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Western New England Bancorp, Inc. - Quarter Report: 2014 March (Form 10-Q)

a50857703.htm
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D. C. 20549
______________________

FORM 10-Q

 
x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE 
  SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 
 
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2014

OR
 
o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE 
  SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 
 
For the transition period from _____ to _____.


Commission file number 001-16767

Westfield Financial, Inc.
 (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Massachusetts
73-1627673
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

141 Elm Street, Westfield, Massachusetts 01086
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(413) 568-1911
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)


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

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (Check one):
 
 
Large accelerated filer o
 
Accelerated filer x
       
 
Non-accelerated filer o
 
Smaller reporting company o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o  No x

At May 1, 2014, the registrant had 19,522,097 shares of common stock, $.01 par value, issued and outstanding.
 
 
 

 
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
       
 
     
     
Page
       
 
 
     
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
   
       
Item 1.
Financial Statements of Westfield Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries
   
       
   
       
     
 
 
       
     
 
 
       
     
 
 
       
     
 
 
       
   
       
   
   
       
 
       
 
       
       
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
   
       
 
       
 
       
 
       
 
       
 
       
 
       
 
 
 
 

 
 
FORWARD–LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
We may, from time to time, make written or oral “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements contained in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), our reports to shareholders and in other communications by us. This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains “forward-looking statements,” which may be identified by the use of such words as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “estimate,” “potential” and other similar expressions.  Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, estimates with respect to our financial condition, results of operation and business that are subject to various factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from these estimates.  These factors include, but are not limited to:
 
 
changes in the interest rate environment that reduce margins;
 
 
changes in the regulatory environment;
 
 
the highly competitive industry and market area in which we operate;
 
 
general economic conditions, either nationally or regionally, resulting in, among other things, a deterioration in credit quality;
 
 
changes in business conditions and inflation;
 
 
changes in credit market conditions;
 
 
changes in the securities markets which affect investment management revenues;
 
 
increases in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation deposit insurance premiums and assessments could adversely affect our financial condition;
 
 
changes in technology used in the banking business;
 
 
the soundness of other financial services institutions which may adversely affect our credit risk;
 
 
certain of our intangible assets may become impaired in the future;
 
 
our controls and procedures may fail or be circumvented;
 
 
new line of business or new products and services, which may subject us to additional risks;
 
 
changes in key management personnel which may adversely impact our operations;
 
 
the effect on our operations of recent legislative and regulatory initiatives that were or may be enacted in response to the ongoing financial crisis;
 
 
severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism and other external events which could significantly impact our business; and
 
 
other factors detailed from time to time in our Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings.
 
Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in these forward-looking statements.  You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.  We do not undertake any obligation to republish revised forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
 
 
i

 
 
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - UNAUDITED
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
March 31,
   
December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
ASSETS
           
CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS
  $ 12,149     $ 14,112  
FEDERAL FUNDS SOLD
    93       521  
INTEREST-BEARING  DEPOSITS AND OTHER SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
    9,128       5,109  
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
    21,370       19,742  
                 
SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE – AT FAIR VALUE
    233,899       243,204  
SECURITIES HELD TO MATURITY  (Fair value of $283,672 and $282,555 at March 31, 2014 and
December 31,2013, respectively)
    292,019       295,013  
FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF BOSTON AND OTHER RESTRICTED STOCK - AT COST
    15,631       15,631  
LOANS - Net of allowance for loan losses of $7,567 and $7,459 at March 31, 2014 and  December 31,
2013, respectively
    640,673       629,968  
PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT, Net
    11,004       10,995  
ACCRUED INTEREST RECEIVABLE
    4,120       4,201  
BANK-OWNED LIFE INSURANCE
    47,558       47,179  
DEFERRED TAX ASSET, Net
    6,697       6,334  
OTHER ASSETS
    2,045       4,574  
TOTAL ASSETS
  $ 1,275,016     $ 1,276,841  
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
               
LIABILITIES:
               
DEPOSITS :
               
Noninterest-bearing
  $ 130,842     $ 145,040  
Interest-bearing
    675,853       672,072  
Total deposits
    806,695       817,112  
                 
SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
    58,460       48,197  
LONG-TERM DEBT
    248,568       248,377  
SECURITIES PENDING SETTLEMENT
    195       299  
OTHER LIABILITIES
    9,512       8,712  
TOTAL LIABILITIES
    1,123,430       1,122,697  
                 
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
               
Preferred stock - $.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding at  March 31, 2014 and
December 31, 2013
    -       -  
Common stock - $.01 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized, 19,784,743 shares issued and outstanding
at March 31, 2014; 20,140,669 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2013
    197       201  
Additional paid-in capital
    119,233       121,860  
Unearned compensation - ESOP
    (7,870 )     (8,003 )
Unearned compensation - Equity Incentive Plan
    (162 )     (187 )
Retained earnings
    43,888       43,248  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (3,700 )     (2,975 )
Total shareholders' equity
    151,586       154,144  
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
  $ 1,275,016     $ 1,276,841  
See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 
1

 
 
WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET INCOME – UNAUDITED
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
 
   
Three Months
 
   
Ended March 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME:
           
Residential and commercial real estate loans
  $ 5,247     $ 4,995  
Commercial and industrial loans
    1,277       1,241  
Consumer loans
    33       35  
Debt securities, taxable
    3,160       3,716  
Debt securities, tax-exempt
    210       304  
Equity securities
    36       37  
Other investments - at cost
    65       19  
Federal funds sold, interest-bearing deposits and other short-term investments
    6       2  
Total interest and dividend income
    10,034       10,349  
INTEREST EXPENSE:
               
Deposits
    1,291       1,387  
Long-term debt
    1,011       1,258  
Short-term borrowings
    77       34  
Total interest expense
    2,379       2,679  
Net interest and dividend income
    7,655       7,670  
PROVISION (CREDIT) FOR LOAN LOSSES
    100       (235 )
Net interest and dividend income after provision (credit) for loan losses
    7,555       7,905  
                 
NONINTEREST INCOME (LOSS):
               
Service charges and fees
    670       572  
Income from bank-owned life insurance
    379       385  
Loss on prepayment of borrowings
    -       (1,426 )
Gain on sales of securities, net
    29       1,427  
Total noninterest income
    1,078       958  
NONINTEREST EXPENSE:
               
Salaries and employees benefits
    3,778       3,808  
Occupancy
    761       705  
Computer operations
    515       526  
Professional fees
    512       510  
Other real estate owned expense
    -       22  
FDIC insurance assessment
    165       161  
Other
    803       783  
Total noninterest expense
    6,534       6,515  
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
    2,099       2,348  
INCOME TAX PROVISION
    451       566  
NET INCOME
  $ 1,648     $ 1,782  
                 
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:
               
Basic earnings per share
  $ 0.09     $ 0.08  
Weighted average shares outstanding
    18,812,795       21,102,021  
Diluted earnings per share
  $ 0.09     $ 0.08  
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding
    18,812,795       21,102,075  
See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 
2

 
 
WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) – UNAUDITED
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
             
Net income
  $ 1,648     $ 1,782  
                 
Other comprehensive income (loss):
               
Unrealized (loss) gains on securities:
               
Unrealized holding (loss) gains on available for sale securities
    1,277       (4,418 )
Reclassification adjustment for gains realized in income
    (29 )     (1,427 )
Amortization of net unrealized loss on securities transferred from available for sale to
held to maturity
    12       -  
Net unrealized gain (loss)
    1,260       (5,845 )
Tax effect
    (434 )     2,007  
Net-of-tax amount
    826       (3,838 )
                 
Derivative instruments:
               
Change in fair value of derivatives used for cash flow hedges
    (2,390 )     -  
Reclassification adjustment for loss realized in interest expense
    46       -  
Tax effect
    797       -  
Net-of-tax amount
    (1,547 )     -  
                 
Defined benefit pension plans:
               
Reclassification adjustments (1) :
               
Actuarial loss
    -       12  
Transition asset
    (5 )     (3 )
Net adjustments pertaining to defined benefit plans
    (5 )     9  
Tax effect
    1       (3 )
Net-of-tax amount
    (4 )     6  
                 
Other comprehensive loss
    (725 )     (3,832 )
                 
Comprehensive income (loss)
  $ 923     $ (2,050 )
                 
See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 (1) Amounts represent the reclassification of defined benefit plans amortization and have been recognized as a component of salaries and benefit expense.
 
 
3

 
 
WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - UNAUDITED
THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2014 AND 2013
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)
 
   
Common Stock
                                     
   
Shares
   
Par
Value
   
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
   
Unearned
Compensation
- ESOP
   
Unearned
Compensation
- Equity
Incentive Plan
   
Retained
Earnings
   
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
   
Total
 
                                                 
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2012
    22,843,722     $ 228     $ 144,718     $ (8,553 )   $ (265 )   $ 42,364     $ 10,695     $ 189,187  
Comprehensive income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       1,782       (3,832 )     (2,050 )
Common stock held by ESOP committed to be released (81,803 shares)
    -       -       14       137       -       -       -       151  
Share-based compensation - stock options
    -       -       13       -       -       -       -       13  
Share-based compensation - equity incentive plan
    -       -       -       -       25       -       -       25  
Excess tax benefit from equity incentive plan
    -       -       1       -       -       -       -       1  
Common stock repurchased
    (941,080 )     (9 )     (7,069 )     -       -       -       -       (7,078 )
Cash dividends declared ($0.06 per share)
    -       -       -       -       -       (1,269 )     -       (1,269 )
BALANCE AT MARCH, 31 2013
    21,902,642     $ 219     $ 137,677     $ (8,416 )   $ (240 )   $ 42,877     $ 6,863     $ 178,980  
                                                                 
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2013
    20,140,669     $ 201     $ 121,860     $ (8,003 )   $ (187 )   $ 43,248     $ (2,975 )   $ 154,144  
Comprehensive income (loss)
    -       -       -       -       -       1,648       (725 )     923  
Common stock held by ESOP committed to be released (79,345 shares)
    -       -       13       133       -       -       -       146  
Share-based compensation - equity incentive plan
    -       -       -       -       25       -       -       25  
Excess tax benefit from equity incentive plan
    -       -       1       -       -       -       -       1  
Common stock repurchased
    (355,926 )     (4 )     (2,641 )     -       -       -       -       (2,645 )
Return of dividends issued in connection with equity incentive plan
    -       -       -       -       -       121       -       121  
Cash dividends declared ($0.06 per share)
    -       -       -       -       -       (1,129 )     -       (1,129 )
BALANCE AT MARCH, 31 2014
    19,784,743     $ 197     $ 119,233     $ (7,870 )   $ (162 )   $ 43,888     $ (3,700 )   $ 151,586  
See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements
 
