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Hilltop Holdings Inc. - Quarter Report: 2020 September (Form 10-Q)

Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2020

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File Number: 1-31987

Hilltop Holdings Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Maryland

84-1477939

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

organization)

6565 Hillcrest Avenue

Dallas, TX

75205

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

(214) 855-2177

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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

Title of each class

Trading symbol

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share

HTH

New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes   No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files). Yes   No

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

Large accelerated filer

Accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer

Smaller reporting company

Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

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

The number of shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding at October 23, 2020 was 90,238,435.

Table of Contents

HILLTOP HOLDINGS INC.

FORM 10-Q

FOR THE QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.

Financial Statements

Consolidated Balance Sheets

3

Consolidated Statements of Operations

4

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

5

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

6

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

8

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

9

Item 2.

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

52

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

100

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

103

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

105

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

105

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

107

Item 6.

Exhibits

108

2

Table of Contents

HILLTOP HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

(Unaudited)

September 30,

December 31,

 

    

2020

    

2019

 

Assets

Cash and due from banks

$

1,277,865

$

433,626

Federal funds sold

 

420

 

394

Assets segregated for regulatory purposes

221,621

157,436

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

90,103

59,031

Securities:

Trading, at fair value

 

667,751

 

689,576

Available for sale, at fair value, net (amortized cost of $1,280,420 and 899,817, respectively)

 

1,310,240

 

911,493

Held to maturity, at amortized cost, net (fair value of $338,929 and $388,930, respectively)

323,299

386,326

Equity, at fair value

117

166

 

2,301,407

1,987,561

Loans held for sale

 

2,547,975

 

2,106,361

Loans held for investment, net of unearned income

 

7,945,560

 

7,381,400

Allowance for credit losses

 

(155,214)

 

(61,136)

Loans held for investment, net

 

7,790,346

 

7,320,264

Broker-dealer and clearing organization receivables

 

1,363,478

 

1,780,280

Premises and equipment, net

 

208,078

 

210,375

Operating lease right-of-use assets

109,354

 

114,320

Mortgage servicing rights

127,712

55,504

Other assets

 

607,932

 

404,754

Goodwill

 

267,447

 

267,447

Other intangible assets, net

 

21,814

 

26,666

Assets of discontinued operations

248,429

Total assets

$

16,935,552

$

15,172,448

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

Deposits:

Noninterest-bearing

$

3,557,603

$

2,769,556

Interest-bearing

 

7,704,312

 

6,262,658

Total deposits

 

11,261,915

 

9,032,214

Broker-dealer and clearing organization payables

 

1,310,835

 

1,605,518

Short-term borrowings

 

780,109

 

1,424,010

Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value

56,023

43,817

Notes payable

 

396,006

 

256,269

Operating lease liabilities

122,402

 

125,619

Junior subordinated debentures

 

67,012

 

67,012

Other liabilities

 

502,517

 

348,519

Liabilities of discontinued operations

140,674

Total liabilities

 

14,496,819

 

13,043,652

Commitments and contingencies (see Notes 13 and 14)

Stockholders' equity:

Hilltop stockholders' equity:

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 125,000,000 shares authorized; 90,238,435 and 90,640,944 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively

 

902

 

906

Additional paid-in capital

 

1,443,588

 

1,445,233

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

23,790

 

11,419

Retained earnings

942,461

 

644,860

Deferred compensation employee stock trust, net

774

 

776

Employee stock trust (7,175 and 7,794 shares, at cost, at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively)

(143)

 

(155)

Total Hilltop stockholders' equity

 

2,411,372

 

2,103,039

Noncontrolling interests

 

27,361

 

25,757

Total stockholders' equity

 

2,438,733

 

2,128,796

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$

16,935,552

$

15,172,448

See accompanying notes.

3

Table of Contents

HILLTOP HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

   

2020

    

2019

   

2020

    

2019

 

Interest income:

Loans, including fees

$

104,955

$

119,580

$

323,983

$

344,775

Securities borrowed

10,705

21,010

36,915

53,386

Securities:

Taxable

 

11,035

 

14,885

 

38,428

 

43,319

Tax-exempt

 

1,687

 

1,576

 

4,836

 

4,587

Other

 

1,446

 

3,889

 

5,472

 

12,811

Total interest income

 

129,828

 

160,940

 

409,634

 

458,878

Interest expense:

Deposits

 

10,700

 

18,887

 

37,771

 

54,029

Securities loaned

8,729

17,889

30,802

 

46,097

Short-term borrowings

 

2,346

 

8,166

 

9,457

 

20,534

Notes payable

 

4,904

 

2,265

 

11,090

 

6,611

Junior subordinated debentures

 

608

 

955

 

2,163

 

2,942

Other

 

641

 

132

 

1,557

 

446

Total interest expense

 

27,928

 

48,294

 

92,840

 

130,659

Net interest income

 

101,900

 

112,646

 

316,794

 

328,219

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses

 

(602)

 

47

 

99,973

 

326

Net interest income after provision for (reversal of) credit losses

 

102,502

 

112,599

 

216,821

 

327,893

Noninterest income:

Net gains from sale of loans and other mortgage production income

 

307,896

 

157,050

 

753,699

 

384,362

Mortgage loan origination fees

 

47,681

 

37,782

 

121,576

 

93,064

Securities commissions and fees

 

32,496

 

34,426

 

106,799

 

104,537

Investment and securities advisory fees and commissions

36,866

 

28,685

 

89,166

 

71,704

Other

 

77,772

 

48,562

 

171,309

 

145,504

Total noninterest income

 

502,711

 

306,505

 

1,242,549

 

799,171

Noninterest expense:

Employees' compensation and benefits

 

294,907

 

232,449

 

768,156

 

632,104

Occupancy and equipment, net

 

26,124

 

27,002

 

71,820

 

82,719

Professional services

 

17,522

 

15,472

 

48,057

 

43,354

Other

 

60,792

 

46,263

 

163,422

 

145,844

Total noninterest expense

 

399,345

 

321,186

 

1,051,455

 

904,021

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

205,868

 

97,918

 

407,915

 

223,043

Income tax expense

 

46,820

 

21,472

 

93,776

 

50,135

Income from continuing operations

159,048

76,446

314,139

172,908

Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

736

5,261

34,662

8,367

Net income

 

159,784

 

81,707

 

348,801

 

181,275

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest

 

6,505

 

2,289

 

17,410

 

5,260

Income attributable to Hilltop

$

153,279

$

79,418

$

331,391

$

176,015

Earnings per common share:

Basic:

Earnings from continuing operations

$

1.69

$

0.81

$

3.29

$

1.80

Earnings from discontinued operations

0.01

0.06

0.38

0.09

$

1.70

$

0.87

$

3.67

$

1.89

Diluted:

Earnings from continuing operations

$

1.69

$

0.81

$

3.29

$

1.80

Earnings from discontinued operations

0.01

0.05

0.38

0.09

$

1.70

$

0.86

$

3.67

$

1.89

Weighted average share information:

Basic

 

90,200

 

91,745

 

90,291

 

92,931

Diluted

 

90,200

 

91,824

 

90,291

 

92,959

See accompanying notes.

4

Table of Contents

HILLTOP HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

    

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

Net income

$

159,784

$

81,707

$

348,801

$

181,275

Other comprehensive income:

Change in fair value of cash flow hedges, net of tax of $92, $0, $(951) and $0, respectively

311

(3,266)

Net unrealized gains on securities available for sale, net of tax of $(99), $1,238, $4,554 and $6,030, respectively

 

(338)

 

6,468

 

15,512

 

22,973

Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, net of tax of $1, $(531), $37 and $(536), respectively

 

4

 

(2,025)

 

125

 

(2,041)

Comprehensive income

 

159,761

 

86,150

 

361,172

 

202,207

Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest

 

6,505

 

2,289

 

17,410

 

5,260

Comprehensive income applicable to Hilltop

$

153,256

$

83,861

$

343,762

$

196,947

See accompanying notes.

5

Table of Contents

HILLTOP HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

    

    

    

Accumulated

    

    

Deferred

    

    

    

    

Total

    

    

Additional

Other

Compensation

Employee

Hilltop

Total

Common Stock

Paid-in

Comprehensive

Retained

Employee Stock

Stock Trust

Stockholders’

Noncontrolling

Stockholders’

Shares

Amount

Capital

Income (Loss)

Earnings

Trust, Net

Shares

Amount

Equity

Interest

Equity

Balance, June 30, 2019

92,775

$

928

$

1,473,599

$

7,862

$

544,275

$

788

9

$

(171)

$

2,027,281

$

24,524

$

2,051,805

Net income

79,418

79,418

2,289

81,707

Other comprehensive income

4,443

4,443

4,443

Stock-based compensation expense

2,978

2,978

2,978

Common stock issued to board members

6

145

145

145

Issuance of common stock related to share-based awards, net

23

(200)

(200)

(200)

Repurchases of common stock

(2,175)

(22)

(34,918)

(13,465)

(48,405)

(48,405)

Dividends on common stock ($0.08 per share)

(7,393)

(7,393)

(7,393)

Deferred compensation plan

1

1

2

2

Net cash distributed to noncontrolling interest

(1,655)

(1,655)

Balance, September 30, 2019

90,629

$

906

$

1,441,604

$

12,305

$

602,835

$

789

9

$

(170)

$

2,058,269

$

25,158

$

2,083,427

Balance, June 30, 2020

90,222

$

902

$

1,439,686

$

23,813

$

797,331

$

778

8

$

(150)

$

2,262,360

$

29,773

$

2,292,133

Net income

153,279

153,279

6,505

159,784

Other comprehensive income

(23)

(23)

(23)

Stock-based compensation expense

3,790

3,790

3,790

Common stock issued to board members

7

147

147

147

Issuance of common stock related to share-based awards, net

9

(64)

(64)

(64)

Repurchases of common stock

29

(30)

(1)

(1)

Dividends on common stock ($0.09 per share)

(8,119)

(8,119)

(8,119)

Deferred compensation plan

(4)

(1)

7

3

3

Net cash distributed to noncontrolling interest

(8,917)

(8,917)

Balance, September 30, 2020

90,238

$

902

$

1,443,588

$

23,790

$

942,461

$

774

7

$

(143)

$

2,411,372

$

27,361

$

2,438,733

6

Table of Contents

HILLTOP HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (continued)

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

    

    

    

Accumulated

    

    

Deferred

    

    

    

    

Total

    

    

Additional

Other

Compensation

Employee

Hilltop

Total

Common Stock

Paid-in

Comprehensive

Retained

Employee Stock

Stock Trust

Stockholders’

Noncontrolling

Stockholders’

Shares

Amount

Capital

Income (Loss)

Earnings

Trust, Net

Shares

Amount

Equity

Interest

Equity

Balance, December 31, 2018

93,610

$

936

$

1,489,816

$

(8,627)

$

466,737

$

825

11

$

(217)

$

1,949,470

$

24,423

$

1,973,893

Net income

176,015

176,015

5,260

181,275

Other comprehensive income

20,932

20,932

20,932

Stock-based compensation expense

7,717

7,717

7,717

Common stock issued to board members

21

426

426

426

Issuance of common stock related to share-based awards, net

388

4

(1,938)

(1,934)

(1,934)

Repurchases of common stock

(3,390)

(34)

(54,417)

(18,934)

(73,385)

(73,385)

Dividends on common stock ($0.24 per share)

(22,376)

(22,376)

(22,376)

Deferred compensation plan

(36)

(2)

47

11

11

Adoption of accounting standards

1,393

1,393

1,393

Net cash distributed to noncontrolling interest

(4,525)

(4,525)

Balance, September 30, 2019

90,629

$

906

$

1,441,604

$

12,305

$

602,835

$

789

9

$

(170)

$

2,058,269

$

25,158

$

2,083,427

Balance, December 31, 2019

90,641

$

906

$

1,445,233

$

11,419

$

644,860

$

776

8

$

(155)

$

2,103,039

$

25,757

$

2,128,796

Net income

331,391

331,391

17,410

348,801

Other comprehensive income

12,371

12,371

12,371

Stock-based compensation expense

10,549

10,549

10,549

Common stock issued to board members

25

439

439

439

Issuance of common stock related to share-based awards, net

293

3

(1,091)

(1,088)

(1,088)

Repurchases of common stock

(721)

(7)

(11,542)

(3,701)

(15,250)

(15,250)

Dividends on common stock ($0.27 per share)

(24,398)

(24,398)

(24,398)

Deferred compensation plan

(2)

(1)

12

10

10

Adoption of accounting standards (Note 2)

(5,691)

(5,691)

(5,691)

Net cash distributed to noncontrolling interest

(15,806)

(15,806)

Balance, September 30, 2020

90,238

$

902

$

1,443,588

$

23,790

$

942,461

$

774

7

$

(143)

$

2,411,372

$

27,361

$

2,438,733

See accompanying notes.

7

Table of Contents

HILLTOP HOLDINGS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

Nine Months Ended September 30,

    

2020

    

2019

   

Operating Activities

Net income

$

348,801

$

181,275

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

Provision for credit losses

 

99,973

 

326

Depreciation, amortization and accretion, net

 

15,093

 

(2,465)

Net change in fair value of equity securities

49

 

(30)

Deferred income taxes

 

(73)

 

1,502

Other, net

 

4,096

 

10,624

Net change in securities purchased under agreements to resell

 

(31,072)

 

11,613

Net change in trading securities

 

21,825

 

38,198

Net change in broker-dealer and clearing organization receivables

 

491,035

 

(271,474)

Net change in other assets

 

(94,997)

 

(35,263)

Net change in broker-dealer and clearing organization payables

 

(273,013)

 

132,964

Net change in other liabilities

 

147,058

 

75,858

Net change in securities sold, not yet purchased

12,206

 

(22,418)

Proceeds from sale of mortgage servicing rights asset

 

18,650

 

Net gains from sales of loans

(753,699)

 

(384,362)

Loans originated for sale

 

(19,351,752)

 

(11,858,761)

Proceeds from loans sold

19,449,739

 

11,638,303

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities for continuing operations

 

103,919

 

(484,110)

Net cash used in operating activities for discontinued operations

(29,269)

(421)

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

74,650

(484,531)

Investing Activities

Proceeds from maturities and principal reductions of securities held to maturity

 

69,937

53,051

Proceeds from sales, maturities and principal reductions of securities available for sale

 

321,049

204,016

Purchases of securities held to maturity

(7,553)

(73,652)

Purchases of securities available for sale

 

(704,933)

(324,609)

Net change in loans held for investment

 

(647,420)

(387,952)

Purchases of premises and equipment and other assets

 

(25,331)

(27,200)

Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment and other real estate owned

 

20,912

12,570

Net cash received from (paid to) Federal Home Loan Bank and Federal Reserve Bank stock

 

22,847

(20,381)

Net cash used in investing activities for continuing operations

(950,492)

 

(564,157)

Net cash provided by investing activities for discontinued operations

1,941

16,888

Net cash received from disposal of discontinued operations

85,499

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(863,052)

 

(547,269)

Financing Activities

Net change in deposits

 

2,208,031

 

312,990

Net change in short-term borrowings

 

(645,160)

 

436,948

Proceeds from notes payable

 

1,200,343

 

675,086

Payments on notes payable

 

(1,060,681)

 

(658,677)

Payments to repurchase common stock

 

(15,250)

 

(73,385)

Dividends paid on common stock

 

(24,398)

 

(22,376)

Net cash distributed to noncontrolling interest

(15,806)

 

(4,525)

Taxes paid on employee stock awards netting activity

(1,090)

 

(1,934)

Other, net

(470)

 

(363)

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

1,645,519

663,764

Net change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

 

857,117

 

(368,036)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period

 

642,789

 

778,466

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period

$

1,499,906

$

410,430

Reconciliation of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash to Consolidated Balance Sheets

Cash and due from banks

$

1,277,865

$

281,445

Cash and due from banks, included within assets of discontinued operations

44,684

Federal funds sold

420

423

Assets segregated for regulatory purposes

221,621

83,878

Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

$

1,499,906

$

410,430

Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information

Cash paid for interest

$

87,798

$

125,928

Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds

$

87,581

$

32,227

Supplemental Schedule of Non-Cash Activities

Conversion of loans to other real estate owned

$

13,669

$

3,502

Additions to mortgage servicing rights

$

123,266

$

8,574

See accompanying notes.

8

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting and Reporting Policies

Nature of Operations

Hilltop Holdings Inc. (“Hilltop” and, collectively with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) is a financial holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956. The Company’s primary line of business is to provide business and consumer banking services from offices located throughout Texas through PlainsCapital Bank (the “Bank”). In addition, the Company provides an array of financial products and services through its broker-dealer and mortgage origination subsidiaries.

On June 30, 2020, Hilltop completed the sale of all of the outstanding capital stock of National Lloyds Corporation (“NLC”), which comprises the operations of the insurance segment, for cash proceeds of $154.1 million, subject to post-closing adjustments. Accordingly, NLC’s results and its assets and liabilities have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements. For further details, see Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements.

The Company, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, provides its products and services through its two remaining primary business units included within continuing operations, PlainsCapital Corporation (“PCC”) and Hilltop Securities Holdings LLC (“Securities Holdings”). PCC is a financial holding company that provides, through its subsidiaries, traditional banking, wealth and investment management and treasury management services primarily in Texas and residential mortgage lending throughout the United States. Securities Holdings is a holding company that provides, through its subsidiaries, investment banking and other related financial services, including municipal advisory, sales, trading and underwriting of taxable and tax-exempt fixed income securities, equity trading, clearing, securities lending, structured finance and retail brokerage services throughout the United States.

As a result of the spread of the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) pandemic, economic uncertainties continue to adversely impact the global economy and have contributed to significant volatility in banking and other financial activity in the areas in which the Company operates. The effects of COVID-19 and the governmental and societal response to the virus have negatively impacted financial markets and overall economic conditions on an unprecedented scale, resulting in the shuttering of businesses across the country and significant job loss. Many of these businesses reopened but may be operating at limited capacity. The Company’s business is dependent upon the willingness and ability of its employees and customers to conduct banking and other financial transactions. The rapid development and fluidity of this situation precludes any prediction as to the ultimate adverse impact of COVID-19. COVID-19 presents material uncertainty which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”), and in conformity with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). In the opinion of management, these financial statements contain all adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the results of the interim periods presented. Accordingly, the financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 (“2019 Form 10-K”). Results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for a full year or any future period.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates regarding the allowance for credit losses, the fair values of financial instruments, the mortgage loan indemnification liability, and the potential impairment of goodwill and identifiable intangible assets are particularly subject to change. As a result of the sale of NLC on June 30, 2020, the

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reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses (“LAE”) is not a significant accounting estimate. Other than changes related to the implementation of the current expected credit losses standard (ASU 2016-13), the Company has applied its critical accounting policies and estimation methods consistently in all periods presented in these consolidated financial statements. Actual amounts and values as of the balance sheet dates may be materially different than the amounts and values reported due to the inherent uncertainty in the estimation process. Also, future amounts and values could differ materially from those estimates due to changes in values and circumstances after the balance sheet date.

Hilltop owns 100% of the outstanding stock of PCC. PCC owns 100% of the outstanding stock of the Bank and 100% of the membership interest in Hilltop Opportunity Partners LLC, a merchant bank utilized to facilitate investments in companies engaged in non-financial activities. The Bank owns 100% of the outstanding stock of PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (“PrimeLending”).

PrimeLending owns a 100% membership interest in PrimeLending Ventures Management, LLC (“Ventures Management”), which holds an ownership interest in and is the managing member of certain affiliated business arrangements (“ABAs”).

PCC also owns 100% of the outstanding common securities of PCC Statutory Trusts I, II, III and IV (the “Trusts”), which are not included in the consolidated financial statements under the requirements of the Variable Interest Entities (“VIE”) Subsections of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) because the primary beneficiaries of the Trusts are not within the consolidated group.

Hilltop has a 100% membership interest in Securities Holdings, which operates through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Hilltop Securities Inc. (“Hilltop Securities”), Hilltop Securities Independent Network Inc. (“HTS Independent Network” and collectively with Hilltop Securities, the “Hilltop Broker-Dealers”) and Hilltop Securities Asset Management, LLC. Hilltop Securities is a broker-dealer registered with the SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) and a member of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), HTS Independent Network is an introducing broker-dealer that is also registered with the SEC and FINRA. Hilltop Securities, HTS Independent Network and Hilltop Securities Asset Management, LLC are registered investment advisers under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.

In addition, Hilltop owns 100% of the membership interest in each of HTH Hillcrest Project LLC (“HTH Project LLC”) and Hilltop Investments I, LLC. Hilltop Investments I, LLC owns 50% of the membership interest in HTH Diamond Hillcrest Land LLC (“Hillcrest Land LLC”) which is consolidated under the aforementioned VIE Subsections of the ASC. These entities are related to the Hilltop Plaza investment discussed in detail in Note 18 to the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s 2019 Form 10-K and are collectively referred to as the “Hilltop Plaza Entities.”

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the above-named entities. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Noncontrolling interests have been recorded for minority ownership in entities that are not wholly owned and are presented in compliance with the provisions of Noncontrolling Interest in Subsidiary Subsections of the ASC.

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period consolidated financial statements to conform with the current period presentation, including reclassifications due to the adoption of new accounting pronouncements and reclassifications due to the presentation of NLC’s results and its assets and liabilities as discontinued operations. In preparing these consolidated financial statements, subsequent events were evaluated through the time the financial statements were issued. Financial statements are considered issued when they are widely distributed to all stockholders and other financial statement users, or filed with the SEC.

Significant accounting policies are detailed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s 2019 Form 10-K. As a result of the adoption of ASU 2016-13, which sets forth a “current expected credit loss” model, and related updates, improvements and technical corrections (collectively, “CECL”), the Company has included new or modified significant accounting policies as summarized below.

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Securities

Management classifies securities at the time of purchase and reassesses such designations at each balance sheet date. Securities held for resale to facilitate principal transactions with customers are classified as trading and are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value reflected in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company reports interest income on trading securities as interest income on securities and other changes in fair value as other noninterest income.

Debt securities held but not intended to be held to maturity or on a long-term basis are classified as available for sale. Securities included in this category are those that management intends to use as part of its asset/liability management strategy and that may be sold in response to changes in interest rates, prepayment risk or other factors related to interest rate and prepayment risk. Debt securities available for sale are carried at fair value. Unrealized holding gains and losses on debt securities available for sale, net of taxes, are reported in other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. Premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the effective interest method and reflect any optionality that may be embedded in the security.

Equity securities are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value reflected in the consolidated statements of operations. Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values are initially recorded at cost and subsequently remeasured when there is (i) an observable transaction involving the same investment, (ii) an observable transaction involving a similar investment from the same issuer or (iii) an impairment. These remeasurements are reflected in the consolidated statements of operations. Purchases and sales (and related gain or loss) of securities are recorded on the trade date, based on specific identification.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Available for Sale and Held to Maturity Securities

Available for sale debt securities in unrealized loss positions are evaluated for impairment related to credit losses at least quarterly. For available for sale debt securities, a decline in fair value due to credit loss results in recording an allowance for credit losses to the extent the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Declines in fair value that have not been recorded through an allowance for credit losses, such as declines due to changes in market interest rates, are recorded through other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes.

Allowances for credit losses may result from credit deterioration of the issuer or the collateral underlying the security. In performing an assessment of whether any decline in fair value is due to a credit loss, all relevant information is considered at the individual security level. In assessing whether a credit loss exists, the Company compares the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security with the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis for the security, a credit loss exists and an allowance for credit losses is recorded, limited to the amount by which the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis.

CECL has replaced the previous other-than-temporary-impairment (“OTTI”) model. Under the OTTI model, credit losses were recognized as a reduction to the cost basis of the investment with recovery of an impairment loss recognized prospectively over time as interest income, and reversals of impairment were not allowed. Under CECL, effective January 1, 2020, if the Company intends to sell a debt security, or it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the debt security is written down to its fair value and the write down is charged against the allowance for credit losses, with any incremental impairment reported in earnings. Reversals of the allowance for credit losses are permitted and should not exceed the allowance amount initially recognized.

For debt securities held to maturity, estimated expected credit losses are calculated in a manner like that used for loans held for investment. That is, the historical lifetime probability of default and severity of loss in the event of default is derived or obtained from external sources and adjusted for the expected effects of reasonable and supportable forecasts over the expected lives of the securities on those historical credit losses. With respect to certain classes of debt securities, primarily U.S. Treasuries, the Company considers the history of credit losses, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts, which may indicate that the expectation that nonpayment of the amortized cost basis is or continues to be zero, even if the U.S. government were to technically default. Therefore, for those securities, the Company does not record expected credit losses.

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Loans Held for Investment

Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are stated at the amount of unpaid principal reduced by unearned income, net unamortized deferred fees and an allowance for credit losses. Unearned income on installment loans and interest on other loans is recognized using the effective interest method. Net fees received for providing loan commitments and letters of credit that result in loans are deferred and amortized to interest income over the life of the related loan, beginning with the initial borrowing. Net fees on commitments and letters of credit that are not expected to be funded are amortized to noninterest income over the commitment period. Income on direct financing leases is recognized on a basis that achieves a constant periodic rate of return on the outstanding investment.

The accrual of interest on credit deteriorated loans is discontinued when, in management’s opinion, there is a clear indication that the borrower’s cash flow may not be sufficient to meet principal and interest payments, which is generally when a loan is 90 days past due unless the asset is both well secured and in the process of collection. When a loan is placed on non-accrual status, all previously accrued and unpaid interest is charged against income. Once placed on non-accrual status, interest income is recognized on a cash basis. Additionally, accretion of purchased discount on non-accrual loans is suspended.

The Company follows applicable regulatory guidance when measuring past due status. The Company uses the actual days elapsed since the payment due date of the loan to determine delinquency.

Management defines loans acquired in a business combination as acquired loans. Acquired loans are recorded at estimated fair value on their purchase date with no carryover of the related allowance for credit losses. Acquired loans are segregated between those considered to be credit deteriorated and those without credit deterioration at acquisition. To make this determination, management considers such factors as past due status, non-accrual status and credit risk ratings. For acquired performing loans, a lifetime allowance for credit losses is estimated as of the date of acquisition and is recorded through provision for (reversal of) credit losses. The difference between the purchase price and loan receivable is amortized over the remaining life of the loan.

All formerly designated purchased credit impaired (“PCI”) loans became purchased credit deteriorated (“PCD”) loans effective January 1, 2020. PCD loans are loans that, as of the date of acquisition, have experienced a more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination. For PCD loans, any non-credit discount or premium related to an acquired pool of PCD loans is allocated to each individual asset within the pool. On the acquisition date, the initial allowance for credit losses measured on a pooled basis is allocated to each individual asset within the pool to allocate any non-credit discount or premium. Credit losses are measured based on unpaid principal balance. A lifetime allowance for credit losses is estimated as of the date of acquisition. The initial allowance for credit losses is added to the purchase price and is considered to be part of the PCD loan amortized cost basis.

Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans Held for Investment

Credit quality within the loans held for investment portfolio is continuously monitored by management and is reflected within the allowance for credit losses for loans. The allowance for credit losses, or reserve, is an estimate of expected losses over the lifetime of a loan within the Company’s existing loans held for investment portfolio. The allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment is adjusted by a provision for (reversal of) credit losses, which is reported in earnings, and reduced by the charge-off of loan amounts, net of recoveries.

The credit loss estimation process involves procedures to appropriately consider the unique characteristics of the Company’s loan portfolio segments, which are further disaggregated into loan classes, the level at which credit risk is monitored. The allowance for credit losses for loans not evaluated for specific reserves is calculated using statistical credit factors, including probabilities of default (“PD”) and loss given default (“LGD”), to the amortized cost of pools of loan exposures with similar risk characteristics over its contractual life, adjusted for prepayments, to arrive at an estimate of expected credit losses. Economic forecasts are applied over the period management believes it can estimate

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reasonable and supportable forecasts. Reasonable and supportable forecast periods and reversion assumptions to historical data are credit model specific. The Company typically forecasts economic variables over a one to four year horizon. Prepayments are estimated by loan type using historical information and adjusted for current and future conditions.

Commercial loans that exceed a minimum size scope are underwritten and graded using credit models that leverage national industry default data to score the loans. At the conclusion of the process of underwriting or re-grading a borrower, each borrower (for commercial and industrial loans) or property (for commercial real estate loans) is assigned a PD grade threshold. The valuation methodology of risk rating internal grades is based on the merits of the financial ratios of the borrower or the property. In addition, an LGD grade is determined by the credit models utilizing collateral information provided. A master rating scale effectively "pools" the loans by credit scores and assigns a standard one year PD percentage and an LGD percentage equally for all loans that have a given score. For borrowers or loans that do not meet the minimum balance threshold, an internal scorecard is utilized to approximate the grades derived from the credit models and is mapped to the master rating scale. The resulting numerical PD grade is the credit quality indicator for commercial loans. The grades on borrowers or properties that are scored in the credit models are determined at origination and updated at least annually. The grades on the internal scorecards are updated annually if they meet a minimum threshold, or if new circumstances (favorable or unfavorable) warrant a re-scoring.

When computing allowance levels, credit loss assumptions are estimated using models that analyze loans according to credit risk ratings, historic loss experience, past due status and other credit trends and risk characteristics, including current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future. Determining the appropriateness of the allowance is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Future factors and forecasts may result in significant changes in the allowance and provision (reversal) for credit losses in those future periods. The allowance for credit losses will primarily reflect estimated losses for pools of loans that share similar risk characteristics, but will also consider individual loans that do not share risk characteristics with other loans.

Loans that Share Risk Characteristics with Other Loans

In estimating the component of the allowance for credit losses for loans that share similar risk characteristics with other loans, such loans are segregated into loan classes. Loans are designated into loan classes based on loans pooled by product types and similar risk characteristics or areas of risk concentration. In determining the allowance for credit losses, the Company derives an estimated credit loss assumption from a model that categorizes loan pools based on loan type and internal risk rating or past due category as follows.

Commercial and Industrial and Commercial Real Estate Loans. The Company assesses the credit quality of the borrower and assigns an internal risk rating by loan type for the commercial and industrial and commercial real estate portfolios. Internal risk ratings are assigned at origination or acquisition, and if necessary, adjusted for changes in credit quality over the life of the exposure. In assessing the internal PD risk rating of the loan or related unfunded commitments, we separately evaluate owner and non-owner occupied real estate. The borrower’s financial statements may be used to evaluate amounts and sources of repayments, debt service coverage, debt capacity, and quality of earnings. Other non-financial metrics are also evaluated including the geographies and industries within which it operates, its management strength, and its reputation and historical experience. The internal LGD risk rating also considers assessment of collateral quality and current loan to value, collateral type and loan seniority, covenant strength and performance, as well as any individual, corporate, or government guarantees.

These factors are based on an evaluation of historical and current information and sometimes involve subjective assessment and interpretation. Specific considerations for construction are considered in the internal PD and LGD risk ratings including property type, development phase and complexity, as well as lease-up and stabilization projections. The PD and LGD factors are further sensitized in the models for future expectations over the loan’s contractual life, adjusted for prepayments. 

1-4 Family Residential Loans. The 1-4 family residential loan portfolio is segmented into pools of residential real estate loans with similar credit risk characteristics. For 1-4 family residential loans, the Company utilizes separate credit

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(Unaudited)

models designed for these types of loans to estimate the PD and LGD grades for the allowance for credit losses calculation. The models calculate expected losses and prepayments using borrower information at origination, including FICO score, loan type, collateral type, lien position, geography, origination year, and loan to value. Past due status post-origination is also a key input in the models. Current and future changes in economic conditions, including unemployment rates, home prices, index rates, and mortgage rates, are also considered. New originations and loan purchases are scored using the FICO score at origination. FICO score bands are assigned following prevalent industry standards and are used as the credit quality indicator for these types of loans. Substandard non-accrual loans are treated as a separate category in the credit scoring grid as the probability of default is 100% and the FICO score is no longer a relevant predictor. A portion of the Company’s 1-4 family residential loans were acquired as part of a FDIC-assisted transaction in 2013 and the FICO information at origination was incomplete. The credit scores were refreshed in 2016 and these new scores were used as a proxy for the FICO score at origination.

Consumer Loans. The consumer loan portfolio is segmented into pools of consumer installment loans or revolving lines of credit with similar credit characteristics. The models calculate expected losses using borrower information at origination, including FICO score, origination year, geography, and collateral type.

Broker-Dealer Loans. The broker-dealer loan portfolio is evaluated on an individual basis using the collateral maintenance practical expedient. The collateral maintenance practical expedient allows the broker-dealer to compare the fair value of the collateral of each loan as of the reporting date to loan value. The underlying collateral of the loans to customers and correspondents is marked to market daily and any required additional collateral is collected. The allowance represents the amount of unsecured loan balances at the end of the period.

Qualitative Factors

Estimating the timing and amounts of future loss cash flows is subject to significant management judgment as these loss cash flows rely upon estimates such as default rates, loss severities, collateral valuations, the amounts and timing of principal payments (including any expected prepayments) or other factors that are reflective of current or future expected conditions. These estimates, in turn, depend on the duration of current overall economic conditions, industry, borrower, or portfolio specific conditions, the expected outcome of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, as well as, in certain circumstances, other economic factors, including the level of current and future real estate prices. All of these estimates and assumptions require significant management judgment and certain assumptions that are highly subjective. Model imprecision also exists in the allowance for credit losses estimation process due to the inherent time lag of available industry information and differences between expected and actual outcomes. 

Management considers adjustments for these conditions in its allowance for credit loss estimates qualitatively where they may not be measured directly in its individual or collective assessments, including but not limited to:

an adjustment to historical loss data to measure credit risk even if that risk is remote and does not meet the scope of assets with zero expected losses;
the environmental factors and the areas in which credit is concentrated, such as the regulatory, environmental, or technological environment, the geographical area or key industries, or in the national or regional economic and business conditions where the borrower has exposure;
the nature and volume of the company’s financial assets;
the borrower’s financial condition, credit rating, credit score, asset quality, or business prospects;
the borrower’s ability to make scheduled interest or principal payments;
the remaining payment terms of the financial assets and the remaining time to maturity and the timing and extent of prepayments on the financial assets;
the volume and severity of past due or adversely classified financial assets;
the value of underlying collateral in which the collateral-dependent practical expedient has not been utilized;
any updates to credit lending policies and procedures, including lending strategies, underwriting standards, collection and recovery practices, not reflected in the models; and
the quality of the internal credit review system.

Loans that Do Not Share Risk Characteristics with Other Loans

When a loan is assigned a substandard non-accrual risk rating grade, the loan subsequently is evaluated on an individual basis and no longer evaluated on a collective basis. The net realizable value of the loan is compared to the appropriate loan basis (i.e. PCD loan versus non-PCD loan) to determine any allowance for credit losses. Loans that are below a predetermined threshold, with the exception of 1-4 family residential loans, are fully reserved. The Company generally considers non-accrual loans to be collateral-dependent. The practical expedient to measure credit losses using the fair value of the collateral has been exercised.

For commercial real estate loans, the fair value of collateral is primarily based on appraisals. For owner occupied real estate loans, underlying properties are occupied by the borrower in its business, and evaluations are based on business operations used to service the debt. For non-owner occupied real estate loans, underlying properties are income-producing and evaluations are based on tenant revenues. For income producing construction and land development loans, appraisals reflect the assumption that properties are completed.

For 1-4 family residential loans that are graded substandard non-accrual, an assessment of value is made using the most recent appraisal on file. If the appraisal on file is older than two years, the latest property tax assessment is used as a screening value to determine if a reserve might be required. If the assessed value is less than the appraised value, this value is discounted for selling costs and is used to measure the reserve required. If the appraisal is less than two years old, the value is discounted for selling costs and compared to the appropriate basis in the loan.

Consumer loans are charged off when they reach 90 days delinquency as a general rule. There are limited cases where the loan is not charged off due to special circumstances and is subject to the collateral review process.

Off-Balance Sheet Credit Exposures, Including Unfunded Loan Commitments

The Company maintains a separate allowance for credit losses from off-balance sheet credit exposures, including unfunded loan commitments, which is included in other liabilities within the consolidated balance sheets. The Company estimates expected losses by calculating a commitment usage factor based on industry usage factors. The commitment usage factor is applied over the relevant contractual period. Loss factors from the underlying loans to which commitments are related are applied to the results of the usage calculation to estimate any liability for credit losses related for each loan type.

2. Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Accounting Standards Adopted During 2020

In March 2020, FASB issued ASU 2020-03 which included various clarifications and improvements related to financial instruments. The following topics are addressed: fair value option disclosures, applicability of portfolio exception to non-financial items, disclosures for depository and lending institutions, cross-reference to line-of-credit or revolving debt arrangements, cross-reference to net asset value practical expedient, the contractual term of a net investment in a lease for measuring expected credit losses, and recording of an allowance for credit losses when control of financial assets sold is regained. All items had various effective dates, which for the Company ranged from January 1, 2020 to the date of issuance. The adoption of ASU 2020-03 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In December 2019, FASB issued ASU 2019-12 which simplifies the accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general principles in the ASC and is intended to improve consistency by clarifying and amending existing guidance. The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020. As permitted within the amendment, the Company elected to early adopt and prospectively apply the provisions of this amendment as of January 1, 2020. The removal of the exceptions did not result in a material change in the Company’s current or deferred income tax provisions and did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In August 2018, FASB issued ASU 2018-15 which aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software (and hosting arrangements that include internal-use software licenses). The accounting for the service element of a hosting arrangement that is a service contract is not affected by the amendments in this update. The amendment also includes presentation and disclosure provisions regarding capitalized implementation costs. The amendment is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company adopted the provisions of this amendment as of January 1, 2020. The

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impact of this amendment is limited to presentation and disclosure changes that did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In August 2018, FASB issued ASU 2018-13 which includes various removals, modifications and additions to existing guidance regarding fair value disclosures. The amendments are effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company adopted the provisions of these amendments as of January 1, 2020. The impact of these amendments is limited to presentation and disclosure changes that did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In June 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-13 which sets forth a current expected credit loss model that requires entities to measure all credit losses expected over the life of an exposure (or pool of exposures) for financial instruments held at the reporting date based on historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The FASB has issued various updates, improvements and technical corrections to the standard since the issuance of ASU 2016-13. The new standard, which is codified in ASC 326, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses, replaces the existing incurred loss model and is applicable to the measurement of credit losses on financial assets measured at amortized cost and applies to some off-balance sheet credit exposures. For available for sale securities, the standard modifies the current OTTI model by requiring entities to record an allowance for credit losses rather than reducing the carrying amount of securities. Additionally, the new standard eliminated the former accounting model for PCI loans, but requires an allowance to be recognized for PCD assets. The new standard also requires enhanced disclosures to help financial statement users better understand significant estimates and judgments used in estimating credit losses, as well as the credit quality and underwriting standards of an entity’s portfolio. The Company’s implementation efforts included, among other activities, the development, testing and validation of credit forecasting models and a new credit scoring system for significant loan portfolio segments, reassessment of risk rating grades and matrix, as well as development of the policies, systems and controls required to fully implement CECL. The new standard is effective for the Company for annual periods, and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2019, with a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings at the date of adoption. On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted the new CECL standard and recorded entries that resulted in an aggregate allowance for credit losses of $83.6 million within the consolidated balance sheets. The transition adjustment resulted in a net of tax, decrease of $5.7 million to opening retained earnings at January 1, 2020. The decrease to retained earnings included an initial estimate of lifetime expected credit losses for PCD loans and was recognized through a balance sheet gross-up. While not material, the impact of the adoption of CECL also affected the Company’s regulatory capital, performance and other asset quality ratios. Future changes in the allowance for credit losses are expected to be volatile given dependence upon, among other things, the portfolio composition and quality, as well as the impact of significant drivers, including prepayment assumptions and macroeconomic conditions and forecasts.

Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Adopted

In March 2020, FASB issued ASU 2020-04, which is intended to provide temporary optional expedients and exceptions to the GAAP guidance on contract modifications and hedge accounting to ease the financial reporting burdens related to the expected market transition from the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. This guidance is effective beginning on March 12, 2020, and the Company may elect to apply the amendments prospectively through December 31, 2022. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of the amendment and the impact on its future consolidated financial statements.

In January 2020, FASB issued ASU 2020-01 to clarify the interaction among ASC 321, ASC 323, and ASC 815 for equity securities, equity method investments, and certain financial instruments to acquire equity securities. ASU 2020-01 clarifies whether re-measurement of equity investments is appropriate when observable transactions cause the equity method to be triggered or discontinued. ASU 2020-01 also provides that certain forward contracts and purchased options to acquire equity securities will be measured under ASC 321 without an assessment of subsequent accounting upon settlement or exercise. The amendment is effective in periods beginning after December 15, 2020. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2020-01 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

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T

3. Discontinued Operations

NLC Sale

On June 30, 2020, Hilltop completed the sale of all of the outstanding capital stock of NLC, which comprised the operations of the insurance segment, for cash proceeds of $154.1 million. Hilltop recognized a gain associated with this transaction of $32.3 million, net of customary transaction costs of $5.1 million and was subject to post-closing adjustments. During the third quarter of 2020, Hilltop recognized a $0.7 million pre-tax post-closing adjustment to income from discontinued operations related to the finalization of the June 30, 2020 closing balance sheet, resulting in an aggregate gain on the sale of NLC of $33.1 million. The resulting book gain from this sale transaction was not recognized for tax purposes due to the excess tax basis over book basis being greater than the recorded book gain. Any tax loss related to this transaction is deemed disallowed pursuant to the rules under the Internal Revenue Code.

