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WESTAMERICA BANCORPORATION - Quarter Report: 2020 June (Form 10-Q)

wabc20200630_10q.htm
 


UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

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

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2020

or

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

For the transition period from __________ to __________.

 

Commission file number: 001-09383

WESTAMERICA BANCORPORATION

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

California94-2156203

(State or Other Jurisdiction of 

Incorporation or Organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

 

1108 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael, California 94901

(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)

 

Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code (707) 863-6000

 

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

 

Title of each class

Trading Symbol(s)

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, no par value

WABC

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 filing requirements for the past 90 days.

 

Yes ☒                                                                                       No ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).

 

Yes ☒                                                                                       No ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a 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. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer ☒

Accelerated filer ☐

    Non-accelerated filer ☐ 

 

Smaller reporting company ☐

Emerging growth company ☐

 

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

 

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

 

Yes ☐                                                                                        No ☒

 

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

 

Title of ClassShares outstanding as of July 29, 2020

Common Stock, 

No Par Value

26,932,929

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

Page

Forward Looking Statements

3

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1

 

Financial Statements

4

 

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

 9

Item 2

 

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

33

Item 3

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

56

Item 4

 

Controls and Procedures

56

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1

 

Legal Proceedings

56

Item 1A

 

Risk Factors

56

Item 2

 

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

58

Item 3

 

Defaults upon Senior Securities

58

Item 4

 

Mine Safety Disclosures

58

Item 5

 

Other Information

58

Item 6

 

Exhibits

59

Signatures

60

 

 

 

 

-2-

 

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements about Westamerica Bancorporation (the “Company”) for which it claims the protection of the safe harbor provisions contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (i) projections of revenues, expenses, future credit quality and performance, the appropriateness of the allowance for credit losses, loan growth or reduction, mitigation of risk in the Company’s loan and investment securities portfolios, income or loss, earnings or loss per share, the payment or nonpayment of dividends, capital structure and other financial items; (ii) statements of plans, objectives and expectations of the Company or its management or board of directors, including those relating to products or services; (iii) statements of future economic performance; and (iv) statements of assumptions underlying such statements. Words such as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", “estimates”, "intends", "targeted", "projected", “forecast”, "continue", "remain", "will", "should", "may" and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements.

 

These forward-looking statements are based on Management’s current knowledge and belief and include information concerning the Company’s possible or assumed future financial condition and results of operations. A number of factors, some of which are beyond the Company’s ability to predict or control, could cause future results to differ materially from those contemplated. These factors include but are not limited to (1) the length and severity of difficulties in the global, national and California economies and the effects of government efforts to address those difficulties; (2) liquidity levels in capital markets; (3) fluctuations in asset prices including, but not limited to stocks, bonds, real estate, and commodities; (4) the effect of acquisitions and integration of acquired businesses; (5) economic uncertainty created by riots, terrorist threats and attacks on the United States, the actions taken in response, and the uncertain effect of these events on the local, regional and national economies; (6) changes in the interest rate environment; (7) changes in the regulatory environment; (8) competitive pressure in the banking industry; (9) operational risks including a failure or breach in data processing or security systems or those of third party vendors and other service providers, including as a result of cyber attacks or fraud; (10) volatility of interest rate sensitive loans, deposits and investments; (11) asset/liability management risks and liquidity risks; (12) the effect of natural disasters, including earthquakes, fire, flood, drought, pandemics and other disasters on the Company, including on the uninsured value of the Company’s assets and of loan collateral, the financial condition of debtors and issuers of investment securities, the economic conditions affecting the Company’s market place, and commodities and asset values; (13) changes in the securities markets; and (14) the duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic and governmental responses to the pandemic; and (15) the outcome of contingencies, such as legal proceedings. However, the reader should not consider the above-mentioned factors to be a complete set of all potential risks or uncertainties.

 

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements in this report to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date forward looking statements are made, except as may be required by law. The reader is directed to the Company's Form 8-K filed on April 16, 2020, and the annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019, for further discussion of factors which could affect the Company's business and cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement made in this report.

 

 

-3-

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1      Financial Statements

 

 

WESTAMERICA BANCORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

 

  

At June 30,

  

At December 31,

 
  

2020

  

2019

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Assets:

        

Cash and due from banks

 $500,820  $373,421 

Debt securities available for sale

  3,708,370   3,078,846 

Debt securities held to maturity, net of allowance for credit losses of $16 at June 30, 2020 and $ - at December 31, 2019 (Fair value of $656,390 at June 30, 2020 and $744,296 at December 31, 2019)

  638,281   738,072 

Loans

  1,316,359   1,126,664 

Allowance for credit losses on loans

  (24,529)  (19,484)

Loans, net of allowance for credit losses on loans

  1,291,830   1,107,180 

Other real estate owned

  43   43 

Premises and equipment, net

  34,061   34,597 

Identifiable intangibles, net

  1,245   1,391 

Goodwill

  121,673   121,673 

Other assets

  167,566   164,332 

Total Assets

 $6,463,889  $5,619,555 
         

Liabilities:

        

Noninterest-bearing deposits

 $2,702,885  $2,240,112 

Interest-bearing deposits

  2,765,527   2,572,509 

Total deposits

  5,468,412   4,812,621 

Short-term borrowed funds

  86,170   30,928 

Other liabilities

  101,231   44,589 

Total Liabilities

  5,655,813   4,888,138 
         

Contingencies (Note 10)

          
         

Shareholders' Equity:

        

Common stock (no par value), authorized - 150,000 shares Issued and outstanding: 26,933 at June 30, 2020 and 27,062 at December 31, 2019

  467,351   465,460 

Deferred compensation

  35   771 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

  93,732   26,051 

Retained earnings

  246,958   239,135 

Total Shareholders' Equity

  808,076   731,417 

Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

 $6,463,889  $5,619,555 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

-4-

 

 

WESTAMERICA BANCORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(unaudited)

 

   

For the Three Months

   

For the Six Months

 
   

Ended June 30,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

 
   

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

Interest and Loan Fee Income:

                               

Loans

  $ 15,278     $ 14,822     $ 29,087     $ 29,619  

Equity securities

    103       99       206       197  

Debt securities available for sale

    22,429       17,823       43,744       35,344  

Debt securities held to maturity

    3,616       4,924       7,524       10,253  

Interest-bearing cash

    113       1,958       969       3,696  

Total Interest and Loan Fee Income

    41,539       39,626       81,530       79,109  

Interest Expense:

                               

Deposits

    424       478       858       963  

Short-term borrowed funds

    10       9       18       18  

Other borrowed funds

    1       -       1       -  

Total Interest Expense

    435       487       877       981  

Net Interest and Loan Fee Income

    41,104       39,139       80,653       78,128  

Provision for Credit Losses

    -       -       4,300       -  

Net Interest and Loan Fee Income After Provision for Credit Losses

    41,104       39,139       76,353       78,128  

Noninterest Income:

                               

Service charges on deposit accounts

    3,151       4,493       7,399       8,997  

Merchant processing services

    2,277       2,657       4,635       5,215  

Debit card fees

    1,459       1,641       2,927       3,148  

Trust fees

    714       749       1,491       1,466  

ATM processing fees

    518       722       1,097       1,355  

Other service fees

    420       585       926       1,162  

Financial services commissions

    123       93       248       194  

Securities gains

    71       26       71       50  

Life insurance gains

    -       433       -       433  

Other noninterest income

    821       889       2,408       1,847  

Total Noninterest Income

    9,554       12,288       21,202       23,867  

Noninterest Expense:

                               

Salaries and related benefits

    12,900       13,090       25,918       26,198  

Occupancy and equipment

    4,791       4,916       9,723       9,964  

Outsourced data processing services

    2,324       2,367       4,729       4,736  

Professional fees

    643       481       1,032       1,146  

Courier service

    508       451       999       893  

Amortization of identifiable intangibles

    73       79       146       389  

Loss contingency

    -       553       -       553  

Other noninterest expense

    3,515       3,624       6,871       6,865  

Total Noninterest Expense

    24,754       25,561       49,418       50,744  

Income Before Income Taxes

    25,904       25,866       48,137       51,251  

Provision for income taxes

    6,342       6,241       11,613       11,980  

Net Income

  $ 19,562     $ 19,625     $ 36,524     $ 39,271  
                                 

Average Common Shares Outstanding

    26,935       26,942       27,001       26,892  

Average Diluted Common Shares Outstanding

    26,951       26,987       27,024       26,950  

Per Common Share Data:

                               

Basic earnings

  $ 0.72     $ 0.73     $ 1.35     $ 1.46  

Diluted earnings

    0.72       0.73       1.35       1.46  

Dividends paid

    0.41       0.41       0.82       0.81  

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

-5-

 

 

WESTAMERICA BANCORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(unaudited)

 

   

For the Three Months

   

For the Six Months

 
   

Ended June 30,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Net income

  $ 19,562     $ 19,625     $ 36,524     $ 39,271  

Other comprehensive income:

                               

Changes in net unrealized gains on debt securities available for sale

    132,902       34,602       96,158       75,415  

Deferred tax expense

    (39,291 )     (10,229 )     (28,427 )     (22,295 )

Reclassification of gains included in net income

    (71 )     -       (71 )     -  

Deferred tax expense on gains included in net income

    21       -       21       -  

Changes in net unrealized gains on debt securities available for sale, net of tax

    93,561       24,373       67,681       53,120  

Total comprehensive income

  $ 113,123     $ 43,998     $ 104,205     $ 92,391  

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-6-

 

 

WESTAMERICA BANCORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(unaudited)

 

              

Accumulated

         
  

Common

          

Other

         
  

Shares

  

Common

  

Deferred

  

Comprehensive

  

Retained

     
  

Outstanding

  

Stock

  

Compensation

  

Income (Loss)

  

Earnings

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands except dividend per share)

 
                         

Balance, March 31, 2020

  26,932  $465,701  $771  $171  $238,903  $705,546 

Net income for the period

                  19,562   19,562 

Other comprehensive income

              93,561       93,561 

Exercise of stock options

  13   572               572 

Restricted stock activity

  -   736   (736)          - 

Stock based compensation

      525               525 

Stock awarded to employees

  1   45               45 

Retirement of common stock

  (13)  (228)          (391)  (619)

Dividends ($0.41 per share)

                  (11,116)  (11,116)

Balance, June 30, 2020

  26,933  $467,351  $35  $93,732  $246,958  $808,076 
                         

Balance, December 31, 2019

  27,062  $465,460  $771  $26,051  $239,135  $731,417 

Adoption of ASU 2016-13

                  52   52 

Adjusted Balance, January 1, 2020

  27,062   465,460   771   26,051   239,187   731,469 

Net income for the period

                  36,524   36,524 

Other comprehensive income

              67,681       67,681 

Exercise of stock options

  53   2,838               2,838 

Restricted stock activity

  10   1,270   (736)          534 

Stock based compensation

      1,050               1,050 

Stock awarded to employees

  1   66               66 

Retirement of common stock

  (193)  (3,333)          (6,533)  (9,866)

Dividends ($0.82 per share)

                  (22,220)  (22,220)

Balance, June 30, 2020

  26,933  $467,351  $35  $93,732  $246,958  $808,076 
                         

Balance, March 31, 2019

  26,901  $455,304  $771  $(11,249) $211,941  $656,767 

Net income for the period

                  19,625   19,625 

Other comprehensive income

              24,373       24,373 

Exercise of stock options

  50   2,539               2,539 

Restricted stock activity

  18   1,073               1,073 

Stock based compensation

  -   541               541 

Stock awarded to employees

  1   48               48 

Retirement of common stock

  (8)  (136)          (352)  (488)

Dividends ($0.41 per share)

                  (11,041)  (11,041)

Balance, June 30, 2019

  26,962  $459,369  $771  $13,124  $220,173  $693,437 
                         

Balance, December 31, 2018

  26,730  $448,351  $1,395  $(39,996) $205,841  $615,591 

Cumulative effect of bond premium amortization adjustment, net of tax

                  (2,801)  (2,801)

Adjusted Balance, January 1, 2019

  26,730   448,351   1,395   (39,996)  203,040   612,790 

Net income for the period

                  39,271   39,271 

Other comprehensive income

              53,120       53,120 

Shares issued from stock warrant exercise, net of repurchase

  51                   - 

Exercise of stock options

  170   8,310               8,310 

Restricted stock activity

  18   1,697   (624)          1,073 

Stock based compensation

  -   1,082               1,082 

Stock awarded to employees

  1   65               65 

Retirement of common stock

  (8)  (136)          (352)  (488)

Dividends ($0.81 per share)

                  (21,786)  (21,786)

Balance, June 30, 2019

  26,962  $459,369  $771  $13,124  $220,173  $693,437 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

-7-

 

 

WESTAMERICA BANCORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 

(unaudited)

 

   

For the Six Months

 
   

Ended June 30,

 
   

2020

   

2019

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Operating Activities:

               

Net income

  $ 36,524     $ 39,271  

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

               

Depreciation and amortization/accretion

    12,361       9,852  

Provision for credit losses

    4,300       -  

Stock option compensation expense

    1,050       1,082  

Securities gains

    (71 )     (50 )

Life insurance gains

    -       (433 )

Net change in:

               

Amortization of deferred loan fees

    (1,057 )     (215 )

Interest income receivable

    (3,526 )     (673 )

Income taxes receivable

    -       (6,549 )

Income taxes payable

    (585 )     -  

Deferred income taxes

    478       4,902  

Other assets

    (12,478 )     (20,013 )

Interest expense payable

    52       44  

Other liabilities

    28,875       12,323  

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

    65,923       39,541  
                 

Investing Activities:

               

Net (disbursements) repayments of loans

    (189,704 )     44,721  

Proceeds from life insurance policies

    -       1,273  

Purchases of debt securities available for sale

    (869,942 )     (418,223 )

Proceeds from sale/maturity/calls of debt securities available for sale

    343,170       368,216  

Proceeds from maturity/calls of debt securities held to maturity

    97,555       111,099  

Purchases of premises and equipment

    (1,389 )     (1,425 )

Proceeds from sale of foreclosed assets

    -       307  

Net Cash (Used in) Provided by Investing Activities

    (620,310 )     105,968  
                 

Financing Activities:

               

Net change in:

               

Deposits

    655,791       (136,577 )

Short-term borrowings

    55,243       3,334  

Exercise of stock options

    2,838       8,310  

Retirement of common stock

    (9,866 )     (488 )

Common stock dividends paid

    (22,220 )     (21,786 )

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities

    681,786       (147,207 )

Net Change In Cash and Due from Banks

    127,399       (1,698 )

Cash and Due from Banks at Beginning of Period

    373,421       420,284  

Cash and Due from Banks at End of Period

  $ 500,820     $ 418,586  
                 

Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures:

               

Supplemental disclosure of non cash activities:

               

Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for operating lease liabilities

  $ 1,639     $ 23,087  

Amount recognized upon initial adoption of ASU 2016-02

    -       15,325  

Securities purchases pending settlement

    13,632       -  

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow activities:

               

Cash paid for amounts included in operating lease liabilities

    3,276       3,411  

Interest paid for the period

    825       874  

Income tax payments for the period

    11,900       12,910  

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

-8-

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

Note 1: Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America for interim financial information and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and follow general practices within the banking industry. The results of operations reflect interim adjustments, all of which are of a normal recurring nature and which, in the opinion of Management, are necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented. The interim results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full year. These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes as well as other information included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

 

 

Note 2: Accounting Policies

 

The most significant accounting policies followed by the Company are presented in Note 1 to the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019. These policies, along with the disclosures presented in the other financial statement notes and in this discussion, provide information on how significant assets and liabilities are valued in the financial statements and how those values are determined. Based on the valuation techniques used and the sensitivity of financial statement amounts to the methods, assumptions, and estimates underlying those amounts, it is reasonably possible conditions could change materially affecting results of operations and financial conditions.

 

Application of these principles requires the Company to make certain estimates, assumptions, and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates, assumptions, and judgments are based on information available as of the date of the financial statements; accordingly, as this information changes, the financial statements could reflect different estimates, assumptions, and judgments. Certain accounting policies inherently have a greater reliance on the use of estimates, assumptions and judgments and as such have a greater possibility of producing results that could be materially different than originally reported. Estimates, assumptions and judgments are necessary when assets and liabilities are required to be recorded at fair value, when a decline in the value of an asset not carried on the financial statements at fair value warrants a writedown or valuation reserve to be established, or when an asset or liability needs to be recorded contingent upon a future event. Carrying assets and liabilities at fair value inherently results in more financial statement volatility. The fair values and the information used to record valuation adjustments for certain assets and liabilities are based either on quoted market prices or are provided by other third-party sources, when available.

 

Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

 

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

 

In the six months ended June 30, 2020, the Company adopted the following new accounting guidance:

 

FASB ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, was issued on June 16, 2016. The ASU significantly changed estimates for credit losses related to financial assets measured at amortized cost and certain other contracts. For estimating credit losses, the FASB replaced the incurred loss model with the current expected credit loss (CECL) model, which accelerated recognition of credit losses. Additionally, credit losses relating to debt securities available-for-sale are recorded through an allowance for credit losses under the new standard. The Company is also required to provide additional disclosures related to the financial assets within the scope of the new standard.

 

The Company adopted the ASU provisions on a modified retrospective basis on January 1, 2020. Management evaluated available data, defined portfolio segments of loans with similar attributes, and selected loss estimate models for each identified loan portfolio segment. Management measured historical loss rates for each portfolio segment. Management also segmented debt securities held to maturity, selected methods to estimate losses for each segment, and measured a loss estimate. Agency mortgage-backed securities were assigned no credit loss allowance due to the perceived backing of government sponsored entities. Municipal securities were evaluated for risk of default based on credit rating and remaining term to maturity using Moody’s risk of default factors; Moody’s loss upon default factors were applied to the assumed defaulted principal amounts to estimate the amount for credit loss allowance. The adjustment to the allowance for credit losses was recorded through an offsetting after-tax adjustment to shareholders’ equity. The implementing entry increased allowance for credit losses by $2,017 thousand, reduced allowance for credit losses for unfunded credit commitments by $2,107 thousand and increased retained earnings by $52 thousand.

 

- 9-

 

The following table summarizes the impact of adoption of ASU 2016-13.

 

  

January 1, 2020

 
  

Balance,

  

Impact of

  

As reported

 
  

prior to adoption

  

adoption of

  

under

 
  

of ASU 2016-13

  

ASU 2016-13

  

ASU 2016-13

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Assets:

            

Allowance for credit losses on loans:

            

Commercial

 $4,959  $3,385  $8,344 

Commercial real estate

  4,064   618   4,682 

Construction

  109   (31)  78 

Residential real estate

  206   (132)  74 

Consumer and other installment loans

  6,445   1,878   8,323 

Unallocated

  3,701   (3,701)  - 

Allowance for credit losses on loans

 $19,484  $2,017  $21,501 
             

Allowance for credit losses on debt securities held to maturity

  -   16   16 
             

Liabilities:

            

Allowance for credit losses for unfunded commitments 

  2,160   (2,107)  53 

 

Debt Securities. Debt securities consist of the U.S. Treasury, securities of government sponsored entities, states, counties, municipalities, corporations, agency and non-agency mortgage-backed securities, and collateralized loan obligations. Securities transactions are recorded on a trade date basis. The Company classifies its debt securities in one of three categories: trading, available for sale or held to maturity. Trading securities are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term. Trading securities are recorded at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in net income. Held to maturity debt securities are those securities which the Company has the ability and intent to hold until maturity. Held to maturity debt securities are recorded at cost, adjusted for the amortization of premiums or accretion of discounts. Securities not included in trading or held to maturity are classified as available for sale debt securities. Available for sale debt securities are recorded at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses, net of the related tax effect, on available for sale debt securities are included in accumulated other comprehensive income. Accrued interest is recorded within other assets and reversed against interest income if it is not received.