 
 
4

 
 
WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - UNAUDITED
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
           
Net income
  $ 1,648     $ 1,782  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Provision (credit) for loan losses
    100       (235 )
Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment
    281       260  
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities and mortgage loans
    1,045       1,128  
Net amortization of premiums on modified debt
    156       155  
Share-based compensation expense
    25       38  
ESOP expense
    146       151  
Excess tax benefits from equity incentive plan
    (1 )     (1 )
Net gains on sales of securities
    (29 )     (1,427 )
Loss on sale of other real estate owned
    -       6  
Loss on prepayment of borrowings
    -       1,426  
Deferred income tax benefit
    -       (3 )
Income from bank-owned life insurance
    (379 )     (385 )
Changes in assets and liabilities:
               
Accrued interest receivable
    81       125  
Other assets
    169       580  
Other liabilities
    207       (95 )
Net cash provided by operating activities
    3,449       3,505  
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Securities, held to maturity:
               
Proceeds from calls, maturities, and principal collections
    2,406       -  
Securities, available for sale:
               
Purchases
    (12,170 )     (106,632 )
Proceeds from sales
    13,003       77,163  
Proceeds from calls, maturities, and principal collections
    9,323       29,298  
Purchase of residential mortgages
    (7,468 )     (13,089 )
Loan originations and principal payments, net
    (2,750 )     11,726  
Purchase of Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston stock
    -       (1,004 )
Proceeds from redemption of Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston stock
    -       31  
Proceeds from sale of other real estate owned
    -       958  
Purchases of premises and equipment
    (313 )     (310 )
Proceeds from sale of premises and equipment
    23       -  
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    2,054       (1,859 )
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Net (decrease) increase in deposits
    (10,417 )     18,783  
Net change in short-term borrowings
    10,263       (14,107 )
Repayment of long-term debt
    -       (22,876 )
Proceeds from long-term debt
    35       32,034  
Return of dividends issued in connection with equity incentive plan
    121       -  
Cash dividends paid
    (1,129 )     (1,269 )
Common stock repurchased
    (2,749 )     (6,790 )
Excess tax shortfalls benefits in connection with equity incentive plan
    1       1  
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
    (3,875 )     5,776  
                 
NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
    1,628       7,422  
Beginning of period
    19,742       11,761  
End of period
  $ 21,370     $ 19,183  
                 
Supplemental cashflow information:
               
Securities reclassified to loan portfolio
  $ 606     $ -  
Interest paid
    2,395       2,695  
Taxes paid
    41       53  
Net cash due to (from) broker for common stock repurchased
    195       (288 )
See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
 
 
 
5

 
 
WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

MARCH 31, 2014

1.  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of OperationsWestfield Financial, Inc. (“Westfield Financial,” “we” or “us”) is a Massachusetts-chartered stock holding company and the parent company of Westfield Bank (the “Bank”), a federally chartered stock savings bank (the “Bank”).

The Bank’s deposits are insured to the limits specified by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”).  The Bank operates 11 branches in western Massachusetts and 1 branch in Granby, Connecticut.  The Bank’s primary source of revenue is income from securities and earnings on loans to small and middle-market businesses and to residential property homeowners.

Elm Street Securities Corporation and WFD Securities Corporation, Massachusetts-chartered security corporations, were formed by Westfield Financial for the primary purpose of holding qualified securities.  WB Real Estate Holdings, LLC, a Massachusetts-chartered limited liability company was formed for the primary purpose of holding real property acquired as security for debts previously contracted by the Bank.

Principles of Consolidation – The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Westfield Financial, the Bank, Elm Street Securities Corporation, WB Real Estate Holdings, LLC and WFD Securities Corporation.  All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Estimates – The preparation of unaudited consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of income and expenses for both at the date of the unaudited consolidated financial statements.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  Estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near-term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses, other-than-temporary impairment of securities, and the valuation of deferred tax assets.

Basis of Presentation – In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of our financial condition as of March 31, 2014, and the results of operations, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the interim periods presented.  The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the year ending December 31, 2014.  Certain information and disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 (the “2013 Annual Report”).

Reclassifications - Amounts in the prior period financial statements are reclassified when necessary to conform to the current year presentation.
 
 
6

 
 
2.  EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share represent income available to shareholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted earnings per share reflect additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential shares had been issued, as well as any adjustment to income that would result from the assumed issuance.  Potential common shares that may be issued by us relate solely to outstanding stock options and are determined using the treasury stock method.

Earnings per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 have been computed based on the following:

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
   
(In thousands, except per share data)
 
             
Net income applicable to common stock
  $ 1,648     $ 1,782  
                 
Average number of common shares issued
    19,933       22,311  
Less: Average unallocated ESOP Shares
    (1,120 )     (1,202 )
Less: Average ungranted equity incentive plan shares
    -       (7 )
                 
Average number of common shares outstanding used
               
to calculate basic earnings per common share
    18,813       21,102  
                 
Effect of dilutive stock options
    -       -  
                 
Average number of common shares outstanding used
               
to calculate diluted earnings per common share
    18,813       21,102  
                 
Basic earnings per share
  $ 0.09     $ 0.08  
                 
Diluted earnings per share
  $ 0.09     $ 0.08  
                 
Antidilutive shares (1)
    -       1,661  
___________________
(1)
 
Shares outstanding but not included in the computation of earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive, meaning the exercise price of such options exceeded the market value of the Company’s common stock.  At March 31, 2014, there were no stock options outstanding.
 
 
7

 
 
3.  COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/LOSS

Accounting principles generally require that recognized revenue, expenses, gains and losses be included in net income.  Although certain changes in assets and liabilities are reported as a separate component of the equity section of the balance sheet, such items, along with net income, are components of comprehensive income.

The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss included in shareholders’ equity are as follows:

   
March 31,
2014
   
December 31,
2013
 
   
(In thousands)
 
             
Net unrealized loss on securities available for sale
  $ (1,162 )   $ (2,410 )
Tax effect
    407       837  
Net-of-tax amount
    (755 )     (1,573 )
                 
Net unrealized losses on securities transferred from
               
available-for-sale to held-to-maturity (1)
    (1,720 )     (1,732 )
Tax effect
    595       599  
Net-of-tax amount
    (1,125 )     (1,133 )
                 
Fair value of derivatives used for cash flow hedges
    (589 )     1,755  
Tax effect
    200       (597 )
Net-of-tax amount
    (389 )     1,158  
                 
Unrecognized transition asset pertaining to defined benefit plan
    5       10  
Unrecognized deferred loss pertaining to defined benefit plan
    (2,172 )     (2,172 )
Net adjustments pertaining to defined benefit plans
    (2,167 )     (2,162 )
Tax effect
    736       735  
         Net-of-tax amount
    (1,431 )     (1,427 )
                 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
  $ (3,700 )   $ (2,975 )
_________________________________
               
(1) The net unrealized loss at the date of transfer before tax was $1.5 million for all securities transferred in 2013. The gains or losses on individual securities are amortized through comprehensive income over the remaining life of the security.
 

The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for the periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 by component:
 
   
Securities
   
Derivatives
   
Defined
Benefit Plans
   
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive
(Loss) Income
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Balance at December 31, 2012
  $ 13,253     $ -     $ (2,558 )   $ 10,695  
Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)
    (3,838 )     -       6       (3,832 )
Balance at March 31, 2013
  $ 9,415     $ -     $ (2,552 )   $ 6,863  
                                 
Balance at December 31, 2013
  $ (2,706 )   $ 1,158     $ (1,427 )   $ (2,975 )
Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)
    826       (1,547 )     (4 )     (725 )
Balance at March 31, 2014
  $ (1,880 )   $ (389 )   $ (1,431 )   $ (3,700 )
 
 
8

 
 
4.      SECURITIES

Securities available for sale and held to maturity are summarized as follows:
   
March 31, 2014
 
   
Amortized
Cost
   
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Available for sale securities:
                       
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
  $ 137,860     $ 423     $ (2,848 )   $ 135,435  
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities
    33,806       168       (135 )     33,839  
Corporate bonds
    28,686       808       (129 )     29,365  
State and municipal bonds
    16,501       660       -       17,161  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    10,713       23       (242 )     10,494  
Mutual funds
    6,186       7       (214 )     5,979  
Common and preferred stock
    1,309       317       -       1,626  
                                 
Total available for sale securities
    235,061       2,406       (3,568 )     233,899  
                                 
Held to maturity securities:
                               
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
    174,411       78       (4,533 )     169,956  
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities
    39,501       -       (1,200 )     38,301  
Corporate bonds
    27,350       73       (354 )     27,069  
State and municipal bonds
    7,334       34       (226 )     7,142  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    43,423       12       (2,231 )     41,204  
                                 
Total held to maturity securities
    292,019       197       (8,544 )     283,672  
                                 
Total
  $ 527,080     $ 2,603     $ (12,112 )   $ 517,571  
 
   
December 31, 2013
 
   
Amortized
Cost
   
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Available for sale securities:
                       
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
  $ 135,981     $ 419     $ (4,028 )   $ 132,372  
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities
    46,225       240       (137 )     46,328  
Corporate bonds
    26,716       766       (93 )     27,389  
State and municipal bonds
    18,240       659       (2 )     18,897  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    10,992       18       (310 )     10,700  
Mutual funds
    6,150       8       (239 )     5,919  
Common and preferred stock
    1,310       289       -       1,599  
                                 
Total available for sale securities
    245,614       2,399       (4,809 )     243,204  
                                 
Held to maturity securities:
                               
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
    176,986       -       (6,819 )     170,167  
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities
    39,705       -       (1,391 )     38,314  
Corporate bonds
    27,566       30       (567 )     27,029  
State and municipal bonds
    7,351       5       (345 )     7,011  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    43,405       -       (3,371 )     40,034  
                                 
Total held to maturity securities
    295,013       35       (12,493 )     282,555  
                                 
Total
  $ 540,627     $ 2,434     $ (17,302 )   $ 525,759  
 
 
9

 
 
U.S. government-sponsored and guaranteed mortgage-backed securities are collateralized by both residential and multifamily loans.

Our repurchase agreements and advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (“FHLBB”) are collateralized by government-sponsored enterprise obligations and certain mortgage-backed securities (see Note 7).

The amortized cost and fair value of securities available for sale and held to maturity at March 31, 2014, by maturity, are shown below.  Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain issuers have the right to call or repay obligations.