During the first quarter of 2020, management had determined that the pending sale of NLC met the criteria to be presented as discontinued operations. Therefore, NLC’s results and its assets and liabilities have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements. All related notes to consolidated financial statements for discontinued operations have been included in this note. The following table details the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities of NLC reflected in the consolidated balance sheet under the caption “Assets of discontinued operations” and “Liabilities of discontinued operations”, respectively.

December 31,

    

2019

Assets

Cash and due from banks

$

51,333

Securities:

Available for sale, at fair value

86,899

Equity, at fair value

19,841

106,740

Premises and equipment, net

9,607

Operating lease right-of-use assets

2,739

Other assets

50,533

Goodwill

23,988

Other intangible assets, net

3,489

Total assets of discontinued operations

$

248,429

Liabilities

Notes payable

$

27,500

Operating lease liabilities

2,783

Other liabilities

110,391

Total liabilities of discontinued operations

$

140,674

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The following table presents the results of discontinued operations for NLC for the periods indicated.

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

    

2019

2020

2019

Interest income:

Securities:

Taxable

$

$

879

$

1,752

$

2,745

Other

137

71

429

Total interest income

1,016

1,823

3,174

Interest expense:

Notes payable

450

775

1,374

Noninterest income:

Net insurance premiums earned

32,654

65,077

99,323

Other

2,242

3,051

8,246

Total noninterest income

34,896

68,128

107,569

Noninterest expense:

Employees' compensation and benefits

2,748

6,002

8,734

Occupancy and equipment, net

200

464

725

Professional services

8,874

18,201

27,687

Loss and loss adjustment expenses

14,677

38,419

54,584

Other

2,424

3,987

7,120

Total noninterest expense

28,923

67,073

98,850

Income from discontinued operations before income taxes

6,539

2,103

10,519

Gain on disposal of discontinued operations

736

33,077

Income tax expense

1,278

518

2,152

Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

$

736

$

5,261

$

34,662

$

8,367

Securities

The available for sale securities held by NLC at December 31, 2019 reflected in the consolidated balance sheets under the caption “Assets of discontinued operations” were primarily comprised of U.S. Treasury, residential mortgage-backed and corporate debt securities with aggregate unrealized gross gains of $2.5 million and measured using Level 2 inputs on a recurring basis. NLC’s available for sale portfolio had nominal unrealized gross losses at December 31, 2019.

NLC had unrealized net gains of $1.1 million from the equity securities held at December 31, 2019, measured using Level 1 inputs on a recurring basis. No activity was recognized for NLC equity securities for the three months ended September 30, 2020 as the sale was finalized June 30, 2020. NLC recognized net losses of $0.1 million during the three months ended September 30, 2019, and recognized net gains of $1.4 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2019 due to changes in the fair value of equity securities still held at the balance sheet date.

Reinsurance Activity

The effects of reinsurance on premiums written and earned are included within discontinued operations for all periods presented and are summarized as follows (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

2020

2019

   

Written

    

Earned

    

Written

    

Earned

    

Written

    

Earned

    

Written

 

Earned

 

Premiums from direct business

$

$

$

31,269

$

31,698

$

63,811

$

61,384

$

97,621

$

95,161

Reinsurance assumed

 

 

 

3,440

 

3,289

 

6,396

 

6,452

 

10,191

 

9,736

Reinsurance ceded

 

 

 

(2,333)

 

(2,333)

 

(2,759)

 

(2,759)

 

(5,574)

 

(5,574)

Net premiums

$

$

$

32,376

$

32,654

$

67,448

$

65,077

$

102,238

$

99,323

18

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The effects of reinsurance on incurred losses and LAE are included within discontinued operations for all periods and are as follows (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

    

2020

    

2019

    

2020

    

2019

 

Losses and LAE incurred

$

$

14,508

$

38,225

$

53,450

Reinsurance recoverables

 

 

169

 

194

 

1,134

Net loss and LAE incurred

$

$

14,677

$

38,419

$

54,584

4. Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures

The Company determines fair values in compliance with The Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Topic of the ASC (the “Fair Value Topic”). The Fair Value Topic defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in GAAP and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. The Fair Value Topic defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. The Fair Value Topic assumes that transactions upon which fair value measurements are based occur in the principal market for the asset or liability being measured. Further, fair value measurements made under the Fair Value Topic exclude transaction costs and are not the result of forced transactions.

The Fair Value Topic includes a fair value hierarchy that classifies fair value measurements based upon the inputs used in valuing the assets or liabilities that are the subject of fair value measurements. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs, as indicated below.

Level 1 Inputs: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company can access at the measurement date.

Level 2 Inputs: Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (such as interest rates, yield curves, prepayment speeds, default rates, credit risks and loss severities), and inputs that are derived from or corroborated by market data, among others.

Level 3 Inputs: Unobservable inputs that reflect an entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the assets or liabilities. Level 3 inputs include pricing models and discounted cash flow techniques, among others.

Fair Value Option

The Company has elected to measure PrimeLending’s retained mortgage servicing rights (“MSR”) asset and substantially all of mortgage loans held for sale at fair value, under the provisions of the Fair Value Option. The Company elected to apply the provisions of the Fair Value Option to these items so that it would have the opportunity to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently without having to apply complex hedge accounting provisions. At September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the aggregate fair value of PrimeLending’s mortgage loans held for sale accounted for under the Fair Value Option was $2.34 billion and $1.94 billion, respectively, and the unpaid principal balance of those loans was $2.24 billion and $1.88 billion, respectively. The interest component of fair value is reported as interest income on loans in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

19

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The Company holds a number of financial instruments that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, either by the application of the Fair Value Option or other authoritative pronouncements. The fair values of those instruments are determined primarily using Level 2 inputs. Those inputs include quotes from mortgage loan investors and derivatives dealers and data from independent pricing services. The fair value of loans held for sale is determined using an exit price method.

The following tables present information regarding financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in thousands).

    

Level 1

    

Level 2

    

Level 3

    

Total

 

September 30, 2020

Inputs

Inputs

Inputs

Fair Value

 

Trading securities

$

20,859

$

646,892

$

$

667,751

Available for sale securities

1,310,240

1,310,240

Equity securities

117

117

Loans held for sale

2,272,002

72,186

2,344,188

Derivative assets

169,005

169,005

MSR asset

127,712

127,712

Securities sold, not yet purchased

32,178

23,845

56,023

Derivative liabilities

56,104

56,104

    

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

   

Total

December 31, 2019

Inputs

Inputs

Inputs

Fair Value

Trading securities

$

$

689,576

$

$

689,576

Available for sale securities

911,493

911,493

Equity securities

166

166

Loans held for sale

1,868,518

67,195

1,935,713

Derivative assets

33,129

33,129

MSR asset

55,504

55,504

Securities sold, not yet purchased

29,080

14,737

43,817

Derivative liabilities

17,140

17,140

20

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The following tables include a rollforward for those financial instruments measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs (in thousands).

Total Gains or Losses

 

(Realized or Unrealized)

 

   

Balance at

   

   

   

    

   

  

Included in Other

   

 

Beginning of

Purchases/

Sales/

Transfers to

Included in

Comprehensive

Balance at

 

Period

Additions

Reductions

(from) Level 3

Net Income

Income (Loss)

End of Period

 

Three months ended September 30, 2020

Loans held for sale

$

91,936

$

5,338

$

(20,182)

$

1,097

$

(6,003)

$

$

72,186

MSR asset

 

81,264

59,351

(12,903)

 

127,712

Total

$

173,200

$

64,689

$

(20,182)

$

1,097

$

(18,906)

$

$

199,898

Nine months ended September 30, 2020

Loans held for sale

$

67,195

$

53,961

$

(51,125)

$

10,064

$

(7,909)

$

$

72,186

MSR asset

55,504

123,266

(18,650)

(32,408)

127,712

Total

$

122,699

$

177,227

$

(69,775)

$

10,064

$

(40,317)

$

$

199,898

Three months ended September 30, 2019

Loans held for sale

$

56,799

$

15,347

$

(9,364)

$

711

$

(2,589)

$

$

60,904

MSR asset

53,695

4,166

(6,564)

51,297

Total

$

110,494

$

19,513

$

(9,364)

$

711

$

(9,153)

$

$

112,201

Nine months ended September 30, 2019

Loans held for sale

$

50,464

$

44,827

$

(27,448)

1,136

$

(8,075)

$

$

60,904

MSR asset

66,102

8,574

(23,379)

51,297

Total

$

116,566

$

53,401

$

(27,448)

$

1,136

$

(31,454)

$

$

112,201

All net realized and unrealized gains (losses) in the tables above are reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The unrealized gains (losses) relate to financial instruments still held at September 30, 2020.

For Level 3 financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurements were as follows.

Range (Weighted-Average)

September 30,

December 31,

Financial instrument

    

Valuation Technique

    

Unobservable Inputs

    

2020

2019

Loans held for sale

Market comparable

Projected price

88

-

96

%

(

95

%)

92

-

96

%

(

95

%)

MSR asset

Discounted cash flows

Constant prepayment rate

12.97

%

13.16

%

Discount rate

14.65

%

11.14

%

The fair value of certain loans held for sale that cannot be sold through normal sale channels or are non-performing is measured using Level 3 inputs. The fair value of such loans is generally based upon estimates of expected cash flows using unobservable inputs, including listing prices of comparable assets, uncorroborated expert opinions, and/or management’s knowledge of underlying collateral.

The MSR asset is reported at fair value using Level 3 inputs. The MSR asset is valued by projecting net servicing cash flows, which are then discounted to estimate the fair value. The fair value of the MSR asset is impacted by a variety of factors. Prepayment rates and discount rates, the most significant unobservable inputs, are discussed further in Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements. The increase in the weighted average discount rate used to value the MSR asset at September 30, 2020, compared to December 31, 2019, addresses the effect of the reduction in third-party servicing

21

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

outlets beginning in the second quarter of 2020 resulting from the impact of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”). The CARES Act permits borrowers of federally-backed mortgage loans to forbear payments, which could negatively impact servicers’ liquidity and their ability to purchase servicing.

The Company had no transfers between Levels 1 and 2 during the periods presented. Any transfers are based on changes in the observability and/or significance of the valuation inputs and are assumed to occur at the beginning of the quarterly reporting period in which they occur.

The following table presents those changes in fair value of instruments recognized in the consolidated statements of operations that are accounted for under the Fair Value Option (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30, 2020

Three Months Ended September 30, 2019

   

   

Other

   

Total

   

   

Other

   

Total

 

Net

Noninterest

Changes in

Net

Noninterest

Changes in

Gains (Losses)

Income

Fair Value

Gains (Losses)

Income

Fair Value

Loans held for sale

$

(9,167)

$

$

(9,167)

$

4,117

$

$

4,117

MSR asset

 

(12,903)

 

 

(12,903)

 

(6,564)

 

 

(6,564)

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019

   

   

Other

   

Total

   

   

Other

   

Total

 

Net

Noninterest

Changes in

Net

Noninterest

Changes in

Gains (Losses)

Income

Fair Value

Gains (Losses)

Income

Fair Value

Loans held for sale

$

49,311

$

$

49,311

$

7,972

$

$

7,972

MSR asset

 

(32,408)

 

 

(32,408)

 

(23,379)

 

 

(23,379)

The Fair Value of Financial Instruments Subsection of the ASC requires disclosure of the fair value of financial assets and liabilities, including the financial assets and liabilities previously discussed. There have been no changes to the methods for determining estimated fair value for financial assets and liabilities as described in detail in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s 2019 Form 10-K.

The following tables present the carrying values and estimated fair values of financial instruments not measured at fair value on either a recurring or non-recurring basis (in thousands).

Estimated Fair Value

 

    

Carrying

    

Level 1

    

Level 2

    

Level 3

    

 

September 30, 2020

Amount

Inputs

Inputs

Inputs

Total

 

Financial assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

$

1,278,285

$

1,278,285

$

$

$

1,278,285

Assets segregated for regulatory purposes

221,621

221,621

221,621

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

90,103

90,103

90,103

Held to maturity securities

323,299

338,929

338,929

Loans held for sale

203,787

203,787

203,787

Loans held for investment, net

7,790,346

502,295

7,388,992

7,891,287

Broker-dealer and clearing organization receivables

 

1,363,478

 

 

1,363,478

 

 

1,363,478

Other assets

 

73,173

 

 

71,628

 

1,545

 

73,173

Financial liabilities:

Deposits

 

11,261,915

 

 

11,280,154

 

 

11,280,154

Broker-dealer and clearing organization payables

 

1,310,835

 

 

1,310,835

 

 

1,310,835

Short-term borrowings

 

780,109

 

 

780,109

 

 

780,109

Debt

 

463,018

 

 

463,018

 

 

463,018

Other liabilities

 

13,885

 

 

13,885

 

 

13,885

22

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

Estimated Fair Value

 

    

Carrying

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

   

 

December 31, 2019

Amount

Inputs

Inputs

Inputs

Total

 

Financial assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

$

434,020

$

434,020

$

$

$

434,020

Assets segregated for regulatory purposes

157,436

157,436

157,436

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

59,031

59,031

59,031

Held to maturity securities

386,326

388,930

388,930

Loans held for sale

170,648

170,648

170,648

Loans held for investment, net

7,320,264

576,527

6,990,706

7,567,233

Broker-dealer and clearing organization receivables

 

1,780,280

 

 

1,780,280

 

 

1,780,280

Other assets

 

71,040

 

 

69,580

 

1,460

 

71,040

Financial liabilities:

Deposits

 

9,032,214

 

 

9,032,496

 

 

9,032,496

Broker-dealer and clearing organization payables

 

1,605,518

 

 

1,605,518

 

 

1,605,518

Short-term borrowings

 

1,424,010

 

 

1,424,010

 

 

1,424,010

Debt

 

323,281

 

 

323,281

 

 

323,281

Other liabilities

 

8,340

 

 

8,340

 

 

8,340

The Company held equity investments other than securities of $62.7 million and $36.6 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, which are included within other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Of the $62.7 million of such equity investments held at September 30, 2020, $22.0 million do not have readily determinable fair values and each is measured at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer. The following table presents the adjustments to the carrying value of these investments during the periods presented (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

    

2020

   

2019

2020

    

2019

Balance, beginning of period

 

$

20,613

 

$

19,906

$

19,771

 

$

20,376

Additional investments

Upward adjustments

2,221

101

3,852

303

Impairments and downward adjustments

(826)

(346)

(1,615)

(1,018)

Dispositions

 

 

 

 

Balance, end of period

$

22,008

$

19,661

$

22,008

$

19,661

5. Securities

The fair value of trading securities is summarized as follows (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

    

2020

    

2019

 

 

U.S. Treasury securities

 

$

20,859

 

$

 

 

U.S. government agencies:

Bonds

51,707

24,680

Residential mortgage-backed securities

 

13,951

 

331,601

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

 

891

 

2,145

Collateralized mortgage obligations

372,219

191,154

Corporate debt securities

62,837

36,973

States and political subdivisions

135,068

93,117

Unit investment trusts

3,468

Private-label securitized product

6,752

2,992

Other

3,467

3,446

Totals

$

667,751

$

689,576

23

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

In addition to the securities shown above, the Hilltop Broker-Dealers enter into transactions that represent commitments to purchase and deliver securities at prevailing future market prices to facilitate customer transactions and satisfy such commitments. Accordingly, the Hilltop Broker-Dealers’ ultimate obligations may exceed the amount recognized in the financial statements. These securities, which are carried at fair value and reported as securities sold, not yet purchased in the consolidated balance sheets, had a value of $56.0 million and $43.8 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

The amortized cost and fair value of available for sale and held to maturity securities are summarized as follows (in thousands).

Available for Sale

Amortized

Unrealized

Unrealized

 

September 30, 2020

Cost

Gains

Losses

Fair Value

 

U.S. government agencies:

Bonds

$

56,781

$

1,204

$

(45)

$

57,940

Residential mortgage-backed securities

 

579,725

 

17,553

 

(285)

 

596,993

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

63,570

 

926

 

(204)

 

64,292

Collateralized mortgage obligations

 

540,326

 

8,454

 

(303)

 

548,477

States and political subdivisions

 

40,018

 

2,520

 

 

42,538

Totals

$

1,280,420

$

30,657

$

(837)

$

1,310,240

Available for Sale

Amortized

Unrealized

Unrealized

 

December 31, 2019

Cost

Gains

Losses

Fair Value

 

U.S. government agencies:

Bonds

$

84,590

$

1,049

$

(64)

$

85,575

Residential mortgage-backed securities

 

430,514

 

6,662

 

(147)

 

437,029

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

11,488

 

543

 

 

12,031

Collateralized mortgage obligations

 

333,256

 

3,175

 

(815)

 

335,616

States and political subdivisions

 

39,969

 

1,273

 

 

41,242

Totals

$

899,817

$

12,702

$

(1,026)

$

911,493

Held to Maturity

 

Amortized

Unrealized

Unrealized

 

September 30, 2020

    

Cost

    

Gains

    

Losses

    

Fair Value

 

U.S. government agencies:

 

Residential mortgage-backed securities

$

14,659

$

790

$

$

15,449

 

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

153,318

 

10,245

 

 

163,563

 

Collateralized mortgage obligations

 

84,670

 

2,288

 

 

86,958

 

States and political subdivisions

 

70,652

 

2,321

 

(14)

 

72,959

 

Totals

$

323,299

$

15,644

$

(14)

$

338,929

 

Held to Maturity

 

Amortized

Unrealized

Unrealized

 

December 31, 2019

   

Cost

   

Gains

 

Losses

   

Fair Value

 

U.S. government agencies:

Bonds

$

24,020

$

10

$

(35)

$

23,995

Residential mortgage-backed securities

 

17,776

 

295

 

 

18,071

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

161,624

2,810

(655)

163,779

Collateralized mortgage obligations

 

113,894

 

226

 

(904)

 

113,216

States and political subdivisions

 

69,012

 

1,013

 

(156)

 

69,869

Totals

$

386,326

$

4,354

$

(1,750)

$

388,930

24

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

Additionally, the Company had unrealized net gains of $0.1 million at both September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2020 from equity securities with fair values of $0.1 million and $0.2 million held at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. The Company recognized nominal net losses during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, due to changes in the fair value of equity securities still held at the balance sheet date. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, net gains recognized from equity securities sold were nominal.

Information regarding available for sale and held to maturity securities that were in an unrealized loss position is shown in the following tables (dollars in thousands).

September 30, 2020

December 31, 2019

 

    

Number of

    

   

Unrealized

   

Number of

   

   

Unrealized

 

Securities

Fair Value

Losses

Securities

Fair Value

Losses

 

Available for Sale

U.S. government agencies:

Bonds:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

3

$

24,955

$

45

 

2

$

24,937

$

64

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3

24,955

45

 

2

 

24,937

 

64

Residential mortgage-backed securities:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

6

 

58,891

 

285

 

37

 

36,187

 

87

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

 

 

 

2

 

13,683

 

58

 

6

58,891

285

 

39

 

49,870

 

145

Commercial mortgage-backed securities:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

2

 

18,913

 

204

 

1

 

9,967

 

2

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

18,913

204

 

1

 

9,967

 

2

Collateralized mortgage obligations:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

6

 

74,131

 

248

 

15

 

94,545

 

446

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

5

 

14,659

 

55

 

13

 

46,217

 

369

 

11

88,790

303

 

28

 

140,762

 

815

States and political subdivisions:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

 

 

 

1

 

487

 

 

 

1

 

487

 

Total available for sale:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

17

 

176,890

 

782

 

55

 

165,636

 

599

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

5

 

14,659

 

55

 

16

 

60,387

 

427

 

22

$

191,549

$

837

 

71

$

226,023

$

1,026

September 30, 2020

December 31, 2019

 

    

Number of

    

   

Unrealized

    

Number of

   

   

Unrealized

 

Securities

Fair Value

Losses

Securities

Fair Value

Losses

 

Held to Maturity

 

U.S. government agencies:

Bonds:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

$

$

 

2

$

9,665

$

35

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

 

9,665

 

35

Commercial mortgage-backed securities:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

 

 

 

8

 

44,610

 

656

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8

 

44,610

 

656

Collateralized mortgage obligations:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

 

 

 

4

 

23,904

 

287

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

 

 

 

8

 

59,560

 

617

 

 

 

 

12

 

83,464

 

904

States and political subdivisions:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

9

 

2,993

 

14

 

38

 

15,996

 

124

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

 

 

 

4

 

1,099

 

31

 

9

 

2,993

 

14

 

42

 

17,095

 

155

Total held to maturity:

Unrealized loss for less than twelve months

 

9

 

2,993

 

14

 

52

 

94,175

 

1,102

Unrealized loss for twelve months or longer

 

 

 

 

12

 

60,659

 

648

 

9

$

2,993

$

14

 

64

$

154,834

$

1,750

25

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without penalties. The amortized cost and fair value of securities, excluding trading and equity securities, at September 30, 2020 are shown by contractual maturity below (in thousands).

Available for Sale

Held to Maturity

   

Amortized

    

    

Amortized

    

 

Cost

Fair Value

 

Cost

Fair Value

 

Due in one year or less

$

4,994

$

5,097

$

651

$

654

Due after one year through five years

 

55,385

 

56,825

 

1,215

 

1,274

Due after five years through ten years

 

19,117

 

19,915

 

8,208

 

8,504

Due after ten years

 

17,303

 

18,641

 

60,578

 

62,527

 

96,799

 

100,478

 

70,652

 

72,959

Residential mortgage-backed securities

 

579,725

 

596,993

 

14,659

 

15,449

Collateralized mortgage obligations

 

540,326

 

548,477

 

84,670

 

86,958

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

 

63,570

 

64,292

 

153,318

 

163,563

$

1,280,420

$

1,310,240

$

323,299

$

338,929

The Company recognized net gains of $86.2 million and $4.4 million from its trading portfolio during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively and $106.7 million and $15.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. In addition, the Hilltop Broker-Dealers realized a net loss of $14.4 million and $43.3 million during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $27.8 million and $99.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, from structured product trading activities. The Company had nominal other realized gains on securities during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and other realized gains on securities was $0.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, while other realized losses on securities were $2.6 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019. All such realized gains and losses are recorded as a component of other noninterest income within the consolidated statements of operations.

Securities with a carrying amount of $541.3 million and $576.0 million (with a fair value of $562.9 million and $583.6 million, respectively) at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, were pledged by the Bank to secure public and trust deposits, federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase, and for other purposes as required or permitted by law. Substantially all of these pledged securities were included in the available for sale and held to maturity securities portfolios at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019.

Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations consist primarily of Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”), Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA”) and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“FHLMC”) pass-through and participation certificates. GNMA securities are guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the United States, while FNMA and FHLMC securities are fully guaranteed by those respective United States government-sponsored enterprises, and conditionally guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the United States.

Allowance for Credit Losses for Available for Sale Securities and Held to Maturity Securities

The Company has evaluated available for sale debt securities that are in an unrealized loss position and has determined that any declines in value are unrelated to credit loss and are related to changes in market interest rates since purchase. None of the available for sale debt securities held were past due at September 30, 2020. In addition, as of September 30, 2020, the Company had evaluated its held to maturity debt securities, considering the current credit ratings and recognized losses, and determined the potential credit loss to be minimal. With respect to these securities, the Company considered the risk of credit loss to be negligible, and therefore, no allowance was recognized on the debt securities portfolio at September 30, 2020.

26

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

6. Loans Held for Investment

Loans held for investment summarized by portfolio segment are as follows (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

    

2020

    

2019

Commercial real estate

$

3,073,038

$

3,000,523

Commercial and industrial (1)

 

2,848,289

 

2,025,720

Construction and land development

 

841,385

 

940,564

1-4 family residential

643,833

 

791,020

Consumer

36,720

 

47,046

Broker-dealer (2)

502,295

 

576,527

 

7,945,560

 

7,381,400

Allowance for credit losses

 

(155,214)

 

(61,136)

Total loans held for investment, net of allowance

$

7,790,346

$

7,320,264

(1)Included loans totaling $670.7 million at September 30, 2020 funded through the Paycheck Protection Program.
(2)Primarily represents margin loans to customers and correspondents associated with broker-dealer segment operations.

The following table provides details associated with non-accrual loans, excluding those classified as held for sale (in thousands).

Non-accrual Loans

September 30, 2020

Interest Income Recognized (1)

With

With No

December 31,

Three Months Ended

Nine Months Ended

    

Allowance

    

Allowance

    

Total

2019

September 30, 2020

September 30, 2020

Commercial real estate:

Non-owner occupied

$

1,049

$

1,598

$

2,647

$

3,813

$

99

$

88

Owner occupied

 

2,155

9,277

11,432

3,495

156

241

Commercial and industrial

23,006

15,702

38,708

15,262

312

714

Construction and land development

 

105

423

528

1,316

36

89

1-4 family residential

 

6,205

14,394

20,599

7,382

134

1,299

Consumer

 

53

53

26

2

(1)

Broker-dealer

 

$

32,573

$

41,394

$

73,967

$

31,294

$

739

$

2,430

(1)Interest income recognized on non-accrual loans during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 was $0.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively.

At September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, an additional $8.1 million and $4.8 million, respectively, of real estate loans secured by residential properties and classified as held for sale were in non-accrual status.

Loans accounted for on a non-accrual basis increased from December 31, 2019 to September 30, 2020, primarily due to the addition of two commercial and industrial relationships totaling $19.3 million, commercial real estate loans totaling $12.7 million and various 1-4 family residential loans. The increase in commercial real estate loans in non-accrual status at September 30, 2020 of $6.8 million was primarily related to the addition of 24 loans totaling $12.7 million, with a reserve of $1.4 million, that were previously accruing at December 31, 2019. This increase from December 31, 2019 was partially offset by the settlement of a single loan accounted for on a non-accrual basis with a carrying amount of $2.5 million. The increase in commercial and industrial loans in non-accrual status since December 31, 2019 was primarily due to two relationships that included six loans totaling $19.3 million and had a $4.2 million reserve at September 30, 2020 and a CECL transition gross-up adjustment of $4.6 million related to a loan with an amortized cost of $6.8 million and a reserve of $5.2 million at September 30, 2020. The increase in 1-4 family residential loans in non-accrual status at September 30, 2020, compared to December 31, 2019, was primarily related to the classification of $4.0 million of loans as non-accrual, that were previously classified as accruing.

27

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The Company considers non-accrual loans to be collateral-dependent unless there are underlying mitigating circumstances. The practical expedient to measure the allowance using the fair value of the collateral has been implemented.

The Bank classifies loan modifications as troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”) when it concludes that it has both granted a concession to a debtor and that the debtor is experiencing financial difficulties. Loan modifications are typically structured to create affordable payments for the debtor and can be achieved in a variety of ways. The Bank modifies loans by reducing interest rates and/or lengthening loan amortization schedules. The Bank may also reconfigure a single loan into two or more loans (“A/B Note”). The typical A/B Note restructure results in a “bad” loan which is charged off and a “good” loan or loans, the terms of which comply with the Bank’s customary underwriting policies. The debt charged off on the “bad” loan is not forgiven to the debtor.

In March 2020, the CARES Act was passed, which, among other things, allows the Bank to suspend the requirements for certain loan modifications to be categorized as a TDR. The Bank’s COVID-19 payment deferral programs allow for a deferral of principal and/or interest payments with such deferred principal payments due and payable on maturity date of the existing loan. The Bank’s actions included approval of $968.1 million in COVID-19 related loan modifications as of June 30, 2020. During the third quarter of 2020, the Bank continued to support its impacted banking clients through the approval of COVID-19 related loan modifications, which resulted in an additional $57.7 million of new COVID-19 related loan modifications since June 30, 2020. The portfolio of active deferrals that have not reached the end of their deferral period was $291.4 million as of September 30, 2020, of which approximately $208 million had received an additional deferral. COVID-19 related loan modifications of approximately $662 million have returned to agreed-upon contractual terms and had made at least one required principal and/or interest payment since the end of their initial deferral period. Such loans represent elevated risk, therefore management continues to monitor these loans. The extent to which these measures will impact the Bank is uncertain, and any progression of loans, whether receiving COVID-19 payment deferrals or not, into non-accrual status during future periods is uncertain and will depend on future developments that cannot be predicted.

There were no TDRs granted during the three months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to two commercial and industrial TDRs granted during the comparable period in 2019, with a balance of $1.6 million at date of extension and at September 30, 2019. Information regarding TDRs granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, is shown in the following table (dollars in thousands).

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019

    

    

Number of

    

Balance at

    

Balance at

   

Number of

    

Balance at

   

Balance at

Loans

Extension

End of Period

Loans

Extension

End of Period

Commercial real estate:

Non-owner occupied

$

$

$

$

Owner occupied

 

 

 

 

Commercial and industrial

2

 

7,839

 

3,166

5

 

9,632

 

9,113

Construction and land development

 

 

 

 

1-4 family residential

 

 

 

 

Consumer

 

 

 

 

Broker-dealer

 

 

 

 

2

 

$

7,839

 

$

3,166

 

5

 

$

9,632

 

$

9,113

The Bank had nominal unadvanced commitments to borrowers whose loans had been restructured in TDRs at September 30, 2020 and at December 31, 2019. There were no TDRs granted during the twelve months preceding September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019, for which a payment was at least 30 days past due.

28

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

An analysis of the aging of the Company’s loan portfolio is shown in the following tables (in thousands).

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

Accruing Loans

 

Loans Past Due

Loans Past Due

Loans Past Due

Total

Current

Total

Past Due

 

September 30, 2020

30-59 Days

60-89 Days

90 Days or More

Past Due Loans

Loans

Loans

90 Days or More

 

Commercial real estate:

Non-owner occupied

$

2,389

$

2,876

$

200

$

5,465

$

1,749,896

$

1,755,361

$

Owner occupied

 

3,227

 

2,272

6,267

 

11,766

 

1,305,911

1,317,677

Commercial and industrial

1,953

 

3,271

19,337

 

24,561

 

2,823,728

2,848,289

2

Construction and land development

 

2

 

 

2

 

841,383

841,385

1-4 family residential

 

3,600

 

3,404

15,150

 

22,154

 

621,679

643,833

Consumer

 

12

 

251

52

 

315

 

36,405

36,720

Broker-dealer

 

 

 

 

502,295

502,295

$

11,183

$

12,074

$

41,006

$

64,263

$

7,881,297

$

7,945,560

$

2

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

Accruing Loans

 

Loans Past Due

Loans Past Due

Loans Past Due

Total

Current

Total

Past Due

 

December 31, 2019

30-59 Days

60-89 Days

90 Days or More

Past Due Loans

Loans

Loans

90 Days or More

 

Commercial real estate:

Non-owner occupied

$

4,062

$

$

2,790

$

6,852

$

1,702,500

$

1,709,352

$

Owner occupied

 

1,813

880

3,265

 

5,958

 

1,285,213

1,291,171

Commercial and industrial

5,967

1,735

3,395

 

11,097

 

2,014,623

2,025,720

3

Construction and land development

 

7,580

1,827

 

9,407

 

931,157

940,564

1-4 family residential

 

12,058

3,442

6,520

 

22,020

 

769,000

791,020

Consumer

 

455

34

 

489

 

46,557

47,046

Broker-dealer

 

 

 

576,527

576,527

$

31,935

$

7,918

$

15,970

$

55,823

$

7,325,577

$

7,381,400

$

3

In addition to the loans shown in the tables above, PrimeLending had $187.1 million and $102.7 million of loans included in loans held for sale (with an aggregate unpaid principal balance of $188.5 million and $104.0 million, respectively) that were 90 days past due and accruing interest at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. These loans are guaranteed by U.S. government agencies and include loans that are subject to repurchase, or have been repurchased, by PrimeLending.

Management tracks credit quality trends on a quarterly basis related to: (i) past due levels, (ii) non-performing asset levels, (iii) classified loan levels and (iv) general economic conditions in state and local markets. The Company defines classified loans as loans with a risk rating of substandard, doubtful or loss.

29

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

A description of the risk rating internal grades for commercial loans is presented in the following table.

Risk Rating

Internal Grade

Risk Rating Description

Pass low risk

1 - 3

Represents loans to very high credit quality commercial borrowers of investment or near investment grade. These borrowers have significant capital strength, moderate leverage, stable earnings and growth, and readily available financing alternatives. Commercial borrowers entirely cash secured are also included in this category.

Pass normal risk

4 - 7

Represents loans to commercial borrowers of solid credit quality with moderate risk. Borrowers in these grades are differentiated from higher grades on the basis of size (capital and/or revenue), leverage, asset quality and the stability of the industry or market area.

Pass high risk

8 - 10

Represents "pass grade" loans to commercial borrowers of higher, but acceptable credit quality and risk. Such borrowers are differentiated from Pass Normal Risk in terms of size, secondary sources of repayment or they are of lesser stature in other key credit metrics.

Watch

11

Represents loans on management's "watch list" and is intended to be utilized on a temporary basis for pass grade commercial borrowers where a significant risk-modifying action is anticipated in the near term.

Special mention

12

Represents loans with potential weaknesses that deserve management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in a deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loans and weaken the Company's credit position at some future date.

Substandard accrual

13

Represents loans for which the accrual of interest has not been stopped, but are inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt and are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.

Substandard non-accrual

14

Represents loans for which the accrual of interest has been stopped and includes loans where interest is more than 90 days past due and not fully secured and loans where a specific valuation allowance may be necessary.

Doubtful

15

Represents loans that are placed on non-accrual status and may be dependent upon collateral having a value that is difficult to determine or upon some near-term event which lacks certainty.

Loss

16

Represents loans that are to be charged-off or charged-down when payment is acknowledged to be uncertain or when the timing or value of payments cannot be determined. Rating is not intended to imply that the loan or some portion of it will never be paid, nor does it in any way imply that there has been a forgiveness of debt.

30

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The following table presents loans held for investment grouped by asset class and credit quality indicator, segregated by year of origination or renewal (in thousands).

Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year

2015 and

September 30, 2020

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

Prior

Revolving

Total

Commercial real estate: non-owner occupied

Internal Grade 1-3 (Pass low risk)

$

13,190

$

33,533

$

3,044

$

2,300

$

13,184

$

15,748

$

401

$

81,400

Internal Grade 4-7 (Pass normal risk)

211,586

138,426

118,655

102,274

124,166

91,656

32,904

819,667

Internal Grade 8-11 (Pass high risk and watch)

127,747

160,637

118,055

91,650

124,628

62,187

483

685,387

Internal Grade 12 (Special mention)

Internal Grade 13 (Substandard accrual)

30,756

16,328

27,592

29,928

30,808

30,848

166,260

Internal Grade 14 (Substandard non-accrual)

2,647

2,647

Commercial real estate: owner occupied

Internal Grade 1-3 (Pass low risk)

$

46,605

$

32,541

$

10,711

$

42,978

$

24,894

$

39,509

$

1

$

197,239

Internal Grade 4-7 (Pass normal risk)

136,710

161,028

148,623

64,900

54,981

94,698

30,820

691,760

Internal Grade 8-11 (Pass high risk and watch)

95,828

76,806

47,453

26,881

29,485

31,409

927

308,789

Internal Grade 12 (Special mention)

370

2,316

538

3,224

Internal Grade 13 (Substandard accrual)

7,573

3,588

69,465

7,717

6,732

10,158

105,233

Internal Grade 14 (Substandard non-accrual)

508

2,248

517

5,361

1,888

910

11,432

Commercial and industrial

Internal Grade 1-3 (Pass low risk)

$

32,808

$

16,361

$

5,850

$

12,387

$

4,315

$

87

$

16,874

$

88,682

Internal Grade 4-7 (Pass normal risk)

135,087

76,615

63,222

26,560

15,081

13,306

330,928

660,799

Internal Grade 8-11 (Pass high risk and watch)

76,601

68,298

29,181

15,989

30,392

2,548

197,296

420,305

Internal Grade 12 (Special mention)

802

16

4,126

267

2,323

7,534

Internal Grade 13 (Substandard accrual)

25,592

4,553

12,663

6,327

7,546

358

21,994

79,033

Internal Grade 14 (Substandard non-accrual)

23,736

6,906

1,850

350

920

3,538

1,408

38,708

Construction and land development

Internal Grade 1-3 (Pass low risk)

$

16,747

$

1,979

$

22,828

$

272

$

1,088

$

290

$

2,027

$

45,231

Internal Grade 4-7 (Pass normal risk)

147,952

127,287

66,772

22,092

6,100

3,918

36,221

410,342

Internal Grade 8-11 (Pass high risk and watch)

165,359

107,915

45,176

25,883

3,656

929

3,635

352,553

Internal Grade 12 (Special mention)

Internal Grade 13 (Substandard accrual)

3,088

2,396

5,385

74

10,943

Internal Grade 14 (Substandard non-accrual)

423

105

528

Construction and land development - individuals

FICO less than 620

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

FICO between 620 and 720

2,142

82

1,460

3,684

FICO greater than 720

11,426

279

5,975

17,680

Substandard non-accrual

Other (1)

424

424

1-4 family residential

FICO less than 620

$

991

$

851

$

3,679

$

57

$

931

$

34,503

$

532

$

41,544

FICO between 620 and 720

15,184

20,358

10,077

8,858

12,689

40,560

1,317

109,043

FICO greater than 720

83,373

97,176

80,949

44,821

37,037

77,530

4,810

425,696

Substandard non-accrual

97

723

19,779

20,599

Other (1)

9,080

17,001

8,491

1,924

1,103

8,879

473

46,951

Consumer

FICO less than 620

$

736

$

1,382

$

121

$

143

$

48

$

86

$

333

$

2,849

FICO between 620 and 720

3,879

3,044

663

718

141

94

2,166

10,705

FICO greater than 720

5,334

2,729

3,235

349

87

44

4,511

16,289

Substandard non-accrual

31

22

53

Other (1)

4,582

1,686

271

51

37

197

6,824

Total loans with credit quality measures

$

1,435,796

$

1,182,472

$

913,020

$

546,283

$

532,927

$

586,958

$

692,581

$

5,890,037

Commercial and industrial (mortgage warehouse lending)

$

882,503

Commercial and industrial (Paycheck Protection Program loans)

$

670,725

Broker-Dealer (margin loans and correspondent receivables)

$

502,295

Total loans held for investment

$

7,945,560

(1)    Loans classified in this category were assigned a FICO score based on various factors specific to the borrower for credit modeling purposes.

31

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans Held for Investment

The allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment represents management’s best estimate of all expected credit losses over the expected contractual life of our existing portfolio. Management revised its methodology for determining the allowance for credit losses upon the implementation of CECL. Management considers the level of allowance for credit losses to be a reasonable and supportable estimate of expected credit losses inherent within the loans held for investment portfolio as of September 30, 2020. While the Company believes it has an appropriate allowance for the existing loan portfolio at September 30, 2020, additional provision for losses on existing loans may be necessary in the future. Future changes in the allowance for credit losses are expected to be volatile given dependence upon, among other things, the portfolio composition and quality, as well as the impact of significant drivers, including prepayment assumptions and macroeconomic conditions and forecasts. In addition to the allowance for credit losses, the Company maintains a separate allowance for credit losses related to off-balance sheet credit exposures, including unfunded loan commitments, and this amount is included in other liabilities within the consolidated balance sheets (see Note 14 to the consolidated financial statements). For further information on the policies that govern the estimation of the allowances for credit losses levels, see Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements.

One of the most significant judgments involved in estimating the Company’s allowance for credit losses relates to the macroeconomic forecasts used to estimate credit losses over the reasonable and supportable forecast period. To determine our best estimate of expected credit losses as of September 30, 2020, the Company utilized a single macroeconomic baseline scenario published by a third party in September 2020 that was updated to reflect the U.S. economic outlook due to COVID-19 conditions. This baseline scenario utilizes multiple economic variables in forecasting the economic outlook. Significant variables that impact the modeled losses across our loan portfolios are the U.S. Real Gross Domestic Product, or GDP, growth rates and unemployment rate assumptions. Changes in these assumptions and forecasts of economic conditions could significantly affect the estimate of expected credit losses at the balance sheet date or between reporting periods.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a weak labor market and weak overall economic conditions that will affect borrowers across our lending portfolios and significant judgment is required to estimate the severity and duration of the current economic downturn, as well as its potential impact on borrower defaults and loss severity. In particular, macroeconomic conditions and forecasts regarding the duration and severity of the economic downturn are rapidly changing and remain highly uncertain as the resurgence of COVID-19 cases evolves nationally and in key geographies. It is difficult to predict exactly how borrower behavior will be impacted by these economic conditions as the effectiveness of government stimulus, customer relief and enhanced unemployment benefits should help mitigate in the short term, but the extent and duration of government stimulus as well as performance of recently implemented payment deferral programs remains uncertain.