 

The Company utilizes third-party sources to value its investment securities; securities individually valued using quoted prices in active markets are classified as Level 1 assets in the fair value hierarchy, and securities valued using quoted prices in active markets for similar securities (commonly referred to as “matrix” pricing) are classified as Level 2 assets in the fair value hierarchy. The Company validates the reliability of third-party provided values by comparing individual security pricing for securities between more than one third-party source. When third-party information is not available, valuation adjustments are estimated in good faith by Management and classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

 

The Company follows the guidance issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, “Investing in Securities without Reliance on Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Agencies” (SR 12-15) and other regulatory guidance when performing investment security pre-purchase analysis or evaluating investment securities for credit loss. Credit ratings issued by recognized rating agencies are considered in the Company’s analysis only as a guide to the historical default rate associated with similarly-rated bonds.

 

To the extent that debt securities in the held-to-maturity portfolio share common risk characteristics, estimated expected credit losses are calculated in a manner like that used for loans held for investment. That is, for pools of such securities with common risk characteristics, the historical lifetime probability of default and severity of loss in the event of default is derived or obtained from external sources and adjusted for the expected effects of reasonable and supportable forecasts over the expected lives of the securities on those historical credit losses. Expected credit loss on each security in the held-to-maturity portfolio that do not share common risk characteristics with any of the pools of debt securities is individually evaluated and a reserve for credit losses is established at the difference between the discounted value of the expected future cash flows, based on the original effective interest rate, and the recorded amortized cost basis of the security. For certain classes of debt securities, the bank considers the history of credit losses, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts, which may indicate that the expectation that nonpayment of the amortized cost basis is or continues to be zero. Therefore, for those securities, the bank does not record expected credit losses.

 

- 10-

 

AFS debt securities in unrealized loss positions are evaluated for credit related loss at least quarterly. For AFS debt securities, a decline in fair value due to credit loss results in recording an allowance for credit losses to the extent the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Declines in fair value that have not been recorded through an allowance for credit losses, such as declines due to changes in market interest rates, are recorded through other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. Although these evaluations involve significant judgment, an unrealized loss in the fair value of a debt security is generally considered to not be related to credit when the fair value of the security is below the carrying value primarily due to changes in risk-free interest rates, there has not been significant deterioration in the financial condition of the issuer, and the Company does not intend to sell nor does it believe it will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its cost basis.

 

If the Company intends to sell a debt security or more likely than not will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the debt security is written down to its fair value and the write down is charged against the allowance for credit losses with any incremental loss reported in earnings.

 

Purchase premiums are amortized to the earliest call date and purchase discounts are amortized to maturity as an adjustment to yield using the effective interest method. Unamortized premiums, unaccreted discounts, and early payment premiums are recognized as a component of gain or loss on sale upon disposition of the related security. Interest and dividend income are recognized when earned. Realized gains and losses from the sale of available for sale securities are included in earnings using the specific identification method.

 

Nonmarketable Equity Securities. Nonmarketable equity securities include securities that are not publicly traded, such as Visa Class B common stock, and securities acquired to meet regulatory requirements, such as Federal Reserve Bank stock, which are restricted. These restricted securities are accounted for under the cost method and are included in other assets. The Company reviews those assets accounted for under the cost method at least quarterly. The Company’s review typically includes an analysis of the facts and circumstances of each investment, the expectations for the investment’s cash flows and capital needs, the viability of its business model and any exit strategy. When the review indicates that impairment exists the asset value is reduced to fair value. The Company recognizes the estimated loss in noninterest income.

 

Loans. Loans are stated at the principal amount outstanding, net of unearned discount and unamortized deferred fees and costs. Interest is accrued daily on the outstanding principal balances and included in other assets. Loans which are more than 90 days delinquent with respect to interest or principal, unless they are well secured and in the process of collection, and other loans on which full recovery of principal or interest is in doubt, are placed on nonaccrual status. Interest previously accrued on loans placed on nonaccrual status is charged against interest income. In addition, some loans secured by real estate and commercial loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties are placed on nonaccrual status even though the borrowers continue to repay the loans as scheduled. When the ability to fully collect nonaccrual loan principal is in doubt, payments received are applied against the principal balance of the loans on a cost-recovery method until such time as full collection of the remaining recorded balance is expected. Any additional interest payments received after that time are recorded as interest income on a cash basis. Nonaccrual loans are reinstated to accrual status when none of the loan’s principal and interest is past due and improvements in credit quality eliminate doubt as to the full collectability of both principal and interest, or the loan otherwise becomes well secured and in the process of collection. Certain consumer loans or auto receivables are charged off against the allowance for credit losses when they become 120 days past due.

 

A troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”) occurs when the Company, for reasons related to a borrower’s financial difficulties, grants a concession to the borrower it would not otherwise consider. The Company follows its general nonaccrual policy for TDRs. Performing TDRs are reinstated to accrual status when improvements in credit quality eliminate the doubt as to full collectability of both principal and interest. Under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, banks may elect to deem that loan modifications do not result in TDRs if they are (1) related to the novel coronavirus disease; (2) executed on a loan that was not more than 30 days past due as of December 31, 2019; and (3) executed between March 1, 2020, and the earlier of (A) 60 days after the date of termination of the National Emergency or (B) December 31, 2020.

 

Allowance for Credit Losses. The Company extends loans to commercial and consumer customers primarily in Northern and Central California. These lending activities expose the Company to the risk borrowers will default, causing loan losses. The Company’s lending activities are exposed to various qualitative risks. All loan segments are exposed to risks inherent in the economy and market conditions. Significant risk characteristics related to the commercial loan segment include the borrowers’ business performance and financial condition, and the value of collateral for secured loans. Significant risk characteristics related to the commercial real estate segment include the borrowers’ business performance and the value of properties collateralizing the loans. Significant risk characteristics related to the construction loan segment include the borrowers’ performance in successfully developing the real estate into the intended purpose and the value of the property collateralizing the loans. Significant risk characteristics related to the residential real estate segment include the borrowers’ financial wherewithal to service the mortgages and the value of the property collateralizing the loans. Significant risk characteristics related to the consumer loan segment include the financial condition of the borrowers and the value of collateral securing the loans.

 

- 11-

 

The preparation of these financial statements requires Management to estimate the amount of expected losses over the expected contractual life of our existing loan portfolio and establish an allowance for credit losses. Loan agreements generally include a maturity date, and the Company considers the contractual life of a loan agreement to extend from the date of origination to the contractual maturity date. In estimating credit losses, Management must exercise significant judgment in evaluating information deemed relevant. The amount of ultimate losses on the loan portfolio can vary from the estimated amounts. Management follows a systematic methodology to estimate loss potential in an effort to reduce the differences between estimated and actual losses.

 

The allowance for credit losses is established through provisions for credit losses charged to income. Losses on loans are charged to the allowance for credit losses when all or a portion of the recorded amount of a loan is deemed to be uncollectible. Recoveries of loans previously charged off are credited to the allowance when realized. The Company’s allowance for credit losses is maintained at a level considered adequate to provide for expected losses based on historical loss rates adjusted for current and expected conditions over a forecast period. These include conditions unique to individual borrowers, as well as overall credit loss experience, the amount of past due, nonperforming and classified loans, recommendations of regulatory authorities, prevailing economic conditions, or credit protection agreements and other factors.

 

Loans that share common risk characteristics are segregated into pools based on common characteristics, which is primarily determined by loan, borrower, or collateral type. Historical loss rates are determined for each pool. For consumer installment loans, primarily secured by automobiles, historical loss rates are determined using a vintage methodology, which tracks losses based on period of origination. For commercial, construction, and commercial real estate, historical loss rates are determined using an open pool methodology where losses are tracked over time for all loans included in the pool at the historical measurement date. Historical loss rates are adjusted for factors that are not reflected in the historical loss rates that are attributable to national or local economic or industry trends which have occurred but have not yet been recognized in past loan charge-off history, estimated losses based on management’s reasonable and supportable expectation of economic trends over a forecast horizon of up to two years, and other factors that impact credit loss expectations that are not reflected in the historical loss rates. Other factors include, but are not limited to, the effectiveness of the Company’s loan review system, adequacy of lending Management and staff, loan policies and procedures, problem loan trends, and concentrations of credit. At the end of the two-year forecast period loss rates revert immediately to the historical loss rates. The results of this analysis are applied to the amortized cost of the loans included within each pool.

 

Loans that do not share risk characteristics with other loans in the pools are evaluated individually. A loan is considered ‘collateral-dependent’ when the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral. A credit loss reserve for collateral-dependent loans is established at the difference between the amortized cost basis in the loan and the fair value of the underlying collateral adjusted for costs to sell. For other individually evaluated loans that are not collateral dependent, a credit loss reserve is established at the difference between the amortized cost basis in the loan and the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate. The impact of an expected TDR modification is included in the allowance for credit losses when management determines a TDR modification is likely.

 

Accrued interest is recorded in other assets and is excluded from the estimation of expected credit loss. Accrued interest is reversed through interest income when amounts are determined to be uncollectible, which generally occurs when the underlying receivable is placed on nonaccrual status or charged off.

 

Liability for Off-Balance Sheet Credit Exposures. Off-balance sheet credit exposures relate to letters of credit and unfunded loan commitments for commercial, construction and consumer loans. The Company maintains a separate allowance for credit losses from off-balance-sheet credit exposures, which is included within other liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial condition. Increases or reductions to the Company’s allowance for credit losses from off-balance sheet credit exposures are recorded in other expenses. Management estimates the amount of expected losses by estimating expected usage exposures that are not unconditionally cancellable by the Company and applying the loss factors used in the allowance for credit loss methodology to estimate the liability for credit losses related to unfunded commitments. No credit loss estimate is reported for off-balance-sheet credit exposures that are unconditionally cancellable by the Company or for undrawn amounts under such arrangements that may be drawn prior to the cancellation of the arrangement.

 

- 12-

 

FASB ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurements (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement, was issued August 2018. The ASU is part of the disclosure framework project, where the primary focus is to improve the effectiveness of disclosures in the financial statements. The ASU removes, modifies and adds disclosure requirements related to Fair Value Measurements.

 

The provisions of the ASU were effective January 1, 2020 with the option to early adopt any removed or modified disclosures upon issuance of the ASU. The Company early adopted the provisions to remove and/or modify relevant disclosures in the “Fair Value Measurements” note to the unaudited consolidated financial statements. The requirement to include additional disclosures was adopted by the Company January 1, 2020. The additional disclosures did not affect the financial results upon adoption.

 

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

 

FASB ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes, was issued December 2019. The ASU is intended to simplify various aspects related to accounting for income taxes, eliminates certain exceptions to the general principles in ASC Topic 740 related to intra-period tax allocation, simplifies when companies recognize deferred taxes in an interim period, and clarifies certain aspects of the current guidance to promote consistent application. This guidance effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, and for interim period within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. This guidance is applicable to the Company’s fiscal year beginning January 1, 2021. The Company is currently evaluating the potential effects of this guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

 

FASB ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes, was issued March 2020. The ASU provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP to loan and lease agreements, derivative contracts, and other transactions affected by the anticipated transition away from LIBOR toward new interest rate benchmarks. For transactions that are modified because of reference rate reform and that meet certain scope guidance (i) modifications of loan agreements should be accounted for by prospectively adjusting the effective interest rate and the modification will be considered "minor" so that any existing unamortized origination fees/costs would carry forward and continue to be amortized and (ii) 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 derivative accounting. ASU 2020-04 is effective March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. An entity may elect to apply ASU 2020-04 for contract modifications as of January 1, 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 for a Topic or an Industry Subtopic within the Codification, the amendments in this ASU must be applied prospectively for all eligible contract modifications for that Topic or Industry Subtopic. The Company is currently evaluating the impacts of this ASU and has not yet determined whether LIBOR transition and this ASU will have material effects on our business operations and consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

 

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- 13-

 

 

 

Note 3: Investment Securities

 

The market value of equity securities was $1,797 thousand at June 30, 2019. During the six months ended June 30, 2019, the Company recognized gross unrealized holding gains of $50 thousand in earnings. The Company had no equity securities at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019 due to the sales of such securities during the third quarter 2019.

 

During the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2020, the Company provided no provision for credit loss on debt securities held to maturity. An analysis of the amortized cost and fair value by major categories of debt securities available for sale, which are carried at fair value with net unrealized gains (losses) reported on an after-tax basis as a component of cumulative other comprehensive income, and debt securities held to maturity, which are carried at amortized cost, before allowance for credit losses of $16 thousand, follows:

 

  

At June 30, 2020

 
      

Gross

  

Gross

     
  

Amortized

  

Unrealized

  

Unrealized

  

Fair

 
  

Cost

  

Gains

  

Losses

  

Value

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities available for sale

             

Agency residential mortgage-backed securities ("MBS")

 $811,331  $28,755  $(1) $840,085 

Agency commercial MBS

  3,638   -   (9)  3,629 

Securities of U.S. Government entities

  171   -   -   171 

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

  147,260   4,932   (38)  152,154 

Corporate securities

  2,170,503   100,018   (1,110)  2,269,411 

Commercial paper

  299,742   45   (205)  299,582 

Collateralized Loan Obligations

  142,652   738   (52)  143,338 

Total debt securities available for sale

  3,575,297   134,488   (1,415)  3,708,370 

Debt securities held to maturity

             

Agency residential MBS

  304,439   9,364   (45)  313,758 

Non-agency residential MBS

  2,112   14   -   2,126 

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

  331,746   8,760   -   340,506 

Total debt securities held to maturity

  638,297   18,138   (45)  656,390 

Total

 $4,213,594  $152,626  $(1,460) $4,364,760 

 

  

At December 31, 2019

 
      

Gross

  

Gross

     
  

Amortized

  

Unrealized

  

Unrealized

  

Fair

 
  

Cost

  

Gains

  

Losses

  

Value

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities available for sale

          

U.S. Treasury securities

 $19,999  $1  $-  $20,000 

Securities of U.S. Government sponsored entities

  111,251   14   (98)  111,167 

Agency residential mortgage-backed securities (MBS)

  934,592   10,996   (5,838)  939,750 

Agency commercial MBS

  3,711   -   (3)  3,708 

Securities of U.S. Government entities

  553   -   (9)  544 

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

  159,527   3,656   (44)  163,139 

Corporate securities

  1,805,479   29,183   (879)  1,833,783 

Collateralized Loan Obligations

  6,748   7   -   6,755 

Total debt securities available for sale

  3,041,860   43,857   (6,871)  3,078,846 

Debt securities held to maturity

             

Agency residential MBS

  353,937   766   (2,235)  352,468 

Non-agency residential MBS

  2,354   22   -   2,376 

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

  381,781   7,672   (1)  389,452 

Total debt securities held to maturity

  738,072   8,460   (2,236)  744,296 

Total

 $3,779,932  $52,317  $(9,107) $3,823,142 

 

- 14-

 

The amortized cost and fair value of debt securities by contractual maturity are shown in the following tables at the dates indicated:

 

  

At June 30, 2020

 
  

Debt Securities Available

  

Debt Securities Held

 
  

for Sale

  

to Maturity

 
  

Amortized

  

Fair

  

Amortized

  

Fair

 
  

Cost

  

Value

  

Cost

  

Value

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Maturity in years:

             

1 year or less

 $528,253  $529,421  $57,015  $57,392 

Over 1 to 5 years

  1,062,469   1,116,754   146,003   149,824 

Over 5 to 10 years

  1,142,837   1,190,058   128,728   133,290 

Over 10 years

  26,769   28,423   -   - 

Subtotal

  2,760,328   2,864,656   331,746   340,506 

MBS

  814,969   843,714   306,551   315,884 

Total

 $3,575,297  $3,708,370  $638,297  $656,390 

 

  

At December 31, 2019

 
  

Debt Securities Available

  

Debt Securities Held

 
  

for Sale

  

to Maturity

 
  

Amortized

  

Fair

  

Amortized

  

Fair

 
  

Cost

  

Value

  

Cost

  

Value

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Maturity in years:

             

1 year or less

 $294,698  $295,255  $70,378  $70,602 

Over 1 to 5 years

  1,104,775   1,122,391   161,911   165,126 

Over 5 to 10 years

  670,595   683,277   149,492   153,724 

Over 10 years

  33,489   34,465   -   - 

Subtotal

  2,103,557   2,135,388   381,781   389,452 

MBS

  938,303   943,458   356,291   354,844 

Total

 $3,041,860  $3,078,846  $738,072  $744,296 

 

Expected maturities of mortgage-related securities can differ from contractual maturities because borrowers have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. In addition, such factors as prepayments and interest rates may affect the yield on the carrying value of mortgage-related securities. At June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company had no high-risk collateralized mortgage obligations as defined by regulatory guidelines.

 

An analysis of the gross unrealized losses of the debt securities available for sale portfolio follows:

 

  

Debt Securities Available for Sale

 
  

At June 30, 2020

 
  

No. of

  

Less than 12 months

  

No. of

  

12 months or longer

  

No. of

  

Total

 
  

Investment

      

Unrealized

  

Investment

      

Unrealized

  

Investment

      

Unrealized

 
  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

 
  

($ in thousands)

 

Agency residential MBS

  -  $-  $-   2  $337  $(1)  2  $337  $(1)

Agency commercial MBS

  1   3,629   (9)  -   -   -   1   3,629   (9)

Securities of U.S.
Government entities

  1   171   -   -   -   -   1   171   - 

Obligations of states
and political
subdivisions

  -   -   -   2   2,169   (38)  2   2,169   (38)

Corporate securities

  5   44,582   (749)  4   20,409   (361)  9   64,991   (1,110)

Commercial paper

  6   149,670   (205)  -   -   -   6   149,670   (205)

Collateralized Loan
Obligations

  3   28,812   (52)  -   -   -   3   28,812   (52)

Total

  16  $226,864  $(1,015)  8  $22,915  $(400)  24  $249,779  $(1,415)

 

 

 

- 15-

 

An analysis of gross unrecognized losses of the debt securities held to maturity portfolio follows:

 

  

Debt Securities Held to Maturity

 
  

At June 30, 2020

 
  

No. of

  

Less than 12 months

  

No. of

  

12 months or longer

  

No. of

  

Total

 
  

Investment

      

Unrecognized

  

Investment

      

Unrecognized

  

Investment

      

Unrecognized

 
  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

 
  

($ in thousands)

 

Agency residential MBS

  3  $179  $-   4  $1,883  $(45)  7  $2,062  $(45)

Non-agency residential
MBS

  1   507   -   -   -   -   1   507   - 

Total

  4  $686  $-   4  $1,883  $(45)  8  $2,569  $(45)

 

Based upon the most recent evaluation, the unrealized losses on the Company’s debt securities available for sale were most likely caused by market conditions for these types of investments, particularly changes in risk-free interest rates and/or market bid-ask spreads. The Company does not intend to sell any debt securities available for sale and has concluded that it is more likely than not that it will not be required to sell the debt securities prior to recovery of the amortized cost basis. Therefore, the Company does not consider these debt securities to have credit related loss as of June 30, 2020.

 

The fair values of debt securities available for sale could decline in the future if the general economy deteriorates inflation increases, credit ratings decline, the issuer’s financial condition deteriorates, or the liquidity for debt securities declines. As a result, significant credit loss on debt securities available for sale may occur in the future.

 

As of June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company had debt securities pledged to secure public deposits and short-term borrowed funds of $868,665 thousand and $760,365 thousand, respectively.

 

An analysis of the gross unrealized losses of the debt securities available for sale portfolio follows:

 

  

Debt Securities Available for Sale

 
  

At December 31, 2019

 
  

No. of

  

Less than 12 months

  

No. of

  

12 months or longer

  

No. of

  

Total

 
  

Investment

      

Unrealized

  

Investment

      

Unrealized

  

Investment

      

Unrealized

 
  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

 
  

($ in thousands)

 

Securities of U.S.
Government
sponsored entities

  1  $9,951  $(49)  3  $45,877  $(49)  4  $55,828  $(98)

Agency residential MBS

  6   11,674   (100)  47   347,384   (5,738)  53   359,058   (5,838)

Agency commercial MBS

  1   3,708   (3)  -   -   -   1   3,708   (3)

Securities of U.S.
Government entities

  -   -   -   2   544   (9)  2   544   (9)

Obligations of states
and political
subdivisions

  -   -   -   7   4,163   (44)  7   4,163   (44)

Corporate securities

  8   71,577   (162)  11   64,380   (717)  19   135,957   (879)

Total

  16  $96,910  $(314)  70  $462,348  $(6,557)  86  $559,258  $(6,871)

 

 

 

An analysis of gross unrecognized losses of the debt securities held to maturity portfolio follows:

 

  

Debt Securities Held to Maturity

 
  

At December 31, 2019

 
  

No. of

  

Less than 12 months

  

No. of

  

12 months or longer

  

No. of

  

Total

 
  

Investment

      

Unrecognized

  

Investment

      

Unrecognized

  

Investment

      

Unrecognized

 
  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

  

Positions

  

Fair Value

  

Losses

 
  

($ in thousands)

 

Agency residential MBS

  6  $12,098  $(87)  54  $277,203  $(2,148)  60  $289,301  $(2,235)

Obligations of states
and political
subdivisions

  -   -   -   1   251   (1)  1   251   (1)

Total

  6  $12,098  $(87)  55  $277,454  $(2,149)  61  $289,552  $(2,236)

 

 

 

- 16-

 

The Company evaluates debt securities on a quarterly basis including changes in security ratings issued by rating agencies, changes in the financial condition of the issuer, and, for mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, delinquency and loss information with respect to the underlying collateral, changes in the levels of subordination for the Company’s particular position within the repayment structure and remaining credit enhancement as compared to expected credit losses of the security. Substantially all of these securities continue to be investment grade rated by a major rating agency. One corporate bond with an amortized cost of $15.0 million and a fair value of $14.7 million at June 30, 2020, is rated below investment grade. The $14.7 million corporate bond was issued by a pharmaceutical company which develops, manufactures and markets generic and branded human pharmaceuticals, as well as active pharmaceutical ingredients, to customers worldwide. The bond matures in 2021, and the issuing Company has refinanced much of its debt obligations beyond the maturity date. In addition to monitoring credit rating agency evaluations, Management performs its own evaluations regarding the credit worthiness of the issuer or the securitized assets underlying asset backed securities.

 

The following table presents the activity in the allowance for credit losses for debt securities held to maturity:

 

  

For

 
  

the Six Months

 
  

Ended June 30,

 
  

2020

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Allowance for credit losses:

    

Beginning balance, prior to adoption of ASU 2016-13

 $- 

Impact of adopting ASU 2016-13

  16 

Provision

  - 

Chargeoffs

  - 

Recoveries

  - 

Total ending balance

 $16 

 

Agency mortgage-backed securities were assigned no credit loss allowance due to the perceived backing of government sponsored entities. Municipal securities were evaluated for risk of default based on credit rating and remaining term to maturity using Moody’s risk of default factors; Moody’s loss upon default factors were applied to the assumed defaulted principal amounts to estimate the amount for credit loss allowance.

 

The following table summarizes the amortized cost of debt securities held to maturity at June 30, 2020, aggregated by credit rating:

 

  

Credit Risk Profile by Credit Rating

 
  

At June 30, 2020

 
  

(In thousands)

 
  

AAA/AA/A

  

BBB

  

BB/B

  

Total

 
                 

Agency residential MBS

 $304,439  $-  $-  $304,439 

Non-agency residential MBS

  1,082   -   1,030   2,112 

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

  331,645   101   -   331,746 

Total

 $637,166  $101  $1,030  $638,297 

 

There were no debt securities held to maturity on nonaccrual status or past due 30 days or more as of June 30, 2020.

 

The following table provides information about the amount of interest income earned on investment securities which is fully taxable and which is exempt from federal income tax:

 

  

For the Three Months

  

For the Six Months

 
  

Ended June 30,

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

2020

  

2019

 
  

(In thousands)

 
                 

Taxable

 $22,920  $18,773  $44,884  $37,406 

Tax-exempt from regular federal income tax

  3,228   4,073   6,590   8,388 

Total interest income from investment securities

 $26,148  $22,846  $51,474  $45,794 

 

- 17-

 
 

Note 4: Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses/Credit Losses and Other Real Estate Owned

 

A summary of the major categories of loans outstanding is shown in the following tables at the dates indicated.

 

     

At June 30,

  

At December 31,

 
     

2020

  

2019

 
     

(In thousands)

 

Commercial:

          

Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") loans

 $240,815  $- 

Other

  198,978   222,085 

Total commercial

  439,793   222,085 

Commercial Real Estate

  572,421   578,758 

Construction

  151   1,618 

Residential Real Estate

  27,147   32,748 

Consumer Installment & Other

  276,847   291,455 

Total

 $1,316,359  $1,126,664 

 

The following summarizes activity in the allowance for loan losses/credit losses:

 

  

Allowance for Credit Losses

 
  

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2020

 
                  

Consumer

     
      

Commercial

      

Residential

  

Installment

     
  

Commercial

  

Real Estate

  

Construction

  

Real Estate

  

and Other

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Allowance for credit losses:

                        

Balance at beginning of period

 $8,336  $4,753  $107  $70  $11,538  $24,804 

(Reversal) provision

  (357)  (142)  (100)  (13)  612   - 

Chargeoffs

  -   -   -   -   (804)  (804)

Recoveries

  93   12   -   -   424   529 

Total allowance for credit losses

 $8,072  $4,623  $7  $57  $11,770  $24,529 

 

 

 

  

Allowance for Credit Losses

 
  

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2020

 
                  

Consumer

         
      

Commercial

      

Residential

  

Installment

         
  

Commercial

  

Real Estate

  

Construction

  

Real Estate

  

and Other

  

Unallocated

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Allowance for credit losses:

                            

Balance at beginning of period, prior to adoption of ASU 2016-13

 $4,959  $4,064  $109  $206  $6,445  $3,701  $19,484 

Impact of adopting ASU 2016-13

  3,385   618   (31)  (132)  1,878   (3,701)  2,017 

Adjusted beginning balance

  8,344   4,682   78   74   8,323   -   21,501 

(Reversal) provision

  (330)  (84)  (71)  (17)  4,802   -   4,300 

Chargeoffs

  (178)  -   -   -   (2,199)  -   (2,377)

Recoveries

  236   25   -   -   844   -   1,105 

Total allowance for credit losses

 $8,072  $4,623  $7  $57  $11,770  $-  $24,529 

 

The significant increase in the allowance for credit losses for consumer installment and other loans was due to expected credit losses associated with forecasted unemployment impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The growth in commercial loans was due to originations of PPP loans which are 100% guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (“SBA”). Loan proceeds used for eligible payroll and certain other operating costs are to be forgiven with repayment of loan principal and accrued interest made by the SBA. Management does not expect credit losses on PPP loans.

 

  

Allowance for Loan Losses

 
  

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2019

 
                  

Consumer

         
      

Commercial

      

Residential

  

Installment

         
  

Commercial

  

Real Estate

  

Construction

  

Real Estate

  

and Other

  

Unallocated

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Allowance for loan losses:

                         

Balance at beginning of period

 $6,506  $3,927  $853  $261  $5,481  $3,449  $20,477 

(Reversal) provision

  (1,346)  116   264   (23)  386   603   - 

Chargeoffs

  (48)  -   -   -   (925)  -   (973)

Recoveries

  123   14   -   -   476   -   613 

Total allowance for loan losses

 $5,235  $4,057  $1,117  $238  $5,418  $4,052  $20,117 

 

- 18-

 

 

 

  

Allowance for Loan Losses

 
  

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2019

 
                  

Consumer

         
      

Commercial

      

Residential

  

Installment

         
  

Commercial

  

Real Estate

  

Construction

  

Real Estate

  

and Other

  

Unallocated

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Allowance for loan losses:

                         

Balance at beginning of period

 $6,311  $3,884  $1,465  $869  $5,645  $3,177  $21,351 

(Reversal) provision

  (1,221)  147   (348)  (631)  1,178   875   - 

Chargeoffs

  (71)  -   -   -   (2,293)  -   (2,364)

Recoveries

  216   26   -   -   888   -   1,130 

Total allowance for loan losses

 $5,235  $4,057  $1,117  $238  $5,418  $4,052  $20,117 

 

The allowance for loan losses and recorded investment in loans evaluated for impairment were as follows:

 

  

Allowance for Loan Losses and Recorded Investment in Loans Evaluated for Impairment

 
  

At December 31, 2019

 
  

Commercial

  

Commercial Real Estate

  

Construction

  

Residential Real Estate

  

Consumer Installment and Other

  

Unallocated

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Allowance for loan losses:

                            

Individually evaluated for impairment

 $2,413  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $2,413 

Collectively evaluated for impairment

  2,546   4,064   109   206   6,445   3,701   17,071 

Total

 $4,959  $4,064  $109  $206  $6,445  $3,701  $19,484 

Carrying value of loans:

                            

Individually evaluated for impairment

 $8,182  $7,409  $-  $190  $43  $-  $15,824 

Collectively evaluated for impairment

  213,903   571,349   1,618   32,558   291,412   -   1,110,840 

Total

 $222,085  $578,758  $1,618  $32,748  $291,455  $-  $1,126,664 

 

The Company’s customers are small businesses, professionals and consumers. Given the scale of these borrowers, corporate credit rating agencies do not evaluate the borrowers’ financial condition. The Company’s subsidiary, Westamerica Bank (the “Bank”) maintains a Loan Review Department which reports directly to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. The Loan Review Department performs independent evaluations of loans and validates management assigned credit risk grades on evaluated loans using grading standards employed by bank regulatory agencies. Loans judged to carry lower-risk attributes are assigned a “pass” grade, with a minimal likelihood of loss. Loans judged to carry higher-risk attributes are referred to as “classified loans,” and are further disaggregated, with increasing expectations for loss recognition, as “substandard,” “doubtful,” and “loss.” Loan Review Department performs continuous evaluations throughout the year. If the Bank becomes aware of deterioration in a borrower’s performance or financial condition between Loan Review Department examinations, assigned risk grades are re-evaluated promptly. Credit risk grades assigned by management and validated by the Loan Review Department are subject to review by the Bank’s regulatory authorities during regulatory examinations.

 

The following summarizes the credit risk profile by internally assigned grade:

 

  

Credit Risk Profile by Internally Assigned Grade

 
  

At June 30, 2020

 
  

Commercial

  

Commercial Real Estate

  

Construction

  

Residential Real Estate

  

Consumer Installment and Other

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Grade:

                        

Pass

 $431,326  $561,272  $151  $25,750  $274,325  $1,292,824 

Substandard

  8,467   11,149   -   1,397   1,712   22,725 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   401   401 

Loss

  -   -   -   -   409   409 

Total

 $439,793  $572,421  $151  $27,147  $276,847  $1,316,359 

 

  

Credit Risk Profile by Internally Assigned Grade

 
  

At December 31, 2019

 
  

Commercial

  

Commercial Real Estate

  

Construction

  

Residential Real Estate

  

Consumer Installment and Other

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Grade:

                        

Pass

 $213,542  $567,525  $1,618  $31,055  $289,424  $1,103,164 

Substandard

  8,543   11,233   -   1,693   1,329   22,798 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   308   308 

Loss

  -   -   -   -   394   394 

Total

 $222,085  $578,758  $1,618  $32,748  $291,455  $1,126,664 

 

 

- 19-

 

The following tables summarize loans by delinquency and nonaccrual status:

 

  

Summary of Loans by Delinquency and Nonaccrual Status

 
  

At June 30, 2020

 
  

Current and Accruing

  

30-59 Days Past Due and Accruing

  

60-89 Days Past Due and Accruing

  

Past Due 90 Days or More and Accruing

  

Nonaccrual

  

Total Loans

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Commercial

 $439,449  $220  $9  $-  $115  $439,793 

Commercial real estate

  564,554   3,675   357   -   3,835   572,421 

Construction

  151   -   -   -   -   151 

Residential real estate

  26,204   521   422   -   -   27,147 

Consumer installment and other

  274,349   1,480   445   290   283   276,847 

Total

 $1,304,707  $5,896  $1,233  $290  $4,233  $1,316,359 

 

  

Summary of Loans by Delinquency and Nonaccrual Status

 
  

At December 31, 2019

 
  

Current and Accruing

  

30-59 Days Past Due and Accruing

  

60-89 Days Past Due and Accruing

  

Past Due 90 Days or More and Accruing

  

Nonaccrual

  

Total Loans

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Commercial

 $221,199  $531  $158  $-  $197  $222,085 

Commercial real estate

  573,809   432   421   -   4,096   578,758 

Construction

  1,618   -   -   -   -   1,618 

Residential real estate

  31,934   274   540   -   -   32,748 

Consumer installment and other

  286,391   2,960   1,517   440   147   291,455 

Total

 $1,114,951  $4,197  $2,636  $440  $4,440  $1,126,664 

 

There was no allowance for credit losses allocated to loans on nonaccrual status as of June 30, 2020. There were no commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers whose loans were on nonaccrual status at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019.

 

The following summarizes impaired loans as of December 31, 2019:

 

  

Impaired Loans

 
  

At December 31,

 
  

2019

 
      

Unpaid

     
  

Recorded

  

Principal

  

Related

 
  

Investment

  

Balance

  

Allowance

 
             

With no related allowance recorded:

            

Commercial

 $21  $21  $- 

Commercial real estate

  7,408   8,856   - 

Residential real estate

  190   220   - 

Consumer installment and other

  43   43   - 

Total with no related allowance recorded

  7,662   9,140   - 
             

With an allowance recorded:

            

Commercial

  8,160   8,160   2,413 

Total with an allowance recorded

  8,160   8,160   2,413 

Total

 $15,822  $17,300  $2,413 

 

Impaired loans at December 31, 2019, included $6,713 thousand of restructured loans, $3,670 thousand of which were on nonaccrual status.

 

- 20-

 
  

Impaired Loans

 
  

For the Three Months

  

For the Six Months

 
  

Ended June 30, 2019

 
  

Average

  

Recognized

  

Average

  

Recognized

 
  

Recorded

  

Interest

  

Recorded

  

Interest

 
  

Investment

  

Income

  

Investment

  

Income

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Commercial

 $9,662  $165  $9,755  $332 

Commercial real estate

  6,539   126   6,716   273 

Residential real estate

  196   3   197   6 

Consumer installment and other

  77   -   105   - 

Total

 $16,474  $294  $16,773  $611 

 

The following tables provide information on troubled debt restructurings (TDRs):

 

  

Troubled Debt Restructurings

 
  

At June 30, 2020

 
              

Period-End

 
              

Individual

 
  

Number of

  

Pre-Modification

  

Period-End

  

Impairment

 
  

Contracts

  

Carrying Value

  

Carrying Value

  

Allowance

 
  

($ in thousands)

 

Commercial real estate

  6  $8,367  $6,139  $- 

Residential real estate

  1   241   185   - 

Total

  7  $8,608  $6,324  $- 

 

  

Troubled Debt Restructurings

 
  

At December 31, 2019

 
              

Period-End

 
              

Individual

 
  

Number of

  

Pre-Modification

  

Period-End

  

Impairment

 
  

Contracts

  

Carrying Value

  

Carrying Value

  

Allowance

 
  

($ in thousands)

 

Commercial

  2  $278  $32  $11 

Commercial real estate

  6   8,367   6,492   - 

Residential real estate

  1   241   189   - 

Total

  9  $8,886  $6,713  $11 

 

During the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, the Company did not modify any loans that were considered TDRs. Section 4013 of the CARES Act allowed certain loan modifications for borrowers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to be excluded from TDR accounting. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, the Company modified loans under Section 4013 of the CARES Act, generally granting 90 day deferrals of principal and interest payments. Automobile and other consumer loan deferrals were $29 million and $5 million, respectively. Commercial real estate loans with deferred payments totaled $66 million, primarily for hospitality and retail properties. Commercial loans with deferred payments totaled $3 million. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, the Company did not modify any loans that were considered TDRs. There were no chargeoffs related to TDRs made during the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019, no troubled debt restructured loans defaulted within 12 months of the modification date. A TDR is considered to be in default when payments are ninety days or more past due.

 

TDRs of $6,324 thousand included loans of $3,420 thousand on nonaccrual status at June 30, 2020. No allowance for credit losses was allocated to one commercial real estate loan secured by real property with a balance of $3,240 thousand, which was considered collateral-dependent at June 30, 2020. At June 30, 2020, $281 thousand of indirect consumer installment loans secured by personal property were past due 90 days or more and considered collateral-dependent and two residential real estate loans totaling $283 thousand secured by real property were considered collateral-dependent. There were no other collateral-dependent loans at June 30, 2020. A loan is considered collateral-dependent when the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral.

 

- 21-

 

Based on the most recent analysis performed, the risk category of loans by class of loans is as follows:

 

  

At June 30, 2020

 
                                  

Revolving

     
                                  

Loans

     
  

Term Loans Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year

  

Total

  

Amortized

     
  

Prior

  

2015

  

2016

  

2017

  

2018

  

2019

  

2020

  

Term Loans

  

Cost Basis

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Commercial loans by grade

                                 

Pass

 $22,973  $5,962  $27,294  $12,096  $22,572  $45,375  $259,214  $395,486  $35,840  $431,326 

Substandard

  80   -   2   -   -   -   7,932   8,014   453   8,467 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Loss

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total

 $23,053  $5,962  $27,296  $12,096  $22,572  $45,375  $267,146  $403,500  $36,293  $439,793 

 

  

At June 30, 2020

 
                                  

Revolving

     
                                  

Loans

     
  

Term Loans Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year

  

Total

  

Amortized

     
  

Prior

  

2015

  

2016

  

2017

  

2018

  

2019

  

2020

  

Term Loans

  

Cost Basis

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Commercial real estate loans by grade

                                     

Pass

 $98,947  $51,492  $50,154  $104,502  $95,509  $95,999  $64,669  $561,272  $-  $561,272 

Substandard

  3,136   1,321   5,735   109   -   -   848   11,149   -   11,149 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -      -   -   - 

Loss

  -   -   -   -   -   -      -   -   - 

Total

 $102,083  $52,813  $55,889  $104,611  $95,509  $95,999  $65,517  $572,421  $-  $572,421 

 

  

At June 30, 2020

 
                                  

Revolving

     
                                  

Loans

     
  

Term Loans Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year

  

Total

  

Amortized

     
  

Prior

  

2015

  

2016

  

2017

  

2018

  

2019

  

2020

  

Term Loans

  

Cost Basis

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Construction loans by grade

                                     

Pass

 $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $151  $151 

Substandard

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Loss

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total

 $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $151  $151 

 

  

At June 30, 2020

 
                                  

Revolving

     
                                  

Loans

     
  

Term Loans Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year

  

Total

  

Amortized

     
  

Prior

  

2015

  

2016

  

2017

  

2018

  

2019

  

2020

  

Term Loans

  

Cost Basis

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Residential Real Estate loans by grade

                                     

Pass

 $25,750  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $25,750  $-  $25,750 

Substandard

  1,397   -   -   -   -   -   -   1,397   -   1,397 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Loss

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total

 $27,147  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $27,147  $-  $27,147 

 

The Company considers the delinquency and nonaccrual status of the consumer loan portfolio and its impact on the allowance for credit losses. The following table presents the amortized cost in consumer installment and other loans based on delinquency and nonaccrual status:

 

  

At June 30, 2020

 
                                  

Revolving

     
                                  

Loans

     
  

Term Loans Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year

  

Total

  

Amortized

     
  

Prior

  

2015

  

2016

  

2017

  

2018

  

2019

  

2020

  

Term Loans

  

Cost Basis

  

Total

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Consumer installment and other loans by delinquency and nonaccrual status

                             

Current

 $5,699  $7,230  $20,962  $24,868  $51,487  $67,430  $64,259  $241,935  $32,414  $274,349 

30-59 days past due

  31   61   102   206   200   316   248   1,164   316   1,480 

60-89 days past due

  8   23   30   32   59   153   20   325   120   445 

Past due 90 days or more

  6   35   29   50   79   85   3   287   3   290 

Nonaccrual

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   283   283 

Total

 $5,744  $7,349  $21,123  $25,156  $51,825  $67,984  $64,530  $243,711  $33,136  $276,847 

 

There were no loans held for sale at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019.