   
March 31, 2014
 
   
Securities
   
Securities
 
   
Available for Sale
   
Held to Maturity
 
   
Amortized
Cost
   
Fair Value
   
Amortized
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Mortgage-backed securities:
                       
     Due after five years through ten years
  $ 39,206     $ 38,117     $ 45,982     $ 43,823  
     Due after ten years
    132,460       131,157       167,930       164,434  
Total
  $ 171,666     $ 169,274     $ 213,912     $ 208,257  
                                 
Debt securities:
                               
     Due in one year or less
  $ 1,245     $ 1,259     $ -     $ -  
     Due after one year through five years
    32,406       33,181       22,987       22,638  
     Due after five years through ten years
    22,064       22,378       39,578       38,086  
     Due after ten years
    185       202       15,542       14,691  
Total
  $ 55,900     $ 57,020     $ 78,107     $ 75,415  

Gross realized gains and losses on sales of securities available for sale for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
   
(In thousands)
 
             
Gross gains realized
  $ 193     $ 1,442  
Gross losses realized
    (164 )     (15 )
Net gain realized
  $ 29     $ 1,427  

Proceeds from the sale of securities available for sale amounted to $13.0 million and $77.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

The tax provision applicable to net realized gains and losses was $9,000 and $488,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
 
 
10

 
 
Information pertaining to securities with gross unrealized losses at March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous loss position are as follows:

   
March 31, 2014
 
   
Less Than 12 Months
   
Over 12 Months
 
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair Value
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                         
Available for sale:
                       
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
  $ 2,242     $ 112,966     $ 606     $ 10,131  
U.S. government guaranteed  mortgage-backed securities
    135       9,507       -       -  
Corporate bonds
    129       8,217       -       -  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    242       7,258       -       -  
Mutual funds
    66       3,240       148       1,678  
                                 
Total available for sale
    2,814       141,188       754       11,809  
                                 
Held to maturity:
                               
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
    3,730       124,922       803       36,289  
U.S. government guaranteed  mortgage-backed securities
    1,200       38,301       -       -  
Corporate bonds
    354       22,065       -       -  
State and municipal bonds
    226       5,044       -       -  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    1,830       34,107       401       4,568  
                                 
Total held to maturity
    7,340       224,439       1,204       40,857  
                                 
Total
  $ 10,154     $ 365,627     $ 1,958     $ 52,666  
 
 
11

 
 

   
December 31, 2013
 
   
Less Than 12 Months
   
Over 12 Months
 
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair
Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                         
Available for sale:
                       
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
  $ 3,717     $ 118,846     $ 311     $ 2,761  
U.S. government guaranteed  mortgage-backed securities
    137       15,045       -       -  
Corporate bonds
    93       4,659       -       -  
State and municipal bonds
    2       256       -       -  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    310       7,189       -       -  
Mutual funds
    84       3,205       155       1,656  
                                 
Total available for sale
    4,343       149,200       466       4,417  
                                 
Held to maturity:
                               
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities
    5,866       145,438       953       24,729  
U.S. government guaranteed  mortgage-backed securities
    1,391       38,314       -       -  
Corporate bonds
    567       22,059       -       -  
State and municipal bonds
    345       5,852       -       -  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    3,330       38,228       41       1,806  
                                 
Total held to maturity
    11,499       249,891       994       26,535  
                                 
Total
  $ 15,842     $ 399,091     $ 1,460     $ 30,952  


   
March 31, 2014
 
   
Less Than 12 Months
   
Over 12 Months
 
   
Number of
Securities
   
AC Basis
   
Gross
Loss
   
Depreciation
from AC Basis
(%)
   
Number of
Securities
   
AC Basis
   
Gross
Loss
   
Depreciation
from AC Basis
(%)
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
                                                 
Government sponsored mortgage-backed securities
  56     $ 243,860     $ (5,972 )     2.4 %   13     $ 47,829     $ (1,409 )     2.9 %
U.S. government guaranteed  mortgage-backed securities
  8       49,143       (1,335 )     2.7     -       -       -       -  
Government sponsored enterprise obligations
  11       43,437       (2,072 )     4.8     1       4,969       (401 )     8.1  
Corporate Bonds
  13       30,765       (483 )     1.6     -       -       -       -  
State and municipal bonds
  11       5,270       (226 )     4.3     -       -       -       -  
Mutual funds
  1       3,306       (66 )     2.0     1       1,826       (148 )     8.1  

These unrealized losses are the result of changes in interest rates and not credit quality.  Because we do not intend to sell the securities and it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell the investments before recovery of their amortized cost basis, no declines are deemed to be other-than-temporary.
 
 
12

 
 
5.          LOANS AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

Loans consisted of the following amounts:
 
March 31,
   
December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Commercial real estate
  $ 274,131     $ 264,476  
Residential real estate:
               
Residential
    202,759       198,686  
Home equity
    35,890       35,371  
Commercial and industrial
    133,116       135,555  
Consumer
    1,495       2,572  
    Total Loans
    647,391       636,660  
Unearned premiums and deferred loan fees and costs, net
    849       767  
Allowance for loan losses
    (7,567 )     (7,459 )
    $ 640,673     $ 629,968  

During the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, we purchased residential real estate loans aggregating $7.5 million and $13.1 million, respectively.

We have transferred a portion of our originated commercial real estate loans to participating lenders.  The amounts transferred have been accounted for as sales and are therefore not included in our accompanying unaudited consolidated balance sheets.  We share ratably with our participating lenders in any gains or losses that may result from a borrower’s lack of compliance with contractual terms of the loan.  We continue to service the loans on behalf of the participating lenders and, as such, collect cash payments from the borrowers, remit payments (net of servicing fees) to participating lenders and disburse required escrow funds to relevant parties.  At March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, we serviced loans for participants aggregating $16.3 million and $14.3 million, respectively.

Loans are recorded at the principal amount outstanding, adjusted for charge-offs, unearned premiums and deferred loan fees and costs.  Interest on loans is calculated using the effective yield method on daily balances of the principal amount outstanding and is credited to income on the accrual basis to the extent it is deemed collectable.  Our general policy is to discontinue the accrual of interest when principal or interest payments are delinquent 90 days or more based on the contractual terms of the loan, or earlier if the loan is considered impaired.  Any unpaid amounts previously accrued on these loans are reversed from income.  Subsequent cash receipts are applied to the outstanding principal balance or to interest income if, in the judgment of management, collection of the principal balance is not in question.  Loans are returned to accrual status when they become current as to both principal and interest and perform in accordance with contractual terms for a period of at least six months, reducing the concern as to the collectability of principal and interest.  Loan fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred, and the net fee or cost is recognized as an adjustment to interest income over the estimated average lives of the related loans.

The allowance for loan losses is established through provisions for loan losses charged to expense.  Loans are charged-off against the allowance when management believes that the collectability of the principal is unlikely.  Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.

The allowance for loan losses is evaluated on a regular basis by management.  This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available.  The allowance consists of general, allocated, and unallocated components, as further described below.
 
 
13

 
 
General component

The general component of the allowance for loan losses is based on historical loss experience adjusted for qualitative factors stratified by the following loan segments: residential real estate (includes one-to-four family and home equity), commercial real estate, commercial and industrial, and consumer.  Management uses a rolling average of historical losses based on a time frame appropriate to capture relevant loss data for each loan segment.  This historical loss factor is adjusted for the following qualitative factors: trends in delinquencies and nonperforming loans; trends in volume and terms of loans; effects of changes in risk selection and underwriting standards and other changes in lending policies, procedures and practices; and national and local economic trends and industry conditions.  There were no changes in our policies or methodology pertaining to the general component of the allowance for loan losses during the periods presented for disclosure.

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

Residential real estate – We require private mortgage insurance for all loans originated with a loan-to-value ratio greater than 80% and we do not grant subprime loans.  All loans in this segment are collateralized by owner-occupied residential real estate and repayment is dependent on the credit quality of the individual borrower.  The overall health of the economy, including unemployment rates and housing prices, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment.  Home equity loans are secured by first or second mortgages on one-to-four family owner occupied properties.

Commercial real estate – Loans in this segment are primarily income-producing investment properties and owner occupied commercial properties throughout New England.  The underlying cash flows generated by the properties or operations can be adversely impacted by a downturn in the economy due to increased vacancy rates or diminished cash flows, which in turn, would have an effect on the credit quality in this segment.  Management obtains financial information annually and continually monitors the cash flows of these loans.

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

Consumer loans – Loans in this segment are secured or unsecured and repayment is dependent on the credit quality of the individual borrower.

Allocated component

The allocated component relates to loans that are classified as impaired. Impaired loans are identified by analysis of loan performance, internal credit ratings and watch list loans that management believes are subject to a higher risk of loss.  Impairment is measured on a loan by loan basis for commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.  An allowance is established when the discounted cash flows (or collateral value) of the impaired loan is lower than the carrying value of that loan. Large groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment.  Accordingly, we do not separately identify individual consumer and residential real estate loans for impairment disclosures, unless such loans are subject to a troubled debt restructuring agreement.

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement.  Factors considered by management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due.  Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired.  We determine the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed.
 
 
14

 
 
Unallocated component

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

An analysis of changes in the allowance for loan losses by segment for the periods ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows:

   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Residential
Real Estate
   
Commercial
and
Industrial
   
Consumer
   
Unallocated
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Three Months Ended
     
Balance at December 31, 2012
  $ 3,406     $ 1,746     $ 2,167     $ 13     $ 462     $ 7,794  
Provision (credit)
    (251 )     33       (23 )     2       4       (235 )
Charge-offs
    (20 )     (57 )     (72 )     (5 )     -       (154 )
Recoveries
    154       -       5       1       -       160  
Balance at March 31, 2013
  $ 3,289     $ 1,722     $ 2,077     $ 11     $ 466     $ 7,565  
                                                 
Balance at December 31, 2013
  $ 3,549     $ 1,707     $ 2,192     $ 13     $ (2 )   $ 7,459  
Provision (credit)
    140       119       (172 )     7       6       100  
Charge-offs
    -       (15 )     (74 )     (10 )     -       (99 )
Recoveries
    -       1       103       3       -       107  
Balance at March 31, 2014
  $ 3,689     $ 1,812     $ 2,049     $ 13     $ 4     $ 7,567  
 
 
15

 
 
Further information pertaining to the allowance for loan losses by segment at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 follows:
 
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Residential
Real
Estate
   
Commercial
and
Industrial
   
Consumer
   
Unallocated
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
March 31, 2014
                                   
                                     
Amount of allowance for loans individually evaluated and
deemed impaired
  $ 9     $ -     $ 10     $ -     $ -     $ 19  
Amount of allowance for loans collectively or individually
evaluated for impairment and not deemed impaired
    3,680       1,812       2,039       13       4       7,548  
Total allowance for loan losses
  $ 3,689     $ 1,812     $ 2,049     $ 13     $ 4     $ 7,567  
                                                 
