

     

Net income per share

  $ 11.15      $ 8.73   $ 10.41

Dividends per share

    1.20        1.10     1.10

Average shares outstanding

    10,434,453        10,434,453     10,434,453
                   

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Consolidated Statements of Changes In Shareholders’ Equity

 

First Citizens BancShares, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

    Class A
Common
Stock
  Class B
Common
Stock
  Surplus   Retained
Earnings
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (loss)
    Total
Shareholders’
Equity
 
    (thousands, except share and per share data)  

Balance at December 31, 2006

  $ 8,757   $ 1,678   $ 143,766   $ 1,148,372      $ 8,246      $ 1,310,819   

Adjustment resulting from adoption of accounting guidance regarding uncertain tax positions

    —       —       —       962        —          962   

Comprehensive income:

            —       

Net income

    —       —       —       108,617        —          108,617   

Unrealized securities gains arising during period, net of $17,453 deferred tax

    —       —       —       —          27,213        27,213   

Less: reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, net of $543 deferred tax

    —       —       —       —          833        833   
                                         

Unrealized securities gains, net of deferred taxes

    —       —       —       —          26,380        26,380   

Change in unrecognized loss on cash flow hedge, net of $1,406 deferred tax benefit

    —       —       —       —          (2,155     (2,155

Change in pension asset, net of $5,190 deferred tax

    —       —       —       —          8,063        8,063   
                 

Total comprehensive income

              140,905   

Cash dividends of $1.10 per share

    —       —       —       (11,478     —          (11,478
                                         

Balance at December 31, 2007

    8,757     1,678     143,766     1,246,473        40,534        1,441,208   

Comprehensive income:

           

Net income

    —       —       —       91,058        —          91,058   

Unrealized securities gains arising during period, net of $7,753 deferred tax

    —       —       —       —          12,182        12,182   

Change in unrecognized loss on cash flow hedge, net of $2,098 deferred tax benefit

    —       —       —       —          (3,216     (3,216

Change in pension obligation, net of $55,581 deferred tax benefit

    —       —       —       —          (86,380     (86,380
                 

Total comprehensive income

              13,644   
                 

Cash dividends of $1.10 per share

    —       —       —       (11,477     —          (11,477
                                         

Balance at December 31, 2008

    8,757     1,678     143,766     1,326,054        (36,880     1,443,375   

Comprehensive income:

           

Net income

    —       —       —       116,331        —          116,331   

Unrealized securities losses arising during period, net of $15,365 deferred tax benefit

    —       —       —       —          (23,961     (23,961

Change in unrecognized loss on cash flow hedge, net of $2,093 deferred tax benefit

    —       —       —       —          3,208        3,208   

Change in pension obligation, net of $21,019 deferred tax

    —       —       —       —          32,684        32,684   
                 

Total comprehensive income

              128,262   
                 

Cash dividends of $1.20 per share

    —       —       —       (12,522       (12,522
                                         

Balance at December 31, 2009

  $ 8,757   $ 1,678   $ 143,766   $ 1,429,863      $ (24,949   $ 1,559,115   
                                         

 

At December 31, 2008, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income includes $45,391 in unrealized gains on investment securities available for sale, pension obligation of $75,815 and an unrealized loss of $6,456 on a cash flow hedge. At December 31, 2009, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income includes $21,430 in unrealized gains on investment securities available for sale, pension obligation of $43,131 resulting from the funded status of the defined benefit plan and an unrealized loss of $3,248 on cash flow hedges.

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

First Citizens BancShares, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

    For the year ended December 31  
    2009     2008     2007  
    (thousands)  

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

     

Net income

  $ 116,331      $ 91,058      $ 108,617   

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:

     

Amortization of intangibles

    1,940        2,048        2,142   

Provision for loan and lease losses

    79,364        65,926        32,939   

Deferred tax (benefit) expense

    35,772        (8,381     1,597   

Change in current taxes payable

    (4,426     (2,673     497   

Depreciation

    57,724        53,945        51,822   

Change in accrued interest payable

    (13,042     (11,365     (1,091

Change in income earned not collected

    17,083        7,314        (7,781

Gain on acquisitions

    (104,434     —          —     

Securities losses (gains)

    511        (8,128     (1,376

Origination of loans held for sale

    (751,154     (475,874     (509,655

Proceeds from sale of loans

    761,973        488,158        513,706   

Gain on sale of loans

    (8,801     (5,862     (5,482

Proceeds from sale of other real estate

    10,763        15,116        4,582   

Loss (gain) on other real estate

    15,107        912        (575

Loss on premises and equipment, net

    —          —          1,886   

Net amortization of premiums and discounts

    43,246        9,702        (4,175

Change in FDIC receivable for loss share agreement

    (4,142     —          —     

Net change in other assets

    (46,391     (6,065     (32,422

Net change in other liabilities

    (28,585     11,391        7,164   
                       

Net cash provided by operating activities

    178,839        227,222        162,395   
                       

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

     

Net change in loans outstanding

    49,677        (851,848     (717,401

Purchases of investment securities held to maturity

    (73     —          —     

Purchases of investment securities available for sale

    (1,462,593     (1,748,963     (1,661,277

Proceeds from maturities of investment securities held to maturity

    2,343        1,727        211,816   

Proceeds from maturities of investment securities available for sale

    1,567,326        1,714,337        1,480,591   

Proceeds from sales of investment securities

    151,559        16,456        1,392   

Net change in overnight investments

    (417,372     91,593        82,388   

Dispositions of premises and equipment

    —          —          2,164   

Additions to premises and equipment

    (95,877     (95,160     (106,482

Net cash received from acquisitions

    51,381        —          —     
                       

Net cash used by investing activities

    (153,629     (871,858     (706,809
                       

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

     

Net change in time deposits

    (1,102,587     37,895        341,399   

Net change in demand and other interest-bearing deposits

    1,051,869        747,324        (156,179

Net change in short-term borrowings

    (83,719     (659,519     154,440   

Origination of long-term obligations

    8,616        330,000        180   

Redemption of long-term obligations

    —          —          (1,144

Cash dividends paid

    (12,522     (11,477     (11,478
                       

Net cash provided (used) by financing activities

    (138,343     444,223        327,218   
                       

Change in cash and due from banks

    (113,133     (200,413     (217,196

Cash and due from banks at beginning of period

    593,375      $ 793,788      $ 1,010,984   
                       

Cash and due from banks at end of period

  $ 480,242      $ 593,375      $ 793,788   
                       

CASH PAYMENTS FOR:

     

Interest

  $ 240,686      $ 326,310      $ 424,805   

Income taxes

    20,640        69,506        57,765   
                       

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NONCASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

     

Unrealized securities (losses) gains

  $ (39,326   $ 19,935      $ 43,290   

Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges

    (5,301     (5,314     (3,561

Prepaid pension benefit (pension liability)

    53,703        (141,961     13,253   

Transfers of loans to other real estate

    67,380        44,714        4,779   

Acquisitions:

     

Assets acquired

    1,924,179        —          —     

Liabilities assumed

    1,819,745        —          —     

Net assets acquired

    104,434        —          —     
                       

 

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

NOTE A—SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Basis of Presentation and Consolidation

 

First Citizens BancShares, Inc. (BancShares) is a financial holding company with two banking subsidiaries: First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company, headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina (FCB), which operates branches in North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee, California, Washington and Washington, DC; and IronStone Bank (ISB), a federally-chartered thrift institution with branch offices in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Arizona, California, New Mexico, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Missouri, Oklahoma and Kansas.

 

FCB and ISB offer full-service banking services designed to meet the needs of retail and commercial customers in the markets in which they operate. The services offered include transaction and savings deposit accounts, commercial and consumer lending, trust, asset management and broker-dealer services, insurance services and other activities incidental to commercial banking.

 

BancShares is also the parent company of Neuse, Incorporated, which owns some of the real property from which ISB operates its branches and also owns certain ISB generated other real estate.

 

FCB has other subsidiaries that support its full-service banking operation. First Citizens Investor Services (FCIS) is a registered broker-dealer in securities that provides investment services, including sales of annuities and third party mutual funds. Neuse Financial Services, Inc. is a title insurance agency.

 

During 2009, IronStone Securities, a registered broker-dealer in securities that was a subsidiary of FCB, discontinued its operations and was merged into FCIS. On January 1, 2007, American Guaranty Insurance Company, a property and casualty insurance company, and Triangle Life Insurance Company, a credit life and credit accident and health insurance company were sold to an unrelated party.

 

The accounting and reporting policies of BancShares and its subsidiaries are in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (US GAAP) and, with regard to the banking subsidiaries, conform to general industry practices. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The most significant estimates made by BancShares in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements are:

 

   

Determination of the allowance for loan and lease losses

 

   

Pension plan assumptions

 

   

Income taxes

 

   

Determination of fair values of acquired assets and assumed liabilities

 

   

Loss estimates related to loans and other real estate acquired which are covered under loss share agreements with the FDIC

 

   

Goodwill and other intangible assets

 

   

Valuation of other real estate

 

Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Certain amounts for prior years have been reclassified to conform to statement presentations for 2009. However, the reclassifications have no effect on shareholders’ equity or net income as previously reported.

 

Effective January 1, 2009, FCB adopted new US GAAP which requires the acquisition method of accounting, formerly referred to as the purchase method, be used for all business combinations. An acquirer must be identified for

 

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FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

each business combination, and the acquisition date is the date the acquirer achieves control. US GAAP requires the acquirer to recognize the fair value of assets acquired, liabilities assumed and any controlling interest in the acquiree at the acquisition date as well as recognize goodwill or a gain from a bargain purchase if appropriate. In addition, acquisition-related costs and restructuring costs are recognized as period expenses as incurred.

 

BancShares’ wholly-owned subsidiary FCB acquired Temecula Valley Bank (TVB) headquartered in Temecula, California on July 17, 2009 and Venture Bank (VB) headquartered in Lacey, Washington on September 11, 2009. The acquisitions of TVB and VB were completed in accordance with US GAAP, and the acquisition method of accounting was applied for both acquisitions. Additional information on these two acquisitions is disclosed in Note B.

 

Investment Securities

 

Investment securities available for sale are carried at their fair value with unrealized gains and losses, net of deferred income taxes, recorded as a component of other comprehensive income within shareholders’ equity. Gains and losses realized from the sales of securities available for sale are determined by specific identification and are included in noninterest income. As of December 31, 2009, there was no intent to sell any of the securities classified as available for sale. Furthermore, it is not likely that BancShares will have to sell any such securities before a recovery of the carrying value.

 

BancShares has the ability and the positive intent to hold investment securities held to maturity until the scheduled maturity date. These securities are stated at cost adjusted for amortization of premium and accretion of discount. Accreted discounts and amortized premiums are included in interest income on an effective yield basis.

 

At December 31, 2009 and 2008, BancShares had no investment securities held for trading purposes.

 

Overnight Investments

 

Overnight investments include federal funds sold and interest-bearing demand deposit balances in other banks.

 

Loans and Leases

 

Loans and leases that are held for investment purposes are carried at the principal amount outstanding. Loans that are classified as held for sale are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or fair value. Interest on substantially all loans is accrued and credited to interest income on a constant yield basis based upon the daily principal amount outstanding.

 

Acquired loans are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition. Fair value estimates for loans acquired from TVB and VB were based on various factors including appraisals and estimated collateral values, expected cash flows and statistically derived loss factors.

 

Receivable from FDIC for Loss Share Agreements

 

Under loss share agreements with the FDIC, FCB is entitled to recover 80 percent of losses incurred below a stated threshold and 95 percent of losses incurred that exceed the stated threshold. FCB does not expect that losses will exceed the stated threshold. Therefore, FCB recorded a receivable from the FDIC equal to 80 percent of the estimated net losses on the covered loans and other real estate acquired from TVB and VB in excess of any applicable first loss tranche. The receivable was recorded at the present value of the estimated cash flows at the date of the respective acquisition and will be reviewed and updated prospectively as loss estimates related to loans covered under loss share agreements with the FDIC (Covered Loans), and other real estate owned change. Changes to the FDIC receivable are classified in noninterest income.

 

Covered Loans are reported in loans exclusive of the expected reimbursement from the FDIC. Subsequent decreases in the amount expected to be collected result in a provision for loan and lease losses, an increase in the allowance for loan

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

and lease losses, and a proportional adjustment to the FDIC receivable for the estimated amount to be reimbursed. Subsequent increases in the amount expected to be collected result in the reversal of any previously-recorded provision for loan and lease losses and related allowance for loan and lease losses and adjustments to the FDIC receivable, or prospective adjustment to the accretable yield if no provision for loan and lease losses had been recorded. Interest is accrued daily on the outstanding principal balances. Accretable yields related to certain fair value adjustments are accreted into income over the estimated lives of the loans on a level yield basis when the timing and amount of the cash flows can be estimated.

 

When the fair values of Covered Loans were established, certain loans were identified as impaired. The designation of impaired or nonimpaired affects the ability to accrete discounts or amortize premiums into earnings over the loan’s life. Due to uncertainty regarding the timing of future cash flows, no accretable yield was recorded during 2009 for loans that were deemed to be impaired at acquisition.

