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Western New England Bancorp, Inc. - Quarter Report: 2015 March (Form 10-Q)

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D. C. 20549

______________________

 

FORM 10-Q

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

 

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015

 

OR

 

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

  

For the transition period from __________ to __________.

 

 

Commission file number 001-16767

 

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 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.   Yes  ☒   No  ☐

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark 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  ☐   Accelerated filer  ☒
     
Non-accelerated filer  ☐   Smaller reporting company  ☐

 

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

 

At May 1, 2015, the registrant had 18,558,310 shares of common stock, $.01 par value, issued and outstanding.

 

 
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    Page
     
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS i
     
PART I   FINANCIAL INFORMATION  
     
Item 1. Financial Statements of Westfield Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries  
     
  Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)   March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 1
     
  Consolidated Statements of Net Income (Unaudited)   Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 2
      
  Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 3
   
  Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 4
   
  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)   Three Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 5
     
  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 6
     
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 29
     
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 37
     
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 37
     
     
PART II   OTHER INFORMATION  
     
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 38
     
Item 1A. Risk Factors 38
     
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 39
     
Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities 39
     
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 39
     
Item 5. Other Information 39
     
Item 6. Exhibits 39

 

 
 

 

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 governmental legislation and regulation, including changes in accounting regulation or standards, the nature and timing of the adoption and effectiveness of new requirements under the Dodd-Frank Act, Basel guidelines, capital requirements and other applicable laws and regulations;
   
·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,
   2015  2014
ASSETS      
CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS  $11,010   $10,294 
FEDERAL FUNDS SOLD   81    269 
INTEREST-BEARING DEPOSITS AND OTHER SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   1,628    8,222 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS   12,719    18,785 
           
SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE – AT FAIR VALUE   233,591    215,750 
SECURITIES HELD TO MATURITY (Fair value of $268,995 and $277,636 at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively)   266,718    278,080 
FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF BOSTON AND OTHER RESTRICTED STOCK - AT COST   14,934    14,934 
LOANS - Net of allowance for loan losses of $8,035 and $7,948 at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively   722,319    716,738 
PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT, Net   13,762    11,703 
ACCRUED INTEREST RECEIVABLE   4,151    4,213 
BANK-OWNED LIFE INSURANCE   49,070    48,703 
DEFERRED TAX ASSET, Net   9,615    8,819 
OTHER ASSETS   2,132    2,371 
TOTAL ASSETS  $1,329,011   $1,320,096 
           
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
LIABILITIES:          
DEPOSITS:          
Noninterest-bearing  $140,331   $136,186 
Interest-bearing   732,972    698,032 
Total deposits   873,303    834,218 
           
SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS   82,625    93,997 
LONG-TERM DEBT   212,637    232,479 
OTHER LIABILITIES   20,156    16,859 
TOTAL LIABILITIES   1,188,721    1,177,553 
           
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:          
Preferred stock - $.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014        
Common stock - $.01 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized, 18,558,310 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2015; 18,734,791 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014   186    187 
Additional paid-in capital   110,382    111,696 
Unearned compensation - ESOP   (7,340)   (7,469)
Unearned compensation - Equity Incentive Plan   (416)   (95)
Retained earnings   46,506    45,699 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (9,028)   (7,475)
Total shareholders’ equity   140,290    142,543 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY  $1,329,011   $1,320,096 

 

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,
   2015  2014
INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME:      
Residential and commercial real estate loans  $5,595   $5,247 
Commercial and industrial loans   1,598    1,277 
Consumer loans   36    33 
Debt securities, taxable   2,658    3,160 
Debt securities, tax-exempt   186    210 
Equity securities   41    36 
Other investments - at cost   68    65 
Federal funds sold, interest-bearing deposits and other short-term investments   6    6 
Total interest and dividend income   10,188    10,034 
INTEREST EXPENSE:          
Deposits   1,341    1,291 
Long-term debt   1,070    1,011 
Short-term borrowings   187    77 
Total interest expense   2,598    2,379 
Net interest and dividend income   7,590    7,655 
PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES   300    100 
Net interest and dividend income after provision for loan losses   7,290    7,555 
           
NONINTEREST INCOME (LOSS):          
Service charges and fees   638    670 
Income from bank-owned life insurance   367    379 
Loss on prepayment of borrowings   (593)    
Gain on sales of securities, net   817    29 
Total noninterest income   1,229    1,078 
NONINTEREST EXPENSE:          
Salaries and employee benefits   3,821    3,778 
Occupancy   840    761 
Computer operations   585    515 
Professional fees   472    512 
FDIC insurance assessment   193    165 
Other   800    803 
Total noninterest expense   6,711    6,534 
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES   1,808    2,099 
INCOME TAX PROVISION   470    451 
NET INCOME  $1,338   $1,648 
           
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:          
Basic earnings per share  $0.08   $0.09 
Weighted average shares outstanding   17,684,498    18,812,795 
Diluted earnings per share  $0.08   $0.09 
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding   17,684,498    18,812,795 

 

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,
   2015  2014
       
Net income  $1,338   $1,648 
           
Other comprehensive income (loss):          
Unrealized gain (loss) on securities:          
Unrealized holding gains on available for sale securities   1,214    1,277 
Reclassification adjustment for gains realized in income   (817)   (29)
Amortization of net unrealized loss on held-to-maturity securities (1)   (76)   12 
Net unrealized gains   321    1,260 
Tax effect   (112)   (434)
Net-of-tax amount   209    826 
           
Derivative instruments:          
Change in fair value of derivatives used for cash flow hedges   (2,769)   (2,390)
Reclassification adjustment for loss realized (2)   131    46 
Tax effect   897    797 
Net-of-tax amount   (1,741)   (1,547)
           
Defined benefit pension plans:          
Losses arising during the period   (62)    
Reclassification adjustments (3):          
Amortization of actuarial loss   31     
Amortization of transition asset       (5)
Net adjustments pertaining to defined benefit plans   (31)   (5)
Tax effect   10    1 
Net-of-tax amount   (21)   (4)
           
Other comprehensive loss   (1,553)   (725)
           
Comprehensive income (loss)  $(215)  $923 

 

(1) Amortization of net unrealized loss on held-to-maturity securities is recognized as a component of interest income on debt securities. Income tax benefits associated with the reclassification adjustments were $25,000 and $4,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
   
(2) Loss realized on derivative instruments is recognized as a component of interest expense on short-term debt. Income tax benefits associated with the reclassification adjustment were $45,000 and $16,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
   
(3) Amortization amounts have been recognized as a component of salaries and employee benefits expense. Income tax benefits associated with the reclassification adjustments were $11,000 and $2,000, for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

3
 

 

WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY - UNAUDITED
THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2015 AND 2014

(Dollars in thousands, except share data)
 
   Common Stock        Unearned     Accumulated   
         Additional  Unearned  Compensation-     Other   
      Par  Paid-in  Compensation  Equity  Retained  Comprehensive   
   Shares  Value  Capital  - ESOP  Incentive Plan  Earnings  Income (Loss)  Total
                         
BALANCE AT 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 
                                         
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2014   18,734,791   $187   $111,696   $(7,469)  $(95)  $45,699   $(7,475)  $142,543 
                                         
Comprehensive income                       1,338    (1,553)   (215)
                                        
Common stock held by ESOP committed to be released (76,888 shares)           10    129                139 
                                         
Share-based compensation - equity incentive plan                   28            28 
                                         
Excess tax benefit from equity incentive plan           1                    1 
Common stock repurchased   (225,041)   (2)   (1,673)                   (1,675)
                                         
Issuance of common stock in connection with equity incentive plan   48,560    1    348        (349)            
                                         
Cash dividends declared ($0.03 per share)                       (531)       (531)
                                         
BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2015   18,558,310   $186   $110,382   $(7,340)  $(416)  $46,506   $(9,028)  $140,290 

 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

4
 

 

WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in thousands)

 

    Three Months Ended March 31,
   2015  2014
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:      
Net income  $1,338   $1,648 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:          
Provision for loan losses   300    100 
Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment   335    281 
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities and mortgage loans   1,283    1,045 
Net amortization of premiums on modified debt   122    156 
Share-based compensation expense   28    25 
ESOP expense   139    146 
Excess tax benefits from equity incentive plan   (1)   (1)
Net gains on sales of securities   (817)   (29)
Loss on prepayment of borrowings   593     
Income from bank-owned life insurance   (367)   (379)
Changes in assets and liabilities:          
Accrued interest receivable   62    81 
Other assets   228    169 
Other liabilities   638    207 
Net cash provided by operating activities   3,881    3,449 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:          
Securities, held to maturity:          
Purchases   (2,619)    
Proceeds from calls, maturities, and principal collections   13,218    2,406 
Securities, available for sale:          
Purchases   (81,243)   (12,170)
Proceeds from sales   52,711    13,003 
Proceeds from calls, maturities, and principal collections   11,334    9,323 
Purchase of residential mortgages   (6,209)   (7,468)
Loan originations and principal payments, net   304    (2,750)
Purchases of premises and equipment   (2,417)   (313)
Proceeds from sale of premises and equipment   23    23 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities   (14,898)   2,054 
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:          
Net increase (decrease) in deposits   39,085    (10,417)
Net change in short-term borrowings   (11,372)   10,263 
Repayment of long-term debt   (20,593)    
Proceeds from long-term debt   36    35 
Return of dividends issued in connection with equity incentive plan       121 
Cash dividends paid   (531)   (1,129)
Common stock repurchased   (1,675)   (2,749)
Excess tax benefits in connection with equity incentive plan   1    1 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   4,951    (3,875)
           
NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:   (6,066)   1,628 
Beginning of period   18,785    19,742 
End of period  $12,719   $21,370 
           
Supplemental cash flow information:          
Securities reclassified to loan portfolio  $   $606 
Interest paid   2,631    2,395 
Taxes paid   35    41 
Net cash due to broker for common stock repurchased       195 

 

See the accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

5
 

 

WESTFIELD FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

 

MARCH 31, 2015

 

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 13 banking offices in western Massachusetts and Granby and Enfield, Connecticut, and its primary sources of revenue are 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, 2015, 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, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the year ending December 31, 2015. 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, 2014, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 (the “2014 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. No dilutive potential shares were outstanding during the periods presented. Share-based compensation awards that qualify as participating securities (entitled to receive non-forfeitable dividends) are included in basic earnings per share.

 

Earnings per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 have been computed based on the following:

 

   Three Months Ended
   March 31,
   2015  2014
   (In thousands, except per share data)
       
Net income applicable to common stock  $1,338   $1,648 
           
Average number of common shares issued   18,725    19,933 
Less: Average unallocated ESOP Shares   (1,041)   (1,120)
           
Average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate basic and diluted earnings per common share   17,684    18,813 
           
Basic and diluted earnings per share  $0.08   $0.09 

 

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,
2015
  December 31,
2014
    (In thousands)
         
Net unrealized gains on securities available for sale   $ 1,065     $ 668  
Tax effect     (364 )     (226 )
Net-of-tax amount     701       442  
                 
Net unrealized losses on securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity     (1,863 )     (1,787 )
Tax effect     643       617  
Net-of-tax amount     (1,220 )     (1,170 )
                 
Fair value of derivatives used for cash flow hedges     (8,377 )     (5,739 )
Tax effect     2,848       1,951  
Net-of-tax amount     (5,529 )     (3,788 )
                 
Unrecognized deferred loss pertaining to defined benefit plan     (4,515 )     (4,484 )
Tax effect     1,535       1,525  
 Net-of-tax amount     (2,980 )     (2,959 )
                 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   $ (9,028 )   $ (7,475 )

 

The following table presents changes in accumulated other loss for the periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 by component:

 

   Securities  Derivatives  Defined Benefit Plans  Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
   (In thousands)
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)
                     
Balance at December 31, 2014  $(728)  $(3,788)  $(2,959)  $(7,475)
Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)   209    (1,741)   (21)   (1,553)
Balance at March 31, 2015  $(519)  $(5,529)  $(2,980)  $(9,028)

 

8
 

 

4. SECURITIES

 

Securities available for sale and held to maturity are summarized as follows:

 

   March 31, 2015
   Amortized Cost  Gross Unrealized Gains  Gross Unrealized Losses  Fair Value
   (In thousands)
Available for sale securities:            
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities  $166,048   $474   $(445)  $166,077 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   8,819        (41)   8,778 
Corporate bonds   23,433    505    (5)   23,933 
State and municipal bonds   12,485    369        12,854 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   14,100    79    (24)   14,155 
Mutual funds   6,331    34    (119)   6,246 
Common and preferred stock   1,309    239        1,548 
                     
Total available for sale securities   232,525    1,700    (634)   233,591 
                     
Held to maturity securities:                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities  $160,526   $3,064   $(487)  $163,103 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   40,939    161    (615)   40,485 
Corporate bonds   24,556    220    (44)   24,732 
State and municipal bonds   7,268    72    (94)   7,246 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   33,429    449    (449)   33,429 
                     
Total held to maturity securities   266,718    3,966    (1,689)   268,995 
                     
Total  $499,243   $5,666   $(2,323)  $502,586 

 

   December 31, 2014
   Amortized Cost  Gross Unrealized Gains  Gross Unrealized Losses  Fair Value
   (In thousands)
Available for sale securities:            
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities  $139,637   $423   $(847)  $139,213 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   1,591    7    (12)   1,586 
Corporate bonds   25,711    532    (20)   26,223 
State and municipal bonds   16,472    562        17,034 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   24,066    69    (156)   23,979 
Mutual funds   6,296    8    (128)   6,176 
Common and preferred stock   1,309    230        1,539 
                     
Total available for sale securities   215,082    1,831    (1,163)   215,750 
                     
Held to maturity securities:                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   164,001    2,384    (1,453)   164,932 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   38,566    34    (607)   37,993 
Corporate bonds   24,751    76    (248)   24,579 
State and municipal bonds   7,285    59    (94)   7,250 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   43,477    257    (852)   42,882 
                     
Total held to maturity securities   278,080    2,810    (3,254)   277,636 
                     
Total  $493,162   $4,641   $(4,417)  $493,386 

 

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, 2015, 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, 2015
    Securities   Securities
    Available for Sale   Held to Maturity
    Amortized Cost   Fair Value   Amortized Cost   Fair Value
    (In thousands)
Mortgage-backed securities:                
 Due in one year or less   $ 5,041     $ 5,107     $     $  
 Due after five years through ten years     17,215       17,196       46,420       46,242  
 Due after ten years     152,611       152,552       155,045       157,346  
Total   $ 174,867     $ 174,855     $ 201,465     $ 203,588  
                                 
Debt securities:                                
 Due in one year or less   $ 1,651     $ 1,665     $ 379     $ 380  
 Due after one year through five years     40,386       41,083       19,845       19,811  
 Due after five years through ten years     7,795       7,989       40,809       41,081  
 Due after ten years     186       205       4,220       4,135  
Total   $ 50,018     $ 50,942     $ 65,253     $ 65,407  

 

Gross realized gains and losses on sales of securities available for sale for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended
   March 31,
   2015  2014
   (In thousands)
       
Gross gains realized  $887   $193 
Gross losses realized   (70)   (164)
Net gain realized  $817   $29 

 

 

Proceeds from the sale of securities available for sale amounted to $53.0 million and $13.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

The tax provision applicable to net realized gains and losses was $281,000 and $9,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

10
 

 

Information pertaining to securities with gross unrealized losses at March 31, 2015, and December 31, 2014, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous loss position are as follows:

 

    March 31, 2015
    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   $ 349     $ 68,427     $ 96     $ 10,988  
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities     33       8,114       8       664  
Corporate bonds                 5       1,495  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations     11       3,989       13       3,487  
Mutual funds                 119       1,766  
                                 
Total available for sale     393       80,530       241       18,400  
                                 
Held to maturity:                                
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities     257       35,262       230       24,748  
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities     611       12,654       4       11,286  
Corporate bonds     21       5,742       23       11,010  
State and municipal bonds                 94       4,388  
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations                 449       23,558  
                                 
Total held to maturity     889       53,658       800       74,990  
                                 
Total   $ 1,282     $ 134,188     $ 1,041     $ 93,390  

 

11
 

 

   December 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  $47   $20,637   $800   $56,830 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities           12    677 
Corporate bonds   17    4,438    3    1,497 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   52    9,189    104    7,396 
Mutual funds           128    5,103 
                     
Total available for sale   116    34,264    1,047    71,503 
                     
Held to maturity:                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   200    10,292    1,253    65,526 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities           607    31,951 
Corporate bonds   128    5,684    120    13,918 
State and municipal bonds           94    4,853 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations           852    33,224 
                     
Total held to maturity   328    15,976    2,926    149,472 
                     
Total  $444   $50,240   $3,973   $220,975 

 

   March 31, 2015
   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   26   $104,295   $606    0.6%   8   $36,062   $326    0.9%
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   3    21,412    644    3.0    3    11,962    12    0.1 
Government sponsored enterprise obligations   2    4,000    11    0.3    6    27,507    462    1.7 
Corporate Bonds   1    5,763    21    0.4    4    12,533    28    0.2 
State and municipal bonds                   9    4,482    94    2.1 
Mutual funds                   1    1,885    119    6.3 
        $135,470   $1,282             $94,431   $1,041      

 

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,
   2015  2014
   (In thousands)
Commercial real estate  $287,083   $278,405 
Residential real estate:          
Residential   237,125    237,436 
Home equity   40,416    40,305 
Commercial and industrial   162,938    165,728 
Consumer   1,426    1,542 
 Total Loans   728,988    723,416 
Unearned premiums and deferred loan fees and costs, net   1,366    1,270 
Allowance for loan losses   (8,035)   (7,948)
   $722,319   $716,738 

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, we purchased residential real estate loans aggregating $6.2 million and $7.5 million, respectively. None were deemed credit impaired at the time of acquisition.

 

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, 2015 and December 31, 2014, we serviced loans for participants aggregating $18.7 million and $20.5 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, if any, 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, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:

 

    Commercial Real Estate   Residential Real Estate   Commercial and Industrial   Consumer   Unallocated   Total
    (In thousands)
Three Months Ended    
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  
                                                 
Balance at December 31, 2014   $ 3,705     $ 2,053     $ 2,174     $ 15     $ 1     $ 7,948  
Provision (credit)     134       (76 )     247       11       (16 )     300  
Charge-offs                 (212 )     (13 )           (225 )
Recoveries           1       2       9             12  
Balance at March 31, 2015   $ 3,839     $ 1,978     $ 2,211     $ 22     $ (15 )   $ 8,035  

 

Further information pertaining to the allowance for loan losses by segment at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 follows:

 

   Commercial Real Estate  Residential Real Estate  Commercial and Industrial  Consumer  Unallocated  Total
   (In thousands)
March 31, 2015                  
                   
Amount of allowance for loans individually evaluated and deemed impaired  $   $   $   $   $   $ 
Amount of allowance for loans collectively or individually evaluated for impairment and not deemed impaired   3,839    1,978    2,211    22    (15)   8,035 
Total allowance for loan losses  $3,839   $1,978   $2,211   $22   $(15)  $8,035 
                               
Loans individually evaluated and deemed impaired  $3,061   $287   $4,010   $   $   $7,358 
Loans collectively or individually evaluated and not deemed impaired   284,022    277,254    158,928    1,426        721,630 
Total loans  $287,083   $277,541   $162,938   $1,426   $   $728,988 
                               
December 31, 2014                              
                               
Amount of allowance for loans individually evaluated and deemed impaired  $   $   $   $   $   $ 
Amount of allowance for loans collectively or individually evaluated for impairment and not deemed impaired   3,705    2,053    2,174    15    1    7,948 
Total allowance for loan losses   3,705    2,053    2,174    15    1    7,948 
                               
Loans individually evaluated and deemed impaired   3,104    291    4,436            7,831 
Loans collectively or individually evaluated and not deemed impaired   275,301    277,450    161,292    1,542        715,585 
Total loans  $278,405   $277,741   $165,728   $1,542   $   $723,416 

 

15
 

 

The following is a summary of past due and non-accrual loans by class at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:

 

   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, 2015                  
Commercial real estate  $178   $142   $522   $842   $   $3,211 
Residential real estate:                              
Residential   629        975    1,604        1,305 
Home equity   153        1    154        1 
Commercial and industrial   628    205    515    1,348        3,811 
Consumer   35    3        38        12 
Total  $1,623   $350   $2,013   $3,986   $   $8,340 
                               
December 31, 2014                              
Commercial real estate  $3,003   $   $529   $3,532   $   $3,257 
Residential real estate:                              
Residential   314    61    1,158    1,533        1,323 
Home equity   252        1    253        1 
Commercial and industrial   169        394    563        4,233 
Consumer   22        3    25        16 
Total  $3,760   $61   $2,085   $5,906   $   $8,830 

 

 

The following is a summary of impaired loans by class at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:

 

            Three Months Ended
   At March 31, 2015  March 31, 2015
   Recorded Investment  Unpaid Principal Balance  Related Allowance  Average Recorded Investment  Interest Income Recognized
   (In thousands)
Impaired loans without a valuation allowance:            
Commercial real estate  $3,061   $3,661   $   $3,082   $ 
Residential real estate   287    406        289     
Commercial and industrial   4,010    5,015        4,223     
Total   7,358    9,082        7,594     
                          
Impaired loans with a valuation allowance:                    
Commercial real estate                    
Commercial and industrial                    
Total                    
                          
Total impaired loans  $7,358   $9,082   $   $7,594   $ 

 

16
 

 

            Three Months Ended
   At December 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  $3,104   $3,662   $   $1,440   $ 
Residential real estate   291    407        224     
Commercial and industrial   4,436    5,181        576     
Total   7,831    9,250        2,240     
                          
Impaired loans with a valuation allowance:                    
Commercial real estate               13,471    143 
Commercial and industrial               964    10 
Total               14,435    153 
                          
Total impaired loans  $7,831   $9,250   $   $16,675   $153 

 

All interest income recognized for impaired loans during the three months ended March 31, 2014 related to performing TDR loans and was recognized on the accrual basis.

 

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 measure 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, 2015 or 2014.

 

A default occurs when a loan is 30 days or more past due and is within 12 months of restructuring. No TDRs defaulted during the three months ended March 31, 2015 or 2014.

 

There were $212,000 in charge-offs on TDRs during the three months ended March 31, 2015. There were no charge-offs on TDRs during the three months ended March 31, 2014.

 

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.

 

17
 

 

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 $11.5 million and $16.8 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, 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. In addition, management utilizes delinquency reports, the watch list and other loan reports to monitor credit quality in other segments.

 

The following table presents our loans by risk rating at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:

 

   Commercial Real Estate  Residential 1-4 Family  Home Equity  Commercial and Industrial  Consumer  Total
   (In thousands)
March 31, 2015                  
Loans rated 1 – 3  $244,872   $235,820   $40,415   $136,636   $1,414   $659,157 
Loans rated 4   34,147            5,887        40,034 
Loans rated 5   758            10,102        10,860 
Loans rated 6   7,306    1,305    1    10,258    12    18,882 
Loans rated 7               55        55 
   $287,083   $237,125   $40,416   $162,938   $1,426   $728,988 
                               
December 31, 2014                              
Loans rated 1 – 3  $234,010   $236,113   $40,282   $139,109   $1,526   $651,040 
Loans rated 4   33,305            16,841        50,146 
Loans rated 5   7,833        22    5,545        13,400 
Loans rated 6   3,257    1,323    1    4,233    16    8,830 
   $278,405   $237,436   $40,305   $165,728   $1,542   $723,416 

 

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6. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

 

Restricted Stock Awards – During 2002 and 2007, we adopted equity incentive plans under which 652,664 and 624,041 shares, respectively, were reserved for issuance as restricted stock awards to directors and employees, all of which are currently issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2015.

 

In May 2014, our shareholders approved a new stock-based compensation plan under which up to 516,000 shares of our common stock have been reserved for future grants of stock awards, including stock options and restricted stock, which may be granted to any officer, key employee or non-employee director of Westfield Financial. Shares issued upon vesting may be either authorized but unissued shares or reacquired shares held by us. Any shares not issued because vesting requirements are not met will again be available for issuance under the plans.

 

Restricted shares awarded vest ratably over five years. The fair market value of shares awarded, based on the market price at the date of grant, is recorded as unearned compensation and amortized over the applicable vesting period. 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. At March 31, 2015, 48,560 shares had been granted under this plan.

 

Our stock award and stock option plans activity for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 is summarized below:

 

    Unvested Stock Awards Outstanding
    Shares   Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2014     13,000     $ 8.07  
Shares granted     48,560     $ 7.18  
Outstanding at March 31, 2015     61,560     $ 7.37  
                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2013     25,720     $ 7.93  
No activity            
Outstanding at March 31, 2014     25,720     $ 7.93  

 

We recorded compensation cost related to the stock awards of $28,000 and $25,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

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 $44.5 million and $62.8 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. There were no advances outstanding on the line of credit as of March 31, 2015. At December 31, 2014, there was a $1.8 million advance outstanding under this line. Customer repurchase agreements were $38.1 million at March 31, 2015 and $31.2 million at December 31, 2014. 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, 2015 and December 31, 2014, 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, 2015 or December 31, 2014. 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.

 

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Long-term debt consists of FHLBB advances and customer repurchase agreements with an original maturity of one year or more. At March 31, 2015, we had $206.8 million in long-term debt with the FHLBB. This compares to $216.7 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, 2014. Long-term customer repurchase agreements were $5.8 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2015, we prepaid repurchase agreements in the amount $10.0 million and incurred a prepayment expense of $593,000. The repurchase agreements had an average cost of 2.65%. The prepayment of this repurchase agreement should result 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 December 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,
   2015  2014
   (In thousands)
Service cost  $309   $250 
Interest cost   226    206 
Expected return on assets   (284)   (240)
Amortization of transition asset       (3)
Amortization of actuarial loss   31     
Net periodic pension cost  $282   $213 

 

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 2015. No contributions have been made to the plan for the three months ended March 31, 2015. The pension plan assets are invested in group annuity contracts with the Principal Financial Group, who also acts as our 401(k) plan third-party administrator.

 

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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, 2015 and December 31, 2014.

 

March 31, 2015  Asset Derivatives  Liability Derivatives
   Balance Sheet Location  Fair Value  Balance Sheet Location  Fair Value
   (In thousands)
             
Interest rate swaps  Other Assets  $   Other Liabilities  $8,377 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments     $      $8,377 

   

December 31, 2014  Asset Derivatives  Liability Derivatives
   Balance Sheet Location  Fair Value  Balance Sheet Location  Fair Value
   (In thousands)
             
Interest rate swaps  Other Assets  $9   Other Liabilities  $5,748 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments     $9      $5,748 

 

 

At March 31, 2015, 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.

 

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The following table presents information about our cash flow hedges at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:

 

 March 31, 2015  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  $40,000    3.0    0.25%   1.52%  $(559)
Forward starting interest rate swaps on FHLBB borrowings   115,000    6.4        3.11%   (7,818)
Total cash flow hedges  $155,000    5.5             $(8,377)

 

 December 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  $40,000    3.3    0.23%   1.52%  $(268)
Forward starting interest rate swaps on FHLBB borrowings   115,000    6.7        3.11%   (5,471)
Total cash flow hedges  $155,000    5.8             $(5,739)

 

The forward-starting interest rate swaps will become effective in 2015 and 2016 with notional amounts of $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, 2015.

 

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 $131,000 and $46,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, no gains or losses were reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income for ineffectiveness on cash flow hedges.

 

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,
   2015  2014
   (In thousands)
Interest rate swaps  $(2,769)  $(2,390)

 

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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, 2015, 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 $8.5 million. As of March 31, 2015, 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, 2015, 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 or liabilities; 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 or liabilities.

 

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.

 

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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.

 

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

  

   March 31, 2015
   Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Total
Assets:  (In thousands)
    
Securities available for sale:   
Government-sponsored residential mortgage-backed securities  $   $166,077   $   $166,077 
U.S. government guaranteed residential mortgage-backed securities       8,778        8,778 
Corporate bonds       23,933        23,933 
State and municipal bonds       12,854        12,854 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations       14,155        14,155 
Mutual funds   6,246            6,246 
Common and preferred stock   1,548            1,548 
Total assets  $7,794   $225,797   $   $233,591 
                     
Liabilities:                    
Interest rate swaps, net  $   $8,377   $   $8,377 

 

  December 31, 2014
  Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Total 
Assets:  (In thousands)
             
Government-sponsored residential mortgage-backed securities  $   $139,213   $   $139,213 
U.S. Government guaranteed residential mortgage-backed securities       1,586        1,586 
Corporate bonds       26,223        26,223 
State and municipal bonds       17,034        17,034 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations       23,979        23,979 
Mutual funds   6,176            6,176 
Common and preferred stock   1,539            1,539 
Total securities available for sale   7,715    208,035        215,750 
Interest rate swaps       9        9 
Total assets  $7,715   $208,044   $   $215,759 
Liabilities:                    
Interest rate swaps  $   $5,748   $   $5,748 

 

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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, 2015 and 2015. Total losses represent the change in carrying value as a result of fair value adjustments related to assets still held at March 31, 2015 and 2014.

 

   At March 31, 2015  Three Months Ended March 31, 2015
   Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Total
Losses
   (In thousands)  (In thousands)
Impaired loans  $   $   $2,237   $(212)
Total assets  $   $   $2,237   $(212)

  

   At March 31, 2014  Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
   Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Total
Losses
   (In thousands)  (In thousands)
Impaired loans  $   $   $96   $(15)
Total assets  $   $   $96   $(15)

 

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, 2015 and 2014. We did not measure any liabilities at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis on the consolidated balance sheets.

 

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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, 2015
   Carrying Value  Fair Value
      Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Total
   (In thousands)
Assets:               
Cash and cash equivalents  $12,719   $12,719   $   $   $12,719 
Securities available for sale   233,591    7,794    225,797        233,591 
Securities held to maturity   266,718        268,995        268,995 
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston and other restricted stock   14,934            14,934    14,934 
Loans - net   722,319            728,377    728,377 
Accrued interest receivable   4,151            4,151    4,151 
                          
Liabilities:                         
Deposits   873,303            874,633    874,633 
Short-term borrowings   82,625        82,626        82,626 
Long-term debt   212,637        216,837        216,837 
Accrued interest payable   467            467    467 
Derivative liabilities   8,377        8,377        8,377 

 

   December 31, 2014
   Carrying Value  Fair Value
      Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Total
   (In thousands)
Assets:               
Cash and cash equivalents  $18,785   $18,785   $   $   $18,785 
Securities available for sale   215,750    7,715    208,035        215,750 
Securities held to maturity   278,080        277,636        277,636 
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston and other restricted stock   14,934            14,934    14,934 
Loans - net   716,738            721,818    721,818 
Accrued interest receivable   4,213            4,213    4,213 
Derivative assets   9        9        9 
                          
Liabilities:                         
Deposits   834,218            834,838    834,838 
Short-term borrowings   93,997        93,997        93,997 
Long-term debt   232,479        236,457        236,457 
Accrued interest payable   501            501    501 
Derivative liabilities   5,748        5,748        5,748 

 

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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.

 

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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, 2015 in the context of this strategy.

 

·Net income was $1.3 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to $1.6 million, or $0.09 per diluted share, for the same period in 2014.

 

·The provision for loan losses was $300,000 and $100,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The increase in provision expense from the comparable 2014 period was primarily driven by new loan growth.

 

·Net interest income was $7.6 and $7.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 2.52% for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to 2.63% for the same period in 2014. The decrease in net interest income was primarily due to a 7 basis point decrease in the yield on average interest-earning assets along with a 4 basis point increase in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities, which was offset partially by a $39.9 million increase in the average balance of interest-earning assets.

 

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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, 2015. 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 2014 Annual Report.

 

COMPARISON OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AT MARCH 31, 2015 AND DECEMBER 31, 2014

 

Total assets were stable at $1.3 billion at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. Securities increased $6.4 million to $515.2 million at March 31, 2015, from $508.8 million at December 31, 2014.

 

Total loans increased by $5.7 million to $730.4 million at March 31, 2015 from $724.7 million at December 31, 2014. Commercial real estate loans increased $8.7 million to $287.1 million at March 31, 2015 from $278.4 at December 31, 2014. Non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans increased $8.5 million to $177.6 million at March 31, 2015 from $169.1 million at December 31, 2014, while owner occupied commercial real estate loans increased $200,000 to $109.5 million at March 31, 2015, from $109.3 million at December 31, 2014. Commercial and industrial loans decreased $2.8 million to $162.9 million at March 31, 2015 from $165.7 million at December 31, 2014. The decrease in commercial and industrial loans from December 31, 2014 was due to normal loan payments and payoffs.

 

Residential loans decreased $200,000 to $277.5 million at March 31, 2015 from $277.7 million at December 31, 2014. We purchased $4.9 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 $124,000 and $43,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, there was no real estate in foreclosure. At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, our nonperforming loans to total loans were 1.14% and 1.22%, respectively, while our nonperforming assets to total assets were 0.63% and 0.67%, respectively. A summary of our nonaccrual and past due loans by class are listed in Note 5 of the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

Total deposits increased $39.1 million to $873.3 million at March 31, 2015 from $834.2 million at December 31, 2014. The increase in deposits was due to a $25.8 million increase in time deposit accounts, which were $383.5 million and $357.7 million at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. Money market accounts increased $8.4 million to $235.7 million at March 31, 2015 from $227.3 million at December 31, 2014. Checking account increased $3.9 million to $178.1 million at March 31, 2015 from $174.2 million at December 31, 2014. Regular savings accounts increased $1.0 million to $76.0 million at March 31, 2015 from $75.0 million at December 31, 2014, respectively.

 

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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 through 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.

 

Borrowings decreased $31.2 million to $295.3 million at March 31, 2015 from $326.5 million at December 31, 2014. Long-term debt decreased $19.9 million to $212.6 million at March 31, 2015 from $232.5 million at December 31, 2014. We prepaid a $10.0 million repurchase agreement with a cost of 2.65% and incurred a prepayment expense of $593,000 for the first quarter 2015. Short-term borrowings decreased $11.4 million to $82.6 million at March 31, 2015 from $94.0 million at December 31, 2014 primarily due to a decrease in short-term FHLBB funding. Our short-term borrowings and long-term debt are discussed in Note 7 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

 

Shareholders’ equity was $140.3 million and $142.5 million, which represented 10.6% and 10.8% of total assets at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. The decrease in shareholders’ equity during the quarter reflects the repurchase of 225,041 shares of our common stock at a cost of $1.7 million pursuant to our stock repurchase program, a decrease in other comprehensive income of $1.6 million due to changes in the market value of interest rate swaps and the payment of regular dividends amounting to $531,000. This was partially offset by net income of $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015.

 

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2015 AND MARCH 31, 2014

 

General

 

Net income was $1.3 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, for the quarter ended March 31, 2015, compared to $1.6 million, or $0.09 per diluted share, for the same period in 2014. Net interest income was $7.6 million and $7.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, 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, 2015 and 2014, 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.

 

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   Three Months Ended March 31,
   2015  2014
   Average     Avg Yield/  Average     Avg Yield/
   Balance  Interest  Cost  Balance  Interest  Cost
   (Dollars in thousands)
ASSETS:                  
Interest-earning assets                  
Loans(1)(2)  $727,447   $7,260    3.99%  $640,855   $6,595    4.12%
Securities(2)   481,919    2,975    2.47    530,046    3,506    2.65 
Other investments - at cost   16,234    68    1.68    17,530    65    1.48 
Short-term investments(3)   15,744    6    0.15    13,017    6    0.18 
Total interest-earning assets   1,241,344    10,309    3.32    1,201,448    10,172    3.39 
Total noninterest-earning assets   78,084              72,994           
                               
Total assets  $1,319,428             $1,274,442           
                               
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY:                              
Interest-bearing liabilities                              
Interest-bearing accounts  $38,079    21    0.22   $42,892    28    0.26 
Savings accounts   75,725    19    0.10    80,462    20    0.10 
Money market accounts   233,418    220    0.38    210,884    193    0.37 
Time certificates of deposit   368,463    1,081    1.17    340,428    1,050    1.23 
Total interest-bearing deposits   715,685    1,341         674,666    1,291      
Short-term borrowings and long-term debt   308,379    1,257    1.63    308,642    1,088    1.41 
Interest-bearing liabilities   1,024,064    2,598    1.01    983,308    2,379    0.97 
Noninterest-bearing deposits   134,902              129,423           
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities   18,473              9,077           
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities   153,375              138,500           
                               
Total liabilities   1,177,439              1,121,808           
Total equity   141,990              152,634           
Total liabilities and equity  $1,319,429             $1,274,442           
Less: Tax-equivalent adjustment(2)        (121)             (138)     
Net interest and dividend income       $7,590             $7,655      
Net interest rate spread(4)             2.31%             2.42%
Net interest margin(5)             2.52%             2.63%
Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities            121.22               122.18  

_______________________

 

(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.

 

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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, 2015 compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
   Increase (Decrease) Due to   
   Volume  Rate  Net
Interest-earning assets  (In thousands)
Loans (1)  $891   $(226)  $665 
Securities (1)   (318)   (213)   (531)
Other investments - at cost   (5)   8    3 
Short-term investments   1    (1)    
Total interest-earning assets   569    (432)   137 
                
Interest-bearing liabilities               
Interest-bearing accounts   (3)   (4)   (7)
Savings accounts   (1)       (1)
Money market accounts   21    6    27 
Time deposits   86    (55)   31 
Short-term borrowing and long-time debt   (1)   170    169 
Total interest-bearing liabilities   102    117    219 
Change in net interest and dividend income (1)  $467   $(549)  $(82)

__________________________

 

(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 $7.6 million and $7.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 2.52% for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to 2.63% for the same period in 2014.

 

The decrease in net interest income was primarily driven by a 7 basis point reduction in the yield on interest-earning assets along with a 4 basis point increase in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities, both partially offset by an increase in average interest-earnings assets for the three months ended March 31, 2015. The average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 7 basis points to 3.32% for the three months ended March 31, 2015 from 3.39% for the same period in 2014. While the 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 $48.1 million to $481.9 million from $530.0 million, while the average balance of loans increased $86.6 million to $727.4 million from $640.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 from the same period in 2014. Interest on earning-assets, on a tax-equivalent basis, increased $137,000 to $10.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, from $10.2 million for the same period in 2014. The average balance of interest-earning assets increased $39.9 million to $1.2 billion for March 31, 2015. The change in average asset balances is the result of continued loan growth along with executing on our strategy to gradually shift our asset mix out of securities and into loans.

 

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Interest expense increased $219,000 to $2.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 from $2.4 million for the same period in 2014. The average cost of interest-bearing liabilities increased 4 basis points to 1.01% for the three months ended March 31, 2015 from 0.97% for the same period in 2014. The increase in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities was primarily due to an increase in rates on short-term borrowings and long-term debt and increases in the average balances of money markets and time deposits, partially offset by a decrease in the rates on time deposits. The cost of short-term borrowing and long-term debt increased 22 basis points to 1.63% for the three months ended March 31, 2015 from 1.41% for the three months ended March 31, 2014. This was primarily due to the conversion of LIBOR based rates of interest on certain FHLBB advances to fixed interest rates in conjunction with our interest rate swaps. During the first quarter 2015, we prepaid a $10.0 million repurchase agreement that had a cost of 2.65% in order to eliminate a higher-cost borrowing. While the average balance of time deposit accounts increased $28.0 million to $368.5 for the three months ended March 31, 2015, the interest expense on time deposits was stable at $1.1 million due to a 6 basis point decrease in the cost of time deposits to 1.17% for the three months ended March 31, 2015 from 1.23% for the comparable 2014 period. In addition, the average balance of money market accounts increased $22.5 million to $233.4 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 from $210.9 million for the comparable 2014 period.

 

Provision for Loan Losses

 

The amount that we provided for loan losses during the three months ended March 31, 2015 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 loan charge-offs, which were partially offset by a decrease in commercial and industrial loans. After evaluating these factors, we recorded a provision for loan losses of $300,000 and $100,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The allowance was $8.0 million and $7.9 million and 1.10% of total loans at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.

 

Commercial real estate loans increased $8.7 million to $287.1 million at March 31, 2015 from $278.4 at December 31, 2014. Non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans increased $8.5 million to $177.6 million at March 31, 2015 from $169.1 million at December 31, 2014, while owner occupied commercial real estate loans increased $200,000 to $109.5 million at March 31, 2015, from $109.3 million at December 31, 2014. Commercial and industrial loans decreased $2.8 million to $162.9 million at March 31, 2015 from $165.7 million at December 31, 2014.

 

Net charge-offs were $213,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015. This comprised charge-offs of $225,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015, offset partially by recoveries of $12,000 for the same period.

 

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.

 

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 $151,000 to $1.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, compared to $1.1 million for the same period in 2014. Net gains on the sale of securities increased $788,000 to $817,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015, however, we also incurred $593,000 in expense on the prepayment of borrowings during the three months ended March 31, 2015. Service charges and fees decreased $32,000 to $638,000 at March 31, 2015, from $670,000 at March 31, 2014. The 2014 period included the collection of $97,000 in prepayment fees on a commercial loan relationship that paid off early. Fees collected from card-based transactions increased $34,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015, which reflects an increase in customer debit card and automated teller machine transactions.

 

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Noninterest Expense

 

Noninterest expense increased $177,000 to $6.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, from $6.5 million for the comparable 2014 period. Occupancy expense increased $79,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015, primarily due to new locations in Enfield, CT and Springfield, MA. Data processing expense increased $70,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 due to normal increases in this area. Salaries and benefits remained consistent at $3.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, primarily due to the effect of noninterest expense cost control initiatives enacted in 2014.

 

Income Taxes

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2015, we had a tax provision of $470,000 as compared to $451,000 for the same period in 2014. The effective tax rate was 26.0% for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 21.5% for the same period in 2014. The change in effective tax rate from March 31, 2014 reflects lower levels of tax-advantaged income such as bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”) and lower levels of tax-exempt municipal obligations.

 

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, 2015, was $125.4 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, against which there were no advances outstanding as of March 31, 2015. The interest rates on these lines are determined and reset on a daily basis by each respective bank.

 

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.

 

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In July 2013, federal banking regulators approved final rules that implement changes to the regulatory capital framework for U.S. banks. The rules set minimum requirements for both the quantity and quality of capital held by community banking institutions. The final rule includes a new minimum ratio of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk weighted assets of 4.5%, raises the minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets from 4% to 6% and includes a minimum leverage ratio of 4% for all banking organizations. Additionally, community banking institutions must maintain a capital conservation buffer of common equity Tier 1 capital in an amount greater than 2.5% of total risk-weighted assets to avoid being subject to limitations on capital distributions and discretionary bonus payments to executive officers. The phase-in period for the rules began for the Bank on January 1, 2015, with full compliance with all of the final rule’s requirements phased in over a multi-year schedule. The final rules also apply, effective January 1, 2015, consolidated capital requirements to the Company that are not less stringent than those applicable to the Bank.

 

At March 31, 2015, we exceeded each of the applicable regulatory capital requirements. As of March 31, 2015, 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 2.0% 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, 2015, and December 31, 2014, are also presented in the following table.

 

   Actual  Minimum For Capital Adequacy Purpose  Minimum To Be Well Capitalized
   Amount  Ratio  Amount  Ratio  Amount  Ratio
   (Dollars in thousands)
March 31, 2015                  
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                  
Consolidated  $157,482    17.76%  $70,929    8.00%    N/A      N/A  
Bank   149,904    16.93    70,823    8.00   $88,528    10.00%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated   149,318    16.84    53,197    6.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   141,809    16.02    53,117    6.00    70,823    8.00 
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets)                              
Consolidated   149,318    16.84    39,897    4.50     N/A      N/A  
Bank   141,809    16.02    39,838    4.50    57,543    6.50 
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio (to Adjusted Average Assets):                              
Consolidated   149,318    11.33    52,735    4.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   141,809    10.77    52,682    4.00    65,853    5.00 
Tangible Equity (to Adjusted Total Assets):                              
Consolidated    N/A      N/A      N/A      N/A      N/A      N/A  
Bank   141,809    10.61    26,734    2.00     N/A      N/A  
                               
December 31, 2014                              
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated  $158,016    18.68%  $67,675    8.00%    N/A      
Bank   150,392    17.81    67,549    8.00   $84,436    10.00%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated   150,018    17.73    33,838    4.00     N/A      
Bank   142,383    16.86    33,775    4.00    50,662    6.00 
Tier 1 Capital (to Adjusted Total Assets):                              
Consolidated   150,018    11.30    53,103    4.00     N/A      
Bank   142,383    10.74    53,035    4.00    66,293    5.00 
Tangible Equity (to Tangible Assets):                              
Consolidated    N/A          N/A          N/A      
Bank   142,383    10.74    19,888    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, 2015:

 

   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  $648   $937   $766   $3,784   $6,135 
                          
Borrowings and Debt                         
Federal Home Loan Bank   94,879    116,450    40,000        251,329 
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase   43,933                43,933 
Total borrowings and debt   138,812    116,450    40,000        295,262 
                          
Credit Commitments                         
Available lines of credit   79,692        6    26,806    106,504 
Other loan commitments   51,292    15,689        141    67,122 
Letters of credit   1,998    373    392    270    3,033 
Total credit commitments   132,982    16,062    398    27,217    176,659 
                          
Total Obligations  $272,442   $133,449   $41,164   $31,001   $478,056 

 

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 2014 Annual Report. Please refer to Item 7A of the 2014 Annual Report for additional information.

 

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.

 

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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 2014 Annual Report. There are no material changes in the risk factors relevant to our operations.

 

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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, 2015.

 

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 (1)
January 1 - 31, 2015    23,780    7.24    23,780    975,680 
February 1 - 28, 2015    4,099    7.24    4,099    971,581 
March 1 - 31, 2015    197,162    7.47    197,162    774,419 
Total    225,041    7.44    225,041    774,419 

 

(1)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, 2015.

 

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.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized on May 8, 2015.

  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

 

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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, 2015, 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.

 

 

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