Loans individually evaluated and deemed impaired
  $ 14,860     $ 214     $ 1,727     $ -     $ -     $ 16,801  
Loans collectively or individually evaluated and not
deemed impaired
    259,271       238,435       131,389       1,495       -       630,590  
Total loans
  $ 274,131     $ 238,649     $ 133,116     $ 1,495     $ -     $ 647,391  
                                                 
December 31, 2013
                                               
                                                 
Amount of allowance for loans individually evaluated and
deemed impaired
  $ 82     $ -     $ 15     $ -     $ -     $ 97  
Amount of allowance for loans collectively or individually
evaluated for impairment and not deemed impaired
    3,467       1,707       2,177       13       (2 )     7,362  
Total allowance for loan losses
  $ 3,549     $ 1,707     $ 2,192     $ 13     $ (2 )   $ 7,459  
                                                 
Loans individually evaluated and deemed impaired
    14,962       234       1,352       -       -       16,548  
Loans collectively or individually evaluated and not
deemed impaired
    249,514       233,823       134,203       2,572       -       620,112  
Total loans
  $ 264,476     $ 234,057     $ 135,555     $ 2,572     $ -     $ 636,660  

The following is a summary of past due and non-accrual loans by class at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

   
30 – 59 Days
Past Due
   
60 – 89 Days
Past Due
   
Greater than
90 Days Past
Due
   
Total Past
Due
   
Past Due 90
Days or More
and Still
Accruing
   
Loans on
Non-Accrual
 
   
(In thousands)
 
March 31, 2014
                                   
Commercial real estate
  $ 3,260     $ 145     $ 782     $ 4,187     $ -     $ 1,310  
Residential real estate:
                                               
Residential
    746       224       611       1,581       -       931  
Home equity
    304       -       22       326       -       56  
Commercial and industrial
    619       65       139       823       -       798  
Consumer
    4       15       1       20       -       2  
Total
  $ 4,933     $ 449     $ 1,555     $ 6,937     $ -     $ 3,097  
                                                 
December 31, 2013
                                               
Commercial real estate
  $ 430     $ 146     $ 793     $ 1,369     $ -     $ 1,449  
Residential real estate:
                                               
Residential
    1,004       325       311       1,640       -       712  
Home equity
    217       -       2       219       -       38  
Commercial and industrial
    516       780       140       1,436       -       386  
Consumer
    25       16       1       42       -       1  
Total
  $ 2,192     $ 1,267     $ 1,247     $ 4,706     $ -     $ 2,586  
 
 
16

 
 
The following is a summary of impaired loans by class at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

                     
Three Months Ended
 
   
At March 31, 2014
   
March 31, 2014
 
   
Recorded
Investment
   
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
   
Related
Allowance
   
Average
Recorded
Investment
   
Interest
Income
Recognized
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Impaired loans without a valuation allowance:
                         
Commercial real estate
  $ 1,431     $ 1,747     $ -     $ 1,440     $ -  
Residential real estate
    214       305       -       224       -  
Commercial and industrial
    766       789       -       576       -  
Total
    2,411       2,841       -       2,240       -  
                                         
Impaired loans with a valuation allowance:
                                 
Commercial real estate
    13,429       13,429       9       13,471       143  
Commercial and industrial
    961       961       10       964       10  
Total
    14,390       14,390       19       14,435       153  
                                         
Total impaired loans
  $ 16,801     $ 17,231     $ 19     $ 16,675     $ 153  
                                         
                           
Three Months Ended
 
   
At December 31, 2013
   
March 31, 2013
 
   
Recorded
Investment
   
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
   
Related
Allowance
   
Average
Recorded
Investment
   
Interest
Income
Recognized
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Impaired loans without a valuation allowance:
                                 
Commercial real estate
  $ 1,449     $ 1,756     $ -     $ 1,542     $ -  
Residential real estate
    234       306       -       273       -  
Commercial and industrial
    385       487       -       392       -  
Total
    2,068       2,549       -       2,207       -  
                                         
Impaired loans with a valuation allowance:
                                 
Commercial real estate
    13,513       13,513       82       13,800       147  
Commercial and industrial
    967       967       15       988       11  
Total
    14,480       14,480       97       14,788       158  
                                         
Total impaired loans
  $ 16,548     $ 17,029     $ 97     $ 16,995     $ 158  

All interest income recognized for impaired loans was recognized on the accrual basis during the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013.
 
 
17

 
 
We may periodically agree to modify the contractual terms of loans.  When a loan is modified and a concession is made to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty, the modification is considered a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”).  These concessions could include a reduction in the interest rate on the loan, payment extensions, postponement or forgiveness of principal, forbearance or other actions intended to maximize collection.  All TDRs are initially classified as impaired.

When we modify loans in a TDR, we evaluate any possible impairment similar to other impaired loans based on the present value of expected future cash flows, discounted at the contractual interest rate of the original loan agreement, or use the current fair value of the collateral, less selling costs for collateral dependent loans. If we determine that the value of the modified loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan (net of previous charge-offs, deferred loan fees or costs and unamortized premium or discount), impairment is recognized through an allowance estimate or a charge-off to the allowance. In periods subsequent to modification, we evaluate all TDRs, including those that have payment defaults, for possible impairment and recognize impairment through the allowance.

Nonperforming TDRs are shown as nonperforming assets. No loans were modified as a TDR during the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013.

A default occurs when a loan is 30 days or more past due and is within 12 months of restructuring.  The following is a summary of troubled debt restructurings that have subsequently defaulted within one year of modification:

   
March 31, 2013
 
   
Number of
Contracts
   
Recorded
Investment
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Troubled Debt Restructurings
           
Commercial and Industrial
    1     $ 44  
Total
    1     $ 44  

No TDRs defaulted during the three months ended March 31, 2014.

There were no charge-offs on TDRs during the three months ended March 31, 2014.  There was $36,000 in charge-offs on TDRs during the three months ended March 31, 2013.
 
 
18

 
 
Credit Quality Information

We utilize an eight-grade internal loan rating system for commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans. Performing residential real estate, home equity and consumer loans are grouped with “Pass” rated loans. Nonperforming residential real estate, home equity and consumer loans are monitored individually for impairment and risk rated as “Substandard.”

Loans rated 1 – 3 are considered “Pass” rated loans with low to average risk.

Loans rated 4 are considered “Pass Watch,” which represent loans to borrowers with declining earnings, losses, or strained cash flow.

Loans rated 5 are considered “Special Mention.” These loans exhibit potential credit weaknesses or downward trends and are being closely monitored by us.

Loans rated 6 are considered “Substandard.” Generally, a loan is considered substandard if the borrower exhibits a well-defined weakness that may be inadequately protected by the current net worth and cash flow capacity to pay the current debt.

Loans rated 7 are considered “Doubtful.” Loans classified as doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, highly questionable and improbable and that a partial loss of principal is likely.

Loans rated 8 are considered uncollectible and of such little value that their continuance as loans is not warranted.

On an annual basis, or more often if needed, we formally review the ratings on all commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans. Construction loans are reported within commercial real estate loans and total $27.7 million and $23.4 million at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.  We engage an independent third party to review a significant portion of loans within these segments on a semi-annual basis. We use the results of these reviews as part of our annual review process.

The following table presents our loans by risk rating at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Residential
1-4 Family
   
Home
Equity
   
Commercial
and Industrial
   
Consumer
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
March 31, 2014
                                   
Loans rated 1 – 3
  $ 223,071     $ 201,828     $ 35,834     $ 112,975     $ 1,495     $ 575,203  
Loans rated 4
    42,407       -       -       8,498       -       50,905  
Loans rated 5
    693       -       -       417       -       1,110  
Loans rated 6
    7,960       931       56       11,226       -       20,173  
    $ 274,131     $ 202,759     $ 35,890     $ 133,116     $ 1,495     $ 647,391  
                                                 
December 31, 2013
                                               
Loans rated 1 – 3
  $ 213,985     $ 197,974     $ 35,333     $ 108,671     $ 2,571     $ 558,534  
Loans rated 4
    41,459       -       -       15,722       -       57,181  
Loans rated 5
    1,972       -       -       3,509       -       5,481  
Loans rated 6
    7,060       712       38       7,653       1       15,464  
    $ 264,476     $ 198,686     $ 35,371     $ 135,555     $ 2,572     $ 636,660  
 
 
19

 
 
6.  SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

Under our 2007 Recognition and Retention Plan and our 2007 Stock Option Plan, we may grant up to 624,041 stock awards and 1,560,101 stock options, respectively, to our directors, officers, and employees.

During the third quarter of 2013, we completed a tender offer to purchase for cancellation 1,665,415 outstanding options to purchase common stock.  The recipients of each eligible option tendered received a cash payment equal to the current fair valuation of the option as measured under the binomial model.  The total cash paid to purchase the options was $2.1 million, which resulted in a decrease to cash and shareholders’ equity.  A deferred tax asset of $566,000 was charged to shareholders’ equity as a result of the tender offer.  As of December 31, 2013, 57,232 stock options that had been available for future grants were returned to the 2007 Stock Option Plan reserve and the 2002 and 2007 Stock Option Plans were frozen.

Stock awards are recorded as unearned compensation based on the market price at the date of grant.  Unearned compensation is amortized over the vesting period.  No stock awards were granted during the three months ended March 31, 2014. At March 31, 2014, no stock awards were available for future grants.

No stock options were granted during the three months ended March 31, 2014.

Our stock award and stock option plans activity for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 is summarized below:
 
   
Unvested Stock Awards
Outstanding
   
Stock Options
Outstanding
 
   
Shares
   
 
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
   
Shares
   
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
             
                         
                         
Outstanding at December 31, 2013
    25,720     $ 7.93       -       -  
No activity
    -       -       -       -  
Outstanding at March 31, 2014
    25,720     $ 7.93       -       -  
                                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2012
    33,800     $ 8.23       1,669,431     $ 10.02  
No activity
    -       -       -       -  
Outstanding at March 31, 2013
    33,800     $ 8.23       1,669,431     $ 10.02  

We recorded compensation cost related to the stock awards of $25,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2014.

7.  SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS AND LONG-TERM DEBT

We utilize short-term borrowings and long-term debt as an additional source of funds to finance our lending and investing activities and to provide liquidity for daily operations.