 

Loan Fees

 

Fees collected and certain costs incurred related to loan originations are deferred and amortized as an adjustment to interest income over the life of the related loans using a method that approximates a constant yield.

 

Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses

 

The allowance for loan and lease losses (ALLL) represents management’s estimate of probable credit losses within the loan and lease portfolio. Adjustments to the ALLL are established by charges to the provision for loan and lease losses net of any recoveries under the loss share agreements. To determine the appropriate amount of the ALLL, management evaluates the risk characteristics of the loan and lease portfolio and considers such factors as the financial condition of the borrower, fair value of collateral and other items that, in management’s opinion, deserve current recognition in estimating credit losses. Management considers the established ALLL adequate to absorb probable losses that relate to loans and leases outstanding as of December 31, 2009.

 

For loans covered under loss share agreements, subsequent decreases to the expected cash flows will generally result in additional ALLL. Subsequent increases in expected cash flows will result in a reversal of ALLL to the extent of prior ALLL recognition.

 

Future adjustments to the ALLL may be necessary based on changes in economic and other conditions. Additionally, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review BancShares’ ALLL. Such agencies may require the recognition of adjustments to the ALLL based on their judgments of information available to them at the time of their examination.

 

Nonaccrual Loans, Impaired Loans and Restructured Loans

 

Accrual of interest on certain residential mortgage loans is discontinued when the loan is more than three payments past due. Accrual of interest on other loans and leases is discontinued when management deems that collection of additional principal or interest is doubtful. Residential mortgage loans return to an accrual status when the loan balance is less than three payments past due. Other loans and leases are returned to an accrual status when both principal and interest are current and the loan is determined to be performing in accordance with the applicable terms.

 

Management considers a loan to be impaired when based on current information and events, it is probable that a borrower will be unable to pay all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired loans are valued by either the discounted expected cash flow method using the loan’s original effective interest rate or the collateral value. When the ultimate collectibility of an impaired loan’s principal is doubtful, all cash receipts are applied to principal. Once the recorded principal balance has been reduced to zero, future cash receipts are applied to interest income, to the extent that any interest has been foregone.

 

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FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Covered Loans which are more than 90 days past due with respect to interest or principal, unless they are well secured and in the process of collection, and other Covered Loans on which full recovery of principal or interest is in doubt, are placed on nonaccrual status. Interest previously accrued on Covered Loans placed on nonaccrual status is charged against interest income, and the FDIC receivable would be adjusted by the amount of any estimated reimbursement. Payments received are applied against the principal balance of the loans until such time as full collection of the remaining recorded balance is expected. Additional interest payments received after that time are recorded as interest income on a cash basis.

 

Acquired loans that are identified as impaired at the date of acquisition are recorded at fair values net of a nonaccretable difference and, if appropriate, an accretable yield. The difference between contractually required payments at acquisition and the cash flows expected to be collected at acquisition is the nonaccretable difference, which is reflected as a reduction in the carrying amount of acquired loans. Subsequent decreases to the expected cash flows will generally result in a provision for loan and lease losses. Subsequent increases in cash flows result in a reversal of the provision for loan and lease losses to the extent of prior charges, with any remaining amounts reclassified from nonaccretable to accretable with a positive impact on the accretable yield. Any excess of cash flows expected at acquisition over the estimated fair value is referred to as the accretable yield and is recognized in interest income over the remaining life of the loan when there is a reasonable expectation about the amount and timing of such cash flows. Due to an inability to estimate the timing of future cash flows, BancShares was unable to make such an estimate for impaired loans acquired during 2009.

 

Restructured loans are loans that have been modified due to deterioration in the borrower’s financial condition, resulting in more favorable terms for the borrower. Accrual of interest is continued for restructured loans when the borrower was performing prior to the restructuring and there is reasonable assurance of repayment and continued performance under the modified terms.

 

Other Real Estate Owned

 

Other real estate owned (OREO) is valued at the lower of the loan balance at the time of foreclosure or estimated fair value net of selling costs. Once acquired, OREO is periodically reviewed to ensure that the fair value of the property supports the carrying value, with writedowns recorded when necessary. Gains and losses resulting from the sale or writedown of OREO and income and expenses related to its operation are recorded in other noninterest expense.

 

Under loss share agreements with the FDIC, a receivable is recorded equal to 80 percent of the estimated losses in OREO acquired from TVB and VB. The receivable is recorded at the present value of estimated cash flows at the date of the respective acquisition and will be reviewed and updated prospectively as loss estimates related to OREO through foreclosure change. For OREO covered under loss share agreements, subsequent decreases to the expected cash flows will generally result in writedowns of the asset’s carrying value and recognition of foreclosure-related expense.

 

Acquired OREO is valued based upon pending sales contracts and appraisal values, adjusted for current market conditions. OREO covered under loss share agreements with the FDIC is reported exclusive of expected reimbursement cash flows from the FDIC. Subsequent adjustments to the estimated recoverable value of covered OREO result in a reduction of covered OREO, a charge to other expense, and an increase in the FDIC receivable for the estimated amount to be reimbursed, with a corresponding amount recorded as other noninterest income.

 

Other Assets

 

Other assets includes investments in the Federal Home Loan Banks of Atlanta, San Francisco and Seattle (FHLBs or FHLB). The FHLBs require member banks to purchase stock as a condition of membership and other criteria including the amount of advances. FHLB stock is generally redeemable based on guidelines established by the issuing bank. The investments in FHLB stock are reported at their redemption value.

 

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Premises and Equipment

 

Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. For financial reporting purposes, depreciation and amortization are computed by the straight-line method and are expensed over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 25 to 40 years for premises and 3 to 10 years for furniture, software and equipment. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the terms of the respective leases or the useful lives of the improvements, whichever is shorter. Gains and losses on dispositions are recorded in other expense. Maintenance and repairs are charged to occupancy expense or equipment expense as incurred.

 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

 

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill is tested at least annually for impairment using a two-step process. The first step requires estimation of each reporting unit’s fair value. If the fair value exceeds the carrying value, no further testing is required. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, further analysis is required to determine whether an impairment charge must be recorded and, if so, the amount of such charge.

 

Other intangible assets with estimable lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives, which are periodically reviewed for reasonableness. As a result of the acquisitions of TVB and VB in 2009, identifiable intangible assets were recorded representing the estimated value of the core deposits assumed. These identifiable intangible assets are being amortized on an accelerated basis over their estimated life.

 

Fair Values

 

On January 1, 2008, BancShares adopted changes to US GAAP that affect fair value measurements. The changes to US GAAP include a definition of fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities, BancShares considers the principal or most advantageous market in which those assets or liabilities are sold and considers assumptions that market participants would use when pricing those assets or liabilities.

 

Under the new accounting guidance, individual fair value estimates are ranked on a three-tier scale based on the relative reliability of the inputs used in the valuation. Fair values determined using Level 1 inputs rely on active and observable markets to price identical assets or liabilities. In situations where identical assets and liabilities are not traded in active markets, fair values may be determined based on Level 2 inputs, which exist when observable data exists for similar assets and liabilities. Fair values for assets and liabilities that are not actively traded in observable markets are based on Level 3 inputs, which are considered to be unobservable.

 

The changes to US GAAP that became effective on January 1, 2008 allowed financial statement issuers to elect to measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in the income statement each period. BancShares did not elect to report any assets and liabilities at fair value. The adoption of the new fair value accounting standards had no impact on the financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

Income Taxes

 

Income tax expense is based on income before income taxes and generally differs from income taxes paid due to deferred income taxes and benefits arising from income and expenses being recognized in different periods for financial and income tax reporting purposes. BancShares uses the asset and liability method to account for deferred income taxes. The objective of the asset and liability method is to establish deferred tax assets and liabilities for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the income tax basis of BancShares’ assets and liabilities at enacted rates expected to be in effect when such amounts are realized or settled.

 

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

BancShares continually monitors and evaluates the potential impact of current events on the estimates used to establish income tax expenses and income tax liabilities. On a periodic basis, BancShares evaluates its income tax positions based on current tax law, positions taken by various tax auditors within the jurisdictions that BancShares is required to file income tax returns, as well as potential or pending audits or assessments by such tax auditors.

 

BancShares and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. BancShares and its subsidiaries each file separate state income tax returns except where unitary filing is required.

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

A derivative is a financial instrument that derives its cash flows, and therefore its value, by reference to an underlying instrument, index or referenced interest rate. These instruments include interest rate swaps, caps, floors, collars, options or other financial instruments designed to hedge exposures to interest rate risk or for speculative purposes.

 

BancShares uses interest rate swaps for interest rate risk management purposes. During 2006 and 2009, BancShares entered into interest rate swaps that qualify as cash flow hedges under US GAAP. These interest rate swaps convert variable-rate exposure on outstanding debt to a fixed rate. The hedges are valued each quarter, and changes in the fair values are recorded on the consolidated balance sheet with an offset to other comprehensive income for the effective portion and an offset to the consolidated statements of income for any ineffective portion. The assessment of effectiveness is performed using the long-haul method. BancShares’ interest rate swaps have been fully effective since inception; therefore, changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps have had no impact on net income. BancShares also performs a quarterly analysis of counterparty credit risk for the interest rate swaps. There are no speculative derivative financial instruments in any period.

 

Per Share Data

 

Net income per share has been computed by dividing net income by the average number of both classes of common shares outstanding during each period. The average number of shares outstanding for 2009, 2008 and 2007 was 10,434,453. BancShares had no potential common stock outstanding in any period.

 

Cash dividends per share apply to both Class A and Class B common stock. Shares of Class A common stock carry one vote per share, while shares of Class B common stock carry 16 votes per share.

 

Current Accounting Matters

 

Effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009, the FASB modified US GAAP to require disclosures about the fair value of each major category of plan assets in a postretirement plan. Additional detail is required for equity securities and investment funds. In addition, the level within the fair value hierarchy (level 1, level 2 or level 3) each major category of plan assets falls as well as a reconciliation of beginning and ending balances of plan assets measured using significant level 3 inputs must be disclosed. BancShares implemented the new requirements and the enhanced disclosures are included in Note K of these consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2008, the FASB issued new guidance on disclosures concerning derivative instruments and hedging activities that require enhanced disclosure about how and why derivative instruments are used, how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for and how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect the balance sheet, income statement and statement of cash flows. The new guidance was effective for BancShares on January 1, 2009 and resulted in expanded disclosures, but no material impact on financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

 

Beginning January 1, 2009, changes to accounting for business combinations became effective. The new guidance established the acquisition method of accounting for all business combinations and required that an acquirer be identified for each business combination. The acquirer is required to recognize the fair value of assets acquired, liabilities assumed,

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at the acquisition date in addition to potentially recognizing either goodwill or a gain from a bargain purchase. Prior to these changes, any excess of the fair value of net assets acquired over consideration paid was considered “negative goodwill” and was first allocated as a reduction to long-lived assets acquired, with any remaining balance recorded as a bargain purchase gain. The fair value established for loans includes any estimated losses; therefore, no allowance for loan losses is established at acquisition. The new guidance required that acquisition-related costs and restructuring costs be recognized as period expenses as incurred. BancShares adopted this change on January 1, 2009 and the acquisition method of accounting was applied for the acquisitions of TVB and VB by FCB during 2009.

 

Companies must consider events that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. For the financial statements and footnotes included in this Form 10-K, subsequent events occurring prior to the date of the filing of these consolidated financial statements have been considered.

 

Beginning with the first annual reporting period after November 15, 2009, the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity (QSPE) is no longer relevant for accounting purposes. Therefore, QSPEs identified under previous accounting standards must be evaluated for potential consolidation in accordance with applicable consolidation guidance. If the evaluation determines that consolidation is appropriate, the reporting entity should apply the transition guidance provided in the pronouncement that requires consolidation. In addition, issuers are required to perform an analysis to determine whether its variable interest gives it a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity (VIE). This change is intended to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness, and comparability of the information that an issuer provides in its financial statements about a transfer of financial assets; the effects of a transfer on its financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; and a transferor’s continuing involvement, if any, in transferred financial assets and VIEs. In 2005, FCB securitized and sold approximately $250,000 of revolving mortgage loans through the use of a QSPE. The analysis of this QSPE under the new accounting guidance determined that the financial assets of the VIE should be included in the consolidated financial statements. This consolidation will become effective in the first quarter of 2010 and will result in an increase in loans and debt in an amount equal to the fair value of the instrument at time of consolidation. The balance of these loans and the corresponding debt obligation as of December 31, 2009 is $97,291 and $85,849, respectively.