 

At June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company held total other real estate owned (OREO) of $43 thousand. There was no reserve applied against OREO at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019. There were no foreclosed residential real estate properties at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019. The amount of consumer mortgage loans outstanding secured by residential real estate properties for which formal foreclosure proceedings were in process was $283 thousand at June 30, 2020 and $124 thousand at December 31, 2019.

 

- 22-

 
 

Note 5: Concentration of Credit Risk

 

Under the California Financial Code, credit extended to any one person owing to a commercial bank at any one time shall not exceed the following limitations: (a) unsecured loans shall not exceed 15 percent of the sum of the shareholders' equity, allowance for credit losses, capital notes, and debentures of the bank, or (b) secured and unsecured loans in all shall not exceed 25 percent of the sum of the shareholders' equity, allowance for credit losses, capital notes, and debentures of the bank. At June 30, 2020, the Bank did not have credit extended to any one entity exceeding these limits. At June 30, 2020, the Bank had 31 lending relationships each with aggregate amounts of $5 million or more. The Company has significant credit arrangements that are secured by real estate collateral. In addition to real estate loans outstanding as disclosed in Note 4, the Company had loan commitments related to real estate loans of $40,267 thousand and $43,129 thousand at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. The Company requires collateral on all real estate loans with loan-to-value ratios at origination generally no greater than 75% on commercial real estate loans and no greater than 80% on residential real estate loans. At June 30, 2020, the Bank held corporate bonds in 100 issuing entities and commercial paper in 12 issuing entities that exceeded $5 million for each issuer.

 

 

Note 6: Other Assets and Other Liabilities

 

Other assets consisted of the following:

 

  

At June 30,

  

At December 31,

 
  

2020

  

2019

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Cost method equity investments:

        

Federal Reserve Bank stock (1)

 $14,069  $14,069 

Other investments

  158   158 

Total cost method equity investments

  14,227   14,227 

Life insurance cash surrender value

  59,182   57,810 

Net deferred tax asset

  -   11,085 

Right-of-use asset

  15,757   17,136 

Limited partnership investments

  19,535   20,773 

Interest receivable

  32,322   28,797 

Prepaid assets

  4,140   3,737 

Other assets

  22,403   10,767 

Total other assets

 $167,566  $164,332 

 

(1) A bank applying for membership in the Federal Reserve System is required to subscribe to stock in the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) in its district in a sum equal to six percent of the bank’s paid-up capital stock and surplus. One-half of the amount of the bank's subscription shall be paid to the FRB and the remaining half will be subject to call when deemed necessary by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.

 

The Company owns 211 thousand shares of Visa Inc. class B common stock which have transfer restrictions; the carrying value is $-0- thousand. On September 30, 2019, Visa Inc. announced a revised conversion rate applicable to its class B common stock resulting from its September 27, 2019 deposit of funds into its litigation escrow account. This funding reduced the conversion rate of class B common stock into class A common stock, which is unrestricted and trades actively on the New York Stock Exchange, from 1.6298 to 1.6228 per share, effective as of September 27, 2019. Visa Inc. class A common stock had a closing price of $193.17 per share on June 30, 2020, the last day of stock market trading for the second quarter 2020. The ultimate value of the Company’s Visa Inc. class B shares is subject to the extent of Visa Inc.’s future litigation escrow fundings, the resulting conversion rate to class A common stock, and current and future trading restrictions on the class B common stock.

 

The Company invests in flow-through limited liability entities that manage or invest in affordable housing projects that qualify for low-income housing tax credits. At June 30, 2020, this investment totaled $19,535 thousand and $15,054 thousand of this amount represents outstanding equity capital commitments that are included in other liabilities. At December 31, 2019, this investment totaled $20,773 thousand and $16,231 thousand of this amount represents outstanding equity capital commitments that are included in other liabilities. At June 30, 2020, the $15,054 thousand of outstanding equity capital commitments are expected to be paid as follows, $3,831 thousand in the remainder of 2020, $4,071 thousand in 2021, $5,983 thousand in 2022, $295 thousand in 2023, $24 thousand in 2024, $302 thousand in 2025, $74 thousand in 2026 and $474 thousand in 2027 or thereafter.

 

- 23-

 

The amounts recognized in net income for these investments include:

 

  

For the Three Months Ended

  

For the Six Months Ended

 
  

June 30,

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

2020

  

2019

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Investment loss included in pre-tax income

 $600  $600  $1,200  $1,200 

Tax credits recognized in provision for income taxes

  225   225   450   450 

 

Other liabilities consisted of the following:

 

  

At June 30,

  

At December 31,

 
  

2020

  

2019

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Net deferred tax liability

 $17,821  $- 

Operating lease liability

  15,757   17,136 

Securities purchases pending settlement

  13,632   - 

Other liabilities

  54,021   27,453 

Total other liabilities

 $101,231  $44,589 

 

 

The deferred tax liability at June 30, 2020 of $17,821 thousand, net of deferred tax benefits of $21,789 thousand, included deferred tax obligations of $39,341 thousand related to unrealized gains of $133,073 thousand on available for sale debt securities. The net deferred tax asset at December 31, 2019 of $11,085 thousand was net of deferred tax obligations of $10,934 thousand related to available for sale debt securities unrealized gains.

 

The Company has entered into leases for most branch locations and certain other offices that were classified as operating leases primarily with original terms of five years. Certain lease arrangements contain extension options, which can be exercised at the Company’s option, for one or more additional five year terms. Unexercised extension options are not considered reasonably certain of exercise and have not been included in the lease term used to determine the lease liability or right-of-use asset. The Company did not have any finance leases as of June 30, 2020.

 

As of June 30, 2020, the Company recorded a lease liability of $15,757 thousand and a right-of-use asset of $15,757 thousand, respectively. The weighted average remaining life of operating leases and weighted average discount rate used to determine operating lease liabilities were 3.8 years and 2.80%, respectively, at June 30, 2020. The Company did not have any material lease incentives, unamortized initial direct costs, prepaid lease expense, or accrued lease expense as of June 30, 2020.

 

Total lease costs during the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, of $1,657 thousand and $3,317 thousand, respectively, were recorded within occupancy and equipment expense. The Company did not have any material short-term or variable leases costs or sublease income during the six months ended June 30, 2020.

 

 

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- 24-

 

 

The following table summarizes the remaining lease payments of operating lease liabilities:

 

  

Minimum
future lease
payments

 
  

At June 30,

 
  

2020

 
  

(In thousands)

 

The remaining six months of 2020

 $3,046 

2021

  4,645 

2022

  3,703 

2023

  2,980 

2024

  1,565 

Thereafter

  708 

Total minimum lease payments

  16,647 

Less: discount

  (890)

Present value of lease liability

 $15,757 

 

 

Note 7: Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Assets

 

The Company has recorded goodwill and other identifiable intangibles associated with purchase business combinations. Goodwill is not amortized, but is evaluated for impairment at least annually. The Company did not recognize impairment during the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 and year ended December 31, 2019. Identifiable intangibles are amortized to their estimated residual values over their expected useful lives. Such lives and residual values are also periodically reassessed to determine if any amortization period adjustments are indicated. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 and year ended December 31, 2019 no such adjustments were recorded.

 

The carrying values of goodwill were:

 

  

At June 30, 2020

  

At December 31, 2019

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Goodwill

 $121,673  $121,673 

 

The gross carrying amount of identifiable intangible assets and accumulated amortization was:

 

    

At June 30, 2020

  

At December 31, 2019

 
    

Gross

      

Gross

     
    

Carrying

  

Accumulated

  

Carrying

  

Accumulated

 
    

Amount

  

Amortization

  

Amount

  

Amortization

 
    

(In thousands)

 

Core deposit intangibles

 $56,808  $(55,563) $56,808  $(55,417)

 

As of June 30, 2020, the current period and estimated future amortization expense for identifiable intangible assets was:

 

  

Total

 
  

Core

 
  

Deposit

 
  

Intangibles

 
  

(In thousands)

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2020 (actual)

 $146 

Estimate for the remainder of year ending December 31, 2020

  141 

Estimate for year ending December 31, 2021

  269 

   2022

  252 

   2023

  236 

   2024

  222 

   2025

  125 

 

- 25-

 
 

Note 8: Deposits and Borrowed Funds

 

The following table provides additional detail regarding deposits.

 

  

Deposits

 
  

At June 30,

  

At December 31,

 
  

2020

  

2019

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Noninterest-bearing

 $2,702,885  $2,240,112 

Interest-bearing:

        

Transaction

  997,593   931,888 

Savings

  1,605,169   1,471,284 

Time deposits less than $100 thousand

  84,717   88,355 

Time deposits $100 thousand through $250 thousand

  52,084   54,874 

Time deposits more than $250 thousand

  25,964   26,108 

Total deposits

 $5,468,412  $4,812,621 

 

 

Demand deposit overdrafts of $1,517 thousand and $1,055 thousand were included as loan balances at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Interest expense for aggregate time deposits with individual account balances in excess of $100 thousand was $79 thousand and $158 thousand for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, respectively, and $82 thousand and $164 thousand for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, respectively.

 

The following table provides additional detail regarding short-term borrowed funds.

 

  

Repurchase Agreements (Sweep)
Accounted for as Secured Borrowings

 
  

Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements

 
  

Overnight and Continuous

 
  

At June 30,

  

At December 31,

 
  

2020

  

2019

 

Repurchase agreements:

 

(In thousands)

 

Collateral securing borrowings:

        

Securities of U.S. Government sponsored entities

 $-  $65,833 

Agency residential MBS

  86,143   52,485 

Corporate securities

  182,308   146,253 

Total collateral carrying value

 $268,451  $264,571 

Total short-term borrowed funds

 $86,170  $30,928 

 

 

Note 9: Fair Value Measurements

 

The Company uses fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. Debt securities available for sale are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Additionally, from time to time, the Company may be required to record at fair value other assets on a nonrecurring basis, such as other real estate owned, loans individually evaluated for credit loss, certain loans held for investment, debt securities held to maturity, and other assets. These nonrecurring fair value adjustments typically involve the lower-of-cost or fair-value accounting of individual assets.

 

In accordance with the Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure topic of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification, the Company bases its fair values on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal market or most advantageous market for an asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date under current market conditions. A fair value measurement reflects all of the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about the risk inherent in a particular valuation technique, the effect of a restriction on the sale or use of an asset, and the risk of nonperformance.

 

The Company groups its assets and liabilities measured at fair value into a three-level hierarchy, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value. When the valuation assumptions used to measure the fair value of the asset or liability are categorized within different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the asset or liability is categorized in its entirety within the lowest level of the hierarchy. These levels are:

 

- 26-

 

Level 1 – Valuation is based upon quoted prices for identical instruments traded in active exchange markets, such as the New York Stock Exchange. Level 1 includes U.S. Treasury and equity securities, which are traded by dealers or brokers in active markets. Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets or liabilities.

 

Level 2 – Valuation is based upon quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market. Level 2 includes mutual funds, federal agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, corporate securities, commercial paper, collateralized loan obligations, municipal bonds and securities of U.S government entities.

 

Level 3 – Valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect the Company’s estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Valuation techniques include use of option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques.

 

The Company relies on independent vendor pricing services to measure fair value for equity securities, debt securities available for sale and debt securities held to maturity. The Company employs three pricing services. To validate the pricing of these vendors, the Company compares vendors’ pricing for each of the securities for consistency; significant pricing differences, if any, are evaluated using all available independent quotes with the quote most closely reflecting the market generally used as the fair value estimate. In addition, the Company evaluates debt securities for credit loss on a quarterly basis. As with any valuation technique used to estimate fair value, changes in underlying assumptions used could significantly affect the results of current and future values. Accordingly, these fair value estimates may not be realized in an actual sale of the securities.

 

The Company regularly reviews the valuation techniques and assumptions used by its vendors and determines which valuation techniques are utilized based on observable market inputs for the type of securities being measured. The Company uses the information to determine the placement in the fair value hierarchy as level 1, 2 or 3.

 

Assets Recorded at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

 

The tables below present assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis on the dates indicated.

 

  

At June 30, 2020

 
  

Fair Value

  

Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)

  

Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

  

Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3) (1)

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities available for sale

                

Agency residential mortgage-backed securities (MBS)

 $840,085  $-  $840,085  $- 

Agency commercial MBS

  3,629   -   3,629   - 

Securities of U.S. Government entities

  171   -   171   - 

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

  152,154   -   152,154   - 

Corporate securities

  2,269,411   -   2,269,411   - 

Commercial paper

  299,582      299,582    

Collateralized loan obligations (CLO)

  143,338   -   143,338   - 

Total debt securities available for sale

 $3,708,370  $-  $3,708,370  $- 

 

(1) There were no transfers in to or out of level 3 during the six months ended June 30, 2020.

 

 

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- 27-

 
  

At December 31, 2019

 
  

Fair Value

  

Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)

  

Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

  

Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3) (1)

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Debt securities available for sale

                

U.S. Treasury securities

 $20,000  $20,000  $-  $- 

Securities of U.S. Government sponsored entities

  111,167   -   111,167   - 

Agency residential MBS

  939,750   -   939,750   - 

Agency commercial MBS

  3,708   -   3,708   - 

Securities of U.S. Government entities

  544   -   544   - 

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

  163,139   -   163,139   - 

Corporate securities

  1,833,783   -   1,833,783   - 

CLO

  6,755   -   6,755   - 

Total debt securities available for sale

 $3,078,846  $20,000  $3,058,846  $- 

 

(1) There were no transfers in to or out of level 3 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.

 

Assets Recorded at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

 

The Company may be required, from time to time, to measure certain assets at fair value on a nonrecurring basis in accordance with GAAP. These adjustments to fair value usually result from application of lower of cost or fair value accounting of individual assets. For assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis that were recorded in the balance sheet at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the following tables provide the level of valuation assumptions used to determine each adjustment and the carrying value of the related assets at period end.

 

                  

For the

 
                  

Three Months Ended

 
  

At June 30, 2020

  

March 31, 2020

 
  

Carrying Value

  

Level 1

  

Level 2

  

Level 3

  

Total Losses

 
  

(In thousands)

 

Other real estate owned

 $43  $-  $-  $43  $- 

Loans:

                    

Commercial

  5,401   -   -   5,401   - 

Commercial real estate

  3,773   -   -   3,773   - 

Residential real estate

  186   -   -   186   - 

Total assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis

 $9,403  $-  $-  $9,403  $- 

 

                     

For the

 
                     

Twelve Months Ended

 
     

At December 31, 2019

  

December 31, 2019

 
     

Carrying Value

  

Level 1

  

Level 2

  

Level 3

  

Total Losses

 
     

(In thousands)

 

Other real estate owned

 $43  $-  $-  $43  $- 

Impaired loans:

                      

Commercial

  5,747   -   -   5,747   - 

Commercial real estate

  4,091   -   -   4,091   - 

Residential real estate

  190   -   -   190   - 

Total assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis

 $10,071  $-  $-  $10,071  $- 

 

Level 3 – Valuation is based upon present value of expected future cash flows, independent market prices, estimated liquidation values of loan collateral or appraised value of the collateral as determined by third-party independent appraisers, less 10% for selling costs, generally. Level 3 includes other real estate owned that has been measured at fair value upon transfer to foreclosed assets and loans collateralized by real property and other business asset collateral individually evaluated for credit loss where a specific reserve has been established or a chargeoff has been recorded. Losses on other real estate owned represent losses recognized in earnings during the period subsequent to its initial classification as foreclosed assets. The unobservable inputs and qualitative information about the unobservable inputs are not presented as the inputs were not developed by the Company.

 

- 28-

 

Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The tables below are a summary of fair value estimates for financial instruments and the level of the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurements are categorized, excluding financial instruments recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. The values assigned do not necessarily represent amounts which ultimately may be realized for assets or paid to settle liabilities. In addition, these values do not give effect to adjustments to fair value which may occur when financial instruments are sold or settled in larger quantities. The carrying amounts in the following tables are recorded in the balance sheet under the indicated captions.

 

The Company has not included assets and liabilities that are not financial instruments, such as goodwill, long-term relationships with deposit, merchant processing and trust customers, other purchased intangibles, premises and equipment, deferred taxes and other assets and liabilities. The total estimated fair values do not represent, and should not be construed to represent, the underlying value of the Company.

 

  

At June 30, 2020

 
  

Carrying Amount

  

Estimated Fair Value

  

Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)

  

Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2 )

  

Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3 )

 

Financial Assets:

 

(In thousands)

 

Cash and due from banks

 $500,820  $500,820  $500,820  $-  $- 

Debt securities held to maturity

  638,281   656,374   -   656,374   - 

Loans

  1,291,830   1,362,955   -   -   1,362,955 
                     

Financial Liabilities:

                    

Deposits

 $5,468,412  $5,468,734  $-  $5,305,647  $163,087 

Short-term borrowed funds

  86,170   86,170   -   86,170   - 

 

  

At December 31, 2019

 
  

Carrying Amount

  

Estimated Fair Value

  

Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)

  

Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2 )

  

Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3 )

 

Financial Assets:

 

(In thousands)

 

Cash and due from banks

 $373,421  $373,421  $373,421  $-  $- 

Debt securities held to maturity

  738,072   744,296   -   744,296   - 

Loans

  1,107,180   1,152,949   -   -   1,152,949 
                     

Financial Liabilities:

                    

Deposits

 $4,812,621  $4,810,934  $-  $4,643,284  $167,650 

Short-term borrowed funds

  30,928   30,928   -   30,928   - 

 

The majority of the Company’s standby letters of credit and other commitments to extend credit carry current market interest rates if converted to loans. No premium or discount was ascribed to these commitments because virtually all funding would be at current market rates.

 

 

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- 29-

 
 

Note 10: Commitments and Contingent Liabilities

 

Loan commitments are agreements to lend to a customer provided there is no violation of any condition established in the agreement. Certain agreements provide the Company the right to cancel or reduce its obligations to lend to customers. The portions that are not cancellable unconditionally by the Company aggregated $40,267 thousand at June 30, 2020. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future funding requirements. Loan commitments are subject to the Company’s normal credit policies and collateral requirements. Unfunded loan commitments were $289,785 thousand at June 30, 2020 and $265,311 thousand at December 31, 2019. Standby letters of credit commit the Company to make payments on behalf of customers when certain specified future events occur. Standby letters of credit are primarily issued to support customers’ short-term financing requirements and must meet the Company’s normal credit policies and collateral requirements. Financial and performance standby letters of credit outstanding totaled $2,355 thousand at June 30, 2020 and $3,099 thousand at December 31, 2019. The Company had no commitments outstanding for commercial and similar letters of credit at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019. The Company had $580 thousand and $550 thousand in outstanding full recourse guarantees to a 3rd party credit card company at June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. The Company had a reserve for unfunded commitments of $53 thousand at June 30, 2020 and $2,160 thousand at December 31, 2019, included in other liabilities.

 

The Company determined that it will be obligated to provide refunds of revenue recognized in years prior to 2018 to some customers. The Company initially estimated the probable amount of these obligations to be $5,542 thousand and accrued a liability for such amount in 2017; based on additional information received in the second quarter 2019, the Company increased such liability to $5,843 thousand by recognizing an expense of $301 thousand.

 

Due to the nature of its business, the Company is subject to various threatened or filed legal cases. Based on the advice of legal counsel, the Company does not expect such cases will have a material, adverse effect on its financial position or results of operations.

 

 

Note 11: Earnings Per Common Share

 

The table below shows earnings per common share and diluted earnings per common share. Basic earnings per common share are computed by dividing net income by the average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share are computed by dividing net income by the average number of common shares outstanding during the period plus the impact of common stock equivalents.

 

  

For the Three Months

  

For the Six Months

 
  

Ended June 30,

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

2020

  

2019

 
  

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

Net income applicable to common equity (numerator)

 $19,562  $19,625  $36,524  $39,271 

Basic earnings per common share

             

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic (denominator)

  26,935   26,942   27,001   26,892 

Basic earnings per common share

 $0.72  $0.73  $1.35  $1.46 

Diluted earnings per common share

                

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic

  26,935   26,942   27,001   26,892 

Add common stock equivalents for options

  16   45   23   58 

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted (denominator)

  26,951   26,987   27,024   26,950 

Diluted earnings per common share

 $0.72  $0.73  $1.35  $1.46 

 

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, options to purchase 599 thousand and 556 thousand shares of common stock, respectively, were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per common share because the option exercise price exceeded the fair value of the stock such that their inclusion would have had an anti-dilutive effect.