The increase in the allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was primarily attributable to changes within the Bank. During the first quarter of 2020, the Company adopted the new CECL standard and recorded transition adjustment entries that resulted in an allowance for credit losses of $73.7 million as of January 1, 2020, an increase of $12.6 million. This increase included an increase in credit losses of $18.9 million from the expansion of the loss horizon to life of loan, partially offset by the elimination of the non-credit component within the historical allowance related to previously categorized PCI loans of $6.3 million.

During the three months ended September 30, 2020, the allowance included a net reversal of credit losses on individually evaluated loans of $1.2 million, while the provision for credit losses on expected losses of collectively evaluated loans accounted for $0.6 million of the total provision primarily due to the identified changes in the Bank’s loan portfolio composition and credit quality being offset by improvements in macroeconomic factor assumptions and qualitative factors from the prior quarter. The change in the allowance during the three months ended September 30, 2020 was also impacted by net charge-offs of $0.6 million. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the significant build in the allowance included provision for credit losses on individually evaluated loans of $22.6 million, while the provision for credit losses on expected losses of collectively evaluated loans accounted for $77.2 million of the total provision primarily due to the increase in the expected lifetime credit losses under CECL attributable to the deteriorating economic outlook associated with the impact of the market disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The changes in the allowance for credit losses during the noted periods were also attributable to other factors including, but not limited to, loan growth and loan mix. The change in the allowance during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was also impacted by net charge-offs of $18.5 million, primarily associated with loans specifically reserved for during the first quarter of 2020.

Changes in the allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment, distributed by portfolio segment, are shown below (in thousands).

    

Balance,

    

Transition

    

Provision for

    

    

Recoveries on

   

Balance,

Beginning of

Adjustment

(Reversal of)

Loans

Charged Off

End of

Three Months Ended September 30, 2020

Period

CECL

Credit Losses

Charged Off

Loans

Period

Commercial real estate

$

106,551

$

$

(2,527)

$

(29)

$

571

$

104,566

Commercial and industrial

 

31,863

 

 

7,274

 

(1,341)

 

382

 

38,178

Construction and land development

 

8,393

 

 

(2,123)

 

 

 

6,270

1-4 family residential

 

7,399

 

 

(2,213)

 

(144)

 

10

 

5,052

Consumer

1,429

(411)

(100)

84

1,002

Broker-dealer

748

(602)

146

Total

$

156,383

$

$

(602)

$

(1,614)

$

1,047

$

155,214

   

Balance,

   

Transition

   

Provision for

   

   

Recoveries on

   

Balance,

   

Beginning of

Adjustment

(Reversal of)

Loans

Charged Off

End of

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020

Period

CECL

Credit Losses

Charged Off

Loans

Period

Commercial real estate

$

31,595

$

8,073

$

68,823

$

(4,517)

$

592

$

104,566

Commercial and industrial

 

17,964

 

3,193

 

30,896

 

(15,325)

 

1,450

 

38,178

Construction and land development

 

4,878

 

577

 

815

 

(2)

 

2

 

6,270

1-4 family residential

 

6,386

 

(29)

 

(813)

 

(517)

 

25

 

5,052

Consumer

265

748

154

(473)

308

1,002

Broker-dealer

48

98

146

Total

$

61,136

$

12,562

$

99,973

$

(20,834)

$

2,377

$

155,214

    

Balance,

    

Transition

    

Provision for

    

    

Recoveries on

    

Balance,

    

Beginning of

Adjustment

(Reversal of)

Loans

Charged Off

End of

Three Months Ended September 30, 2019

Period

CECL

Credit Losses

Charged Off

Loans

Period

Commercial real estate

$

25,114

$

$

757

$

(9)

$

$

25,862

Commercial and industrial

 

20,414

 

 

(1,625)

 

(1,000)

 

1,393

 

19,182

Construction and land development

 

4,396

 

 

392

 

 

 

4,788

1-4 family residential

 

4,924

 

 

485

 

(12)

 

14

 

5,411

Consumer

283

(9)

(12)

6

268

Broker-dealer

46

47

93

Total

$

55,177

$

$

47

$

(1,033)

$

1,413

$

55,604

    

Balance,

    

Transition

    

Provision for

    

    

Recoveries on

    

Balance,

    

Beginning of

Adjustment

(Reversal of)

Loans

Charged Off

End of

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019

Period

CECL

Credit Losses

Charged Off

Loans

Period

Commercial real estate

$

27,100

$

$

(1,229)

$

(9)

$

$

25,862

Commercial and industrial

 

21,980

 

 

87

 

(5,247)

 

2,362

 

19,182

Construction and land development

 

6,061

 

 

(1,273)

 

 

 

4,788

1-4 family residential

 

3,956

 

 

2,321

 

(911)

 

45

 

5,411

Consumer

267

449

(476)

28

268

Broker-dealer

122

(29)

93

Total

$

59,486

$

$

326

$

(6,643)

$

2,435

$

55,604

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

7. Mortgage Servicing Rights

The following tables present the changes in fair value of the Company’s MSR asset and other information related to the serviced portfolio (dollars in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

2020

2019

 

2020

2019

 

Balance, beginning of period

$

81,264

$

53,695

$

55,504

$

66,102

Additions

 

59,351

 

4,166

 

123,266

 

8,574

Sales

 

 

 

(18,650)

 

Changes in fair value:

Due to changes in model inputs or assumptions (1)

 

(10,145)

 

(3,769)

 

(26,023)

 

(17,541)

Due to customer payoffs

 

(2,758)

 

(2,795)

 

(6,385)

 

(5,838)

Balance, end of period

$

127,712

$

51,297

$

127,712

$

51,297

September 30,

December 31,

2020

2019

Mortgage loans serviced for others (2)

$

13,650,523

$

4,948,441

MSR asset as a percentage of serviced mortgage loans

 

0.94

%  

 

1.12

%  

(1)Primarily represents normal customer payments, changes in discount rates and prepayment speed assumptions, which are primarily affected by changes in interest rates and the refinement of other MSR model assumptions.
(2)Represents unpaid principal balance of mortgage loans serviced for others.

The key assumptions used in measuring the fair value of the Company’s MSR asset were as follows.

    

September 30,

December 31,

2020

    

2019

Weighted average constant prepayment rate

 

12.97

%  

13.16

%

Weighted average discount rate

 

14.65

%  

11.14

%

Weighted average life (in years)

 

6.1

6.0

A sensitivity analysis of the fair value of the Company’s MSR asset to certain key assumptions is presented in the following table (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

    

2020

    

2019

Constant prepayment rate:

Impact of 10% adverse change

$

(4,859)

$

(3,072)

Impact of 20% adverse change

 

(9,487)

 

(5,943)

Discount rate:

Impact of 10% adverse change

 

(4,844)

 

(2,094)

Impact of 20% adverse change

 

(9,252)

 

(4,028)

This sensitivity analysis presents the effect of hypothetical changes in key assumptions on the fair value of the MSR asset. The effect of such hypothetical change in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in one key assumption to the change in the fair value of the MSR asset is not linear. In addition, in the analysis, the impact of an adverse change in one key assumption is calculated independent of any impact on other assumptions. In reality, changes in one assumption may change another assumption.

Contractually specified servicing fees, late fees and ancillary fees earned of $10.3 million and $6.3 million during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $21.3 million and $19.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, were included in net gains from sale of loans and other mortgage production income within the consolidated statements of operations.

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

8. Deposits

Deposits are summarized as follows (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

    

2020

    

2019

Noninterest-bearing demand

$

3,557,603

$

2,769,556

Interest-bearing:

Demand accounts

 

2,058,874

 

1,881,614

Brokered - demand

 

269,472

 

Money market

 

2,885,824

 

2,641,116

Brokered - money market

 

162,184

 

5,000

Savings

 

251,027

 

199,076

Time

 

1,505,225

 

1,505,375

Brokered - time

 

571,706

 

30,477

$

11,261,915

$

9,032,214

9. Short-term Borrowings

Short-term borrowings are summarized as follows (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

 

    

2020

    

2019

 

Federal funds purchased

$

149,150

$

81,625

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

 

261,703

 

612,125

Federal Home Loan Bank

 

 

600,000

Short-term bank loans

103,500

111,000

Commercial paper

 

265,756

 

19,260

$

780,109

$

1,424,010

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase generally mature daily, on demand, or on some other short-term basis. The Bank and the Hilltop Broker-Dealers execute transactions to sell securities under agreements to repurchase with both customers and other broker-dealers. Securities involved in these transactions are held by the Bank, the Hilltop Broker-Dealers or a third-party dealer.

Information concerning federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase is shown in the following tables (dollars in thousands).

    

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

 

Average balance during the period

$

547,925

$

609,162

Average interest rate during the period

 

1.03

%  

2.57

%

September 30,

December 31,

   

2020

    

2019

Average interest rate at end of period

 

0.30

%  

1.97

%

Securities underlying the agreements at end of period:

Carrying value

$

261,771

$

612,515

Estimated fair value

$

279,403

$

661,023

Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) short-term borrowings mature over terms not exceeding 365 days and are collateralized by FHLB Dallas stock, nonspecified real estate loans and certain specific commercial real estate loans.

35

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The FHLB borrowings were fully paid during the three months ended September 30, 2020. Other information regarding FHLB short-term borrowings is shown in the following tables (dollars in thousands).

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

Average balance during the period

$

51,606

$

280,824

Average interest rate during the period

1.62

%

2.34

%

September 30,

December 31,

2020

2019

Average interest rate at end of period

%

1.56

%

The Hilltop Broker-Dealers use short-term bank loans periodically to finance securities owned, margin loans to customers and correspondents and underwriting activities. Interest on the borrowings varies with the federal funds rate. The weighted average interest rate on the borrowings at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019 was 1.25% and 2.52%, respectively.

During the fourth quarter of 2019, Hilltop Securities initiated two commercial paper programs, in the ordinary course of its business, of which the net proceeds (after deducting related issuance expenses) from the sale will be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital and the funding of a portion of its securities inventories. The commercial paper notes (“CP Notes”) may be issued with maturities of 14 days to 270 days from the date of issuance. The CP Notes are issued under two separate programs, Series 2019-1 CP Notes and Series 2019-2 CP Notes, in maximum aggregate amounts of $300 million and $200 million, respectively. The CP Notes are not redeemable prior to maturity or subject to voluntary prepayment and do not bear interest, but are sold at a discount to par. The CP Notes are secured by a pledge of collateral owned by Hilltop Securities. As of September 30, 2020, the weighted average maturity of the CP Notes was 154 days at a rate of 1.65%. At September 30, 2020, the aggregate amount outstanding under these secured arrangements was $265.8 million, which was collateralized by securities held for firm accounts valued at $171.6 million.

10. Notes Payable

Notes payable consisted of the following (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

    

2020

    

2019

Senior Notes due April 2025, net of discount of $1,107 and $1,232, respectively

$

148,893

$

148,768

Subordinated Notes due May 2030, net of discount of $814

49,186

Subordinated Notes due May 2035, net of discount of $2,433

147,567

FHLB notes, including premium of $0 and $146, respectively

 

 

28,848

Ventures Management lines of credit due August 2021

50,360

78,653

$

396,006

$

256,269

Subordinated Notes

On May 7, 2020, Hilltop completed a public offering of $50 million aggregate principal amount of 5.75% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due May 15, 2030 (the “2030 Subordinated Notes”) and $150 million aggregate principal amount of 6.125% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due May 15, 2035 (the “2035 Subordinated Notes”) (collectively, the “Subordinated Notes”). The price for the Subordinated Notes was 100% of the principal amount of the Subordinated Notes. The net proceeds from the offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and fees and expenses of $3.4 million, were $196.6 million.

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The 2030 Subordinated Notes and the 2035 Subordinated Notes will mature on May 15, 2030 and May 15, 2035, respectively. Hilltop may redeem the Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, from time to time, subject to obtaining regulatory approval, beginning with the interest payment date of May 15, 2025 for the 2030 Subordinated Notes and beginning with the interest payment date of May 15, 2030 for the 2035 Subordinated Notes, in each case at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Subordinated Notes being redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to but excluding the date of redemption.

The 2030 Subordinated Notes bear interest at the rate of 5.75% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears commencing on November 15, 2020. The interest rate for the 2030 Subordinated Notes will reset quarterly beginning May 15, 2025 to an interest rate, per year, equal to the then-current benchmark rate, which is expected to be three-month term Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR rate”), plus 5.68%, payable quarterly in arrears. The 2035 Subordinated Notes bear interest at the rate of 6.125% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears commencing on November 15, 2020. The interest rate for the 2035 Subordinated Notes will reset quarterly beginning May 15, 2030 to an interest rate, per year, equal to the then-current benchmark rate, which is expected to be three-month term SOFR rate plus 5.80%, payable quarterly in arrears.

11. Leases

Supplemental balance sheet information related to finance leases is as follows (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

2020

2019

Finance leases:

Premises and equipment

$

7,780

$

7,780

Accumulated depreciation

(4,620)

(4,178)

Premises and equipment, net

$

3,160

$

3,602

The components of lease costs, including short-term lease costs, are as follows (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

2020

2019

Operating lease cost

$

11,067

$

11,123

$

32,318

$

32,253

Less operating lease and sublease income

(363)

(846)

(1,336)

(1,897)

Net operating lease cost

$

10,704

$

10,277

$

30,982

$

30,356

Finance lease cost:

Amortization of ROU assets

$

147

$

147

$

442

$

442

Interest on lease liabilities

139

148

424

450

Total finance lease cost

$

286

$

295

$

866

$

892

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases is as follows (in thousands).

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:

Operating cash flows from operating leases

$

27,994

$

29,047

Operating cash flows from finance leases

424

450

Financing cash flows from finance leases

472

438

Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations:

Operating leases

$

8,773

$

25,951

Finance leases

37

Table of Contents

Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

Information regarding the lease terms and discount rates of the Company’s leases is as follows.

September 30, 2020

December 31, 2019

Weighted Average

Weighted Average

Remaining Lease

Weighted Average

Remaining Lease

Weighted Average

Lease Classification

Term (Years)

Discount Rate

Term (Years)

Discount Rate

Operating

5.6

4.87

%

5.9

5.29

%

Finance

5.9

4.80

%

6.5

4.79

%

Future minimum lease payments under the Leasing Standard as of September 30, 2020, under lease agreements that had commenced as of or subsequent to January 1, 2019, are presented below (in thousands).

Operating Leases

Finance Leases

2020

$

4,450

$

301

2021

33,880

1,212

2022

27,373

1,241

2023

21,920

1,280

2024

14,765

1,163

Thereafter

39,110

2,297

Total minimum lease payments

$

141,498

$

7,494

Less amount representing interest

(19,096)

(2,471)

Lease liabilities

$

122,402

$

5,023

As of September 30, 2020, the Company had additional operating leases that have not yet commenced with aggregate future minimum lease payments of approximately $24.4 million. These operating leases are expected to commence between October 2020 and October 2021 with lease terms ranging from five to eleven years.

A related party is the lessor in an operating lease with Hilltop. Hilltop’s minimum payment under the lease is $0.5 million annually through 2028, for an aggregate remaining obligation of $4.2 million at September 30, 2020.

12. Income Taxes

The Company applies an estimated annual effective rate to interim period pre-tax income to calculate the income tax provision for the quarter in accordance with the principal method prescribed by the accounting guidance established for computing income taxes in interim periods. The Company’s effective tax rates from continuing operations were 22.7% and 21.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and 23.0% and 22.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The effective tax rates approximated statutory rates and include the effect of investments in tax-exempt instruments, offset by non-deductible expenses.

13. Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Matters

The Company is subject to loss contingencies related to litigation, claims, investigations and legal and administrative cases and proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. The Company evaluates these contingencies based on information currently available, including advice of counsel. The Company establishes accruals for those matters when a loss contingency is considered probable and the related amount is reasonably estimable. Any accruals are periodically reviewed and may be adjusted as circumstances change. A portion of the Company’s exposure with respect to loss contingencies may be offset by applicable insurance coverage. In determining the amounts of any accruals or estimates of possible loss contingencies, the Company does not take into account the availability of insurance coverage. When it is practicable, the Company estimates loss contingencies for possible litigation and claims, whether or not there is an accrued probable loss. When the Company is able to estimate such probable losses, and when it estimates that it is reasonably possible it could incur losses in excess of amounts accrued, the Company is required to make a disclosure of

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

the aggregate estimation. As available information changes, however, the matters for which the Company is able to estimate, as well as the estimates themselves, will be adjusted accordingly.

Assessments of litigation and claims exposures are difficult due to many factors that involve inherent unpredictability. Those factors include the following: the varying stages of the proceedings, particularly in the early stages; unspecified, unsupported, or uncertain damages; damages other than compensatory, such as punitive damages; a matter presenting meaningful legal uncertainties, including novel issues of law; multiple defendants and jurisdictions; whether discovery has begun or is complete; whether meaningful settlement discussions have commenced; and whether the claim involves a class action and if so, how the class is defined. As a result of some of these factors, the Company may be unable to estimate reasonably possible losses with respect to some or all of the pending and threatened litigation and claims asserted against the Company.

While the final outcome of litigation and claims exposures is inherently unpredictable, management is currently of the opinion that the outcome of pending and threatened litigation will not have a material effect on the Company’s business, consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows as a whole. However, in the event of unexpected future developments, it is reasonably possible that an adverse outcome in any matter could be material to the Company’s business, consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows for any particular reporting period of occurrence.

Indemnification Liability Reserve

The mortgage origination segment may be responsible to agencies, investors, or other parties for errors or omissions relating to its representations and warranties that each loan sold meets certain requirements, including representations as to underwriting standards and the validity of certain borrower representations in connection with the loan. If determined to be at fault, the mortgage origination segment either repurchases the affected loan from or indemnifies the claimant against loss. The mortgage origination segment has established an indemnification liability reserve for such probable losses.

Generally, the mortgage origination segment first becomes aware that an agency, investor, or other party believes a loss has been incurred on a sold loan when it receives a written request from the claimant to repurchase the loan or reimburse the claimant’s losses. Upon completing its review of the claimant’s request, the mortgage origination segment establishes a specific claims reserve for the loan if it concludes its obligation to the claimant is both probable and reasonably estimable.

An additional reserve has been established for probable agency, investor or other party losses that may have been incurred, but not yet reported to the mortgage origination segment based upon a reasonable estimate of such losses. Factors considered in the calculation of this reserve include, but are not limited to, the total volume of loans sold exclusive of specific claimant requests, actual claim settlements and the severity of estimated losses resulting from future claims, and the mortgage origination segment’s history of successfully curing defects identified in claim requests. In addition, the mortgage origination segment has considered that GNMA, FNMA and FHLMC have imposed certain restrictions on loans the agencies will accept under a forbearance agreement resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, which could increase the magnitude of indemnification losses on these loans.

While the mortgage origination segment’s sales contracts typically include borrower early payment default repurchase provisions, these provisions have not been a primary driver of claims to date, and therefore, are not a primary factor considered in the calculation of this reserve.

At September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the mortgage origination segment’s indemnification liability reserve totaled $18.0 million and $11.8 million, respectively. The provision for indemnification losses was $3.1 million and $1.0 million during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $7.7 million and $2.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

39

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The following tables provide for a rollforward of claims activity for loans put-back to the mortgage origination segment based upon an alleged breach of a representation or warranty with respect to a loan sold and related indemnification liability reserve activity (in thousands).

Representation and Warranty Specific Claims

 

Activity - Origination Loan Balance

 

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

    

2020

    

2019

2020

    

2019

 

Balance, beginning of period

$

35,194

$

33,074

$

32,144

$

33,784

Claims made

 

2,558

 

6,423

 

14,770

 

16,110

Claims resolved with no payment

 

(45)

 

(7,022)

 

(1,702)

 

(14,289)

Repurchases

 

(1,582)

 

(1,506)

 

(8,965)

 

(4,150)

Indemnification payments

 

-

 

(243)

 

(122)

 

(729)

Balance, end of period

$

36,125

$

30,726

$

36,125

$

30,726

Indemnification Liability Reserve Activity

    

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

2020

    

2019

    

2020

    

2019

 

Balance, beginning of period

$

15,463

$

10,833

$

11,776

$

10,701

Additions for new sales

 

3,066

 

954

 

6,688

 

2,236

Repurchases

 

(133)

 

(117)

 

(613)

 

(325)

Early payment defaults

 

(413)

 

(51)

 

(815)

 

(290)

Indemnification payments

 

-

 

(87)

 

(40)

 

(182)

Change in reserves for loans sold in prior years

 

-

 

(81)

 

987

 

(689)

Balance, end of period

$

17,983

$

11,451

$

17,983

$

11,451

September 30,

December 31,

    

2020

2019

  

 

Reserve for Indemnification Liability:

Specific claims

$

1,426

$

1,071

Incurred but not reported claims

 

16,557

 

10,705

Total

$

17,983

$

11,776

Although management considers the total indemnification liability reserve to be appropriate, there may be changes in the reserve over time to address incurred losses due to unanticipated adverse changes in the economy and historical loss patterns, discrete events adversely affecting specific borrowers or industries, and/or actions taken by institutions or investors. The impact of such matters is considered in the reserving process when probable and estimable.

14. Financial Instruments with Off-Balance Sheet Risk

Banking

The Bank is party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit that involve varying degrees of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated financial statements. Such financial instruments are recorded in the consolidated financial statements when they are funded or related fees are incurred or received. The contract amounts of those instruments reflect the extent of involvement (and therefore the exposure to credit loss) the Bank has in particular classes of financial instruments.

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer provided that the terms established in the contract are met. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates and may require payment of fees. Because some commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued to guarantee the

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

performance of a customer to a third party. These letters of credit are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan commitments to customers.

In the aggregate, the Bank had outstanding unused commitments to extend credit of $1.9 billion at September 30, 2020 and outstanding financial and performance standby letters of credit of $90.1 million at September 30, 2020.

In order to estimate the allowance for credit loss on unfunded loan commitments, the Bank uses a process similar to that used in estimating the allowance for credit losses on the funded portion. The allowance is based on the estimated exposure at default, multiplied by the lifetime PD grade and LGD grade for that particular loan segment. The Bank estimates expected losses by calculating a commitment usage factor based on industry usage factors. The commitment usage factor is applied over the relevant contractual period. Loss factors from the underlying loans to which commitments are related are applied to the results of the usage calculation to estimate any liability for credit losses related for each loan type. The expected losses on unfunded commitments align with statistically calculated parameters used to calculate the allowance for credit losses on the funded portion. There is no reserve calculated for letters of credit as they are issued primarily as credit enhancements and the likelihood of funding is low.

Changes in the allowance for credit losses for loans with off-balance sheet credit exposures are shown below (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

    

2020

    

2019

2020

    

2019

Balance, beginning of period

$

9,031

$

2,263

$

2,075

$

2,366

Transition adjustment CECL accounting standard

3,837

Other noninterest expense

287

(77)

3,406

(180)

Balance, end of period

$

9,318

$

2,186

$

9,318

$

2,186

As previously discussed, the Company adopted the new CECL standard and recorded a transition adjustment entry that resulted in an allowance for credit losses of $5.9 million as of January 1, 2020. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, the increases in the reserve for unfunded commitments were primarily due to the macroeconomic uncertainties associated with the impact of the market disruption caused by COVID-19 conditions.

The Bank uses the same credit policies in making commitments and standby letters of credit as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary, in these transactions is based on management’s credit evaluation of the borrower. Collateral held varies but may include real estate, accounts receivable, marketable securities, interest-bearing deposit accounts, inventory, and property, plant and equipment.

Broker-Dealer

In the normal course of business, the Hilltop Broker-Dealers execute, settle, and finance various securities transactions that may expose the Hilltop Broker-Dealers to off-balance sheet risk in the event that a customer or counterparty does not fulfill its contractual obligations. Examples of such transactions include the sale of securities not yet purchased by customers or for the accounts of the Hilltop Broker-Dealers, use of derivatives to support certain non-profit housing organization clients and to hedge changes in the fair value of certain securities, clearing agreements between the Hilltop Broker-Dealers and various clearinghouses and broker-dealers, secured financing arrangements that involve pledged securities, and when-issued underwriting and purchase commitments.

15. Stock-Based Compensation

Since 2012, the Company has issued stock-based incentive awards pursuant to the Hilltop Holdings Inc. 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”). In July 2020, pursuant to stockholders’ approval, the Company adopted the Hilltop Holdings Inc. 2020 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2020 Plan”). The 2020 Plan serves as successor to the 2012 Plan. The 2012 Plan and the 2020 Plan are referred to collectively as “the Equity Plans.” The Equity Plans provide for the grant of nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance awards, dividend equivalent rights and other awards to employees of the Company, its subsidiaries and outside directors

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

of the Company. Shares available for grant under the 2012 Plan that were reserved but not issued as of the effective date of the 2020 Plan were added to the reserves of the 2020 Plan. No additional awards may be made under the 2012 Plan following the effective date of the 2020 Plan, but the 2012 Plan remains in effect as to outstanding awards. Outstanding awards under the Equity Plans continue to be subject to the terms and conditions of the respective plans. The number of shares authorized for issuance pursuant to awards under the 2020 Plan is 3,650,000 plus any shares that become available upon the forfeiture, expiration, cancellation or settlement in cash of awards outstanding under the 2012 Plan as of April 30, 2020. At September 30, 2020, 3,514,437 shares of common stock remained available for issuance pursuant to awards granted under the 2020 Plan, excluding shares that may be delivered pursuant to outstanding awards. Compensation expense related to the Equity Plans was $3.9 million and $3.1 million during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $11.0 million and $8.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, Hilltop granted 25,817 and 20,806 shares of common stock, respectively, pursuant to the Equity Plans to certain non-employee members of the Company’s board of directors for services rendered to the Company.

Restricted Stock Units

The following table summarizes information about nonvested RSU activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 (shares in thousands).

RSUs

Weighted

Average

Grant Date

    

    

Outstanding

    

Fair Value

Balance, December 31, 2019

1,437

$

22.64

Granted

690

$

21.66

Vested/Released

(350)

$

26.83

Forfeited

(24)

$

22.48

Balance, September 30, 2020

1,753

$

21.42

Vested/Released RSUs include an aggregate of 57,873 shares withheld to satisfy employee statutory tax obligations during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. Pursuant to certain RSU award agreements, an aggregate of 5,482 vested RSUs at September 30, 2020 require deferral of the settlement in shares and statutory tax obligations to a future date.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Compensation Committee of the board of directors of the Company awarded certain executives and key employees an aggregate of 675,805 RSUs pursuant to the Equity Plans. Of the RSUs granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, 550,673 that were outstanding at September 30, 2020, are subject to time-based vesting conditions and generally cliff vest on the third anniversary of the grant date. Of the RSUs granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, 122,232 that were outstanding at September 30, 2020, provide for cliff vesting based upon the achievement of certain performance goals over a three-year period.

At September 30, 2020, in the aggregate, 1,463,271 of the outstanding RSUs are subject to time-based vesting conditions and generally cliff vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, and 289,493 outstanding RSUs cliff vest based upon the achievement of certain performance goals over a three-year period. At September 30, 2020, unrecognized compensation expense related to outstanding RSUs of $21.7 million is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.68 years.  

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

In July 2020, pursuant to stockholders’ approval, the Company adopted the Hilltop Holdings Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”) to provide a means for eligible employees of the Company to purchase shares of Hilltop

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

common stock at a discounted price by accumulating funds, normally through payroll deductions and is intended to qualify under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code. The initial offering period will commence January 1, 2021.

16. Regulatory Matters

Banking and Hilltop

PlainsCapital, which includes the Bank and PrimeLending, and Hilltop are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory — and possibly additional discretionary — actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct, material effect on the consolidated financial statements. The regulations require PlainsCapital and Hilltop to meet specific capital adequacy guidelines that involve quantitative measures of assets, liabilities and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Company performs reviews of the classification and calculation of risk-weighted assets to ensure accuracy and compliance with the Basel III regulatory capital requirements as implemented by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. The capital classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors. Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the companies to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the following table) of Tier 1 capital (as defined in the regulations) to total average assets (as defined), and minimum ratios of common equity Tier 1, Tier 1 and total capital (as defined) to risk-weighted assets (as defined).

In order to avoid limitations on capital distributions, including dividend payments, stock repurchases and certain discretionary bonus payments to executive officers, Basel III requires banking organizations to maintain a capital conservation buffer above minimum risk-based capital requirements measured relative to risk-weighted assets.

The following tables show PlainsCapital’s and Hilltop’s actual capital amounts and ratios in accordance with Basel III compared to the regulatory minimum capital requirements including conservation buffer ratio in effect at the end of the period (dollars in thousands). Based on actual capital amounts and ratios shown in the following table, PlainsCapital’s ratios place it in the “well capitalized” (as defined) capital category under regulatory requirements. Actual capital amounts and ratios as of September 30, 2020 reflect PlainsCapital’s and Hilltop’s decision to elect the transition option as issued by the federal banking regulatory agencies in March 2020 that permits banking institutions to mitigate the estimated cumulative regulatory capital effects from CECL over a five-year transitionary period.

Minimum Capital

 

Requirements

Including

To Be Well

 

Actual

Conservation Buffer

Capitalized

 

    

Amount

    

Ratio

    

Ratio

    

Ratio

 

September 30, 2020

Tier 1 capital (to average assets):

PlainsCapital

$

1,382,293

 

10.19

%  

4.0

%  

5.0

%

Hilltop

 

2,193,424

 

13.03

%  

4.0

%  

N/A

Common equity Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets):

PlainsCapital

1,382,293

 

14.64

%  

7.0

%  

6.5

%

Hilltop

2,128,424

 

19.85

%  

7.0

%  

N/A

Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets):

PlainsCapital

 

1,382,293

 

14.64

%  

8.5

%  

8.0

%

Hilltop

 

2,193,424

 

20.46

%  

8.5

%  

N/A

Total capital (to risk-weighted assets):

PlainsCapital

 

1,462,750

 

15.49

%  

10.5

%  

10.0

%

Hilltop

 

2,488,900

 

23.22

%  

10.5

%  

N/A

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

Minimum Capital

 

Requirements

Including

To Be Well

 

Actual

Conservation Buffer

Capitalized

 

    

Amount

    

Ratio

    

Ratio

    

Ratio

 

December 31, 2019

Tier 1 capital (to average assets):

PlainsCapital

$

1,236,289

 

11.61

%  

4.0

%  

5.0

%

Hilltop

 

1,822,970

 

12.71

%  

4.0

%  

N/A

Common equity Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets):

PlainsCapital

1,236,289

 

13.45

%  

7.0

%  

6.5

%

Hilltop

1,776,381

 

16.70

%  

7.0

%  

N/A

Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets):

PlainsCapital

 

1,236,289

 

13.45

%  

8.5

%  

8.0

%

Hilltop

 

1,822,970

 

17.13

%  

8.5

%  

N/A

Total capital (to risk-weighted assets):

PlainsCapital

 

1,299,453

 

14.13

%  

10.5

%  

10.0

%

Hilltop

 

1,867,771

 

17.55

%  

10.5

%  

N/A

Broker-Dealer

Pursuant to the net capital requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), Hilltop Securities has elected to determine its net capital requirements using the alternative method. Accordingly, Hilltop Securities is required to maintain minimum net capital, as defined in Rule 15c3-1 promulgated under the Exchange Act, equal to the greater of $250,000 and $1,000,000, respectively, or 2% of aggregate debit balances, as defined in Rule 15c3-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act. Additionally, the net capital rule of the NYSE provides that equity capital may not be withdrawn or cash dividends paid if resulting net capital would be less than 5% of the aggregate debit items. HTS Independent Network follows the primary (aggregate indebtedness) method, as defined in Rule 15c3-1 promulgated under the Exchange Act, which requires the maintenance of the larger of $250,000 or 6-2/3% of aggregate indebtedness.

At September 30, 2020, the net capital position of each of the Hilltop Broker-Dealers was as follows (in thousands).

HTS

Hilltop

Independent

    

Securities

    

Network

 

Net capital

$

310,559

$

3,366

Less: required net capital

7,427

250

Excess net capital

$

303,132

$

3,116

Net capital as a percentage of aggregate debit items

83.6

%

Net capital in excess of 5% aggregate debit items

$

291,991

Under certain conditions, Hilltop Securities may be required to segregate cash and securities in a special reserve account for the benefit of customers under Rule 15c3-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act. Assets segregated under the provisions of the Exchange Act are not available for general corporate purposes. At September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Hilltop Broker-Dealers held cash of $221.6 million and $157.4 million, respectively, segregated in special reserve bank accounts for the benefit of customers. The Hilltop Broker-Dealers were not required to segregate cash and securities in special reserve accounts for the benefit of proprietary accounts of introducing broker-dealers at September 30, 2020 or December 31, 2019.

Mortgage Origination

As a mortgage originator, PrimeLending and its subsidiaries are subject to minimum net worth and liquidity requirements established by HUD and GNMA, as applicable. On an annual basis, PrimeLending and its subsidiaries submit audited financial statements to HUD and GNMA, as applicable, documenting their respective compliance with

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(Unaudited)

minimum net worth and liquidity requirements. As of September 30, 2020, PrimeLending and its subsidiaries’ net worth and liquidity exceeded the amounts required by both HUD and GNMA, as applicable, with one exception. The net worth of an ABA that was divested by PrimeLending on October 1, 2020, did not meet the HUD net worth requirements as of September 30, 2020. This instance and the divestiture have been reported to HUD.

17. Stockholders’ Equity

Dividends

During the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, the Company declared and paid cash dividends of $0.27 and $0.24 per common share, or an aggregate of $24.4 million and $22.4 million, respectively.

On October 22, 2020, Hilltop’s board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.09 per common share, payable on November 30, 2020, to all common stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 16, 2020.

Stock Repurchases

In January 2020, the Hilltop board of directors authorized a new stock repurchase program through January 2021, pursuant to which the Company is authorized to repurchase, in the aggregate, up to $75.0 million of its outstanding common stock, inclusive of repurchases to offset dilution related to grants of stock-based compensation.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Company paid $15.2 million to repurchase an aggregate of 720,901 shares of common stock at an average price of $21.13 per share. The Company’s stock repurchase program, prior year repurchases and related accounting policy are discussed in detail in Note 1 and Note 23 to the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s 2019 Form 10-K.

As previously announced on April 30, 2020, in light of the uncertain outlook for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hilltop’s board of directors suspended its stock repurchase program. Hilltop’s board of directors has the ability to reinstate the stock repurchase program at its discretion as circumstances warrant.

Tender Offer

On September 23, 2020, the Company announced the commencement of a modified “Dutch auction” tender offer to purchase shares of its common stock for an aggregate cash purchase price of up to $350 million and at a per share price not less than $18.25 and not more than $21.00, net to the seller in cash, less any applicable tax withholding and without interest, upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in the tender offer documentation. Unless the offer is extended or terminated, the tender offer is scheduled to expire at the end of the day on October 30, 2020. The Federal Reserve has informed the Company that it is has no objection to the tender offer.

18. Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company uses various derivative financial instruments to mitigate interest rate risk. The Bank’s interest rate risk management strategy involves effectively managing the re-pricing characteristics of certain assets and liabilities to mitigate potential adverse impacts from changes in interest rates on the Bank’s net interest margin. PrimeLending has interest rate risk relative to interest rate lock commitments (“IRLCs”) and its inventory of mortgage loans held for sale. PrimeLending is exposed to such interest rate risk from the time an IRLC is made to an applicant to the time the related mortgage loan is sold. To mitigate interest rate risk, PrimeLending executes forward commitments to sell mortgage-backed securities (“MBSs”) and Eurodollar futures. Additionally, PrimeLending has interest rate risk relative to its MSR asset and uses derivative instruments, including interest rate swaps and U.S. Treasury bond futures and options to hedge this risk. The Hilltop Broker-Dealers use forward commitments to both purchase and sell MBSs to facilitate customer transactions and as a means to hedge related exposure to interest rate risk in certain inventory positions. Additionally, Hilltop Securities uses U.S. Treasury bond, Eurodollar futures and municipal market data, or MMD, rate locks to hedge changes in the fair value of its securities.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

Non-Hedging Derivative Instruments and the Fair Value Option

As discussed in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has elected to measure substantially all mortgage loans held for sale at fair value under the provisions of the Fair Value Option. The election provides the opportunity to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently without applying hedge accounting provisions. The fair values of PrimeLending’s IRLCs and forward commitments are recorded in other assets or other liabilities, as appropriate, and changes in the fair values of these derivative instruments are recorded as a component of net gains from sale of loans and other mortgage production income. These changes in fair value are attributable to changes in the volume of IRLCs, mortgage loans held for sale, commitments to purchase and sell MBSs and MSR assets, and changes in market interest rates. Changes in market interest rates also conversely affect the value of PrimeLending’s mortgage loans held for sale and its MSR asset, which are measured at fair value under the Fair Value Option. The effect of the change in market interest rates on PrimeLending’s loans held for sale and MSR asset is discussed in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements. The fair values of the Hilltop Broker-Dealers’ and the Bank’s derivative instruments are recorded in other assets or other liabilities, as appropriate. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are presented in the following table (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

   

2019

 

2020

   

2019

Increase (decrease) in fair value of derivatives during period:

PrimeLending

$

23,286

$

5,881

$

90,429

$

23,285

Hilltop Broker-Dealers

(3,542)

(5,984)

8,466

4,790

Bank

118

(25)

(17)

(171)

Derivative positions are presented in the following table (in thousands).

September 30, 2020

December 31, 2019

    

Notional

    

Estimated

    

Notional

    

Estimated

Amount

Fair Value

Amount

Fair Value

Derivative instruments (not designated as hedges):

IRLCs

$

3,513,711

$

115,699

$

914,526

$

18,222

Customer-based written options

 

 

 

31,200

 

Customer-based purchased options

 

 

 

31,200

 

Commitments to purchase MBSs

 

2,645,029

 

9,238

 

3,346,946

 

3,321

Commitments to sell MBSs

7,470,095

 

(8,277)

 

5,988,198

 

(5,904)

Interest rate swaps

51,122

 

(70)

 

15,012

 

(178)

U.S. Treasury bond futures and options (1)

160,400

 

 

283,500

 

Eurodollar futures (1)

12,000

 

 

934,000

 

Derivative instruments (designated as hedges):

Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges

$

105,000

$

(3,689)

$

50,000

$

528

(1)    Changes in the fair value of these contracts are settled daily with the respective counterparties of PrimeLending and the Hilltop Broker-Dealers.

The increase in the estimated fair value of the IRLCs at September 30, 2020, compared to December 31, 2019, was driven by the accelerated decrease in mortgage interest rates during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 triggered by the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and an increase in the average value of individual IRLCs. The increase in average value of individual IRLCs was primarily driven by PrimeLending managing increased loan origination volumes to a level that could be supported by its loan fulfillment operations and addressing anticipated enhanced credit and liquidity risks triggered by the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

PrimeLending had cash collateral advances totaling $15.5 million and $4.5 million to offset net liability derivative positions on its commitments to sell MBSs at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. In addition, PrimeLending and the Hilltop Broker-Dealers advanced cash collateral totaling $1.9 million and $3.7 million on U.S. Treasury bond futures and options and Eurodollar futures at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. These amounts are included in other assets within the consolidated balance sheets.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

19. Balance Sheet Offsetting

Certain financial instruments, including resale and repurchase agreements, securities lending arrangements and derivatives, may be eligible for offset in the consolidated balance sheets and/or subject to master netting arrangements or similar agreements. The following tables present the assets and liabilities subject to enforceable master netting arrangements, repurchase agreements, or similar agreements with offsetting rights (in thousands).

Gross Amounts Not Offset in

Net Amounts

the Balance Sheet

    

Gross Amounts

    

Gross Amounts

    

of Assets

    

    

    

Cash

    

    

of Recognized

Offset in the

Presented in the

Financial

Collateral

Net

Assets

Balance Sheet

Balance Sheet

Instruments

Pledged

Amount

September 30, 2020

Securities borrowed:

Institutional counterparties

$

1,285,509

$

$

1,285,509

$

(1,235,409)

$

$

50,100

Interest rate swaps:

Institutional counterparties

13

13

(13)

Reverse repurchase agreements:

Institutional counterparties

90,103

90,103

(89,111)

992

Forward MBS derivatives:

Institutional counterparties

 

11,848

 

 

11,848

 

(11,848)

 

 

$

1,387,473

$

$

1,387,473

$

(1,336,381)

$

$

51,092

December 31, 2019

Securities borrowed:

Institutional counterparties

$

1,634,782

$

$

1,634,782

$

(1,586,820)

$

$

47,962

Reverse repurchase agreements:

Institutional counterparties

59,031

59,031

(58,619)

412

Forward MBS derivatives:

Institutional counterparties

3,640

3,640

(3,640)

$

1,697,453

$

$

1,697,453

$

(1,649,079)

$

$

48,374

Gross Amounts Not Offset in

Net Amounts

the Balance Sheet 

    

Gross Amounts

    

Gross Amounts

    

of Liabilities

    

    

    

Cash

    

    

of Recognized

Offset in the

Presented in the

Financial

Collateral

Net

Liabilities

Balance Sheet

Balance Sheet

Instruments

Pledged

Amount

September 30, 2020

Securities loaned:

Institutional counterparties

$

1,177,098

$

$

1,177,098

$

(1,129,147)

$

$

47,951

Interest rate swaps:

Institutional counterparties

 

83

 

 

83

 

 

 

83

Repurchase agreements:

Institutional counterparties

 

261,703

 

 

261,703

 

(261,703)

 

 

Forward MBS derivatives:

Institutional counterparties

 

12,601

 

(1,714)

 

10,887

 

 

 

10,887

$

1,451,485

$

(1,714)

$

1,449,771

$

(1,390,850)

$

$

58,921

December 31, 2019

Securities loaned:

Institutional counterparties

$

1,555,964

$

$

1,555,964

$

(1,509,933)

$

$

46,031

Interest rate swaps:

Institutional counterparties

178

 

 

178

 

(112)

 

 

66

Repurchase agreements:

Institutional counterparties

 

586,651

 

 

586,651

 

(586,651)

 

 

Customer counterparties

25,474

 

 

25,474

 

(25,474)

 

 

Forward MBS derivatives:

Institutional counterparties

 

6,890

 

(667)

 

6,223

 

(2,384)

 

 

3,839

$

2,175,157

$

(667)

$

2,174,490

$

(2,124,554)

$

$

49,936

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

Secured Borrowing Arrangements

Secured Borrowings (Repurchase Agreements) — The Company participates in transactions involving securities sold under repurchase agreements, which are secured borrowings and generally mature one to thirty days from the transaction date or involve arrangements with no definite termination date. Securities sold under repurchase agreements are reflected at the amount of cash received in connection with the transactions. The Company may be required to provide additional collateral based on the fair value of the underlying securities, which is monitored on a daily basis.

Securities Lending Activities — The Company’s securities lending activities include lending securities for other broker-dealers, lending institutions and its own clearing and retail operations. These activities involve lending securities to other broker-dealers to cover short sales, to complete transactions in which there has been a failure to deliver securities by the required settlement date and as a conduit for financing activities.

When lending securities, the Company receives cash or similar collateral and generally pays interest (based on the amount of cash deposited) to the other party to the transaction. Securities lending transactions are executed pursuant to written agreements with counterparties that generally require securities loaned to be marked-to-market on a daily basis. The Company receives collateral in the form of cash in an amount generally in excess of the fair value of securities loaned. The Company monitors the fair value of securities loaned on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained or refunded, as necessary. Collateral adjustments are made on a daily basis through the facilities of various clearinghouses. The Company is a principal in these securities lending transactions and is liable for losses in the event of a failure of any other party to honor its contractual obligation. Management sets credit limits with each counterparty and reviews these limits regularly to monitor the risk level with each counterparty. The Company is subject to credit risk through its securities lending activities if securities prices decline rapidly because the value of the Company’s collateral could fall below the amount of the indebtedness it secures. In rapidly appreciating markets, credit risk increases due to short positions. The Company’s securities lending business subjects the Company to credit risk if a counterparty fails to perform or if collateral securing its obligations is insufficient. In securities transactions, the Company is subject to credit risk during the period between the execution of a trade and the settlement by the customer.

The following tables present the remaining contractual maturities of repurchase agreement and securities lending transactions accounted for as secured borrowings (in thousands). The Company had no repurchase-to-maturity transactions outstanding at both September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019.

Remaining Contractual Maturities

Overnight and

Greater Than

September 30, 2020

Continuous

Up to 30 Days

30-90 Days

90 Days

Total

Repurchase agreement transactions:

Asset-backed securities

$

157,890

$

96,720

$

7,093

$

$

261,703

Securities lending transactions:

Corporate securities

113

113

Equity securities

1,176,985

1,176,985

Total

$

1,334,988

$

96,720

$

7,093

$

$

1,438,801

Gross amount of recognized liabilities for repurchase agreement and securities lending transactions in offsetting disclosure above

$

1,438,801

Amount related to agreements not included in offsetting disclosure above

$

Remaining Contractual Maturities

Overnight and

Greater Than

December 31, 2019

Continuous

Up to 30 Days

30-90 Days

90 Days

Total

Repurchase agreement transactions:

U.S. Treasury and agency securities

$

45,950

$

$

$

$

45,950

Asset-backed securities

257,396

12,892

295,887

566,175

Securities lending transactions:

Corporate securities

120

120

Equity securities

1,555,844

1,555,844

Total

$

1,859,310

$

12,892

$

295,887

$

$

2,168,089

Gross amount of recognized liabilities for repurchase agreement and securities lending transactions in offsetting disclosure above

$

2,168,089

Amount related to agreements not included in offsetting disclosure above

$

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

20. Broker-Dealer and Clearing Organization Receivables and Payables

Broker-dealer and clearing organization receivables and payables consisted of the following (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

 

    

2020

    

2019

 

Receivables:

Securities borrowed

$

1,285,509

$

1,634,782

Securities failed to deliver

 

74,650

 

18,726

Trades in process of settlement

 

 

104,922

Other

 

3,319

 

21,850

$

1,363,478

$

1,780,280

Payables:

Securities loaned

$

1,177,098

$

1,555,964

Correspondents

 

36,928

 

37,036

Securities failed to receive

 

68,365

 

8,568

Trades in process of settlement

 

23,628

 

Other

 

4,816

 

3,950

$

1,310,835

$

1,605,518

21. Segment and Related Information

The Company currently has three reportable business segments that are organized primarily by the core products offered to the segments’ respective customers. These segments reflect the manner in which operations are managed and the criteria used by the chief operating decision maker, the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, to evaluate segment performance, develop strategy and allocate resources.

The banking segment includes the operations of the Bank. The broker-dealer segment includes the operations of Securities Holdings and the mortgage origination segment is composed of PrimeLending.

As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, during the first quarter of 2020, management had determined that the insurance segment met the criteria to be presented as discontinued operations. On June 30, 2020, Hilltop completed the sale of NLC. Accordingly, insurance segment results and its assets and liabilities have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements and in the tables below.

Corporate includes certain activities not allocated to specific business segments. These activities include holding company financing and investing activities, merchant banking investment opportunities and management and administrative services to support the overall operations of the Company.

Balance sheet amounts not discussed previously and the elimination of intercompany transactions are included in “All Other and Eliminations.” The following tables present certain information about reportable business segment revenues, operating results, goodwill and assets (in thousands).

    

    

    

Mortgage

    

    

    

    

All Other and

    

Hilltop

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2020

Banking

Broker-Dealer

Origination

Insurance

Corporate

Eliminations

Consolidated

 

Net interest income (expense)

$

96,416

$

8,168

$

(2,349)

$

$

(4,594)

$

4,259

$

101,900

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses

 

(602)

 

(602)

Noninterest income

 

9,819

141,022

355,471

477

(4,078)

 

502,711

Noninterest expense

 

55,980

 

114,393

 

207,176

21,999

(203)

 

399,345

Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes

50,255

35,399

145,946

(26,116)

384

205,868

Income from discontinued operations before taxes

736

736

$

50,255

$

35,399

$

145,946

$

$

(25,380)

$

384

$

206,604

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

    

    

Mortgage

    

    

    

    

All Other and

    

Hilltop

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020

Banking

Broker-Dealer

Origination

Insurance

Corporate

Eliminations

Consolidated

Net interest income (expense)

$

284,440

$

31,005

$

(3,647)

$

$

(9,482)

$

14,478

$

316,794

Provision for credit losses

 

99,875

98

 

99,973

Noninterest income

 

29,246

350,192

874,926

3,315

(15,130)

 

1,242,549

Noninterest expense

 

169,569

 

299,743

 

547,222

35,741

(820)

 

1,051,455

Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes

44,242

81,356

324,057

(41,908)

168

407,915

Income from discontinued operations before taxes

2,103

33,077

35,180

$

44,242

$

81,356

$

324,057

$

2,103

$

(8,831)

$

168

$

443,095

    

    

    

    

Mortgage

    

    

    

    

All Other and

    

Hilltop

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2019

Banking

Broker-Dealer

Origination

Insurance

Corporate

Eliminations

Consolidated

 

Net interest income (expense)

$

97,642

$

13,724

$

(2,725)

$

$

(1,384)

$

5,389

$

112,646

Provision for credit losses

 

47

 

47

Noninterest income

 

8,856

107,742

194,857

460

(5,410)

 

306,505

Noninterest expense

 

53,767

 

94,411

 

160,634

12,561

(187)

 

321,186

Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes

52,731

27,008

31,498

(13,485)

166

97,918

Income from discontinued operations before taxes

6,539

6,539

$

52,731

$

27,008

$

31,498

$

6,539

$

(13,485)

$

166

$

104,457

    

    

    

Mortgage

    

    

    

    

All Other and

    

Hilltop

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019

Banking

Broker-Dealer

Origination

Insurance

Corporate

Eliminations

Consolidated

 

Net interest income (expense)

$

283,755

$

37,984

$

(4,224)

$

$

(4,045)

$

14,749

$

328,219

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses

 

355

(29)

 

326

Noninterest income

 

30,219

304,607

477,438

1,820

(14,913)

 

799,171

Noninterest expense

 

172,744

 

277,088

 

417,032

37,397

(240)

 

904,021

Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes

140,875

65,532

56,182

(39,622)

76

223,043

Income from discontinued operations before taxes

10,519

10,519

$

140,875

$

65,532

$

56,182

$

10,519

$

(39,622)

$

76

$

233,562

    

    

    

Mortgage

    

    

    

    

All Other and

    

Hilltop

 

Banking

Broker-Dealer

Origination

Insurance

Corporate

Eliminations

Consolidated

 

September 30, 2020

Goodwill

$

247,368

$

7,008

$

13,071

$

$

$

$

267,447

Total assets

$

13,380,146

$

3,098,564

$

2,983,663

$

$

2,938,698

$

(5,465,519)

$

16,935,552

December 31, 2019

Goodwill

$

247,368

$

7,008

$

13,071

$

$

$

$

267,447

Assets of discontinued operations

$

$

$

$

248,429

$

$

$

248,429

Total assets

$

11,147,344

$

3,457,068

$

2,357,415

$

248,429

$

2,393,604

$

(4,431,412)

$

15,172,448

22. Earnings per Common Share

Net earnings, less any preferred dividends accumulated for the period (whether or not declared), is allocated between the common stock and participating securities pursuant to the two-class method, if applicable. Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, excluding participating nonvested restricted shares. The Company calculated basic earnings per common share using the treasury method instead of the two-class method since there were no instruments which qualified as participating securities during the three or nine months ended September 30, 2020 or 2019.

Diluted earnings per common share is computed in a similar manner, except that first the denominator is increased to include the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding if potentially dilutive common shares, excluding the participating securities, were issued using the treasury stock method. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, RSUs were the only potentially dilutive non-participating instruments issued by Hilltop. Next, the Company determines and includes in the diluted earnings per common share calculation the more dilutive effect of the participating securities using the treasury stock method or the two-class method. Undistributed losses are not allocated to the nonvested share-based payment awards (the participating securities) under the two-class method as the holders are not contractually obligated to share in the losses of the Company.

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Hilltop Holdings Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

(Unaudited)

The following table presents the computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share (in thousands, except per share data).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

   

2020

   

2019

   

2020

    

2019

 

Basic earnings per share:

Income from continuing operations

152,543

$

74,157

$

296,729

$

167,648

Income from discontinued operations

736

5,261

34,662

8,367

Income attributable to Hilltop

$

153,279

$

79,418

$

331,391

$

176,015

Weighted average shares outstanding - basic

 

90,200

 

91,745

 

90,291

 

92,931

Basic earnings per common share:

Income from continuing operations

$

1.69

$

0.81

$

3.29

$

1.80

Income from discontinued operations

0.01

0.06

0.38

0.09

$

1.70

$

0.87

$

3.67

$

1.89

Diluted earnings per share:

Income from continuing operations

$

152,543

$

74,157

$

296,729

$

167,648

Income from discontinued operations

736

5,261

34,662

8,367

Income attributable to Hilltop

$

153,279

$

79,418

$

331,391

$

176,015

Weighted average shares outstanding - basic

 

90,200

 

91,745

 

90,291

 

92,931

Effect of potentially dilutive securities

 

79

 

 

28

Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted

 

90,200

 

91,824

 

90,291

 

92,959

Diluted earnings per common share:

Income from continuing operations

$

1.69

$

0.81

$

3.29

$

1.80

Income from discontinued operations

0.01

0.05

0.38

0.09

$

1.70

$

0.86

$

3.67

$

1.89

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated historical financial statements and notes appearing elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (this “Quarterly Report”) and the financial information set forth in the tables herein.

Unless the context otherwise indicates, all references in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, or MD&A, to the “Company,” “we,” “us,” “our” or “ours” or similar words are to Hilltop Holdings Inc. and its direct and indirect wholly owned subsidiaries, references to “Hilltop” refer solely to Hilltop Holdings Inc., references to “PCC” refer to PlainsCapital Corporation (a wholly owned subsidiary of Hilltop), references to “Securities Holdings” refer to Hilltop Securities Holdings LLC (a wholly owned subsidiary of Hilltop), references to “Hilltop Securities” refer to Hilltop Securities Inc. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Securities Holdings), references to “HTS Independent Network” refer to Hilltop Securities Independent Network Inc. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Securities Holdings), Hilltop Securities and HTS Independent Network are collectively referred to as the “Hilltop Broker-Dealers”, references to the “Bank” refer to PlainsCapital Bank (a wholly owned subsidiary of PCC), references to “FNB” refer to First National Bank, references to “SWS” refer to the former SWS Group, Inc., references to “PrimeLending” refer to PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank) and its subsidiaries as a whole, references to “NLC” refer to National Lloyds Corporation (formerly a wholly owned subsidiary of Hilltop) and its subsidiaries as a whole, references to “NLIC” refer to National Lloyds Insurance Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of NLC) and references to “ASIC” refer to American Summit Insurance Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of NLC).

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Quarterly Report includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this Quarterly Report that address results or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future, and statements that are preceded by, followed by or include, words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “forecasts,” “goal,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “probable,” “projects,” “seeks,” “should,” “target,” “view” or “would” or the negative of these words and phrases or similar words or phrases, including such things as our business strategy, our financial condition, our revenue, our liquidity and sources of funding, market trends, operations and business, taxes, the impact of natural disasters or public health emergencies, such as the current outbreak of a novel strain of coronavirus (“COVID-19”) that the World Health Organization (“WHO”) declared a global pandemic in March 2020, information technology expenses, capital levels, mortgage servicing rights (“MSR”) assets, stock repurchases, funding sources for our tender offer, dividend payments, use of proceeds from offerings, expectations concerning mortgage loan origination volume, servicer advances and interest rate compression, expected levels of refinancing as a percentage of total loan origination volume, projected losses on mortgage loans originated, total expenses, the effects of government regulation applicable to our operations, the appropriateness of, and changes in, our allowance for credit losses and provision for (reversal of) credit losses, including as a result of the “current expected credit losses” (CECL) model, expected future benchmark rates, anticipated investment yields, our expectations regarding accretion of discount on loans in future periods, the collectability of loans, cybersecurity incidents and the outcome of litigation are forward-looking statements.

These forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions and expectations of our future performance taking into account all information currently available to us. These beliefs, assumptions and expectations are subject to risks and uncertainties and can change as a result of many possible events or factors, not all of which are known to us. If an event occurs, our business, business plan, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations may vary materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. Certain factors that could cause actual results to differ include, among others:

changes in general economic, market and business conditions in areas or markets where we compete, including changes in the price of crude oil;
the COVID-19 pandemic and the response of governmental authorities to the pandemic, which have caused and are causing significant harm to the global economy and our business;

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the credit risks of lending activities, including our ability to estimate credit losses and increases to the allowance for credit losses as a result of the implementation of CECL, as well as the effects of changes in the level of, and trends in, loan delinquencies and write-offs;
changes in the interest rate environment and transitions away from London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”);
risks associated with concentration in real estate related loans;
effectiveness of our data security controls in the face of cyber attacks;
the effects of our indebtedness on our ability to manage our business successfully, including the restrictions imposed by the indenture governing our indebtedness;
cost and availability of capital;
changes in state and federal laws, regulations or policies affecting one or more of our business segments, including changes in regulatory fees, deposit insurance premiums, capital requirements and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”);
changes in key management;
competition in our banking, broker-dealer and mortgage origination segments from other banks and financial institutions as well as investment banking and financial advisory firms, mortgage bankers, asset-based non-bank lenders and government agencies;
legal and regulatory proceedings;
risks associated with merger and acquisition integration; and
our ability to use excess capital in an effective manner.

For a more detailed discussion of these and other factors that may affect our business and that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, see “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 (“2019 Form 10-K”), which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on February 27, 2020, this Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” Part II, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” herein and other filings we have made with the SEC. We caution that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive, and new factors may emerge, or changes to the foregoing factors may occur, that could impact our business. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning our business attributable to us or any person acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above. We do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, relating to the matters discussed in this Quarterly Report except to the extent required by federal securities laws.

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OVERVIEW

We are a financial holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956. Our primary line of business is to provide business and consumer banking services from offices located throughout Texas through the Bank. We also provide an array of financial products and services through our broker-dealer and mortgage origination segments. The following includes additional details regarding the financial products and services provided by each of our primary business units.

PCC. PCC is a financial holding company that provides, through its subsidiaries, traditional banking and wealth, investment and treasury management services primarily in Texas and residential mortgage loans throughout the United States.

Securities Holdings. Securities Holdings is a holding company that provides, through its subsidiaries, investment banking and other related financial services, including municipal advisory, sales, trading and underwriting of taxable and tax-exempt fixed income securities, clearing, securities lending, structured finance and retail brokerage services throughout the United States.

On June 30, 2020, we completed the sale of all of the outstanding capital stock of NLC, which comprises the operations of our insurance segment, for cash proceeds of $154.1 million. Hilltop recognized a gain associated with this transaction of $32.3 million, net of $5.1 million in transaction costs and was subject to post-closing adjustments. During the third quarter of 2020, Hilltop recognized a $0.7 million pre-tax post-closing adjustment to income from discontinued operations related to the finalization of the June 30, 2020 closing balance sheet, resulting in an aggregate gain on sale of NLC of $33.1 million. The resulting book gain from this sale transaction was not recognized for tax purposes due to the excess tax basis over book basis being greater than the recorded book gain. Any tax loss related to this transaction is deemed disallowed pursuant to the rules under the Internal Revenue Code. We also entered into an agreement at closing to refrain for a specified period from certain activities that compete with the business of NLC. Accordingly, NLC’s results and its assets and liabilities have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements. Unless otherwise noted, for purposes of this Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, “consolidated” refers to our consolidated financial position and consolidated results of operations, including discontinued operations and assets and liabilities of the discontinued operations.

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, our income from continuing operations to common stockholders was $152.5 million, or $1.69 per diluted share, and $296.7 million, or $3.29 per diluted share, respectively. After income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, of $0.7 million, or $0.01 per diluted share, and $34.7 million, or $0.38 per diluted share, income applicable to common stockholders for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $153.3 million, or $1.70 per diluted share, and $331.4 million, or $3.67 per diluted share, respectively. We declared total common dividends of $0.09 and $0.27 per share during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively, resulting in a dividend payout ratio of 5.30% and 7.35%, respectively. Dividend payout ratio is defined as cash dividends declared per common share divided by basic earnings per common share, including discontinued operations. We also paid an aggregate of $15.2 million to repurchase shares of our common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2020.

We reported $205.9 million and $407.9 million of income from continuing operations before income taxes during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively, including the following contributions from our reportable business segments.

The banking segment contributed $50.3 million and $44.2 million of income before income taxes during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively;
The broker-dealer segment contributed $35.4 million and $81.4 million of income before income taxes during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively; and
The mortgage origination segment contributed $145.9 million and $324.1 million of income before income taxes during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively.

Our insurance segment, the results of which have been presented within discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements, contributed $2.1 million of income before income taxes during the nine months ended September 30, 2020.

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At September 30, 2020, on a consolidated basis, we had total assets of $16.9 billion, total deposits of $11.3 billion, total loans, including loans held for sale, of $10.3 billion and stockholders’ equity of $2.4 billion.

Recent Developments

COVID-19

COVID-19 has spread globally, including to every state in the United States, and has resulted in the WHO declaring COVID-19 to be a global pandemic. On March 13, 2020, the United States declared a national emergency with respect to COVID-19. The U.S. federal government issued social distancing guidelines as a measure to reduce the escalation of the spread of COVID-19 in the United States. A majority of states and certain U.S. territories, including the District of Columbia, issued orders requiring the closure of non-essential businesses and/or requiring residents to stay at home. The effects of COVID-19 and the governmental and societal response to the virus have negatively impacted financial markets and overall economic conditions on an unprecedented scale, resulting in the shuttering of businesses across the country and significant job loss. Many of these businesses reopened but may be operating at limited capacity levels. We are following guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and WHO and orders issued by the state and local governments where we operate. We have taken a number of precautionary steps to safeguard our business and our employees from COVID-19, including, but not limited to, banking by appointment, implementing employee travel restrictions and telecommuting arrangements, while maintaining business continuity so that we can continue to deliver service to and meet the demands of our clients. On March 23, 2020, most of our employees began working remotely, with only certain operationally critical employees working on site at our principal business headquarters and business segment locations. In early September 2020, a majority of our employees began the process of returning to their respective office locations based on rotational team schedules to better ensure that appropriate social distancing measures are available. We are monitoring and assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on a daily basis to ensure that we continue to adhere to guidelines and orders issued by federal, state and local governments.

In March and April 2020, President Trump signed into law two relief bills, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act (the “PPP/HCE Act”), which are intended to provide emergency relief to several groups and individuals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the numerous provisions contained in the CARES Act is the creation of a $349 billion Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) that provides federal government loan forgiveness for Small Business Administration (“SBA”) Section 7(a) loans for small businesses, which may include our customers, to pay up to eight weeks of employee compensation and other basic expenses such as electric and telephone bills. The PPP/HCE Act included an additional $310 billion for PPP funding. The CARES Act also provides for relief related to the adoption of certain accounting principles as well as tax provisions that may support the improvement of working capital levels. We will continue to evaluate the provisions of the CARES Act and the PPP/HCE Act and their impact on Hilltop and our employees as well as our customers and clients.

In light of the extreme volatility and disruptions in the capital and credit markets in March 2020 resulting from the COVID-19 crisis and its negative impact on the economy, including a significant decline in corporate debt and equity issuances and a deterioration in the mortgage servicing and commercial paper markets, we took a number of precautionary actions in March to enhance our financial flexibility by bolstering our cash position to ensure we have adequate cash readily available to meet both expected and unexpected funding needs without adversely affecting our daily operations. Additionally, as previously announced on April 30, 2020, in light of the uncertain outlook for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hilltop’s board of directors suspended its stock repurchase program. Hilltop’s board of directors has the ability to reinstate the stock repurchase program at its discretion as circumstances warrant.

The Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) reduced the target range for short-term rates by 150 basis points to a range of 0% to 0.25% during March 2020 to support the economy and potentially reduce the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of these rate adjustments and the stressed economic outlook, mortgage rates fell to historically low levels. Given our exposure to the mortgage market, this precipitous decline in rates resulted in significant growth in mortgage originations at both PrimeLending and Hilltop Securities through its partnerships with certain housing finance authorities. To improve our already strong liquidity position, we raised brokered and other wholesale funding to support the enhanced mortgage activity. To meet increased liquidity demands, we raised brokered deposits that totaled $1.0 billion at September 30, 2020, down from $1.4 billion at June 30, 2020. Further, beginning in March 2020, an additional $200 million of deposits was swept from Hilltop Securities into the Bank, bringing the total funds swept from Hilltop

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Securities to approximately $1.5 billion until June 2020 when the total funds swept was reduced back to $1.3 billion at June 30, 2020. During the third quarter of 2020, given the continued strong cash and liquidity levels at the Bank, the total funds swept from Hilltop Securities into the Bank was reduced further to approximately $900 million as of September 30, 2020.

Further, during March 2020, we substantially reduced the trading portfolio inventory limits at Hilltop Securities in an effort to protect capital, minimize losses and ensure target liquidity levels throughout the crisis. During March 2020, the capital markets experienced significant friction and in certain portions of the market, liquidity was not prevalent. In particular for us, the market for municipal securities, collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage derivatives and Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) mortgage pools experienced significant liquidity stress at points during the month. The Federal Reserve, in partnership with the Treasury of the United States, stepped in to provide additional liquidity in each of these critical markets. We will continue to evaluate market conditions and determine the appropriateness of capital market inventory limits.

Asset Valuation

At each reporting date between annual impairment tests, the Company considers potential indicators of impairment. Given the current economic uncertainty and volatility surrounding COVID-19, the Company assessed whether the events and circumstances resulted in it being more likely than not that the fair value of any reporting unit and other intangible assets were less than their respective carrying value. Impairment indicators considered comprised the condition of the economy and banking industry; government intervention and regulatory updates; the impact of recent events to financial performance and cost factors of the reporting unit; performance of the Company’s stock and other relevant events. Specifically, our banking segment has experienced lower-than-forecasted operating results during the first nine months of 2020, due to conditions discussed in detail within the discussion of banking segment results that follows.

Given the potential impacts as a result of COVID-19, actual results may differ materially from our current estimates as the scope of COVID-19 evolves or if the duration of business disruptions is longer than currently anticipated. The Company further considered the amount by which fair value exceeded book value in the most recent quantitative analysis and sensitivities performed. At the conclusion of the assessment, the Company determined that as of September 30, 2020 it was more likely than not that the fair value of goodwill and other intangible assets exceeded their respective carrying values.

While certain valuation assumptions and judgments will change to account for pandemic-related circumstances, we do not anticipate significant changes in methodology used to determine the fair value of our goodwill, intangible assets and other long-lived assets. We will continue to monitor developments regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and measures implemented in response to the pandemic, market capitalization, overall economic conditions and any other triggering events or circumstances that may indicate an impairment in the future.

In addition, the COVID-19 crisis could cause a further and sustained decline in our stock price or the occurrence of what management would deem to be a triggering event that could, under certain circumstances, cause us to perform impairment tests on our goodwill and other intangible assets, and result in an impairment charge being recorded for that period. In the event that we conclude that all or a portion of our goodwill and other intangible assets are impaired, a non-cash charge for the respective amount of such impairment would be recorded to earnings. Such a charge would have no impact on tangible capital or regulatory capital.

Loan Portfolio

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the CARES Act was passed in March 2020, which among other things, allows the Bank to suspend the TDR requirements for certain loan modifications to be categorized as a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”). Starting in March, the Bank implemented several actions to better support our impacted banking clients and allow for loan modifications such as principal and/or interest payment deferrals, participation in the PPP as an SBA preferred lender and personal banking assistance including waived fees, increased daily spending limits and suspension of residential foreclosure activities. The COVID-19 payment deferment programs allow for a deferral of principal and/or interest payments with such deferred principal payments due and payable on the maturity date of the existing loan. The Bank’s actions originally included approval of approximately $968 million in COVID-19 related loan modifications as of June 30, 2020.

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As noted in the table below, during the third quarter of 2020, the Bank continued to support its impacted banking clients through the approval of COVID-19 related loan modifications, which resulted in an additional $57.7 million of new COVID-19 related loan modifications since June 30, 2020. The portfolio of active deferrals that have not reached the end of their deferral period was approximately $291 million as of September 30, 2020, of which approximately $208 million had received an additional deferral. COVID-19 related loan modifications of approximately $662 million have returned to agreed-upon contractual terms and had made at least one required principal and/or interest payment since the end of their initial deferral period. Such loans represent elevated risk, therefore management continues to monitor these loans. The extent to which these measures will impact the Bank is uncertain, and any progression of loans, whether receiving COVID-19 payment deferrals or not, into non-performing assets, during future periods is uncertain and will depend on future developments that cannot be predicted.

While all industries could experience adverse impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, certain of our loan portfolio industry sectors and subsectors, including real estate collateralized by office buildings, have an increased level of risk. The following table provides information on those loans held for investment balances, by portfolio industry sector, including collectively evaluated allowance for credit losses, that include active COVID-19 payment deferrals (dollars in thousands).

Allowance for

Allowance for

Active

Credit Losses

Credit Losses

Active

90 Day

Classified

Allowance

as a % of

as a % of

90 Day

Interest and

Total

and

for

Total

Classified

    

Principal

Principal

Active Modifications

Criticized

Credit

Active

and Criticized

September 30, 2020

Deferrals

Deferrals

($)

(#)

Loans

Losses

Modifications

Loans

Hotel

$

96,707

$

60,954

$

157,661

21

$

107,801

$

19,630

12.5

%

18.2

%

Restaurants

74,226

274

74,500

14

74,489

16,151

21.7

%

21.7

%

Transportation & Warehousing

27,769

-

27,769

38

27,769

5,432

19.6

%

19.6

%

1-4 Family Residential

57

8,201

8,258

38

4,799

214

2.6

%

4.5

%

Retail

4,231

-

4,231

3

3,336

818

19.3

%

24.5

%

Real Estate & Rental & Leasing

2,868

-

2,868

4

-

98

3.4

%

-

%

All Other

7,850

8,306

16,156

18

12,502

6,409

39.7

%

51.3

%

$

213,708

$

77,735

$

291,443

136

$

230,696

$

48,752

16.7

%

21.1

%

In addition, the Bank’s loan portfolio includes collateralized loans extended to businesses that depend on the energy industry, including those within the exploration and production, field services, pipeline construction and transportation sectors. The sharp decline in crude oil prices coupled with the economic uncertainties associated with COVID-19 have increased pressures on this portfolio. The following table summarizes energy loan portfolio exposures by sector (dollars in thousands).

Loans Held for Investment Balances

Allowance For Credit Losses as

Total

Classified

Allowance

a Percentage of

Loans Held

Unfunded

Total

and Criticized

For Credit

Total Loans Held

Classified and

September 30, 2020

For Investment

Commitments

Commitments

Loans

Losses

For Investment

Criticized Loans

Exploration / Production

$

9,538

$

9,055

$

18,593

$

$

2,317

24.3

%

%

Midstream

18,795

2,500

21,295

10,968

4,616

24.6

%

42.1

%

Services

 

34,655

 

14,701

 

49,356

 

7,854

 

1,201

3.5

%

15.3

%

Other

27,041

24,076

51,117

1,501

41

0.2

%

2.7

%

$

90,029

$

50,332

$

140,361

$

20,323

$

8,175

9.1

%

40.2

%

As noted above, the Bank’s actions during the second quarter of 2020 also included supporting our impacted banking clients through the PPP effort. These efforts included approval and funding of over 2,800 PPP loans ranging from approximately $1 thousand to $8.4 million, with approximately $671 million remaining outstanding at September 30, 2020. The PPP loans made by the Bank are guaranteed by the SBA and, if used by the borrower for authorized purposes, may be fully forgiven. On October 2, 2020, the SBA began approving PPP forgiveness applications and remitting forgiveness payments to PPP lenders for PPP borrowers.

Refer to the discussion in the “Financial Condition – Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans” section that follows for more details regarding the significant assumptions and estimates involved in estimating credit losses given the economic uncertainties associated with COVID-19.

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Outlook for 2020

The spread of COVID-19 has had, and is expected to continue to have, adverse effects on our business and operations. The broader adverse implications of COVID-19 on the operations and overall financial performance of our clients is uncertain due to the currently unknowable duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic. The extent of the impact of COVID-19 on our operational and financial performance for the remainder of 2020 is likewise currently uncertain and will depend on certain developments, including, among others, the ultimate impact of COVID-19 on our customers and clients, potential further disruption and deterioration in the global economy and the financial services industry, including the mortgage servicing and commercial paper markets, and additional, or extended, federal, state and local government orders and regulations that might be imposed in response to the pandemic, all of which are uncertain.

See “Item 1A. Risk Factors” for additional discussion of the potential adverse impact of COVID-19 on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Tender Offer

On September 23, 2020, we announced the commencement of a modified “Dutch auction” tender offer to purchase shares of our common stock for an aggregate cash purchase price of up to $350 million and at a per share price not less than $18.25 and not more than $21.00, net to the seller in cash, less any applicable tax withholding and without interest, upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in the tender offer documentation. Unless the offer is extended or terminated, the tender offer is scheduled to expire at the end of the day on October 30, 2020. We expect to fund the tender offer with cash on hand. Under capital adequacy and regulatory requirements, we must meet specific capital requirements that involve quantitative measures of our assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. As of September 30, 2020, Hilltop and PlainsCapital capital positions and ratios exceeded regulatory capital requirements including conservation buffer assuming a fully subscribed tender offer closed on September 30, 2020. The Federal Reserve has informed Hilltop that it is has no objection to the tender offer.

NLC Sale

As previously discussed, on June 30, 2020, we completed the sale of all of the outstanding capital stock of NLC, which comprised the operations of our insurance segment. Accordingly, NLC’s results and its assets and liabilities have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements.

Subordinated Notes due 2030 and 2035

On May 7, 2020, we completed a public offering of $50 million aggregate principal amount of 5.75% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due May 15, 2030 (the “2030 Subordinated Notes”) and $150 million aggregate principal amount of 6.125% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due May 15, 2035 (the “2035 Subordinated Notes”). We collectively refer to the 2030 Subordinated Notes and the 2035 Subordinated Notes as the “Subordinated Notes”. The price for the Subordinated Notes was 100% of the principal amount of the Subordinated Notes. The net proceeds from the offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and fees and expenses of $3.4 million, were $196.6 million. We intend to use the net proceeds of the offerings for general corporate purposes.

The 2030 Subordinated Notes and the 2035 Subordinated Notes will mature on May 15, 2030 and May 15, 2035, respectively. We may redeem the Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, from time to time, subject to obtaining Federal Reserve approval, beginning with the interest payment date of May 15, 2025 for the 2030 Subordinated Notes and beginning with the interest payment date of May 15, 2030 for the 2035 Subordinated Notes, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Subordinated Notes being redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to but excluding the date of redemption.

The 2030 Subordinated Notes bear interest at a rate of 5.75% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears commencing on November 15, 2020. The interest rate for the 2030 Subordinated Notes will reset quarterly beginning May 15, 2025 to an interest rate, per year, equal to the then-current benchmark rate, which is expected to be three-month term Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) rate, plus 5.68%, payable quarterly in arrears. The 2035 Subordinated Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.125% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears commencing on November 15, 2020. The interest rate for the 2035 Subordinated Notes will reset quarterly beginning May 15, 2030 to an interest rate, per year, equal to

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the then-current benchmark rate, which is expected to be three-month term SOFR rate, plus 5.80%, payable quarterly in arrears.

Factors Affecting Results of Operations

Technology Enhancements and Corporate Initiatives

In furtherance of our goal of building a premier, diversified financial services company, we regularly evaluate strategic opportunities to invest in our business and technology platforms. Such investments are intended to support long-term technological competitiveness and improve operational efficiencies throughout our organization. During 2018, we began the significant investment in new technological solutions, substantial core system upgrades and other technology enhancements. Such significant investments specifically include single enterprise-wide general ledger and procurement solutions, a mortgage loan origination system and a core system replacement within our broker-dealer segment (collectively referred to as “Core System Improvements”). In combination with these technology enhancements, we are continuing our efforts to consolidate common back office functions. We believe that costs incurred related to these Core System Improvements and the consolidation of common back office functions will continue to represent a significant portion of our noninterest expenses throughout 2020 and into 2021, but we are making such investments with the expectation that they will result in cost savings over the long term. During the second quarter of 2020, we implemented the core system replacement within our broker-dealer segment. This was a highly complex endeavor and the broker-dealer segment continues to work with technology vendors, clients, and internal stakeholders. Additionally, through the third quarter of 2020, we made significant progress in our transition to a single, enterprise-wide general ledger solution by replacing legacy ledgers at our banking and mortgage origination segments, as well as corporate. Costs related to our Core System Improvements, disaggregated by segment between internal-use software costs that were capitalized as premises, equipment and other assets and costs that were recorded to noninterest expense, were as follows (in thousands).

Mortgage

Hilltop

Three Months Ended September 30, 2020

Banking

Broker-Dealer

Origination

Insurance

Corporate

Consolidated

Premises, equipment and other assets

$

$

$

37

$

$

$

37

Noninterest expense

362

651

1,013

Total

$

$

$

399

$

$

651

$

1,050

Mortgage

Hilltop

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020

Banking

Broker-Dealer

Origination

Insurance

Corporate

Consolidated

Premises, equipment and other assets

$

$

1,223

$

925

$

$

3,400

$

5,548

Noninterest expense

4,027

874

1,428

6,329

Total

$

$

5,250

$

1,799

$

$

4,828

$

11,877

Mortgage

Hilltop

Three Months Ended September 30, 2019

Banking

Broker-Dealer

Origination

Insurance

Corporate

Consolidated

Premises, equipment and other assets

$

$

810

$

1,033

$

$

1,488

$

3,331

Noninterest expense

1,431

708

873

3,012

Total

$

$

2,241

$

1,741

$

$

2,361

$

6,343

Mortgage

Hilltop

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019

Banking

Broker-Dealer

Origination

Insurance

Corporate

Consolidated

Premises, equipment and other assets

$

$

2,664

$

5,401

$

$

2,825

$

10,890

Noninterest expense

3,557

2,478

2,732

8,767

Total

$

$

6,221

$

7,879

$

$

5,557

$

19,657

Factors Affecting Comparability of Results of Operations

Changes in Management and Efficiency Initiative-Related Charges

In 2019, we successfully completed several leadership transitions through effective succession planning. During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, the broker-dealer segment’s results reflected aggregate pre-tax charges of $2.2 million within employees’ compensation and benefits noninterest expenses, all of which were recognized in the first quarter of 2019, related to the resignation of Hill A. Feinberg as President and Chief Executive Officer of Hilltop Securities and the appointment of his successor, M. Bradley Winges. Also, during the nine months ended September 30, 2019, corporate

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recognized a pre-tax charge of $5.8 million within employees’ compensation and benefits noninterest expenses in the first quarter of 2019 related to the retirement of Alan B. White, our former Vice Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer. These management changes and the related impact on our results of operations are collectively referred to as the “Leadership Changes.” For additional information regarding the Leadership Changes, refer to the section captioned “Factors Affecting the Current Year — Changes in Management and Efficiency Initiative-Related Changes” in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in our 2019 Form 10-K.

In addition to the costs associated with the Leadership Changes, during the nine months ended September 30, 2019, Corporate and the broker-dealer segment recognized $0.4 million and $1.0 million, respectively, in efficiency initiative-related charges.

LIBOR 

In July 2017, the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) announced that it intends to cease compelling banks to submit rates for the calculation of LIBOR after 2021. Working groups comprised of various regulators and other industry groups have been formed in the United States and other countries in order to provide guidance on this topic. In particular, the Alternative Reference Rates Committee (“ARRC”) has proposed that SOFR is the rate that represents best practice as the alternative to LIBOR for use in derivatives and other financial contracts that are currently indexed to LIBOR. The ARRC has also published recommended fall-back language for LIBOR-linked financial instruments, among numerous other areas of guidance.

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance in March 2020 intended to provide temporary optional expedients and exceptions to the GAAP guidance on contract modifications and hedge accounting to ease the financial reporting burdens related to the expected market transition from LIBOR and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. Additionally, the FASB issued specific accounting guidance that permits the use of the Overnight Index Swap rate based on the SOFR to be designated as a benchmark interest rate for hedge accounting purposes.

Certain loans we originate bear interest at a floating rate based on LIBOR. We also pay interest on certain borrowings, are counterparty to derivative agreements that are based on LIBOR and have existing contracts with payment calculations that use LIBOR as the reference rate. These changes will create various risks surrounding the financial, operational, compliance and legal aspects associated with changing certain elements of existing contracts.

ARRC has proposed a paced market transition plan to SOFR from LIBOR, and organizations are currently working on industry-wide and company-specific transition plans as it relates to derivatives and cash markets exposed to LIBOR. However, at this time, no consensus exists as to what rate or rates may become acceptable alternatives to LIBOR and it is impossible to predict the effect of any such alternatives on the value of LIBOR-based securities and variable rate loans, debentures, or other securities or financial arrangements, given LIBOR’s role in determining market interest rates globally.

We have made a preliminary assessment of areas across the organization that will be affected by the migration away from LIBOR. We are now in the impact assessment and early implementation stages. We are considering the actions that will be required, including negotiating certain of our agreements based on an alternative benchmark rate that may be established, if any. During the third quarter of 2020, PrimeLending began originating conventional adjustable-rate mortgage, or ARM, loan products utilizing a SOFR rate with terms consistent with government-sponsored enterprise, or GSE, guidelines. In addition, the Bank’s management team is currently working with its commercial relationships who have LIBOR-based contracts maturing after 2021 to amend terms and establish an alternative benchmark rate. We are also continuing work on an enterprise-wide contract model and software review to better evaluate both the impacts of the LIBOR phase-out and transition requirements. As a result of this effort, we may incur significant expenses in effecting the transition, including, but not limited to, changes to our agreements and our agreements with customers that do not contemplate LIBOR being unavailable, systems and processes.

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Segment Information

As previously discussed, on June 30, 2020, we completed the sale of all of the outstanding capital stock of NLC, which comprised the operations of the insurance segment. Accordingly, insurance segment results and its assets and liabilities have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements and in the table below. Additional details are presented in Note 3, Discontinued Operations, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.