Short-term borrowings are made up of FHLBB advances with an original maturity of less than one year as well as customer repurchase agreements, which have an original maturity of one day.  Short-term borrowings issued by the FHLBB were $20.0 million at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. There were no advances outstanding on the line of credit as of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.  Customer repurchase agreements were $38.5 million at March 31, 2014 and $28.2 million at December 31, 2013.  A customer repurchase agreement is an agreement by us to sell to and repurchase from the customer an interest in specific securities issued by or guaranteed by the U.S. government.  This transaction settles immediately on a same day basis in immediately available funds.  Interest paid is commensurate with other products of equal interest and credit risk.  All of our customer repurchase agreements at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, were held by commercial customers. In addition, we have lines of credit of $4.0 million and $50.0 million with Bankers Bank Northeast (“BBN”) and PNC Bank, respectively. The interest rates on these lines are determined and reset on a daily basis by each respective bank. There were no advances outstanding under this line of credit at March 31, 2014 or December 31, 2013.  As part of our contract with BBN, we are required to maintain a reserve balance of $300,000 with BBN for our use of this line of credit.
 
 
20

 
 
Long-term debt consists of FHLBB advances, securities sold under repurchase agreements and customer repurchase agreements with an original maturity of one year or more.  At March 31, 2014, we had $232.9 million in long-term debt with the FHLBB and $10.0 million in securities sold under repurchase agreements with an approved broker-dealer.  This compares to $232.7 million in long-term debt with FHLBB advances and $10.0 million in securities sold under repurchase agreements with an approved broker-dealer at December 31, 2013.  The agreement to repurchase is callable at the issuer’s option beginning in the year 2014.  Customer repurchase agreements were $5.6 million at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

For the three months ended March 31, 2013, we prepaid repurchase agreements in the amount $9.0 million and incurred a prepayment expense of $1.4 million. The repurchase agreements had a weighted average cost of 3.77%.  The prepayments of repurchase agreements resulted in a decrease to the cost of funds and an increase to the net interest margin.  There were no such prepayments on any repurchase agreements for the three months ended March 31, 2014.

All FHLBB advances are collateralized by a blanket lien on our owner occupied residential real estate loans and certain mortgage-backed securities.

8.  PENSION BENEFITS

The following table provides information regarding net pension benefit costs for the periods shown:

   
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Service cost
  $ 250     $ 277  
Interest cost
    206       178  
Expected return on assets
    (240 )     (232 )
Transition asset
    (3 )     (3 )
Actuarial loss
    -       12  
Net periodic pension cost
  $ 213     $ 232  

We maintain a pension plan for our eligible employees.  We plan to contribute to the pension plan the amount required to meet the minimum funding standards under Section 412 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.  Additional contributions will be made as deemed appropriate by management in conjunction with the pension plan’s actuaries.  We have not yet determined how much we expect to contribute to our pension plan in 2014.  No contributions have been made to the plan for the three months ended March 31, 2014.  The pension plan assets are invested in group annuity contracts with the Principal Financial Group, who also acts as our 401(k) plan provider.
 
 
21

 
 
9. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

Risk Management Objective of Using Derivatives

We are exposed to certain risks arising from both our business operations and economic conditions.  We principally manage our exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of our core business activities. We manage economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity, and credit risk, primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of our assets and liabilities and the use of derivative financial instruments.  Specifically, we entered into derivative financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the receipt or payment of future known and uncertain cash amounts, the value of which are determined by interest rates.  Our derivative financial instruments are used to manage differences in the amount, timing, and duration of our known or expected cash receipts and our known or expected cash payments principally related to certain variable rate loan assets and variable rate borrowings.

Fair Values of Derivative Instruments on the Balance Sheet

The table below presents the fair value of our derivative financial instruments designated as hedging instruments as well as our classification on the balance sheet as of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

 March 31, 2014
 
Asset Derivatives
   
Liability Derivatives
 
   
Balance Sheet
Location
 
Fair Value
   
Balance Sheet
Location
 
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                     
Interest rate swaps
 
Other Assets
  $ 31    
Other Liabilities
  $ 620  
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments
      $ 31         $ 620  
                         

 December 31, 2013
 
Asset Derivatives
   
Liability Derivatives
 
   
Balance Sheet
Location
 
Fair Value
   
Balance Sheet
Location
 
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                     
Interest rate swaps
 
Other Assets
  $ 1,755     N/A   $ -  
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments
      $ 1,755         $ -  

At March 31, 2014, we held no derivatives that were not designated as hedging instruments.

Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk

Our objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to interest income and expense and to manage our exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish this objective, we entered into interest rate swaps in September 2013 as part of our interest rate risk management strategy.  These interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges and involve the receipt of variable rate amounts from a counterparty in exchange for our making fixed payments.  As of March 31, 2014, we had six forward-starting interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $155.0 million related to our cash outflows associated with various FHLB advances. The forward-starting interest rate swaps are effective between October 2013 and September 2016, and they mature between October 2017 and September 2022.
 
 
22

 
 
The following table presents information about our cash flow hedges at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013:

 March 31, 2014
 
Notional
   
Weighted Average
   
Weighted Average Rate
   
Estimated Fair
 
   
Amount
   
Maturity
   
Receive
   
Pay
   
Value
 
   
(In thousands)
   
(In years)
               
(In thousands)
 
Interest rate swaps on FHLBB borrowings
  $ 20,000       3.5       0.24 %     1.17 %   $ 31  
Forward starting interest rate swaps on FHLBB borrowings
    135,000       7.0       -       2.93 %     (620 )
Total cash flow hedges
  $ 155,000       6.5                     $ (589 )
                                         

 December 31, 2013
 
Notional
   
Weighted Average
   
Weighted Average Rate
   
Estimated Fair
 
   
Amount
   
Maturity
   
Receive
   
Pay
   
Value
 
   
(In thousands)
   
(In years)
               
(In thousands)
 
Interest rate swaps on FHLBB borrowings
  $ 20,000       3.8       0.24 %     1.17 %   $ 40  
Forward starting interest rate swaps on FHLBB borrowings
    135,000       7.2       -       2.93 %     1,715  
Total cash flow hedges
  $ 155,000       6.8                     $ 1,755  
                                         

The five forward-starting interest rate swaps will become effective in 2014, 2015, and 2016 with notional amounts of $20.0 million, $47.5 million and $67.5 million, respectively.

For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is initially reported in other comprehensive income (outside of earnings), net of tax, and subsequently reclassified to earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings, and the ineffective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is recognized directly in earnings. We assess the effectiveness of each hedging relationship by comparing the changes in cash flows of the derivative hedging instrument with the changes in cash flows of the designated hedged transactions.  We did not recognize any hedge ineffectiveness in earnings during the three months ended March 31, 2014.

We are hedging our exposure to the variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions over a maximum period of six years (excluding forecasted transactions related to the payment of variable interest on existing financial instruments).

Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss related to these derivatives will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on our rate sensitive assets/liabilities.  The amount reclassified from accumulated comprehensive income into income for the effective portion of interest rate swaps was $46,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2014.  We had no gain or loss reclassified from accumulated comprehensive income into income during the three months ended March 31, 2013. During the next 12 months, we estimate that $326,000 will be reclassified as an increase in interest expense.

The table below presents the pre-tax net gains (losses) of our cash flow hedges for the periods indicated.

   
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI
on Derivative (Effective Portion)
 
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Interest rate swaps
  $ (2,390 )   $ -  
 
 
23

 

Credit-risk-related Contingent Features

By using derivative financial instruments, we expose ourselves to credit risk. Credit risk is the risk of failure by the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes us, which creates credit risk for us. When the fair value of a derivative is negative, we owe the counterparty and, therefore, it does not possess credit risk. The credit risk in derivative instruments is mitigated by entering into transactions with highly-rated counterparties that we believe to be creditworthy and by limiting the amount of exposure to each counterparty.

We have agreements with our derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if we default on any of our indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then we could also be declared in default on our derivative obligations. We also have agreements with certain of our derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if we fail to maintain our status as well capitalized, then the counterparty could terminate the derivative positions and we would be required to settle our obligations under the agreements. Certain of our agreements with our derivative counterparties contain provisions where if a formal administrative action by a federal or state regulatory agency occurs that materially changes our creditworthiness in an adverse manner, we may be required to fully collateralize our obligations under the derivative instrument.

As of March 31, 2014, the termination value of derivatives in a net liability position related to these agreements, which includes accrued interest but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk, was $628,000. As of March 31, 2014, we have minimum collateral posting thresholds with certain of our derivative counterparties and have no collateral posted against our obligations under these agreements.  If we had breached any of these provisions at March 31, 2014, we could have been required to settle our obligations under the agreements at the termination value.

10.  FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Determination of Fair Value

We use fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures.  The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value is best determined based upon quoted market prices. However, in many instances, there are no quoted market prices for our various financial instruments. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. Accordingly, the fair value estimates may not be realized in an immediate settlement of the instrument.

Fair Value Hierarchy - We group our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value.

Level 1 – Valuation is based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets.  Level 1 assets generally include debt and equity securities that are traded in an active exchange market. Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets.

Level 2 – Valuation is based on observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets.

Level 3 – Valuation is based on unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets. Level 3 assets include financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation.
 
Methods and assumptions for valuing our financial instruments are set forth below.  Estimated fair values are calculated based on the value without regard to any premium or discount that may result from concentrations of ownership of a financial instrument, possible tax ramifications or estimated transaction cost.
 
 
24

 

Cash and cash equivalents – The carrying amounts of cash and short-term instruments approximate fair values based on the short-term nature of the assets.

Securities – Fair value of securities are primarily measured using unadjusted information from an independent pricing service. The securities measured at fair value in Level 1 are based on quoted market prices in an active exchange market. These securities include marketable equity securities.  All other securities are measured at fair value in Level 2 and are based on pricing models that consider standard input factors such as observable market data, benchmark yields, interest rate volatilities, broker/dealer quotes, credit spreads and new issue data.

Federal Home Loan Bank and other restricted stock - These investments are carried at cost which is their estimated redemption value.

Loans receivable – For variable-rate loans that reprice frequently and with no significant change in credit risk, fair values are based on carrying values. Fair values for other loans (e.g., commercial real estate and investment property mortgage loans, commercial and industrial loans and residential real estate loans) are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, using market interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality. Fair values for nonperforming loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses or underlying collateral values, where applicable.

Accrued interest – The carrying amounts of accrued interest approximate fair value.

Deposit liabilities – The fair values disclosed for demand deposits (e.g., interest and non-interest checking, passbook savings, and certain types of money market accounts) are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date (i.e., their carrying amounts). The carrying amounts of variable-rate, fixed-term money market accounts and certificates of deposit approximate their fair values at the reporting date. Fair values for fixed-rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies market interest rates currently being offered on certificates to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits.