 

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2019, options to purchase 436 thousand and 449 thousand shares of common stock, respectively, were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per common share because the option exercise price exceeded the fair value of the stock such that their inclusion would have had an anti-dilutive effect.

 

- 30-

 
 

Note 12: Impact of COVID-19

 

The COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic Will Have an Uncertain Impact on the Company's Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic caused escalating infections in the United States beginning in the first quarter of 2020 that continued through the second quarter of 2020 and may continue for some time. The spread of the outbreak has disrupted the United States economy including banking and other financial activity in the market areas in which the Company and its banking subsidiary, Westamerica Bank (the "Bank"), operate.  Regions and states of the United States of America have implemented varying degrees of "stay at home" directives in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus. On March 19, 2020, the Governor of the State of California ordered all individuals living in the State of California to stay within their residence to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus and many businesses have suspended or reduced business activities. The California "stay at home" directive excludes essential businesses, including banks, and the Bank remains open and fully operational. These "stay at home" directives have, however, significantly reduced economic activity in the United States and the State of California. In the second quarter of 2020 the “stay at home” directives were gradually lifted in varying stages in counties of the State of California. Counties with high infection rates have delayed reopening and restrictions on certain economic activity remains. California-based initial claims for unemployment have risen considerably during the second quarter of 2020.

 

The Bank's deposits are exclusively sourced within California and its loans are primarily to borrowers domiciled within California. Demand for the Bank's products and services, such as loans and deposits, could be affected as a result of the decline in economic activity within the state. 

 

The Bank's investment portfolio contains bonds for which the source of repayment is domestic mortgage repayments, domestic municipalities throughout the United States, and domestic and global corporations. The value of the Bank's investment portfolio may decline if, for example, the general economy deteriorates, inflation increases, credit ratings decline, the issuers’ financial condition deteriorates or the liquidity for debt securities declines.

 

In response to the pandemic, the Federal Reserve has engaged significant levels of monetary policy to provide liquidity and credit facilities to the financial markets. On March 15, 2020, the Federal Open Market Committee ("FOMC") reduced the target range for the federal funds rate to 0 to 0.25 percent; relatedly, the FOMC reduced the interest rate paid on deposit balances to 0.10 percent effective March 16, 2020, all of which may negatively impact net interest income. The Bank maintains deposit balances at the Federal Reserve Bank; the amount that earns interest is identified in the Company's financial statements as "interest-bearing cash".

 

In response to the pandemic, the United States federal government enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the "CARES Act") on March 27, 2020, providing an estimated $2 trillion fiscal stimulus to the United States economy. The CARES Act established the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) with $350 billion to provide businesses with federally guaranteed loans to support payroll and certain operating expenses. The loans were guaranteed by the United States Small Business Administration (“SBA”) and funded through banks. In April 2020, the PPP program was expanded with an additional $310 billion. At June 30, 2020, the Bank funded $249 million in government guaranteed PPP loans which meaningfully increased interest-earning assets and related interest and fee income.

 

The extent of the spread of the coronavirus, its ultimate containment and its effects on the economy and the Company are uncertain at this time. The effectiveness of the Federal Reserve Bank's monetary policies and the federal government's fiscal policies in stimulating the United States economy is uncertain at this time.

 

Management expects the Company's net interest margin and non-interest income to decline and credit-related losses to increase for an uncertain period given the decline in economic activity occurring due to the coronavirus. The amount of impact on the Company's financial results is uncertain.

 

In addition, the Company's future success and profitability substantially depends upon the skills and experience of its executive officers and directors, many of whom have held positions with the Company for many years. The unanticipated loss or unavailability of key employees due to the outbreak could adversely affect the Company's ability to operate its business or execute its business strategy.

 

- 31-

 

Any one or a combination of the factors identified above, or other factors, could materially adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

The Recent Decline in Oil Prices Could Have an Impact on the Company's Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Oil prices have declined considerably in the first half of 2020. The decline in oil prices could negatively affect the financial results of industrial sector-based and energy sector-based corporate issuers of corporate bonds owned by the Company. The Company’s corporate debt securities include 14 issuers in industrial and energy sectors with aggregate amortized cost of $275.6 million and fair value of $287.4 million at June 30, 2020. These securities continue to be investment grade rated by a major rating agency.

 

The Company’s participation in the SBA PPP loan program exposes it to risks of noncompliance with the PPP and litigation, which could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The Company is a participating lender in the PPP. The SBA guarantees 100% of loans funded under the PPP. Loan proceeds used for eligible payroll and certain other operating costs are forgiven with repayment of loan principal and accrued interest made by the SBA. There is some ambiguity in the laws, rules and guidance regarding the operation of the PPP, which exposes the Company to potential risks relating to noncompliance with the PPP. Any financial liability, litigation costs or reputational damage caused by PPP related litigation or regulatory enforcement could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, the Company may be exposed to credit risk on PPP loans if the SBA determines that there is a deficiency in the manner in which the loan was originated, funded, or serviced. If the SBA identifies a deficiency, it could deny its liability under the guaranty, reduce the amount of the guaranty, or, if it has already paid under the guaranty, seek recovery of any loss related to the deficiency from the Company.

 

 

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

 

WESTAMERICA BANCORPORATION 

FINANCIAL SUMMARY

 

   

For the Three Months

   

For the Six Months

 
   

Ended June 30,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

 
   

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

Net Interest and Loan Fee Income (FTE)(1)

  $ 42,063     $ 40,330     $ 82,610     $ 80,577  

Provision for Loan Losses

    -       -       4,300       -  

Noninterest Income

    9,554       12,288       21,202       23,867  

Noninterest Expense

    24,754       25,561       49,418       50,744  

Income Before Income Taxes (FTE)(1)

    26,863       27,057       50,094       53,700  

Income Tax Provision (FTE)(1)

    7,301       7,432       13,570       14,429  

Net Income

  $ 19,562     $ 19,625     $ 36,524     $ 39,271  
                                 

Average Common Shares Outstanding

    26,935       26,942       27,001       26,892  

Average Diluted Common Shares Outstanding

    26,951       26,987       27,024       26,950  

Common Shares Outstanding at Period End

    26,933       26,962    

 

   

 

 
                                 

Per Common Share:

                         

Basic Earnings

  $ 0.72     $ 0.73     $ 1.35     $ 1.46  

Diluted Earnings

    0.72       0.73       1.35       1.46  

Book Value

    30.00       25.72              
                                 

Financial Ratios:

                         

Return on Assets

    1.30 %     1.42 %     1.25 %     1.42 %

Return on Common Equity

    11.15 %     11.75 %     10.41 %     11.95 %

Net Interest Margin (FTE)(1)

    2.99 %     3.13 %     3.04 %     3.12 %

Net Loan Losses (Recoveries) to Average Loans

    0.09 %     0.12 %     0.22 %     0.21 %

Efficiency Ratio(2)

    48.0 %     48.6 %     47.6 %     48.6 %
                                 

Average Balances:

                         

Assets

  $ 6,058,365     $ 5,560,740     $ 5,856,913     $ 5,586,110  

Loans

    1,232,073       1,183,539       1,178,004       1,194,536  

Investment Securities

    3,957,851       3,648,436       3,901,868       3,669,029  

Deposits

    5,200,475       4,762,286       5,014,731       4,798,288  

Shareholders' Equity

    705,882       669,947       705,606       662,704  
                                 

Period End Balances:

                         

Assets

  $ 6,463,889     $ 5,523,448    

 

   

 

 

Loans

    1,316,359       1,161,712    

 

   

 

 

Investment Securities

    4,346,667       3,645,685    

 

   

 

 

Deposits

    5,468,412       4,730,262    

 

   

 

 

Shareholders' Equity

    808,076       693,437          

 

 
                                 

Capital Ratios at Period End:

                         

Total Risk Based Capital

    14.88 %     17.88 %  

 

   

 

 

Tangible Equity to Tangible Assets

    10.81 %     10.56 %  

 

       
                                 

Dividends Paid Per Common Share

  $ 0.41     $ 0.41     $ 0.82     $ 0.81  

Common Dividend Payout Ratio

    57 %     56 %     61 %     55 %

 

The above financial summary has been derived from the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements. This information should be read in conjunction with those statements, notes and the other information included elsewhere herein. Percentages under the heading "Financial Ratios" are annualized with the exception of the efficiency ratio.

 

(1) Yields on securities and certain loans have been adjusted upward to an FTE basis in order to reflect the effect of income which is exempt from federal income taxation at the current statutory tax rate.

 

(2) The efficiency ratio is defined as noninterest expense divided by total revenue (net interest income on an FTE basis and noninterest income).

 

-33-

 

Financial Overview

 

Westamerica Bancorporation and subsidiaries’ (collectively, the “Company”) reported net income of $19.6 million or $0.72 diluted earnings per common share (“EPS”) for the second quarter 2020 and net income of $36.5 million or $1.35 diluted earnings per common share for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic began in the United States and California in the first quarter 2020 and continued to cause escalating infections in the United States during the second quarter of 2020. In response to the pandemic, the Company’s primary and wholly-owned subsidiary bank, Westamerica Bank (the “Bank”), funded $249 million Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans for the Bank’s customers during the second quarter 2020. PPP loans meaningfully increased interest-earning assets and related interest and fee income. the Bank has been actively working with consumer and commercial borrowers requesting deferral of loan payments. At June 30, 2020, automobile loans and other consumer loans granted loan deferrals totaled $29 million and $5 million, respectively, commercial real estate loans with deferred payments totaled $66 million, primarily for hospitality and retail properties, and commercial loans with deferred payments totals $3 million. The results for the six months ended June 30, 2020 included a provision for credit losses of $4.3 million, which reduced EPS $0.11, representing Management’s estimate of additional reserves needed over the remaining life of its loans due to increased credit-risk from deteriorating economic conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These results compare to net income of $19.6 million or $0.73 diluted earnings per common share for the second quarter 2019 and net income of $39.3 million or $1.46 diluted earnings per common share for the six months ended June 30, 2019. Results for the second quarter 2019 and six months ended June 30, 2019 include a life insurance gain of $433 thousand and $553 thousand in loss contingencies. The loss contingencies include a $301 thousand increase in estimated customer refunds of revenue recognized prior to 2018 and a $252 thousand settlement to dismiss a lawsuit.

 

Regions and states of the United States of America, including California implemented varying degrees of “stay at home” directives in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus in the first quarter of 2020. These directives have significantly reduced economic activity in the United States and the State of California. In the second quarter 2020 the “stay at home” directives were gradually lifted in varying stages in counties of the State of California. Counties with high infection rates have delayed reopening and restrictions on certain economic activity remained. The unemployment claims rose considerably in the second quarter 2020. The California “stay at home” directive excludes essential businesses including banks. The Bank remains open and fully operational.

 

In response to the pandemic, the Federal Reserve has engaged significant levels of monetary policy to provide liquidity and credit facilities to the financial markets. On March 15, 2020, the Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) reduced the target range for the federal funds rate to 0 to 0.25 percent; relatedly, the FOMC reduced the interest rate paid on deposit balances to 0.10 percent effective March 16, 2020. The Bank maintains deposit balances at the Federal Reserve Bank; the amount that earns interest is identified in the Company’s financial statements as “interest-bearing cash”.

 

The extent of the spread of the coronavirus and its ultimate containment are uncertain at this time. The effectiveness of the Federal Reserve Bank’s monetary policies and the federal government’s fiscal policies in stimulating the United States economy is uncertain at this time. Management expects the Company’s net interest margin and non-interest income to decline and credit-related losses to increase for an uncertain period given the decline in economic activity occurring due to the coronavirus. The amount of impact on the Company’s financial results is uncertain. Please refer to Note 12 and Part II, Item 1A “Risk factors” in this Form 10-Q.

 

The Company presents its net interest margin and net interest income on a fully taxable equivalent (“FTE”) basis using the current statutory federal tax rate. Management believes the FTE basis is valuable to the reader because the Company’s loan and investment securities portfolios contain a relatively large portion of municipal loans and securities that are federally tax exempt. The Company’s tax exempt loans and securities composition may not be similar to that of other banks, therefore in order to reflect the impact of the federally tax exempt loans and securities on the net interest margin and net interest income for comparability with other banks, the Company presents its net interest margin and net interest income on an FTE basis.

 

The Company’s significant accounting policies (see Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” to Financial Statements in the Company’s 2019 Form 10-K and Note 2 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” in this Form 10-Q) are fundamental to understanding the Company’s results of operations and financial condition. The Company adopted the following new accounting guidance:

 

FASB ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, was issued on June 16, 2016. The ASU significantly changed estimates for credit losses related to financial assets measured at amortized cost and certain other contracts. For estimating credit losses, the FASB replaced the incurred loss model with the current expected credit loss (CECL) model, which accelerated recognition of credit losses. Additionally, credit losses relating to debt securities available-for-sale are recorded through an allowance for credit losses under the new standard. The Company is also required to provide additional disclosures related to the financial assets within the scope of the new standard.

 

-34-

 

The Company adopted the ASU provisions on January 1, 2020. Management evaluated available data, defined portfolio segments of loans with similar attributes, and selected loss estimate models for each identified loan portfolio segment. Management measured historical loss rates for each portfolio segment. Management also segmented debt securities held to maturity, selected methods to estimate losses for each segment, and measured a loss estimate. Agency mortgage-backed securities were assigned no credit loss allowance due to the perceived backing of government sponsored entities. Municipal securities were evaluated for risk of default based on credit rating and remaining term to maturity using Moody’s risk of default factors; Moody’s loss upon default factors were applied to the assumed defaulted principal amounts to estimate the amount for credit loss allowance. The adjustment to the allowance for credit losses was recorded through an offsetting after-tax adjustment to shareholders’ equity. The implementing entry increased allowance for credit losses by $2,017 thousand, reduced allowance for unfunded credit commitments by $2,107 thousand and increased retained earnings by $52 thousand.

 

FASB ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurements (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement, was issued August 2018. The ASU is part of the disclosure framework project, where the primary focus is to improve the effectiveness of disclosures in the financial statements. The ASU removes, modifies and adds disclosure requirements related to Fair Value Measurements.

 

The provisions of the ASU were effective January 1, 2020 with the option to early adopt any removed or modified disclosures upon issuance of the ASU. The Company early adopted the provisions to remove and/or modify relevant disclosures in the “Fair Value Measurements” note to the unaudited consolidated financial statements. The requirement to include additional disclosures was adopted by the Company January 1, 2020. The additional disclosures did not affect the financial results upon adoption.

 

Net Income

 

Following is a summary of the components of net income for the periods indicated:

 

   

For the Three Months

   

For the Six Months

 
   

Ended June 30,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

 
   

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

Net interest and loan fee income (FTE)

  $ 42,063     $ 40,330     $ 82,610     $ 80,577  

Provision for loan losses

    -       -       4,300       -  

Noninterest income

    9,554       12,288       21,202       23,867  

Noninterest expense

    24,754       25,561       49,418       50,744  

Income before taxes (FTE)

    26,863       27,057       50,094       53,700  

Income tax provision (FTE)

    7,301       7,432       13,570       14,429  

Net income

  $ 19,562     $ 19,625     $ 36,524     $ 39,271  
                                 

Average diluted common shares

    26,951       26,987       27,024       26,950  

Diluted earnings per common share

  $ 0.72     $ 0.73     $ 1.35     $ 1.46  
                                 

Average total assets

  $ 6,058,365     $ 5,560,740     $ 5,856,913     $ 5,586,110  

Net income to average total assets (annualized)

    1.30 %     1.42 %     1.25 %     1.42 %

Net income to average common shareholders' equity (annualized)

    11.15 %     11.75 %     10.41 %     11.95 %

 

Net income for the second quarter 2020 decreased $63 thousand compared with the second quarter 2019. Net interest and loan fee income (FTE) increased $1.7 million in the second quarter 2020 compared with the second quarter 2019 mainly due to higher average balances of investments, higher net yield on those investments and PPP loans funded during the second quarter 2020, partially offset by lower yield on interest-bearing cash and loan payoffs and paydowns. The provision for loan losses remained zero, reflecting Management's evaluation of credit risk over the remaining life of loans and bonds. Second quarter 2020 noninterest income decreased $2.7 million due to lower economic activity related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Second quarter 2020 noninterest expense decreased $807 thousand mostly because second quarter 2019 included $533 thousand in loss contingency. The tax rate (FTE) for the second quarter 2020 was 27.2% compared with 27.5% for the second quarter 2019. In the second quarter 2019, the Company established a $269 thousand valuation allowance against certain deferred tax assets, which, combined with the tax exempt nature of the life insurance gains and excess tax benefits of $83 thousand from stock options, increased the tax rate (FTE) by 0.3%.

 

-35-

 

Comparing the six months ended June 30, 2020 with the six months ended June 30, 2019 net income decreased $2.7 million. Net interest and loan fee (FTE) income increased $2.0 million due to higher average balances of investments, higher net yield on those investments and PPP loans funded during the second quarter 2020, partially offset by lower yield on interest-bearing cash and loan payoffs and paydowns. Results for the six months ended June 30, 2020, include a provision of credit losses of $4.3 million, which reduced EPS $0.11, representing Management estimate of additional reserves needed over the remaining life of its loans due to increased credit-risk form deteriorating economic conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the six months ended June 30, 2019, the provision for loan losses remained zero, reflecting Management's evaluation of losses inherent in the loan portfolio. In the six months ended June 30, 2020, noninterest income decreased $2.7 million primarily due to lower economic activity related to the COVID-19 pandemic, partially offset by a $603 thousand recovery on a previously charged off loan in the first six months of 2020. In the six months ended June 30, 2020 noninterest expense decreased $1.3 million compared with the six months ended June 30, 2019 due to lower salaries, occupancy and equipment expenses, lower FDIC insurance assessments and lower amortization of intangible assets, and because the six months ended June 30, 2019 included $553 thousand in loss contingency. The six months ended June 30, 2020 included a $246 thousand FDIC assessment credit; the Company’s credit is fully exhausted. The tax rate (FTE) for the six months ended June 30, 2020 was 27.1% compared with 26.9% for the six months ended June 30, 2019. In the six months ended June 30, 2019, the Company established a $269 thousand valuation allowance against certain deferred tax assets, which, combined with the tax exempt nature of the life insurance gains and excess tax benefits of $367 thousand from stock options, decreased the tax rate (FTE) 0.4%.

 

Net Interest and Loan Fee Income (FTE)                    

 

Following is a summary of the components of net interest and loan fee income (FTE) for the periods indicated:

 

   

For the Three Months

   

For the Six Months

 
   

Ended June 30,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

 
   

($ in thousands)

 

Interest and loan fee income

  $ 41,539     $ 39,626     $ 81,530     $ 79,109  

Interest expense

    435       487       877       981  

FTE adjustment

    959       1,191       1,957       2,449  

Net interest and loan fee income (FTE)

  $ 42,063     $ 40,330     $ 82,610     $ 80,577  
                                 

Average earning assets

  $ 5,635,014     $ 5,159,112     $ 5,438,578     $ 5,171,973  

Net interest margin (FTE) (annualized)

    2.99 %     3.13 %     3.04 %     3.12 %

 

Net interest and loan fee income (FTE) increased $1.7 million in the second quarter 2020 compared with the second quarter 2019 mainly due to higher average balances of investment securities (up $309 million), a higher net yield on those investment securities (up 0.11%) and average balances of $133 million of PPP loans funded in the second quarter 2020, offset by lower yield on interest-bearing cash (down 2.27%) and lower average balances of other loans (down $84 million).

 

Net interest and loan fee (FTE) income increased $2.0 million in the first six months of 2020 compared with the first six months of 2019 due to higher average balances of investment securities (up $233 million), a higher net yield on investment securities (up 0.02%) and average balances of $66 million of PPP loans funded in the second quarter 2020, offset by lower yield on interest-bearing cash (down 1.84%) and lower average balances of other loans (down $72 million).

 

The annualized net interest margin (FTE) was 2.99% in the second quarter 2020 and 3.04% in the first six months of 2020 compared with 3.13% in the second quarter 2019 and 3.12% in the first six months of 2019. The lower yield in in the second quarter 2020 and the first six months of 2020 compared with 2019 is primarily due to lower yield on interest-bearing cash which made up a higher percentage of total earning assets in the current periods (7.9% in the second quarter 2020 compared with 6.3% in the second quarter 2019 and 6.6% in the first six months of 2020 compared with 6.0% in the first six months of 2019).

 

The Company’s funding costs were 0.03% in the second quarter 2020 and in the first six months of 2020 compared with 0.04% in the second quarter 2019 and in the first six months of 2019. Average balances of time deposits in the second quarter 2020 declined $21 million from the second quarter 2019 and $22 million in the first six months of 2020 from the first six months of 2019. Average balances of checking and saving deposits accounted for 96.8% of average total deposits in the second quarter 2020 and 96.7% in the first six months of 2020 compared with 96.1% in the second quarter 2019 and in the first six months of 2019.

 

-36-

 

Net Interest Margin (FTE)

 

The following summarizes the components of the Company's net interest margin (FTE) for the periods indicated (percentages are annualized.)

 

     

For the Three Months

   

For the Six Months

 
     

Ended June 30,

 
     

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

 
                                   

Yield on earning assets (FTE)

    3.02 %     3.17 %     3.07 %     3.16 %

Rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities

    0.06 %     0.08 %     0.07 %     0.08 %

Net interest spread (FTE)

    2.96 %     3.09 %     3.00 %     3.08 %

Impact of noninterest-bearing demand deposits

    0.03 %     0.04 %     0.04 %     0.04 %

Net interest margin (FTE)

    2.99 %     3.13 %     3.04 %     3.12 %

 

 

 

 

 

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-37-

 

Summary of Average Balances, Yields/Rates and Interest Differential

 

The following tables present information regarding the consolidated average assets, liabilities and shareholders’ equity, the amounts of interest income earned from average interest earning assets and the resulting yields, and the amounts of interest expense incurred on average interest-bearing liabilities and the resulting rates. Average loan balances include nonperforming loans. Interest income includes reversal of previously accrued interest on loans placed on non-accrual status during the period and proceeds from loans on nonaccrual status only to the extent cash payments have been received and applied as interest income and accretion of purchased loan discounts. Yields, rates and interest margins are annualized.

 

Distribution of Assets, Liabilities & Shareholders’ Equity and Yields, Rates & Interest Margin

 

   

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2020

 
           

Interest

         
   

Average

   

Income/

   

Yields/

 
   

Balance

   

Expense

   

Rates

 
   

($ in thousands)

 

Assets

                       

Investment securities:

                       

Taxable

  $ 3,469,925     $ 22,920       2.64 %

Tax-exempt (1)

    487,926       4,089       3.35 %

Total investments (1)

    3,957,851       27,009       2.73 %

Loans:

                       

Taxable

                       

Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") loans

    132,500       1,673       5.07 %

Other

    1,053,420       13,235       5.05 %

Total taxable

    1,185,920       14,908       5.06 %

Tax-exempt (1)

    46,153       468       4.08 %

Total loans (1)

    1,232,073       15,376       5.02 %

Total interest-bearing cash

    445,090       113       0.10 %

Total Interest-earning assets (1)

    5,635,014       42,498       3.02 %

Other assets

    423,351                  

Total assets

  $ 6,058,365                  
                         

Liabilities and shareholders' equity

                       

Noninterest-bearing demand

  $ 2,496,840     $ -       - %

Savings and interest-bearing transaction

    2,539,073       298       0.05 %

Time less than $100,000

    92,295       47       0.20 %

Time $100,000 or more

    72,267       79       0.44 %

Total interest-bearing deposits

    2,703,635       424       0.06 %

Short-term borrowed funds

    70,116       10       0.06 %

Other borrowed funds

    699       1       0.35 %

Total interest-bearing liabilities

    2,774,450       435       0.06 %

Other liabilities

    81,193                  

Shareholders' equity

    705,882                  

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

  $ 6,058,365                  

Net interest spread (1) (2)

                    2.96 %

Net interest and fee income and interest margin (1) (3)

          $ 42,063       2.99 %

 

(1) Amounts calculated on an FTE basis using the current statutory federal tax rate.

(2) Net interest spread represents the average yield earned on interest-earning assets less the average rate incurred on interest-bearing liabilities.

(3) Net interest margin is computed by calculating the difference between interest income and expense, divided by the average balance of interest-earning assets. The net interest margin is greater than the net interest spread due to the benefit of noninterest-bearing demand deposits.

 

 

-38-

 

Distribution of Assets, Liabilities & Shareholders’ Equity and Yields, Rates & Interest Margin

 

   

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2019

 
           

Interest

         
   

Average

   

Income/

   

Yields/

 
   

Balance

   

Expense

   

Rates

 
   

($ in thousands)

 

Assets

                       

Investment securities:

                       

Taxable

  $ 3,006,905     $ 18,773       2.50 %

Tax-exempt (1)

    641,531       5,157       3.22 %

Total investments (1)

    3,648,436       23,930       2.62 %

Loans:

                       

Taxable

    1,133,168       14,417       5.10 %

Tax-exempt (1)

    50,371       512       4.08 %

Total loans (1)

    1,183,539       14,929       5.06 %

Total interest-bearing cash

    327,137       1,958       2.37 %

Total Interest-earning assets (1)

    5,159,112       40,817       3.17 %

Other assets

    401,628                  

Total assets

  $ 5,560,740                  
                         

Liabilities and shareholders' equity

                       

Noninterest-bearing demand

  $ 2,172,207     $ -       - %

Savings and interest-bearing transaction

    2,404,415       331       0.06 %

Time less than $100,000

    105,544       65       0.25 %

Time $100,000 or more

    80,120       82       0.41 %

Total interest-bearing deposits

    2,590,079       478       0.07 %

Short-term borrowed funds

    56,602       9       0.06 %

Total interest-bearing liabilities

    2,646,681       487       0.08 %

Other liabilities

    71,905                  

Shareholders' equity

    669,947                  

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

  $ 5,560,740                  

Net interest spread (1) (2)

                    3.09 %

Net interest and fee income and interest margin (1) (3)

          $ 40,330       3.13 %

 

(1) Amounts calculated on an FTE basis using the current statutory federal tax rate.

(2) Net interest spread represents the average yield earned on interest-earning assets less the average rate incurred on interest-bearing liabilities.

(3) Net interest margin is computed by calculating the difference between interest income and expense, divided by the average balance of interest-earning assets. The net interest margin is greater than the net interest spread due to the benefit of noninterest-bearing demand deposits.

 

 

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-39-

 

 

Distribution of Assets, Liabilities & Shareholders’ Equity and Yields, Rates & Interest Margin

 

   

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2020

 
           

Interest

         
   

Average

   

Income/

   

Yields/

 
   

Balance

   

Expense

   

Rates

 
   

($ in thousands)

 

Assets

                       

Investment securities:

                       

Taxable

  $ 3,399,930     $ 44,884       2.64 %

Tax-exempt (1)

    501,938       8,348       3.33 %

Total investments (1)

    3,901,868       53,232       2.73 %

Loans:

                       

Taxable:

                       

PPP loans

    66,250       1,673       5.07 %

Other

    1,065,395       26,666       5.03 %

Total taxable

    1,131,645       28,339       5.04 %

Tax-exempt (1)

    46,359       947       4.11 %

Total loans (1)

    1,178,004       29,286       5.00 %

Total interest-bearing cash

    358,706       969       0.53 %

Total Interest-earning assets (1)

    5,438,578       83,487       3.07 %

Other assets

    418,335                  

Total assets

  $ 5,856,913                  
                         

Liabilities and shareholders' equity

                       

Noninterest-bearing demand

  $ 2,359,788     $ -       - %

Savings and interest-bearing transaction

    2,488,577       599       0.05 %

Time less than $100,000

    93,308       101       0.22 %

Time $100,000 or more

    73,058       158       0.44 %

Total interest-bearing deposits

    2,654,943       858       0.06 %

Short-term borrowed funds

    56,223       18       0.07 %

Other borrowed funds

    349       1       0.35 %

Total interest-bearing liabilities

    2,711,515       877       0.07 %

Other liabilities

    80,004                  

Shareholders' equity

    705,606                  

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

  $ 5,856,913                  

Net interest spread (1) (2)

                    3.00 %

Net interest and fee income and interest margin (1) (3)

          $ 82,610       3.04 %

 

(1) Amounts calculated on an FTE basis using the current statutory federal tax rate.

(2) Net interest spread represents the average yield earned on interest-earning assets less the average rate incurred on interest-bearing liabilities.

(3) Net interest margin is computed by calculating the difference between interest income and expense, divided by the average balance of interest-earning assets. The net interest margin is greater than the net interest spread due to the benefit of noninterest-bearing demand deposits.

 

 

 

 

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-40-

 

 

Distribution of Assets, Liabilities & Shareholders’ Equity and Yields, Rates & Interest Margin

 

   

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2019

 
           

Interest

         
   

Average

   

Income/

   

Yields/

 
   

Balance

   

Expense

   

Rates

 
   

($ in thousands)

 

Assets

                       

Investment securities:

                       

Taxable

  $ 3,007,970     $ 37,406       2.49 %

Tax-exempt (1)

    661,059       10,619       3.21 %

Total investments (1)

    3,669,029       48,025       2.62 %

Loans:

                       

Taxable

    1,143,516       28,795       5.08 %

Tax-exempt (1)

    51,020       1,042       4.12 %

Total loans (1)

    1,194,536       29,837       5.04 %

Total interest-bearing cash

    308,408       3,696       2.38 %

Total Interest-earning assets (1)

    5,171,973       81,558       3.16 %

Other assets

    414,137                  

Total assets

  $ 5,586,110                  
                         

Liabilities and shareholders' equity

                       

Noninterest-bearing demand

  $ 2,188,131     $ -       - %

Savings and interest-bearing transaction

    2,421,392       668       0.06 %

Time less than $100,000

    107,314       131       0.25 %

Time $100,000 or more

    81,451       164       0.41 %

Total interest-bearing deposits

    2,610,157       963       0.07 %

Short-term borrowed funds

    57,906       18       0.06 %

Total interest-bearing liabilities

    2,668,063       981       0.08 %

Other liabilities

    67,212                  

Shareholders' equity

    662,704                  

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

  $ 5,586,110                  

Net interest spread (1) (2)

                    3.08 %

Net interest and fee income and interest margin (1) (3)

          $ 80,577       3.12 %

 

(1) Amounts calculated on an FTE basis using the current statutory federal tax rate.

(2) Net interest spread represents the average yield earned on interest-earning assets less the average rate incurred on interest-bearing liabilities.

(3) Net interest margin is computed by calculating the difference between interest income and expense, divided by the average balance of interest-earning assets. The net interest margin is greater than the net interest spread due to the benefit of noninterest-bearing demand deposits.

 

 

 

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-41-

 

Summary of Changes in Interest Income and Expense due to Changes in Average Asset & Liability Balances and Yields Earned & Rates Paid

 

The following tables set forth a summary of the changes in interest income and interest expense due to changes in average assets and liability balances (volume) and changes in average interest yields/rates for the periods indicated. Changes not solely attributable to volume or yields/rates have been allocated in proportion to the respective volume and yield/rate components.

 

Summary of Changes in Interest Income and Expense

 

   

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2020

 
   

Compared with

 
   

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2019

 
   

Volume

   

Yield/Rate

   

Total

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Increase (decrease) in interest and loan fee income:

                       

Investment securities:

                       

Taxable

  $ 2,891     $ 1,256     $ 4,147  

Tax-exempt (1)

    (1,235 )     167       (1,068 )

Total investments (1)

    1,656       1,423       3,079  

Loans:

                       

Taxable:

                       

PPP loans

    1,673       -       1,673  

Other

    (1,061 )     (121 )     (1,182 )

Total taxable

    612       (121 )     491  

Tax-exempt (1)

    (44 )     -       (44 )

Total loans (1)

    568       (121 )     447  

Total interest-bearing cash

    714       (2,559 )     (1,845 )

Total (decrease) increase in interest and loan fee income (1)

    2,938       (1,257 )     1,681  

(Decrease) increase in interest expense:

                       

Deposits:

                       

Savings and interest-bearing transaction

    19       (52 )     (33 )

Time less than $100,000

    (8 )     (10 )     (18 )

Time $100,000 or more

    (8 )     5       (3 )

Total interest-bearing deposits

    3       (57 )     (54 )

Short-term borrowed funds

    1       -       1  

Other borrowed funds

    1       -       1  

Total increase (decrease) in interest expense

    5       (57 )     (52 )

(Decrease) increase in net interest and loan fee income (1)

  $ 2,933     $ (1,200 )   $ 1,733  

 

(1) Amounts calculated on an FTE basis using the current statutory federal tax rate.

 

 

 

 

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-42-

 

Summary of Changes in Interest Income and Expense

 

   

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2020

 
   

Compared with

 
   

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2019

 
   

Volume

   

Yield/Rate

   

Total

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Increase (decrease) in interest and loan fee income:

                       

Investment securities:

                       

Taxable

  $ 4,874     $ 2,604     $ 7,478  

Tax-exempt (1)

    (2,556 )     285       (2,271 )

Total investments (1)

    2,318       2,889       5,207  

Loans:

                       

Taxable:

                       

PPP loans

    1,673       -       1,673  

Other

    (1,902 )     (227 )     (2,129 )

Total taxable

    (229 )     (227 )     (456 )

Tax-exempt (1)

    (93 )     (2 )     (95 )

Total loans (1)

    (322 )     (229 )     (551 )

Total interest-bearing cash

    606       (3,333 )     (2,727 )

Total increase (decrease) in interest and loan fee income (1)

    2,602       (673 )     1,929  

Increase (decrease) in interest expense:

                       

Deposits:

                       

Savings and interest-bearing transaction

    19       (88 )     (69 )

Time less than $100,000

    (17 )     (13 )     (30 )

Time $100,000 or more

    (19 )     13       (6 )

Total interest-bearing deposits

    (17 )     (88 )     (105 )

Short-term borrowed funds

    (1 )     1       0  

Other borrowed funds

    1       -       1  

Total decrease in interest expense

    (17 )     (87 )     (104 )

Increase (decrease) in net interest and loan fee income (1)

  $ 2,619     $ (586 )   $ 2,033  

 

 (1) Amounts calculated on an FTE basis using the current statutory federal tax rate.

 

Provision for Credit Losses

 

The Company manages credit costs by consistently enforcing conservative underwriting and administration procedures and aggressively pursuing collection efforts with debtors experiencing financial difficulties. The provision for credit losses reflects Management's assessment of credit risk in the loan portfolio and debt securities held to maturity during each of the periods presented.

 

The Company’s first six months of 2020 results include a provision of credit losses of $4.3 million recorded in the first quarter 2020. The provision represents Management’s estimate of additional reserves needed over the remaining life of its loans due to increased credit-risk from deteriorating economic conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Company provided no provision for credit losses in the second quarter 2020, the second quarter 2019 and the first six months of 2019 based on Management’s evaluation of credit quality and the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses. For further information regarding credit risk, net credit losses and the allowance for credit losses, see the “Loan Portfolio Credit Risk” and “Allowance for Credit Losses” sections of this Report.

 

-43-

 

Noninterest Income

 

The following table summarizes the components of noninterest income for the periods indicated.

 

   

For the Three Months

   

For the Six Months

 
   

Ended June 30,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

 
   

(In thousands)

 
                                 

Service charges on deposit accounts

  $ 3,151     $ 4,493     $ 7,399     $ 8,997  

Merchant processing services

    2,277       2,657       4,635       5,215  

Debit card fees

    1,459       1,641       2,927       3,148  

Trust fees

    714       749       1,491       1,466  

ATM processing fees

    518       722       1,097       1,355  

Other service fees

    420       585       926       1,162  

Financial services commissions

    123       93       248       194  

Life insurance gains

    -       433       -       433  

Securities gains

    71       26       71       50  

Other noninterest income

    821       889       2,408       1,847  

Total

  $ 9,554     $ 12,288     $ 21,202     $ 23,867  

 

 

Second quarter 2020 noninterest income decreased $2.7 million due to lower activity based fees from reduced economic activity related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the second quarter 2019 included a life insurance gain of $433 thousand.

 

In the first six months of 2020, noninterest income decreased $2.7 million compared with the first six months of 2019 due to lower income from activity based fees due to reduced economic activity related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the first six months of 2019 included a life insurance gain of $433 thousand. The decrease was offset by a $603 thousand recovery on a previously charged off loan in the first six months of 2020.

 

Noninterest Expense

 

The following table summarizes the components of noninterest expense for the periods indicated.

 

   

For the Three Months

   

For the Six Months

 
   

Ended June 30,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

 
   

(In thousands)

 
                                 

Salaries and related benefits

  $ 12,900     $ 13,090     $ 25,918     $ 26,198  

Occupancy and equipment

    4,791       4,916       9,723       9,964  

Outsourced data processing services

    2,324       2,367       4,729       4,736  

Professional fees

    643       481       1,032       1,146  

Courier service

    508       451       999       893  

Amortization of identifiable intangibles

    73       79       146       389  

Loss contingency

    -       553       -       553  

Other noninterest expense

    3,515       3,624       6,871       6,865  

Total

  $ 24,754     $ 25,561     $ 49,418     $ 50,744  

 

Noninterest expense decreased $807 thousand in the second quarter 2020 compared with the second quarter 2019 primarily due to $553 thousand of loss contingency in the second quarter 2019. Additionally, lower salaries, related benefits, occupancy and equipment costs also contributed to reducing noninterest expense in the second quarter 2020. The decrease was partially offset by higher professional fees.

 

-44-

 

In the first six months of 2020, noninterest expense decreased $1.3 million compared with the six months ended June 30, 2019 due to lower salaries, occupancy and equipment expenses, lower FDIC insurance assessments and lower amortization of intangible assets, and because the six months ended June 30, 2019 included $553 thousand of loss contingency. The six months ended June 30, 2020 included a $246 thousand FDIC assessment credit; the Company’s credit is fully exhausted.

 

Provision for Income Tax

 

The Company’s income tax provision (FTE) was $7.3 million for the second quarter 2020 and $13.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020 compared with $7.4 million for the second quarter 2019 and $14.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2019. The effective tax rates (FTE) of 27.2% for the second quarter 2020 and 27.1% for the six months ended June 30, 2020 compared with 27.5% for the second quarter 2019 and 26.9% for the six months ended June 30, 2019.

 

In the second quarter 2019, the Company re-assessed its ability to realize benefits from California capital loss carryforwards. The Company established a $269 thousand valuation allowance against certain deferred tax assets, which, combined with the tax exempt nature of the life insurance gains and excess tax benefits of $83 thousand from stock options, increased the tax rate (FTE) by 0.3%.

 

In the second quarter 2019, the Company decreased unrecognized tax benefits by $909 thousand related to settlements with taxing authorities. The settlements incorporated amended tax returns for which the Company had recognized a deferred tax asset in the amount of $1,003 thousand.

 

Investment Securities Portfolio

 

The Company maintains an investment securities portfolio consisting of securities issued by U.S. Government sponsored entities, agency and non-agency mortgage backed securities, state and political subdivisions, corporations, collateralized loan obligations, commercial paper and other securities.

 

Management managed the investment securities portfolio in response to changes in deposit and loan volumes. The following table indicates the carrying values of investment securities in the Company’s portfolio by type as of the indicated dates.

 

   

At June 30, 2020

   

At December 31, 2019

 
   

($ in thousands)

 
   

Carrying Value

   

As a percent of total investment securities

   

Carrying Value

   

As a percent of total investment securities

 

Agency mortgage-backed securities

  $ 1,148,153       27 %   $ 1,297,395       34 %

Obligations of states and political subdivisions

    483,884       11 %     544,920       14 %

Corporate securities

    2,269,411       52 %     1,833,783       48 %

Commercial paper

    299,582       7 %     -       - %

Collateralized loan obligations

    143,338       3 %     6,755       - %

U.S. Treasuries and agencies

    -       - %     131,167       4 %

Other

    2,283       - %     2,898       - %

Total

  $ 4,346,651       100 %   $ 3,816,918       100 %
                                 

Debt securities available for sale

  $ 3,708,370             $ 3,078,846          

Debt securities held to maturity

    638,281               738,072          

Total

  $ 4,346,651             $ 3,816,918          

 

Management continually evaluates the Company’s investment securities portfolio in response to established asset/liability management objectives, changing market conditions that could affect profitability, liquidity, and the level of interest rate risk to which the Company is exposed. These evaluations may cause Management to change the level of funds the Company deploys into investment securities and change the composition of the Company’s investment securities portfolio.

 

At June 30, 2020, substantially all of the Company’s investment securities continue to be investment grade rated by one or more major rating agencies. In addition to monitoring credit rating agency evaluations, Management performs its own evaluations regarding the credit worthiness of the issuer or the securitized assets underlying asset-backed securities. The Company’s procedures for evaluating investments in securities are in accordance with guidance issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, “Investing in Securities without Reliance on Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Agencies” (SR 12-15) and other regulatory guidance. There have been no significant differences in the Company’s internal analyses compared with the ratings assigned by the third party credit rating agencies.

 

-45-

 

The following table summarizes total corporate securities by the industry sector in which the issuing companies operate:

 

   

At June 30, 2020

   

At December 31, 2019

 
   

Market value

   

As a percent of total corporate securities

   

Market value

   

As a percent of total corporate securities

 
   

($ in thousands)

 

Financial

  $ 1,006,385       44 %   $ 772,852       42 %

Utilities

    237,758       11 %     222,951       12 %

Consumer, Non-cyclical

    198,418       9 %     185,784       10 %

Industrial

    188,029       8 %     177,051       10 %

Communications

    173,280       8 %     128,635       7 %

Basic Materials

    139,826       6 %     76,434       4 %

Technology

    133,775       6 %     107,632       6 %

Energy

    99,396       4 %     86,883       5 %

Consumer, Cyclical

    92,544       4 %     75,561       4 %

Total Corporate securities

  $ 2,269,411       100 %   $ 1,833,783       100 %

 

The following table summarizes total consumer, cyclical by sub-sector:

 

   

At June 30, 2020

 
   

Market value

 
   

($ in thousands)

 

Hotels

  $ -  

Restaurants

    21,286  

Department Stores

    -  

Casinos

    -  

Airlines

    -  

Other

    71,258  

Total Consumer, Cyclical

  $ 92,544  

 

 

The Company’s $21.3 million in corporate bonds to issuers operating in the consumer cyclical – restaurant subsector represent bonds of one company which retails, roasts and provides its own brand of specialty coffee and other complimentary products through retail locations worldwide and sells coffee through several distribution channels. The bonds mature in 2023. At June 30, 2020, the bonds were rated BBB and priced with an unrealized gain of $1.3 million.

 

 

 

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-46-

 

The following table summarizes total corporate securities by credit rating:

 

   

At June 30, 2020

   

At December 31, 2019

 
   

Market value

   

As a percent of total corporate securities

   

Market value

   

As a percent of total corporate securities

 
   

($ in thousands)

 

AAA

  $ 21,980       1 %   $ 26,148       1 %

AA+

    21,141       1 %     45,697       2 %

AA

    41,460       2 %     19,776       1 %

AA-

    47,301       2 %     46,099       3 %

A+

    181,562       8 %     179,217       10 %

A

    459,201       20 %     439,017       24 %

A-

    392,375       17 %     351,909       19 %

BBB+

    528,320       23 %     384,788       21 %

BBB

    517,703       23 %     314,868       17 %

BBB-

    43,673       2 %     11,737       1 %

Investment grade

    2,254,716       99 %     1,819,256       99 %

BB

    14,695       1 %     14,527       1 %

Total Corporate securities

  $ 2,269,411       100 %   $ 1,833,783       100 %

 

The Company’s $14.7 million corporate bond rated BB represents a bond of one pharmaceutical company which develops, manufactures and markets generic and branded human pharmaceuticals, as well as active pharmaceutical ingredients, to customers worldwide. The bond matures in 2021; the issuing company has refinanced much of its debt obligations beyond the maturity date.

 

The following tables summarize the total general obligation and revenue bonds issued by states and political subdivisions held in the Company’s investment securities portfolios as of the dates indicated, identifying the state in which the issuing government municipality or agency operates.

 

At June 30, 2020, the Company’s investment securities portfolios included securities issued by 404 state and local government municipalities and agencies located within 41 states. The largest exposure to any one municipality or agency was $9.0 million (fair value) represented by one general obligation bond.

 

   

At June 30, 2020

 
   

Amortized

   

Fair

 
   

Cost

   

Value

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Obligations of states and political subdivisions:

         

General obligation bonds:

         

California

  $ 81,033     $ 83,861  

New Jersey

    27,548       27,914  

Texas

    24,656       25,312  

Washington

    23,140       23,967  

Other (32 states)

    186,131       192,000  

Total general obligation bonds

  $ 342,508     $ 353,054  

 

               

Revenue bonds:

               

California

  $ 29,222     $ 29,655  

Colorado

    12,147       12,440  

Kentucky

    11,329       11,745  

Indiana

    9,367       9,629  

Washington

    9,345       9,579  

Virginia

    8,013       8,433  

Arizona

    7,126       7,256  

Other (23 states)

    49,949       50,869  

Total revenue bonds

  $ 136,498     $ 139,606  

Total obligations of states and political subdivisions

  $ 479,006     $ 492,660  

 

 

-47-

 

At December 31, 2019, the Company’s investment securities portfolios included securities issued by 451 state and local government municipalities and agencies located within 42 states. The largest exposure to any one municipality or agency was $9.0 million (fair value) represented by one general obligation bond.

 

   

At December 31, 2019

 
   

Amortized

   

Fair

 
   

Cost

   

Value

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Obligations of states and political subdivisions:

         

General obligation bonds:

         

California

  $ 83,984     $ 86,527  

Texas

    36,396       36,815  

New Jersey

    29,347       29,688  

Washington

    23,862       24,516  

Minnesota

    20,624       20,871  

Other (33 states)

    189,286       193,302  

Total general obligation bonds

  $ 383,499     $ 391,719  
                 

Revenue bonds:

               

California

  $ 31,829     $ 32,278  

Kentucky

    16,384       16,680  

Colorado

    12,176       12,479  

Washington

    11,208       11,509  

Indiana

    9,935       10,145  

Virginia

    8,027       8,328  

Arizona

    7,912       8,106  

Other (25 states)

    60,338       61,347  

Total revenue bonds

  $ 157,809     $ 160,872  

Total obligations of states and political subdivisions

  $ 541,308     $ 552,591  

 

At June 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the revenue bonds in the Company’s investment securities portfolios were issued by state and local government municipalities and agencies to fund public services such as water utility, sewer utility, recreational and school facilities, and general public and economic improvements. The revenue bonds were payable from 20 revenue sources at June 30, 2020 and at December 31, 2019. The revenue sources that represent 5% or more individually of the total revenue bonds are summarized in the following tables.

 

   

At June 30, 2020

 
   

Amortized

   

Fair

 
   

Cost

   

Value

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Revenue bonds by revenue source:

               

Water

  $ 30,609     $ 31,215  

Sewer

    17,584       18,191  

Sales tax

    14,989       15,341  

Lease (renewal)

    9,846       10,209  

Lease (abatement)

    8,820       9,058  

Other (15 sources)

    54,650       55,592  

Total revenue bonds by revenue source

  $ 136,498     $ 139,606  

 

 

 

 

[The remainder of this page intentionally left blank]

 

-48-

 

 

   

At December 31, 2019

 
   

Amortized

   

Fair

 
   

Cost

   

Value

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Revenue bonds by revenue source:

               

Water

  $ 36,960     $ 37,699  

Sewer

    19,039       19,545  

Sales tax

    15,695       16,101  

Lease (renewal)

    15,230       15,539  

Lease (abatement)

    10,913       11,160  

Other (15 sources)

    59,972       60,828  

Total revenue bonds by revenue source

  $ 157,809     $ 160,872  

 

See Note 3 to the unaudited consolidated financial statements for additional information related to the investment securities.

 

Loan Portfolio Credit Risk

 

The Company extends loans to commercial and consumer customers which expose the Company to the risk borrowers will default, causing loan losses. The Company’s lending activities are exposed to various qualitative risks. All loan segments are exposed to risks inherent in the economy and market conditions. Significant risk characteristics related to the commercial loan segment include the borrowers’ business performance and financial condition, and the value of collateral for secured loans. Significant risk characteristics related to the commercial real estate segment include the borrowers’ business performance and the value of properties collateralizing the loans. Significant risk characteristics related to the construction loan segment include the borrowers’ performance in successfully developing the real estate into the intended purpose and the value of the property collateralizing the loans. Significant risk characteristics related to the residential real estate segment include the borrowers’ financial wherewithal to service the mortgages and the value of the property collateralizing the loans. Significant risk characteristics related to the consumer loan segment include the financial condition of the borrowers and the value of collateral securing the loans.

 

The Bank processed customer Paycheck Protection Program loan (“PPP loan”) applications as established by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”). The United States Small Business Administration guarantees PPP loans; given this guarantee, the PPP loans are not considered to have default risk. The Company funded $249 million PPP loans in the second quarter 2020.

 

On April 7, 2020, the U.S. banking agencies issued an Interagency Statement on Loan Modifications and Reporting for Financial Institutions Working with Customers Affected by the Coronavirus (Revised). The statement describes accounting for COVID-19-related loan modifications, including clarifying the interaction between current accounting rules and the temporary relief provided by the CARES Act. The Bank has been actively working with consumer and commercial borrowers requesting deferral of loan payments, granting deferrals of principal and interest payments for 90 days. At June 30, 2020, automobile loans and other consumer loans granted loan deferrals totaled $29 million and $5 million, respectively. Commercial real estate loans with deferred payments totaled $66 million, primarily for hospitality and retail properties. Commercial loans with deferred payments totaled $3 million.

 

The preparation of the financial statements requires Management to estimate the amount of expected losses in the loan portfolio and establish an allowance for credit losses. The allowance for credit losses is maintained by assessing or reversing a provision for loan losses through the Company’s earnings. In estimating credit losses, Management must exercise judgment in evaluating information deemed relevant, such as financial information regarding individual borrowers, overall credit loss experience, the amount of past due, nonperforming and classified loans, recommendations of regulatory authorities, prevailing economic conditions and other information. The amount of ultimate losses on the loan portfolio can vary from the estimated amounts. Management follows a systematic methodology to estimate loss potential in an effort to reduce the differences between estimated and actual losses.

 

The Company closely monitors the markets in which it conducts its lending operations and follows a strategy to control exposure to loans with high credit risk. The Bank’s organization structure separates the functions of business development and loan underwriting; Management believes this segregation of duties avoids inherent conflicts of combining business development and loan approval functions. In measuring and managing credit risk, the Company adheres to the following practices.

 

-49-

 

 

The Bank maintains a Loan Review Department which reports directly to the audit committee of the Board of Directors. The Loan Review Department performs independent evaluations of loans to challenge the credit risk grades assigned by Management using grading standards employed by bank regulatory agencies. Those loans judged to carry higher risk attributes are referred to as “classified loans.” Classified loans receive elevated Management attention to maximize collection.

 

 

The Bank maintains two loan administration offices whose sole responsibility is to manage and collect classified loans.

 

Classified loans with higher levels of credit risk are further designated as “nonaccrual loans.” Management places classified loans on nonaccrual status when full collection of contractual interest and principal payments is in doubt. Uncollected interest previously accrued on loans placed on nonaccrual status is reversed as a charge against interest income. The Company does not accrue interest income on loans following placement on nonaccrual status. Interest payments received on nonaccrual loans are applied to reduce the carrying amount of the loan unless the carrying amount is well secured by loan collateral. “Nonperforming assets” include nonaccrual loans, loans 90 or more days past due and still accruing, and repossessed loan collateral (commonly referred to as “Other Real Estate Owned”).

 

Nonperforming Assets

                       
   

At June 30,

   

At December 31,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2019

 
   

(In thousands)

 
                         

Nonperforming nonaccrual loans

  $ 590     $ 177     $ 659  

Performing nonaccrual loans

    3,643       3,670       3,781  

Total nonaccrual loans

    4,233       3,847       4,440  

Accruing loans 90 or more days past due

    290       249       440  

Total nonperforming loans

    4,523       4,096       4,880  

Other real estate owned

    43       43       43  

Total nonperforming assets

  $ 4,566     $ 4,139     $ 4,923  

 

At June 30, 2020, one loan secured by commercial real estate with a balance of $3.4 million was on nonaccrual status. The remaining six nonaccrual loans held at June 30, 2020 had an average carrying value of $136 thousand.

 

Management believes the overall credit quality of the loan portfolio is reasonably stable; however, classified and nonperforming assets could fluctuate from period to period. The performance of any individual loan can be affected by external factors such as the interest rate environment, economic conditions, pandemics, and collateral values or factors particular to the borrower. No assurance can be given that additional increases in nonaccrual and delinquent loans will not occur in the future.

 

Allowance for Credit Losses

 

Effective January 1, 2020, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses: Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“CECL”). The following table summarizes allowance for credit losses at the dates indicated:

 

   

At June 30,

   

At December 31,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2019

 
   

(In thousands)

 
                         

Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans

  $ 24,529     $ 20,117     $ 19,484  

Allowance for Credit Losses on Held to Maturity Debt Securities

    16       -       -  

Total Allowance for Credit Losses

  $ 24,545     $ 20,117     $ 19,484  

 

 

Allowance for Credit Losses on Debt Securities Held to Maturity

 

Management segmented debt securities held to maturity, selected methods to estimate losses for each segment, and measured a loss estimate. Agency mortgage-backed securities were assigned no credit loss allowance due to the perceived backing of government sponsored entities. Municipal securities were evaluated for risk of default based on credit rating and remaining term to maturity using Moody’s risk of default factors; Moody’s loss upon default factors were applied to the assumed defaulted principal amounts to estimate the amount for credit loss allowance. The adoption of the ASU resulted in establishment of allowance for credit losses related to debt securities held to maturity of $16 thousand.

 

-50-

 

Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans

 

The Company’s allowance for credit losses on loans represents Management’s estimate of forecasted credit losses in the loan portfolio based on the current expected credit loss (CECL) model. In evaluating credit risk for loans, Management measures loss potential of the carrying value of loans. As described above, payments received on nonaccrual loans may be applied against the principal balance of the loans until such time as full collection of the remaining recorded balance is expected.

 

The following table summarizes the allowance for loan losses/credit losses on loans, chargeoffs and recoveries for the periods indicated:

 

   

For the Three Months

   

For the Six Months

 
   

Ended June 30,

 
   

2020

   

2019

   

2020

   

2019

 
   

($ in thousands)

 

Analysis of the Allowance for Loan Losses/Credit Losses

                         

Balance, end of prior period

  $ 24,804     $ 20,477     $ 19,484     $ 21,351  

Adoption of ASU 2016-13

    -       -       2,017       -  

Balance, beginning of period

    24,804       20,477       21,501       21,351  

Provision for credit losses

    -       -       4,300       -  

Loans charged off

                               

Commercial

    -       (48 )     (178 )     (71 )

Consumer installment and other

    (804 )     (925 )     (2,199 )     (2,293 )

Total chargeoffs

    (804 )     (973 )     (2,377 )     (2,364 )

Recoveries of loans previously charged off

                               

Commercial

    93       123       236       216  

Commercial real estate

    12       14       25       26  

Consumer installment and other

    424       476       844       888  

Total recoveries

    529       613       1,105       1,130  

Net loan losses

    (275 )     (360 )     (1,272 )     (1,234 )

Balance, end of period

  $ 24,529     $ 20,117     $ 24,529     $ 20,117  
                                 

Net loan losses as a percentage of average total loans (annualized)

    0.09 %     0.12 %     0.22 %     0.21 %

 

The Company's allowance for credit losses on loans is maintained at a level considered adequate to provide for expected losses based on historical loss rates adjusted for current and expected conditions over a forecast period. These include conditions unique to individual borrowers, as well as overall credit loss experience, the amount of past due, nonperforming and classified loans, recommendations of regulatory authorities, prevailing and forecasted economic conditions, or credit protection agreements and other factors. Loans that share common risk characteristics are segregated into pools based on common characteristics, which is primarily determined by loan, borrower, or collateral type. Historical loss rates are determined for each pool. Loans that do not share risk characteristics with other loans in the pools are evaluated individually. See Note 2 to the unaudited consolidated financial statements for additional information.

 

   

Allowance for Credit Losses

 
   

For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2020

 
                                   

Consumer

         
           

Commercial

           

Residential

   

Installment

         
   

Commercial

   

Real Estate

   

Construction

   

Real Estate

   

and Other

   

Total

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Allowance for credit losses:

                                               

Balance at beginning of period

  $ 8,336     $ 4,753     $ 107     $ 70     $ 11,538     $ 24,804  

(Reversal) provision

    (357 )     (142 )     (100 )     (13 )     612       -  

Chargeoffs

    -       -       -       -       (804 )     (804 )

Recoveries

    93       12       -       -       424       529  

Total allowance for credit losses

  $ 8,072     $ 4,623     $ 7     $ 57     $ 11,770     $ 24,529  

 

 

-51-

 

 

   

Allowance for Credit Losses

 
   

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2020

 
                                   

Consumer

                 
           

Commercial

           

Residential

   

Installment

                 
   

Commercial

   

Real Estate

   

Construction

   

Real Estate

   

and Other

   

Unallocated

   

Total

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Allowance for credit losses:

                                                       

Balance at beginning of period, prior to adoption of ASU 2016-13

  $ 4,959     $ 4,064     $ 109     $ 206     $ 6,445     $ 3,701     $ 19,484  

Impact of adopting ASU 2016-13

    3,385       618       (31 )     (132 )     1,878       (3,701 )     2,017  

Adjusted beginning balance

    8,344       4,682       78       74       8,323       -       21,501  

(Reversal) provision

    (330 )     (84 )     (71 )     (17 )     4,802       -       4,300  

Chargeoffs

    (178 )     -       -       -       (2,199 )     -       (2,377 )

Recoveries

    236       25       -       -       844       -       1,105  

Total allowance for credit losses

  $ 8,072     $ 4,623     $ 7     $ 57     $ 11,770     $ -     $ 24,529  

 

 

Management considers the $24.5 million allowance for credit losses on loans to be adequate as a reserve against current expected credit losses in the loan portfolio as of June 30, 2020.

 

See Note 4 to the unaudited consolidated financial statements for additional information related to the loan portfolio, loan portfolio credit risk, allowance for credit losses on loans and other real estate owned.

 

Asset/Liability and Market Risk Management

 

Asset/liability management involves the evaluation, monitoring and management of interest rate risk, market risk, liquidity and funding. The fundamental objective of the Company's management of assets and liabilities is to maximize its economic value while maintaining adequate liquidity and a conservative level of interest rate risk.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Interest rate risk is a significant market risk affecting the Company. Many factors affect the Company’s exposure to interest rates, such as general economic and financial conditions, customer preferences, historical pricing relationships, and re-pricing characteristics of financial instruments. Financial instruments may mature or re-price at different times. Financial instruments may re-price at the same time but by different amounts. Short-term and long-term market interest rates may change by different amounts. The timing and amount of cash flows of various financial instruments may change as interest rates change. In addition, the changing levels of interest rates may have an impact on loan demand and demand for various deposit products.

 

The Company’s earnings are affected not only by general economic conditions, but also by the monetary and fiscal policies of the United States government and its agencies, particularly the FOMC. The monetary policies of the FOMC can influence the overall growth of loans, investment securities, and deposits and the level of interest rates earned on loans and investment securities and paid for deposits and other borrowings. The nature and impact of future changes in monetary policies are generally not predictable.

 

Management attempts to manage interest rate risk while enhancing the net interest margin and net interest income. At times, depending on expected increases or decreases in market interest rates, the relationship between long and short-term interest rates, market conditions and competitive factors, Management may adjust the Company's interest rate risk position. The Company's results of operations and net portfolio values remain subject to changes in interest rates and to fluctuations in the difference between long and short-term interest rates.

 

Management monitors the Company’s interest rate risk using a purchased simulation model, which is periodically validated using supervisory guidance issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, SR 11-7 “Guidance on Model Risk Management.” Management measures its exposure to interest rate risk using both a static and dynamic composition of financial instruments. Within the static composition simulation, cash flows are assumed redeployed into like financial instruments at prevailing rates and yields. Within the dynamic composition simulation, Management makes assumptions regarding the expected change in the volume of financial instruments given the assumed change in market interest rates. Both simulations are used to measure expected changes in net interest income assuming various levels of change in market interest rates.

 

The Company’s asset and liability position was slightly “asset sensitive” at June 30, 2020, depending on the interest rate assumptions applied to each simulation model. An “asset sensitive” position results in a slightly larger change in interest income than in interest expense resulting from application of assumed interest rate changes.

 

-52-

 

At June 30, 2020, Management’s most recent measurements of estimated changes in net interest income were:

 

Static Simulation (balance sheet composition unchanged):

Assumed Immediate Parallel Shift in Interest Rates  -1.00% 0.00%  +1.00% 
First Year Change in Net Interest Income -7.90%  0.00% +6.20%

 

Dynamic Simulation (balance sheet composition changes):

Assumed Change in Interest Rates Over 1 Year -1.00%  0.00%  +1.00%
First Year Change in Net Interest Income -3.80% 0.00%

+1.90%

 

Simulation estimates depend on, and will change with, the size and mix of the actual and projected composition of financial instruments at the time of each simulation.

 

The Company does not currently engage in trading activities or use derivative instruments to manage interest rate risk, even though such activities may be permitted with the approval of the Company's Board of Directors.

 

Market Risk - Equity Markets

 

Equity price risk can affect the Company. Preferred or common stock holdings, as permitted by banking regulations, can fluctuate in value. Changes in value of preferred or common stock holdings are recognized in the Company's income statement.

 

Fluctuations in the Company's common stock price can impact the Company's financial results in several ways. First, the Company has at times repurchased and retired its common stock; the market price paid to retire the Company's common stock affects the level of the Company's shareholders' equity, cash flows and shares outstanding. Second, the Company's common stock price impacts the number of dilutive equivalent shares used to compute diluted earnings per share. Third, fluctuations in the Company's common stock price can motivate holders of options to purchase Company common stock through the exercise of such options thereby increasing the number of shares outstanding and potentially adding volatility to the book tax provision. Finally, the amount of compensation expense and tax deductions associated with share based compensation fluctuates with changes in and the volatility of the Company's common stock price.

 

Market Risk - Other

 

Market values of loan collateral can directly impact the level of loan chargeoffs and the provision for credit losses. The financial condition and liquidity of debtors issuing bonds and debtors whose mortgages or other obligations are securitized can directly impact the credit quality of the Company’s investment securities portfolio requiring the Company to establish or increase reserves for credit losses. Other types of market risk, such as foreign currency exchange risk, are not significant in the normal course of the Company's business activities.

 

Liquidity and Funding

 

The objective of liquidity management is to manage cash flow and liquidity reserves so that they are adequate to fund the Company's operations and meet obligations and other commitments on a timely basis and at a reasonable cost. The Company achieves this objective through the selection of asset and liability maturity mixes that it believes best meet its needs. The Company's liquidity position is enhanced by its ability to raise additional funds as needed by selling debt securities available-for-sale or borrowing in the wholesale markets.

 

In recent years, the Company's deposit base has provided the majority of the Company's funding requirements. This relatively stable and low-cost source of funds, along with shareholders' equity, provided 98% of funding for average total assets in the six months ended June 30, 2020 and the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The stability of the Company’s funding from customer deposits is in part reliant on the confidence clients have in the Company. The Company places a very high priority in maintaining this confidence through conservative credit and capital management practices and by maintaining an appropriate level of liquidity.

 

Liquidity is further provided by assets such as balances held at the Federal Reserve Bank, investment securities, and amortizing loans. The Company's investment securities portfolio provides a substantial secondary source of liquidity. The Company held $4.3 billion in total investment securities at June 30, 2020. Under certain deposit, borrowing and other arrangements, the Company must hold and pledge investment securities as collateral. At June 30, 2020, such collateral requirements totaled approximately $869 million.

 

The Bank funded $249 million in PPP loans by crediting loan proceeds to the borrower’s deposit accounts. The Federal Reserve Bank established the Paycheck Protection Program Liquidity Facility (“PPPLF”) to provide funding for eligible firms extending PPP loans. Under the PPPLF, the Bank must pledge PPP loans as collateral for PPPLF borrowings. Principal reductions on the pledged PPP loans must immediately result in principal reduction of the PPPLF borrowing.

 

-53-

 

Liquidity risk can result from the mismatching of asset and liability cash flows, or from disruptions in the financial markets. The Company performs liquidity stress tests on a periodic basis to evaluate the sustainability of its liquidity. Under the stress testing, the Company assumes outflows of funds increase beyond expected levels. Measurement of such heightened outflows considers the composition of the Company’s deposit base, including any concentration of deposits, non-deposit funding such as short-term borrowings, and unfunded lending commitments. The Company evaluates its stock of highly liquid assets to meet the assumed higher levels of outflows. Highly liquid assets include cash and amounts due from other banks from daily transaction settlements, reduced by branch cash needs and Federal Reserve Bank reserve requirements, and investment securities based on regulatory risk-weighting guidelines. Based on the results of the most recent liquidity stress test, Management is satisfied with the liquidity condition of the Bank and the Company. However, no assurance can be given the Bank or Company will not experience a period of reduced liquidity.

 

Management continually monitors the Company’s cash levels. Loan demand from credit worthy borrowers will be dictated by economic and competitive conditions. The Company aggressively solicits non-interest bearing demand deposits and money market checking deposits, which are the least sensitive to changes in interest rates. The growth of these deposit balances is subject to heightened competition, the success of the Company's sales efforts, delivery of superior customer service, new regulations and market conditions. The Company does not aggressively solicit higher-costing time deposits. Changes in interest rates, most notably rising interest rates, could impact deposit volumes. Depending on economic conditions, interest rate levels, liquidity management and a variety of other conditions, deposit growth may be used to fund loans or purchase investment securities. However, due to possible volatility in economic conditions, competition and political uncertainty, loan demand and levels of customer deposits are not certain. Shareholder dividends are expected to continue subject to the Board's discretion and continuing evaluation of capital levels, earnings, asset quality and other factors.

 

Westamerica Bancorporation ("Parent Company") is a separate entity apart from the Bank and must provide for its own liquidity. In addition to its operating expenses, the Parent Company is responsible for the payment of dividends declared for its shareholders, and interest and principal on any outstanding debt. The Parent Company currently has no debt. Substantially all of the Parent Company's revenues are obtained from subsidiary dividends and service fees.

 

The Bank’s dividends paid to the Parent Company, proceeds from the exercise of stock options, and Parent Company cash balances provided adequate cash for the Parent Company to pay shareholder dividends of $22 million and $44 million in the six months ended June 30, 2020 and the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, respectively, and retire common stock in the amount of $9.9 million and $488 thousand, respectively. Payment of dividends to the Parent Company by the Bank is limited under California and Federal laws. The Company believes these regulatory dividend restrictions will not have an impact on the Parent Company's ability to meet its ongoing cash obligations.

 

Capital Resources

 

The Company has historically generated high levels of earnings, which provide a means of accumulating capital. The Company's net income as a percentage of average shareholders' equity (“return on equity” or “ROE”) has been 10.4% in the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 11.9% in the year ended December 31, 2019. The Company also raises capital as employees exercise stock options. Capital raised through the exercise of stock options was $2.8 million in the three months ended June 30, 2020 and $14 million in the year ended December 31, 2019.

 

The Company paid common dividends totaling $22 million in the six months ended June 30, 2020 and $44 million in the year ended December 31, 2019, which represent dividends per common share of $0.82 and $1.63, respectively. The Company's earnings have historically exceeded dividends paid to shareholders. The amount of earnings in excess of dividends provides the Company resources to finance growth and maintain appropriate levels of shareholders' equity. In the absence of profitable growth opportunities, the Company has at times repurchased and retired its common stock as another means to return earnings to shareholders. The Company repurchased and retired 193 thousand shares valued at 9.9 million in the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 8 thousand shares valued at $488 thousand in the year ended December 31, 2019.

 

The Company's primary capital resource is shareholders' equity, which was $808 million at June 30, 2020 compared with $731 million at December 31, 2019. The Company's ratio of equity to total assets was 12.5% at June 30, 2020 and 13.0% at December 31, 2019.

 

-54-

 

The Company performs capital stress tests on a periodic basis to evaluate the sustainability of its capital. Under the stress testing, the Company assumes various scenarios such as deteriorating economic and operating conditions, unanticipated asset devaluations, and significant operational lapses. The Company measures the impact of these scenarios on its earnings and capital. Based on the results of the most recent stress tests, Management is satisfied with the capital condition of the Bank and the Company. However, no assurance can be given the Bank or Company will not experience a period of reduced earnings or a reduction in capital from unanticipated events and circumstances.

 

Capital to Risk-Adjusted Assets

 

The capital ratios for the Company and the Bank under current regulatory capital standards are presented in the tables below, on the dates indicated.

 

                           

To Be

 
                           

Well-capitalized

 
                   

Required for

   

Under Prompt

 
   

At June 30, 2020

   

Capital Adequacy

   

Corrective Action

 
   

Company

   

Bank

   

Purposes

   

Regulations (Bank)

 
                                 

Common Equity Tier I Capital

    14.28 %     11.11 %     7.00 %     6.50 %

Tier I Capital

    14.28 %     11.11 %     8.50 %     8.00 %

Total Capital

    14.88 %     11.86 %     10.50 %     10.00 %

Leverage Ratio

    9.92 %     7.69 %     4.00 %     5.00 %

 

 

 

                           

To Be

 
                           

Well-capitalized

 
                   

Required for

   

Under Prompt

 
   

At December 31, 2019

   

Capital Adequacy

   

Corrective Action

 
   

Company

   

Bank

   

Purposes

   

Regulations (Bank)

 
                                 

Common Equity Tier I Capital

    16.22 %     11.80 %     7.00 %     6.50 %

Tier I Capital

    16.22 %     11.80 %     8.50 %     8.00 %

Total Capital

    16.83 %     12.58 %     10.50 %     10.00 %

Leverage Ratio

    10.50 %     7.60 %     4.00 %     5.00 %

 

In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued an update to the accounting standards for credit losses known as the "Current Expected Credit Losses" (CECL) methodology, which replaced the existing incurred loss methodology for certain financial assets. The Company adopted the CECL methodology effective January 1, 2020, which involved an implementing accounting entry to retained earnings on a net-of-tax basis. The adoption of the CECL methodology did not have a material adverse day-one impact to capital ratios and the Company did not adopt the phase in regulatory capital relief. See Note 2 to unaudited consolidated financial statements, “Recently Adopted Accounting Standards” for more information on the CECL methodology.

 

PPP loans are zero percent risk weighted for regulatory capital purposes; average PPP loans of $133 million did not affect regulatory capital ratios, other than an insignificant impact on the Leverage ratio. To the extent funding of PPP loans is through excess cash balances or PPPLF borrowings, the Leverage ratio is unaffected. However, PPP loans funded by increased non-PPPLF borrowings reduces the leverage ratio.

 

The Company and the Bank routinely project capital levels by analyzing forecasted earnings, credit quality, shareholder dividends, asset volumes, share repurchase activity, stock option exercise proceeds, and other factors. Based on current capital projections, the Company and the Bank expect to maintain regulatory capital levels in excess of the minimum required to be considered well-capitalized under the prompt corrective action framework while continuing to pay quarterly dividends to shareholders. No assurance can be given that changes in capital management plans will not occur.

 

-55-

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

The Company does not currently engage in trading activities or use derivative instruments to control interest rate risk, even though such activities may be permitted with the approval of the Company’s Board of Directors.

 

Credit risk and interest rate risk are the most significant market risks affecting the Company, and equity price risk can also affect the Company’s financial results. These risks are described in the preceding sections regarding “Loan Portfolio Credit Risk,” and “Asset/Liability and Market Risk Management.” Other types of market risk, such as foreign currency exchange risk and commodity price risk, are not significant in the normal course of the Company’s business activities.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

The Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s “disclosure controls and procedures,” as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as of June 30, 2020.

 

Based upon their evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that material information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported as and when required and that such information is communicated to the Company’s management, including the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosures. The evaluation did not identify any change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended June 30, 2020 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

Due to the nature of its business, the Company is subject to various threatened or filed legal cases. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries is a party to any material pending legal proceeding, nor is their property the subject of any material pending legal proceeding, other than ordinary routine legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of the Company’s business. Based on the advice of legal counsel, the Company does not expect such cases will have a material, adverse effect on its business, financial position or results of operations. Legal liabilities are accrued when obligations become probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

 

The Company’s Form 10-K as of December 31, 2019 includes detailed disclosure about the risks faced by the Company’s business. The following is an update on risk factors that have changed since the Form 10-K was filed.

 

The COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic Will Have an Uncertain Impact on the Company's Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic caused escalating infections in the United States beginning in the first quarter of 2020 that continued through the second quarter of 2020 and may continue for some time. The spread of the outbreak has disrupted the United States economy including banking and other financial activity in the market areas in which the Company and its banking subsidiary, Westamerica Bank (the "Bank"), operate.  Regions and states of the United States of America have implemented varying degrees of "stay at home" directives in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus. On March 19, 2020, the Governor of the State of California ordered all individuals living in the State of California to stay within their residence to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus and many businesses have suspended or reduced business activities. The California "stay at home" directive excludes essential businesses, including banks, and the Bank remains open and fully operational. These "stay at home" directives have, however, significantly reduced economic activity in the United States and the State of California. In the second quarter of 2020 the “stay at home” directives were gradually lifted in varying stages in counties of the State of California. Counties with high infection rates have delayed reopening and restrictions on certain economic activity remains. California-based initial claims for unemployment have risen considerably during the second quarter of 2020.

 

-56-

 

The Bank's deposits are exclusively sourced within California and its loans are primarily to borrowers domiciled within California. Demand for the Bank's products and services, such as loans and deposits, could be affected as a result of the decline in economic activity within the state. 

 

The Bank's investment portfolio contains bonds for which the source of repayment is domestic mortgage repayments, domestic municipalities throughout the United States, and domestic and global corporations. The value of the Bank's investment portfolio may decline if, for example, the general economy deteriorates, inflation increases, credit ratings decline, the issuers’ financial condition deteriorates or the liquidity for debt securities declines.

 

In response to the pandemic, the Federal Reserve has engaged significant levels of monetary policy to provide liquidity and credit facilities to the financial markets. On March 15, 2020, the Federal Open Market Committee ("FOMC") reduced the target range for the federal funds rate to 0 to 0.25 percent; relatedly, the FOMC reduced the interest rate paid on deposit balances to 0.10 percent effective March 16, 2020, all of which may negatively impact net interest income. The Bank maintains deposit balances at the Federal Reserve Bank; the amount that earns interest is identified in the Company's financial statements as "interest-bearing cash".

 

In response to the pandemic, the United States federal government enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the "CARES Act") on March 27, 2020, providing an estimated $2 trillion fiscal stimulus to the United States economy. The CARES Act established the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) with $350 billion to provide businesses with federally guaranteed loans to support payroll and certain operating expenses. The loans were guaranteed by the United States Small Business Administration (“SBA”) and funded through banks. In April 2020, the PPP program was expanded with an additional $310 billion. At June 30, 2020, the Bank funded $249 million in government guaranteed PPP loans which meaningfully increased interest-earning assets and related interest and fee income.

 

The extent of the spread of the coronavirus, its ultimate containment and its effects on the economy and the Company are uncertain at this time. The effectiveness of the Federal Reserve Bank's monetary policies and the federal government's fiscal policies in stimulating the United States economy is uncertain at this time.

 

Management expects the Company's net interest margin and non-interest income to decline and credit-related losses to increase for an uncertain period given the decline in economic activity occurring due to the coronavirus. The amount of impact on the Company's financial results is uncertain.

 

In addition, the Company's future success and profitability substantially depends upon the skills and experience of its executive officers and directors, many of whom have held positions with the Company for many years. The unanticipated loss or unavailability of key employees due to the outbreak could adversely affect the Company's ability to operate its business or execute its business strategy.

 

Any one or a combination of the factors identified above, or other factors, could materially adversely affect the Company's business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

The Recent Decline in Oil Prices Could Have an Impact on the Company's Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Oil prices have declined considerably in the first half of 2020. The decline in oil prices could negatively affect the financial results of industrial sector-based and energy sector-based corporate issuers of corporate bonds owned by the Company. The Company’s corporate debt securities include 14 issuers in industrial and energy sectors with aggregate amortized cost of $275.6 million and fair value of $287.4 million at June 30, 2020. These securities continue to be investment grade rated by a major rating agency.

 

The Company’s participation in the SBA PPP loan program exposes it to risks of noncompliance with the PPP and litigation, which could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The Company is a participating lender in the PPP. The SBA guarantees 100% of loans funded under the PPP. Loan proceeds used for eligible payroll and certain other operating costs are forgiven with repayment of loan principal and accrued interest made by the SBA. There is some ambiguity in the laws, rules and guidance regarding the operation of the PPP, which exposes the Company to potential risks relating to noncompliance with the PPP. Any financial liability, litigation costs or reputational damage caused by PPP related litigation or regulatory enforcement could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, the Company may be exposed to credit risk on PPP loans if the SBA determines that there is a deficiency in the manner in which the loan was originated, funded, or serviced. If the SBA identifies a deficiency, it could deny its liability under the guaranty, reduce the amount of the guaranty, or, if it has already paid under the guaranty, seek recovery of any loss related to the deficiency from the Company.

 

-57-

 

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

 

(a) None

(b) None

(c) Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

The table below sets forth the information with respect to purchases made by or on behalf of Westamerica Bancorporation or any “affiliated purchaser”, as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), of common stock during the quarter ended June 30, 2020.

 

   

2020

 

Period

 

(a) Total Number of Shares Purchased

   

(b) Average Price Paid per Share

   

(c) Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs

   

(d) Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs

 
   

(In thousands, except price paid)

 

April 1 through April 30

    -     $ -       -       1,570  

May 1 through May 31

    13       52.27       13       1,557  

June 1 through June 30

    -               -       1,557  

Total

    13     $ 52.27       13       1,557  

 

The Company repurchases shares of its common stock in the open market on a discretionary basis to optimize the Company’s use of equity capital and enhance shareholder value and with the intention of lessening the dilutive impact of issuing new shares under stock option plans, and other ongoing requirements.

 

Shares were repurchased during the period April 1, 2020 through June 30, 2020 pursuant to a program approved by the Board of Directors on July 25, 2019 authorizing the purchase of up to 1,750 thousand shares of the Company’s common stock from time to time prior to September 1, 2020.

 

Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities

 

None

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 5. Other Information

 

None

 

-58-

 

Item 6. Exhibits

 

Exhibit No.  Description of Exhibit
   
Exhibit 31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
   
Exhibit 31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
   
Exhibit 32.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   
Exhibit 32.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
   

Exhibit 101.INS

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

   
Exhibit 101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
   
Exhibit 101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
   
Exhibit 101.DEF  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definitions Linkbase Document
   
Exhibit 101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
   
Exhibit 101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

 

-59-

 

 

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.

 

WESTAMERICA BANCORPORATION

(Registrant)

 

 

 

/s/ Jesse Leavitt                                                                           

Jesse Leavitt

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Chief Accounting Officer)

 

Date: August 5, 2020

 

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