 

NOTE B: ACQUISITIONS

 

On July 17, 2009, FCB purchased substantially all the assets and assumed substantially all the liabilities of TVB from the FDIC, as Receiver of TVB in order to expand BancShares’ banking presence in California. TVB operated 11 commercial banking branches primarily within the San Diego, CA area and the Temecula Valley area east of San Diego. The FDIC took TVB under receivership upon its closure by the California Department of Financial Institutions. FCB’s bid to purchase TVB included the purchase of substantially all TVB’s assets at a discount of $135,000 in exchange for assuming certain TVB deposits and certain other liabilities. No cash, deposit premium or other consideration was paid by FCB. FCB and the FDIC entered into loss share agreements regarding future losses incurred on loans and OREO existing at the acquisition date. Under the terms of the loss share agreements, there is no reimbursement by the FDIC until net losses reach $193,262. The FDIC will reimburse FCB for 80 percent of net losses incurred between $193,262 and $464,000, and 95 percent of net losses exceeding $464,000. The term for loss share on residential real estate loans is ten years, while the term for loss share on non-residential real estate loans is five years in respect to losses and eight years in respect to loss recoveries. As a result of the loss share agreements with the FDIC, FCB recorded a receivable of $103,508 at the time of acquisition. FCB has identified $77,700 in net losses incurred between the acquisition date and December 31, 2009 that will be submitted to the FDIC under the loss share agreements.

 

On September 11, 2009, FCB purchased substantially all the assets and assumed substantially all the liabilities of VB from the FDIC, as Receiver of VB. VB operated 18 commercial banking branches in the Seattle/Olympia, Washington vicinity. The FDIC took VB under receivership upon its closure by the Washington Department of Financial Institutions. FCB’s bid to purchase VB included the purchase of substantially all VB’s assets at a discount of $110,000 in exchange for

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

assuming certain VB deposits and certain other liabilities. The FDIC paid FCB $19,406 in additional cash consideration at closing. FCB and the FDIC entered into loss share agreements regarding future losses incurred on loans and OREO existing at the acquisition date. Under the terms of the loss share agreements, the FDIC will reimburse FCB for 80 percent of net losses incurred up to $235,000, and 95 percent of net losses exceeding $235,000. The term for loss share on residential real estate loans is ten years, while the term for loss share on non-residential real estate loans is five years in respect to losses and eight years in respect to loss recoveries. As a result of the loss share agreements with the FDIC, FCB recorded a receivable of $142,143 at the time of acquisition. FCB has identified $25,122 in net losses incurred between the acquisition date and December 31, 2009 that will be submitted to the FDIC under loss share agreements and subject to reimbursement at 80 percent of the loss amount.

 

The acquisitions of TVB and VB were accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. The statement of net assets acquired and the resulting bargain purchase gains are presented in the following tables. The purchased assets, assumed liabilities and identifiable intangible assets were recorded at their respective acquisition date fair values. Fair values are preliminary and subject to refinement for up to one year after the closing date of each merger as additional information regarding the closing date fair values becomes available.

 

As of December 31, 2009, noninterest income includes a bargain purchase gain of $104,434 that resulted from the acquisitions. The amount of the gain is equal to the amount by which the fair value of assets purchased exceeded the fair value of liabilities assumed. The initial gain of $104,970 was adjusted by $536 as a result of information received after the acquisition date that changed the fair value of loans, OREO, FDIC receivable for loss share agreements and investment securities as of the acquisition date.

 

The following tables present the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, as recorded by TVB and VB on the acquisition dates and as adjusted for purchase accounting adjustments.

 

      July 17, 2009
      As recorded
by TVB
   Fair value
adjustments
         As recorded
by FCB

Assets

          

Cash and due from banks

   $ 19,299    $ —           $ 19,299

Overnight investments

     27,040      —             27,040

Investment securities

     20,931      —             20,931

Loans and leases

     1,193,586      (338,003   a      855,583

Other real estate owned

     66,117      (8,414   b      57,703

FDIC receivable for loss share agreements

     —        103,558      c      103,558

SBA servicing asset

     5,783      —             5,783

Other assets

     21,828      (2,133   d      19,695
                          

Total assets

   $ 1,354,584    $ (244,992      $ 1,109,592
                          

Liabilities

          

Deposits:

          

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 147,786    $ —           $ 147,786

Interest-bearing

     817,645      —             817,645
                        

Total deposits

     965,431      —             965,431

Short-term borrowings

     78,542      554      e      79,096

Other liabilities

     4,749      3,928      g      8,677
                          

Total liabilities

     1,048,722      4,482           1,053,204
                          

Excess of assets acquired over liabilities assumed

   $ 305,862        
              

Aggregate fair value adjustments

      $ (249,474     
                

Gain on acquisition of TVB

           $ 56,388
              

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

      September 11, 2009
      As recorded
by VB
   Fair value
adjustments
         As recorded
by FCB

Assets

          

Cash and due from banks

   $ 12,676    $ —           $ 12,676

Overnight investments

     104,232      —             104,232

Investment securities

     27,193      679           27,872

Loans and leases

     639,335      (182,340   a      456,995

Other real estate owned

     51,862      (7,473   b      44,389

FDIC receivable for loss share agreements

     —        138,963      c      138,963

Other assets

     8,005      2,049      d      10,054
                        

Total assets

   $ 843,303    $ (48,122      $ 795,181
                        

Liabilities

          

Deposits:

          

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 305,317    $ —           $ 305,317

Interest-bearing

     403,774      —             403,774
                        

Total deposits

     709,091      —             709,091

Long-term obligations

     50,078      5,540      f      55,618

Other liabilities

     1,379      453      g      1,832
                        

Total liabilities

     760,548      5,993           766,541
                        

Net assets acquired

   $ 82,755    $ (54,115      $ 28,640
                        

Excess of assets acquired over liabilities assumed

   $ 82,755        
              

Aggregate fair value adjustments

      $ (54,115     
                

Cash received from the FDIC

           $ 19,406

Gain on acquisition of VB

           $ 48,046
              

 

Explanation of fair value adjustments

 

a—Adjustment reflects the fair value adjustments based on FCB’s evaluation of the acquired loan portfolio.

b—Adjustment reflects the estimated OREO losses based on FCB’s evaluation of the acquired OREO portfolio.

c—Adjustment reflects the estimated fair value of payments FCB will receive from the FDIC under the loss share agreements.

d—Adjustment reflects amount needed to adjust the carrying value of other assets to estimated fair value.

e—Adjustment arises since the rates on short-term borrowings are higher than rates available on similar borrowings as of the acquisition date.

f—Adjustment arises since the rates on long-term obligations are higher than rates available on similar borrowings as of the acquisition date.

g—Adjustment reflects amount needed to adjust the carrying value of other liabilities to estimated fair value.

 

Total revenues for 2009 increased by $26,075 due to the TVB transaction and $11,138 due to the VB transaction. BancShares does not track post-acquisition earnings for TVB and VB on a stand-alone basis. Due to the significant impact of fair value adjustments and the FDIC loss share agreements, historical results of TVB and VB are not relevant to BancShares’ operating results. Therefore, no pro forma information is presented.

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

On January 29, 2010, FCB entered into an agreement with the FDIC to purchase substantially all the assets and assume the majority of the liabilities of First Regional Bank (First Regional) of Los Angeles, California at a discount of $299,400, with no deposit premium paid. The FDIC serves as Receiver of the institution. The Purchase and Assumption Agreement with the FDIC includes loss share agreements on the loans and other real estate purchased by FCB which provides protection against losses to FCB. Under the terms of the loss share agreements, the FDIC will reimburse FCB for 80 percent of net losses incurred above the first loss tranche, estimated at $41,817, up to the stated threshold of $1,017,000, and 95 percent of net losses exceeding this stated threshold.

 

First Regional operated in Southern California in eight branch locations in Century City, Irvine, Torrance, Los Angeles, Glendale, Santa Monica, Encino and Westlake Village; two loan production offices in Anaheim and Los Angeles; a merchant services department in Agoura Hills; and a trust and investment division.

 

The acquisition of First Regional is being accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. The unaudited statement of assets and liabilities is presented in the following table. These amounts are based on the FDIC settlement statement and do not include adjustments to reflect the assets and liabilities at their fair value at date of acquisition. The calculations to determine fair values were incomplete at the time of filing of this Form 10-K.

 

     As recorded by
First Regional Bank
December 31, 2009
(unaudited)

Assets

  

Cash and due from banks

   $ 37,509

Investment securities

     3,250

Loans and leases

     1,859,924

Other real estate owned

     61,488

Income earned not collected

     6,048

Other assets

     23,781
      

Total assets

   $ 1,992,000
      

Liabilities

  

Deposits:

  

Noninterest-bearing

   $ 384,467

Interest-bearing

     896,998
      

Total deposits

     1,281,465

Short-term borrowings

     361,896

Other liabilities

     7,421
      

Total liabilities

     1,650,782
      

Excess of assets over liabilities

   $ 341,218
      

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

 

NOTE C—INVESTMENT SECURITIES

 

The aggregate values of investment securities at December 31 along with gains and losses determined on an individual security basis are as follows:

 

         Cost    Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   Fair Value

Investment securities available for sale

           

2009

             
  U.S. Government    $ 2,274,084    $ 14,005    $ 666    $ 2,287,423
  Corporate bonds      481,341      4,326      —        485,667
  FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities      126,601      4,489      752      130,338
  State, county and municipal      7,053      35      275      6,813
  Equity securities      2,377      14,245      —        16,622
  Other      1,937      362      —        2,299
                             
 

Total investment securities available for sale

   $ 2,893,393    $ 37,462    $ 1,693    $ 2,929,162
                             

2008

             
  U.S. Government    $ 3,053,440    $ 60,004    $ 1,016    $ 3,112,428
  FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities      81,109      1,966      123      82,952
  State, county and municipal      3,108      26      81      3,053
  Equity securities      3,291      12,365      195      15,461
  Other      3,691      1,736      —        5,427
                             
 

Total investment securities available for sale

   $ 3,144,639    $ 76,097    $ 1,415    $ 3,219,321
                             

Investment securities held to maturity

           

2009

             
  FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities    $ 3,452    $ 230    $ —      $ 3,682
  State, county and municipal      151      1      —        152
                             
 

Total investment securities held to maturity

   $ 3,603    $ 231    $ —      $ 3,834
                             

2008

             
  U.S. Government    $ 4,282    $ 232    $ 27    $ 4,487
  FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities               —  
  State, county and municipal      1,591      32      —        1,623
                             
 

Total investment securities held to maturity

   $ 5,873    $ 264    $ 27    $ 6,110
                             

 

Corporate bonds are debt securities issued pursuant to the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program issued with the full faith and credit of the United States of America.

 

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The following table provides maturity information for investment securities as of December 31. Callable securities are assumed to mature on their earliest call date.

 

     2009    2008
     Cost    Fair Value    Cost    Fair Value

Investment securities available for sale

           

Maturing in:

           

One year or less

   $ 1,544,063    $ 1,554,657    $ 1,350,796    $ 1,375,709

One through five years

     1,226,202      1,233,604      1,705,774      1,739,791

Five through 10 years

     1,943      2,201      789      791

Over 10 years

     118,808      122,078      83,989      87,569

Equity securities

     2,377      16,622      3,291      15,461
                           

Total investment securities available for sale

   $ 2,893,393    $ 2,929,162    $ 3,144,639    $ 3,219,321
                           

Investment securities held to maturity

           

Maturing in:

           

One year or less

   $ —      $ —      $ 151    $ 151

One through five years

     151      152      —        —  

Five through 10 years

     3,306      3,497      5,557      5,761

Over 10 years

     146      185      165      198
                           

Total investment securities held to maturity

   $ 3,603    $ 3,834    $ 5,873    $ 6,110
                           

 

For each period presented, securities gains (losses) include the following:

 

     Year ended
December 31,
     2009     2008     2007

Gross gains on sales of investment securities available for sale

   $ 104      $ 8,390      $ 1,376

Other than temporary impairment losses on equity investments

     (615     (262     —  
                      

Total securities gains (losses)

   $ (511   $ 8,128      $ 1,376
                      

 

During 2009, BancShares recorded $615 in other than temporary impairment losses on equity securities once it was determined that recovery of the original purchase price was unlikely. During 2008, following the completion of Visa Inc.’s initial public offering, FCB’s former member-bank investment was converted into 486,905 shares of Class B common stock. Immediately thereafter, 188,238 shares of Visa Inc. Class B common stock were redeemed resulting in a gain of $8,051. The remaining 298,667 shares of Class B common stock are restricted and are carried at a fair value of $0.

 

In conjunction with the securitization and sale of revolving mortgage loans during 2005, BancShares retained a residual interest in the securitized assets in the form of an interest-only strip, which is included within investment securities available for sale and is carried at its estimated fair value. Quoted market prices are not readily available for residual interests, so the fair value was estimated based on various factors that may have an impact on the fair value of the residual interests. The assumed discount rate was 10 percent; the assumed rate of credit losses was 10 basis points; the estimated weighted average loan life was 3.3 years. Based on the assumptions used, the estimated fair value of the retained residual interest equaled $11,586 at the date of the securitization. The carrying value of the residual interest was $1,287 at December 31, 2009, $5,427 at December 31, 2008 and $9,390 at December 31, 2007.