Short-term borrowings and long-term debt – The fair values of our debt instruments are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on the current incremental borrowing rates in the market for similar types of borrowing arrangements.

Interest rate swaps - The valuation of our interest rate swaps is obtained from a third-party pricing service and is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. The pricing analysis is based on observable inputs for the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity and interest rate curves. We have determined that the majority of the inputs used to value our interest rate derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Commitments to extend credit - Fair values for off-balance sheet lending commitments are based on fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the term and credit risk.  For fixed-rate loan commitments, fair value also considers the difference between current levels of interest rates and the committed rates.  Such differences are not considered significant.

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:

 
25

 

   
March 31, 2014
 
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Assets:
 
(In thousands)
 
       
Securities available for sale:
     
Government-sponsored residential mortgage-backed securities
  $ -     $ 135,435     $ -     $ 135,435  
U.S. government guaranteed residential mortgage-backed securities
    -       33,839       -       33,839  
Corporate bonds
    -       29,365       -       29,365  
State and municipal bonds
    -       17,161       -       17,161  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    -       10,494       -       10,494  
Mutual funds
    5,979       -       -       5,979  
Common and preferred stock
    1,626       -       -       1,626  
Total assets
  $ 7,605     $ 226,294     $ -     $ 233,899  
                                 
Liabilities:
                               
Interest rate swaps, net
  $ -     $ 589     $ -     $ 589  
 
       
             
December 31, 2013
         
     
Level 1
     
Level 2
     
Level 3
     
Total
 
Securities available for sale:            
(In thousands)
         
Government-sponsored residential mortgage-backed securities
  $ -     $ 132,372     $ -     $ 132,372  
U.S. government guaranteed residential mortgage-backed securities
    -       46,328       -       46,328  
Corporate bonds
    -       27,389       -       27,389  
State and municipal bonds
    -       18,897       -       18,897  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations
    -       10,700       -       10,700  
Mutual funds
    5,919       -       -       5,919  
Common and preferred stock
    1,599       -       -       1,599  
Total securities available for sale
    7,518       235,686       -       243,204  
Interest rate swaps
    -       1,755       -       1,755  
Total assets
  $ 7,518     $ 237,441     $ -     $ 244,959  
 
 
26

 
 
Also, we may be required, from time to time, to measure certain other assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis in accordance with U.S. GAAP.  These adjustments to fair value usually result from application of lower-of-cost-or-market accounting or write-downs of individual assets.  The following table summarizes the fair value hierarchy used to determine each adjustment and the carrying value of the related assets at March 31, 2014 and 2013.  Total losses represent the change in carrying value as a result of fair value adjustments related to assets still held at March 31, 2014 and 2013.
 
   
At
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31, 2014
   
March 31, 2014
 
                     
Total
 
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Losses
 
   
(In thousands)
   
(In thousands)
 
Impaired loans
  $ -     $ -     $ 96     $ (15 )
Total assets
  $ -     $ -     $ 96     $ (15 )
                                 
   
At
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31, 2013
   
March 31, 2013
 
                           
Total
 
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Losses
 
   
(In thousands)
   
(In thousands)
 
Impaired loans
  $ -     $ -     $ 2,166     $ 69  
Total assets
  $ -     $ -     $ 2,166     $ 69  
 
The amount of impaired loans represents the carrying value and related write-down and valuation allowance of impaired loans for which adjustments are based on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral.  The fair value of impaired loans with specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses is generally based on real estate appraisals performed by independent licensed or certified appraisers.  These appraisals may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach.  Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available.  Management will discount appraisals as deemed necessary based on the date of the appraisal and new information deemed relevant to the valuation.  Such adjustments are typically significant and result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value. The resulting losses were recognized in earnings through the provision for loan losses.  Impaired loans with adjustments resulting from discounted cash flows or without a specific reserve are not included in this disclosure.

There were no transfers to or from Level 1 and 2 during the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013.  We did not measure any liabilities at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis on the consolidated balance sheets.
 
 
27

 
 
Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument.  These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time our entire holdings of a particular financial instrument.  Where quoted market prices are not available, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates. The estimated fair values of our financial instruments are as follows:

   
March 31, 2014
 
   
Carrying Value
   
Fair Value
 
         
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Assets:
                             
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 21,370     $ 21,370     $ -     $ -     $ 21,370  
Securities available for sale
    233,899       7,605       226,294       -       233,899  
Securities held to maturity
    292,019       -       283,672       -       283,672  
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston
and other restricted stock
    15,631       -       -       15,631       15,631  
Loans - net
    640,673       -       -       643,402       643,402  
Accrued interest receivable
    4,120       -       -       4,120       4,120  
                                         
Liabilities:
                                       
Deposits
    806,695       -       -       808,147       808,147  
Short-term borrowings
    58,460       -       58,459       -       58,459  
Long-term debt
    248,568       -       252,368       -       252,368  
Accrued interest payable
    376       -       -       376       376  
Derivative liabilities, net
    589       -       589       -       589  

   
December 31, 2013
 
   
Carrying Value
   
Fair Value
 
         
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Assets:
                             
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 19,742     $ 19,742     $ -     $ -     $ 19,742  
Securities available for sale
    243,204       7,518       235,686       -       243,204  
Securities held to maturity
    295,013       -       282,555       -       282,555  
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston
and other restricted stock
    15,631       -       -       15,631       15,631  
Loans - net
    629,968       -       -       631,417       631,417  
Accrued interest receivable
    4,201       -       -       4,201       4,201  
Derivative assets
    1,755       -       1,755       -       1,755  
                                         
Liabilities:
                                       
Deposits
    817,112       -       -       819,109       819,109  
Short-term borrowings
    48,197       -       48,197       -       48,197  
Long-term debt
    248,377       -       251,678       -       251,678  
Accrued interest payable
    392       -       -       392       392  
 
 
28

 
 
11.  RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In January 2014, FASB issued ASU 2014-04- Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40): “Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans Upon Foreclosure.” This ASU clarifies that an in substance repossession or foreclosure occurs, and a creditor is considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan, upon either (i) the creditor obtaining legal title to the residential real estate property upon completion of a foreclosure or (ii) the borrower conveying all interest in the residential real estate property to the creditor to satisfy that loan through completion of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar agreement. In addition, the amendments require disclosure of both the amount of foreclosed residential real estate property held by the creditor and the recorded investment in consumer mortgage loans collateralized by residential real estate property that are in the process of foreclosure in accordance with local requirements of the applicable jurisdiction. An entity can elect to adopt the amendments using either a modified retrospective method or a prospective transition method. The amendments are effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2014.  We do not expect the application of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
 
 
29

 
 
ITEM 2:  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Overview

We strive to remain a leader in meeting the financial service needs of our local community, and to provide quality service to the individuals and businesses in the market areas that we have served since 1853.  Historically, we have been a community-oriented provider of traditional banking products and services to business organizations and individuals, including products such as residential and commercial loans, consumer loans and a variety of deposit products.  We meet the needs of our local community through a community-based and service-oriented approach to banking.

We have adopted a growth-oriented strategy that has focused on increasing commercial lending.  Our strategy also calls for increasing deposit relationships and broadening our product lines and services.  We believe that this business strategy is best for our long-term success and viability, and complements our existing commitment to high-quality customer service.  In connection with our overall growth strategy, we seek to:

 
grow our commercial and industrial and commercial real estate loan portfolios by targeting businesses in our primary market area and in northern Connecticut as a means to increase the yield on and diversify our loan portfolio and build transactional deposit account relationships;

 
focus on expanding our retail banking franchise and increase the number of households served within our market area; and

 
supplement the commercial focus, grow the residential loan portfolio to diversify risk and deepen customer relationships.  We will maintain our arrangement with a third-party mortgage company which assists in originating and servicing residential real estate loans.  By doing this, we reduce the overhead costs associated with these loans.

You should read the following financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2014 in the context of this strategy.

 
Net income was $1.6 million, or $0.09 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2014, compared to $1.8 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, for the same period in 2013.

 
The provision (credit) for loan losses was $100,000 and $(235,000) for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The credit for loan losses in the 2013 period was the result of continued improvement in the overall risk profile of the commercial loan portfolio.  Classified loans that previously carried higher allowances showed considerable improvement, resulting in a lower allowance requirement.

 
Net interest income was $7.7 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 2.63% for the three months ended March 31, 2014, compared to 2.59% for the same period in 2013.  The stable net interest income was primarily due to an 11 basis point decrease in the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities along with a shift in average interest-earning assets out of securities and into loans, which tend to carry a higher average yield.
 
 
30

 
 
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and practices within the banking industry.  Application of these principles requires management to make 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.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Critical accounting estimates are necessary in the application of certain accounting policies and procedures, and are particularly susceptible to significant change. Critical accounting policies are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgments and uncertainties, and could potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies during the three months ended March 31, 2014.  For additional information on our critical accounting policies, please refer to the information contained in Note 1 of the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements and Note 1 of the consolidated financial statements included in our 2013 Annual Report.

COMPARISON OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AT MARCH 31, 2014 AND DECEMBER 31, 2013

Total assets were stable at $1.3 billion at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.  Securities decreased $12.3 million to $541.5 million at March 31, 2014, from $553.8 million at December 31, 2013.

We have entered into several forward-starting interest rate swap contracts with a combined notional value of $155.0 million. The swap contracts have start dates ranging from the fourth quarter 2013 to the third quarter 2016 and have durations ranging from four to six years. This hedge strategy converts the LIBOR based rate of interest on certain FHLB advances to fixed interest rates, thereby protecting us from floating interest rate variability.  On a stand-alone basis, the interest rate swaps introduce potential future volatility in tangible book value and accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”); however, the valuation of the swaps is expected to change in the opposite direction of the valuations on the available-for-sale securities portfolio.  This is consistent with our objective to reduce total volatility in tangible book value and AOCI.

Total loans increased by $10.8 million to $648.2 million at March 31, 2014 from $637.4 million at December 31, 2013.  Commercial real estate loans increased $9.6 million to $274.1 million at March 31, 2014 from $264.5 at December 31, 2013.  Non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans increased $11.1 million to $163.0 million at March 31, 2014 from $151.9 million at December 31, 2013, while owner occupied commercial real estate loans decreased $1.4 million to $111.1 million at March 31, 2014, from $112.5 million at December 31, 2013.  Commercial and industrial loans decreased $2.4 million to $133.2 million at March 31, 2014 from $135.6 million at December 31, 2013.  The primary reason for the decreases in commercial and industrial loans and owner occupied commercial real estate loans was the payoff of a commercial loan relationship totaling $7.9 million that occurred during the first quarter of 2014, which offset growth in these same areas.

