pvbc-20220331x10q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

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

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2022

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

For the transition period from _______________ to ______________________

Commission File No. 001-39090

Provident Bancorp, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Maryland		84-4132422
(State or other jurisdiction of		(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)		Identification Number)

5 Market Street, Amesbury, Massachusetts		01913
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)		Zip Code

(978) 834-8555

(Registrant’s telephone number)


	N/A

(Former name, former address, and former fiscal year if changed since last report)

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	PVBC	The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC

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 requirements for the past 90 days. YES x NO o

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 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). YES x NO o

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	o	Accelerated Filer	o
Non-accelerated Filer	x	Smaller Reporting Company	x
Emerging Growth Company	o

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. o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). YES o NO x

As of May 5, 2022, there were 17,811,377 shares of the Registrant’s common stock, $0.01 par value per share, outstanding.

‎

Provident Bancorp, Inc.

Form 10-Q


Part I.	Financial Information	Page

Item 1.	Interim Financial Statements	2

	Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2022 (unaudited) and December 31, 2021	2

	Consolidated Statements of Income for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 (unaudited)	3

	Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 (unaudited)	4

	Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 (unaudited)	5

	Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 (unaudited)	6

	Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)	8

Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation	26

Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	35

Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	35

Part II.	Other Information	36

Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	35

Item 1A.	Risk Factors	35

Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	35

Item 3.	Defaults upon Senior Securities	36

Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	36

Item 5.	Other Information	36

Item 6.	Exhibits	37

Signatures		38

Part I.Financial Information

Item 1.Financial Statements

PROVIDENT BANCORP, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS



	At		At
	March 31,		December 31,
	2022		2021
(Dollars in thousands)	(unaudited)
Assets
Cash and due from banks	$	24,694	$	22,470
Short-term investments		191,382		130,645
Cash and cash equivalents		216,076		153,115
Debt securities available-for-sale (at fair value)		33,740		36,837
Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost		785		785
Loans held for sale		21,508		22,846
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses of $19,296 and $19,496 as of
March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively		1,437,429		1,433,803
Bank owned life insurance		42,825		42,569
Premises and equipment, net		14,062		14,258
Accrued interest receivable		6,400		5,703
Right-of-use assets		4,062		4,102
Other assets		15,123		15,265
Total assets	$	1,792,010	$	1,729,283

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing	$	747,194	$	626,587
Interest-bearing		775,075		833,308
Total deposits		1,522,269		1,459,895
Long-term borrowings		13,500		13,500
Operating lease liabilities		4,361		4,387
Other liabilities		15,335		17,719
Total liabilities		1,555,465		1,495,501
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock; authorized 50,000 shares:
no shares issued and outstanding		—		—
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized;
17,796,542 and 17,854,649 shares issued and outstanding
at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively		178		179
Additional paid-in capital		122,504		123,498
Retained earnings		122,939		118,087
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income		(625)		649
Unearned compensation - ESOP		(8,451)		(8,631)
Total shareholders' equity		236,545		233,782
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	1,792,010	$	1,729,283

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

PROVIDENT BANCORP, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME



	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
	2022		2021
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)	(unaudited)
Interest and dividend income:
Interest and fees on loans	$	18,212	$	15,697
Interest and dividends on debt securities available-for-sale		179		169
Interest on short-term investments		59		23
Total interest and dividend income		18,450		15,889
Interest expense:
Interest on deposits		455		911
Interest on borrowings		70		70
Total interest expense		525		981
Net interest and dividend income		17,925		14,908
Provision for loan losses		83		753
Net interest and dividend income after provision for loan losses		17,842		14,155
Noninterest income:
Customer service fees on deposit accounts		581		379
Service charges and fees - other		376		350
Bank owned life insurance income		256		219
Other income		107		70
Total noninterest income		1,320		1,018
Noninterest expense:
Salaries and employee benefits		7,189		6,477
Occupancy expense		439		412
Equipment expense		138		122
Deposit insurance		151		106
Data processing		335		321
Marketing expense		127		37
Professional fees		728		431
Directors' compensation		254		254
Software depreciation and implementation		294		246
Write down of other assets and receivables		395		—
Insurance expense		447		34
Other		914		773
Total noninterest expense		11,411		9,213
Income before income tax expense		7,751		5,960
Income tax expense		2,226		1,663
Net income	$	5,525	$	4,297
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.33	$	0.25
Diluted	$	0.32	$	0.24
Weighted Average Shares:
Basic		16,517,952		17,263,759
Diluted		17,028,057		17,558,160

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

PROVIDENT BANCORP, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)


	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
	2022		2021
(In thousands)
Net income	$	5,525	$	4,297
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized holding losses arising during the period on debt securities available-for-sale		(1,661)		(244)
Unrealized loss		(1,661)		(244)
Income tax effect		387		59
Total other comprehensive loss		(1,274)		(185)
Comprehensive income	$	4,251	$	4,112

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

‎

PROVIDENT BANCORP, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Unaudited)



	For the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021
									Accumulated
	Shares of				Additional				Other		Unearned
	Common		Common		Paid-in		Retained		Comprehensive		Compensation
(In thousands, except share data)	Stock		Stock		Capital		Earnings		(Loss) Income		ESOP		Total
Balance, December 31, 2021		17,854,649	$	179	$	123,498	$	118,087	$	649	$	(8,631)	$	233,782
Net income		—		—		—		5,525		—		—		5,525
Dividends declared ($0.04 per share)		—		—		—		(673)		—		—		(673)
Other comprehensive loss		—		—		—		—		(1,274)		—		(1,274)
Stock-based compensation expense, net of forfeitures		—		—		445		—		—		—		445
Restricted stock award grants, net of forfeitures		20,420		—		—		—		—		—		—
Repurchase of common stock		(95,229)		(1)		(1,522)		—		—		—		(1,523)
Shares surrendered related to tax withholdings on restricted stock awards		(202)		—		(4)		—		—		—		(4)
Stock options exercised, net		16,904		—		(116)		—		—		—		(116)
ESOP shares earned		—		—		203		—		—		180		383
Balance, March 31, 2022		17,796,542	$	178	$	122,504	$	122,939	$	(625)	$	(8,451)	$	236,545

Balance, December 31, 2020		19,047,544	$	191	$	139,450	$	104,508	$	1,058	$	(9,351)	$	235,856
Net income		—		—		—		4,297		—		—		4,297
Dividends declared ($0.03 per share)		—		—		—		(532)		—		—		(532)
Other comprehensive loss		—		—		—		—		(185)		—		(185)
Stock-based compensation expense, net of forfeitures		—		—		604		—		—		—		604
Repurchase of common stock		(473,215)		(5)		(6,177)		—		—		—		(6,182)
Shares surrendered related to tax withholdings on restricted stock awards		(202)		—		(2)		—		—		—		(2)
ESOP shares earned		—		—		106		—		—		180		286
Balance, March 31, 2021		18,574,127	$	186	$	133,981	$	108,273	$	873	$	(9,171)	$	234,142

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

‎

PROVIDENT BANCORP, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)


	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
(In thousands)	2022		2021
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	5,525	$	4,297
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Amortization of securities premiums, net of accretion		57		51
ESOP expense		383		286
Change in deferred loan fees, net		(1,227)		864
Provision for loan losses		83		753
Depreciation and amortization		270		252
Increase in accrued interest receivable		(697)		(85)
Deferred tax expense (benefit)		546		(634)
Share-based compensation expense		445		604
Bank-owned life insurance income		(256)		(219)
Principal repayments of operating lease obligations		(26)		(25)
Net increase in other assets		(412)		(419)
Net (decrease) increase in other liabilities		(2,384)		54
Net cash provided by operating activities		2,307		5,779

Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of debt securities available-for-sale		—		(5,038)
Proceeds from pay downs, maturities and calls of debt securities available-for-sale		1,379		2,329
Loan originations and purchases, net of paydowns		(2,482)		5,057
Proceeds from principal repayments on loans held for sale		1,338		—
Additions to premises and equipment		(34)		(153)
Write down of other assets and receivables		395		—
Net cash provided by investing activities		596		2,195

‎

PROVIDENT BANCORP, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (continued)

(Unaudited)



	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
(In thousands)	2022		2021
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net increase in noninterest-bearing accounts		120,607		47,949
Net decrease in interest-bearing accounts		(58,233)		(153)
Cash dividends paid on common stock		(673)		(532)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options, net		(116)		—
Shares surrendered related to tax withholdings on restricted stock awards		(4)		(2)
Repurchase of common stock		(1,523)		(6,182)
Net cash provided by financing activities		60,058		41,080
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents		62,961		49,054
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		153,115		83,819
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	216,076	$	132,873

Supplemental disclosures:
Interest paid	$	455	$	981
Income taxes paid		372		423

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the unaudited consolidated financial statements.

‎

PROVIDENT BANCORP, INC.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

(1) Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited financial statements of Provident Bancorp, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), were prepared in accordance with the instructions for Form 10-Q and with Regulation S-X and do not include information or footnotes necessary for a complete presentation of the financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). However, in the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting only of normal and recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of the financial statements have been included. The results of operations for the three-month period ended March 31, 2022 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for future periods, including the entire fiscal year. Certain amounts in 2021 have been reclassified to be consistent with the 2022 consolidated financial statement presentation and had no effect on the net income reported in the consolidated statements of income. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the annual financial statements and notes thereto included in the annual report on Form 10-K the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 24, 2022.

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly owned subsidiary, The Provident Bank (“BankProv” or the “Bank”), and the Bank’s wholly owned subsidiaries, Provident Security Corporation and 5 Market Street Security Corporation. Provident Security Corporation and 5 Market Street Security Corporation were established to buy, sell, and hold investments for their own account. All significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

(2) Corporate Structure

The Company is a Maryland corporation whose primary purpose is to act as the holding company for the Bank. The Bank, headquartered in Amesbury, Massachusetts, operates its business from seven banking offices located in Amesbury and Newburyport, Massachusetts and Portsmouth, Exeter, Bedford, and Seabrook, New Hampshire. The Bank also has two loan production offices in Boston, Massachusetts and Ponte Vedra, Florida. Our primary deposit products are checking, savings, and term certificate accounts and our primary lending products are commercial mortgages, commercial and mortgage warehouse loans. BankProv is also a commercial bank for corporate clients, specializing in offering adaptive and technology-first banking solutions to niche markets, including digital asset, renewable energy, fin-tech and search fund lending.

(3) Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” The ASU changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments. For trade and other receivables, held-to-maturity debt securities, loans and other instruments, entities will be required to use a new forward-looking “expected loss” model that will replace the current “incurred loss” model and can result in the earlier recognition of credit losses. For available-for-sale debt securities with unrealized losses, entities will measure credit losses in a manner similar to current practice, except that the losses will be recognized as an allowance. In October 2019, FASB approved a delay in the implementation until January 2023 for smaller reporting companies as defined by the SEC. The amendments in this update will be effective for the Company on January 1, 2023. Early adoption is permitted as of the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Management is currently evaluating the impact of its pending adoption of this guidance on the Company’s financial statements.

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848) - Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting (“ASU 2020-04”), to ease the potential burden in accounting for recognizing the effects of reference rate reform on financial reporting. Such challenges include the accounting and operational implications for contract modifications and hedge accounting. The provisions in ASU 2020-04 provide optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP to loan and lease agreements, contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions affected by reference rate reform. These provisions apply to contract modifications that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discounted because of reference rate reform. Qualifying modifications of loan agreements should be accounted for by prospectively adjusting the effective interest rate and the modification would be considered "minor" so that any existing unamortized deferred loan origination fees and costs would carry forward and continue to be amortized. Qualifying modifications of lease agreements should be accounted for as a continuation of the existing agreement with no reassessments of the lease classification and the discount rate or remeasurements of lease payments that otherwise would be required for modifications not accounted for as separate contracts. ASU 2020-04 also provides numerous optional expedients for hedge accounting.

ASU 2020-04 is effective as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022, with adoption permitted as of any date from the beginning of an interim period that includes or is subsequent to March 12, 2020, or prospectively from a date within an interim period that includes or is subsequent to March 12, 2020, up to the date that the financial statements are available to be issued. Once elected, the amendments must be applied prospectively for all eligible contract modifications. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that this ASU will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU No. 2022-02, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326) – Trouble Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures (“ASU 2022-02”), which eliminates the accounting guidance on trouble debt restructurings (“TDRs”) for creditors in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 310-40 and amends the guidance on “vintage disclosures” to require disclosures of current-period gross write-offs by year of origination. The ASC also updates the requirements related to accounting for credit losses under ASC 326 and adds enhanced disclosures for creditors with respect to loan refinancing’s and restructurings for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. ASU 2022-02 is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 14, 2022, with early adoption permitted. Management is currently evaluating the impact of its pending adoption of this guidance on the Company’s financial statements.

In March 2022, the SEC released Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121 (“SAB 121”), which provides interpretive guidance regarding accounting for obligations to safeguard crypto-assets an entity holds for its platform users. The interpretive guidance requires an entity to recognize a liability on its balance sheet to reflect the obligation to safeguard the crypto-assets held for its platform users, along with a corresponding asset, both of which are measured at fair value. SAB 121 also requires disclosure of the nature and amount of crypto assets being safeguarded, how the fair value is determined, an entity’s accounting policy for safeguarding liabilities and corresponding assets and may require other information about risks and uncertainties arising from the entity’s safeguarding activities. SAB 121 is effective no later than the first interim or annual period ending after June 15, 2022, with retrospective application as of the beginning of the fiscal year. The Company is evaluating the impact that SAB 121 will have on its financial statements and disclosures.

(4) Investment Securities

The following summarizes the amortized cost of investment securities classified as available-for-sale and their approximate fair values at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:



	Amortized		Gross		Gross
	Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized		Fair
(In thousands)	Basis		Gains		Losses		Value
March 31, 2022
State and municipal securities	$	11,975	$	207	$	287	$	11,895
Asset-backed securities		7,916		—		340		7,576
Government mortgage-backed securities		14,658		23		412		14,269
Total debt securities available-for-sale	$	34,549	$	230	$	1,039	$	33,740
December 31, 2021
State and municipal securities	$	12,002	$	625	$	36	$	12,591
Asset-backed securities		8,141		118		4		8,255
Government mortgage-backed securities		15,842		208		59		15,991
Total debt securities available-for-sale	$	35,985	$	951	$	99	$	36,837

The scheduled maturities of debt securities at March 31, 2022 are summarized in the table below. Actual maturities of asset and mortgage-backed securities may differ from contractual maturities because the assets and mortgages underlying the securities may be repaid without any penalties. Because asset- and mortgage-backed securities are not due at a single maturity date, they are not included in the maturity categories in the following maturity summary.



	Available-for-Sale
	Amortized		Fair
(In thousands)	Cost		Value
Due after one year through five years	$	579	$	586
Due after five years through ten years		1,171		1,190
Due after ten years		10,225		10,119
Government mortgage-backed securities		14,658		14,269
Asset-backed securities		7,916		7,576
	$	34,549	$	33,740

There were no realized gains or losses on sales and calls during the three months ended March 31, 2022 or March 31, 2021.

Securities with carrying amounts of $12.9 million and $14.4 million were pledged to secure available borrowings with the Federal Home Loan Bank at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively.

Other-than-temporary impairment assessment: Management assesses whether the decline in fair value of investment securities is other-than-temporary on a regular basis. Unrealized losses on debt securities may occur from current market conditions, increases in interest rates since the time of purchase, a structural change in an investment, volatility of earnings of a specific issuer, or deterioration in credit quality of the issuer. Management evaluates impairments in value both qualitatively and quantitatively to assess whether they are other-than-temporary.

The aggregate fair value and unrealized losses of securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than twelve months and for twelve months or longer are as follows at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:



	Less than 12 Months				12 Months or Longer				Total
	Fair		Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
(In thousands)	Value		Losses		Value		Losses		Value		Losses
March 31, 2022
Temporarily impaired securities:
State and municipal	$	2,688	$	287	$	—	$	—	$	2,688	$	287
Asset-backed securities		7,576		340		—		—		7,576		340
Government mortgage-backed securities		9,847		405		95		7		9,942		412
Total temporarily impaired debt securities	$	20,111	$	1,032	$	95	$	7	$	20,206	$	1,039

December 31, 2021
Temporarily impaired securities:
State and municipal	$	2,950	$	36	$	—	$	—	$	2,950	$	36
Asset-backed securities		4,797		4		—		—		4,797		4
Government mortgage-backed securities		5,022		54		113		5		5,135		59
Total temporarily impaired debt securities	$	12,769	$	94	$	113	$	5	$	12,882	$	99

The gross unrealized losses were primarily attributable to changes in interest rates since the time of purchase. Management believes that the unrealized losses on these debt security holdings are a function of changes in investment spreads and interest rate movements and not changes in credit quality. Management expects to recover the entire amortized cost basis of these securities. Furthermore, the Company does not intend to sell these securities and it is not more-likely-than-not that the Company will be required to sell these securities before recovery of their cost basis, which may be maturity. Therefore, management does not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired March 31, 2022.

(5) Loans

A summary of loans is as follows:



	At		At
	March 31,		December 31,
(In thousands)	2022		2021
Commercial real estate	$	429,842	$	432,275
Commercial (1)(2)		753,276		726,241
Residential real estate		403		812
Construction and land development		51,474		42,800
Consumer		1,022		1,519
Mortgage warehouse		223,593		253,764
		1,459,610		1,457,411
Allowance for loan losses		(19,296)		(19,496)
Deferred loan fees, net		(2,885)		(4,112)
Net loans	$	1,437,429	$	1,433,803

(1)Includes $111.9 million and $120.5 million in digital asset loans at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively.

(2)Includes $2.1 million and $12.4 million in PPP loans at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively.

The following tables set forth information regarding the activity in the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021:



	For the three months ended March 31,
(In thousands)	Commercial Real Estate		Commercial		Residential ‎Real ‎Estate		Construction and Land Development		Consumer		Mortgage Warehouse		Total
Allowance for loan losses:

Balance at December 31, 2021	$	4,935	$	13,495	$	38	$	479	$	168	$	381	$	19,496
Charge-offs		—		(351)		—		—		(28)		—		(379)
Recoveries		—		88		—		—		8		—		96
Provision (credit)		57		35		(24)		86		(25)		(46)		83
Balance at March 31, 2022	$	4,992	$	13,267	$	14	$	565	$	123	$	335	$	19,296

Balance at December 31, 2020	$	6,095	$	10,543	$	184	$	447	$	586	$	663	$	18,518
Charge-offs		(150)		(43)		—		—		(156)		—		(349)
Recoveries		81		—		—		—		29		—		110
Provision (credit)		76		1,012		(29)		5		(14)		(297)		753
Balance at March 31, 2021	$	6,102	$	11,512	$	155	$	452	$	445	$	366	$	19,032

The following table sets forth information regarding the allowance for loan losses and related loan balances by portfolio segment at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:



(In thousands)	Commercial Real Estate		Commercial		Residential Real Estate		Construction and Land Development		Consumer		Mortgage Warehouse		Total
March 31, 2022
Allowance for loan losses:
Ending balance:
Individually evaluated
for impairment	$	—	$	1,256	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	1,256
Ending balance:
Collectively evaluated
for impairment		4,992		12,011		14		565		123		335		18,040
Total allowance for loan
losses ending balance	$	4,992	$	13,267	$	14	$	565	$	123	$	335	$	19,296

Loans (1):
Ending balance:
Individually evaluated
for impairment	$	20,202	$	3,527	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	23,729
Ending balance:
Collectively evaluated
for impairment		409,640		749,749		403		51,474		1,022		223,593		1,435,881
Total loans ending balance	$	429,842	$	753,276	$	403	$	51,474	$	1,022	$	223,593	$	1,459,610

(1)Balances represent gross loans. The difference between gross loans versus recorded investment, which would consist of unpaid principal balance, net of charge-offs, interest payments received applied to principal and unamortized deferred loan origination fees and costs, is not material.



(In thousands)	Commercial Real Estate		Commercial		Residential Real Estate		Construction and Land Development		Consumer		Mortgage Warehouse		Total
December 31, 2021
Allowance for loan losses:
Ending balance:
Individually evaluated
for impairment	$	—	$	1,616	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	1,616
Ending balance:
Collectively evaluated
for impairment		4,935		11,879		38		479		168		381		17,880
Total allowance for loan
losses ending balance	$	4,935	$	13,495	$	38	$	479	$	168	$	381	$	19,496

Loans (1):
Ending balance:
Individually evaluated
for impairment	$	20,188	$	3,929	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	24,117
Ending balance:
Collectively evaluated
for impairment		412,087		722,312		812		42,800		1,519		253,764		1,433,294
Total loans ending balance	$	432,275	$	726,241	$	812	$	42,800	$	1,519	$	253,764	$	1,457,411

The following tables set forth information regarding non-accrual loans and loan delinquencies by portfolio segment at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:



													90 Days
					90 Days		Total						or More
	30 - 59		60 - 89		or More		Past		Total		Total		Past Due		Non-accrual
(In thousands)	Days		Days		Past Due		Due		Current		Loans		and Accruing		Loans
March 31, 2022
Commercial real estate	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	429,842	$	429,842	$	—	$	—
Commercial		112		17		1,553		1,682		751,594		753,276		—		1,569
Residential real estate		—		—		144		144		259		403		—		306
Construction and
land development		—		—		—		—		51,474		51,474		—		—
Consumer		11		—		6		17		1,005		1,022		—		6
Mortgage warehouse								—		223,593		223,593		—		—
Total	$	123	$	17	$	1,703	$	1,843	$	1,457,767	$	1,459,610	$	—	$	1,881

December 31, 2021
Commercial real estate	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	432,275	$	432,275	$	—	$	—
Commercial		13		111		1,860		1,984		724,257		726,241		—		2,080
Residential real estate		—		—		555		555		257		812		—		812
Construction and
land development		—		—		—		—		42,800		42,800		—		—
Consumer		15		11		—		26		1,493		1,519		—		—
Mortgage warehouse		—		—		—		—		253,764		253,764		—		—
Total	$	28	$	122	$	2,415	$	2,565	$	1,454,846	$	1,457,411	$	—	$	2,892

The following tables provide information with respect to the Company’s impaired loans:


	March 31, 2022						December 31, 2021
			Unpaid						Unpaid
	Recorded		Principal		Related		Recorded		Principal		Related
(In thousands)	Investment		Balance		Allowance		Investment		Balance		Allowance
With no related allowance recorded:
Commercial real estate	$	20,202	$	20,281	$	—	$	20,188	$	20,339	$	—
Commercial		2,069		3,740		—		2,015		2,205		—
Residential real estate		—		—		—		—		—		—
Construction and land development		—		—		—		—		—		—
Consumer		—		—		—		—		—		—
Mortgage warehouse		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total impaired with no related allowance		22,271		24,021		—		22,203		22,544		—

With an allowance recorded:
Commercial real estate		—		—		—		—		—		—
Commercial		1,458		1,458		1,256		1,914		3,086		1,616
Residential real estate		—		—		—		—		—		—
Construction and land development		—		—		—		—		—		—
Consumer		—		—		—		—		—		—
Mortgage warehouse		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total impaired with an allowance recorded		1,458		1,458		1,256		1,914		3,086		1,616

Total
Commercial real estate		20,202		20,281		—		20,188		20,339		—
Commercial		3,527		5,198		1,256		3,929		5,291		1,616
Residential real estate		—		—		—		—		—		—
Construction and land development		—		—		—		—		—		—
Consumer		—		—		—		—		—		—
Mortgage warehouse		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total impaired loans	$	23,729	$	25,479	$	1,256	$	24,117	$	25,630	$	1,616



	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022				2021
	Average		Interest		Average		Interest
	Recorded		Income		Recorded		Income
(In thousands)	Investment		Recognized		Investment		Recognized
With no related allowance recorded:
Commercial real estate	$	20,195	$	154	$	20,961	$	183
Commercial		2,272		62		502		3
Residential real estate		—		—		162		2
Construction and land development		—		—		—		—
Consumer		—		—		—		—
Mortgage warehouse		—		—		—		—
Total impaired with no related allowance		22,467		216		21,625		188
With an allowance recorded:
Commercial real estate		—		—		—		—
Commercial		1,459		1		6,295		2
Residential real estate		—		—		—		—
Construction and land development		—		—		—		—
Consumer		—		—		—		—
Mortgage warehouse		—		—		—		—
Total impaired with an allowance recorded		1,459		1		6,295		2
Total
Commercial real estate		20,195		154		20,961		183
Commercial		3,731		63		6,797		5
Residential real estate		—		—		162		2
Construction and land development		—		—		—		—
Consumer		—		—		—		—
Mortgage warehouse		—		—		—		—
Total impaired loans	$	23,926	$	217	$	27,920	$	190

Troubled debt restructurings: Loans are considered to be TDRs when the Company has granted concessions to a borrower due to the borrower’s financial condition that it otherwise would not have considered. These concessions may include modifications of the terms of the debt such as deferral of payments, extension of maturity, reduction of principal balance, reduction of the stated interest rate other than normal market rate adjustments, or a combination of these concessions. Debt may be bifurcated with separate terms for each tranche of the restructured debt. Restructuring of a loan in lieu of aggressively enforcing the collection of the loan may benefit the Company by increasing the ultimate probability of collection.

Restructured loans are classified as accruing or non-accruing based on management’s assessment of the collectability of the loan. Loans which are already on nonaccrual status at the time of the restructuring generally remain on nonaccrual status for approximately six months before management considers such loans for return to accruing status. Accruing restructured loans are placed into nonaccrual status if and when the borrower fails to comply with the restructured terms and management deems it unlikely that the borrower will return to a status of compliance in the near term.

TDRs are reported as such for at least one year from the date of the restructuring. In years after the restructuring, TDRs are removed from this classification if the restructuring did not involve a below-market rate concession and the loan is not deemed to be impaired based on the terms specified in the restructuring agreement.

The following tables summarize TDRs entered into during the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021:



	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022					2021
(Dollars in thousands)	Number of Contracts	Pre- ‎Modification ‎Outstanding ‎Recorded ‎Investment		Post-Modification ‎Outstanding ‎Recorded ‎Investment		Number of Contracts	Pre- ‎Modification ‎Outstanding ‎Recorded ‎Investment		Post-Modification ‎Outstanding ‎Recorded ‎Investment
Troubled debt restructurings:
Commercial	—	$	—	$	—	3	$	1,868	$	1,868
	—	$	—	$	—	3	$	1,868	$	1,868

There were no new TDRs approved during the three months ended March 31, 2022.

During the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company approved three TDRs all related to one commercial relationship totaling $1.9 million. A troubled debt restructuring was completed to provide the borrower with a three-month principal and interest deferral through April 2021; upon review in the second quarter of 2021 an additional three-month principal and interest deferral was granted through August 2021. During the third quarter of 2021, $1.6 million relating to this commercial relationship was charged-off with an additional $351,000 written off in the first quarter of 2022. As of March 31, 2022 the balance remaining is the value of the collateral and remains on non-accrual status.

The total recorded investment in TDRs was $22.3 million and $22.7 million at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively. As of March 31, 2022, there were no material commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers whose loans had been restructured.

The following tables present the Company’s loans by risk rating and portfolio segment at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:



(In thousands)	Commercial Real Estate		Commercial		Residential Real Estate			Construction ‎and Land ‎Development	Consumer		Mortgage Warehouse		Total
March 31, 2022
Grade:
Pass	$	378,921	$	704,562	$	—	$	50,436	$	—	$	223,593	$	1,357,512
Special mention		31,092		41,724		—		—		—		—		72,816
Substandard		19,829		5,530		306		1,038		—		—		26,703
Doubtful		—		1,460		—		—		—		—		1,460
Not formally rated		—		—		97		—		1,022		—		1,119
Total	$	429,842	$	753,276	$	403	$	51,474	$	1,022	$	223,593	$	1,459,610

December 31, 2021
Grade:
Pass	$	383,460	$	676,081	$	—	$	41,762	$	—	$	253,764	$	1,355,067
Special mention		29,004		41,921		—		—		—		—		70,925
Substandard		19,811		7,677		812		1,038		—		—		29,338
Doubtful		—		562		—		—		—		—		562
Not formally rated		—		—		—		—		1,519		—		1,519
Total	$	432,275	$	726,241	$	812	$	42,800	$	1,519	$	253,764	$	1,457,411

Credit Quality Information

The Company utilizes a seven grade internal loan risk rating system for commercial real estate, construction and land development, and commercial loans as follows:

Loans rated 1-3: Loans in these categories are considered “pass” rated loans with low to average risk.

Loans rated 4: Loans in this category are considered “special mention.” These loans are starting to show signs of potential weakness and are being closely monitored by management.

Loans rated 5: Loans in this category are considered “substandard.” Generally, a loan is considered substandard if it is inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligors and/or the collateral pledged. There is a distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the weakness is not corrected.

Loans rated 6: Loans in this category are considered “doubtful.” Loans classified as doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, highly questionable and improbable.

Loans rated 7: Loans in this category are considered uncollectible “loss” and of such little value that their continuance as loans is not warranted.

On an annual basis, or more often if needed, the Company formally reviews the ratings on all commercial real estate, construction and land development, and commercial loans.

On an annual basis, or more often if needed, the Company completes a credit recertification on all mortgage warehouse originators.

For residential real estate loans, the Company initially assesses credit quality based upon the borrower’s ability to pay and rates such loans as pass. Ongoing monitoring is based upon the borrower’s payment activity.

Consumer loans are not formally rated.

(6) Deposits

A summary of deposit balances, by type is as follows:



	March 31,		December 31,
(In thousands)	2022		2021
Noninterest-bearing:
Demand	$	747,194	$	626,587
Interest-bearing:
NOW		192,800		197,884
Regular savings		154,995		155,267
Money market deposits		366,277		419,625
Certificates of deposit:
Certificate accounts of $250,000 or more		5,084		5,078
Certificate accounts less than $250,000		55,919		55,454
Total interest-bearing		775,075		833,308
Total deposits	$	1,522,269	$	1,459,895

(7) Borrowings

Advances consist of funds borrowed from the Federal Home Loan Bank (the “FHLB”). Maturities of advances from the FHLB as of March 31, 2022 are summarized as follows:



(In thousands)
Fiscal Year-End
2023	$	8,500
2025		5,000
Total	$	13,500

Borrowings from the FHLB, which aggregated $13.5 million at March 31, 2022, are secured by a blanket lien on qualified collateral, consisting primarily of loans with first mortgages secured by one to four family properties, certain commercial loans and qualified mortgage-backed government securities. The interest rates on FHLB advances ranged from 1.21% to 3.01%, and the weighted average interest rate on FHLB advances was 2.11% at March 31, 2022. All of the FHLB borrowings at March 31, 2022 are long-term with an original maturity of more than one year.

(8) Fair Value Measurements

The Company reports certain assets at fair value in accordance with GAAP, which defines fair value and establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The standard describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair values:

Basis of Fair Value Measurements

Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;

Level 2 - Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability;

Level 3 - Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity).

An asset’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

Fair Values of Assets Measured on a Recurring Basis

The Company’s investments in state and municipal, asset-backed and government mortgage-backed debt securities available-for-sale are generally classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. For these investments, the Company obtains fair value measurements from independent pricing services. The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, trading levels, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the instrument’s terms and conditions.

The following summarizes financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:



	Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
					Significant		Significant
					Other Observable		Unobservable
					Inputs		Inputs
(In thousands)	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
March 31, 2022
State and municipal securities	$	11,895	$	—	$	11,895	$	—
Asset-backed securities		7,576		—		7,576		—
Government mortgage-backed securities		14,269		—		14,269		—
Totals	$	33,740	$	—	$	33,740	$	—

December 31, 2021
State and municipal securities	$	12,591	$	—	$	12,591	$	—
Asset-backed securities		8,255		—		8,255		—
Government mortgage-backed securities		15,991		—		15,991		—
Totals	$	36,837	$	—	$	36,837	$	—

Fair Values of Assets Measured on a Non-Recurring Basis

The Company may also be required, from time to time, to measure certain other assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. These adjustments to fair value usually result from the application of lower-of-cost-or market accounting or write-downs of individual assets.

Certain impaired loans were adjusted to fair value, less cost to sell, of the underlying collateral securing these loans resulting in losses. The loss is not recorded directly as an adjustment to current earnings, but rather as a component in determining the allowance for loan losses. Fair value was measured using appraised values of collateral and adjusted as necessary by management based on unobservable inputs for specific properties.

The following summarizes assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:



	Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using:
			Quoted Prices in		Significant		Significant
			Active Markets for		Other Observable		Unobservable
			Identical Assets		Inputs		Inputs
(In thousands)	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
March 31, 2022
Impaired loans
Commercial	$	365	$	—	$	—	$	365
Totals	$	365	$	—	$	—	$	365

December 31, 2021
Impaired loans
Commercial	$	361		—	$	—	$	361
Totals	$	361	$	—	$	—	$	361

The following is a summary of the valuation methodology and unobservable inputs for Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:



(In thousands)	Fair Value		Valuation Technique	Unobservable Input	Range
March 31, 2022
Impaired loans
Commercial	$	365	Business valuation	Comparable company evaluations	0% - 10%

December 31, 2021
Impaired loans
Commercial	$	361	Business valuation	Comparable company evaluations	0% - 24%

At March 31, 2022, the carrying amount of impaired commercial loans measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis was $3.2 million, net of specific reserves of $1.3 million and charge offs of $1.5 million. At December 31, 2021, the carrying amount of impaired commercial loans measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis was $3.2 million, net of specific reserves of $1.6 million and charge offs of $1.2 million.

Fair Values of Financial Instruments

GAAP requires disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not recognized in the balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate that value. Certain financial instruments and all nonfinancial instruments are excluded from the disclosure requirements. Accordingly, the aggregate fair value amounts presented do not represent the underlying value of the Company.

The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments, all of which are held or issued for purposes other than trading, are as follows at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021:



	Carrying		Fair Value
(In thousands)	Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
March 31, 2022
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	216,076	$	216,076	$	—	$	—	$	216,076
Available-for-sale debt securities		33,740		—		33,740		—		33,740
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston stock		785		N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A
Loans and loans held for sale, net		1,458,937		—		—		1,455,666		1,455,666
Accrued interest receivable		6,400		—		6,400		—		6,400
Financial liabilities:
Deposits		1,522,269		—		1,522,298		—		1,522,298
Borrowings		13,500		—		13,267		—		13,267

December 31, 2021
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	153,115	$	153,115	$	—	$	—	$	153,115
Available-for-sale debt securities		36,837		—		36,837		—		36,837
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston stock		785		N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A
Loans and loans held for sale, net		1,456,649		—		—		1,468,013		1,468,013
Accrued interest receivable		5,703		—		5,703		—		5,703
Financial liabilities:
Deposits		1,459,895		—		1,459,841		—		1,459,841
Borrowings		13,500		—		13,698		—		13,698

(9) Regulatory Capital

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

The Bank is subject to capital regulations that require a Common Equity Tier 1 (“CET1”) capital ratio of 4.5%, a minimum Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 6.0%, a minimum total capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 8.0% and a minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio of 4.0%. CET1 generally consists of common stock and retained earnings, subject to applicable adjustments and deductions. In order to be considered “well capitalized,” the Bank must maintain a CET1 capital ratio of 6.5% and a Tier 1 ratio of 8.0%, a total risk-based capital ratio of 10% and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 5.0%. As of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, the FDIC categorized the Bank as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.

Applicable regulations limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments to management if the institution does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” consisting of 2.5% of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted asset above the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements. At March 31, 2022, the Bank exceeded the regulatory requirement for the capital conservation buffer.

In 2019, the federal banking agencies adopted a final rule to implement Section 201 of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, effective January 1, 2020, establishing a community bank leverage ratio (“CBLR”) framework for community banking organizations having total consolidated assets of less than $10 billion, having a leverage ratio of greater than 9%, and satisfying other criteria, such as limitations on the amount of off-balance sheet exposures and on trading assets and liabilities. A community banking organization that qualifies for and elects to use the CBLR framework and that maintains a leverage ratio of greater than 9% will be considered to have satisfied the generally applicable risk-based and leverage capital requirements in the banking agencies’ generally applicable capital rules and, if applicable, will be considered to have met the well-capitalized ratio requirements for purposes of Section 38 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. The Bank did not elect to use the CBLR framework.

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



										To Be Well
										Capitalized Under
					For Capital					Prompt Corrective
	Actual				Adequacy Purposes					Action Provisions
(Dollars in thousands)	Amount		Ratio		Amount		Ratio			Amount		Ratio
March 31, 2022
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets)	$	228,010	14.75	%	$	123,706	>	8.0	%	$	154,633	>	10.0	%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets)		208,714	13.50			92,780	>	6.0			123,706	>	8.0
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets)		208,714	13.50			69,585	>	4.5			100,511	>	6.5
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)		208,714	12.10			69,018	>	4.0			86,273	>	5.0
December 31, 2021
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets)	$	221,865	14.18	%	$	125,177	>	8.0	%	$	156,472	>	10.0	%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets)		202,369	12.93			93,883	>	6.0			125,177	>	8.0
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets)		202,369	12.93			70,412	>	4.5			101,706	>	6.5
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)		202,369	12.07			67,072	>	4.0			83,840	>	5.0

Liquidation Accounts

Upon the completion of the Company’s initial stock offering in 2015 and the second step offering in 2019, liquidation accounts were established for the benefit of certain depositors of the Bank in amounts equal to:

1.The product of (i) the percentage of the stock issued in the initial stock offering in 2015 to persons other than Provident Bancorp, the top tier mutual holding company (“MHC”) of the Company and (ii) the net worth of the mid-tier holding company as of the date of the latest balance sheet contained in the prospectus utilized in connection with the offering.

2.The MHC’s ownership interest in the retained earnings of the Company as of the date of the latest balance sheet contained in the 2019 prospectus plus the MHC’s net assets (excluding its ownership of the Company).

The Company and the Bank are not permitted to pay dividends on their capital stock if the shareholders’ equity of the Company, or the shareholder’s equity of the Bank, would be reduced below the amount of the respective liquidation accounts. The liquidation accounts will be reduced annually to the extent that eligible account holders have reduced their qualifying deposits. Subsequent increases will not restore an eligible account holder’s interest in the liquidation accounts.

Other Restrictions

The Company’s principal source of funds for dividend payments is dividends received from the Bank. Federal and state banking regulations restrict the amount of dividends that may be paid in a year, without prior approval of regulatory agencies, to the net income of the Bank for the year plus the retained net income of the previous two years. For the three months ended March 31, 2022, net income of the Bank was $5.5 million and for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, $16.1 million and $12.1 million, respectively, of retained earnings were available to pay dividends.

The Company may, at times, repurchase its own shares in the open market. Such transactions are subject to the Federal Reserve Board’s notice provisions for stock repurchases. In March 2021, the Company announced its plan to repurchase 1,400,000 shares of its common stock. The repurchase program was adopted following the receipt of non-objection from the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, and in compliance with applicable state and federal regulations. During the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company repurchased 95,229 shares of its outstanding common stock under this program.

(10) Employee Stock Ownership Plan

The Bank established an ESOP to provide eligible employees the opportunity to own company stock. The plan is a tax-qualified plan for the benefit of all Bank employees. Contributions are allocated to eligible participants on the basis of compensation, subject to federal tax law limits. The ESOP acquired a total of 1,538,868 shares between the initial and second-step stock offerings with the proceeds of a loan totaling $11.8 million. The loan is payable over 15 years at a rate per annum equal to the prime rate (3.25% as of December 31, 2021). Shares used as collateral to secure the loan are released and available for allocation to eligible employees as the principal and interest on the loan is paid. The number of shares committed to be released per year through 2033 is 89,758.

Shares held by the ESOP include the following:



	March 31, 2022		December 31, 2021
Allocated		461,772		372,014
Committed to be released		22,439		89,758
Unallocated		1,054,657		1,077,096
Total		1,538,868		1,538,868

The fair value of unallocated shares was approximately $17.1 million at March 31, 2022.

Total compensation expense recognized in connection with the ESOP for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 was $383,000 and $286,000, respectively.

(11) Earnings Per Common Share

Basic earnings per share represents income available to common stockholders divided by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed in a manner similar to that of basic earnings per share except that the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding is increased to include the number of incremental common shares (computed using the treasury method) that would have been outstanding if all potentially dilutive common stock equivalents were issued during the period. Unallocated ESOP shares, treasury stock and unvested restricted stock is not deemed outstanding for earnings per share calculations.



	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)	2022		2021
Net Income attributable to common shareholders	$	5,525	$	4,297

Average number of common shares issued		17,856,516		18,774,844
Less:
average unallocated ESOP shares		(1,062,137)		(1,151,892)
average unvested restricted stock		(276,427)		(359,193)
Average number of common shares outstanding
to calculate basic earnings per common share		16,517,952		17,263,759

Effect of dilutive unvested restricted stock and stock option awards		510,105		294,401
Average number of common shares outstanding
to calculate diluted earnings per common share		17,028,057		17,558,160

Earnings per common share:
Basic	$	0.33	$	0.25
Diluted	$	0.32	$	0.24

Stock options for 171,267 and 902,505 shares of common stock were not considered in computing diluted earnings per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, because they were anti-dilutive, meaning the exercise price for such options were higher than the average price for the Company for such period.

(12) Share-Based Compensation

The shareholders of the Company approved the Provident Bancorp, Inc. 2020 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2020 Equity Plan”) on November 23, 2020, which is in addition to the Provident Bancorp, Inc. 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2016 Equity Plan”), (collectively called the “Equity Incentive Plans”). Under the Equity Incentive Plans, the Company may grant options, restricted stock, restricted units or performance awards to its directors, officers and employees. Both incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options may be granted under the Equity Incentive Plans, with 902,344 and 1,021,239 shares reserved for options under the 2016 Equity Plan and 2020 Equity Plan, respectively. The exercise price of each option equals the market price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant and the maximum term of each option is ten years. The total number of shares reserved for restricted stock or restricted units is 360,935 and 408,495 under the 2016 Equity Plan and 2020 Equity Plan, respectively. The value of restricted stock grants is based on the market price of the stock on grant date. Options and awards vest ratably over 3 to 5 years.

Expense related to options and restricted stock granted to directors is recognized in directors’ compensation within non-interest expense.

Stock Options

The fair value of each option is estimated on the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions:

Expected volatility is based on historical volatility because the Company’s common stock price.

Expected life represents the period of time that the option is expected to be outstanding, taking into account the contractual term, and the vesting period.

The dividend yield assumption is based on the Company’s expectation of dividend payouts.

The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for a period equivalent to the expected life of the option.

The fair value of options granted in 2022 is based on the following assumptions:



	2022
Vesting period (years)		5
Expiration date (years)		10
Expected volatility		33.75%
Expected life (years)		7.5
Expected dividend yield		0.92%
Risk free interest rate		1.74%
Fair value per option	$	6.11

A summary of the status of the Company’s stock option grants for the three months ended March 31, 2022 is presented in the table below:



	Stock Option Awards		Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2021		1,558,963	$	10.72
Granted		51,000		17.41
Forfeited		—		—
Exercised		(50,877)		9.94
Outstanding at March 31, 2022		1,559,086	$	10.96		7.18	$	8,260,000
Outstanding and expected to vest at March 31, 2022		1,559,086	$	10.96		7.18	$	8,260,000
Vested and Exercisable at March 31, 2022		778,038	$	9.43		5.57	$	5,281,000
Unrecognized compensation cost	$	2,896,000
Weighted average remaining recognition period (years)		3.70

For the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, total expense for the stock options was $208,000 and $272,000, respectively.

Restricted Stock

Shares issued upon the granting of restricted stock may be either authorized but unissued shares or reacquired shares held by the Company. Any shares forfeited because vesting requirements are not met will again be available for issuance under the Equity Plan. The fair market value of shares awarded, based on the market prices at the date of grant, is recorded as unearned compensation and amortized over the applicable vesting period.

The following table presents the activity in restricted stock awards under the Equity Plan for the three months ended March 31, 2022:



	Unvested Restricted Stock Awards		Weighted Average Grant Date Price
Unvested restricted stock awards at December 31, 2021		277,925	$	12.15
Granted		20,420		17.41
Forfeited		—		—
Vested		(810)		12.35
Unvested restricted stock awards at March 31, 2022		297,535	$	12.51
Unrecognized compensation cost	$	3,320,000
Weighted average remaining recognition period (years)		3.72

For the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, total expense for the restricted stock awards was $237,000 and $332,000, respectively.

(13) Leases

The Company recognized right-of-use assets (“ROU”) totaling $4.1 million at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, and operating lease liabilities totaling $4.4 million at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021. The lease liabilities recognized by the Company represent two leased branch locations and one loan production office.

Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Variable lease components, such as fair market value adjustments, are expensed as incurred and are not included in ROU assets and operating lease liabilities. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet; we recognize lease expense for the leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. For the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021, rent expense for the operating leases totaled $79,000.

The following table presents information regarding the Company’s operating leases:



	March 31,		December 31,
	2022		2021
Weighted-average discount rate		3.57%		3.57%
Range of lease expiration dates		1 - 14 years		1 - 14 years
Range of lease renewal options		5 - 20 years		5 - 20 years
Weighted-average remaining lease term		26.8 years		27.0 years

The following table presents the undiscounted annual lease payments under the terms of the Company's operating leases at September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, including a reconciliation to the present value of operating lease liabilities recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:



	March 31,		December 31,
Fiscal Year-End	2022		2021
(In thousands)
2022	$	196	$	261
2023		264		264
2024		270		270
2025		280		280
2026		291		291
Thereafter		6,033		6,033
Total lease payments		7,334		7,399
Less imputed interest		(2,973)		(3,012)
Total lease liabilities	$	4,361	$	4,387

The lease liabilities recognized include certain lease extensions as it is expected that the Company will use substantially all lease renewal options.

(14) Revenue Recognition

Revenue from contracts with customers in the scope of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC Topic 606") is measured based on the consideration specified in the contract with a customer and excludes amounts collected on behalf of third parties. The Company recognizes revenue from contracts with customers when it satisfies its performance obligations.

The Company’s performance obligations are generally satisfied as services are rendered and can either be satisfied at a point in time or over time. Unsatisfied performance obligations at the report date are not material to our consolidated financial statements.

The Company recognizes revenue that is transactional in nature and such revenue is earned at a point in time. Revenue that is recognized at a point in time includes card interchange fees (fee income related to debit card transactions), ATM fees, wire transfer fees, overdraft charge fees, and stop-payment and returned check fees. Additionally, revenue is collected from loan fees, such as letters of credit, line renewal fees and application fees. Such revenue is derived from transactional information and is recognized as revenue immediately as the transactions occur or upon providing the service to complete the customer’s transaction.

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

Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 and for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and 2021 is intended to assist in understanding our financial condition and results of operations. Operating results for the three-month period ended March 31, 2022 may not be indicative of results for all of 2022 or any other period. The information contained in this section should be read in conjunction with the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto, appearing in Part 1, Item 1 of this report.

Forward-Looking Statements

This document may contain certain forward-looking statements, such as statements of the Company’s or the Bank’s plans, objectives, expectations, estimates and intentions. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “expects,” “subject,” “believes,” “will,” “intends,” “may,” “will be,” “would” or similar expressions. Readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s analysis of factors only as of the date of which they are given. These statements are subject to change based on various important factors (some of which are beyond the Company’s or the Bank’s control) and actual results may differ materially. These factors include general economic conditions, including trends and levels of interest rates; the effects of any pandemic; global or national war, conflict or act of terrorism; the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans; the ability of the Company or the Bank to effectively manage its growth; inflation or volatility in interest rates; real estate values in the market area; loan demand; competition; changes in accounting policies; changes in laws and regulations; our success in introducing new products or entering new markets; our ability to retain key employees; failures or breaches of our IT systems; and results of regulatory examinations, among other factors.

The foregoing list of important factors is not exclusive. Readers should carefully review the factors described in other documents the Company files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Annual and Quarterly Reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K.

Except as required by applicable law and regulation, the Company does not undertake — and specifically disclaims any obligation — to update any forward-looking statements after the date of this quarterly report.

Critical Accounting Policies

Critical accounting estimates are necessary in the application of certain accounting policies and procedures and are particularly susceptible to significant change. Critical accounting policies are defined as those involving significant judgments and assumptions by management that could have a material impact on the carrying value of certain assets or on income under different assumptions or conditions. Management believes that the most critical accounting policies, which involve the most complex or subjective decisions or assessments, are as follows:

Allowance for Loan Losses. The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the un-collectability of a loan balance is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. Management estimates the allowance balance required using past loan loss experience, the size and composition of the portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values, economic conditions, and other factors. Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged off.

The allowance consists of specific and general components. The specific component relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due

according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Loans for which the terms have been modified resulting in a concession, and for which the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, are considered troubled debt restructurings and are classified as impaired.

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

Large groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment. Accordingly, we do not separately identify individual consumer and residential loans for impairment disclosures.

The allocated component relates to loans that are classified as impaired. Impairment is measured on a loan by loan basis for commercial, commercial real estate and construction loans by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. An allowance is established when the discounted cash flows (or collateral value) of the impaired loan is lower than the carrying value of that loan.

Troubled debt restructurings are individually evaluated for impairment and included in the separately identified impairment disclosures. TDRs are measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception. If a TDR is considered to be a collateral dependent loan, the loan is reported, net, at the fair value of the collateral. For TDRs that subsequently default, the Company determines the amount of the allowance on that loan in accordance with the accounting policy for the allowance for loan losses on loans individually identified as impaired.

The general component of the allowance for loan losses is based on historical loss experience adjusted for qualitative factors stratified by all loan segments. Management uses a rolling average of historical losses based on a time frame appropriate to capture relevant loss data for each loan segment. This historical loss factors are adjusted for the following qualitative factors: levels/trends in delinquencies and non-accruals; economic conditions, portfolio trends, portfolio concentrations, loan grading and management’s discretion. There were no changes in our policies or methodology pertaining to the general component of the allowance for loan losses during the three months ended March 31, 2022 or during the year ended December 31, 2021.

The qualitative factors are determined based on the various risk characteristics of each loan segment. Risk characteristics relevant to each portfolio segment are as follows:

Residential real estate: We generally do not originate loans with a loan-to-value ratio greater than 80% and do not grant subprime loans. Loans with loan to value ratios greater than 80% require the purchase of private mortgage insurance. All loans in this segment are collateralized by owner-occupied residential real estate and repayment is dependent on the credit quality of the individual borrower. The overall health of the economy, including unemployment rates and housing prices, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment. In December 2021, we transferred the salable loans in this portfolio to held for sale and determined we will no longer originate or service residential real estate loans.

Commercial real estate: Loans in this segment are primarily income-producing properties throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The underlying cash flows generated by the properties are adversely impacted by a downturn in the economy as evidenced by increased vacancy rates, which in turn, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment. Management periodically obtains rent rolls and continually monitors the cash flows of these loans.

Construction and land development: Loans in this segment primarily include speculative and pre-sold real estate development loans for which payment is derived from sale of the property and a conversion of the construction loans to permanent loans for which payment is then derived from cash flows of the property. Credit risk is affected by cost overruns, time to sell at an adequate price, and market conditions.

Mortgage warehouse: Loans in this segment are primarily facility lines to non-bank mortgage origination companies. The underlying collateral of these loans are residential real estate loans. Loans are originated by the mortgage companies for sale into secondary markets, which is typically within 15 days of the loan closure. The primary source of repayment is the cash flow upon the sale of the loans. The credit risk associated with this type of lending is the risk that the mortgage companies are unable to sell the loans.

Commercial: Loans in this segment are made to businesses and are generally secured by assets of the business. Repayment is expected from the cash flows of the business. A weakened economy, and resultant decreased consumer spending, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment.

Consumer: Loans in this segment are generally unsecured and repayment is dependent on the credit quality of the individual borrower.

An unallocated component can be maintained to cover uncertainties that could affect management’s estimate of probable losses. The unallocated component of the allowance reflects the margin of imprecision inherent in the underlying assumptions used in the methodologies for estimating allocated and general reserves in the portfolio.

Income Taxes. The Company recognizes income taxes under the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are established for the temporary differences between the accounting basis and the tax basis of our assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when the amounts related to such temporary differences are realized or settled. A tax valuation allowance is established, as needed, to reduce net deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.

The Company examines its significant income tax positions quarterly to determine whether a tax benefit is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities.

Balance Sheet Analysis

Assets. Total assets were $1.79 billion at March 31, 2022, representing an increase of $62.7 million, or 3.6%, from $1.73 billion at December 31, 2021. The increase resulted primarily from increases in cash and cash equivalents of $63.0 million.

Cash and Cash Equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents increased $63.0 million, or 41.1%, to $216.1 million at March 31, 2022 from $153.1 million at December 31, 2021. The increase in cash and cash equivalents was primarily due to an increase in deposits.

Loans. At March 31, 2022, net loans were $1.44 billion, or 80.2% of total assets, compared to $1.43 billion, or 82.9% of total assets, at December 31, 2021. Increases in commercial loans of $27.0 million, or 3.7%, and construction and land development loans of $8.7 million, or 20.3%, were partially offset by decreases in mortgage warehouse loans of $30.2 million, or 11.9%, commercial real estate loans of $2.4 million, or 0.6%, consumer loans of $497,000, or 32.7%, and residential real estate loans of $409,000, or 50.4%. Our commercial loan growth was primarily due to a $30.0 million cash-secured loan originated during the first quarter as well as growth in our enterprise value and renewable energy loan portfolios. Our enterprise value portfolio increased $15.5 million, or 4.6%, to $355.8 million compared to $340.3 million at December 31, 2021 and our renewable energy portfolio increased $2.1 million, or 3.4%, to $64.5 million compared to $62.3 million at December 31, 2021. These increases in commercial loan growth were offset by a decrease in PPP loans of $10.4 million, or 83.3%, and a decrease in our digital asset loans of $8.6 million, or 7.1%. Digital asset loans decreased primarily due to the pay-down of an existing $35.0 million credit line, which was offset by $29.1 million in new digital asset loans. For a detailed discussion of our enterprise value, renewable energy and digital asset loans, see “Business – Lending Activities – Commercial Business Loans” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The following table sets forth the composition of our loan portfolio by type of loan at the dates indicated.



	At			At
	March 31,			December 31,
	2022			2021
	Amount		Percent	Amount		Percent
Commercial real estate	$	429,842	29.44%	$	432,275	29.66%
Commercial		753,276	51.61%		726,241	49.83%
Residential real estate		403	0.03%		812	0.06%
Construction and land development		51,474	3.53%		42,800	2.94%
Consumer		1,022	0.07%		1,519	0.10%
Mortgage warehouse		223,593	15.32%		253,764	17.41%
		1,459,610	100.00%		1,457,411	100.00%
Allowance for loan losses		(19,296)			(19,496)
Deferred loan fees, net		(2,885)			(4,112)
Net loans	$	1,437,429		$	1,433,803

Deposits. Total deposits increased $62.4 million, or 4.3%, to $1.52 billion at March 31, 2022 from $1.46 billion at December 31, 2021. The increase in deposits was primarily due to an increase of $120.6 million, or 19.2% in demand deposits, partially offset by a decrease of $53.3 million, or 12.7%, in money market accounts and a decrease of $5.1 million, or 2.6%, in NOW deposits. Demand deposits increased primarily due to new and expanded relationships with traditional, digital asset, and banking as a service (“BaaS”) customers. Digital asset deposit balances increased $79.7 million, or 80.0%, and were $179.4 million at March 31, 2022 compared to $99.7 million at December 31, 2021. BaaS deposit balances increased $34.4 million, or 57.5%, and were $94.3 million at March 31, 2022 compared

to $59.9 million at December 31, 2021. The expansion in our digital asset and BaaS relationships are the direct result of initiatives by the Bank to expand our services and customer base in these spaces. As of March 31, 2022, noninterest-bearing deposits represented 49.1% of total deposits compared to 42.9% as of December 31, 2021. With the successful increases in our digital asset and BaaS deposits, we were able to decrease interest-bearing deposits by not replacing brokered certificates of deposit as they matured.

Shareholders’ Equity. Total shareholders’ equity increased $2.8 million, or 1.2%, to $236.5 million at March 31, 2022, from $233.8 million at December 31, 2021. The increase was primarily due to net income of $5.5 million, stock based compensation expense of $445,000 and employee stock ownership plan shares earned of $383,000, partially offset by the repurchase of 95,229 shares of common stock for $1.5 million, $673,000 from dividends paid, and other comprehensive loss of $1.3 million. Book value per share increased to $13.29 at March 31, 2022 from $13.09 at December 31, 2021.

Asset Quality.

The following table sets forth information regarding our non-performing assets at the dates indicated.



	At		At
	March 31,		December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2022		2021
Non-accrual loans:
Commercial real estate	$	—	$	—
Commercial		1,569		2,080
Residential real estate		306		812
Construction and land development		—		—
Consumer		6		—
Mortgage warehouse		—		—
Total non-accrual loans		1,881		2,892

Accruing loans past due 90 days or more		—		—
Other real estate owned		—		—
Total non-performing assets	$	1,881	$	2,892

Total loans (1)	$	1,456,725	$	1,453,299
Total assets	$	1,792,010	$	1,729,283
Total non-performing loans to total loans (1)		0.13%		0.20%
Total non-performing assets to total assets		0.10%		0.17%

(1) Loans are presented before the allowance for loan losses but include deferred fees/costs.

Non-accrual commercial loan balances decreased for the three-month period ended March 31, 2022 primarily due to a $351,000 charge-off on a commercial relationship that was on non-accrual status with specific reserves of $343,000 at December 31, 2021. The remaining balance of $100,000 related to this relationship remains on non-accrual with no specific reserve due to sufficient collateral coverage. Non-accrual residential real estate loan balances decreased for the three-month period ended March 31, 2022 primarily due to the sale at foreclosure of a $411,000 residential relationship that was on non-accrual status at December 31,2021.

The Company has cooperative relationships with the vast majority of its non-performing loan customers. Repayment of non-performing loans is largely dependent on the return of such loans to performing status or the liquidation of the underlying collateral. The Company pursues the resolution of all non-performing loans through collections, restructures, voluntary liquidation of collateral by the borrower and, where necessary, legal action. When attempts to work with a customer to return a loan to performing status, including restructuring the loan, are unsuccessful, the Company will initiate appropriate legal action seeking to acquire property by deed in lieu of foreclosure or through foreclosure, or to liquidate business assets.

Allowance for Loan Losses. The allowance for loan losses is maintained at levels considered adequate by management to provide for probable loan losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the consolidated balance sheet reporting dates. The allowance for loan losses is based on management’s assessment of various factors affecting the loan portfolio, including loan growth, portfolio composition, delinquent and non-accrual loans, national and local business and economic conditions and loss experience and an overall evaluation of the quality of the underlying collateral.

The following table sets forth activity in our allowance for loan losses for the periods indicated:



	Three Months Ended
	March 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2022		2021
Allowance at beginning of period	$	19,496	$	18,518
Provision for loan losses		83		753
Charge offs:
Commercial real estate		—		150
Commercial		351		43
Residential real estate		—		—
Construction and land development		—		—
Consumer		28		156
Mortgage warehouse		—		—
Total charge-offs		379		349

Recoveries:
Commercial real estate		—		81
Commercial		88		—
Residential real estate		—		—
Construction and land development		—		—
Consumer		8		29
Mortgage warehouse		—		—
Total recoveries		96		110

Net charge-offs		283		239

Allowance at end of period	$	19,296	$	19,032

Non-performing loans at end of period	$	1,881	$	7,455
Total loans outstanding at end of period (1)		1,456,725		1,327,168
Average loans outstanding during the period (1)		1,446,695		1,317,638

Allowance to non-performing loans		1,025.84%		255.29%
Allowance to total loans outstanding at end of period		1.32%		1.43%
Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding during the period (annualized)		0.08%		0.07%

(1) Loans are presented before the allowance for loan losses but include deferred fees/costs

During the three months ended March 31, 2022, the provision for loan losses was $83,000 compared to $753,000 for the same period in 2021. The changes in the provision were based on management’s assessment of economic conditions, loan portfolio growth and composition changes, historical charge-off trends, levels of problem loans and other asset quality trends. Commercial loan growth of $27.0 million was primarily driven by a cash-secured loan which is considered to have no credit risk; therefore we have not provided for losses on this loan. This growth was offset by a decrease in our mortgage warehouse portfolio of $30.2 million, or 11.9%. These changes within our loan portfolio were the primary drivers of lower provision quarter over quarter.

Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2022 and 2021

General. Net income increased $1.2 million, or 28.6%, to $5.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022 from $4.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. The increase was primarily related to an increase of $3.7 million in net interest and dividend income, a decrease in provision for loan losses of $670,000, and an increase in noninterest income of $302,000, partially offset by increases in noninterest expense of $2.2 million and income tax expense of $563,000.

Interest and Dividend Income. Interest and dividend income increased $2.6 million, or 16.1%, to $18.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022 from $15.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. This increase was primarily attributable to an

increase in interest and fees on loans, which increased $2.5 million, or 16.0%, to $18.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022 from $15.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021.The increase in interest income on loans was due to an increase in the average balance of loans of $129.1 million, or 9.8%, to $1.45 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2022, from $1.32 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

Interest Expense. Interest expense decreased $456,000, or 46.5%, to $525,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022 from $981,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2021. The decrease was caused by decreases in interest expense on deposits which decreased $456,000, or 50.1%, to $455,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022 from $911,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2021. This was primarily due to a decrease in average interest bearing deposits of $46.6 million, or 5.5% coupled with a decrease in the cost of interest-bearing deposits of 20 basis points to 0.23% for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 when compared to the same quarter in 2021. The decrease in the average balance of interest bearing deposits was the result of strategic initiatives of the Bank. The decrease in the cost of interest-bearing deposits was due to the lower interest rate environment which prevailed through most of the first quarter of 2022 and the higher percentage of core deposits in the portfolio.

Net Interest and Dividend Income. Net interest and dividend income increased by $3.0 million, or 20.2%, to $17.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022 from $14.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. The growth in net interest and dividend income was primarily the result of an increase in our average interest earning assets of $158.2 million, or 10.8% and an increase in net interest margin of 35 basis points to 4.43%.

Provision for Loan Losses. The provision for loan losses was $83,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to $753,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2021, which was a decrease of $670,000, or 89.0%. The changes in the provision were based on loan portfolio growth and composition changes, historical charge-off trends, levels of problem loans including increased specific reserves, and other asset quality trends. The provision recorded resulted in an allowance for loan losses of $19.3 million, or 1.32% of total loans, at March 31, 2022, compared to $19.5 million, or 1.34% of total loans, at December 31, 2021, and $19.0 million, or 1.43% of total loans, at March 31, 2021.

Noninterest Income. Noninterest income increased $302,000, or 29.7%, to $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to $1.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. The increase was primarily due to an increase in customer service fees on deposit accounts of $202,000, or 53.3%, an increase of $37,000, or 52.9% in other income and an increase in bank owned life insurance income of $37,000, or 16.9%. The increase in customer service fees on deposit accounts is attributable to fees generated from cash vault services for our customers who operate Bitcoin ATMs, as well as growth in our business accounts related to our expanded product offerings to digital asset and BaaS customers. The increase in other income is primarily attributable to gains on sold loans and the increase in bank owned life insurance is primarily due to the purchase of additional insurance policies in the fourth quarter of 2021.

Noninterest Expense. Noninterest expense increased $2.2 million, or 23.9%, to $11.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022 compared to $9.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. The increase was primarily due to an increase in salaries and employee benefits expense, insurance expense, a write down of a receivable balance in the first quarter of 2022 and an increase in professional fees. The increase of $712,000, or 11.0%, in salary and employee benefits was primarily due to an increase in staff to support the development and implementation of new technologies and specialty lending products. The increase in insurance expense of $413,000, or 1,214.7%, is due to a renewal and reassessment that incorporates consideration for our digital asset product strategies. There was a write down of an SBA receivable in the first quarter of 2022 after the Company evaluated the collectability and determined that $395,000 was uncollectible. Professional fees increased $297,000, or 68.9%, primarily due to increased legal fees and audit and compliance costs.

Income Tax Provision. We recorded a provision for income taxes of $2.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022, reflecting an effective tax rate of 28.7%, compared to a provision of $1.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, reflecting an effective tax rate of 27.9%.

Average Balance Sheet and Related Yields and Rates

The following table sets forth the average balance sheets, annualized average yields and costs, and certain other information for the periods indicated. No tax-equivalent yield adjustments have been made, as the amount of tax free interest-earning assets is immaterial. All average balances are daily average balances. Non-accrual loans were included in the computation of average balances. The yields set forth below include the effect of deferred fees, discounts, and premiums that are amortized or accreted to interest income or interest expense.



	For the Three Months Ended March 31,
	2022					2021
			Interest					Interest
	Average		Earned/		Yield/	Average		Earned/		Yield/
(Dollars in thousands)	Balance		Paid		Rate (5)	Balance		Paid		Rate (5)
Assets:
Interest-earning assets:
Loans (1)	$	1,446,695	$	18,212	5.04%	$	1,317,638	$	15,697	4.77%
Short-term investments		136,954		59	0.17%		112,198		23	0.08%
Debt securities available-for-sale		35,820		175	1.95%		31,344		166	2.12%
Federal Home Loan Bank stock		785		4	2.04%		895		3	1.34%
Total interest-earning assets		1,620,254		18,450	4.55%		1,462,075		15,889	4.35%
Non-interest earning assets		108,115					66,157
Total assets	$	1,728,369				$	1,528,232
Liabilities and shareholders' equity:
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Savings accounts	$	153,480	$	40	0.10%	$	151,375	$	55	0.15%
Money market accounts		392,874		250	0.25%		375,078		477	0.51%
NOW accounts		192,564		83	0.17%		153,294		98	0.26%
Certificates of deposit		60,627		82	0.54%		166,388		281	0.68%
Total interest-bearing deposits		799,545		455	0.23%		846,135		911	0.43%
Borrowings		13,500		70	2.07%		13,500		70	2.07%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		813,045		525	0.26%		859,635		981	0.46%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Noninterest-bearing deposits		657,784					412,350
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities		21,064					17,987
Total liabilities		1,491,893					1,289,972
Total equity		236,476					238,260
Total liabilities and
equity	$	1,728,369				$	1,528,232
Net interest income			$	17,925				$	14,908
Interest rate spread (2)					4.29%					3.89%
Net interest-earning assets (3)	$	807,209				$	602,440
Net interest margin (4)					4.43%					4.08%
Average interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities		199.28%					170.08%

(1)Interest earned/paid on loans includes fee income related to SBA loan fee accretion of $373,000 and $625,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and March 31, 2021, respectively. Interest earned/paid on loans also includes mortgage warehouse loan origination fee income of $342,000 and $388,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022 and Mach 31, 2021, respectively.

(2)Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-bearing assets and the weighted average of interest-bearing liabilities.

(3)Net interest-earning assets represent total interest earning assets less total interest-bearing liabilities.

(4)Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.

(5)Annualized.

Rate/Volume Analysis

The following table sets forth the effects of changing rates and volumes on our net interest income. The rate column shows the effects attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume). The volume column shows the effect attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate). The total column represents the sum of the prior columns. For purposes of this table, changes attributable to changes in both rate and volume that cannot be segregated have been allocated proportionately based on the changes due to rate and the changes due to volume.



	For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2022
	Compared to the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021
	Increase (Decrease) Due to				Total
(In thousands)	Rate		Volume		Increase ‎(Decrease)
Interest-earning assets:
Loans	$	922	$	1,593	$	2,515
Short-term investments		30		6		36
Debt securities available-for-sale		(14)		23		9
Federal Home Loan Bank stock		1		—		1
Total interest-earning assets		939		1,622		2,561
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Savings accounts		(16)		1		(15)
Money market accounts		(249)		22		(227)
NOW accounts		(37)		22		(15)
Certificates of deposit		(47)		(152)		(199)
Total interest-bearing deposits		(349)		(107)		(456)
Borrowings		—		—		—
Total interest-bearing liabilities		(349)		(107)		(456)
Change in net interest income	$	1,288	$	1,729	$	3,017

Management of Market Risk

Net Interest Income Simulation. We analyze our sensitivity to changes in interest rates through a net interest income simulation model. Net interest income is the difference between the interest income we earn on our interest-earning assets, such as loans and securities, and the interest we pay on our interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowings. We estimate what our net interest income would be for a 12-month period in the current interest rate environment. We then calculate what the net interest income would be for the same period under the assumption that interest rates increase 200 basis points from current market rates and under the assumption that interest rates decrease 100 basis points from current market rates, with changes in interest rates representing immediate and permanent, parallel shifts in the yield curve.

The following table presents the estimated changes in net interest income of the Company that would result from changes in market interest rates over twelve-month periods beginning March 31, 2022.



	At
	March 31,
	2022
(Dollars in thousands)	Estimated ‎Net Interest Income ‎Over Next 12 Months		Change
Changes in Interest Rates (Basis Points)
200	$	73,539	9.20%
0		67,373	—
-100		61,380	(8.90)%

Economic Value of Equity Simulation. We also analyze the sensitivity of our financial condition to changes in interest rates through an economic value of equity (“EVE”) model. EVE represents the present value of the expected cash flows from our assets less the

present value of the expected cash flows arising from our liabilities adjusted for the value of off-balance sheet contracts. The EVE ratio represents the dollar amount of our EVE divided by the present value of our total assets for a given interest rate scenario. EVE attempts to quantify our economic value using a discounted cash flow methodology while the EVE ratio reflects that value as a form of capital ratio. We estimate what our EVE would be as of a specific date. We then calculate what EVE would be as of the same date throughout a series of interest rate scenarios representing immediate and permanent, parallel shifts in the yield curve. We currently calculate EVE under the assumptions that interest rates increase 100, 200, 300 and 400 basis points from current market rates, and under the assumption that interest rates decrease 100 basis points from current market rates.

The following table presents the estimated changes in EVE of the Company that would result from changes in market interest rates as of March 31, 2022.



	At
	March 31,
	2022
(Dollars in thousands)	Economic ‎Value of ‎Equity		Change
Changes in Interest Rates (Basis Points)
400	$	412,028	3.60%
300		410,412	3.20%
200		407,187	2.50%
100		405,225	2.00%
0		397,083	—
-100		385,944	(2.90)%

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

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Liquidity is the ability to meet current and future financial obligations of a short-term nature. Our primary sources of funds consist of deposit inflows, loan repayments and maturities, FHLB advances, and sales of securities. While maturities and scheduled amortization of loans and securities are predictable sources of funds, deposit flows, mortgage prepayments and sales of securities are greatly influenced by general interest rates, economic conditions and competition.

We regularly review the need to adjust our investments in liquid assets based upon our assessment of: (1) expected loan demand, (2) expected deposit flows and identified volatile deposits, (3) yields available on interest-earning deposits and securities, and (4) the objectives of our asset/liability management program. Excess liquid assets are primarily invested in mortgage-backed securities backed by government sponsored entities, collateralized mortgage obligations, municipal bonds and asset-backed securities.

Our most liquid assets are cash and cash equivalents. The levels of these assets are dependent on our operating, financing, lending and investing activities during any given period. At March 31, 2022, cash and cash equivalents totaled $216.1 million. Securities classified as available-for-sale, which provide additional sources of liquidity, totaled $33.7 million at March 31, 2022. Warehouse loans that have a short-term duration also provide additional sources of liquidity. The balance that meets the definition of a liquid asset totaled $190.5 million as of March 31, 2022.

At March 31, 2022, we had the ability to borrow $118.4 million from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston. On that date, we had $13.5 million in advances outstanding. At March 31, 2022, we also had an available line of credit with the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston’s borrower-in-custody program of $267.9 million, none of which was outstanding as of that date.

We have no material commitments or demands that are likely to affect our liquidity other than as set forth below. In the event loan demand were to increase faster than expected, or any unforeseen demand or commitment were to occur, we could access our borrowing capacity with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston or obtain additional funds through brokered certificates of deposit.

We are a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of our customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit, which involve elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets. At March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we had $56.4 million and $16.4 million in loan commitments outstanding, respectively. In addition to commitments to originate loans, at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, we had $378.2 million and $307.5 million in unadvanced funds to borrowers, respectively. We also had $1.3 million in outstanding letters of credit at March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021.

A significant decrease in deposits could result in the Company having to seek other sources of funds, including brokered certificates of deposit, QwickRate deposits, and Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston advances. Depending on market conditions, we may be required to pay higher rates on such deposits or other borrowings than we currently pay. We believe, however, based on past experience that a significant portion of our deposits will remain with us. We have the ability to attract and retain deposits by adjusting the interest rates offered.

Non-core deposits, or volatile deposits, are accounts where full banking services are not utilized or there is significant volatility expected. The Company has identified $45.4 million in volatile deposits as of March 31, 2022.

The Company maintains access to multiple sources of liquidity. We have utilized wholesale funding markets and have remained open but with rates that have been volatile. If funding costs are elevated for an extended period of time, it could have an adverse effect on the Company’s net interest margin. If an extended recession causes large numbers of the Company’s deposit customers to withdraw their funds, the Company might become mor reliant on volatile or more expensive sources of funding.

The Bank is subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the Massachusetts Commissioner of Banks and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. At March 31, 2022, the Bank exceeded all applicable regulatory capital requirements, and was considered “well capitalized” under regulatory guidelines. See Note 9 of the Notes to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

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

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the President and Chief Executive Officer and the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of March 31, 2022. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the President and Chief Executive Officer and the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

During the quarter ended March 31, 2022, there have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Part II – Other Information

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

Not applicable.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Not applicable to a smaller reporting company.

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

(a)Not applicable.

(b)Not applicable.

(c)On March 12, 2021, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had adopted a stock repurchase program under which it would repurchase up to 1,400,000 shares of its common stock, or approximately 7.5% of the then-current outstanding shares. The repurchase program has no expiration date. The Company’s repurchases of common stock for the first quarter of 2022, under the repurchase program is as follows:



Period	Total ‎Number of ‎Shares ‎Purchased	Average Price ‎Paid ‎per Share		Total Number of ‎Shares Purchased as ‎Part of Publicly ‎Announced Plans or ‎Programs	Maximum Number of ‎Shares that May Yet ‎Be Purchased Under ‎the Plans or ‎Programs
January 1, 2022 - January 31, 2022 (1)	202	$	18.87	—	434,955
February 1, 2022 - February 28, 2022	7,888	$	16.17	7,888	427,067
March 1, 2022 - March 31, 2022	87,341	$	15.91	87,341	339,726
Total	95,431	$	15.94	95,229

(1)Shares repurchased are related to the surrendering of shares to cover tax withholdings on vested restricted stock awards.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information

None.

‎

Item 6. Exhibits


3.1	Articles of Incorporation of Provident Bancorp, Inc. (1)
3.2	Bylaws of Provident Bancorp, Inc. (1)
3.3	Amendment to Bylaws (2)
31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32	Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101	The following financial statements from the Provident Bancorp, Inc. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022, formatted in Inline Extensible Business Reporting Language (iXBRL): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Income; (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity; (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; and (vi) Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements.
104	Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as iXBRL and contained in exhibit 101).

_________________

(1)Incorporated by reference to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-232018), initially filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 7, 2019.

(2)Incorporated by reference to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (file no. 001-39090), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2021.

‎

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.


		PROVIDENT BANCORP, INC.

Date: May 12, 2022		/s/ David P. Mansfield
		David P. Mansfield
		President and Chief Executive Officer

Date: May 12, 2022		/s/ Carol L. Houle
		Carol L. Houle
		Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Provident Bancorp, Inc. /MD/ - Quarter Report: 2022 March (Form 10-Q)

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549