As a result of the above noted sale of NLC, we have two primary business units within continuing operations, PCC (banking and mortgage origination) and Securities Holdings (broker-dealer). Under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”), our business units are comprised of three reportable business segments organized primarily by the core products offered to the segments’ respective customers: banking, broker-dealer, mortgage origination and insurance (discontinued operations). Consistent with our historical segment operating results, we anticipate that future revenues will be driven primarily from the banking segment, with the remainder being generated by our broker-dealer and mortgage origination segments. Operating results for the mortgage origination segment have historically been more volatile than operating results for the banking and broker-dealer segments.

The banking segment includes the operations of the Bank. The banking segment primarily provides business and consumer banking services from offices located throughout Texas and generates revenue from its portfolio of earning assets. The Bank’s results of operations are primarily dependent on net interest income. The Bank also derives revenue from other sources, including service charges on customer deposit accounts and trust fees.

The broker-dealer segment includes the operations of Securities Holdings, which operates through its wholly owned subsidiaries Hilltop Securities, HTS Independent Network and Hilltop Securities Asset Management, LLC. The broker-dealer segment generates a majority of its revenues from fees and commissions earned from investment advisory and securities brokerage services. Hilltop Securities is a broker-dealer registered with the SEC and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) and a member of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). HTS Independent Network is an introducing broker-dealer that is also registered with the SEC and FINRA. Hilltop Securities, HTS Independent Network and Hilltop Securities Asset Management, LLC are registered investment advisers under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.

The mortgage origination segment includes the operations of PrimeLending, which offers a variety of loan products and generates revenue predominantly from fees charged on the origination and servicing of loans and from selling these loans in the secondary market.

Corporate includes certain activities not allocated to specific business segments. These activities include holding company financing and investing activities, merchant banking investment opportunities, and management and administrative services to support the overall operations of the Company.

The eliminations of intercompany transactions are included in “All Other and Eliminations.” Additional information concerning our reportable segments is presented in Note 21, Segment and Related Information, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.

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The following table presents certain information about the operating results of our reportable segments (in thousands). This table serves as a basis for the discussion and analysis in the segment operating results sections that follow.

Three Months Ended September 30,

Variance 2020 vs 2019

Nine Months Ended September 30,

Variance 2020 vs 2019

2020

2019

Amount

Percent

2020

2019

Amount

Percent

Net interest income (expense):

Banking

$

96,416

$

97,642

$

(1,226)

(1)

%

$

284,440

$

283,755

$

685

0

%

Broker-Dealer

8,168

13,724

(5,556)

(40)

%

31,005

37,984

(6,979)

(18)

%

Mortgage Origination

(2,349)

(2,725)

376

14

%

(3,647)

(4,224)

577

14

%

Corporate

(4,594)

(1,384)

(3,210)

(232)

%

(9,482)

(4,045)

(5,437)

(134)

%

All Other and Eliminations

4,259

5,389

(1,130)

(21)

%

14,478

14,749

(271)

(2)

%

Hilltop Consolidated

$

101,900

$

112,646

$

(10,746)

(10)

%

$

316,794

$

328,219

$

(11,425)

(3)

%

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses:

Banking

$

$

$

$

99,875

$

355

$

99,520

NM

Broker-Dealer

(602)

47

(649)

NM

98

(29)

127

NM

Mortgage Origination

Corporate

All Other and Eliminations

Hilltop Consolidated

$

(602)

$

47

$

(649)

NM

$

99,973

$

326

$

99,647

NM

Noninterest income:

Banking

$

9,819

$

8,856

$

963

11

%

$

29,246

$

30,219

$

(973)

(3)

%

Broker-Dealer

141,022

107,742

33,280

31

%

350,192

304,607

45,585

15

%

Mortgage Origination

355,471

194,857

160,614

82

%

874,926

477,438

397,488

83

%

Corporate

477

460

17

4

%

3,315

1,820

1,495

82

%

All Other and Eliminations

(4,078)

(5,410)

1,332

25

%

(15,130)

(14,913)

(217)

(1)

%

Hilltop Consolidated

$

502,711

$

306,505

$

196,206

64

%

$

1,242,549

$

799,171

$

443,378

55

%

Noninterest expense:

Banking

$

55,980

$

53,767

$

2,213

4

%

$

169,569

$

172,744

$

(3,175)

(2)

%

Broker-Dealer

114,393

94,411

19,982

21

%

299,743

277,088

22,655

8

%

Mortgage Origination

207,176

160,634

46,542

29

%

547,222

417,032

130,190

31

%

Corporate

21,999

12,561

9,438

75

%

35,741

37,397

(1,656)

(4)

%

All Other and Eliminations

(203)

(187)

(16)

(9)

%

(820)

(240)

(580)

NM

Hilltop Consolidated

$

399,345

$

321,186

$

78,159

24

%

$

1,051,455

$

904,021

$

147,434

16

%

Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes:

Banking

$

50,255

$

52,731

$

(2,476)

(5)

%

$

44,242

$

140,875

$

(96,633)

(69)

%

Broker-Dealer

35,399

27,008

8,391

31

%

81,356

65,532

15,824

24

%

Mortgage Origination

145,946

31,498

114,448

363

%

324,057

56,182

267,875

477

%

Corporate

(26,116)

(13,485)

(12,631)

(94)

%

(41,908)

(39,622)

(2,286)

(6)

%

All Other and Eliminations

384

166

218

131

%

168

76

92

121

%

Hilltop Consolidated

$

205,868

$

97,918

$

107,950

110

%

$

407,915

$

223,043

$

184,872

83

%

Income (loss) from discontinued operations before taxes:

Insurance

$

$

6,539

$

(6,539)

NM

$

2,103

$

10,519

$

(8,416)

NM

Corporate (1)

736

736

-

33,077

33,077

-

Hilltop Consolidated

$

736

$

6,539

$

(5,803)

NM

$

35,180

$

10,519

$

24,661

NM

(1)Includes the respective gains from sale of the insurance segment, net of transaction costs.

NM

Not meaningful.

Key Performance Indicators

We utilize several key indicators of financial condition and operating performance to evaluate the various aspects of our business. In addition to traditional financial metrics, such as revenue and growth trends, we monitor several other financial measures and non-financial operating metrics to help us evaluate growth trends, measure the adequacy of our capital based on regulatory reporting requirements, measure the effectiveness of our operations and assess operational efficiencies. These indicators change from time to time as the opportunities and challenges in our businesses change.

Specifically, performance ratios and asset quality ratios are typically used for measuring the performance of banking and financial institutions. We consider return on average stockholders’ equity, return on average assets and net interest margin to be important supplemental measures of operating performance that are commonly used by securities analysts, investors and other parties interested in the banking and financial industry. The net charge-offs to average loans outstanding ratio is also considered a key measure for our banking segment as it indicates the performance of our loan portfolio.

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In addition, we consider regulatory capital ratios to be key measures that are used by us, as well as banking regulators, investors and analysts, to assess our regulatory capital position and to compare our regulatory capital to that of other financial services companies. We monitor our capital strength in terms of both leverage ratio and risk-based capital ratios based on capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. The risk-based capital ratios are minimum supervisory ratios generally applicable to banking organizations, but banking organizations are widely expected to operate with capital positions well above the minimum ratios. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a material effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

How We Generate Revenue

We generate revenue from net interest income and from noninterest income. Net interest income represents the difference between the income earned on our assets, including our loans and investment securities, and our cost of funds, including the interest paid on the deposits and borrowings that are used to support our assets. Net interest income is a significant contributor to our operating results and is primarily earned by our banking segment. Fluctuations in interest rates, as well as the amounts and types of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities we hold, affect net interest income. Net interest income from continuing operations decreased during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same period in 2019, primarily due to decreases within our broker-dealer segment and corporate, partially offset by increases within our banking and mortgage origination segments.

The other component of our revenue is noninterest income, which is primarily comprised of the following:

(i)Income from broker-dealer operations. Through Securities Holdings, we provide investment banking and other related financial services. We generated $196.0 million and $176.2 million in securities commissions and fees and investment and securities advisory fees and commissions, and $142.9 million and $118.8 million in gains from derivative and trading portfolio activities (included within other noninterest income), during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

(ii)Income from mortgage operations. Through PrimeLending, we generate noninterest income by originating and selling mortgage loans. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, we generated $875.3 million and $477.4 million, respectively, in net gains from sale of loans, other mortgage production income (including income associated with retained mortgage servicing rights), and mortgage loan origination fees.

The increase in noninterest income from continuing operations during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same period in 2019, noted in the segment results table previously presented was primarily due to an increase of $397.8 million in net gains from sale of loans, other mortgage production income and mortgage loan origination fees within our mortgage origination segment.

We also incur noninterest expenses in the operation of our businesses. Our businesses engage in labor intensive activities and, consequently, employees’ compensation and benefits represent the majority of our noninterest expenses.

Consolidated Operating Results

Income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders during the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $152.5 million, or $1.69 per diluted share, compared with $74.2 million, or $0.81 per diluted share, during the three months ended September 30, 2019. Income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $296.7 million, or $3.29 per diluted share, compared with $167.6 million, or $1.80 per diluted share, during the nine months ended September 30, 2019. Hilltop’s financial results from continuing operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 reflect both a significant increase in mortgage origination segment net gains from sales of loans and other mortgage production income, while the nine months ended September 30, 2020 also included a significant build in the allowance for credit losses associated with the deterioration of the economic outlook attributable to the market disruption and economic uncertainties caused by COVID-19. The nine months ended September 30, 2019 results included the costs incurred associated with the significant Leadership Changes and other efficiency initiative-related charges which, in the aggregate, totaled $9.4 million before income taxes.

Including income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, income applicable to common stockholders was $153.3 million, or $1.70 per diluted share, during the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $79.4

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million, or $0.86 per diluted share, during the three months ended September 30, 2019. Including income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, income applicable to common stockholders was $331.4 million, or $3.67 per diluted share, during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $176.0 million, or $1.89 per diluted share, during the nine months ended September 30, 2019.

Certain items included in net income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 resulted from purchase accounting associated with the merger of PlainsCapital Corporation with and into a wholly owned subsidiary of Hilltop on November 30, 2012 (the “PlainsCapital Merger”), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) -assisted transaction (the “FNB Transaction”) whereby the Bank acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of FNB, the acquisition of SWS Group, Inc. in a stock and cash transaction (the “SWS Merger”) and the acquisition of The Bank of River Oaks (“BORO”) in an all-cash transaction (“BORO Acquisition”), respectively (collectively, the “Bank Transactions”). Income before income taxes included the following purchase accounting items related to the Bank Transactions (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30, 2020

PlainsCapital Merger

FNB Transaction

SWS Merger

BORO Acquisition

Total

Net accretion on earning assets and liabilities

$

358

$

2,031

$

591

$

601

$

3,581

Amortization of identifiable intangibles

(858)

(31)

(156)

(516)

(1,561)

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020

PlainsCapital Merger

FNB Transaction

SWS Merger

BORO Acquisition

Total

Net accretion on earning assets and liabilities

$

1,065

$

9,811

$

756

$

1,833

$

13,465

Amortization of identifiable intangibles

(2,575)

(107)

(469)

(1,706)

(4,857)

Three Months Ended September 30, 2019

PlainsCapital Merger

FNB Transaction

SWS Merger

BORO Acquisition

Total

Net accretion on earning assets and liabilities

$

732

$

5,874

$

300

$

928

$

7,834

Amortization of identifiable intangibles

(1,000)

(69)

(174)

(635)

(1,878)

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019

PlainsCapital Merger

FNB Transaction

SWS Merger

BORO Acquisition

Total

Net accretion on earning assets and liabilities

$

1,834

$

15,813

$

1,307

$

3,909

$

22,863

Amortization of identifiable intangibles

(3,002)

(221)

(522)

(2,063)

(5,808)

The information shown in the table below includes certain key performance indicators on a consolidated basis.

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

2020

    

2019

 

2020

  

2019

 

Return on average stockholders' equity (1)

 

25.94

%  

15.55

%  

19.85

%  

11.81

%

Return on average assets (2)

 

3.71

%  

2.26

%  

2.90

%  

1.76

%

Net interest margin (3) (4)

2.56

%  

3.45

%  

2.90

%  

3.54

%

Leverage ratio (5) (end of period)

13.03

%  

12.67

%

Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio (6) (end of period)

 

19.85

%  

16.15

%

(1)Return on average stockholders’ equity is defined as consolidated income attributable to Hilltop divided by average total Hilltop stockholders’ equity.
(2)Return on average assets is defined as consolidated net income divided by average assets.
(3)Net interest margin is defined as net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets. We consider net interest margin as a key indicator of profitability, as it represents interest earned on our interest-earning assets compared to interest incurred.
(4)The securities financing operations within our broker-dealer segment had the effect of lowering both the net interest margin and taxable equivalent net interest margin by 18 basis points and 36 basis points during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and 25 basis points and 41 basis points during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
(5)The leverage ratio is a regulatory capital ratio and is defined as Tier 1 risk-based capital divided by average consolidated assets.
(6)The common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio is a regulatory capital ratio and is defined as common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital divided by risk weighted assets. Common equity includes common equity Tier 1 capital (common stockholders’ equity and certain minority interests in the equity capital accounts of consolidated subsidiaries, but excluding goodwill and various intangible assets) and additional Tier 1 capital (certain qualifying minority interests not included in common equity Tier 1 capital, certain preferred stock and related surplus, and certain subordinated debt).

We present net interest margin and net interest income below, on a taxable-equivalent basis. Net interest margin (taxable equivalent), a non-GAAP measure, is defined as taxable equivalent net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets. Taxable equivalent adjustments are based on the applicable corporate federal income tax rate of 21% for all periods presented. The interest income earned on certain earning assets is completely or partially exempt from federal

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income tax. As such, these tax-exempt instruments typically yield lower returns than taxable investments. To provide more meaningful comparisons of net interest margins for all earning assets, we use net interest income on a taxable-equivalent basis in calculating net interest margin by increasing the interest income earned on tax-exempt assets to make it fully equivalent to interest income earned on taxable investments.

During the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, purchase accounting contributed 10 and 26 basis points, respectively, to our consolidated taxable equivalent net interest margin of 2.57% and 3.46%, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, purchase accounting contributed 14 and 27 basis points, respectively, to our consolidated taxable equivalent net interest margin of 2.90% and 3.55%, respectively, and primarily related to the following purchase accounting items associated with the Bank Transactions (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30, 2020

PlainsCapital Merger

FNB Transaction

SWS Merger

BORO Acquisition

Total

Accretion of discount on loans

$

301

$

2,031

$

414

$

600

$

3,346

Accretion of discount on acquired securities

57

57

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020

PlainsCapital Merger

FNB Transaction

SWS Merger

BORO Acquisition

Total

Accretion of discount on loans

$

949

$

9,811

$

609

$

1,833

$

13,202

Accretion of discount on acquired securities

116

116

Three Months Ended September 30, 2019

PlainsCapital Merger

FNB Transaction

SWS Merger

BORO Acquisition

Total

Accretion of discount on loans

$

847

$

5,874

$

276

$

870

$

7,868

Accretion (amortization) of discount (premium) on acquired securities

(115)

8

58

(49)

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019

PlainsCapital Merger

FNB Transaction

SWS Merger

BORO Acquisition

Total

Accretion of discount on loans

$

2,287

$

15,813

$

1,225

$

3,723

$

23,047

Accretion (amortization) of discount (premium) on acquired securities

(453)

22

186

(245)

The tables below provide additional details regarding our consolidated net interest income (dollars in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

    

Average

    

Interest

    

Annualized

    

Average

    

Interest

    

Annualized

 

Outstanding

Earned or

Yield or

Outstanding

Earned or

Yield or

Balance

Paid

Rate

Balance

Paid

Rate

Assets

Interest-earning assets

Loans held for sale

$

2,530,805

$

20,108

 

3.18

%  

$

1,754,975

$

18,178

 

4.14

%

Loans held for investment, gross (1)

7,730,711

84,847

 

4.32

%  

7,167,169

101,402

 

5.57

%

Investment securities - taxable

 

1,974,911

 

11,017

 

2.23

%  

 

1,815,454

 

15,733

 

3.47

%

Investment securities - non-taxable (2)

 

243,716

 

2,011

 

3.30

%  

 

240,595

 

1,694

 

2.82

%

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

 

154,588

 

10

 

0.03

%  

 

50,522

 

251

 

1.97

%

Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions

 

1,794,652

 

626

 

0.14

%  

 

330,968

 

1,928

 

2.31

%

Securities borrowed

1,297,112

10,705

3.23

%  

1,565,608

21,010

5.25

%  

Other

 

49,701

 

823

 

6.59

%  

 

83,379

 

1,862

 

8.89

%

Interest-earning assets, gross (2)

 

15,776,196

 

130,147

 

3.26

%  

 

13,008,670

 

162,058

 

4.92

%

Allowance for credit losses

 

(156,071)

 

(55,710)

Interest-earning assets, net

 

15,620,125

 

12,952,960

Noninterest-earning assets

 

1,493,194

 

1,389,963

Total assets

$

17,113,319

$

14,342,923

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

Interest-bearing liabilities

Interest-bearing deposits

$

7,868,100

$

10,700

 

0.54

%  

$

5,943,901

$

18,887

 

1.26

%

Securities loaned

1,193,497

8,729

2.91

%  

1,448,345

17,889

4.90

%  

Notes payable and other borrowings

 

1,259,559

 

8,500

 

2.69

%  

 

1,605,598

 

11,968

 

2.94

%

Total interest-bearing liabilities

 

10,321,156

 

27,929

 

1.08

%  

 

8,997,844

 

48,744

 

2.15

%

Noninterest-bearing liabilities

Noninterest-bearing deposits

 

3,508,282

 

2,680,729

Other liabilities

 

903,571

 

611,337

Total liabilities

 

14,733,009

 

12,289,910

Stockholders’ equity

 

2,350,900

 

2,029,511

Noncontrolling interest

 

29,410

 

23,502

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$

17,113,319

$

14,342,923

Net interest income (2)

$

102,218

$

113,314

Net interest spread (2)

 

2.18

%  

 

2.77

%

Net interest margin (2)

 

2.57

%  

 

3.46

%

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Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

    

Average

    

Interest

    

Annualized

    

Average

    

Interest

    

Annualized

 

Outstanding

Earned or

Yield or

Outstanding

Earned or

Yield or

Balance

Paid

Rate

Balance

Paid

Rate

Assets

Interest-earning assets

Loans held for sale

$

2,153,565

$

55,775

 

3.45

%  

$

1,361,789

$

45,706

 

4.48

%

Loans held for investment, gross (1)

7,580,436

268,208

 

4.67

%  

7,030,961

299,069

 

5.63

%

Investment securities - taxable

 

1,818,953

 

40,112

 

2.94

%  

 

1,780,581

 

45,972

 

3.44

%

Investment securities - non-taxable (2)

 

222,818

 

5,729

 

3.43

%  

 

230,119

 

5,040

 

2.92

%

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

 

92,722

 

138

 

0.20

%  

 

62,021

 

1,008

 

2.17

%

Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions

 

1,277,130

 

2,679

 

0.28

%  

 

386,587

 

7,061

 

2.44

%

Securities borrowed

1,413,473

36,915

3.43

%  

1,537,131

53,386

4.58

Other

 

62,690

 

2,774

 

5.91

%  

 

71,292

 

5,215

 

9.77

%

Interest-earning assets, gross (2)

 

14,621,787

 

412,330

 

3.73

%  

 

12,460,481

 

462,457

 

4.92

%

Allowance for credit losses

 

(111,070)

 

(58,218)

Interest-earning assets, net

 

14,510,717

 

12,402,263

Noninterest-earning assets

 

1,576,485

 

1,407,649

Total assets

$

16,087,202

$

13,809,912

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

Interest-bearing liabilities

Interest-bearing deposits

$

7,354,534

$

37,771

 

0.69

%  

$

5,854,440

$

54,029

 

1.23

%

Securities loaned

1,316,032

30,802

3.13

%  

1,402,467

46,097

4.39

%

Notes payable and other borrowings

 

1,246,087

 

25,043

 

2.67

%  

 

1,355,420

 

31,907

 

3.13

%

Total interest-bearing liabilities

 

9,916,653

 

93,616

 

1.26

%  

 

8,612,327

 

132,033

 

2.05

%

Noninterest-bearing liabilities

Noninterest-bearing deposits

 

3,182,002

 

2,584,114

Other liabilities

 

732,530

 

595,419

Total liabilities

 

13,831,185

 

11,791,860

Stockholders’ equity

 

2,229,882

 

1,994,877

Noncontrolling interest

 

26,135

 

23,175

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$

16,087,202

$

13,809,912

Net interest income (2)

$

318,714

$

330,424

Net interest spread (2)

 

2.47

%  

 

2.87

%

Net interest margin (2)

 

2.90

%  

 

3.55

%

(1)Average balance includes non-accrual loans.
(2)Presented on a taxable equivalent basis with annualized taxable equivalent adjustments based on the applicable corporate federal income tax rate of 21% for the periods presented. The adjustment to interest income was $0.3 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $0.9 million and $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

The banking segment’s net interest margin exceeds our consolidated net interest margin shown above. Our consolidated net interest margin includes certain items that are not reflected in the calculation of our net interest margin within our banking segment and reduce our consolidated net interest margin, such as the borrowing costs of Hilltop and the yields and costs associated with certain items within interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities in the broker-dealer segment, including items related to securities financing operations that particularly decrease net interest margin. In addition, yields and costs on certain interest-earning assets, such as warehouse lines of credit extended to subsidiaries (operating segments) by the banking segment, are eliminated from the consolidated financial statements. Our consolidated net interest margins for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 were also negatively impacted by certain actions taken by management to strengthen our available liquidity position. Such actions, including increasing overall cash balances by raising brokered money market and brokered time deposits and raising capital through the issuance of subordinated debt, were taken out of an abundance of caution as the pandemic continues to create significant uncertainty in the banking and capital markets.

On a consolidated basis, net interest income decreased during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019, primarily due to decreases on interest earned on loans held for investment, interest incurred beginning in May 2020 related to the new Subordinated Notes at corporate and decreases in net interest earned on money markets and margin loans within the broker-dealer segment. Refer to the discussion in the “Banking Segment” section that follows for more details on the changes in net interest income, including the component changes in the volume of average interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and changes in the rates earned or paid on those items.

The provision for (reversal of) credit losses is determined by management as the amount necessary to maintain the allowance for credit losses at the amount of expected credit losses inherent within the loans held for investment portfolio. The amount of expense and the corresponding level of allowance for credit losses for loans are based on our evaluation of the collectability of the loan portfolio based on historical loss experience, reasonable and supportable

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forecasts, and other significant qualitative and quantitative factors. Substantially all of our consolidated provision for (reversal of) credit losses is related to the banking segment. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the provision for credit losses was significantly impacted by the banking segment’s build in reserves associated with the increase in the expected lifetime credit losses under CECL on both individually evaluated loans and collectively evaluated loans within the portfolio attributable to the market disruption and related economic uncertainties caused by COVID-19 through June 2020. Refer to the discussion in the “Financial Condition – Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans” section that follows for more details regarding the significant assumptions and estimates involved in estimating credit losses. During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, the provision for (reversal of) credit losses was impacted by the banking segment’s release during the first quarter of 2019 of a $2.0 million reserve associated with previously estimated hurricane loss exposures due to improved customer performance.

Noninterest income from continuing operations increased during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019, primarily due to increases in total mortgage loan sales volume, changes in net fair value and related derivative activity, and increases in average loan sales margin, partially offset by a decrease in average mortgage loan origination fees within our mortgage origination segment, as well as increases in structured finance net revenues with our broker-dealer segment.

Noninterest expense from continuing operations increased during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019, primarily due to increases in variable compensation and segment operating costs associated with the increased mortgage loan originations within our mortgage origination segment and increases in variable compensation within our broker-dealer segment.

Effective income tax rates from continuing operations during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were 22.7% and 21.9%, respectively, and for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, were 23.0% and 22.5%, respectively. The effective tax rates approximated statutory rates and include the effect of investments in tax-exempt instruments, offset by non-deductible expenses.

Segment Results from Continuing Operations

Banking Segment

The following table presents certain information about the operating results of our banking segment (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

    

Variance

Nine Months Ended September 30,

    

Variance

2020

2019

2020 vs 2019

2020

2019

2020 vs 2019

Net interest income

$

96,416

$

97,642

$

(1,226)

$

284,440

$

283,755

$

685

Provision for credit losses

 

 

 

 

99,875

 

355

 

99,520

Noninterest income

 

9,819

 

8,856

 

963

 

29,246

 

30,219

 

(973)

Noninterest expense

55,980

 

53,767

 

2,213

169,569

 

172,744

 

(3,175)

Income before income taxes

$

50,255

$

52,731

$

(2,476)

$

44,242

$

140,875

$

(96,633)

The decline in income before income taxes during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same period in 2019, was primarily due to the significant increase in the provision for credit losses associated with the adoption of CECL and the market disruption caused by COVID-19 during the first and second quarters of 2020. Changes to net interest income related to the component changes in the volume of average interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and changes in the rates earned or paid on those items are discussed in more detail below.

The information shown in the table below includes certain key indicators of the performance and asset quality of our banking segment.

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

2020

    

2019

    

2020

    

2019

Efficiency ratio (1)

 

52.69

%  

50.49

%  

54.06

%  

55.02

%

Return on average assets (2)

 

1.14

%  

1.51

%  

0.36

%  

1.43

%

Net interest margin (3)

3.03

%  

3.97

%  

3.28

%  

4.08

%

Net recoveries (charge-offs) to average loans outstanding (4)

(0.03)

%  

0.02

%  

(0.35)

%

(0.09)

%

(1)Efficiency ratio is defined as noninterest expenses divided by the sum of total noninterest income and net interest income for the period. We consider the efficiency ratio to be a measure of the banking segment’s profitability.

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(2)Return of average assets ratio is defined as net income divided by average assets.
(3)Net interest margin is defined as net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets. We consider net interest margin as a key indicator of profitability, as it represents interest earned on interest-earning assets compared to interest incurred.
(4)Net recoveries (charge-offs) to average loans outstanding is defined as the greater of recoveries or charge-offs during the reported period minus recoveries or charge-offs divided by average loans outstanding. We use the ratio to measure the credit performance of our loan portfolio.

The banking segment presents net interest margin and net interest income in the following discussion and tables below on a taxable equivalent basis. Net interest margin (taxable equivalent), a non-GAAP measure, is defined as taxable equivalent net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets. Taxable equivalent adjustments are based on the applicable corporate federal income tax rate of 21% for all periods presented. The interest income earned on certain earning assets is completely or partially exempt from federal income tax. As such, these tax-exempt instruments typically yield lower returns than taxable investments. To provide more meaningful comparisons of net interest margins for all earning assets, we use net interest income on a taxable equivalent basis in calculating net interest margin by increasing the interest income earned on tax-exempt assets to make it fully equivalent to interest income earned on taxable investments.

During the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, purchase accounting contributed 13 and 35 basis points, respectively, to the banking segment’s taxable equivalent net interest margin of 3.03% and 3.98%, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, purchase accounting contributed 17 and 37 basis points, respectively, to the banking segment’s taxable equivalent net interest margin of 3.29% and 4.09%, respectively. These purchase accounting items are associated with the Bank Transactions as detailed in the tables previously presented in the Consolidated Operating Results section.

The tables below provide additional details regarding our banking segment’s net interest income (dollars in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

    

Average

  

Interest

    

Annualized

    

Average

   

Interest

    

Annualized

 

Outstanding

Earned or

Yield or

Outstanding

Earned or

Yield or

Balance

Paid

Rate

Balance

Paid

Rate

Assets

Interest-earning assets

Loans held for investment, gross (1)

$

7,287,758

$

81,216

 

4.39

%  

$

6,611,749

$

94,087

 

5.60

Subsidiary warehouse lines of credit

 

2,188,068

 

20,977

 

3.75

%  

 

1,591,926

 

18,282

 

4.49

Investment securities - taxable

 

1,451,049

 

7,170

 

1.98

%  

 

1,210,813

 

7,613

 

2.51

Investment securities - non-taxable (2)

 

112,113

 

960

 

3.43

%  

 

93,574

 

799

 

3.42

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

 

400

 

 

0.06

%  

 

460

 

 

0.24

Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions

 

1,561,910

 

396

 

0.10

%  

 

172,373

 

950

 

2.19

Other

 

36,676

 

42

 

0.46

%  

 

63,659

 

703

 

4.42

Interest-earning assets, gross (2)

 

12,637,974

 

110,761

 

3.45

%  

 

9,744,554

 

122,434

 

4.95

Allowance for credit losses

 

(155,531)

 

(55,565)

Interest-earning assets, net

 

12,482,443

 

9,688,989

Noninterest-earning assets

 

1,049,072

 

949,816

Total assets

$

13,531,515

$

10,638,805

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

Interest-bearing liabilities

Interest-bearing deposits

$

7,878,593

$

13,723

 

0.69

%  

$

5,682,456

$

20,963

 

1.46

Notes payable and other borrowings

 

166,687

 

425

 

1.01

%  

 

646,286

 

3,679

 

2.23

Total interest-bearing liabilities

 

8,045,280

 

14,148

 

0.70

%  

 

6,328,742

 

24,642

 

1.54

Noninterest-bearing liabilities

Noninterest-bearing deposits

 

3,682,422

 

2,681,915

Other liabilities

 

144,439

 

102,976

Total liabilities

 

11,872,141

 

9,113,633

Stockholders’ equity

 

1,659,374

 

1,525,172

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$

13,531,515

$

10,638,805

Net interest income (2)

$

96,613

$

97,792

Net interest spread (2)

 

2.75

%  

 

3.40

Net interest margin (2)

 

3.03

%  

 

3.98

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Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

    

Average

    

Interest

    

Annualized

    

Average

    

Interest

    

Annualized

 

Outstanding

Earned or

Yield or

Outstanding

Earned or

Yield or

Balance

Paid

Rate

Balance

Paid

Rate

Assets

Interest-earning assets

Loans held for investment, gross (1)

$

7,107,779

$

254,553

 

4.72

%  

$

6,512,444

$

277,708

 

5.64

Subsidiary warehouse lines of credit

 

1,922,809

 

55,309

 

3.78

%  

 

1,238,650

 

43,431

 

4.62

Investment securities - taxable

 

1,303,455

 

21,249

 

2.17

%  

 

1,170,534

 

22,356

 

2.55

Investment securities - non-taxable (2)

 

111,158

 

2,837

 

3.40

%  

 

94,773

 

2,424

 

3.41

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

 

454

 

1

 

0.18

%  

 

444

 

1

 

0.18

Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions

 

1,066,096

 

1,642

 

0.21

%  

 

218,231

 

3,868

 

2.37

Other

 

45,065

 

293

 

0.87

%  

 

51,326

 

1,856

 

4.82

Interest-earning assets, gross (2)

 

11,556,816

 

335,884

 

3.84

%  

 

9,286,402

 

351,644

 

5.01

Allowance for credit losses

 

(110,729)

 

(58,099)

Interest-earning assets, net

 

11,446,087

 

9,228,303

Noninterest-earning assets

 

987,269

 

942,364

Total assets

$

12,433,356

$

10,170,667

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

Interest-bearing liabilities

Interest-bearing deposits

$

7,237,043

$

48,624

 

0.90

%  

$

5,577,755

$

59,897

 

1.44

Notes payable and other borrowings

 

221,177

 

2,249

 

1.34

%  

 

441,910

 

7,530

 

2.25

Total interest-bearing liabilities

 

7,458,220

 

50,873

 

0.91

%  

 

6,019,665

 

67,427

 

1.50

Noninterest-bearing liabilities

Noninterest-bearing deposits

 

3,252,584

 

2,563,305

Other liabilities

 

122,908

 

90,067

Total liabilities

 

10,833,712

 

8,673,037

Stockholders’ equity

 

1,599,644

 

1,497,630

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$

12,433,356

$

10,170,667

Net interest income (2)

$

285,011

$

284,217

Net interest spread (2)

 

2.93

%  

 

3.51

Net interest margin (2)

 

3.29

%  

 

4.09

(1)Average balance includes non-accrual loans.
(2)Presented on a taxable equivalent basis with annualized taxable equivalent adjustments based on the applicable corporate federal income tax rate of 21% for the periods presented. The adjustments to interest income were $0.2 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $0.6 million and $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019.

The banking segment’s net interest margin exceeds our consolidated net interest margin. Our consolidated net interest margin includes certain items that are not reflected in the calculation of our net interest margin within our banking segment and reduce our consolidated net interest margin, such as the borrowing costs of Hilltop and the yields and costs associated with certain items within interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities in the broker-dealer segment, including items related to securities financing operations that particularly decrease net interest margin. In addition, the banking segment’s interest-earning assets include warehouse lines of credit extended to other subsidiaries (operating segments), which are eliminated from the consolidated financial statements. The banking segment’s net interest margins for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 were also negatively impacted by certain actions taken by management to strengthen the Bank’s available liquidity position. Such actions, including increasing overall cash balances by raising brokered money market and brokered time deposits and raising capital through the issuance of subordinated debt, were taken out of an abundance of caution as the pandemic continues to create significant uncertainty in the banking and capital markets.

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The following table summarizes the changes in the banking segment’s net interest income for the periods indicated below, including the component changes in the volume of average interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and changes in the rates earned or paid on those items (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

2020 vs. 2019

2020 vs. 2019

 

Change Due To (1)

Change Due To (1)

 

   

Volume

   

Yield/Rate

   

Change

   

Volume

   

Yield/Rate

   

Change

 

Interest income

Loans held for investment, gross

$

9,542

$

(22,413)

$

(12,871)

$

8,463

$

(31,618)

$

(23,155)

Subsidiary warehouse lines of credit

 

6,752

 

(4,057)

 

2,695

 

7,973

 

3,905

 

11,878

Investment securities - taxable

 

1,523

 

(1,966)

 

(443)

 

853

 

(1,960)

 

(1,107)

Investment securities - non-taxable (2)

 

160

 

1

 

161

 

141

 

272

 

413

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions

 

7,658

 

(8,212)

 

(554)

 

5,064

 

(7,290)

 

(2,226)

Other

 

(300)

 

(361)

 

(661)

 

(76)

 

(1,487)

 

(1,563)

Total interest income (2)

 

25,335

(37,008)

(11,673)

22,418

(38,178)

(15,760)

Interest expense

Deposits

$

8,102

$

(15,342)

$

(7,240)

$

6,005

$

(17,278)

$

(11,273)

Notes payable and other borrowings

 

(2,694)

 

(560)

 

(3,254)

 

(1,251)

 

(4,030)

 

(5,281)

Total interest expense

 

5,408

 

(15,902)

 

(10,494)

 

4,754

 

(21,308)

 

(16,554)

Net interest income (2)

$

19,927

$

(21,106)

$

(1,179)

$

17,664

$

(16,870)

$

794

(1)Changes attributable to both volume and yield/rate are included in yield/rate column.
(2)Annualized taxable equivalent.

Changes in the yields earned on interest-earning assets decreased taxable equivalent net interest income during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same periods in 2019, primarily as a result of lower loan yields due to decreased market rates, the addition of 1% note rate PPP loans, and the decrease in accretion of discount on loans of $4.5 million and $9.8 million, respectively. Accretion of discount on loans is expected to continue to decrease in future periods as loans acquired in the Bank Transactions are repaid, refinanced or renewed. Changes in the volume of interest-earning assets, primarily due to seasonal increases in mortgage warehouse lending volume and new PPP loan originations, increased taxable equivalent net interest income during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019. Changes in rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities increased taxable equivalent net interest income during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019, due to decreases in market interest rates. Our portfolio includes loans that periodically reprice or mature prior to the end of an amortized term. Some of our variable-rate loans remain at applicable rate floors, which may delay and/or limit changes in interest income during a period of changing rates. If interest rates were to fall further, the impact on our net interest income for certain variable-rate loans would be limited by these rate floors. In addition, declining interest rates may reduce our cost of funds on deposits. The extent of this impact will ultimately be driven by the timing, magnitude and frequency of interest rate and yield curve movements, as well as changes in market conditions and timing of management strategies. If interest rates were to rise, yields on the portion of our loan portfolio that remain at applicable rate floors would rise more slowly than increases in market interest rates. Any changes in interest rates across the term structure will continue to impact net interest income and net interest margin. The impact of rate movements will change with the shape of the yield curve, including any changes in steepness or flatness and inversions at any points on the yield curve.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bank implemented several actions to better support our impacted banking clients. Such programs include loan modifications such as principal and/or interest payment deferrals, participation in the PPP as an SBA preferred lender and personal banking assistance including waived fees, increased daily spending limits and suspension of residential foreclosure activities. The extent to which these measures will impact the Bank is uncertain. The adverse economic conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have had and can be expected to continue to have a significant adverse effect on the banking segment’s business and results of operations, including significantly reduced demand for loan products and services from customers, deposit balance attrition, possible

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recognition of credit losses and increases in allowance for credit losses, especially if businesses remain limited in their operating capacity, unemployment remains elevated and customers draw on their lines of credit or seek additional loans to help finance their businesses, and possible constraints on liquidity and capital, whether due to increases in risk-weighted assets related to supporting customer activities or to regulatory actions. In the event future operating performance is below our projections, there are negative changes to projected provision for credit losses on loans, long-term loan and deposit growth rates or discount rates increase, the fair value of the banking reporting unit may decline, and we may be required to record a goodwill impairment charge. Additionally, with regards to its core deposit intangible assets, in the event that the deposit retention levels and derived cost savings from available core deposits at the Bank relative to an alternative cost of funds falls to a level that cannot support the remaining carrying value, we may be required to record an impairment charge. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affects the banking segment’s business, results of operations and financial condition, as well as its regulatory capital and liquidity ratios, will depend on future developments that are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including the scope and duration of the pandemic and actions taken by governmental authorities and other third parties in response to the pandemic, as discussed in more detail in the “Recent Developments” section above.

During the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, the banking segment retained approximately $12.8 million and $27.9 million, respectively, in mortgage loans originated by the mortgage origination segment. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, the banking segment retained approximately $155.3 million and $47.8 million, respectively, in mortgage loans originated by the mortgage origination segment. These loans are purchased by the banking segment at par. For origination services provided, the banking segment reimburses the mortgage origination segment for direct origination costs associated with these mortgage loans, in addition to payment of a correspondent fee. The correspondent fees are eliminated in consolidation. In March 2020, the Bank made a decision to sell the previously purchased mortgage loans to the mortgage origination segment, instead of holding them for investment. The determination of mortgage loan retention levels by the banking segment will be impacted by, among other things, an ongoing review of the prevailing mortgage rates, balance sheet positioning at Hilltop and the banking segment’s outlook for commercial loan growth.

The banking segment’s provision for credit losses during the three months ended September 30, 2020 included a net reversal of credit losses on individually evaluated loans of $1.2 million, while the provision for credit losses on expected losses of collectively evaluated loans accounted for $0.6 million of the total provision primarily due to the identified changes in the Bank’s loan portfolio composition and credit quality being offset by improvements in macroeconomic factor assumptions and qualitative factors from the prior quarter. The change in the allowance during the three months ended September 30, 2020 was also impacted by net charge-offs of $0.6 million. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the significant build in the allowance included provision for credit losses on individually evaluated loans of $22.6 million, while the provision for credit losses on expected losses of collectively evaluated loans accounted for $77.2 million of the total provision primarily due to the increase in the expected lifetime credit losses under CECL attributable to the deteriorating economic outlook associated with the impact of the market disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The changes in provision for credit losses during the noted periods were also attributable to other factors including, but not limited to, loan growth, loan mix and changes in risk rating grades. The change in the allowance during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was also impacted by net charge-offs of $18.5 million, primarily associated with loans specifically reserved for during the first quarter of 2020. Refer to the discussion in the “Financial Condition – Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans” section that follows for more details regarding the significant assumptions and estimates involved in estimating credit losses.

The banking segment’s noninterest income was relatively flat during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same periods in 2019, and included sales activity in the available-for-sale investment portfolio during the third quarter of 2020 as well as changes in our intercompany financing charges and service charge relief provided to consumers in response to COVID-19 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020.

The banking segment’s noninterest expenses increased during the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same period in 2019, primarily due to an increase in FDIC assessment expenses due to a small bank credit received in 2019 and prepayment expenses associated with the early payoff of FHLB notes. Noninterest expenses decreased during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same period in 2019, primarily due to a reduction in legal, business development and other operating expenses, as well as an increase in gain on sale of OREO properties, partially offset by an increase in the reserve for unfunded commitments.

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Broker-Dealer Segment

The following table provides additional detail regarding our broker-dealer segment operating results (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Variance

Nine Months Ended September 30,

Variance

    

2020

    

2019

    

2020 vs 2019

2020

    

2019

    

2020 vs 2019

Net interest income:

Wealth management:

Securities lending

$

1,976

$

3,121

$

(1,145)

$

6,113

$

7,289

$

(1,176)

Clearing services

1,150

3,034

(1,884)

5,720

8,770

(3,050)

Structured finance (5)

298

1,421

(1,123)

4,346

5,046

(700)

Fixed income services (5)

3,223

1,577

1,646

8,906

3,728

5,178

Other (5)

1,521

4,571

(3,050)

5,920

13,151

(7,231)

Total net interest income

8,168

13,724

(5,556)

31,005

37,984

(6,979)

Noninterest income:

Securities commissions and fees by business line (1):

Fixed income services (5)

10,961

8,463

2,498

36,734

27,826

8,908

Wealth management:

Retail

16,332

19,092

(2,760)

53,890

55,948

(2,058)

Clearing services

6,478

8,494

(2,016)

23,443

25,763

(2,320)

Other (5)

1,584

1,260

324

3,642

3,575

67

35,355

37,309

(1,954)

117,709

113,112

4,597

Investment and securities advisory fees and commissions by business line:

Public finance services (5)

23,158

19,058

4,100

55,951

47,263

8,688

Fixed income services

5,463

2,768

2,695

9,958

5,663

4,295

Wealth management:

Retail

6,193

5,487

706

17,237

15,190

2,047

Clearing services

431

330

101

1,140

925

215

Structured finance (5)

1,527

1,011

516

4,617

2,579

2,038

Other

94

31

63

263

84

179

36,866

28,685

8,181

89,166

71,704

17,462

Other:

Structured finance

59,669

31,100

28,569

112,117

92,647

19,470

Fixed income services

8,404

10,634

(2,230)

30,586

26,198

4,388

Other

728

14

714

614

946

(332)

68,801

41,748

27,053

143,317

119,791

23,526

Total noninterest income

141,022

107,742

33,280

350,192

304,607

45,585

Net revenue (2)

149,190

121,466

27,724

381,197

342,591

38,606

Noninterest expense:

Variable compensation (3)

60,774

44,921

15,853

145,169

124,335

20,834

Non-variable compensation and benefits

27,289

25,033

2,256

79,141

79,027

114

Segment operating costs (4)

25,728

24,504

1,224

75,531

73,697

1,834

Total noninterest expense

113,791

94,458

19,333

299,841

277,059

22,782

Income before income taxes

$

35,399

$

27,008

$

8,391

$

81,356

$

65,532

$

15,824

(1)Securities commissions and fees includes income of $2.9 million during both the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $10.9 million and $8.6 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, that is eliminated in consolidation.
(2)Net revenue is defined as the sum of total net interest income and total noninterest income. We consider net revenue to be a key performance measure in the evaluation of the broker-dealer segment’s financial position and operating performance as it is the primary revenue performance measure used by investors and analysts. Net revenue provides for some level of comparability of trends across the financial services industry as it reflects both noninterest income, including investment and securities advisory fees and commissions, as well as net interest income. Internally, we assess the broker-dealer segment’s performance on a revenue basis for comparability with our banking segment.
(3)Variable compensation represents performance-based commissions and incentives.
(4)Segment operating costs include provision for credit losses associated with the broker-dealer segment.
(5)Noted balances during all prior periods include certain reclassifications to conform to current period presentation.

During the three months ended September 30, 2020, the broker-dealer’s public finance services business line experienced improved results in line with a modest improvement in both Texas and national issuance activity and market share compared to the same period during the prior year, despite the economic disruptions related to the pandemic. The structured finance business line experienced robust results given strong issuance volumes and improved demand for mortgage products following market volatility in the first quarter of 2020. Structuring activity results also improved as demand for structured agency products rebounded in the second and third quarters of 2020. Additionally, in both the second and third quarters of 2020, the fixed income services business line demonstrated improved operating results. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, transactional revenues in the fixed income business line improved compared with the same periods in 2019 as we experienced relative strength in municipal and taxable products. The wealth management business line’s net revenues were lower in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same periods in 2019, as transactional revenues declined following the volatile markets experienced in the first quarter of 2020 and customer balance revenues were driven lower due to the current low interest rate environment. Additional information related to the impact of COVID-19 is included within the “Recent Developments” section above.

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The specific components of the overall increase in the broker-dealer segment’s income before income taxes during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019, was primarily as a result of the following:

a $4.6 million and $22.8 million, respectively, increase in net revenue in our fixed income services business line due to strong performances in our municipal and taxable products, which noted significant increases beginning in March 2020 through September 2020. Improved client demand combined with active position management and effective hedging tools led to improved municipal revenue;
an $18.1 million and $20.9 million increase, respectively, in compensation expense, of which $15.9 million and $20.8 million, respectively, was due to the increase in variable compensation, primarily resulting from an increase in the trading gains earned from our derivative and trading portfolio activities in our structured finance business. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the increase in compensation expense was partially offset by the costs associated with 2019 Leadership Changes as discussed in “Factors Affecting Results of Operations” of $2.2 million in compensation expense;
a $7.2 million and $6.9 million decrease, respectively, in net revenue in our wealth management business line, which experienced lower transactional revenues in the second and third quarters of 2020 combined with lower customer balance revenues as a result of the low interest rate environment. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the decrease in the wealth management business line’s net revenues, discussed above, were partially offset by the activity in the first quarter of 2020 from improved transactional revenues and record management fees, due to peak asset valuations in managed accounts, as well as the significant re-allocation of customer assets into cash and cash equivalents as clients exited risk markets; and
a $27.9 million and $20.8 million increase, respectively, in the broker-dealer segment’s structured finance net revenues. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, activity in the month of March 2020 was weaker on the structuring side of the TBA business, as demand for structured agency products declined. After March 2020, structured finance revenues improved in line with increased volumes reflecting robust activity in mortgage originations combined with improved product demand from the buy-side, resulting in an overall $16.8 million increase in gains from sales of the mortgage-backed securities for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. The momentum gained in the second quarter continued into the third quarter of 2020, resulting in a $23.4 million increase in gains from sales of mortgage-backed securities compared to the same period in 2019.

The broker-dealer segment is subject to interest rate risk as a consequence of maintaining inventory positions, trading in interest rate sensitive financial instruments and maintaining a matched stock loan book. Changes in interest rates are likely to have a meaningful impact on our overall financial performance. Our broker-dealer segment has historically earned a significant portion of its revenues from advisory fees upon the successful completion of client transactions. Rapid or significant changes in interest rates could adversely affect the broker-dealer segment’s bond trading, sales, underwriting activities and other interest spread-sensitive activities described below. The broker-dealer segment also receives administrative fees for providing money market and FDIC investment alternatives to clients, which tend to be sensitive to short term interest rates. In addition, the profitability of the broker-dealer segment depends, to an extent, on the spread between revenues earned on customer loans and excess customer cash balances, and the interest expense paid on customer cash balances, as well as the interest revenue earned on trading securities, net of financing costs.

In the broker-dealer segment, interest is earned from securities lending activities, interest charged on customer margin loan balances and interest earned on investment securities used to support sales, underwriting and other customer activities. Net interest income decreased between the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, and the comparable periods in 2019, primarily due to decreases in net interest earned in the stock lending business, customer margin loans and other customer activities. The net decreases in interest earned during both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 were partially offset by the net interest earned from the broker-dealer’s taxable securities.

Noninterest income increased between the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, and the comparable periods in 2019, primarily due to increases in investment banking and advisory fees and commissions and other noninterest income, partially offset by decreases in securities commissions and fees for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and increases in all noninterest income captions for the nine months ended September 30, 2020.

Securities commissions and fees decreased during the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same period in 2019, primarily due to decreases in our wealth management business line attributable to lower customer

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transaction revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2020. These decreases were partially offset by increases in commissions earned on municipal bonds, over-the-counter securities and mortgage back securities transactions in our fixed income services business line. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, securities commissions and fees increased compared with the same period in 2019, primarily due to the increases in commissions earned in our fixed income services line of business offset by the decreases in commissions earned by our wealth management business line from lower customer transaction revenues. Additionally, for both comparable three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2020, the broker-dealer noted a decline in money market and FDIC sweep revenues, primarily in the wealth management business line.

Investment and securities advisory fees and commissions increased during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019, primarily due to increases in municipal advisory and underwriting transactions.

Other noninterest income increased during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019. The increases during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 were primarily the result of a $28.6 million and $19.5 million increase, respectively, in trading gains earned from our structured finance business line’s derivative activities due to a stabilization from strong volumes and adjustments made in the business line from heightened market volatility in the first quarter. The increase for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was partially offset by a $2.2 million decrease in the fixed income services business line’s trading portfolio activities, primarily in our securitized mortgage backed securities portfolio. Additionally, other interest income within our fixed income services business line increased $4.4 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 compared with the same period in 2019 associated with both our taxable and municipal securities trading portfolio activities, partially offset by a decrease in our securitized mortgage-backed securities portfolio.

Noninterest expenses increased during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same periods in 2019, primarily due to increases in variable compensation partially offset, for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, by the $2.2 million in pre-tax costs in the first quarter of 2019 associated with the Leadership Changes as discussed in the “Factors Affecting Results of Operations” section above. Other noninterest expenses increased during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same period in 2019, primarily due to deployment of a new back-office system on June 1, 2020.

Selected information concerning the broker-dealer segment, including key performance indicators, follows (dollars in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

    

2019

    

2020

    

2019

Total compensation as a % of net revenue (1)

59.0

%

57.6

%

58.8

%

59.4

%

Pre-tax margin (2)

21.3

%

19.1

%

FDIC insured program balances at the Bank (end of period)

$

900,008

$

1,308,226

Other FDIC insured program balances (end of period)

$

1,683,981

$

692,004

Customer funds on deposit, including short credits (end of period)

$

419,078

$

318,528

Public finance services:

Number of issues

340

308

936

871

Aggregate amount of offerings

$

15,174,488

$

14,041,781

$

41,352,113

$

40,167,405

Structured finance:

Lock production/TBA volume

$

2,662,729

$

1,555,727

$

6,687,631

$

4,354,538

Fixed income services:

Total volumes

$

52,496,966

$

22,623,984

$

105,941,044

$

65,226,806

Net inventory (end of period)

$

610,641

$

645,576

Wealth management (Retail and Clearing services groups):

Retail employee representatives (end of period)

123

125

Independent registered representatives (end of period)

193

200

Correspondents (end of period)

130

147

Correspondent receivables (end of period)

$

243,480

$

218,075

Customer margin balances (end of period)

$

268,542

$

339,686

Wealth management (Securities lending group):

Interest-earning assets - stock borrowed (end of period)

$

1,285,509

$

1,636,795

Interest-bearing liabilities - stock loaned (end of period)

$

1,177,098

$

1,505,118

(1)Total compensation includes the sum of non-variable compensation and benefits and variable compensation. We consider total compensation as a percentage of net revenue to be a key performance measure and indicator of segment profitability.
(2)Pre-tax margin is defined as income before income taxes divided by net revenue. We consider pre-tax margin to be a key performance measure given its use as a profitability metric representing the percentage of net revenue earned that results in a profit.

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Mortgage Origination Segment

The following table presents certain information regarding the operating results of our mortgage origination segment (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

    

Variance

Nine Months Ended September 30,

    

Variance

2020

2019

2020 vs 2019

2020

2019

2020 vs 2019

Net interest income (expense)

$

(2,349)

$

(2,725)

$

376

$

(3,647)

$

(4,224)

$

577

Noninterest income

 

355,471

 

194,857

 

160,614

 

874,926

 

477,438

 

397,488

Noninterest expense

207,176

 

160,634

 

46,542

547,222

 

417,032

 

130,190

Income before income taxes

$

145,946

$

31,498

$

114,448

$

324,057

$

56,182

$

267,875

The mortgage lending business is subject to variables that can impact loan origination volume, including seasonal transaction volumes and interest rate fluctuations. Historically, the mortgage origination segment has experienced increased loan origination volume from purchases of homes during the spring and summer months, when more people tend to move and buy or sell homes. An increase in mortgage interest rates tends to result in decreased loan origination volume from refinancings, while a decrease in mortgage interest rates tends to result in increased loan origination volume from refinancings. Changes in mortgage interest rates have historically had a lesser impact on home purchase volume than on refinancing volume. As discussed in more detail in the “Recent Developments” section above, and as a result of the spread of COVID-19, economic uncertainties continue to have disruptive effects in locations in which the mortgage origination segment operates and the global economy more widely, as well as causing increased volatility and declines in financial markets. Loan origination volume during both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, increased significantly compared to the same periods in 2019, as mortgage interest rates have continued to decline since the end of 2019. This trend, as well as typical historical patterns in loan origination volume from purchases of homes or from refinancings as a result of movements in mortgage interest rates, may not be indicative of future loan origination volumes given the economic uncertainties stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The mortgage origination segment’s business is dependent upon the willingness and ability of its employees and customers to conduct mortgage transactions. The COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on such customers could have a material adverse effect on the operations of the mortgage origination segment.

Income before income taxes increased $114.5 million, or 363.4%, during the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same period in 2019. Income before income taxes increased $267.9 million, or 476.8%, during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same period in 2019. These increases were primarily the result of a significant increase in interest rate lock commitments (“IRLCs”) related to substantial increases in mortgage loan applications. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, during the first quarter of 2020, the FOMC reduced short-term rates by 150 basis points to a range of 0% to 0.25%. Further, 10-year interest rates also declined significantly during the first quarter 2020, which led to an accelerated decrease in mortgage interest rates since that time.

The CARES Act provides borrowers the ability to request forbearance of residential mortgage loan payments, placing a significant strain on mortgage servicers as they may be required to fund missed or deferred payments related to loans in forbearance. A significant increase in nationwide forbearance requests has resulted in the reduction of third-party mortgage servicers willing to purchase mortgage servicing rights. As a result of this market dynamic, beginning in the second quarter 2020, we increased the amount of retained servicing on mortgage loan sales. During both the second and third quarters of 2020, PrimeLending retained servicing on 89% of total mortgage loans sold. We expect that PrimeLending will retain servicing on approximately 50% to 75% of its mortgage loan sales during the remainder of 2020. PrimeLending utilizes a third party to manage its servicing portfolio and we therefore do not expect to incur additional infrastructure costs to manage an increase in PrimeLending’s servicing portfolio. PrimeLending’s liquidity has not been, and we do not expect that it will be, significantly impacted by the anticipated increase in forbearance requests. In addition, GNMA, Federal National Mortgage Association and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation have imposed certain restrictions on loans the agencies will accept under a forbearance agreement, which could result in PrimeLending seeking non-agency investors or choosing to retain these loans.

As average mortgage interest rates decreased between the three months ended September 30, 2020 and the comparable period in 2019, refinancing volume as a percentage of total origination volume increased from 29.2% to 35.1%. As average mortgage interest rates decreased between the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and the comparable period in 2019, refinancing volume as a percentage of total origination volume increased from 21.6% to 39.8%. See details regarding refinancing volume in the table below. If current mortgage interest rates remain relatively unchanged, we anticipate a higher percentage of refinancing volumes relative to total loan origination volume for the remainder of 2020 as compared to the same period in 2019. A higher refinance percentage could also be driven by a slowing of

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purchase volume due to the negative impact on new and existing home sales resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. While PrimeLending experienced an increase in purchase volume as a percentage of total loan origination volume between the second and third quarters of 2020, we are uncertain whether this will continue.

The mortgage origination segment primarily originates its mortgage loans through a retail channel, with limited lending through its affiliated business arrangements (“ABAs”). For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, funded volume through ABAs was approximately 8% of the mortgage origination segment’s total loan volume. As of September 30, 2020, PrimeLending owned a 51% membership interest in four ABAs. On October 1, 2020, the mortgage origination segment divested its interest in one of its ABAs. We expect production within the ABA channel will decrease slightly to approximately 7% of the total loan volume of the mortgage origination segment during the remainder of 2020.

The following table provides certain details regarding our mortgage loan originations and selected information for the periods indicated below (dollars in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

2020

2019

 

   

   

% of

    

   

   

% of

 

Variance

    

   

  

% of

    

   

    

% of

 

Variance

Amount

Total

Amount

Total

 

2020 vs 2019

Amount

Total

Amount

Total

2020 vs 2019

Mortgage Loan Originations - units

 

23,673

18,251

5,422

 

59,802

44,289

15,513

Mortgage Loan Originations - volume

$

6,450,353

$

4,771,801

$

1,678,552

$

16,172,000

$

11,178,932

$

4,993,068

Mortgage Loan Originations:

Conventional

$

4,844,635

 

75.11

%  

$

2,957,245

 

61.97

%  

$

1,887,390

$

11,426,726

 

70.66

%  

$

6,836,395

 

61.15

%

$

4,590,331

Government

 

1,225,055

 

18.99

%  

 

1,157,693

 

24.26

%  

 

67,362

 

3,547,353

 

21.94

%  

 

2,732,608

 

24.44

%

 

814,745

Jumbo

 

189,518

 

2.94

%  

 

402,091

 

8.43

%  

 

(212,573)

 

650,992

 

4.03

%  

 

931,938

 

8.34

%

 

(280,946)

Other

 

191,145

 

2.96

%  

 

254,772

 

5.34

%  

 

(63,627)

 

546,929

 

3.37

%  

 

677,991

 

6.07

%

 

(131,062)

$

6,450,353

 

100.00

%  

$

4,771,801

 

100.00

%  

$

1,678,552

$

16,172,000

 

100.00

%  

$

11,178,932

 

100.00

%

$

4,993,068

Home purchases

$

4,183,560

 

64.86

%  

$

3,380,812

 

70.85

%  

$

802,748

$

9,729,981

 

60.17

%  

$

8,760,596

 

78.37

%

$

969,385

Refinancings

 

2,266,793

 

35.14

%  

 

1,390,989

 

29.15

%  

 

875,804

 

6,442,019

 

39.83

%  

 

2,418,336

 

21.63

%

 

4,023,683

$

6,450,353

 

100.00

%  

$

4,771,801

 

100.00

%  

$

1,678,552

$

16,172,000

 

100.00

%  

$

11,178,932

 

100.00

%

$

4,993,068

Texas

$

1,223,544

 

18.97

%  

$

894,846

 

18.75

%  

$

328,698

$

3,078,700

 

19.04

%  

$

2,122,314

 

18.98

%

$

956,386

California

 

640,081

 

9.92

%  

 

487,579

 

10.22

%  

 

152,502

 

1,656,438

 

10.24

%  

 

1,101,699

 

9.86

%

 

554,739

Florida

 

419,537

 

6.50

%  

 

315,523

 

6.61

%  

 

104,014

 

1,123,061

 

6.94

%  

 

801,560

 

7.17

%

 

321,501

Arizona

 

278,065

 

4.31

%  

 

210,296

 

4.41

%  

 

67,769

 

729,920

 

4.51

%  

 

499,755

 

4.47

%

 

230,165

South Carolina

 

257,531

 

3.99

%  

 

180,493

 

3.78

%  

 

77,038

 

654,840

 

4.05

%  

 

430,824

 

3.85

%

 

224,016

Ohio

 

255,388

 

3.96

%  

 

187,400

 

3.93

%  

 

67,988

 

617,369

 

3.82

%  

 

465,517

 

4.16

%

 

151,852

Maryland

 

229,705

 

3.56

%  

 

140,694

 

2.95

%  

 

89,011

 

580,487

 

3.59

%  

 

349,043

 

3.12

%

 

231,444

Missouri

 

232,253

 

3.60

%  

 

166,004

 

3.48

%  

 

66,249

 

557,772

 

3.45

%  

 

376,065

 

3.36

%

 

181,707

Washington

 

199,425

 

3.09

%  

 

199,883

 

4.19

%  

 

(458)

 

505,782

 

3.13

%  

 

444,888

 

3.98

%

 

60,894

North Carolina

 

186,522

 

2.89

%  

 

151,089

 

3.17

%  

 

35,433

 

493,161

 

3.05

%  

 

352,928

 

3.16

%

 

140,233

All other states

 

2,528,302

 

39.21

%  

 

1,837,994

 

38.51

%  

 

690,308

 

6,174,470

 

38.18

%  

 

4,234,339

 

37.89

%

 

1,940,131

$

6,450,353

 

100.00

%  

$

4,771,801

 

100.00

%  

$

1,678,552

$

16,172,000

 

100.00

%  

$

11,178,932

 

100.00

%

$

4,993,068

Mortgage Loan Sales - volume:

External third parties

$

6,508,983

99.80

%  

$

4,288,205

99.35

%  

$

2,220,778

$

15,787,591

 

99.03

%  

$

10,317,490

 

99.54

%

$

5,470,101

Banking segment

 

12,790

0.20

%  

 

27,913

0.65

%  

 

(15,123)

 

155,345

 

0.97

%  

 

47,812

 

0.46

%

 

107,533

$

6,521,773

100.00

%  

$

4,316,118

100.00

%  

$

2,205,655

$

15,942,936

 

100.00

%  

$

10,365,302

 

100.00

%

$

5,577,634

We consider the mortgage origination segment’s total loan origination volume to be a key performance measure. Loan origination volume is central to the segment’s ability to generate income by originating and selling mortgage loans, resulting in net gains from the sale of loans, other mortgage production income and mortgage loan origination fees. Total loan origination volume is a measure utilized by management, our investors and analysts in assessing market share and growth of the mortgage origination segment.

The mortgage origination segment’s total loan origination volume during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 increased 35.2% and 44.7%, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2019. Income before income taxes during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 increased 363.4% and 476.8%, respectively, compared to

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the same periods in 2019. The increase in income before income taxes during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same periods in 2019, were primarily due to increases in net gains on sale of loans, the change in net fair value and related derivative activity of IRLCs and loans held for sale, and mortgage loan origination fees and other related income. These changes were partially offset by an increase in variable compensation that varies with the volume of mortgage loan originations (“variable compensation”).

Net interest expense during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 was primarily comprised of interest earned on loans held for sale offset by interest incurred on warehouse lines of credit held with the Bank, as well as related intercompany financing costs. The primary reasons for the decrease in net interest expense during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 were a decrease in intercompany financing costs and an increase in the average balance of loans held for sale, partially offset by a decrease the average net spread between the yield on loans held for sale and the Bank warehouse lines of credit interest rates.

Noninterest income was comprised of the items set forth in the table below (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Variance

Nine Months Ended September 30,

Variance

2020

    

2019

    

2020 vs 2019

    

2020

    

2019

    

2020 vs 2019

 

Net gains from sale of loans

$

287,255

$

144,389

$

142,866

$

618,846

$

344,737

$

274,109

Mortgage loan origination fees and other related income

47,703

37,782

9,921

121,841

93,065

28,776

Other mortgage production income:

Change in net fair value and related derivative activity:

IRLCs and loans held for sale

22,466

10,082

12,384

136,409

32,006

104,403

Mortgage servicing rights asset

(12,301)

(3,657)

(8,644)

(23,511)

(11,521)

(11,990)

Servicing fees

10,348

6,261

4,087

21,341

19,151

2,190

Total noninterest income

$

355,471

$

194,857

$

160,614

$

874,926

$

477,438

$

397,488

The increases in net gains from sale of loans during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019, were primarily a result of an increase in total loan sales volume, in addition to an increase in average loan sales margin. Since PrimeLending sells substantially all mortgage loans it originates to various investors in the secondary market, the increases in loan sales volume during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 are consistent with increases in loan origination volume during the same periods in 2019. The increase in average loans sales margin was primarily driven by PrimeLending managing increased loan origination volumes to a level that could be supported by its loan fulfillment operations and addressing anticipated enhanced credit and liquidity risks triggered by the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The increases in mortgage loan origination fees during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared with the same periods in 2019, were primarily the result of an increase in loan origination volume, partially offset by a decrease in average mortgage loan origination fees.

We consider the mortgage origination segment’s net gains from sale of loans margin, in basis points, to be a key performance measure. Net gains from sale of loans margin is defined as net gains from sale of loans divided by loan sales volume. The net gains from sale of loans is central to the segment’s generation of income. The mortgage origination segment’s net gains from sale of loans margins, including loans sold to the banking segment, during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were 440 bps and 335 bps, respectively. The mortgage origination segment’s net gains from sale of loans margins, including loans sold to the banking segment, during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were 388 bps and 333 bps, respectively. During the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, the mortgage origination segment originated approximately $12.8 million and $27.9 million, respectively, in loans on behalf of the banking segment, representing approximately 0.2% and 1.0%, respectively, of PrimeLending’s total loan origination volume during each applicable period. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, the mortgage origination segment originated approximately $155.3 million and $47.8 million, respectively, in loans on behalf of the banking segment, representing approximately 1.0% of PrimeLending’s total loan origination volume during both periods. These loans were sold to the banking segment at par. For origination services provided, the mortgage origination segment was reimbursed direct origination costs associated with these loans, in addition to payment of a correspondent fee. The reimbursed origination costs and correspondent fee are included in the mortgage origination segment operating results, and the correspondent fees are eliminated in consolidation. The impact of loans sold to the banking segment at par was de minimis to the net gain from sale of loans margin during both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, and for the same periods in 2019. Loan volumes to be originated on behalf of and retained by the banking segment are evaluated each quarter. While we anticipate an increase in loans sold to the banking segment during the fourth quarter, we do not expect these sales to exceed 5% of total origination volume during this time. In March 2020, the mortgage origination segment executed a letter of intent with the banking segment to purchase mortgage loans previously sold to the banking segment with an unpaid principal balance of approximately

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$210 million. When these loans were sold at par by the mortgage origination segment, the banking segment’s intent was to hold these loans for investment. The mortgage origination segment completed the repurchase of these loans from the banking segment and in turn sold the loans to investors in the secondary market during the second quarter of 2020.

Noninterest income included the impact of changes between periods in the net fair value of the mortgage origination segment’s IRLCs and loans held for sale and the related activity associated with forward commitments used by the mortgage origination segment to mitigate interest rate risk associated with its IRLCs and mortgage loans held for sale. The increases during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 were the result of increases in the volume of IRLCs and loans held for sale, as well as increases in the average value of individual IRLCs and loans held for sale.

The mortgage origination segment sells substantially all mortgage loans it originates to various investors in the secondary market, historically with the majority servicing released. In addition, the mortgage origination segment originates loans on behalf of the Bank. The mortgage origination segment’s determination of whether to retain or release servicing on mortgage loans it sells is impacted by, among other things, changes in mortgage interest rates, and refinancing and market activity. During the three months ended September 30, 2020, the mortgage origination segment retained servicing on 89% of loans sold, compared to 7% during the same period in 2019. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the mortgage origination segment retained servicing on 71% of loans sold, compared to 6% during the same period in 2019. The increase in rates of retained servicing during both periods was due to the reduction in third party servicing outlets during the second quarter of 2020 resulting from the impact of the CARES Act. The CARES Act permits borrowers of federally-backed mortgage loans to forbear payments, which could negatively impact servicers’ liquidity and their ability to purchase servicing. We expect that PrimeLending will retain servicing on approximately 50% to 75% of its mortgage loan sales during the remainder of 2020. The related MSR asset was valued at $128.3 million on $13.7 billion of serviced loan volume at September 30, 2020, compared with a value of $56.7 million on $5.1 billion of serviced loan volume at December 31, 2019. The mortgage origination segment may, from time to time, manage its MSR asset through different strategies, including varying the percentage of mortgage loans sold servicing released and opportunistically selling MSR assets. The mortgage origination segment has also retained servicing on certain loans sold to the banking segment. Gains and losses associated with such sales to the banking segment and the related MSR asset are eliminated in consolidation. The mortgage origination segment uses derivative financial instruments, including U.S. Treasury bond futures and options, as a means to mitigate interest rate risk associated with its MSR asset. Changes in the net fair value of the MSR asset and the related derivatives associated with normal customer payments, changes in discount rates, prepayment speed assumptions and customer payoffs resulted in net losses of $12.3 million and $23.5 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively, compared to net losses of $3.7 million and $11.5 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively. Additionally, net servicing income was $4.6 million and $8.2 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively, compared with $2.9 million and $9.5 million during the same period in 2019. On February 14, 2020, the mortgage origination segment sold MSR assets of $18.7 million, which represented $1.5 billion of its serviced loan volume at the time. In addition, on September 29, 2020, the mortgage origination segment executed an agreement to sell MSR assets of approximately $18.0 million, which represented $2.3 billion of its current serviced loan volume. The MSR sale is scheduled to close on October 31, 2020.

Noninterest expenses were comprised of the items set forth in the table below (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Variance

Nine Months Ended September 30,

Variance

2020

    

2019

  

2020 vs 2019

   

2020

   

2019

   

2020 vs 2019

 

Variable compensation

$

116,275

$

81,287

$

34,988

$

288,380

$

185,732

$

102,648

Non-variable compensation and benefits

45,463

42,603

2,860

134,511

123,650

10,861

Segment operating costs

33,414

27,658

5,756

94,062

83,827

10,235

Lender paid closing costs

6,227

5,760

467

17,145

14,182

2,963

Servicing expense

5,797

3,326

2,471

13,124

9,641

3,483

Total noninterest expense

$

207,176

$

160,634

$

46,542

$

547,222

$

417,032

$

130,190

Total employees’ compensation and benefits accounted for the majority of noninterest expenses incurred during all periods presented. Specifically, variable compensation comprised 71.9% and 65.6% of total employees’ compensation and benefits expenses during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and 68.2% and 60.0% during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The increases in the percentage concentration of variable compensation and benefits were primarily due to an increase in loan origination volume. Variable compensation, which is primarily driven by loan origination volume, tends to fluctuate to a greater degree than loan origination volume because mortgage loan originator and fulfillment staff incentive compensation plans are structured to

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pay at increasing rates as higher monthly volume tiers are achieved. However, certain other incentive compensation plans driven by non-mortgage production criteria may alter this trend. In addition to increases in loan origination volume between the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, primarily driving the increase in variable compensation and benefits, there was also a slight increase in the average incentive rate paid.

While total loan origination volume increased 35.2% and 44.7% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2019, the aggregate non-variable compensation and benefits and segment operating costs of the mortgage origination segment increased by 12.3% and 10.2%, respectively. The aforementioned increases during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same periods in 2019, were primarily due to increases in non-variable compensation and benefits and loan origination costs. The increases in non-variable compensation were primarily the result of overtime expense incurred due to increased loan volume, an increase in the average cost of employee benefits, and an increase in technology infrastructure support. In addition, to support the increase in loan origination volume during the last two quarters, the mortgage origination segment increased underwriting and loan fulfillment staff during the third quarter. The increases in loan origination costs were primarily due to an increase in loan origination volume.

In exchange for a higher interest rate, customers may opt to have PrimeLending pay certain costs associated with the origination of their mortgage loans (“lender paid closing costs”). Fluctuations in lender paid closing costs are not always aligned with fluctuations in loan origination volume. Other loan pricing conditions, including the mortgage loan interest rate, loan origination fees paid by the customer, and a customer’s willingness to pay closing costs, may influence fluctuations in lender paid closing costs.

Between January 1, 2011 and September 30, 2020, the mortgage origination segment sold mortgage loans totaling $130.6 billion. These loans were sold under sales contracts that generally include provisions that hold the mortgage origination segment responsible for errors or omissions relating to its representations and warranties that loans sold meet certain requirements, including representations as to underwriting standards and the validity of certain borrower representations in connection with the loan. In addition, the sales contracts typically require the refund of purchased servicing rights plus certain investor servicing costs if a loan experiences an early payment default. While the mortgage origination segment sold loans prior to 2011, it does not anticipate experiencing significant losses in the future on loans originated prior to 2011 as a result of investor claims under these provisions of its sales contracts.

When a claim for indemnification of a loan sold is made by an agency, investor, or other party, the mortgage origination segment evaluates the claim and determines if the claim can be satisfied through additional documentation or other deliverables. If the claim is valid and cannot be satisfied in that manner, the mortgage origination segment negotiates with the claimant to reach a settlement of the claim. Settlements typically result in either the repurchase of a loan or reimbursement to the claimant for losses incurred on the loan.

Following is a summary of the mortgage origination segment’s claims resolution activity relating to loans sold between January 1, 2011 and September 30, 2020 (dollars in thousands).

Original Loan Balance

Loss Recognized

% of

% of

Loans

Loans

    

Amount

    

Sold

    

Amount

    

Sold

 

Claims resolved with no payment

$

209,924

0.16%

$

0.00%

Claims resolved because of a loan repurchase or payment to an investor for losses incurred (1)

260,281

0.20%

9,785

0.01%

$

470,205

0.36%

$

9,785

0.01%

(1)Losses incurred include refunded purchased servicing rights.

For each loan it concludes its obligation to a claimant is both probable and reasonably estimable, the mortgage origination segment has established a specific claims indemnification liability reserve. An additional indemnification liability reserve has been established for probable agency, investor or other party losses that may have been incurred, but not yet reported to the mortgage origination segment based upon a reasonable estimate of such losses. In addition to other factors, the mortgage origination segment has considered that GNMA, FNMA and FHLMC have imposed certain restrictions on loans the agencies will accept under a forbearance agreement resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, which could increase the magnitude of indemnification losses on these loans.

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At September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the mortgage origination segment’s indemnification liability reserve totaled $18.0 million and $11.8 million, respectively. The related provision for indemnification losses was $3.1 million and $1.0 million during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $7.7 million and $2.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Corporate

The following table presents certain financial information regarding the operating results of corporate (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

    

Variance

Nine Months Ended September 30,

    

Variance

2020

2019

2020 vs 2019

2020

2019

2020 vs 2019

Net interest expense

$

(4,594)

$

(1,384)

$

(3,210)

$

(9,482)

$

(4,045)

$

(5,437)

Noninterest income

 

477

 

460

 

17

 

3,315

 

1,820

 

1,495

Noninterest expense

21,999

 

12,561

 

9,438

35,741

 

37,397

 

(1,656)

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes

$

(26,116)

$

(13,485)

$

(12,631)

$

(41,908)

$

(39,622)

$

(2,286)

Corporate includes certain activities not allocated to specific business segments. These activities include holding company financing and investing activities, merchant banking investment opportunities and management and administrative services to support the overall operations of the Company. Hilltop’s merchant banking investment activities include the identification of attractive opportunities for capital deployment in companies engaged in non-financial activities through its merchant bank subsidiary, Hilltop Opportunity Partners LLC.

As a holding company, Hilltop’s primary investment objectives are to support capital deployment for organic growth and to preserve capital to be deployed through acquisitions, dividend payments and potential stock repurchases. Investment and interest income during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 was primarily comprised of dividend income from merchant banking investment activities, in addition to interest income earned on intercompany notes.

Interest expense during each period included recurring quarterly interest expense of $1.9 million incurred on our $150.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5% senior notes due 2025 (“Senior Notes”). During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, we incurred interest expense of $3.1 million and $4.8 million, respectively, on our recently completed public offering in May 2020 of $200 million aggregate principal amount of Subordinated Notes. Additionally, we incurred interest expense of $0.6 million and $1.0 million during the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $2.2 million and $3.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, on junior subordinated debentures of $67.0 million issued by PCC (the “Debentures”).

Noninterest income from continuing operations during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 included activity related to our investment in a new real estate development in Dallas’ University Park, which also serves as headquarters for both Hilltop and the Bank, and net noninterest income associated with activity within our merchant bank subsidiary.

Noninterest expenses from continuing operations during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were primarily comprised of employees’ compensation and benefits, occupancy expenses and professional fees, including corporate governance, legal and transaction costs. Noninterest expenses increased during the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same period in 2019, primarily due to increases in expenses associated with employees’ incentive compensation and professional fees. The decrease during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the same period in 2019, included $6.8 million of aggregate pre-tax costs associated with the Leadership Changes and efficiency initiative-related charges discussed in the “Factors Affecting Comparability of Results of Operations” section, partially offset by the increases previously noted.

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Results from Discontinued Operations

Insurance Segment

As previously discussed, on June 30, 2020, we completed the sale of NLC. Accordingly, insurance segment results and its assets and liabilities have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements. Additional details are presented in Note 3, Discontinued Operations, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements. Income from discontinued operations before income taxes was $6.5 million during the three months ended September 30, 2019, while income from discontinued operations before income taxes was $2.1 million and $10.5 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Corporate

As a result of the previously noted sale of NLC on June 30, 2020 for cash proceeds of $154.1 million, Hilltop recognized a pre-tax gain within discontinued operations of corporate of $32.3 million, net of customary transaction costs of $5.1 million and was subject to post-closing adjustments, during the second quarter of 2020. Included within discontinued operations of corporate for the third quarter of 2020 is the recognition of a pre-tax post-closing adjustment gain of $0.7 million related to the finalization of the June 30, 2020 closing balance sheet, resulting in an aggregate gain on sale of NLC of $33.1 million. The resulting book gain from this sale transaction was not recognized for tax purposes pursuant to the rules under the Internal Revenue Code. Income from discontinued operations before income taxes was $0.7 million and $33.1 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively.

Financial Condition

The following discussion contains a more detailed analysis of our financial condition at September 30, 2020, as compared with December 31, 2019.

Securities Portfolio

At September 30, 2020, investment securities consisted of securities of the U.S. Treasury, U.S. government and its agencies, obligations of municipalities and other political subdivisions, primarily in the State of Texas, as well as mortgage-backed, corporate debt, and equity securities. We may categorize investments as trading, available for sale, held to maturity and equity securities.

Trading securities are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term and are carried at fair value, marked to market through operations and held at the Bank and the Hilltop Broker-Dealers. Securities classified as available for sale may, from time to time, be bought and sold in response to changes in market interest rates, changes in securities’ prepayment risk, increases in loan demand, general liquidity needs and to take advantage of market conditions that create more economically attractive returns. Such securities are carried at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Equity investments are carried at fair value, with all changes in fair value recognized in net income. Securities are classified as held to maturity based on the intent and ability of our management, at the time of purchase, to hold such securities to maturity. These securities are carried at amortized cost.

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The table below summarizes our securities portfolio (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

    

2020

    

2019

 

Trading securities, at fair value

U.S. Treasury securities

$

20,859

$

U.S. government agencies:

Bonds

51,707

24,680

Residential mortgage-backed securities

13,951

331,601

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

891

2,145

Collateralized mortgage obligations

372,219

191,154

Corporate debt securities

62,837

36,973

States and political subdivisions

135,068

93,117

Unit investment trusts

3,468

Private-label securitized product

6,752

2,992

Other

 

3,467

 

3,446

 

667,751

 

689,576

Securities available for sale, at fair value

U.S. government agencies:

Bonds

 

57,940

 

85,575

Residential mortgage-backed securities

 

596,993

 

437,029

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

64,292

12,031

Collateralized mortgage obligations

 

548,477

 

335,616

States and political subdivisions

 

42,538

 

41,242

 

1,310,240

 

911,493

Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost

U.S. government agencies:

Bonds

24,020

Residential mortgage-backed securities

 

14,659

17,776

Commercial mortgage-backed securities

153,318

161,624

Collateralized mortgage obligations

 

84,670

113,894

States and political subdivisions

 

70,652

69,012

 

323,299

 

386,326

Equity securities, at fair value

117

166

Total securities portfolio

$

2,301,407

$

1,987,561

We had net unrealized gains of $29.8 million and $11.7 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, related to the available for sale investment portfolio, and net unrealized gains of $15.6 million and $2.6 million associated with the securities held to maturity portfolio at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. We had net unrealized gains of $0.1 million at both September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019 related to equity securities.

Banking Segment

The banking segment’s securities portfolio plays a role in the management of our interest rate sensitivity and generates additional interest income. In addition, the securities portfolio is used to meet collateral requirements for public and trust deposits, securities sold under agreements to repurchase and other purposes. The available for sale and equity securities portfolios serve as a source of liquidity. Historically, the Bank’s policy has been to invest primarily in securities of the U.S. government and its agencies, obligations of municipalities in the State of Texas and other high grade fixed income securities to minimize credit risk. At September 30, 2020, the banking segment’s securities portfolio of $1.6 billion was comprised of trading securities of $1.1 million, available for sale securities of $1.3 billion, equity securities of $0.1 million and held to maturity securities of $323.3 million, in addition to $14.8 million of other investments included in other assets within the consolidated balance sheets.

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Broker-Dealer Segment

The broker-dealer segment holds securities to support sales, underwriting and other customer activities. The interest rate risk inherent in holding these securities is managed by setting and monitoring limits on the size and duration of positions and on the length of time the securities can be held. The Hilltop Broker-Dealers are required to carry their securities at fair value and record changes in the fair value of the portfolio in operations. Accordingly, the securities portfolio of the Hilltop Broker-Dealers included trading securities of $666.7 million at September 30, 2020. In addition, the Hilltop Broker-Dealers enter into transactions that represent commitments to purchase and deliver securities at prevailing future market prices to facilitate customer transactions and satisfy such commitments. Accordingly, the Hilltop Broker-Dealers’ ultimate obligations may exceed the amount recognized in the financial statements. These securities, which are carried at fair value and reported as securities sold, not yet purchased in the consolidated balance sheets, had a value of $56.0 million at September 30, 2020.

Corporate

At September 30, 2020, the corporate portfolio included other investments, including those associated with merchant banking, of $38.8 million in other assets within the consolidated balance sheets.

Allowance for Credit Losses for Available for Sale Securities and Held to Maturity Securities

We have evaluated available for sale debt securities that are in an unrealized loss position and have determined that any declines in value are unrelated to credit loss and related to changes in market interest rates since purchase. None of the available for sale debt securities held were past due at September 30, 2020. In addition, as of September 30, 2020, we had evaluated our held to maturity debt securities, considering the current credit ratings and recognized losses, and determined the potential credit loss to be minimal. With respect to these securities, we considered the risk of credit loss to be negligible, and therefore, no allowance was recognized on the debt securities portfolio at September 30, 2020.

Loan Portfolio

Consolidated loans held for investment are detailed in the tables below, classified by portfolio segment.

    

September 30,

    

December 31,

 

2020

2019

 

Commercial real estate

$

3,073,038

$

3,000,523

Commercial and industrial

 

2,848,289

 

2,025,720

Construction and land development

 

841,385

 

940,564

1-4 family residential

 

643,833

 

791,020

Consumer

36,720

47,046

Broker-dealer

502,295

576,527

Loans held for investment, gross

 

7,945,560

 

7,381,400

Allowance for credit losses

 

(155,214)

 

(61,136)

Loans held for investment, net of allowance

$

7,790,346

$

7,320,264

Banking Segment

The loan portfolio constitutes the major earning asset of the banking segment and typically offers the best alternative for obtaining the maximum interest spread above the banking segment’s cost of funds. The overall economic strength of the banking segment generally parallels the quality and yield of its loan portfolio.

The banking segment’s total loans held for investment, net of the allowance for credit losses, were $9.5 billion and $8.6 billion at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. The banking segment’s loan portfolio includes warehouse lines of credit extended to PrimeLending of $3.3 billion, of which $2.2 billion and $1.8 billion was drawn at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Amounts advanced against the warehouse lines of credit are eliminated from net loans held for investment on our consolidated balance sheets. The banking segment does not generally participate in syndicated loan transactions and has no foreign loans in its portfolio.

The banking segment’s loan portfolio includes $670.7 million in PPP loans at September 30, 2020. While these loans have terms up to 60 months, borrowers can apply for forgiveness of these loans with the SBA. We anticipate a

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significant amount of these loans being forgiven over the next three quarters. The forgiveness/payoff of these loans would generate an increase in interest income as we would recognize the remaining unamortized origination fee at time of payoff.

At September 30, 2020, the banking segment had loan concentrations (loans to borrowers engaged in similar activities) that exceeded 10% of total loans in its real estate portfolio. The areas of concentration within our real estate portfolio were non-construction commercial real estate loans and construction and land development loans, which represented 41.3% and 11.3%, respectively, of the banking segment’s total loans held for investment (excluding warehouse lines of credit extended to PrimeLending) at September 30, 2020. The banking segment’s loan concentrations were within regulatory guidelines at September 30, 2020.

Broker-Dealer Segment

The loan portfolio of the broker-dealer segment consists primarily of margin loans to customers and correspondents. These loans are collateralized by the securities purchased or by other securities owned by the clients and, because of collateral coverage ratios, are believed to present minimal collectability exposure. Additionally, these loans are subject to a number of regulatory requirements as well as the Hilltop Broker-Dealers’ internal policies. The broker-dealer segment’s total loans held for investment, net of the allowance for credit losses, were $502.1 million and $576.5 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. This decrease from December 31, 2019 to September 30, 2020 was primarily attributable to a decrease of $52.3 million, or 16.8%, in customer margin accounts and a decrease of $20.7 million, or 7.8%, in receivables from correspondents.

Mortgage Origination Segment

The loan portfolio of the mortgage origination segment consists of loans held for sale, primarily single-family residential mortgages funded through PrimeLending, and IRLCs with customers pursuant to which we agree to originate a mortgage loan on a future date at an agreed-upon interest rate. The components of the mortgage origination segment’s loans held for sale and IRLCs are as follows (in thousands).

September 30,

December 31, 

    

2020

    

2019

 

Loans held for sale:

Unpaid principal balance

$

2,237,395

$

1,878,231

Fair value adjustment

 

106,793

 

57,482

$

2,344,188

$

1,935,713

IRLCs:

Unpaid principal balance

$

3,513,711

$

914,526

Fair value adjustment

 

115,699

 

18,222

$

3,629,410

$

932,748

The mortgage origination segment uses forward commitments to mitigate interest rate risk associated with its loans held for sale and IRLCs. The notional amounts of these forward commitments at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019 were $4.9 billion and $2.2 billion, respectively, while the related estimated fair values were ($10.9) million and ($3.8) million, respectively.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans

Since December 31, 2019, we have updated our Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates related to the allowance for credit losses as a result of the implementation of CECL on January 1, 2020. For additional information regarding the allowance for credit losses, refer to the section captioned “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” included in this Form 10-Q.

Loans Held for Investment

The allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment represents management’s best estimate of all expected credit losses over the expected contractual life of our existing portfolio. Determining the appropriateness of the allowance is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.

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Subsequent evaluations of the then-existing loan portfolio, in light of the factors then prevailing, may result in significant changes in the allowance for credit losses in those future periods. Such future changes in the allowance for credit losses are expected to be volatile given dependence upon, among other things, the portfolio composition and quality, as well as the impact of significant drivers, including prepayment assumptions and macroeconomic conditions and forecasts.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a weak labor market and weak overall economic conditions that will affect borrowers across our lending portfolios and significant judgment is required to estimate the severity and duration of the current economic downturn, as well as its potential impact on borrower defaults and loss severity. In particular, macroeconomic conditions and forecasts regarding the duration and severity of the economic downturn are rapidly changing and remain highly uncertain as the resurgence of COVID-19 cases evolves nationally and in key geographies. It is difficult to predict exactly how borrower behavior will be impacted by these economic conditions as the effectiveness of government stimulus, customer relief and enhanced unemployment benefits should help mitigate in the short term, but the extent and duration of government stimulus as well as performance of recently implemented payment deferral programs remains uncertain.

One of the most significant judgments involved in estimating our allowance for credit losses relates to the macroeconomic forecasts used to estimate credit losses over the reasonable and supportable forecast period. To determine the allowance for credit losses as of September 30, 2020, we utilized a single macroeconomic baseline scenario published by a third party in September 2020.

The following table summarizes the U.S. Real Gross Domestic Product (“GDP”) growth rates and unemployment rate assumptions used in our baseline economic forecast to determine our best estimate of expected credit losses.

As of

March 31,

June 30,

September 30,

2020

2020

2020

GDP growth rates:

Q1 2020

-2.5%

Q2 2020

-18.3%

-33.4%

Q3 2020

10.9%

19.8%

26.6%

Q4 2020

2.4%

0.1%

2.9%

Q1 2021

2.6%

0.2%

3.6%

Q2 2021

3.3%

1.8%

3.1%

Q3 2021

5.1%

8.5%

4.4%

Q4 2021

7.3%

6.0%

Q1 2022

5.5%

Unemployment rates:

Q1 2020

3.8%

Q2 2020

8.7%

14.0%

Q3 2020

6.3%

9.1%

8.9%

Q4 2020

6.5%

9.5%

9.1%

Q1 2021

6.7%

9.7%

8.9%

Q2 2021

6.7%

9.7%

8.7%

Q3 2021

6.6%

9.2%

8.3%

Q4 2021

8.7%

7.8%

Q1 2022

7.3%

The baseline economic forecast used to determine our best estimate of expected credit losses as of March 31, 2020 assumed a severe, but short U.S. recession during the first half of 2020 with growth rates down, followed by a strong economic recovery as businesses re-open and consumer spending increases during the second half of 2020 and positive GDP growth rates. The unemployment rates were expected to remain elevated into the fourth quarter of 2021, then revert to historical data in the fourth quarter of 2022. Management’s recovery assumptions included some expected benefit of COVID-19 related fiscal and monetary stimulus measures and the expected beneficial impacts of the CARES Act and certain regulatory interagency guidance.

As of June 30, 2020, our best estimate of expected credit losses used a baseline economic forecast that continued to assume the Federal Reserve target range of the federal funds rate at 0% to 0.25% into 2023, but was updated for continued deterioration in the U.S. economic outlook due to COVID-19 conditions. Compared to assumptions as of

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March 31, 2020, GDP growth rates declined significantly in the second quarter of 2020, but reflected higher recovery in the third quarter of 2020. Unemployment rates were forecasted to be at higher levels than those assumed as of March 31, 2020 into the fourth quarter of 2022. The timing of the release in early June 2020 of the third party’s baseline forecast utilized did not assume a second wave of COVID-19 cases into the summer months, so the model results as of June 30, 2020 were qualitatively adjusted to consider recent developments in Texas, uncertainty in Texas’ economic re-opening plan and such impacts on our most adversely impacted loan portfolios. Qualitative adjustments considered both significant government relief programs and stimulus, as well as certain model limitations with the current economic forecast and recent commodity price shocks not observed in historical data.

As of September 30, 2020, our near-term baseline economic forecast improved from June 30, 2020, reflecting better than expected economic data as states progress with their re-opening plans. Projected real GDP growth rates were revised for the third quarter of 2020 as recent economic data suggested the assumed peak-to-trough decline in real GDP during the second quarter of 2020 was significant, but not as severe as expected. As such, projected real GDP growth in the third and fourth quarters of 2020 were revised upward to reflect monthly recovery trends in consumer and government spending observed in July and August. Projected near-term unemployment rates were adjusted lower to reflect the initial phase of the labor market recovery as states re-open and temporarily furloughed workers are recalled to their jobs. Our interest rate expectations continue to assume monetary policy supports the Federal Reserve target range of the federal funds rate at 0% to 0.25% into late 2023. However, baseline assumptions around fiscal policy and additional government stimulus were revised lower as it is uncertain whether additional stimulus legislation will be passed before early next year and how its delay will affect our most adversely impacted loan portfolios.

The increase in the allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was primarily attributable to changes within the Bank. As previously discussed, we adopted the new CECL standard and recorded transition adjustment entries that resulted in an allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment of $73.7 million as of January 1, 2020, an increase of $12.6 million. This increase reflected credit losses of $18.9 million from the expansion of the loss horizon to life of loan and also takes into account forecasts of expected future macroeconomic conditions, partially offset by the elimination of the non-credit component within the historical allowance related to previously categorized PCI loans of $6.3 million. This increase, net of tax, was largely reflected within the banking segment and included a decrease of $5.7 million to opening retained earnings at January 1, 2020.

During the three months ended September 30, 2020, the allowance included a net reversal of credit losses on individually evaluated loans of $1.2 million, while the provision for credit losses on expected losses of collectively evaluated loans accounted for $0.6 million of the total provision primarily due to the identified changes in the Bank’s loan portfolio composition and credit quality being offset by improvements in macroeconomic factor assumptions and qualitative factors from the prior quarter. The change in the allowance during the three months ended September 30, 2020 was also impacted by net charge-offs of $0.6 million. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the significant build in the allowance included provision for credit losses on individually evaluated loans of $22.6 million, while the provision for credit losses on expected losses of collectively evaluated loans accounted for $77.2 million of the total provision primarily due to the increase in the expected lifetime credit losses under CECL attributable to the deteriorating economic outlook associated with the impact of the market disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The changes in the allowance for credit losses during the noted periods were also attributable to other factors including, but not limited to, loan growth and loan mix. The change in the allowance during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was also impacted by net charge-offs of $18.5 million, primarily associated with loans specifically reserved for during the first quarter of 2020.

As discussed under the section entitled “Loan Portfolio” earlier in this Item 2, the Bank’s actions during the second and third quarters of 2020 included supporting our impacted banking clients experiencing an increased level of risk due to the COVID-19 pandemic through loan modifications. The significant build in the allowance included provision for credit losses associated with this deteriorating economic outlook and resulted in an allowance for credit losses as a percentage of our total loan portfolio, excluding margin loans in the broker-dealer segment and banking segment mortgage warehouse lending and PPP lending programs, of 2.63%.

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The respective distribution of the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of our total loan portfolio and total active loan modifications, excluding margin loans in the broker-dealer segment and banking segment mortgage warehouse lending and PPP lending programs, are presented in the following table (dollars in thousands).

Allowance For

Allowance

Allowance For

Credit Losses

For Credit

Credit Losses

Total

as a % of

    

Losses on

as a % of

Total

Allowance

Total Loans

Active

Active

Active

Loans Held

for Credit

Held For

    

Loan

Loan

Loan

September 30, 2020

For Investment

Losses

Investment

Modifications

Modifications

Modifications

Commercial real estate

$

3,073,038

$

104,566

3.40

%

$

217,388

$

36,188

16.65

%

Commercial and industrial (1)

1,295,061

37,737

2.91

%

41,007

11,651

28.41

%

Construction and land development

 

841,385

 

6,270

0.75

%

24,692

 

697

2.82

%

1-4 family residential

 

643,833

 

5,052

0.78

%

8,258

 

214

2.59

%

Consumer

36,720

 

1,002

2.73

%

98

 

2

1.70

%

 

5,890,037

 

154,627

2.63

%

291,443

 

48,752

16.73

%

Broker-dealer

502,295

146

0.03

%

-

%

Mortgage warehouse lending

882,503

441

0.05

%

-

%

Paycheck Protection Program

670,725

-

%

-

%

$

7,945,560

$

155,214

1.95

%

$

291,443

$

48,752

16.73

%

(1)Commercial and industrial portfolio amounts reflect balances excluding broker-dealer segment margin loans and banking segment mortgage warehouse lending and Paycheck Protection Program loans.

Allowance Model Sensitivity

Our allowance model was designed to capture the historical relationship between economic and portfolio changes. As such, evaluating shifts in individual portfolio attributes or macroeconomic variables in isolation may not be indicative of past or future performance. It is difficult to estimate how potential changes in any one factor or input might affect the overall allowance for credit losses because we consider a wide variety of factors and inputs in the allowance for credit losses estimate. Changes in the factors and inputs considered may not occur at the same rate and may not be consistent across all geographies or product types, and changes in factors and input may be directionally inconsistent, such that improvement in one factor may offset deterioration in others.

However, to consider the sensitivity of credit loss estimates to alternative macroeconomic forecasts, we compared the Company’s allowance for credit loss estimates as of September 30, 2020, excluding loans in the broker-dealer segment margin, the banking segment mortgage warehouse, and PPP lending programs, with modeled results using both upside (“S1”) and downside (“S3”) economic scenario forecasts published by Moody’s Analytics.

Compared to our baseline economic forecast, the upside scenario assumes consumer and business confidence increases as successful developments in vaccines and medical treatments slow the progression of the virus and most businesses affected by local restrictions reopen earlier than expected. Real GDP growth is expected to increase 8.4% in Q4 2020. It is expected to grow 7.3% in the first quarter of 2021, 6.0% in the second quarter of 2021, 6.4% in the third quarter of 2021 and 4.9% in the fourth quarter of 2021. Average unemployment rates decline to 6.0% by the end of 2021 and 4.4% by the end of 2022. The Federal Reserve maintains a near 0% target for the federal funds rate through 2022, additional government stimulus is approved in 2020, and expanded support to unemployment insurance, small business lending, and lower to middle income households continue.

Compared to our baseline economic forecast, the downside scenario assumes consumer and business confidence continues to decline as infections rise and developments in vaccines and medical treatments are unsuccessful in the short-term. As the number of new cases rise, some nonessential businesses are forced to close again, and most businesses affected by local restrictions reopen slower than expected. Real GDP growth is expected to decrease -4.5% in the fourth quarter of 2020, -2.8% in the first quarter of 2021 and -1.5% in the second quarter of 2021, then is expected to grow 1.9% in the third quarter of 2021, 2.8% in the fourth quarter of 2021 and 4.7% in the first quarter of 2022. Average unemployment rates increase to 11.3% by midyear 2021 and improve modestly to 10.9% by the end of 2021. Unemployment is expected to remain elevated at 8.7% in the fourth quarter of 2022 and 6.4% in the fourth quarter of 2023, and reverts to historical average rates over time. The Federal Reserve maintains a near 0% target for the federal funds rate through early 2025 and disagreements in Congress prevent any additional government stimulus, resulting in no expanded programs for unemployment insurance benefits, small business lending, and lower to middle income households at the end of this year.

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The impact of applying all of the assumptions of the upside economic scenario during the reasonable and supportable forecast period would have resulted in a decrease in the allowance for credit losses of approximately $21 million or a weighted average expected loss rate of 1.92% as a percentage of our total loan portfolio, excluding margin loans in the broker-dealer segment and the banking segment mortgage warehouse lending and PPP lending programs.

The impact of applying all of the assumptions of the downside economic scenario during the reasonable and supportable forecast period would have resulted in an increase in the allowance for credit losses of approximately $85 million or a weighted average expected loss rate of 3.72% as a percentage of our total loan portfolio, excluding margin loans in the broker-dealer segment and the banking segment mortgage warehouse lending and PPP lending programs.

This analysis relates only to the modeled credit loss estimates and is not intended to estimate changes in the overall allowance for credit losses as they do not reflect any potential changes in the adjustment to the quantitative calculation, which would also be influenced by the judgment management applies to the modeled lifetime loss estimates to reflect the uncertainty and imprecision of these modeled lifetime loss estimates based on then-current circumstances and conditions. It also did not consider impacts from recent Bank deferral and customer accommodation efforts or government fiscal and monetary stimulus measures.

Our allowance for credit losses reflects our best estimate of current expected credit losses, which is highly dependent on the path of the virus and expectations around the development of reliable vaccines and medical treatments. We continue to monitor the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related policy measures on the economy and if pace and vigor of the expected recovery is worse than expected, further meaningful provisions could be required. Future allowance for credit losses may vary considerably for these reasons.

Allowance Activity

The following table presents the activity in our allowance for credit losses within our loan portfolio for the periods presented (in thousands). Substantially all of the activity shown below occurred within the banking segment.

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

Loans Held for Investment

    

2020

    

2019

   

2020

    

2019

    

Balance, beginning of period

$

156,383

$

55,177

$

61,136

$

59,486

Transition adjustment for adoption of CECL accounting standard

12,562

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses

 

(602)

 

47

 

99,973

 

326

Recoveries of loans previously charged off:

Commercial real estate

 

571

 

 

592

 

Commercial and industrial

 

382

 

1,393

 

1,450

 

2,362

Construction and land development

 

 

 

2

 

1-4 family residential

 

10

 

14

 

25

 

45

Consumer

84

 

6

308

 

28

Broker-dealer

 

 

Total recoveries

 

1,047

 

1,413

 

2,377

 

2,435

Loans charged off:

Commercial real estate

 

29

 

9

 

4,517

 

9

Commercial and industrial

 

1,341

 

1,000

 

15,325

 

5,247

Construction and land development

 

 

 

2

 

1-4 family residential

 

144

 

12

 

517

 

911

Consumer

100

 

12

473

 

476

Broker-dealer

 

 

Total charge-offs

 

1,614

 

1,033

 

20,834

 

6,643

Net recoveries (charge-offs)

 

(567)

 

380

 

(18,457)

 

(4,208)

Balance, end of period

$

155,214

$

55,604

$

155,214

$

55,604

Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of gross loans held for investment

1.95

%  

0.76

%  

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The distribution of the allowance for credit losses among loan types and the percentage of the loans for that type to gross loans, excluding unearned income, within our loan portfolio are presented in the table below (dollars in thousands).

September 30, 2020

December 31, 2019

    

    

   

% of

    

   

   

% of

    

Gross

Gross

Reserve

Loans

Reserve

Loans

Commercial real estate

 

$

104,566

 

38.68

%  

$

31,595

 

40.65

%

Commercial and industrial

 

 

38,178

 

35.85

%  

 

17,964

 

27.44

%

Construction and land development

 

 

6,270

 

10.59

%  

 

4,878

 

12.74

%

1-4 family residential

 

 

5,052

 

8.10

%  

 

6,386

 

10.72

%

Consumer

1,002

 

0.46

%  

 

265

 

0.64

%

Broker-dealer

146

 

6.32

%  

 

48

 

7.81

%

Total

 

$

155,214

 

100.00

%  

$

61,136

 

100.00

%

The following table summarizes historical levels of the allowance for credit losses on loans held for investment, distributed by portfolio segment (in thousands).

September 30,

June 30,

March 31,

December 31,

September 30,

    

2020

    

2020

2020

    

2019

    

2019

Commercial real estate

$

104,566

$

106,551

$

53,939

$

31,595

$

25,862

Commercial and industrial

 

38,178

 

31,863

 

38,550

 

17,964

 

19,182

Construction and land development

 

6,270

 

8,393

 

6,360

 

4,878

 

4,788

1-4 family residential

 

5,052

 

7,399

 

6,365

 

6,386

 

5,411

Consumer

1,002

1,429

1,203

265

268

Broker-dealer

146

748

322

48

93

$

155,214

$

156,383

$

106,739

$

61,136

$

55,604

The increase in the allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment subsequent to December 31, 2019 in the table above was primarily attributable to the adoption of the new CECL standard as of January 1, 2020 and a deteriorating economic outlook associated with the impact of the market disruption caused by COVID-19 conditions. As previously noted, CECL requires that we reflect the expansion of the loss horizon to life of loan and take into account forecasts of expected future macroeconomic conditions in our determination of the allowance for credit losses.

Unfunded Loan Commitments

In order to estimate the allowance for credit losses on unfunded loan commitments, the Bank uses a process similar to that used in estimating the allowance for credit losses on the funded portion. The allowance is based on the estimated exposure at default, multiplied by the lifetime probability of default grade and loss given default grade for that particular loan segment. The Bank estimates expected losses by calculating a commitment usage factor based on industry usage factors. The commitment usage factor is applied over the relevant contractual period. Loss factors from the underlying loans to which commitments are related are applied to the results of the usage calculation to estimate any liability for credit losses related for each loan type. The expected losses on unfunded commitments align with statistically calculated parameters used to calculate the allowance for credit losses on the funded portion. Letters of credit are not currently reserved because they are issued primarily as credit enhancements and the likelihood of funding is low.

Changes in the allowance for credit losses for loans with off-balance sheet credit exposures are shown below (in thousands).

Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

    

2020

    

2019

2020

    

2019

Balance, beginning of period

$

9,031

$

2,263

$

2,075

$

2,366

Transition adjustment CECL accounting standard

3,837

Other noninterest expense

287

(77)

3,406

(180)

Balance, end of period

$

9,318

$

2,186

$

9,318

$

2,186

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At September 30, 2020, the reserve for unfunded commitments was $9.3 million, compared to $2.1 million at December 31, 2019. As previously discussed, we adopted the new CECL standard and recorded a transition adjustment entry that resulted in an allowance for credit losses of $5.9 million as of January 1, 2020. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, the increases in the reserve for unfunded commitments was primarily due to economic uncertainties associated with the impact of the market disruption caused by COVID-19 conditions.

Potential Problem Loans

Potential problem loans consist of loans that are performing in accordance with contractual terms but for which management has concerns about the ability of an obligor to continue to comply with repayment terms because of the obligor’s potential operating or financial difficulties. Management monitors these loans and reviews their performance on a regular basis. Potential problem loans contain potential weaknesses that could improve, persist or further deteriorate. If such potential weaknesses persist without improving, the loan is subject to downgrade, typically to substandard, in three to six months. Potential problem loans are assigned a grade of special mention within our risk grading matrix. Potential problem loans do not include purchased credit deteriorated (“PCD”) loans because PCD loans exhibited evidence of more than insignificant credit deterioration at acquisition that made it probable that all contractually required principal payments would not be collected. Additionally, potential problem loans do not include loans that have been modified in connection with our COVID-19 payment deferment programs which allow for a deferral of principal and/or interest payments. Within our loan portfolio, we had seven credit relationships totaling $10.8 million of potential problem loans at September 30, 2020, compared with five credit relationships totaling $16.8 million of potential problem loans at December 31, 2019.

Non-Performing Assets

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the CARES Act was passed in March 2020, which among other things, allows the Bank to suspend the TDR requirements for certain loan modifications to be categorized as a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”). Starting in March, the Bank implemented several actions to better support our impacted banking clients and allow for loan modifications such as principal and/or interest payment deferrals, participation in the PPP as an SBA preferred lender and personal banking assistance including waived fees, increased daily spending limits and suspension of residential foreclosure activities. The COVID-19 payment deferment programs allow for a deferral of principal and/or interest payments with such deferred principal payments due and payable on the maturity date of the existing loan.

Specifically, as discussed under the section entitled “Loan Portfolio” earlier in this Item 2, the Bank’s actions during the third quarter of 2020 included approval of an additional $57.7 million of new COVID-19 related loan modifications since June 30, 2020. The portfolio of active deferrals that have not reached the end of their deferral period was approximately $291 million as of September 30, 2020, of which approximately $208 million had received an additional deferral. COVID-19 related loan modifications of approximately $662 million have returned to agreed-upon contractual terms and had made at least one required principal and/or interest payment since the end of their initial deferral period. Such loans represent elevated risk, therefore management continues to monitor these loans. The extent to which these measures will impact the Bank, and any progression of loans, whether receiving COVID-19 payment deferrals or not, into non-performing assets, during future periods is uncertain and will depend on future developments that cannot be predicted.

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The following table presents components of our non-performing assets (dollars in thousands).

September 30,

December 31,

    

2020

    

2019

 

Variance

 

Loans accounted for on a non-accrual basis:

    

    

Commercial real estate

$

14,079

$

7,308

$

6,771

Commercial and industrial

 

38,708

 

15,262

 

23,446

Construction and land development

 

528

 

1,316

 

(788)

1-4 family residential

 

28,707

 

12,204

 

16,503

Consumer

53

26

27

Broker-dealer

$

82,075

$

36,116

$

45,959

Non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans

 

0.78

%  

 

0.38

%

 

0.40

%

Other real estate owned

$

25,387

$

18,202

$

7,185

Other repossessed assets

$

239

$

$

239

Non-performing assets

$

107,701

$

54,318

$

53,383

Non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets

 

0.64

%  

 

0.36

%

 

0.28

%

Loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing

$

187,105

$

102,707

$

84,398

Troubled debt restructurings included in accruing loans held for investment

$

1,919

$

2,173

$

(254)

Loans accounted for on a non-accrual basis at September 30, 2020 were primarily comprised of two commercial real estate loans totaling $4.6 million, 8 commercial and industrial relationships totaling $33.4 million and 287 1-4 family residential loans totaling $10.2 million. The 1-4 family residential loans at September 30, 2020 in the table above also included $8.1 million of loans secured by residential real estate which were classified as loans held for sale.

Loans accounted for on a non-accrual basis increased from December 31, 2019 to September 30, 2020, primarily due to the addition of two commercial and industrial relationships totaling $19.3 million, commercial real estate loans totaling $12.7 million, and various 1-4 family residential loans. The increase in commercial real estate loans in non-accrual status at September 30, 2020 of $6.8 million was primarily related to the addition of 24 loans totaling $12.7 million, with a reserve of $1.4 million, that were previously accruing at December 31, 2019. This increase from December 31, 2019 was partially offset by the settlement of a single loan accounted for on a non-accrual basis with a carrying amount of $2.5 million. The increase in commercial and industrial loans in non-accrual status since December 31, 2019 was primarily due to two relationships that included six loans totaling $19.3 million and had a $4.2 million reserve at September 30, 2020 and a CECL transition gross-up adjustment of $4.6 million related to a loan with an amortized cost of $6.8 million and a reserve of $5.2 million at September 30, 2020. The increase in 1-4 family residential loans in non-accrual status at September 30, 2020, compared to December 31, 2019, was primarily related to the classification of $4.0 million of loans as non-accrual based on CECL transition rules and $3.3 million of net loans classified as loans held for sale.

Other real estate owned (“OREO”) increased from December 31, 2019 to September 30, 2020, primarily due to additions totaling $13.7 million, partially offset by disposals of $6.5 million. At both September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, OREO was primarily comprised of commercial properties.

Loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, were primarily comprised of loans held for sale and guaranteed by U.S. government agencies, including GNMA-related loans subject to repurchase within our mortgage origination segment. As of September 30, 2020, $106.0 million of loans subject to repurchase were under a forbearance agreement resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. During May 2020, GNMA announced it will temporarily exclude any new GNMA lender delinquencies, occurring on or after April 2020, when calculating the delinquency ratios for the purposes of enforcing compliance with its delinquency rate thresholds. This exclusion is extended automatically to GNMA lenders that were compliant with GNMA’s delinquency rate thresholds as reflected by their April 2020 investor accounting report. The mortgage origination segment qualified for this exclusion

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as of September 30, 2020. As of September 30, 2020, $95.2 million of loans subject to repurchase under a forbearance agreement had delinquencies on or after April 2020.

At September 30, 2020, TDRs were comprised of $1.9 million of loans that are considered to be performing and accruing, and $16.4 million of loans considered to be non-performing reported in non-accrual loans. At December 31, 2019, TDRs were comprised of $2.2 million of loans that are considered to be performing and accruing, and $11.9 million of loans that are considered to be non-performing reported in non-accrual loans. In March 2020, the CARES Act was passed, which, among other things, allows the Bank to suspend the requirements for certain loan modifications to be categorized as a TDR. Therefore, the Bank is not reporting COVID-19 related modifications as TDRs.

Deposits

The banking segment’s major source of funds and liquidity is its deposit base. Deposits provide funding for its investments in loans and securities. Interest paid for deposits must be managed carefully to control the level of interest expense and overall net interest margin. The composition of the deposit base (time deposits versus interest-bearing demand deposits and savings), as discussed in more detail within the section entitled “Liquidity and Capital Resources — Banking Segment” below, is constantly changing due to the banking segment’s needs and market conditions.

The table below presents the average balance of, and rate paid on, consolidated deposits (dollars in thousands).

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2020

2019

    

Average

    

Average

    

Average

    

Average

    

Balance

Rate Paid

Balance

Rate Paid

Noninterest-bearing demand deposits

$

3,182,002

 

0.00

%  

$

2,584,114

 

0.00

%  

Interest-bearing demand deposits

 

5,263,228

 

0.42

%  

 

4,260,216

 

1.03

%  

Savings deposits

 

221,429

 

0.10

%  

 

184,161

 

0.19

%  

Time deposits

 

1,869,877

 

1.50

%  

 

1,410,063

 

1.98

%  

$

10,536,536

 

0.48

%  

$

8,438,554

 

0.86

%  

Borrowings

Our consolidated borrowings are shown in the table below (dollars in thousands).

September 30, 2020

December 31, 2019

    

    

    

Average

    

    

    

Average

 

Balance

Rate Paid

Balance

Rate Paid

Variance

Short-term borrowings

$

780,109

 

1.53

%  

$

1,424,010

 

2.41

%

$

(643,901)

Notes payable

 

396,006

 

4.52

%  

 

283,769

 

4.94

%

112,237

Junior subordinated debentures

 

67,012

 

4.30

%  

 

67,012

 

5.75

%

$

1,243,127

 

2.52

%  

$

1,774,791

 

2.97

%

$

(531,664)

Short-term borrowings consisted of federal funds purchased, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, borrowings at the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”), short-term bank loans and commercial paper. The decrease in short-term borrowings at September 30, 2020, compared with December 31, 2019, included a decrease in borrowings in our banking and broker-dealer segments primarily associated with the increased utilization of available internal funds, a decrease in FHLB borrowings and a decrease in securities sold under agreements to repurchase by the Hilltop Broker-Dealers, partially offset by an increase in commercial paper used by the Hilltop Broker-Dealers to finance their activities. Notes payable at September 30, 2020 was comprised of $148.9 million related to the Senior Notes, net of loan origination fees, Subordinated Notes, net of origination fees, of $196.8 million and mortgage origination segment borrowings of $50.4 million.

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

Hilltop is a financial holding company whose assets primarily consist of the stock of its subsidiaries and invested assets. Hilltop’s primary investment objectives, as a holding company, are to support capital deployment for organic growth and to preserve capital to be deployed through acquisitions, dividend payments and stock repurchases. At September 30, 2020, Hilltop had $488.4 million in cash and cash equivalents, an increase of $382.8 million from $105.6 million at December 31, 2019. This increase in cash and cash equivalents was primarily due to the receipt of $196.6 million associated with the Subordinated Notes offering, cash proceeds of $154.1 million from the completed sale of NLC and $104.2 million of dividends from subsidiaries, partially offset by $24.4 million in cash dividends declared, $15.2 million of stock repurchases and other general corporate expenses. Subject to regulatory restrictions, Hilltop has received, and may also continue to receive, dividends from its subsidiaries. If necessary or appropriate, we may also finance acquisitions with the proceeds from equity or debt issuances. We believe that Hilltop’s liquidity is sufficient for the foreseeable future, with current short-term liquidity needs including operating expenses, interest on debt obligations, dividend payments to stockholders and potential stock repurchases.

COVID-19

As previously discussed, in light of the extreme volatility and disruptions in the capital and credit markets beginning in March 2020 resulting from the COVID-19 crisis, including a significant decline in corporate debt and equity issuances and a deterioration in the mortgage servicing and commercial paper markets, we took a number of precautionary actions in March to enhance our financial flexibility by bolstering our cash position to ensure we have adequate cash readily available to meet both expected and unexpected funding needs without adversely affecting our daily operations.

The FOMC reduced the target range for short-term rates by 150 basis points to a range of 0% to 0.25% during March 2020 to support the economy and potentially reduce the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of these rate adjustments and the stressed economic outlook, mortgage rates fell to historically low levels, which resulted in significant growth in mortgage originations at both PrimeLending and Hilltop Securities through its partnerships with certain housing finance authorities. To strengthen the Bank’s available liquidity position, we raised brokered deposits that totaled $1.4 billion at June 30, 2020, as well as swept an additional $200 million of deposits from Hilltop Securities into the Bank, bringing the total funds swept from Hilltop Securities to approximately $1.5 billion until June 2020 when the total funds swept was reduced back to $1.3 billion at June 30, 2020. At September 30, 2020, given the continued strong cash and liquidity levels at the Bank, brokered deposits declined to $1.0 billion and the total funds swept from Hilltop Securities into the Bank was reduced further to approximately $900 million.

Further, during March 2020, we substantially reduced the trading portfolio inventory limits at Hilltop Securities in an effort to protect capital, minimize losses and ensure target liquidity levels throughout the crisis. During March 2020, the capital markets experienced significant friction and in certain portions of the market, liquidity was not prevalent. In particular for us, the market for municipal securities, collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage derivatives and GNMA mortgage pools experienced significant liquidity stress at points during the month. The Federal Reserve, in partnership with the Treasury of the United States, has stepped in to provide additional liquidity in each of these critical markets. We will continue to evaluate market conditions and determine the appropriateness of capital market inventory limits.

To meet demand for customer loan advances and satisfy our obligations to repay long-term debt maturing over the next 12 months, we believe we currently have sufficient liquidity from the available on- and off-balance sheet liquidity sources and our ability to issue debt in the capital markets. We continue to review actions that we may take to further enhance our financial flexibility in the event that market conditions deteriorate further or for an extended period.

Tender Offer

On September 23, 2020, we announced the commencement of a modified “Dutch auction” tender offer to purchase shares of our common stock for an aggregate cash purchase price of up to $350 million and at a per share price not less than $18.25 and not more than $21.00, net to the seller in cash, less any applicable tax withholding and without interest, upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in the tender offer documentation. Unless the offer is extended or terminated, the tender offer is scheduled to expire at the end of the day on October 30, 2020. We expect to fund the tender offer with cash on hand. Under capital adequacy and regulatory requirements, we must meet specific capital requirements that involve quantitative measures of our assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated

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under regulatory accounting practices. As of September 30, 2020, Hilltop and PlainsCapital capital positions and ratios exceeded regulatory capital requirements including conservation buffer assuming a fully subscribed tender offer closed on September 30, 2020. The Federal Reserve has informed Hilltop that it is has no objection to the tender offer.

NLC Sale

On June 30, 2020, we completed the sale of all of the outstanding capital stock of NLC, which comprised the operations of our insurance segment, for cash proceeds of $154.1 million. Hilltop recognized a gain associated with this transaction of $32.3 million, net of customary transaction costs of $5.1 million and subject to post-closing adjustments. During the third quarter of 2020, Hilltop recognized a $0.7 million pre-tax post-closing adjustment to income from discontinued operations related to the finalization of the June 30, 2020 closing balance sheet, resulting in an aggregate gain on sale of NLC of $33.1 million. The resulting book gain from this sale transaction was not recognized for tax purposes due to the excess tax basis over book basis being greater than the recorded book gain. Any tax loss related to this transaction is deemed disallowed pursuant to the rules under the Internal Revenue Code. We also agreed to enter into an agreement at closing to refrain for a specified period from certain activities that compete with the business of NLC. Accordingly, NLC’s results and its assets and liabilities have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements.

Dividend Declaration

On October 22, 2020, our board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.09 per common share, payable on November 30, 2020 to all common stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 16, 2020.

Future dividends on our common stock are subject to the determination by the board of directors based on an evaluation of our earnings and financial condition, liquidity and capital resources, the general economic and regulatory climate, our ability to service any equity or debt obligations senior to our common stock and other factors.

Stock Repurchases

In January 2020, our board of directors authorized a new stock repurchase program through January 2021 pursuant to which we are authorized to repurchase, in the aggregate, up to $75.0 million of our outstanding common stock, inclusive of repurchases to offset dilution related to grants of stock-based compensation. Under the stock repurchase program authorized, we may repurchase shares in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions as permitted under Rule 10b-18 promulgated under the Exchange Act. The extent to which we repurchase our shares and the timing of such repurchases depends upon market conditions and other corporate considerations, as determined by Hilltop’s management team. Repurchased shares will be returned to our pool of authorized but unissued shares of common stock.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, we paid $15.2 million to repurchase an aggregate of 720,901 shares of common stock at a weighted average price of $21.13 per share. The purchases were funded from available cash balances.

As previously announced on April 30, 2020, in light of the uncertain outlook for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hilltop’s board of directors suspended its stock repurchase program. Hilltop’s board of directors has the ability to reinstate the stock repurchase program at its discretion as circumstances warrant.

Senior Notes due 2025

The Senior Notes bear interest at a rate of 5% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears in cash on April 15 and October 15 of each year, commencing on October 15, 2015. The Senior Notes will mature on April 15, 2025, unless we redeem the Senior Notes, in whole at any time or in part from time to time, on or after January 15, 2025 (three months prior to the maturity date of the Senior Notes) at our election at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Senior Notes to be redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date. At September 30, 2020, $150.0 million of our Senior Notes was outstanding.

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Subordinated Notes due 2030 and 2035

On May 7, 2020, we completed a public offering of $50 million aggregate principal amount of 2030 Subordinated Notes and $150 million aggregate principal amount of 2035 Subordinated Notes. The price to the public for the Subordinated Notes was 100% of the principal amount of the Subordinated Notes. The net proceeds from the offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and fees and expenses of $3.4 million, were $196.6 million. We intend to use the net proceeds of the offerings for general corporate purposes.

The 2030 Subordinated Notes and the 2035 Subordinated Notes will mature on May 15, 2030 and May 15, 2035, respectively. We may redeem the Subordinated Notes, in whole or in part, from time to time, subject to obtaining Federal Reserve approval, beginning with the interest payment date of May 15, 2025 for the 2030 Subordinated Notes and beginning with the interest payment date of May 15, 2030 for the 2035 Subordinated Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Subordinated Notes being redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to but excluding the date of redemption.

The 2030 Subordinated Notes bear interest at a rate of 5.75% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears commencing on November 15, 2020. The interest rate for the 2030 Subordinated Notes will reset quarterly beginning May 15, 2025 to an interest rate, per year, equal to the then-current benchmark rate, which is expected to be three-month term SOFR rate, plus 5.68%, payable quarterly in arrears. The 2035 Subordinated Notes bear interest at a rate of 6.125% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears commencing on November 15, 2020. The interest rate for the 2035 Subordinated Notes will reset quarterly beginning May 15, 2030 to an interest rate, per year, equal to the then-current benchmark rate, which is expected to be three-month term SOFR rate plus 5.80%, payable quarterly in arrears. At September 30, 2020, $200 million of our Subordinated Notes was outstanding.

Junior Subordinated Debentures

The Debentures have a stated term of 30 years with maturities ranging from July 2031 to February 2038 with interest payable quarterly. The rate on the Debentures, which resets quarterly, is three-month LIBOR plus an average spread of 3.22%. The total average interest rate at September 30, 2020 was 3.47%. The Debentures are callable at PCC’s discretion with a minimum of a 45- to 60- day notice. At September 30, 2020, $67.0 million of PCC’s Debentures were outstanding.

Regulatory Capital

We are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements may prompt certain actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Under capital adequacy and regulatory requirements, we must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of our assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Our capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors.

In order to avoid limitations on capital distributions, including dividend payments, stock repurchases and certain discretionary bonus payments to executive officers, Basel III requires banking organizations to maintain a capital conservation buffer above minimum risk-based capital requirements measured relative to risk-weighted assets.

Bank holding companies with less than $15 billion in assets as of December 31, 2009 are allowed to continue to include junior subordinated debentures in Tier 1 capital, subject to certain restrictions. However, if an institution grows to above $15 billion in assets as a result of an acquisition, or organically grows to above $15 billion in assets and then makes an acquisition, the combined trust preferred issuances must be phased out of Tier 1 and into Tier 2 capital. All of the debentures issued to the PCC Statutory Trusts I, II, III and IV (the “Trusts”), less the common stock of the Trusts, qualified as Tier 1 capital as of September 30, 2020, under guidance issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.

Actual capital amounts and ratios as of September 30, 2020 reflect PlainsCapital’s and Hilltop’s decision to elect the transition option as issued by the federal banking regulatory agencies in March 2020 that permits banking institutions to mitigate the estimated cumulative regulatory capital effects from CECL over a five-year transitionary period.

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At September 30, 2020, Hilltop had a total capital to risk weighted assets ratio of 23.22%, Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets ratio of 20.46%, common equity Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets ratio of 19.85% and a Tier 1 capital to average assets, or leverage, ratio of 13.03%. Accordingly, Hilltop’s actual capital amounts and ratios in accordance with Basel III exceeded the regulatory capital requirements including conservation buffer in effect at the end of the period.

At September 30, 2020, PlainsCapital had a total capital to risk weighted assets ratio of 15.49%, Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets ratio of 14.64%, common equity Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets ratio of 14.64% and a Tier 1 capital to average assets, or leverage, ratio of 10.19%. Accordingly, PlainsCapital’s actual capital amounts and ratios in accordance with Basel III resulted in it being considered “well-capitalized” and exceeded the regulatory capital requirements including conservation buffer in effect at the end of the period.

We discuss regulatory capital requirements in more detail in Note 16 to our consolidated financial statements, as well as under the caption “Government Supervision and Regulation — Corporate — Capital Adequacy Requirements and BASEL III” set forth in Part I, Item I. of our 2019 Form 10-K.

Banking Segment

Within our banking segment, our primary uses of cash are for customer withdrawals and extensions of credit as well as our borrowing costs and other operating expenses. Our asset and liability group is responsible for continuously monitoring our liquidity position to ensure that our assets and liabilities are managed in a manner that will meet our short-term and long-term cash requirements. Our goal is to manage our liquidity position in a manner such that we can meet our customers’ short-term and long-term deposit withdrawals and anticipated and unanticipated increases in loan demand without penalizing earnings. Funds invested in short-term marketable instruments, the continuous maturing of other interest-earning assets, cash flows from self-liquidating investments such as mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations, the possible sale of available for sale securities and the ability to securitize certain types of loans provide sources of liquidity from an asset perspective. The liability base provides sources of liquidity through deposits and the maturity structure of short-term borrowed funds. For short-term liquidity needs, we utilize federal fund lines of credit with correspondent banks, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, borrowings from the Federal Reserve and borrowings under lines of credit with other financial institutions. For intermediate liquidity needs, we utilize advances from the FHLB. To supply liquidity over the longer term, we have access to brokered time deposits, term loans at the FHLB and borrowings under lines of credit with other financial institutions.

As previously discussed, to meet increased liquidity demands, to ensure we have adequate cash readily available to meet both expected and unexpected funding needs without adversely affecting our daily operations and to improve the Bank’s already strong liquidity position, we raised brokered deposits that totaled $1.0 billion at September 30, 2020, down from $1.4 billion at June 30, 2020. Further, beginning in March 2020, an additional $200 million of deposits was swept from Hilltop Securities into the Bank, bringing the total funds swept from Hilltop Securities to approximately $1.5 billion until June 2020 when the total funds swept was reduced back to $1.3 billion at June 30, 2020. During the third quarter of 2020, given the continued strong cash and liquidity levels at the Bank, the total funds swept from Hilltop Securities into the Bank was reduced further to approximately $900 million as of September 30, 2020. As a result, the Bank was able to further fortify its borrowing capacity through access to secured funding sources as summarized in the following table (in millions).

September 30,

December 31,

2020

2019

FHLB capacity

$

4,216

$

3,207

Investment portfolio

 

1,011

 

683

Fed deposits (excess daily requirements)

1,123

217

Fed discount window

 

292

 

290

$

6,642

$

4,397

As noted in the table above, the Bank’s available liquidity position and borrowing capacity at September 30, 2020 is at a heightened level given the uncertain outlook for 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the extent to which COVID-19 will impact the Bank is uncertain, the Bank is targeting available liquidity of between approximately $5 billion and $6 billion during the remainder of 2020.

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Within our banking segment, deposit flows are affected by the level of market interest rates, the interest rates and products offered by competitors, the volatility of equity markets and other factors. The Bank regularly evaluates its deposit products and pricing structures relative to the market to maintain competitiveness over time.

The Bank’s 15 largest depositors, excluding Hilltop and Hilltop Securities, collectively accounted for 9.86% of the Bank’s total deposits, and the Bank’s five largest depositors, excluding Hilltop and Hilltop Securities, collectively accounted for 4.75% of the Bank’s total deposits at September 30, 2020. The loss of one or more of our largest Bank customers, or a significant decline in our deposit balances due to ordinary course fluctuations related to these customers’ businesses, could adversely affect our liquidity and might require us to raise deposit rates to attract new deposits, purchase federal funds or borrow funds on a short-term basis to replace such deposits.

Broker-Dealer Segment

The Hilltop Broker-Dealers rely on their equity capital, short-term bank borrowings, interest-bearing and non-interest-bearing client credit balances, correspondent deposits, securities lending arrangements, repurchase agreement financing, commercial paper issuances and other payables to finance their assets and operations, subject to their respective compliance with broker-dealer net capital and customer protection rules. At September 30, 2020, Hilltop Securities had credit arrangements with five unaffiliated banks, with maximum aggregate commitments of up to $725.0 million. These credit arrangements are used to finance securities owned, securities held for correspondent accounts, receivables in customer margin accounts and underwriting activities. These credit arrangements are provided on an “as offered” basis and are not committed lines of credit. In addition, Hilltop Securities has committed revolving credit facilities with three unaffiliated banks, with aggregate availability of up to $250.0 million. At September 30, 2020, Hilltop Securities had borrowed $103.5 million under its credit arrangements and had no borrowings under its credit facilities.

During the fourth quarter of 2019, Hilltop Securities initiated two commercial paper programs, in the ordinary course of its business, of which the net proceeds (after deducting related issuance expenses) from the sale will be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital and the funding of a portion of its securities inventories. The commercial paper notes (“CP Notes”) may be issued with maturities of 14 days to 270 days from the date of issuance. The CP Notes are issued under two separate programs, Series 2019-1 CP Notes and Series 2019-2 CP Notes, in maximum aggregate amounts of $300 million and $200 million, respectively. The CP Notes are not redeemable prior to maturity or subject to voluntary prepayment and do not bear interest, but are sold at a discount to par. The discount to maturity will be based on an interest factor and the CP Notes are secured by a pledge of collateral owned by Hilltop Securities. As of September 30, 2020, the weighted average maturity of the CP Notes was 154 days at a rate of 1.65%. At September 30, 2020, the aggregate amount outstanding under these secured arrangements was $265.8 million, which was collateralized by securities held for firm accounts valued at $171.6 million.

Mortgage Origination Segment

PrimeLending funds the mortgage loans it originates through warehouse lines of credit maintained with the Bank, which have an aggregate commitment of $3.3 billion, of which $2.2 billion was drawn at September 30, 2020. PrimeLending sells substantially all mortgage loans it originates to various investors in the secondary market. As these mortgage loans are sold in the secondary market, PrimeLending pays down its warehouse line of credit with the Bank. In addition, PrimeLending has an available line of credit with an unaffiliated bank of up to $1.0 million, of which no borrowings were drawn at September 30, 2020.

PrimeLending owns a 100% membership interest in PrimeLending Ventures Management, LLC (“Ventures Management”) which holds an ownership interest in and is the managing member of certain ABAs. At September 30, 2020, these ABAs had combined available lines of credit totaling $180.0 million, $60.0 million of which was with a single unaffiliated bank, and the remaining $120.0 million of which was with the Bank. At September 30, 2020, Ventures Management had outstanding borrowings of $61.9 million, $11.5 million of which was with the Bank.

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Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices

Our consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared in accordance with GAAP, which presently require us to measure financial position and operating results primarily in terms of historic dollars. Changes in the relative value of money due to inflation or recession are generally not considered. The primary effect of inflation on our operations is reflected in increased operating costs. In management’s opinion, changes in interest rates affect the financial condition of a financial institution to a far greater degree than changes in the inflation rate. While interest rates are greatly influenced by changes in the inflation rate, they do not necessarily change at the same rate or in the same magnitude as the inflation rate. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond our control, including changes in the expected rate of inflation, the influence of general and local economic conditions and the monetary and fiscal policies of the U.S. government, its agencies and various other governmental regulatory authorities.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements; Commitments; Guarantees

In the normal course of business, we enter into various transactions, which, in accordance with GAAP, are not included in our consolidated balance sheets. We enter into these transactions to meet the financing needs of our customers. These transactions include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit, which involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk and interest rate risk in excess of the amounts recognized in our consolidated balance sheets.

Banking

We enter into contractual loan commitments to extend credit, normally with fixed expiration dates or termination clauses, at specified rates and for specific purposes. Substantially all of our commitments to extend credit are contingent upon customers maintaining specific credit standards until the time of loan funding. We minimize our exposure to loss under these commitments by subjecting them to credit approval and monitoring procedures. We assess the credit risk associated with certain commitments to extend credit and have recorded a liability related to such credit risk in our consolidated financial statements.

Standby letters of credit are written conditional commitments issued by us to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. In the event the customer does not perform in accordance with the terms of the agreement with the third party, we would be required to fund the commitment. The maximum potential amount of future payments we could be required to make is represented by the contractual amount of the commitment. If the commitment is funded, we would be entitled to seek recovery from the customer. Our policies generally require that standby letter of credit arrangements contain security and debt covenants similar to those contained in loan agreements.

In the aggregate, the Bank had outstanding unused commitments to extend credit of $1.9 billion at September 30, 2020 and outstanding financial and performance standby letters of credit of $90.1 million at September 30, 2020.

Broker-Dealer

In the normal course of business, the Hilltop Broker-Dealers execute, settle and finance various securities transactions that may expose the Hilltop Broker-Dealers to off-balance sheet risk in the event that a customer or counterparty does not fulfill its contractual obligations. Examples of such transactions include the sale of securities not yet purchased by customers or for the account of the Hilltop Broker-Dealers, use of derivatives to support certain non-profit housing organization clients, clearing agreements between the Hilltop Broker-Dealers and various clearinghouses and broker-dealers, secured financing arrangements that involve pledged securities, and when-issued underwriting and purchase commitments.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our accounting policies are fundamental to understanding our management’s discussion and analysis of our results of operations and financial condition. We have identified certain significant accounting policies which involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity in making certain estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements. Actual amounts and values as of the balance sheet dates may be materially different than the amounts and values reported due to the inherent uncertainty in the estimation process. Also, future amounts and values could differ materially from those estimates due to changes in values and circumstances after the balance sheet date. The significant accounting policies which we believe to be the most critical in preparing our consolidated financial

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statements relate to allowance for credit losses, goodwill and identifiable intangible assets, mortgage loan indemnification liability, mortgage servicing rights asset and acquisition accounting. Since December 31, 2019, we have updated our critical accounting policies and estimates related to the allowance for credit losses as a result of the adoption of CECL on January 1, 2020. In addition, as a result of the sale of our insurance segment on June 30, 2020, we have concluded that the reserve for losses and LAE is not a significant accounting policy and estimate. There have been no other changes in critical accounting policies as further described under “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” and Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our 2019 Form 10-K.

Allowance for Credit Losses

The allowance for credit losses for loans represents management’s estimate of all expected credit losses over the expected contractual life of our existing loan portfolio. Determining the appropriateness of the allowance is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Subsequent evaluations of the then-existing loan portfolio, in light of the factors then prevailing, may result in significant changes in the allowance for credit losses in those future periods.

We employ a disciplined process and methodology to establish our allowance for credit losses that has two basic components: first, an asset-specific component involving individual loans that do not share risk characteristics with other loans and the measurement of expected credit losses for such individual loans; and second, a pooled component for estimated expected credit losses for pools of loans that share similar risk characteristics.

The credit loss estimation process for both on and off-balance sheet exposures involves procedures to appropriately consider the unique characteristics of our loan portfolio segments, which are further disaggregated into loan classes, the level at which credit risk is monitored. When computing allowance levels, credit loss assumptions are estimated using models that analyze loans according to credit risk ratings, loss history, delinquency status and other credit trends and risk characteristics, including current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future. Significant variables that impact the modeled losses across our loan portfolios are the U.S. Real Gross Domestic Product, or GDP, growth rates and unemployment rate assumptions. Future factors and forecasts may result in significant changes in the allowance and provision for (reversal of) credit losses in those future periods.

Credit quality is assessed and monitored by evaluating various attributes, such as credit risk ratings, historic loss experience, past due status and other credit trends and risk characteristics, including current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future. The results of these continuous credit quality evaluations help form our underwriting criteria for new loans and also factor into the process for estimation of the allowance for credit losses. The allowance level is influenced by loan volumes, loan asset quality, delinquency status, historic loss experience and other conditions influencing loss expectations, such as reasonable and supportable forecasts of economic conditions. The allowance for credit losses will primarily reflect estimated losses for pools of loans that share similar risk characteristics, but will also consider individual loans that do not share risk characteristics with other loans.

In estimating the component of the allowance for credit losses for loans that share similar risk characteristics with other loans, such loans are segregated into loan classes. Loans are designated into loan classes based on loans pooled by product types and similar risk characteristics or areas of risk concentration. In determining the allowance for credit losses, we derive an estimated credit loss assumption from a model that categorizes loan pools based on loan type and internal risk rating or delinquency bucket.

When a loan moves to a substandard non-accrual risk rating grade, it is removed from the collective evaluation allowance methodology and is subject to individual evaluation. A problem asset report is prepared for each loan in excess of a predetermined threshold and the net realizable value of the loan is determined. This value is compared to the appropriate loan basis (depending on whether the loan is a PCD loan or a non-PCD loan) to determine the required allowance for credit loss reserve amount.

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Estimating the timing and amounts of future loss cash flows is subject to significant management judgment as these loss cash flows rely upon estimates such as default rates, loss severities, collateral valuations, the amounts and timing of principal payments (including any expected prepayments) or other factors that are reflective of current or future expected conditions. These estimates, in turn, depend on the duration of current overall economic conditions, industry, borrower, or portfolio specific conditions, the expected outcome of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, as well as, in certain circumstances, other economic factors, including the level of current and future real estate prices. All of these estimates and assumptions require significant management judgment and certain assumptions that are highly subjective. Model imprecision also exists in the allowance for credit losses estimation process due to the inherent time lag of available industry information and differences between expected and actual outcomes. 

The provision for (reversal of) credit losses recorded through earnings, and reduced by the charge-off of loan amounts, net of recoveries, is the amount necessary to maintain the allowance for credit losses at the amount of expected credit losses inherent within the loans held for investment portfolio. The amount of expense and the corresponding level of allowance for credit losses for loans are based on our evaluation of the collectability of the loan portfolio based on historical loss experience, reasonable and supportable forecasts, and other significant qualitative and quantitative factors.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

Our assessment of market risk as of September 30, 2020 indicates there are no material changes in the quantitative and qualitative disclosures from those previously reported in our 2019 Form 10-K, except as discussed below.

The primary objective of the following information is to provide forward-looking quantitative and qualitative information about our potential exposure to market risks. Market risk represents the risk of loss that may result from changes in value of a financial instrument as a result of changes in interest rates, market prices and the credit perception of an issuer. The disclosure is not meant to be a precise indicator of expected future losses, but rather an indicator of reasonably possible losses, and therefore our actual results may differ from any of the following projections. This forward-looking information provides an indicator of how we view and manage our ongoing market risk exposures.

Banking Segment

The banking segment is engaged primarily in the business of investing funds obtained from deposits and borrowings in interest-earning loans and investments, and our primary component of market risk is sensitivity to changes in interest rates. Consequently, our earnings depend to a significant extent on our net interest income, which is the difference between interest income on loans and investments and our interest expense on deposits and borrowings. To the extent that our interest-bearing liabilities do not reprice or mature at the same time as our interest-bearing assets, we are subject to interest rate risk and corresponding fluctuations in net interest income.

There are several common sources of interest rate risk that must be effectively managed if there is to be minimal impact on our earnings and capital. Repricing risk arises largely from timing differences in the pricing of assets and liabilities. Reinvestment risk refers to the reinvestment of cash flows from interest payments and maturing assets at lower or higher rates. Basis risk exists when different yield curves or pricing indices do not change at precisely the same time or in the same magnitude such that assets and liabilities with the same maturity are not all affected equally. Yield curve risk refers to unequal movements in interest rates across a full range of maturities.

We have employed asset/liability management policies that attempt to manage our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, thereby attempting to control the volatility of net interest income, without having to incur unacceptable levels of risk. We employ procedures which include interest rate shock analysis, repricing gap analysis and balance sheet decomposition techniques to help mitigate interest rate risk in the ordinary course of business. In addition, the asset/liability management policies permit the use of various derivative instruments to manage interest rate risk or hedge specified assets and liabilities.

An interest rate sensitive asset or liability is one that, within a defined time period, either matures or experiences an interest rate change in line with general market interest rates. The management of interest rate risk is performed by analyzing the maturity and repricing relationships between interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities at specific points in time (“GAP”) and by analyzing the effects of interest rate changes on net interest income over specific periods of time by projecting the performance of the mix of assets and liabilities in varied interest rate environments. Interest rate sensitivity reflects the potential effect on net interest income resulting from a movement in interest rates. A

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company is considered to be asset sensitive, or have a positive GAP, when the amount of its interest-earning assets maturing or repricing within a given period exceeds the amount of its interest-bearing liabilities also maturing or repricing within that time period. Conversely, a company is considered to be liability sensitive, or have a negative GAP, when the amount of its interest-bearing liabilities maturing or repricing within a given period exceeds the amount of its interest-earning assets also maturing or repricing within that time period. During a period of rising interest rates, a negative GAP would tend to affect net interest income adversely, while a positive GAP would tend to result in an increase in net interest income. During a period of falling interest rates, a negative GAP would tend to result in an increase in net interest income, while a positive GAP would tend to affect net interest income adversely. However, it is our intent to remain relatively balanced so that changes in rates do not have a significant impact on earnings.

As illustrated in the table below, the banking segment is asset sensitive overall. Loans that adjust daily or monthly to the Wall Street Journal Prime rate comprise a large percentage of interest sensitive assets and are the primary cause of the banking segment’s asset sensitivity. To help neutralize interest rate sensitivity, the banking segment has kept the terms of most of its borrowings under one year as shown in the following table (dollars in thousands).

September 30, 2020

 

   

3 Months or

    

> 3 Months to

    

> 1 Year to

    

> 3 Years to

    

    

 

Less

1 Year

3 Years

5 Years

> 5 Years

Total

 

Interest sensitive assets:

Loans

$

5,745,228

$

1,259,028

$

2,201,813

$

383,884

$

86,246

$

9,676,199

Securities

 

278,752

 

233,591

 

436,714

 

273,622

 

392,142

 

1,614,821

Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell

 

420

 

 

 

 

 

420

Other interest sensitive assets

 

1,132,488

 

 

 

 

29,376

 

1,161,864

Total interest sensitive assets

 

7,156,888

 

1,492,619

 

2,638,527

 

657,506

 

507,764

 

12,453,304

Interest sensitive liabilities:

Interest bearing checking

$

5,379,301

$

$

$

$

$

5,379,301

Savings

 

251,027

 

 

 

 

 

251,027

Time deposits

 

512,266

 

1,137,507

 

358,207

 

68,878

 

73

 

2,076,931

Notes payable and other borrowings

 

149,221

 

225

 

695

 

862

 

3,170

 

154,173

Total interest sensitive liabilities

 

6,291,815

 

1,137,732

 

358,902

 

69,740

 

3,243

 

7,861,432

Interest sensitivity gap

$

865,073

$

354,887

$

2,279,625

$

587,766

$

504,521

$

4,591,872

Cumulative interest sensitivity gap

$

865,073

$

1,219,960

$

3,499,585

$

4,087,351

$

4,591,872

Percentage of cumulative gap to total interest sensitive assets

 

6.95

 

9.80

%  

 

28.10

%  

 

32.82

%  

 

36.87

%  

The positive GAP in the interest rate analysis indicates that banking segment net interest income would generally rise if rates increase. Because of inherent limitations in interest rate GAP analysis, the banking segment uses multiple interest rate risk measurement techniques. Simulation analysis is used to subject the current repricing conditions to rising and falling interest rates in increments and decrements of 1%, 2% and 3% to determine the effect on net interest income changes for the next twelve months. The banking segment also measures the effects of changes in interest rates on economic value of equity by discounting projected cash flows of deposits and loans. Economic value changes in the investment portfolio are estimated by discounting future cash flows and using duration analysis. Investment security prepayments are estimated using current market information. We believe the simulation analysis presents a more accurate picture than the GAP analysis. Simulation analysis recognizes that deposit products may not react to changes in interest rates as quickly or with the same magnitude as earning assets contractually tied to a market rate index. The sensitivity to changes in market rates varies across deposit products. Also, unlike GAP analysis, simulation analysis takes into account the effect of embedded options in the securities and loan portfolios as well as any off-balance sheet derivatives.

The table below shows the estimated impact of a range of changes in interest rates on net interest income and on economic value of equity for the banking segment at September 30, 2020 (dollars in thousands).

Change in

Changes in

Changes in

 

Interest Rates

Net Interest Income

Economic Value of Equity

 

(basis points)

    

Amount

    

Percent

    

Amount

    

Percent

 

+200

$

28,036

 

8.00

%  

$

487,177

 

31.79

%

+100

$

4,408

 

1.26

%  

$

264,246

 

17.24

%

-50

$

(2,664)

 

(0.76)

%  

$

(216,951)

 

(14.16)

%

-100

$

(5,265)

 

(1.50)

%  

$

(305,994)

 

(19.97)

%

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The projected changes in net interest income and economic value of equity to changes in interest rates at September 30, 2020 were in compliance with established internal policy guidelines. These projected changes are based on numerous assumptions of growth and changes in the mix of assets or liabilities.

Our portfolio includes loans that periodically reprice or mature prior to the end of an amortized term. Some of our variable-rate loans remain at applicable rate floors, which may delay and/or limit changes in interest income during a period of changing rates. If interest rates were to fall, the impact on our interest income would be limited by these rate floors. In addition, declining interest rates may negatively affect our cost of funds on deposits. The extent of this impact will ultimately be driven by the timing, magnitude and frequency of interest rate and yield curve movements, as well as changes in market conditions and timing of management strategies. If interest rates were to rise, yields on the portion of our portfolio that remain at applicable rate floors would rise more slowly than increases in market interest rates. Any changes in interest rates across the term structure will continue to impact net interest income and net interest margin. The impact of rate movements will change with the shape of the yield curve, including any changes in steepness or flatness and inversions at any points on the yield curve.

Broker-Dealer Segment

Our broker-dealer segment is exposed to market risk primarily due to its role as a financial intermediary in customer transactions, which may include purchases and sales of securities, use of derivatives and securities lending activities, and in our trading activities, which are used to support sales, underwriting and other customer activities. We are subject to the risk of loss that may result from the potential change in value of a financial instrument as a result of fluctuations in interest rates, market prices, investor expectations and changes in credit ratings of the issuer.

Our broker-dealer segment is exposed to interest rate risk as a result of maintaining inventories of interest rate sensitive financial instruments and other interest-earning assets including customer and correspondent margin loans and receivables and securities borrowing activities. Our funding sources, which include customer and correspondent cash balances, bank borrowings, repurchase agreements and securities lending activities, also expose the broker-dealer to interest rate risk. Movement in short-term interest rates could reduce the positive spread between the broker-dealer segment’s interest income and interest expense.

With respect to securities held, our interest rate risk is managed by setting and monitoring limits on the size and duration of positions and on the length of time securities can be held. Much of the interest rates on customer and correspondent margin loans and receivables are indexed and can vary daily. Our funding sources are generally short term with interest rates that can vary daily.

The following table categorizes the broker-dealer segment’s net trading securities which are subject to interest rate and market price risk (dollars in thousands).

September 30, 2020

1 Year

> 1 Year

> 5 Years

or Less

to 5 Years

to 10 Years

> 10 Years

Total

Trading securities, at fair value

Municipal obligations

$

1,574

$

5,984

$

38,997

$

88,513

$

135,068

U.S. government and government agency obligations

70,673

(8,080)

(3,579)

371,663

430,677

Corporate obligations

1,057

16,690

5,407

22,650

45,804

Total debt securities

73,304

14,594

40,825

482,826

611,549

Corporate equity securities

(4,375)

(4,375)

Other

3,467

3,467

$

72,396

$

14,594

$

40,825

$

482,826

$

610,641

Weighted average yield

Municipal obligations

0.00

%  

0.81

%  

1.43

%  

3.00

%  

2.41

%  

U.S. government and government agency obligations

0.06

%  

0.26

%  

0.70

%  

2.55

%  

2.10

%  

Corporate obligations

1.20

%  

3.55

%  

2.89

%  

2.99

%  

3.03

%  

Derivatives are used to support certain customer programs and hedge our related exposure to interest rate risks.

Our broker-dealer segment is engaged in various brokerage and trading activities that expose us to credit risk arising from potential non-performance from counterparties, customers or issuers of securities. This risk is managed by setting

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and monitoring position limits for each counterparty, conducting periodic credit reviews of counterparties, reviewing concentrations of securities and conducting business through central clearing organizations.

Collateral underlying margin loans to customers and correspondents and with respect to securities lending activities is marked to market daily and additional collateral is required as necessary.

Mortgage Origination Segment

Within our mortgage origination segment, our principal market exposure is to interest rate risk due to the impact on our mortgage-related assets and commitments, including mortgage loans held for sale, IRLCs and MSR. Changes in interest rates could also materially and adversely affect our volume of mortgage loan originations.

IRLCs represent an agreement to extend credit to a mortgage loan applicant, whereby the interest rate on the loan is set prior to funding. Our mortgage loans held for sale, which we hold in inventory while awaiting sale into the secondary market, and our IRLCs are subject to the effects of changes in mortgage interest rates from the date of the commitment through the sale of the loan into the secondary market. As a result, we are exposed to interest rate risk and related price risk during the period from the date of the lock commitment until (i) the lock commitment cancellation or expiration date or (ii) the date of sale into the secondary mortgage market. Loan commitments generally range from 20 to 60 days, and our average holding period of the mortgage loan from funding to sale is approximately 30 days. An integral component of our interest rate risk management strategy is our execution of forward commitments to sell MBSs to minimize the impact on earnings resulting from significant fluctuations in the fair value of mortgage loans held for sale and IRLCs caused by changes in interest rates.

We have expanded, and may continue to expand, our residential mortgage servicing operations within our mortgage origination segment. As a result of our mortgage servicing business, we have a portfolio of retained MSR. One of the principal risks associated with MSR is that in a declining interest rate environment, they will likely lose a substantial portion of their value as a result of higher than anticipated prepayments. Moreover, if prepayments are greater than expected, the cash we receive over the life of the mortgage loans would be reduced. The mortgage origination segment uses derivative financial instruments, including U.S. Treasury bond futures and options, Eurodollar futures and forward MBS commitments, as a means to mitigate market risk associated with MSR assets. No hedging strategy can protect us completely, and hedging strategies may fail because they are improperly designed, improperly executed and documented or based on inaccurate assumptions and, as a result, could actually increase our risks and losses. The increasing size of our MSR portfolio may increase our interest rate risk and, correspondingly, the volatility of our earnings, especially if we cannot adequately hedge the interest rate risk relating to our MSR.

The goal of our interest rate risk management strategy within our mortgage origination segment is not to eliminate interest rate risk, but to manage it within appropriate limits. To mitigate the risk of loss, we have established policies and procedures, which include guidelines on the amount of exposure to interest rate changes we are willing to accept.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures.

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the supervision and participation of our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report.

Based upon that evaluation, our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer concluded that as of the end of the period covered by this report our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective because of a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting.

As previously reported, during the fourth quarter of 2019, management identified a control deficiency that constituted a material weakness as of December 31, 2018 and determined that the Company did not design and maintain effective controls over certain aspects relating to the determination of the qualitative factors considered by management in the allowance for credit losses estimation process, specifically control activities to adequately support the analysis and the impact of such support on the loss measurement. This control deficiency did not result in a misstatement of the Company’s consolidated financial statements. However, this control deficiency could result in misstatements of the

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interim or annual consolidated financial statements and disclosures that would result in a material misstatement that would not be prevented or detected.

Notwithstanding the identified material weakness, management believes that the condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q provide a fair statement of, in all material respects, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows as of and for the periods presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Update on Remediation of Previously Reported Material Weakness

The Company and its Board of Directors are committed to maintaining a strong internal control environment. Management has evaluated the material weakness described above and believes that it has completed its updates to the design and implementation of internal controls to remediate the aforementioned deficiency and enhance the Company’s internal control environment. As previously reported, the remediation plan was implemented during the fourth quarter of 2019 and included an enhanced analysis to support the qualitative factors considered in the estimation of the allowance for loan losses as of December 31, 2019. Management believes that such enhanced controls, including new controls implemented as a part of the adoption of CECL on January 1, 2020, have been designed to address the material weakness and were implemented as of March 31, 2020. However, in order to fully evaluate the remediation efforts , management will continue to test and validate that the enhanced controls are operating for a sufficient period of time. We expect the remediation of this material weakness will be completed prior to the end of fiscal year 2020.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The remediation efforts described above, as well as the implementation of general ledger replacements within our banking and mortgage origination segments, as well as at corporate, led to changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the fiscal quarter covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

We have not experienced any material impact to our internal controls over financial reporting resulting from the majority of our workforce working remotely since March 23, 2020. In early September 2020, a majority of our employees began the process of returning to their respective office locations based on rotational team schedules. We are continually monitoring and assessing the impact of remote work arrangements during the COVID-19 pandemic on the design and operating effectiveness of our internal controls.

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings.

For a description of material pending legal proceedings, see the discussion set forth under the heading “Legal Matters” in Note 13 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, which is incorporated by reference herein.

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

The following risk factors represent material changes to the risk factors disclosed under “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of our 2019 Form 10-K. For additional information concerning our risk factors, please refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of our 2019 Form 10-K.

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus ("COVID-19") has adversely affected, and will likely continue to adversely affect, our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations.

The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected the global economy and our business, and we believe that it is likely to continue to do so. Since the beginning of January 2020, the outbreak has caused significant volatility and disruption in the financial markets both globally and in the United States. If COVID-19, or another highly infectious or contagious disease, continues to spread or the response to contain it is unsuccessful, we could experience material adverse effects on our business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations. The extent of such effects depends on future developments that are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including the geographic spread of the virus, the overall severity of the disease, the duration of the outbreak, the measures that have be taken, or future measures, by various governmental authorities in response to the outbreak (such as quarantines, shelter-in-place orders and travel restrictions) and the possible further impacts on the global economy.

We are generally exposed to the credit risk that third parties that owe us money, securities or other assets will fail to meet their obligations to us due to numerous causes, and this risk may be exacerbated by the macroeconomic effects of COVID-19. We lend to businesses and individuals, including through offering commercial and industrial loans, commercial and residential mortgage loans and other loans generally collateralized by assets. We also incur credit risk through our investments. Our credit risk and credit losses may increase to the extent our loans or investments are to borrowers or issuers who as a group may be uniquely or disproportionately affected by declining economic or market conditions as a result of COVID-19, such as those operating in the travel, lodging, retail, entertainment and energy industries. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the significant build in the allowance for credit losses at our Bank was primarily due to the market disruption and related economic uncertainties caused by COVID-19. We may incur further unexpected losses, and the deterioration of an individually large exposure due to COVID-19 could lead to additional credit loss provisions and/or charges-offs, or credit impairment of our investments, and subsequently have a material impact on our net income, regulatory capital and liquidity.

The continuation of the adverse economic conditions caused by the pandemic can be expected to have a significant adverse effect on our businesses and results of operations, including:

further increases in the allowance for credit losses and possible recognition of credit losses, especially if businesses remain closed or substantially limited in their operating capacity, unemployment continues to rise and clients and customers draw on their lines of credit or seek additional loans to help finance their businesses;
possible constraints on liquidity and capital, whether due to increases in risk-weighted assets related to supporting client activities or to regulatory actions, and
the possibility that significant portions of our workforce are unable to work effectively, including because of illness, quarantines, sheltering-in-place arrangements, government actions or other restrictions related to the pandemic.

We also could experience a material reduction in trading volume and lower securities prices in times of market volatility, which would result in lower brokerage revenues, including losses on firm inventory. The fair values of certain of our investments could also be negatively impacted, resulting in unrealized or realized losses on such investments.

Moreover, certain actions taken by U.S. or other governmental authorities, including the Federal Reserve, that are intended to ameliorate the macroeconomic effects of COVID-19 may cause additional harm to our business. Decreases in short-term interest rates, such as those announced by the Federal Reserve late in our 2019 fiscal year and during the

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first fiscal quarter of 2020, have had, and we expect that they will continue to have, a negative impact on our results of operations, as we have certain assets and liabilities that are sensitive to changes in interest rates.

The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affects our businesses, results of operations and financial condition, as well as our regulatory capital and liquidity ratios, will depend on future developments that are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including the scope and duration of the pandemic and actions taken by governmental authorities and other third parties in response to the pandemic. To the extent the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affects our business, results of operations and financial condition, it may also have the effect of heightening many of the other risks described in the section titled “Risk Factors” in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.

Our allowances for credit losses for loans and debt securities may prove inadequate or we may be negatively affected by credit risk exposures. Also, future additions to our allowance for credit losses will reduce our future earnings.

As a lender, we are exposed to the risk that we could sustain losses because our borrowers may not repay their loans in accordance with the terms of their loans. We maintain allowances for credit losses for loans and debt securities to provide for defaults and nonperformance, which represent an estimate of expected losses over the remaining contractual lives of the loan and debt security portfolios. This estimate is the result of our continuing evaluation of specific credit risks and loss experience, current loan and debt security portfolio quality, present economic, political and regulatory conditions, industry concentrations, reasonable and supportable forecasts for future conditions and other factors that may indicate losses. The determination of the appropriate levels of the allowances for loan and debt security credit losses inherently involves a high degree of subjectivity and judgment and requires us to make estimates of current credit risks and future trends, all of which may undergo material changes. Generally, our nonperforming loans and OREO reflect operating difficulties of individual borrowers and weaknesses in the economies of the markets we serve.

Under the acquisition method of accounting requirements, we were required to estimate the fair value of the loan portfolios acquired in each of the PlainsCapital Merger, the FNB Transaction, the SWS Merger and the BORO Acquisition (collectively, the “Bank Transactions”) as of the applicable acquisition date and write down the recorded value of each such acquired portfolio to the applicable estimate. For most loans, this process was accomplished by computing the net present value of estimated cash flows to be received from borrowers of such loans. The allowance for credit losses that had been maintained by PCC, FNB, SWS or BORO, as applicable, prior to their respective transactions, was eliminated in this accounting process. A new allowance for credit losses has been established for loans made by the Bank subsequent to consummation of the PlainsCapital Merger and for any decrease from that originally estimated as of the applicable acquisition date in the estimate of cash flows to be received from the loans acquired in the Bank Transactions.

The estimates of fair value as of the consummation of each of the Bank Transactions were based on economic conditions at such time and on Bank management’s projections concerning both future economic conditions and the ability of the borrowers to continue to repay their loans. If management’s assumptions and projections prove to be incorrect, however, the estimate of fair value may be higher than the actual fair value and we may suffer losses in excess of those estimated. Further, the allowance for credit losses established for new loans or for revised estimates may prove to be inadequate to cover actual losses, especially if economic conditions worsen.

While Bank management will endeavor to estimate the allowance to cover anticipated losses over the lives of our loan and debt security portfolios, no underwriting and credit monitoring policies and procedures that we could adopt to address credit risk could provide complete assurance that we will not incur unexpected losses. These losses could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, federal regulators periodically evaluate the adequacy of our allowance for credit losses and may require us to increase our provision for (reversal of) credit losses or recognize further loan charge-offs based on judgments different from those of Bank management. Any such increase in our provision for (reversal of) credit losses or additional loan charge-offs could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

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As a participating lender in the SBA Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”), the Company and the Bank are subject to additional risks of litigation from the Bank’s clients, or other parties regarding our originating, processing, or servicing of loans under the PPP, and risks that the SBA may not fund some or all PPP loan guaranties.

On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed the CARES Act, which included a $349 billion loan program administered through the SBA referred to as the PPP.

Under the PPP, small businesses and other entities and individuals can apply for loans from existing SBA lenders and other approved regulated lenders that enroll in the program, subject to numerous limitations and eligibility criteria. The Bank is participating as a lender in the PPP. The PPP opened on April 3, 2020; however, because of the short timeframe between the passing of the CARES Act and the opening of the PPP, there is some ambiguity in the laws, rules and guidance regarding the operation of the PPP which exposes the Company to risks relating to noncompliance with the PPP. On or about April 16, 2020, the SBA notified lenders that the $349 billion earmarked for the PPP was exhausted. Congress has approved additional funding for the PPP and President Trump signed the new legislation on April 24, 2020. Since the opening of the PPP, several larger banks have been subject to litigation regarding the process and procedures that such banks used in processing applications for the PPP. The Company and the Bank may be exposed to the risk of litigation, from both clients and non-clients that solicited the Bank for PPP loans, regarding our process and procedures used to process applications for the PPP. If any such litigation is filed against the Company or the Bank and is not resolved in a manner favorable to the Company or the Bank, it may result in significant financial liability or adversely affect the Company’s reputation. In addition, litigation may be costly, regardless of outcome. Any financial liability, litigation costs or reputational damage caused by PPP-related litigation could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The Bank also may have credit risk on PPP loans if a determination is made by the SBA that there is a deficiency in the manner in which loans were originated, funded, or serviced by the Bank, such as an issue with the eligibility of a borrower to receive a PPP loan or the calculation of the maximum PPP loans to which a borrower is entitled, which may or may not be related to the ambiguity in the laws, rules and guidance regarding the operation of the PPP. In the event of a loss resulting from a default on a PPP loan and a determination by the SBA that there is a deficiency in the manner in which the PPP loan was originated, funded, or serviced by the Company, the SBA may deny its liability under the guaranty, reduce the amount of the guaranty, or, if it has already paid under the guaranty, seek recovery of any loss related to the deficiency from the Company.

In addition, the Company’s participation in the PPP as a lender may adversely affect the Company’s revenue and results of operations depending on the timing and amount of forgiveness, if any, to which borrowers are entitled.

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

The following table details our repurchases of shares of common stock during the three months ended September 30, 2020.

Period

    

Total Number of Shares Purchased

    

Average Price Paid per Share

    

Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs

    

Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (1)

 

July 1 - July 31, 2020

 

$

$

59,750,234

August 1 - August 31, 2020

 

59,750,234

September 1 - September 30, 2020

 

59,750,234

Total

$

(1)On January 30, 2020, we announced that our board of directors authorized a stock repurchase program under which we may repurchase, in the aggregate, up to $75.0 million of our outstanding common stock through January 2021, which is inclusive of repurchases to offset dilution related to grants of stock-based compensation. As previously announced on April 30, 2020, in light of the uncertain outlook for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hilltop’s board of directors suspended its stock repurchase program. Hilltop’s board of directors has the ability to reinstate the stock repurchase program at its discretion as circumstances warrant.

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Item 6. Exhibits.

Exhibit
Number

   

Description of Exhibit

2.1#

Stock Purchase Agreement by and among Hilltop Holdings Inc., ARC Insurance Holdings, Inc., Align NL Holdings, LLC and, for limited purposes set forth therein, Align Financial Holdings, LLC and MGI Holdings, Inc., dated January 30, 2020 (filed as Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 5, 2020 (File No. 001-31987) and incorporated herein by reference).

2.2#

First Amendment to Stock Purchase Agreement by and among Hilltop Holdings Inc., ARC Insurance Holdings, Inc., Align NL Holdings, LLC and, for limited purposes set forth therein, Align Financial Holdings, LLC and MGI Holdings, Inc., dated June 30, 2020 (filed as Exhibit 2.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 1, 2020 (File No. 001-31987) and incorporated herein by reference).

10.1

Hilltop Holdings Inc. 2020 Equity Incentive Plan (filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed July 24, 2020 (File No.333-240090) and incorporated herein by reference).

10.2

Hilltop Holdings Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (filed as Exhibit 99.2 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed July 24, 2020 (File No. 333-240090) and incorporated herein by reference).

10.3

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (Performance-Based) for awards beginning in 2020 (filed as Exhibit 99.3 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed July 24, 2020 (File No. 333-240090) and incorporated herein by reference).

10.4

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (Time-Based Vesting for Section 16 Officers) for awards beginning in 2020 (filed as Exhibit 99.4 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed July 24, 2020 (File No. 333-240090) and incorporated herein by reference).

10.5

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (Time-Based Vesting for Non-Section 16 Officers) for awards beginning in 2020 (filed as Exhibit 99.5 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed July 24, 2020 (File No. 333-240090) and incorporated herein by reference).

31.1*

Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

31.2*

Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

32.1*

Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

101.INS

XBRL Instance Document – the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.

101.SCH*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema

101.CAL*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase

101.DEF*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase

101.LAB*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase

101.PRE*

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase

104

Cover Page Interactive File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)

*

Filed herewith.

#

Schedules and similar attachments have been omitted from this Exhibit pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. A copy of any omitted schedule or similar attachment will be furnished to the SEC upon request.

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SIGNATURES

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

HILLTOP HOLDINGS INC.

Date: October 23, 2020

By:

/s/ William B. Furr

William B. Furr

Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer and duly authorized officer)

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