Residential loans increased $4.5 million to $238.6 million at March 31, 2014 from $234.1 million at December 31, 2013.  Through our long standing relationship with a third-party mortgage company, we purchased a total of $4.2 million in residential loans within and contiguous to our market area.  In addition, we purchased $3.3 million in residential loans from a New England-based bank as a means of supplementing our purchased mortgage relationships.  While in prior quarters management has used residential loan growth to supplement the loan portfolio, the long-term strategy remains focused on commercial lending.

All loans where the interest payment is 90 days or more in arrears as of the closing date of each month are placed on nonaccrual status.  Nonperforming loans were $3.1 million at March 31, 2014 and $2.6 million at December 31, 2013.  The increase in nonaccrual loans for the quarter ended March 31, 2014 was primarily due to a single commercial loan relationship of $497,000.  If all nonaccrual loans had been performing in accordance with their terms, we would have earned additional interest income of $43,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  At March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, there was no real estate in foreclosure.  At March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, our nonperforming loans to total loans were 0.48% and 0.41%, respectively, while our nonperforming assets to total assets were 0.24% and 0.20%, respectively.  A summary of our nonaccrual and past due loans by class are listed in Note 5 of the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements.
 
 
31

 
 
Total deposits decreased $10.4 million to $806.7 million at March 31, 2014 from $817.1 million at December 31, 2013.  The decrease in deposits was due to a $16.4 million decrease in checking accounts, which were $173.6 million and $190.0 million at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.  This was primarily the result of an $18.2 million customer withdrawal during the first quarter of 2014.  Money market accounts increased $6.3 million to $210.8 million at March 31, 2014 from $204.5 million at December 31, 2013.  We modified the interest rate structure on consumer checking accounts, which resulted in some funds from consumer checking shifting to the relationship-based money market account.  Regular savings accounts decreased $268,000 to $81.0 million while time deposit accounts decreased $150,000 to $341.3 million at March 31, 2014 from December 31, 2013, respectively.

Borrowings increased $10.4 million to $307.0 million at March 31, 2014 from $296.6 million at December 31, 2013.  Short-term borrowings increased $10.2 million to $58.4 million at March 31, 2014 from $48.2 million at December 31, 2013.  Long-term debt increased $200,000 to $248.6 million from $248.4 million at December 31, 2013.  The change in our short-term debt and long-term borrowings was to take advantage of short-term, low cost FHLBB funding in this interest rate environment.  Our short-term borrowings and long-term debt are discussed in Note 7 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Shareholders’ equity was $151.6 million and $154.1 million, which represented 11.9% and 12.1% of total assets at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.  The decrease in shareholders’ equity during the quarter reflects the repurchase of 355,926 shares of our common stock at a cost of $2.6 million pursuant to our stock repurchase program, the payment of regular dividends amounting to $1.1 million and a decrease in other comprehensive income of $725,000 due to changes in the market value of securities.  This was partially offset by net income of $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014.

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2014 AND MARCH 31, 2013

General

Net income was $1.6 million, or $0.09 per diluted share, for the quarter ended March 31, 2014, compared to $1.8 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, for the same period in 2013.  Net interest income was $7.7 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Net Interest and Dividend Income

The following tables set forth the information relating to our average balance and net interest income for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, and reflect the average yield on interest-earning assets and average cost of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods indicated.  Yields and costs are derived by dividing interest income by the average balance of interest-earning assets and interest expense by the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods shown.  The interest rate spread is the difference between the total average yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.  Net interest margin represents tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.  Average balances are derived from actual daily balances over the periods indicated.  Interest income includes fees earned from making changes in loan rates and terms and fees earned when the real estate loans are prepaid or refinanced.  For analytical purposes, the interest earned on tax-exempt assets is adjusted to a tax-equivalent basis to recognize the income tax savings which facilitates comparison between taxable and tax-exempt assets.
 
 
32

 
 
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
   
Average
         
Avg Yield/
   
Average
         
Avg Yield/
 
   
Balance
   
Interest
   
Cost
   
Balance
   
Interest
   
Cost
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
ASSETS:
                                   
Interest-earning assets
                                   
Loans(1)(2)
  $ 640,855     $ 6,595       4.12 %   $ 590,290     $ 6,309       4.28 %
Securities(2)
    530,046       3,506       2.65       613,288       4,202       2.74  
Other investments - at cost
    17,530       65       1.48       16,671       19       0.46  
Short-term investments(3)
    13,017       6       0.18       8,016       2       0.10  
Total interest-earning assets
    1,201,448       10,172       3.39       1,228,265       10,532       3.43  
Total noninterest-earning assets
    72,994                       65,848                  
                                                 
Total assets
  $ 1,274,442                     $ 1,294,113                  
                                                 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY:
                                               
Interest-bearing liabilities
                                               
Interest-bearing accounts
  $ 42,892       28       0.26     $ 50,195       37       0.29  
Savings accounts
    80,462       20       0.10       91,770       37       0.16  
Money market accounts
    210,884       193       0.37       174,218       165       0.38  
Time certificates of deposit
    340,428       1,050       1.23       326,384       1,148       1.41  
Total interest-bearing deposits
    674,666       1,291               642,567       1,387          
Short-term borrowings and long-term debt
    308,642       1,088       1.41       346,382       1,292       1.49  
Interest-bearing liabilities
    983,308       2,379       0.97       988,949       2,679       1.08  
Noninterest-bearing deposits
    129,423                       112,947                  
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities
    9,077                       10,050                  
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities
    138,500                       122,997                  
                                                 
Total liabilities
    1,121,808                       1,111,946                  
Total equity
    152,634                       182,167                  
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 1,274,442                     $ 1,294,113                  
Less: Tax-equivalent adjustment(2)
            (138 )                     (183 )        
Net interest and dividend income
          $ 7,655                     $ 7,670          
Net interest rate spread(4)
                    2.42 %                     2.35 %
Net interest margin(5)
                    2.63 %                     2.59 %
Ratio of average interest-earning
                                               
assets to average interest-bearing liabilities
              122.18                       124.20  
________________________

(1)
Loans, including non-accrual loans, are net of deferred loan origination costs, and unadvanced funds.
(2)
Securities and loan income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 34%.  The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income to agree to the amount reported in the statements of income.
(3)
Short-term investments include federal funds sold.
(4)
Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
(5)
Net interest margin represents tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income as a percentage of average interest earning assets.

 
33

 
 
The following table shows how changes in interest rates and changes in the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected our interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated.  Information is provided in each category with respect to:

 
interest income changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate);
 
interest income changes attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by current volume); and
 
the net change.

The changes attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate.
 
   
Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2013
 
   
Increase (Decrease) Due to
       
   
Volume
   
Rate
   
Net
 
Interest-earning assets
 
(In thousands)
 
Loans (1)
  $ 540     $ (254 )   $ 286  
Securities (1)
    (570 )     (126 )     (696 )
Other investments - at cost
    1       45       46  
Short-term investments
    1       3       4  
Total interest-earning assets
    (28 )     (332 )     (360 )
                         
Interest-bearing liabilities
                       
Interest-bearing accounts
    (5 )     (4 )     (9 )
Savings accounts
    (5 )     (12 )     (17 )
Money market accounts
    35       (7 )     28  
Time deposits
    49       (147 )     (98 )
Short-term borrowing and long-time debt
    (141 )     (63 )     (204 )
Total interest-bearing liabilities
    (67 )     (233 )     (300 )
Change in net interest and dividend income
  $ 39     $ (99 )   $ (60 )
__________________________

(1)
Securities, loan income and change in net interest and dividend income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 34%. The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest income.

Net interest income was $7.7 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 2.63% for the three months ended March 31, 2014, compared to 2.59% for the same period in 2013.

The stable net interest income was primarily driven by an 11 basis point reduction in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities in addition to a shift in average interest-earnings assets from securities into loans.  Interest expense decreased $300,000 to $2.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014 from $2.7 million for the same period in 2013.  The average cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreased 11 basis points to 0.97% for the three months ended March 31, 2014 from 1.08% for the same period in 2013.  The decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities was primarily due to a decrease in rates on time deposits along with a decrease in the volume of short-term borrowings and long-term debt.  The cost of time deposits decreased 18 basis points to 1.23% for the three months ended March 31, 2014 from 1.41% for the three months ended March 31, 2013, primarily due to time deposit balances maturing and being reinvested into lower rates.  In addition, the average balance of short-term borrowings and long-term debt decreased $37.7 million to $308.6 million at March 31, 2014.  During 2013, we prepaid a total of $43.3 million in repurchase agreements that had a weighted average cost of 2.99% and their prepayment resulted in a decrease to the cost of funds and an increase to the net interest margin for the three months ended March 31, 2014.

Interest on earning-assets, on a tax-equivalent basis, decreased $360,000 to $10.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014, from $10.5 million for the same period in 2013. The average balance of interest-earning assets decreased $26.8 million to $1.2 billion for March 31, 2014.  The average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 4 basis points to 3.39% for the three months ended March 31, 2014 from 3.43% for the same period in 2013.  While the average balance of and average yield on interest-earning assets decreased, the asset mix showed a favorable shift from securities into loans, which helped to mitigate the reduction in average yield on interest-earning assets due to the higher average yield on loans.  The average balance of securities decreased $83.3 million to $530.0 million from $613.3 million, while the average balance of loans increased $50.6 million to $640.9 million from $590.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014 from the same period in 2013.  The change in average asset balances is the result of our strategy to gradually shift our asset mix out of securities and into loans, which should have a favorable impact our net interest margin in future periods.
 
 
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Provision for Loan Losses

The amount that we provided for loan losses during the three months ended March 31, 2014 was based upon the changes that occurred in the loan portfolio during that same period. The changes in the loan portfolio, described in detail below, include an increase in commercial real estate loans and residential real estate loans, which were partially offset by a decrease in commercial and industrial loans, loan charge-offs and the continuous improvement of the overall risk profile of the commercial loan portfolio.  After evaluating these factors, we recorded a provision of $100,000 for loan losses for the three months ended March 31, 2014, compared to a credit of $235,000 for the same period in 2013.  The allowance was $7.6 million and $7.5 million and 1.17% of total loans at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

Commercial real estate loans increased $9.6 million to $274.1 million at March 31, 2014 from $264.5 at December 31, 2013.  Non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans increased $11.1 million to $163.0 million at March 31, 2014 from $151.9 million at December 31, 2013, while owner occupied commercial real estate loans decreased $1.4 million to $111.1 million at March 31, 2014, from $112.5 million at December 31, 2013.  Residential loans increased $4.5 million to $238.6 million at March 31, 2014 from $234.1 million at December 31, 2013.  Commercial and industrial loans decreased $2.4 million to $133.2 million at March 31, 2014 from $135.6 million at December 31, 2013.  We consider residential real estate loans to contain less credit risk and market risk than both commercial and industrial and commercial real estate loans.