 

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The following table provides information regarding securities with unrealized losses as of December 31:

 

     Less than 12 months    12 months or more    Total
     Fair
Value
   Unrealized
Losses
   Fair
Value
   Unrealized
Losses
   Fair
Value
   Unrealized
Losses

December 31, 2009

                 

Investment securities available for sale:

                 

U.S. Government

   $ 250,600    $ 666    $ —      $ —      $ 250,600    $ 666

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities

     25,608      621      2,434      131      28,042      752

State, county and municipal

     5,476      271      439      4      5,915      275
                                         

Total

   $ 281,684    $ 1,558    $ 2,873    $ 135    $ 284,557    $ 1,693
                                         

December 31, 2008

                 

Investment securities available for sale:

                 

U.S. Government

   $ 50,016    $ 1,013    $ 6    $ 3    $ 50,022    $ 1,016

Equity securities

     626      195      —        —        626      195

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities

     270      2      4,948      121      5,218      123

State, county and municipal

     267      9      364      72      631      81
                                         

Total

   $ 51,179    $ 1,219    $ 5,318    $ 196    $ 56,497    $ 1,415
                                         

Investment securities held to maturity:

                 

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities

   $ 16    $ —      $ 35    $ 27    $ 51    $ 27
                                         

Total

   $ 16    $ —      $ 35    $ 27    $ 51    $ 27
                                         

 

Investment securities with an aggregate fair value of $2,903 have had continuous unrealized losses for more than twelve months as of December 31, 2009. The aggregate amount of the unrealized losses among those 26 securities was $161 at December 31, 2009. These securities include FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed and state, county and municipal securities. None of the unrealized losses identified as of December 31, 2009 relate to the marketability of the securities or the issuer’s ability to honor redemption obligations. At December 31, 2009, BancShares had the ability and intent to retain these securities for a period of time sufficient to recover all unrealized losses. Therefore, none of the securities are deemed to be other than temporarily impaired.

 

Investment securities having an aggregate carrying value of $2,121,783 at December 31, 2009 and $1,883,365 at December 31, 2008, were pledged as collateral to secure public funds on deposit, to secure certain short-term borrowings and for other purposes as required by law.

 

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NOTE D – LOANS AND LEASES

 

Loans and leases outstanding at December 31 include the following:

 

     2009    2008

Loans covered under loss share agreements

   $ 1,173,020    $ —  

Loans and leases not covered under loss share agreements:

     

Real estate:

     

Construction and land development

     622,354      778,315

Commercial mortgage

     4,552,078      4,343,809

Residential mortgage

     864,704      894,802

Revolving mortgage

     2,147,223      1,911,852

Other mortgage

     158,187      149,478
             

Total real estate loans

     8,344,546      8,078,256

Commercial and industrial

     1,832,670      1,885,358

Consumer

     941,986      1,233,075

Lease financing

     330,713      353,933

Other

     195,084      99,264
             

Total loans and leases not covered under loss share agreements

     11,644,999      11,649,886
             

Total loans and leases

   $ 12,818,019    $ 11,649,886
             

 

     December 31, 2009
     Impaired
at
acquisition
date
   All other
acquired
loans
   Total

Loans covered under loss share agreements:

        

Real estate:

        

Construction and land development

   $ 22,700    $ 283,342    $ 306,042

Commercial mortgage

     36,820      553,579      590,399

Residential mortgage

     8,828      143,481      152,309

Other mortgage

     331      21,307      21,638
                    

Total real estate loans

     68,679      1,001,709      1,070,388

Commercial and industrial

     5,958      89,273      95,231

Consumer

     255      4,259      4,514

Other

     476      2,411      2,887
                    

Total loans covered under loss share agreements

   $ 75,368    $ 1,097,652    $ 1,173,020
                    

 

Contractual loan payments receivable, estimates of amounts not expected to be collected, other fair value adjustments and the resulting fair values of acquired loans impaired at acquisition date and all other acquired loans as of the acquisition dates are provided in the following tables:

 

TVB impaired at acquisition date:

  

Contractual principal payments receivable

   $ 160,207

Non-accretable estimate of contractual principal payments not expected to be collected

     93,547
      

Carrying value

   $ 66,660
      

TVB all other acquired loans:

  

Contractual principal payments receivable

   $ 1,033,379

Fair value discount on loans

     244,456
      

Carrying value

   $ 788,923
      

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

VB loans impaired at acquisition date:

  

Contractual principal payments receivable

   $ 136,870

Non-accretable estimate of contractual principal payments not expected to be collected

     103,905
      

Carrying value

   $ 32,965
      

VB all other acquired loans:

  

Contractual principal payments receivable

   $ 502,465

Fair value discount on loans

     78,435
      

Carrying value

   $ 424,030
      

 

Contractual loan payments receivable, estimates of amounts not expected to be collected, other fair value adjustments and the resulting fair values of acquired loans that were impaired at acquisition date and all other acquired loans as of December 31, 2009 are provided in the following table:

 

Impaired loans at acquisition date:

  

Contractual principal payments receivable

   $ 200,310

Non-accretable estimate of contractual principal payments not expected to be collected

     124,942
      

Carrying value

   $ 75,368
      

All other acquired loans:

  

Contractual principal payments receivable

   $ 1,418,375

Fair value discount on loans

     320,723
      

Carrying value

   $ 1,097,652
      

 

Income on acquired loans that are not impaired at acquisition date is recognized in the same manner as loans impaired at acquisition date. A portion of the fair value discount on acquired non-impaired loans has been ascribed as an accretable yield that is accreted into interest income over the estimated remaining life of the loans. The remaining nonaccretable difference represents cash flows not expected to be collected.

 

The following table documents changes in the carrying value of acquired loans impaired at acquisition date during 2009:

 

Balance, December 31, 2008

   $ —     

Fair value of acquired impaired loans

     99,625   

Reductions for repayments, foreclosures and decreases in fair value

     (24,257
        

Balance, December 31, 2009

   $ 75,368   
        

 

The following table provides information on impaired loans, exclusive of those noncovered loans evaluated collectively as a homogeneous group. For each period presented, all impaired loans were classified as nonaccrual.

 

     December 31,
2009
   December 31,
2008

Impaired loans:

     

Covered under loss share agreements

   $ 116,446    $ —  

Not covered under loss share agreements

     50,797      38,882
             

Total

   $ 167,243    $ 38,882
             

Allowances related to impaired loans

   $ 9,611    $ 6,747

Noncovered impaired loans with no allowances

     9,902      —  

 

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

In conjunction with the securitization and sale of $256,232 of revolving mortgage loans during 2005, BancShares established a servicing asset that represented the estimated fair value of the right to service the loans that were securitized and sold. This asset is being amortized over the estimated servicing life. During 2009, BancShares acquired the right to service SBA loans that had previously been sold by TVB. The asset was recorded at its fair value and is being amortized over the estimated servicing life.

 

     2009     2008     2007  

Carrying value of servicing asset at January 1

   $ 417      $ 559      $ 936   

Amortization expense recognized during the year

     (1,648     (142     (187

Impairment recognized during the year

     —          —          (190 )

Acquisition of SBA servicing asset

     5,783        —          —     
                        

Carrying value of servicing asset at December 31

   $ 4,552      $ 417      $ 559   
                        

 

At December 31, 2009, 25.1 percent of noncovered loans and leases were to customers in medical-related fields, compared to 23.5 percent at December 31, 2008. There were no foreign loans or loans to finance highly leveraged transactions during 2009 or 2008.

 

Substantially all noncovered loans and leases are to customers domiciled within BancShares’ principal market areas. The loans acquired during 2009 that are covered under loss share agreements include borrowers that are not within the principal market areas of the originating banks.

 

At December 31, 2009 noncovered loans totaling $3,579,503 were pledged to secure debt obligations, compared to $3,301,903 at December 31, 2008.

 

Nonperforming loans and other risk elements are summarized below:

 

     December 31,
     2009    2008

Nonaccrual loans and leases:

     

Covered under loss share agreements

   $ 116,446    $ —  

Not covered under loss share agreements

     58,417      39,361

Restructured loans:

     

Covered under loss share agreements

     10,013      —  

Not covered under loss share agreements

     55,025      2,349
             

Nonperforming loans and leases

   $ 239,901    $ 41,710
             

Loans and leases 90 days or more past due and still accruing (covered and noncovered)

   $ 27,766    $ 22,459

Other real estate owned:

     

Covered under loss share agreements

   $ 93,774      —  

Not covered under loss share agreements

     40,607      29,956

 

Interest income on covered and noncovered nonperforming loans that would have been recorded had these loans been performing was $4,172, $1,275 and $1,200 respectively, during 2009, 2008 and 2007. Interest income recognized on nonperforming loans was $3,746, $797 and $465 during the respective periods.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

In each period, BancShares originated much of its residential mortgage loan production through correspondent institutions. Loan sale activity for 2009, 2008 and 2007 is summarized below:

 

     2009    2008    2007

Loans held for sale at December 31

   $ 67,381    $ 69,399    $ 75,822

For the year ended December 31:

        

Loans sold

     753,172      482,296      508,224

Net gain (loss) on sale of loans

     8,801      5,862      5,482

 

NOTE E—ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN AND LEASE LOSSES

 

Activity in the allowance for loan and lease losses is summarized as follows:

 

Balance at December 31, 2006

   $ 132,004   

Provision for loan and lease losses

     32,939   

Loans and leases charged-off

     (32,690

Loans and leases recovered

     4,721   
        

Net charge-offs

     (27,969
        

Balance at December 31, 2007

     136,974   
        

Provision for loan and lease losses

     65,926   

Loans and leases charged-off

     (50,081

Loans and leases recovered

     4,750   
        

Net charge-offs

     (45,331
        

Balance at December 31, 2008

     157,569   
        

Provision for loan and lease losses

     79,364   

Loans and leases charged-off

     (69,354

Loans and leases recovered

     4,703   
        

Net charge-offs

     (64,651
        

Balance at December 31, 2009

   $ 172,282   
        

 

The average recorded investment in impaired loans during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 was $88,183, $30,920 and $10,844, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, BancShares recognized cash basis interest income on those impaired loans of $638, $619 and $391, respectively.

 

NOTE F—PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT

 

Major classifications of premises and equipment at December 31 are summarized as follows:

 

     2009    2008

Land

   $ 183,319    $ 177,446

Premises and leasehold improvements

     740,397      704,766

Furniture and equipment

     353,828      320,487
             

Total

     1,277,544      1,202,699

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

     440,462      403,790
             

Total premises and equipment

   $ 837,082    $ 798,909
             

 

There were no premises pledged to secure borrowings at December 31, 2009 and 2008.

 

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

BancShares leases certain premises and equipment under various lease agreements that provide for payment of property taxes, insurance and maintenance costs. Operating leases frequently provide for one or more renewal options on the same basis as current rental terms. However, certain leases require increased rentals under cost of living escalation clauses. Some leases also provide purchase options.

 

Future minimum rental commitments for noncancellable operating leases with initial or remaining terms of one or more years consisted of the following at December 31, 2009:

 

Year Ending December 31:

  

2010

   $ 15,812

2011

     13,735

2012

     11,521

2013

     8,205

2014

     6,583

Thereafter

     54,798
      

Total minimum payments

   $ 110,654
      

 

Total rent expense for all operating leases amounted to $19,922 in 2009, $19,096 in 2008 and $18,034 in 2007, net of rent income, which totaled $2,014, $1,524 and $1,930 during 2009, 2008 and 2007.

 

NOTE G—DEPOSITS

 

Deposits at December 31 are summarized as follows:

 

     2009    2008

Demand

   $ 3,215,414    $ 2,652,898

Checking With Interest

     1,740,758      1,489,496

Money market accounts

     4,185,168      3,546,649

Savings

     640,325      535,387

Time

     5,555,902      5,489,333
             

Total deposits

   $ 15,337,567    $ 13,713,763
             

 

Time deposits with a minimum denomination of $100 totaled $2,639,326 and $2,469,833 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

At December 31, 2009 the scheduled maturities of time deposits were:

 

2010

   $ 4,611,676

2011

     683,989

2012

     110,774

2013

     63,260

2014

     79,214

Thereafter

     6,989
      

Total time deposits

   $ 5,555,902
      

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

NOTE H—SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

 

Short-term borrowings at December 31 are as follows:

 

     2009    2008

Master notes

   $ 395,577    $ 472,573

Repurchase agreements

     91,583      103,878

Notes payable to Federal Home Loan Banks

     128,761      50,000

Federal funds purchased

     12,551      10,551

Other

     13,933      10,026
             

Total short-term borrowings

   $ 642,405    $ 647,028
             

 

At December 31, 2009, BancShares and its subsidiaries had unused credit lines allowing access to overnight borrowings of up to $500,000 on an unsecured basis. Additionally, under borrowing arrangements with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, the banking subsidiaries have access to an aggregate of $1,076,254 on a secured basis.

 

NOTE I—LONG-TERM OBLIGATIONS

 

Long-term obligations at December 31 include:

 

     2009    2008

Junior subordinated debenture at 8.05 percent maturing March 5, 2028

   $ 154,640    $ 154,640

Junior subordinated debenture at 3-month LIBOR plus 1.75 percent maturing June 30, 2036

     118,557      118,557

Subordinated notes payable at 5.125 percent maturing June 1, 2015

     125,000      125,000

Obligations under capitalized leases extending to July 2026

     14,282      4,762

Notes payable to Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta with rates ranging from 2.85 percent to 4.12 percent and maturities ranging from October 2010 to September 2018

     330,000      330,000

Notes payable to the Federal Home Loan Bank of Seattle with rates ranging from 4.74 percent to 5.38 percent and maturities ranging from July 2012 to July 2017 (inclusive of unamortized premium of $4,721)

     54,721      —  

Note payable at 7.50 percent maturing on October 17, 2022

     166      173
             

Total long-term obligations

   $ 797,366    $ 733,132
             

 

The 8.05 percent junior subordinated debenture issued in 1998 (the 1998 Debenture) is held by FCB/NC Capital Trust I. FCB/NC Capital Trust I purchased the 1998 Debenture with the proceeds from the $150,000 in 8.05 percent trust preferred capital securities issued in 1998 (the 1998 Preferred Securities). The 1998 Debenture is the sole asset of the trust. The 1998 Preferred Securities are redeemable in whole or in part after March 1, 2008 at a premium that declines until 2018, when the redemption price equals the par value.

 

The variable rate junior subordinated debenture issued in 2006 (the 2006 Debenture) is held by FCB/NC Capital Trust III. FCB/NC Capital Trust III purchased the 2006 Debenture with the proceeds from the $115,000 in adjustable rate trust preferred securities issued in 2006 (the 2006 Preferred Securities). The 2006 Debenture is the sole asset of the trust. The 2006 Preferred Securities are redeemable in whole or in part after June 30, 2011.

 

The 2006 Preferred Securities and the 2006 Debenture were issued with a variable rate of 175 basis points above the 3-month LIBOR. BancShares has entered into interest rate swaps to synthetically convert the variable rate coupon on the securities to a fixed rate of 7.125 percent for a period ending June 30, 2011 and a fixed rate of 5.50 percent for the period from July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2016.

 

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

FCB/NC Capital Trust I and FCB/NC Capital Trust III are grantor trusts established by BancShares for the purpose of issuing trust preferred capital securities, and BancShares owns 100 percent of the common capital securities of each of the trusts. BancShares’ obligations, taken collectively, constitute full and unconditional guarantees, on a subordinated basis, of the obligations of FCB/NC Capital Trust I and FCB/NC Capital Trust III under the 1998 Preferred Securities and the 2006 Preferred Securities issued by them.

 

The subordinated notes issued during 2005 are unsecured obligations of FCB and are junior to existing and future senior indebtedness and obligations to depositors and general or secured creditors.

 

Notes payable to the Federal Home Loan Banks of Atlanta and Seattle are secured by investment securities, FHLB stock and loans and may be subject to prepayment penalties.

 

Long-term obligations maturing in each of the five years subsequent to December 31, 2009 include:

 

2010

   $ 60,620

2011

     30,798

2012

     67,300

2013

     55,946

2014

     748

Thereafter

     581,954
      

Total long-term obligations

   $ 797,366
      

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

NOTE J—ESTIMATED FAIR VALUES

 

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time based on relevant market information and information about each financial instrument. Where information regarding the fair value of a financial instrument is available, those values are used, as is the case with investment securities and residential mortgage loans. In these cases, an open market exists in which those financial instruments are actively traded.

 

Because no market exists for many financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates. For those financial instruments with a fixed interest rate, an analysis of the related cash flows was the basis for estimating fair values. The expected cash flows were then discounted to the valuation date using an appropriate discount rate. The discount rates used represent the rates under which similar transactions would be currently negotiated. For financial instruments with fixed and variable rates, fair value estimates also consider the impact of liquidity discounts appropriate as of the measurement date.

 

     December 31, 2009    December 31, 2008
     Carrying    Fair    Carrying    Fair
     Value    Value    Value    Value

Cash and due from banks

   $ 480,242    $ 480,242    $ 593,375    $ 593,375

Overnight investments

     723,260      723,260      174,616      174,616

Investment securities available for sale

     2,929,162      2,929,162      3,219,321      3,219,321

Investment securities held to maturity

     3,603      3,834      5,873      6,110

Loans held for sale

     67,381      67,381      69,399      69,399

Loans covered under loss share agreements, net of allowance for loan and lease losses

     1,169,520      1,169,520      —        —  

Loans and leases not covered under loss share agreements, net of allowance for loan and lease losses

     11,476,217      11,060,532      11,492,317      12,001,307

FDIC receivable for loss share agreements

     249,842      249,842      —        —  

Income earned not collected

     60,684      60,684      72,029      72,029

Stock issued by:

           

Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta

     47,361      47,361      46,456      46,456

Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco

     5,592      5,592      —        —  

Federal Home Loan Bank of Seattle

     4,490      4,490      —        —  

SBA servicing asset

           —        —  

Deposits

     15,337,567      15,396,423      13,713,763      13,810,690

Short-term borrowings

     642,405      642,405      647,028      647,028

Long-term obligations

     797,366      788,004      733,132      735,098

Accrued interest payable

     37,881      37,881      50,923      50,923

 

At December 31, 2009 and 2008, other assets includes $57,443 and $46,456 of stock issued by various Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLB). The FHLB stock is redeemable only through the issuer based on each FHLB’s ability to redeem its stock and other redemption practices. The FHLB stock is carried at its par value. Investments in FHLB stock are considered long-term investments, and fair value is based on the ultimate recoverability of par value. Management has concluded that the investments in FHLB stock were not other-than-temporarily impaired as of December 31, 2009.

 

For off-balance sheet commitments and contingencies, carrying amounts are reasonable estimates of the fair values for such financial instruments. Carrying amounts include unamortized fee income and, in some cases, reserves for any credit losses from those financial instruments. These amounts are not material to BancShares’ financial position.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Among BancShares’ assets and liabilities, investment securities available for sale and interest rate swaps accounted for as cash flow hedges are reported at their fair values on a recurring basis. Certain other assets are adjusted to their fair value on a nonrecurring basis, including loans held for sale, which are carried at the lower of cost or market. Impaired loans, OREO, goodwill and other intangible assets are periodically tested for impairment. Loans held for investment, deposits, short-term borrowings and long-term obligations are not reported at fair value. BancShares did not elect to voluntarily report any assets or liabilities at fair value.

 

For assets and liabilities carried at fair value, the following table provides fair value information as of December 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

          Fair value measurements at December 31, using:

Description

   Fair value    Quoted prices in
active markets for
identical assets
and liabilities
(Level 1 inputs)
   Quoted prices for
similar assets and
liabilities

(Level 2 inputs)
   Significant
unobservable inputs

(Level 3 inputs)

At December 31, 2009

           

Assets measured at fair value

           

Investment securities available for sale

           

U.S. Government

   $ 2,287,423    $ 2,287,423    $ —      $ —  

Corporate bonds

     485,667      485,667      —        —  

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities

     130,338      —        130,338      —  

Equity securities

     16,622      16,622         —  

State, county and municipal

     6,813      —        6,813      —  

Other

     2,299      1,012      —        1,287
                           

Total

   $ 2,929,162    $ 2,790,724    $ 137,151    $ 1,287
                           

Liabilities measured at fair value

           

Interest rate swaps accounted for as cash flow hedges

   $ 5,367    $ —      $ 5,367    $ —  

At December 31, 2008

           

Assets measured at fair value

           

Investment securities available for sale

           

U.S. Government

   $ 3,112,428    $ 3,112,428    $ —      $ —  

FNMA, GNMA and FHLMC mortgage-backed securities

     82,952      —        82,952      —  

Equity securities

     15,461      15,461      —        —  

State, county and municipal

     3,053      —        3,053      —  

Other

     5,427      —        —        5,427
                           

Total

   $ 3,219,321    $ 3,127,889    $ 86,005    $ 5,427
                           

Liabilities measured at fair value

           

Interest rate swap accounted for as cash flow hedge

   $ 10,668    $ —      $ 10,668    $ —  

 

Prices for US Government securities, corporate bonds and equity securities are readily available in the active markets in which those securities are traded, and the resulting fair values are shown in the ‘Level 1 input’ column. Prices for mortgage-backed securities and state, county and municipal securities are obtained for similar securities, and the resulting fair values are shown in the ‘Level 2 input’ column. Prices for a residual interest that was retained from a securitization

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

transaction, are determined based on various assumptions that are not observable. The fair value for this investment is shown in the ‘Level 3 input’ column. With respect to the residual interest in the asset securitization, the assumed prepayment speed, discount rate and credit spread are not observable in the market due to illiquidity and the uniqueness of the underlying assets.

 

Under the terms of the existing cash flow hedges, BancShares pays a fixed payment to the counterparty in exchange for receipt of a variable payment that is determined based on the 3-month LIBOR rate. The fair value of the cash flow hedge, which is included in other liabilities, is based on projected LIBOR rates for the duration of the hedge, values that, while observable in the market, are subject to adjustment due to pricing considerations for the specific instrument.

 

For those investment securities available for sale with fair values that are determined by reliance on significant unobservable inputs, the following table identifies the factors causing the change in fair values for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

     Investment securities available
for sale with fair values based
on significant unobservable
inputs
 

Description

       2009             2008      

Beginning balance, January 1

   $ 5,427      $ 9,924   

Total gains (losses), realized or unrealized:

    

Included in earnings

     —          —     

Included in other comprehensive income

     —          118   

Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements, net

     (4,140     (4,615

Transfers in/out of Level 3

     —          —     
                

Ending balance, December 31

   $ 1,287      $ 5,427   
                

 

No gains or losses were reported for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 that relate to fair values estimated based on significant unobservable inputs.

 

Certain assets and liabilities are carried at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Loans held for sale are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or fair value and are therefore carried at fair value only when fair value is less than the asset cost. Certain impaired loans are also carried at fair value. For assets and liabilities carried at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, the following table provides fair value information as of December 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

          Fair value measurements at December 31 using:

Description

   Fair value    Quoted prices in
active markets for
identical assets and
liabilities

(Level 1 inputs)
   Quoted prices for
similar assets and
liabilities

(Level 2 inputs)
   Significant
unobservable inputs
(Level 3 inputs)

At December 31, 2009

           

Loans held for sale

   $ 67,381    $ —      $ —      $ 67,381

Impaired loans:

           

Covered under loss share agreements

     112,946            112,946

Not covered under loss share agreements

     44,686            44,686

At December 31, 2008

           

Loans held for sale

     69,399            69,399

Impaired loans not covered under loss share agreements

     32,135            32,135

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

The values of loans held for sale are based on prices observed for similar pools of loans, appraisals provided by third parties and prices determined based on terms of investor purchase commitments. The value of impaired loans is determined by either the collateral value or by the discounted present value of the expected cash flows.

 

Other real estate includes certain foreclosed assets that are measured and reported at fair value using Level 2 inputs for observable market data or Level 3 inputs for valuations based on nonobservable criteria. During 2009, foreclosures of OREO not covered under loss share agreements totaled $44,617, all of which was valued using Level 3 inputs. In connection with the measurement and initial recognition of noncovered foreclosed assets, BancShares recognized charge-offs totaling $18,493. Based on updates to Level 3 inputs, noncovered foreclosed property with a fair value of $11,135 as of December 31, 2009 incurred writedowns that totaled $2,903 during 2009. During 2009, foreclosures of other real estate covered under loss share agreements totaled $22,763. In connection with the measurement and initial recognition of foreclosed assets covered under loss share agreements, BancShares recorded writedowns totaling $255.

 

The calculation of allowance for impaired loans is highly dependent on collateral valuations. Since all impaired loans at December 31, 2009 are secured by real estate, fair values are based on appraised values with adjustments for various factors including estimated holding costs. Updated appraisals are generally obtained at or near the time of foreclosure. Given the significant instability in real estate markets, particularly in the Atlanta, Georgia area and in Southwest Florida, the valuations are subject to significant variation based on further reductions or recoveries of property values.

 

NOTE K—EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

 

BancShares sponsors benefit plans for its qualifying employees including a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan, a 401(k) savings plan and an enhanced 401(k) savings plan. These plans are qualified under the Internal Revenue Code. BancShares also maintains agreements with certain executives that provide supplemental benefits that are paid upon death or separation from service at an agreed-upon age.

 

Defined Benefit Pension Plan

 

Employees who were hired prior to April 1, 2007 and who qualify under length of service and other requirements may participate in a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan. Under the plan, benefits are based on years of service and average earnings. The policy is to fund amounts approximating the maximum amount that is deductible for federal income tax purposes. BancShares contributed $35,000 to the plan in 2009 and $20,000 to the plan in 2007. No contribution was made during 2008. The plan’s assets consist of investments in FCB’s common trust funds, which include listed common stocks and fixed income securities, as well as investments in mid-cap, REIT and international stocks as well as TIPS and other fixed income securities through unaffiliated money managers.

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

Obligations and Funded Status

 

The following table provides the change in benefit obligation and plan assets and the funded status of the plan at December 31.

 

      2009     2008  

Change in Benefit Obligation

    

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

   $ 360,021      $ 307,515   

Service cost

     12,661        11,750   

Interest cost

     21,900        20,384   

Actuarial loss (gain)

     (1,221     30,740   

Benefits paid

     (10,989     (10,368
                

Benefit obligation at end of year

   $ 382,372      $ 360,021   
                

Change in Plan Assets

    

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

   $ 287,018      $ 382,180   

Actual return (loss) on plan assets

     76,382        (84,794

Employer contributions

     35,000        —     

Benefits paid

     (10,989     (10,368
                

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

     387,411        287,018   
                

Funded status at end of year

   $ 5,039      $ (73,003
                

 

The amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31 consist of:

 

     2009    2008  

Other asset

   $ 5,039    $ —     

Other liability

     —        (73,003
               

Net asset (liability) recognized

   $ 5,039    $ (73,003
               

 

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income at December 31 consist of:

 

Net loss (gain)

   $ 69,075    $ 122,569

Less prior service cost

     1,817      2,027
             

Accumulated other comprehensive income, excluding income taxes

   $ 70,892    $ 124,596
             

 

The accumulated benefit obligation for the plan at December 31, 2009 and 2008 equaled $307,766 and $287,200, respectively. The plan uses a measurement date of December 31.

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

The following table shows the components of periodic benefit cost related to the pension plan for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007.

 

     2009     2008     2007  

Service cost

   $ 12,661      $ 11,750      $ 14,428   

Interest cost

     21,900        20,384        18,388   

Expected return on assets

     (27,713     (27,606     (25,716

Amortization of prior service cost

     210        210        266   

Amortization of net actuarial loss

     3,604        970        1,902   
                        

Total net periodic benefit cost, excluding curtailments

     10,662        5,708        9,268   

Curtailment cost

     —          —          763   
                        

Total net periodic benefit cost

   $ 10,662      $ 5,708      $ 10,031   
                        

 

The assumptions used to determine the benefit obligations as of December 31 are as follows:

 

       2009        2008  

Discount rate

     6.00      6.00

Rate of compensation increase

     4.50      4.50

 

The assumptions used to determine the net periodic benefit cost for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 are as follows:

 

     2009     2008     2007  

Discount rate

   6.00   6.25   5.75

Rate of compensation increase

   4.50   4.25   4.25

Expected long-term return on plan assets

   8.00   8.50   8.50

 

The estimated long-term rate of return on plan assets is used to calculate the value of plan assets over time. Due to significant reductions in the return on plan assets during 2008 of negative 22.0 percent and expectations for generally lower investment returns, the rate was adjusted downward to 8.0 percent for 2009. Returns on plan assets rebounded materially in 2009 to 24.0 percent. FCB’s methodology utilized to establish an appropriate long-term rate of return on plan assets consists of monitoring and aggregating the actual returns of the plan for various time horizons since 1995 as a predictor of probable future returns, modified as appropriate by estimates of future market conditions as such conditions may positively or negatively alter estimated future returns. The return on plan assets for the 15-year, 10-year and 5-year periods ended December 31, 2009 equaled 8.57 percent, 5.46 percent and 5.92 percent, respectively. Due to the 15-year average return of 8.57 percent coupled with expectations for generally modest returns over the next several years, the rate of return will remain at 8.0 percent for 2010.

 

Plan Assets

 

Investment decisions regarding the plan’s assets seek to achieve a favorable annual return through a diversified portfolio that will provide needed capital appreciation and cash flow to allow both current and future benefit obligations to be paid. The target asset mix may change if the objectives for the plan’s assets or risk tolerance change or if a major shift occurs in the expected long-term risk and reward characteristics of one or more asset classes.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

The fair values of pension plan assets at December 31, 2009 by asset category are as follows:

 

Asset Category

   Market Value
as of 12/31/09
   Quoted prices in
Active Markets
for Identifical
Assets (Level 1)
   Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
   2009
Target

Allocation
    Actual %
of Plan
Assets
 

Cash and equivalents

   $ 4,212    $ 4,212      —        —      1   1

Equity securities(a)

               55 - 65   61

Consumer discretionary

     29,501      29,501      —        —       

Consumer staples

     8,025      8,025      —        —       

Energy

     14,306      14,306      —        —       

Information technology

     39,414      39,414      —        —       

Telecommunication services

     4,800      4,800      —        —       

Financials

     25,269      25,269      —        —       

Utilities

     5,007      5,007      —        —       

Materials

     3,923      3,923      —        —       

Health care

     25,539      25,539      —        —       

Industrials

     22,897      22,897      —        —       

Rights

     36,320      36,320      —        —       

Mutual funds

     19,922      19,922      —        —       

Debt securities(b)

               34 - 44   38

Bond funds

     148,276      —        148,276      —       
                                        

Total pension assets

   $ 387,411    $ 239,135    $ 148,276    $ —      100   100
                                        

 

(a)   This category includes investments in listed equity securities of large, small and medium sized companies from listed industries.

 

(b)   This category represents investment grade bonds from diverse industries.

 

Cash Flows

 

During 2010, BancShares anticipates making contributions to the pension plan totaling $10,000. Following are estimated payments to pension plan participants in the indicated periods:

 

     Projected
Benefit
payments

2010

   $ 13,068

2011

     14,137

2012

     15,309

2013

     16,511

2014

     17,860

2015-2019

     116,186

 

401(k) Savings Plans

 

Certain employees are also eligible to participate in a 401(k) savings plan after 31 days of service through deferral of portions of their salary. Based on the employee’s contribution, BancShares matches up to 75 percent of the employee contribution. BancShares made participating contributions of $11,582, $8,229 and $6,863 during 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

At the end of 2007, current employees were given the option to participate in the defined benefit plan or elect to join an enhanced 401(k) savings plan. In addition to the employer match of the employee contributions, the enhanced 401(k) savings plan provides a guaranteed contribution to plan participants if they remain employed at the end of each calendar year. Employees electing to participate in the enhanced 401(k) savings plan and newly-hired employees were enrolled in the enhanced 401(k) savings plan beginning January 1, 2008. Employees who elected to enroll in the enhanced 401(k) savings plan discontinued the accrual of additional years of service under the defined benefit plan after January 1, 2008.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Additional Benefits for Executives and Directors and Officers of Acquired Entities

 

FCB and ISB have entered into contractual agreements with certain executives that provide payments for a period of ten years following separation from service at an agreed-upon age. These agreements also provide a death benefit in the event a participant dies before the term of the agreement ends. FCB has also assumed liability for contractual obligations to directors and officers of acquired entities.

 

The following table provides the accrued liability as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 and the changes in the accrued liability during the years then ended:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
         2009             2008      

Present value of accrued liability as of January 1

   $ 22,114      $ 17,928   

Benefit expense

     892        4,164   

Benefits paid

     (1,651     (1,388

Benefits forfeited

     (369     —     

Interest cost

     1,963        1,410   
                

Present value of accrued liability as of December 31

   $ 22,949      $ 22,114   
                

Discount rate at December 31

     6.00     6.00

 

NOTE L—NONINTEREST EXPENSE

 

Other noninterest expense for the years ended December 31 included the following:

 

     2009    2008    2007

Cardholder and merchant processing

   $ 42,605    $ 42,071    $ 41,882

Telecommunications

     11,314      12,061      10,501

Postage

     10,385      10,427      9,614

Cardholder reward programs

     8,457      9,323      12,529

Advertising

     8,111      8,098      7,499

Processing fees paid to third parties

     9,672      8,985      7,004

Courier service

     5,182      5,562      5,401

Legal

     5,425      6,308      6,410

Other

     56,742      58,038      59,844
                    

Total other noninterest expense

   $ 157,893    $ 160,873    $ 160,684
                    

 

NOTE M—INCOME TAXES

 

At December 31, income tax expense consisted of the following:

 

     2009    2008     2007

Current tax expense

       

Federal

   $ 25,668    $ 51,121      $ 53,794

State

     5,328      5,806        3,546
                     

Total current tax expense

     30,996      56,927        57,340
                     

Deferred tax expense (benefit)

       

Federal

     30,356      (8,111     941

State

     5,416      (270     656
                     

Total deferred tax expense (benefit)

     35,772      (8,381     1,597
                     

Total income tax expense

   $ 66,768    $ 48,546      $ 58,937
                     

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

Income tax expense differed from the amounts computed by applying the federal income tax rate of 35 percent to pretax income as a result of the following:

 

     2009     2008     2007  

Income taxes at statutory rates

   $ 64,085      $ 48,861      $ 58,644   

Increase (reduction) in income taxes resulting from:

      

Nontaxable income on loans, leases and investments, net of nondeductible expenses

     (1,556     (1,468     (1,419

State and local income taxes, including change in valuation allowance, net of federal income tax benefit

     6,984        3,598        2,731   

Tax credits

     (2,735     (2,342     (1,771

Other, net

     (10     (103     752   
                        

Total income tax expense

   $ 66,768      $ 48,546      $ 58,937   
                        

 

The net deferred tax asset (liability) included the following components at December 31:

 

     2009     2008  

Allowance for loan and lease losses

   $ 69,170      $ 63,231   

Executive separation from service agreements

     9,055        8,721   

State operating loss carryforward

     2,918        2,140   

Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge

     2,119        4,212   

Other

     9,133        8,111   
                

Gross deferred tax asset

     92,395        86,415   

Less valuation allowance

     2,972        2,324   
                

Deferred tax asset

     89,423        84,091   
                

Accelerated depreciation

     9,784        5,893   

Lease financing activities

     9,940        11,717   

Pension liability (asset)

     2,292        (14,511

Net unrealized gains (losses) included in comprehensive income

     13,751        29,206   

Net deferred loan fees and costs

     4,609        6,088   

Intangible asset

     12,329        10,878   

Gain on acquisitions, deferred for tax purposes

     43,141        —     

Other

     1,981        —     
                

Deferred tax liability

     97,827        49,271   
                

Net deferred tax (liability) asset

   $ (8,404   $ 34,820   
                

 

The valuation allowance was necessary to reduce BancShares’ gross state deferred tax asset to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized and amounted to $2,972 and $2,324 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

With few exceptions, BancShares and its subsidiaries are no longer subject to U.S. federal, or state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2006.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

The following table reconciles the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized income tax benefits. Unrecognized state tax benefits are not adjusted for the impact of federal taxes.

 

     2009     2008  

Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year

   $ 10,474      $ 11,340   

Additions based on tax positions related to current year

     1,740        2,456   

Additions based on tax positions related to prior years

     1,455        1,489   

Reductions based on lapse of statute

     (3,013     (4,811

Settlements

     —          —     
                

Unrecognized tax benefits at end of year

   $ 10,656      $ 10,474   
                

 

At December 31, 2009 and 2008, unrecognized tax benefits includes $8,998 and $8,775 respectively, of tax positions for which the ultimate deductibility is highly certain but for which there is uncertainty about the timing of such deductibility. Additions based on tax positions related to prior years primarily relates to interest. Because of the impact of deferred tax accounting, other than interest and penalties, the disallowance of the shorter deductibility period would not affect the annual effective tax rate but would accelerate the payment of cash to the taxing authority to an earlier period.

 

The total amount of unrecognized income tax benefits as of December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate is $1,657 and $1,699 (net of the federal benefit on state tax issues), respectively.

 

BancShares recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in tax expense. Accrued interest and penalties on unrecognized income tax benefits totaled $566 and $588 as of December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 respectively.

 

NOTE N—TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PERSONS

 

BancShares, FCB and ISB have had, and expect to have in the future, banking transactions in the ordinary course of business with directors, officers and their associates (Related Persons). An analysis of changes in the aggregate amounts of loans to Related Persons for the year ended December 31, 2009 is as follows:

 

Balance at beginning of year

   $ 33,127

New loans

     43

Repayments

     4,362
      

Balance at end of year

   $ 28,808
      

 

In addition to these outstanding loan balances there is $16,829 available to Related Persons in unfunded loan commitments.

 

BancShares provides processing and operational services to other financial institutions. Certain of these institutions are deemed to be Related Persons since significant shareholders of BancShares are also deemed to be significant shareholders of the other banks. During 2009, 2008 and 2007, BancShares received $31,242, $31,763 and $29,234, respectively, for services rendered to these Related Persons, substantially all of which is included in fees from processing services and relates to data processing services. The amount recorded from the largest individual institution totaled $19,652, $19,564 and $17,960 for 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

Other expense includes $2,854, $3,499 and $3,773 in legal expense incurred during 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, for the firm that serves as BancShares’ general counsel. The senior attorney of that firm is a Related Person since he is member of BancShares’ board of directors.

 

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(dollars in thousands)

 

Investment securities available for sale includes an investment in a financial institution controlled by Related Persons. This investment had a carrying value of $14,633 and $12,759 at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. For each period, the investment had a cost of $508. Short-term borrowings includes $13,700 in federal funds purchased from financial institutions controlled by Related Persons at December 31, 2008. There were no federal funds purchased from related persons at December 31, 2009.

 

NOTE O—DERIVATIVES

 

At December 31, 2009, BancShares had two interest rate swaps that qualify as cash flow hedges under US GAAP. The fair values of these derivatives are included in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets and in the net change in other liabilities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.

 

The interest rate swaps are used for interest rate risk management purposes and convert variable-rate exposure on outstanding debt to a fixed rate. The interest rate swaps each have a notional amount of $115,000, representing the amount of variable-rate trust preferred capital securities issued during 2006. The 2006 interest rate swap hedges interest payments through June 2011 and requires fixed-rate payments by BancShares at 7.125 percent in exchange for variable-rate payments of 175 basis points above 3-month LIBOR, which is equal to the interest paid to the holders of the trust preferred capital securities. The 2009 interest rate swap hedges interest payments from July 2011 through June 2016 and requires fixed-rate payments by BancShares at 5.50 percent in exchange for variable-rate payments of 175 basis points above 3-month LIBOR. As of December 31, 2009, collateral with a fair value of $9,529 was pledged to secure the existing obligation under the interest rate swaps. For both swaps, settlement occurs quarterly.

 

     December 31, 2009     December 31, 2008
     Notional
amount
   Estimated fair value
of (asset) liability
    Notional
amount
   Estimated fair
value of liability

2006 interest rate swap hedging fixed rate exposure on trust preferred capital securities 2006-2011

   $ 115,000    $ 7,424      $ 115,000    $ 10,668

2009 interest rate swap hedging fixed rate exposure on trust preferred capital securities 2011-2016

     115,000      (2,057     —        —  
                    
      $ 5,367         $ 10,668
                    

 

For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss due to changes in the fair value of the derivative hedging instrument is included in other comprehensive income, while the ineffective portion, representing the excess of the cumulative change in the fair value of the derivative over the cumulative change in expected future discounted cash flows on the hedged transaction, is recorded in the consolidated income statement. BancShares’ interest rate swaps have been fully effective since inception. Therefore, changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps have had no impact on net income. For the year ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, BancShares recognized interest expense of $5,234 and $2,168 respectively, resulting from the interest rate swaps, none of which relates to ineffectiveness.

 

The following table discloses activity in accumulated other comprehensive income related to the interest rate swaps during the year ended December 31, 2009 and 2008.

 

     2009     2008     2007  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss resulting from interest rate swaps as of January 1

   $ (6,456   $ (3,240   $ (1,085

Comprehensive income recognized during year ended December 31

     3,208        (3,216     (2,155
                        

Accumulated other comprehensive loss resulting from interest rate swaps as of December 31

   $ (3,248   $ (6,456   $ (3,240
                        

 

BancShares monitors the credit risk of the interest rate swap counterparty.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

NOTE P—GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

 

US GAAP requires that goodwill be tested annual for impairment. The goodwill impairment test requires a two-step method to evaluate and calculate impairment. The first step requires estimation of each reporting unit’s fair value. If the fair value exceeds the carrying value, no further testing is required. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, a second step is performed to determine whether an impairment charge must be recorded and, if so, the amount of such charge.

 

BancShares performs annual impairment tests as of July 31. For 2009, based on the results of the first step, there was no indication of potential impairment for FCB’s goodwill. However, the first test indicated that an impairment of ISB’s $793 of goodwill was possible. The evaluation of impairment performed in the second step included the preparation of a fair value balance sheet for ISB to confirm whether impairment exists. Based on the fair value estimates considered in the analysis, including fair value discounts recognized on assets that are not carried at fair value, goodwill was not impaired for ISB. Therefore, no impairment of goodwill was recorded during 2009 as a result of the annual goodwill impairment test.

 

There was no goodwill activity during 2009 and 2008. Goodwill totaled $102,625 at December 31, 2009 and 2008 with no impairment recorded during 2009, 2008 or 2007.

 

The following information relates to other intangible assets, all of which are being amortized over their estimated useful lives:

 

     2009     2008  

Balance, January 1

   $ 3,810      $ 5,858   

Intangible generated by Temecula Valley Bank purchase

     1,376        —     

Intangible generated by Venture Bank purchase

     3,021        —     

Other

     94        —     

Amortization

     (1,940     (2,048
                

Balance, December 31

   $ 6,361      $ 3,810   
                

 

Based on current estimated useful lives and current carrying values, BancShares anticipates amortization expense for intangible assets in subsequent periods will be:

 

2010

   $ 2,432

2011

     1,146

2012

     1,101

2013

     1,067

2014

     615
      
   $ 6,361
      

 

NOTE Q—REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS

 

Various regulatory agencies have established guidelines that evaluate capital adequacy based on risk-weighted assets. An additional capital computation evaluates tangible capital based on tangible assets. Minimum capital requirements set forth by the regulatory agencies require a Tier 1 capital ratio of no less than 4 percent of risk-weighted assets, a total capital ratio of no less than 8 percent of risk-weighted assets, and a leverage capital ratio of no less than 3 percent of tangible assets. To meet the FDIC’s well-capitalized standards, the Tier 1 and total capital ratios must be at least 6 percent and 10 percent, respectively. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements may result in certain actions by regulators that could have a direct material effect on the consolidated financial statements.

 

Based on the most recent notifications from its regulators, FCB and ISB are well-capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. Management believes that as of December 31, 2009 BancShares, FCB and ISB met all capital adequacy requirements to which they are subject and was not aware of any conditions or events that would affect FCB’s and ISB’s well-capitalized status.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Following is an analysis of capital ratios for BancShares, FCB and ISB as of December 31, 2009 and 2008:

 

     December 31, 2009     December 31, 2008  
     Amount    Ratio     Requirement for
Well-Capitalized
    Amount    Ratio     Requirement for
Well-Capitalized
 

BancShares

              

Tier 1 capital

   $ 1,752,384    13.34   6.00   $ 1,649,675    13.20   6.00

Total capital

     2,047,684    15.59      10.00        1,935,993    15.49      10.00   

Leverage capital

     1,752,384    9.54      5.00        1,649,675    9.88      5.00   

FCB

              

Tier 1 capital

     1,349,972    11.74      6.00        1,262,950    12.62      6.00   

Total capital

     1,609,388    13.99      10.00        1,513,045    15.12      10.00   

Leverage capital

     1,349,972    8.63      5.00        1,262,950    9.17      5.00   

ISB

              

Tier 1 capital

     291,897    12.31      6.00        273,637    11.55      6.00   

Total capital

     334,393    14.11      10.00        311,887    13.16      10.00   

Leverage capital

     291,897    11.35      5.00        273,637    10.71      5.00   

 

The Board of Directors of FCB may declare a dividend on a portion of its undivided profits as it deems appropriate, subject to the requirements of the FDIC and the General Statutes of North Carolina, without prior regulatory approval. As of December 31, 2009, the amount was $1,118,633. However, to preserve its well-capitalized status, the maximum amount of the dividend was limited to $459,233. Dividends declared by FCB amounted to $60,509 in 2009, $54,788 in 2008 and $43,830 in 2007.

 

BancShares and its banking subsidiaries are subject to various requirements imposed by state and federal banking statutes and regulations, including regulations requiring the maintenance of noninterest-bearing reserve balances at the Federal Reserve Bank. Banks are allowed to reduce the required balances by the amount of vault cash. For 2009 the requirements averaged $141,025 for FCB and $9,090 for ISB.

 

NOTE R—COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

In order to meet the financing needs of its customers, BancShares and its subsidiaries have financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. These instruments involve elements of credit, interest rate or liquidity risk.

 

Commitments to extend credit are legally binding agreements to lend to customers. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of fees. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future liquidity requirements. Established credit standards control the credit-risk exposure associated with these commitments. In some cases, BancShares requires that collateral be pledged to secure the commitment. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, BancShares had unused commitments totaling $5,180,070 and $5,165,588 respectively.

 

Standby letters of credit are commitments guaranteeing performance of a customer to a third party. Those guarantees are issued primarily to support public and private borrowing arrangements. In order to minimize its exposure, BancShares’ credit policies govern the issuance of standby letters of credit. At December 31, 2009 and 2008, BancShares had standby letters of credit amounting to $73,749 and $77,475, respectively.

 

BancShares and various subsidiaries have been named as defendants in various legal actions arising from their normal business activities in which damages in various amounts are claimed. Although the amount of any ultimate liability with respect to such matters cannot be determined, in the opinion of management, any such liability will not have a material effect on BancShares’ consolidated financial statements.

 

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FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

NOTE S—SEGMENT DISCLOSURES

 

BancShares conducts its banking operations through its two wholly-owned subsidiaries, FCB and ISB. Although FCB and ISB offer similar products and services to customers, each entity operates in distinct geographic markets, except California and Washington, and has separate management groups. Additionally, the financial results and trends of ISB reflect the de novo nature of its growth.

 

FCB operates from a single charter from its branch network in North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee and Washington, DC. In 2009, First Citizens Bank extended its franchise into California and Washington through the acquisition of certain assets and assumption of certain liabilities of Temecula Valley Bank and Venture Bank, respectively. ISB began operations in 1997 and operates from a thrift charter in Florida, Georgia, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Oklahoma, Missouri and Kansas. ISB’s significance to BancShares’ consolidated financial results continues to grow.

 

Management has determined that FCB and ISB are reportable business segments. In the aggregate, FCB and its consolidated subsidiaries, which are integral to its branch operation, and ISB account for more than 90 percent of consolidated assets, revenues and net income. The ‘Other’ category in the accompanying table includes activities of the parent company and Neuse, Incorporated (Neuse), a subsidiary that owns real property used in the banking operation and owns other real estate. The other real estate owed by Neuse relates to loans originated by ISB. During 2009, Neuse purchased some of ISB’s OREO to reduce ISB’s nonperforming assets. To facilitate the potential purchase of additional OREO in the future, ISB has agreed to lend Neuse up to $15,000 under a revolving line of credit. No amount was owed by Neuse to ISB as of December 31, 2009 under the revolving line of credit.

 

The adjustments in the accompanying tables represent the elimination of the impact of certain intercompany transactions. The adjustments for interest income and interest expense neutralize the earnings and cost of intercompany borrowings. The adjustments to noninterest income and noninterest expense reflect the elimination of management fees and other service fees paid from one company to another within BancShares’ consolidated group.

 

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FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

The following table provides selected financial information for BancShares’ reportable business segments:

 

    2009
    ISB     FCB   Other     Total   Adjustments     Consolidated

Interest income

  $ 131,253      $ 602,283   $ 5,285      $ 738,821   $ (662   $ 738,159

Interest expense

    52,117        153,477     22,712        228,306     (662     227,644
                                         

Net interest income

    79,136        448,806     (17,427     510,515     —          510,515

Provision for loan and lease losses

    33,989        45,375     —          79,364     —          79,364
                                         

Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses

    45,147        403,431     (17,427     431,151     —          431,151

Noninterest income

    13,252        407,230     (1,023     419,459     (9,859     409,600

Noninterest expense

    91,331        574,280     1,900        667,511     (9,859     657,652
                                         

Income (loss) before income taxes

    (32,932     236,381     (20,350     183,099     —          183,099

Income taxes

    (11,664     85,548     (7,116     66,768     —          66,768
                                         

Net income (loss)

  $ (21,268   $ 150,833   $ (13,234   $ 116,331   $ —          116,331
                                         

At December 31, 2009:

           

Total assets

  $ 2,573,605      $ 15,791,475   $ 2,181,898      $ 20,546,978   $ (2,080,915   $ 18,466,063

Loans and leases:

           

Covered under loss sharing agreements

    —          1,173,020     —          1,173,020     —          1,173,020

Not covered under loss sharing agreements

    2,194,659        9,450,340     —          11,644,999     —          11,644,999

Allowance for loan and lease losses

    41,675        130,607     —          172,282     —          172,282

Goodwill

    793        101,832       102,625     —          102,625

Deposits

    1,967,824        13,406,484     —          15,374,308     (36,741     15,337,567

Nonperforming assets:

           

Covered under loss share agreements

    —          220,233     —          220,233     —          220,233

Not covered under loss share agreements

    62,881        76,622     14,546        154,049     —          154,049
                                         

Total nonperforming assets

  $
62,881
  
  $ 296,855   $ 14,546      $ 374,282   $ —        $ 374,282
                                         

 

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FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

     2008
     ISB     FCB    Other     Total    Adjustments     Consolidated

Interest income

   $ 141,061      $ 662,247    $ 23,214      $ 826,522    $ (13,171   $ 813,351

Interest expense

     73,560        221,753      32,803        328,116      (13,171     314,945
                                            

Net interest income

     67,501        440,494      (9,589     498,406      —          498,406

Provision for loan and lease losses

     36,208        29,718      —          65,926      —          65,926
                                            

Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses

     31,293        410,776      (9,589     432,480      —          432,480

Noninterest income

     12,197        311,377      610        324,184      (10,700     313,484

Noninterest expense

     87,632        527,475      1,953        617,060      (10,700     606,360
                                            

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (44,142     194,678      (10,932     139,604      —          139,604

Income taxes

     (15,234     67,588      (3,808     48,546      —          48,546
                                            

Net income (loss)

   $ (28,908   $ 127,090    $ (7,124   $ 91,058    $ —        $ 91,058
                                            

At December 31, 2008:

              

Total assets

   $ 2,563,950      $ 13,879,815    $ 2,174,079      $ 18,617,844    $ (1,872,182   $ 16,745,662

Loans and leases

     2,220,507        9,429,379      —          11,649,886      —          11,649,886

Allowance for loan and lease losses

     37,335        120,234      —          157,569      —          157,569

Goodwill

     793        101,832        102,625        102,625

Deposits

     1,970,795        11,782,062      —          13,752,857      (39,094     13,713,763

Nonperforming assets

     47,607        24,059      —          71,666      —          71,666

 

     2007
     ISB     FCB    Other     Total    Adjustments     Consolidated

Interest income

   $ 141,071      $ 750,508    $ 44,884      $ 936,463    $ (34,282   $ 902,181

Interest expense

     77,257        322,374      58,365        457,996      (34,282     423,714
                                            

Net interest income

     63,814        428,134      (13,481     478,467      —          478,467

Provision for loan and lease losses

     9,034        23,905      —          32,939      —          32,939
                                            

Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses

     54,780        404,229      (13,481     445,528      —          445,528

Noninterest income

     13,509        293,371      421        307,301      (9,956     297,345

Noninterest expense

     79,933        504,828      514        585,275      (9,956     575,319
                                            

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (11,644     192,772      (13,574     167,554      —          167,554

Income taxes

     (3,935     67,579      (4,707     58,937        58,937
                                            

Net income (loss)

   $ (7,709   $ 125,193    $ (8,867   $ 108,617    $ —        $ 108,617
                                            

At December 31, 2007:

              

Total assets

   $ 2,341,223      $ 13,582,263    $ 2,595,256      $ 18,518,742    $ (2,306,635   $ 16,212,107

Loans and leases

     2,071,681        8,892,223      —          10,963,904      —          10,963,904

Allowance for loan and lease losses

     23,648        113,326      —          136,974      —          136,974

Goodwill

     793        101,832      —          102,625      —          102,625

Deposits

     1,856,927        11,129,545      —          12,986,472      (57,928     12,928,544

Nonperforming assets

     6,160        13,754      —          19,914      —          19,914

 

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FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

NOTE T—FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. (PARENT COMPANY)

 

First Citizens BancShares, Inc.’s principal assets are its investments in and receivables from its subsidiaries. Its sources of income are dividends and interest income. The Parent Company’s condensed balance sheets as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related condensed statements of income and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007 are as follows:

 

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

 

     December 31
     2009    2008

Assets

     

Cash

   $ 8,467    $ 10,280

Investment securities available for sale

     82,017      265,190

Investment in subsidiaries

     1,769,368      1,648,360

Due from subsidiaries

     326,548      227,200

Other assets

     58,899      60,823
             

Total assets

   $ 2,245,299    $ 2,211,853
             

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

     

Short-term borrowings

   $ 395,577    $ 472,573

Long-term obligations

     273,197      273,197

Other liabilities

     17,410      22,708

Shareholders’ equity

     1,559,115      1,443,375
             

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 2,245,299    $ 2,211,853
             

 

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2009     2008     2007  

Interest income

   $ 5,285      $ 23,214      $ 44,884   

Interest expense

     22,786        32,908        58,610   

Net interest income (loss)

     (17,501     (9,694     (13,726

Dividends from subsidiaries

     60,509        54,788        43,830   

Other income (loss)

     (1,024     610        421   

Other operating expense

     3,430        3,422        2,084   
                        

Income before income tax benefit and equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries

     38,554        42,282        28,441   

Income tax benefit

     (7,741     (4,420     (5,414
                        

Income before equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries

     46,295        46,702        33,855   

Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries

     70,036        44,356        74,762   
                        

Net income

   $ 116,331      $ 91,058      $ 108,617   
                        

 

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FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

     Year Ended December 31  
     2009     2008     2007  

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

      

Net income

   $ 116,331      $ 91,058      $ 108,617   

Adjustments

      

Undistributed net income of subsidiaries

     (70,036     (44,356     (74,762

Net amortization of premiums and discounts

     (246     (246     (247

Securities losses (gains)

     615        (103     —     

Change in other assets

     (1,924     (12,830     11,149   

Change in other liabilities

     (1,198     3,215        1,695   
                        

Net cash provided by operating activities

     43,542        36,738        46,452   
                        

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

      

Net change in due from subsidiaries

     (99,348     414,443        (78,198

Purchases of investment securities

     —          (90,918     (149,906

Maturities and sales of investment securities

     184,010        129,731        53,696   

Investment in subsidiaries

     (40,500     (45,750     (24,000
                        

Net cash provided (used) by investing activities

     44,162        407,506        (198,408
                        

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

      

Net change in short-term borrowings

     (76,995     (450,851     182,395   

Cash dividends paid

     (12,522     (11,477     (11,478
                        

Net cash provided (used) by financing activities

     (89,517     (462,328     170,917   
                        

Net change in cash

     (1,813     (18,084     18,961   

Cash balance at beginning of year

     10,280        28,364        9,403   
                        

Cash balance at end of year

   $ 8,467      $ 10,280      $ 28,364   
                        

Cash payments for

      

Interest

   $ 22,155      $ 32,457      $ 58,159   

Income taxes

     20,640        69,506        57,765   

 

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SIGNATURES

 

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

 

Dated: March 1, 2010

FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC. (Registrant)

 

/S/    FRANK B. HOLDING, JR.        

                                                                                                                                 

Frank B. Holding, Jr.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons, on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated on March 1, 2010.

 

Signature

  

Title

 

Date

/s/    FRANK B. HOLDING, JR.        

                                                                                         

Frank B. Holding, Jr.

  

Chairman

  March 1, 2010

/s/    FRANK B. HOLDING  *    

                                                                                           

Frank B. Holding

  

Executive Vice Chairman

  March 1, 2010

/S/    KENNETH A. BLACK        

                                                                                         

Kenneth A. Black

  

Vice President, Treasurer, and Chief Financial Officer (principal financial

and accounting officer)

  March 1, 2010

/s/    JOHN M. ALEXANDER, JR.  *      

                                                                                         

John M. Alexander, Jr.

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

/s/    CARMEN HOLDING AMES  *      

                                                                                         

Carmen Holding Ames

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

/s/    VICTOR E. BELL, III  *      

                                                                                         

Victor E. Bell, III

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

/s/    GEORGE H. BROADRICK  *      

                                                                                         

George H. Broadrick

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

/s/    HOPE HOLDING CONNELL  *    

                                                                                         

Hope Holding Connell

  

Director

 

March 1, 2010

/s/    HUBERT M. CRAIG, III  *      

                                                                                         

Hubert M. Craig, III

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

 

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Signature

  

Title

 

Date

/s/    H. LEE DURHAM, JR.  *      

                                                                                         

H. Lee Durham, Jr.

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

/s/    LEWIS M. FETTERMAN  *  

                                                                                         

Lewis M. Fetterman

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

/s/    DANIEL L. HEAVNER  *      

                                                                                         

Daniel L. Heavner

  

Director

 

March 1, 2010

/s/    LUCIUS S. JONES    *    

                                                                                         

    Lucius S. Jones

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

/s/    ROBERT E. MASON, IV    *    

                                                                                         

Robert E. Mason, IV

  

Director

 

March 1, 2010

/s/    ROBERT T. NEWCOMB  *      

                                                                                         

Robert T. Newcomb

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

/s/    LEWIS T. NUNNELEE, II    *    

                                                                                         

Lewis T. Nunnelee, II

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

/s/    JAMES M. PARKER  *  

                                                                                         

James M. Parker

   Director   March 1, 2010

/s/    RALPH K. SHELTON    *    

                                                                                         

Ralph K. Shelton

   Director   March 1, 2010

/s/    DAVID L. WARD, JR    *    

                                                                                         

David L. Ward, Jr.

  

Director

  March 1, 2010

 

*   Kenneth A. Black hereby signs this Annual Report on Form 10-K on March 1, 2010, on behalf of each of the indicated persons for whom he is attorney-in-fact pursuant to a Power of Attorney filed herewith.

 

By:

 

/S/    KENNETH A. BLACK      

 

Kenneth A. Black

As Attorney-In-Fact

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

2.1   Purchase and Assumption Agreement between Registrant’s subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation dated July 17, 2009 (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 8-K/A filed February 1, 2010 for an event occurring July 17, 2009)
2.2   Purchase and Assumption Agreement between Registrant’s subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation dated September 11, 2009 (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 8-K/A filed December 21, 2009 for an event occurring September 11, 2009)
2.3  

Purchase and Assumption Agreement between Registrant’s subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation dated January 29, 2010 (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 8-K filed February 4, 2010 for an event occurring January 29, 2010)

3.1   Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, as amended (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1992)
3.2   Bylaws of the Registrant, as amended (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 8-K dated April 27, 2009)
4.1   Specimen of Registrant’s Class A Common Stock certificate (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-K for year ended December 31, 2008)
4.2   Specimen of Registrant’s Class B Common Stock certificate (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-K for year ended December 31, 2008)
4.3   Amended and Restated Trust Agreement of FCB/NC Capital Trust I (incorporated by reference from Registration No. 333-59039)
4.4   Form of Guarantee Agreement (incorporated by reference from Registration No. 333-59039)
4.5   Junior Subordinated Indenture dated March 5, 1998 between Registrant and Bankers Trust Company, as Debenture Trustee (incorporated by reference from Registration No. 333-59039)
4.6   Indenture dated June 1, 2005 between Registrant’s subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s 8-K dated
June 1, 2005)
4.7   First Supplemental Indenture dated June 1, 2005 between Registrant’s subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 8-K dated June 1, 2005)
4.8   Amended and Restated Trust Agreement of FCB/NC Capital Trust III (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2006)
4.9   Guarantee Agreement relating to Registrant’s guarantee of the capital securities of FCB/NC Capital Trust III (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2006)
4.10   Junior Subordinated Indenture dated May 18, 2006 between Registrant and Wilmington Trust Company, as Debenture Trustee (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2006)
10.1   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement dated February 5, 2009 between Registrant’s Subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Lewis R. Holding (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 8-K filed February 6, 2009 for an event on February 3, 2009)
10.2   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement dated February 3, 2009 between Registrant’s Subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Frank B. Holding (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 8-K filed February 6, 2009 for an event on February 3, 2009)
10.3   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 17, 2007 between Registrant’s Subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and James B. Hyler, Jr. (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007)
10.4  

Retirement Agreement and Release dated February 1, 2008 between Registrant’s subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and James B. Hyler, Jr. (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008)

 

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10.5  

Offer of employment by Registrant’s Subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company to Carol B. Yochem dated August 3, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Registrant’s 2006 Form 10-K)

10.6   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 17, 2007, between Registrant’s Subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Carol B. Yochem (incorporated by reference to Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007)
10.7   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 17, 2007, between Registrant’s Subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Kenneth A. Black (incorporated by reference to Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007)
10.8   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 17, 2007 between Registrant’s Subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Frank B. Holding, Jr. (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007)
10.9   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 17, 2007 between Registrant’s Subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Hope Holding Connell (incorporated by reference to Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007)
10.10   Consultation Agreement dated July 24, 2006, between Registrant’s subsidiary, First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company, and George H. Broadrick (incorporated by reference to Registrant’s 2006 Form 10-K)
10.11   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 17, 2007, between Registrant’s Subsidiary IronStone Bank and James M. Parker (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2007)
10.12  

Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement between Registrant’s subsidiary IronStone Bank and James M. Parker (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s 2008 Form 10-K)

10.13   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement between Registrant’s subsidiary IronStone Bank and James M. Parker (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 8-K filed February 6, 2009 for an event on February 4, 2009)
10.14   Resignation, Retirement and Release Agreement dated February 25, 2009 between Registrant, Registrant’s Subsidiaries First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and IronStone Bank and Lewis R. Holding (incorporated by reference from Registrant’s Form 8-K filed March 3, 2009 for an event on February 25, 2009)
10.15   Executive Consultation, Separation from Service and Death Benefit Agreement dated September 17, 2007 between Registrant’s Subsidiary First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company and Edward L. Willingham, IV (filed herewith)
21   Subsidiaries of the Registrant (filed herewith)
24   Power of Attorney (filed herewith)
31.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer (filed herewith)
31.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer (filed herewith)
32.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer (filed herewith)
32.2   Certification of Chief Financial Officer (filed herewith)
99.1   Proxy Statement for Registrant’s 2010 Annual Meeting (separately filed)

 

COPIES OF EXHIBITS ARE AVAILABLE UPON WRITTEN REQUEST TO

KENNETH A. BLACK, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER OF FIRST CITIZENS BANCSHARES, INC.

 

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