The credit for loan losses during the 2013 period was the result of continued improvement in the overall risk profile of the commercial loan portfolio.  Impaired loans that previously carried higher allowances showed considerable improvement resulting in allowances on impaired loans decreasing $230,000 to $308,000 at March 31, 2013.  A summary of our provision for loan losses by loan segment is listed in Note 5 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Net recoveries were $8,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2014.  This comprised recoveries of $107,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2014, offset partially by charge-offs of $99,000 for the same period.

Net recoveries were $6,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2013.  This comprised recoveries of $160,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2013, offset partially by charge-offs of $154,000.

Although we believe that we have established and maintained the allowance for loan losses at adequate levels, future adjustments may be necessary if economic, real estate and other conditions differ substantially from the current operating environment.

Noninterest Income

Noninterest income increased $120,000 to $1.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014, compared to $958,000 for the same period in 2013.  Service charges and fees increased $98,000 to $670,000 at March 31, 2014, from $572,000 at March 31, 2013.  The increase was primarily due to the collection of $97,000 in prepayment fees on a commercial loan relationship that paid off early.  Fees collected from card-based transactions increased $21,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2014, which reflects an increase in customer debit card and automated teller machine transactions.  Fees from the third-party mortgage company decreased $14,000 to $30,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2014.  In addition, while there were $1.4 million in gains on sales of securities during the three months ended March 31, 2013, we also incurred $1.4 million in expense on the prepayment of borrowings.
 
 
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Noninterest Expense

Noninterest expense was stable at $6.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013. Salaries and benefits remained consistent at $3.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Income Taxes

For the three months ended March 31, 2014, we had a tax provision of $451,000 as compared to $566,000 for the same period in 2013.  The effective tax rate was 21.5% for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 24.1% for the same period in 2013.  The change in effective tax rate from March 31, 2013 reflects lower pre-tax income and the maintenance of comparable levels of tax-advantaged income such as bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) and slightly lower levels of tax-exempt municipal obligations.
 
 
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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The term “liquidity” refers to our ability to generate adequate amounts of cash to fund loan originations, loan purchases, withdrawals of deposits and operating expenses.  Our primary sources of liquidity are deposits, scheduled amortization and prepayments of loan principal and mortgage-backed securities, maturities and calls of securities and funds provided by operations.  We also can borrow funds from the FHLBB based on eligible collateral of loans and securities.  Our maximum additional borrowing capacity from the FHLBB at March 31, 2014, was $67.7 million. In addition, we have lines of credit of $4.0 million and $50.0 million with Bankers Bank Northeast (“BBN”) and PNC Bank, respectively. The interest rates on these lines are determined and reset on a daily basis by each respective bank.  As of March 31, 2014, our additional borrowing capacity from BBN and PNC Bank was $4.0 million and $50.0 million, respectively.

Liquidity management is both a daily and long-term function of business management.  The measure of a company’s liquidity is its ability to meet its cash commitments at all times with available cash or by conversion of other assets to cash at a reasonable price.  Loan repayments and maturing securities are a relatively predictable source of funds.  However, deposit flow, calls of securities and repayments of loans and mortgage-backed securities are strongly influenced by interest rates, general and local economic conditions and competition in the marketplace.  These factors reduce the predictability of the timing of these sources of funds.  Management believes that we have sufficient liquidity to meet its current operating needs.

At March 31, 2014, we exceeded each of the applicable regulatory capital requirements.  As of March 31, 2014, the most recent notification from the Office of Comptroller of the Currency categorized us as “well-capitalized” under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action.  To be categorized as “well-capitalized” we must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based, and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the following table. There is also a requirement to maintain a ratio of 1.5% tangible capital to tangible assets. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes would change our category.  Our actual capital ratios of March 31, 2014, and December 31, 2013, are also presented in the following table.
   
Actual
   
Minimum For Capital
Adequacy Purpose
   
Minimum To Be Well
Capitalized Under Prompt
Corrective Action
Provisions
 
   
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
   
Amount
   
Ratio
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
March 31, 2014
                                   
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):
                                   
Consolidated
  $ 162,902       20.77 %   $ 62,757       8.00 %     N/A       -  
Bank
    155,572       19.87       62,638       8.00     $ 78,297       10.00 %
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):
                                               
Consolidated
  $ 155,286       19.80       31,378       4.00       N/A       -  
Bank
    147,945       18.90       31,319       4.00       46,978       6.00  
Tier 1 Capital (to Adjusted Total Assets):
                                               
Consolidated
  $ 155,286       12.14       51,149       4.00       N/A       -  
Bank
    147,945       11.58       51,083       4.00       63,854       5.00  
Tangible Equity (to Tangible Assets):
                                               
Consolidated
    N/A       -       N/A       -       N/A       -  
Bank
    147,945       11.58       19,156       1.50       N/A       -  
                                                 
December 31, 2013
                                               
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):
                                               
Consolidated
  $ 164,605       21.17 %   $ 62,207       8.00 %     N/A       -  
Bank
    157,484       20.30       62,073       8.00     $ 77,591       10.00 %
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):
                                               
Consolidated
  $ 157,119       20.21       31,104       4.00       N/A       -  
Bank
    149,965       19.33       31,036       4.00       46,555       6.00  
Tier 1 Capital (to Adjusted Total Assets):
                                               
Consolidated
  $ 157,119       12.28       51,193       4.00       N/A       -  
Bank
    149,965       11.73       51,121       4.00       63,901       5.00  
Tangible Equity (to Tangible Assets):
                                               
Consolidated
    N/A       -       N/A       -       N/A       -  
Bank
    149,965       11.73       19,170       1.50       N/A       -  
 
 
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We also have outstanding, at any time, a significant number of commitments to extend credit and provide financial guarantees to third parties.  These arrangements are subject to strict credit control assessments.  Guarantees specify limits to our obligations.  Because many commitments and almost all guarantees expire without being funded in whole or in part, the contract amounts are not estimates of future cash flows.  We are obligated under leases for certain of our branches and equipment.  The following table summarizes the contractual obligations and credit commitments at March 31, 2014:

  
 
Within 1 Year
   
After 1 Year But Within 3 Years
   
After 3 Year But Within 5 Years
   
After 5 Years
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Lease Obligations
                             
Operating lease obligations
  $ 655     $ 1,087     $ 800     $ 9,283     $ 11,825  
                                         
Borrowings and Debt
                                       
Federal Home Loan Bank
    51,468       88,936       89,500       23,000       252,904  
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
    44,124       -       10,000       -       54,124  
Total borrowings and debt
    95,592       88,936       99,500       23,000       307,028  
                                         
Credit Commitments
                                       
Available lines of credit
    75,894       -       -       24,617       100,511  
Other loan commitments
    37,115       3,000       -       43       40,158  
Letters of credit
    1,467       -       -       271       1,738  
Total credit commitments
    114,476       3,000       -       24,931       142,407  
                                         
Total Obligations
  $ 210,723     $ 93,023     $ 100,300     $ 57,214     $ 461,260  
 
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors.

ITEM 3: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

There have been no material changes in our assessment of our sensitivity to market risk since its presentation in our 2013 Annual Report. Please refer to Item 7A of the 2013 Annual Report for additional information.
 
 
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ITEM 4: CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures.

Management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)), as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based upon the evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective, to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports we file and submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported as and when required and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely discussion regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation that occurred during our last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1.       LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

We are subject to claims and legal actions in the ordinary course of business. We believe that all such claims and actions currently pending against us, if any, are either adequately covered by insurance or would not have a material adverse effect on us if decided in a manner unfavorable to us.
 
ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS.

For a summary of risk factors relevant to our operations, see Part 1, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our 2013 Annual Report.  There are no material changes in the risk factors relevant to our operations.
 
 
39

 

ITEM 2.   UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.

The following table sets forth information with respect to purchases made by us of our common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2014.
 
Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
   
Average Price Paid per Share ($)
   
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Programs
   
Maximum
Number of
Shares that May
Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Program
     
January 1 - 31, 2014
    197,226       7.36       197,226       236,728      
February 1 - 28, 2014
    80,235       7.43       80,235       156,493      
March 1 - 31, 2014
    78,465       7.61       78,465       78,028    (1) (2)
Total
    355,926       7.43       355,926       78,028      
 
(1)
On September 17, 2013, the Board of Directors voted to authorize the commencement of a new repurchase program, authorizing the repurchase of 1,037,000 shares, or 5% of our outstanding common stock. This repurchase program commenced upon the completion of the previously announced program. As of March 31, 2014, there were 78,028 shares remaining to be purchased under the new repurchase program. We completed the stock repurchase program on April 14, 2014.
 
(2)
On March 13, 2014, the Board of Directors voted to authorize a stock repurchase program under which we may repurchase up to 1,970,000 shares, or 10% of our outstanding common stock.
 

There were no sales by us of unregistered securities during the three months ended March 31, 2014.

ITEM 3.   DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES.

None.

ITEM 4.   MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE.

Not applicable.

ITEM 5.   OTHER INFORMATION.

None.

ITEM 6.    EXHIBITS.

The exhibits required to be filed as part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are listed in the Exhibit Index attached hereto and are incorporated herein by reference.
 
 
40

 

 
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 on May 9, 2014.

  Westfield Financial, Inc.  
       
 
By:
/s/ James C. Hagan  
    James C. Hagan  
    President and Chief Executive Officer  
       
     
       
 
By:
/s/ Leo R. Sagan, Jr.  
    Leo R. Sagan, Jr.  
    Vice President and Chief Financial Officer  
       
 
 
 

 
 
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit
Number
 
Description
3.1
 
Articles of Organization of New Westfield Financial, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-137024) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 31, 2006).
3.2
 
Articles of Amendment of New Westfield Financial, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 of the Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 5, 2007).
3.3
 
Amended and Restated Bylaws of Westfield Financial, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 14, 2011).
4.1
 
Form of Stock Certificate of Westfield Financial, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Registration Statement No. 333-137024 on Form S-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 31, 2006).
31.1*
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2*
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1*
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2*
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101**
 
Financial statements from the quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Westfield Financial, Inc. for the quarter ended March 31, 2013, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Operations, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
_______________________________

  *           Filed herewith.
 
**
Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the Interactive Data Files on Exhibit 101 hereto are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections.