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Western New England Bancorp, Inc. - Quarter Report: 2018 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, 2018

 

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

 

Western New England Bancorp, 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, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer  ☐ Accelerated filer  ☒ Non-accelerated filer☐

 

Smaller reporting company  ☐  Emerging growth company  ☐

 

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

 

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

 

At May 3, 2018, the registrant had 29,942,065 shares of common stock, $0.01 par value, issued and outstanding.

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    Page
       
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS i  
       
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION    
       
Item 1. Financial Statements of Western New England Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries (Unaudited)    
       
  Consolidated Balance Sheets – March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 1  
       
  Consolidated Statements of Operations – Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 2  
       
  Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income – Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 3  
       
  Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity – Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 4  
       
  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 5  
       
  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 6  
       
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 32  
       
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 40  
       
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 40  
       
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION    
       
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 41  
       
Item 1A. Risk Factors 41  
       
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 42  
       
Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities 42  
       
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 42  
       
Item 5. Other Information 42  
       
Item 6. Exhibits 42  

 

 

 

 

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 operations 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;

 

the inability to realize expected cost savings or achieve other anticipated benefits in connection with business combinations and other acquisitions;

 

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 Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, 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 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. 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - UNAUDITED 

(Dollars in thousands, except share data)

 

   March 31,   December 31, 
   2018   2017 
ASSETS          
CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS  $21,577   $21,607 
FEDERAL FUNDS SOLD   230    322 
INTEREST-BEARING DEPOSITS AND OTHER SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   7,631    5,203 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS   29,438    27,132 
           
SECURITIES AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE – AT FAIR VALUE   266,963    288,416 
MARKETABLE EQUITY SECURITIES – AT FAIR VALUE   6,327     
FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF BOSTON AND OTHER RESTRICTED STOCK - AT COST   14,685    15,553 
LOANS - Net of allowance for loan losses of $11,370 and $10,831 at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively   1,635,620    1,619,850 
PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT, Net   23,653    23,500 
ACCRUED INTEREST RECEIVABLE   5,878    5,946 
BANK-OWNED LIFE INSURANCE   69,204    68,762 
DEFERRED TAX ASSET, Net   9,854    8,784 
GOODWILL   12,487    12,487 
CORE DEPOSIT INTANGIBLE   3,969    4,063 
OTHER ASSETS   7,453    8,577 
TOTAL ASSETS  $2,085,531   $2,083,070 
           
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
LIABILITIES:          
DEPOSITS :          
Non-interest-bearing  $315,482   $311,851 
Interest-bearing   1,238,245    1,194,231 
Total deposits   1,553,727    1,506,082 
           
SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS   55,000    144,650 
LONG-TERM DEBT   212,730    164,786 
SECURITIES PENDING SETTLEMENT   239    304 
OTHER LIABILITIES   21,212    19,967 
TOTAL LIABILITIES   1,842,908    1,835,789 
           
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:          
Preferred stock - $0.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017        
Common stock - $0.01 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized, 30,138,083 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2018; 30,487,309 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2017   302    305 
Additional paid-in capital   199,845    203,527 
Unearned compensation - ESOP   (5,632)   (5,786)
Unearned compensation - Equity Incentive Plan   (1,485)   (791)
Retained earnings   64,675    62,578 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (15,082)   (12,552)
Total shareholders’ equity   242,623    247,281 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY  $2,085,531   $2,083,070 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

1

 

 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS – UNAUDITED 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

   Three Months 
   Ended March 31, 
   2018   2017 
INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME:          
Residential and commercial real estate loans  $13,799   $13,162 
Commercial and industrial loans   2,814    2,575 
Consumer loans   89    89 
Debt securities, taxable   1,748    1,830 
Debt securities, tax-exempt   24    31 
Equity securities   36    35 
Other investments   201    163 
Federal funds sold, interest-bearing deposits and other short-term investments   21    72 
Total interest and dividend income   18,732    17,957 
           
INTEREST EXPENSE:          
Deposits   2,355    2,009 
Long-term debt   855    551 
Short-term borrowings   800    894 
Total interest expense   4,010    3,454 
Net interest and dividend income   14,722    14,503 
           
PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES   500    300 
Net interest and dividend income after provision for loan losses   14,222    14,203 
           
NON-INTEREST INCOME (LOSS):          
Service charges and fees   1,583    1,526 
Income from bank-owned life insurance   442    439 
Losses on securities available-for-sale, net   (201)   (64)
Unrealized losses on marketable equity securities, net   (106)    
Gain on sale of other real estate owned   48     
Other income       116 
Total non-interest income   1,766    2,017 
           
NON-INTEREST EXPENSE:          
Salaries and employee benefits   6,533    6,225 
Occupancy   1,060    1,007 
Furniture and equipment   367    373 
Data processing   637    391 
Professional fees   659    596 
FDIC insurance assessment   158    117 
Merger related expenses       410 
Advertising   347    248 
Other expenses   1,665    1,603 
Total non-interest expense   11,426    10,970 
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES   4,562    5,250 
INCOME TAX PROVISION   1,043    147 
NET INCOME  $3,519   $5,103 
           
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:          
Basic earnings per share  $0.12   $0.17 
Weighted average shares outstanding   29,484,824    29,597,594 
Diluted earnings per share  $0.12   $0.17 
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding   29,620,929    29,878,421 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

2

 

               

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME – UNAUDITED 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

   Three Months Ended March 31, 
   2018   2017 
         
Net income  $3,519   $5,103 
           
Other comprehensive income (loss):          
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities:          
Unrealized holding (losses) gains on available-for-sale securities   (5,116)   426 
Reclassification adjustment for losses realized in income (1)   201    64 
Cumulative-effect adjustment due to change in accounting principle (ASU 2016-01)   237     
Unrealized (losses) gains on securities   (4,678)   490 
Tax effect   1,070    (46)
Net-of-tax amount   (3,608)   444 
           
Cash flow hedges:          
Change in fair value of derivatives used for cash flow hedges   678    53 
Reclassification adjustment for loss realized in interest expense (2)   171    274 
Reclassification adjustment for termination fee realized in interest expense (3)   264    264 
Unrealized gains on cash flow hedges   1,113    591 
Tax effect   (313)   232 
Net-of-tax amount   800    823 
           
Defined benefit pension plan:          
Amortization of defined benefit plan actuarial loss (4)   57    51 
Tax effect   (16)   305 
Net-of-tax amount   41    356 
           
Other comprehensive (loss) income   (2,767)   1,623 
           
Comprehensive income  $752   $6,726 

 

(1) Realized losses on available-for-sale securities are recognized as a component of non-interest income. The tax effects applicable to net realized losses were $(57,000) and $(26,000) for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

(2) Loss realized in interest expense on derivative instruments is recognized as a component of interest expense on short-term debt. Income tax effects associated with the reclassification adjustments were $48,000 and $109,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

(3) Loss realized in interest expense on derivative instruments is recognized as a component of interest expense on short-term debt. Income tax effects associated with the reclassification adjustments were $74,000 and $105,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

(4) Amounts represent the reclassification of defined benefit plans amortization and have been recognized as a component of non-interest expense. Income tax effects associated with the reclassification adjustments were $16,000 and $20,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

3

 

 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY - UNAUDITED

THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2018 AND 2017

(Dollars in thousands, except share data)

 

   Common Stock           Unearned       Accumulated     
   Shares   Par Value   Additional Paid-in Capital   Unearned Compensation- ESOP   Compensation- Equity Incentive Plan   Retained Earnings   Other Comprehensive Loss   Total 
                                 
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2016   30,380,231   $304   $205,996   $(6,418)  $(536)  $51,711   $(12,661)  $238,396 
Comprehensive income                       5,103    1,623    6,726 
Common stock held by ESOP committed to be released (93,679 shares)           58    153                211 
Share-based compensation - equity incentive plan                   162            162 
Common stock repurchased   (321,015)   (3)   (3,071)                   (3,074)
Issuance of common stock in connection with stock option exercises   719,474    7    4,262                    4,269 
Cash dividends declared and paid ($0.03 per share)                       (886)       (886)
BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2017   30,778,690   $308   $207,245   $(6,265)  $(374)  $55,928   $(11,038)  $245,804 
                                         
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2017   30,487,309   $305   $203,527   $(5,786)  $(791)  $62,578   $(12,552)  $247,281 
Comprehensive income                       3,519    (2,767)   752 
Cumulative-effect adjustment due to change in accounting principle (ASU 2016-01)                       (237)   237     
Common stock held by ESOP committed to be released (90,978 shares)           88    154                242 
Share-based compensation - equity incentive plan                   232            232 
Common stock repurchased   (451,641)   (5)   (4,798)                   (4,803)
Issuance of common stock in connection with stock option exercises   16,975    1    103                    104 
Issuance of common stock in connection with equity incentive plan   85,440    1    925        (926)            
Cash dividends declared and paid ($0.04 per share)                       (1,185)       (1,185)
BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2018   30,138,083   $302   $199,845   $(5,632)  $(1,485)  $64,675   $(15,082)  $242,623 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

4

 

 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - UNAUDITED

(Dollars in thousands)

 

   Three Months Ended March 31, 
   2018   2017 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:          
Net income  $3,519   $5,103 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:          
Provision for loan losses   500    300 
Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment   494    475 
Net accretion of purchase accounting adjustments   (225)   (661)
Amortization of core deposit intangible   94    94 
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities and deferred fees and costs on loans   793    1,286 
Net accretion of premiums on modified debt       (1)
Share-based compensation expense   232    162 
ESOP expense   242    211 
Net loss on redemption and sales of securities available-for-sale   201    64 
Unrealized losses on marketable equity securities, net   106     
Gain on sale of other real estate owned   (48)    
Deferred income tax benefit       (973)
Income from bank-owned life insurance   (442)   (439)
Net change in:          
Accrued interest receivable   68    274 
Other assets   977    81 
Other liabilities   2,415    (2,228)
Net cash provided by operating activities   8,926    3,748 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:          
Securities, available for sale:          
Purchases   (2,577)   (35,194)
Proceeds from redemption and sales   5,635    4,530 
Proceeds from calls, maturities, and principal collections   5,966    24,247 
Purchase of residential mortgages       (34,375)
Loan originations and principal payments, net   (16,202)   1,415 
Redemption of Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston stock   868     
Proceeds from sale of other real estate owned   203    292 
Purchases of premises and equipment   (677)   (897)
Proceeds from sale of premises and equipment   20     
Net cash used in investing activities   (6,764)   (39,982)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:          
Net increase in deposits   47,735    3,424 
Net change in short-term borrowings   (89,650)   4,532 
Repayment of long-term debt   (31,992)   (1,982)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt   80,000    888 
Cash dividends paid   (1,185)   (886)
Common stock repurchased   (4,868)   (3,529)
Issuance of common stock in connection with stock option exercises   104    4,269 
Net cash provided by financing activities   144    6,716 
           
NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:   2,306    (29,518)
Beginning of period   27,132    70,234 
End of period  $29,438   $40,716 
           
Supplemental cashflow information:          
Interest paid  $3,969   $3,435 
Taxes paid   30    528 
Net change in cash due to broker for common stock repurchased   (65)   (455)

 

See the accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

5

 

 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

 

MARCH 31, 2018

 

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Nature of OperationsWestern New England Bancorp, Inc. (“Western New England Bancorp,” “WNEB,” the “Company,” “we” or “us”) is a Massachusetts-chartered stock holding company for Westfield 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 21 banking offices in western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut, and its primary sources of revenue are earnings on loans to small and middle-market businesses and to residential property homeowners and income from securities.

 

Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries and Acquisition - Elm Street Securities Corporation, WFD Securities, Inc. and CSB Colts, Inc., are Massachusetts-chartered securities corporations, formed for the primary purpose of holding qualified securities. WB Real Estate Holdings, LLC, is a Massachusetts-chartered limited liability company that holds real property acquired as security for debts previously contracted by the Bank.

 

On October 21, 2016, we acquired Chicopee Bancorp, Inc. (“Chicopee”), the holding company for Chicopee Savings Bank. The acquisition added eight full-service banking offices located in western Massachusetts. The primary purpose of the acquisition with Chicopee was to expand our presence in western Massachusetts and diversify our market area. The transaction qualified as a tax-free reorganization for federal income tax purposes. Merger consideration paid in the transaction to shareholders of Chicopee totaled $98.8 million, consisting of 11,919,412 shares of Company common stock, net of shares of Chicopee already owned, and shares of Chicopee’s ESOP liquidated to pay off the ESOP loan.

 

We accounted for the transaction using the acquisition method. The acquisition method requires an acquirer to recognize the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at fair value as of the acquisition date. Additionally, our results of operations include Chicopee’s operating results from the date of acquisition.

 

Principles of Consolidation – The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Western New England Bancorp, the Bank, CSB Colts, Inc., Elm Street Securities Corporation, WB Real Estate Holdings, LLC and WFD Securities, Inc. 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 and the realizability 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, 2018, 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, 2018 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the year ending December 31, 2018. 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, 2017, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 (the “2017 Annual Report”).

 

6

 

 

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

 

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, 2018 and 2017 have been computed based on the following:

 

   Three Months Ended 
   March 31, 
   2018   2017 
   (In thousands, except per share data) 
         
Net income applicable to common stock  $3,519   $5,103 
           
Average number of common shares issued   30,358    30,508 
Less: Average unallocated ESOP Shares   (791)   (884)
Less: Average unvested equity incentive plan shares   (82)   (26)
           
Average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate basic earnings per common share   29,485    29,598 
          
Effect of dilutive equity incentive plan   35    13 
Effect of dilutive stock options   101    267 
           
Average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per common share   29,621    29,878 
           
Basic earnings per share  $0.12   $0.17 
Diluted earnings per share  $0.12   $0.17 

 

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 (loss).

 

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

 

  

March 31, 

2018 

  

December 31,

2017

 
   (In thousands) 
         
Net unrealized losses on securities available-for-sale  $(10,036)  $(5,358)
Tax effect   2,623    1,316 
Net-of-tax amount   (7,413)   (4,042)
           
Fair value of derivatives used for cash flow hedges   (1,302)   (2,152)
Termination fee on cancelled cash flow hedges   (3,401)   (3,664)
Total derivatives   (4,703)   (5,816)
Tax effect   1,322    1,635 
Net-of-tax amount   (3,381)   (4,181)
           
Unrecognized actuarial loss on defined benefit plan   (5,964)   (6,021)
Tax effect   1,676    1,692 
 Net-of-tax amount   (4,288)   (4,329)
           
Accumulated other comprehensive loss  $(15,082)  $(12,552)

 

The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss for the periods ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 by component:

 

   Securities   Derivatives   Defined Benefit Plan   Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss 
   (In thousands) 
     
Balance at December 31, 2016  $(3,839)  $(5,204)  $(3,618)  $(12,661)
Current-period other comprehensive income (loss)   444    823    356    1,623 
Balance at March 31, 2017  $(3,395)  $(4,381)  $(3,262)  $(11,038)
                     
Balance at December 31, 2017  $(4,042)  $(4,181)  $(4,329)  $(12,552)
Cumulative-effect adjustment due to change in accounting principle (ASU 2016-01)
   237            237 
Current-period other comprehensive (loss) income   (3,608)   800    41    (2,767)
Balance at March 31, 2018  $(7,413)  $(3,381)  $(4,288)  $(15,082)

 

8

 

 

4.       SECURITIES

 

Securities available-for-sale are summarized as follows:

 

   March 31, 2018 
   Amortized Cost   Gross Unrealized Gains   Gross Unrealized Losses   Fair Value 
   (In thousands) 
Available-for-sale securities:                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities  $175,117   $3   $(6,659)  $168,461 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   17,538        (845)   16,693 
Corporate bonds   55,974    3    (1,196)   54,781 
State and municipal bonds   3,220    28    (61)   3,187 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   25,150        (1,309)   23,841 
Total available-for-sale securities  $276,999   $34   $(10,070)  $266,963 

 

    December 31, 2017 
   Amortized Cost   Gross Unrealized Gains   Gross Unrealized Losses   Fair Value 
   (In thousands) 
Available-for-sale securities:                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities  $185,769   $10   $(3,778)  $182,001 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   16,821        (567)   16,254 
Corporate bonds   56,084    352    (292)   56,144 
State and municipal bonds   3,222    36    (19)   3,239 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   25,151        (770)   24,381 
Mutual funds   6,727        (330)   6,397 
Total available-for-sale securities  $293,774   $398   $(5,756)  $288,416 

 

At March 31, 2018, government-sponsored enterprise obligations with a fair value of $6.6 million and mortgage-backed securities with a fair value $60.4 million were pledged to secure public deposits and for other purposes as required or permitted by law.

 

In 2018, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, which affects current U.S. GAAP primarily as it relates to the accounting for equity investments. ASU No. 2016-01 also supersedes the guidance that requires (1) classification of equity securities with readily determinable fair values into different categories (i.e., trading or available-for-sale), and (2) recognition of changes in fair value of available-for-sale securities in other comprehensive income.

 

The main significant effect resulting from the adoption of this ASU is that marketable equity securities reported within securities available-for-sale are now shown as a single line item (“Marketable equity securities”) in the Company’s balance sheet and the recognition in net income of the changes in fair value of marketable equity securities. The cumulative-effect adjustment resulting from the adoption of this Update was to decrease retained earnings and reduce accumulated other comprehensive loss as of January 1, 2018 by $237,000.

 

9

 

 

The amortized cost and fair value of available-for-sale debt securities at March 31, 2018, by final maturity, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain issuers have the right to call or prepay obligations. Also, because mortgage-backed securities require periodic principal paydowns, they are not included in the maturity categories in the following maturity summary.

 

   March 31, 2018 
   Amortized Cost   Fair Value 
   (In thousands) 
Available-for-sale securities:          
Debt securities:          
Due in one year or less  $   $ 
Due after one year through five years   42,680    41,887 
Due after five years through ten years   34,915    33,563 
Due after ten years   6,749    6,359 
Total securities   84,344    81,809 
Mortgage-backed securities   192,655    185,154 
Total  $276,999   $266,963 

 

Gross realized gains and losses on securities available-for-sale for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 are as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended 
   March 31, 
   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 
     
Gross gains realized  $   $ 
Gross losses realized   (201)   (64)
Net loss realized  $(201)  $(64)

 

Proceeds from the redemption of securities available-for-sale amounted to $5.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, while proceeds from the sale of securities available-for-sale amounted to $4.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

 

Information pertaining to securities with gross unrealized losses at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous loss position are as follows:

 

   March 31, 2018 
   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  $1,574   $61,920   $5,085   $106,457 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   58    2,215    787    14,478 
Corporate bonds   1,196    52,473         
State and municipal bonds           61    1,539 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations           1,309    23,841 
Total available-for-sale  $2,828   $116,608   $7,242   $146,315 

 

10

 

 

   December 31, 2017 
   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  $613   $68,538   $3,165   $111,595 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   23    1,205    544    15,049 
Corporate bonds   292    26,016         
State and municipal bonds           19    1,581 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations           770    24,381 
Mutual funds           330    6,397 
Total available-for-sale  $928   $95,759   $4,828   $159,003 

 

   March 31, 2018 
   Less Than 12 Months   Over 12 Months 
   Number of Securities   Amortized Cost Basis   Gross Loss   Depreciation from Amortized Cost Basis (%)   Number of Securities   Amortized Cost Basis   Gross Loss   Depreciation from Amortized Cost Basis (%) 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
     
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   21   $63,494   $1,574    2.5%   54   $111,542   $5,085    4.6%
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   2    2,273    58    2.6    6    15,265    787    5.2 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   0                9    25,150    1,309    5.2 
Corporate bonds   18    53,669    1,196    2.2    0             
State and municipal bonds   0                3    1,600    61    3.8 
        $119,436   $2,828             $153,557   $7,242      

 

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.

 

11

 

 

5.LOANS AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

 

A summary of the balances of loans, at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, follows:

 

   March 31,   December 31, 
   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 
     
Commercial real estate  $746,626   $732,616 
Residential real estate:          
Residential   559,738    557,752 
Home equity   94,051    92,599 
Commercial and industrial   237,337    238,502 
Consumer   4,539    4,478 
Total loans   1,642,291    1,625,947 
Premiums and deferred loan fees and costs, net   4,699    4,734 
Allowance for loan losses   (11,370)   (10,831)
Loans, net  $1,635,620   $1,619,850 

 

There were no purchases of loans during the three months ended March 31, 2018. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, we purchased residential real estate loans aggregating $34.4 million.

 

We have transferred a portion of our originated commercial real estate and commercial and industrial 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, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we serviced commercial loans for participants aggregating $32.5 million and $32.6 million, respectively.

 

Residential real estate loans serviced for others are not included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The unpaid balances of these loans totaled $63.3 million and $65.8 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. Net service fee income of $25,000 and $20,000 was recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and is included in service charges and fees on the consolidated statements of operations.

 

Residential real estate mortgages are originated by the Bank both for its portfolio and for sale into the secondary market. The Bank may sell its loans to institutional investors such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation. Under loan sale and servicing agreements with the investor, the Bank generally continues to service the residential real estate mortgages. The Bank pays the investor an agreed upon rate on the loan, which is less than the interest rate received from the borrower. The Bank retains the difference as a fee for servicing the residential real estate mortgages. The Bank capitalizes mortgage servicing rights at their fair value upon sale of the related loans, amortizes the asset over the estimated life of the serviced loan, and periodically assesses the asset for impairment. The significant assumptions used by a third party to estimate the fair value of capitalized servicing rights at March 31, 2018, include weighted average prepayment speed for the portfolio using the Public Securities Association Standard Prepayment Model (203 PSA), weighted average internal rate of return (10.05%), weighted average servicing fee (0.25%), and average net cost to service loans ($59.08 per loan). The estimated fair value of capitalized servicing rights may vary significantly in subsequent periods primarily due to changing market interest rates, and their effect on prepayment speeds and discount rates.

 

12

 

 

A summary of the activity in the balances of mortgage servicing rights follows:

 

   Three Months Ended March 31, 
   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 
     
Balance at the beginning of period:  $352   $465 
Capitalized mortgage servicing rights        
Amortization   (17)   (29)
Balance at the end of period  $335   $436 
Fair value at the end of period  $537   $605 

 

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.

 

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.

 

13

 

 

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.

 

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, 2018 and 2017 is as follows:

 

   Commercial Real Estate   Residential Real Estate   Commercial and Industrial   Consumer   Unallocated   Total 
   (In thousands) 
Three Months Ended    
Balance at December 31, 2016  $4,083   $2,862   $3,085   $38   $   $10,068 
Provision (credit)   169    223    (182)   70    20    300 
Charge-offs   (36)       (163)   (80)       (279)
Recoveries   118    1    4    15        138 
Balance at March 31, 2017  $4,334   $3,086   $2,744   $43   $20   $10,227 
                               
Balance at December 31, 2017  $4,712   $3,311   $2,733   $71   $4   $10,831 
Provision (credit)   452    71    (59)   25    11    500 
Charge-offs               (36)       (36)
Recoveries   35    15    7    18        75 
Balance at March 31, 2018  $5,199   $3,397   $2,681   $78   $15   $11,370 

 

14

 

 

Further information pertaining to the allowance for loan losses by segment at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 follows:

 

   Commercial Real Estate   Residential Real Estate   Commercial and Industrial   Consumer   Unallocated   Total 
   (In thousands) 
March 31, 2018                        
                         
Amount of allowance for impaired loans  $   $   $   $   $   $ 
Amount of allowance for non-impaired loans   5,199    3,397    2,681    78    15    11,370 
Total allowance for loan losses  $5,199   $3,397   $2,681   $78   $15   $11,370 
                               
Impaired loans  $2,977   $3,769   $3,035   $95   $   $9,876 
Non-impaired loans   731,863    646,724    233,278    4,444        1,616,309 
Impaired loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality   11,786    3,296    1,024            16,106 
Total loans  $746,626   $653,789   $237,337   $4,539   $   $1,642,291 
                               
December 31, 2017                              
                               
Amount of allowance for impaired loans  $   $   $   $   $   $ 
Amount of allowance for non-impaired loans   4,712    3,311    2,733    71    4    10,831 
Total allowance for loan losses  $4,712   $3,311   $2,733   $71   $4   $10,831 
                               
Impaired loans  $3,674   $3,964   $2,766   $120   $   $10,524 
Non-impaired loans   716,571    642,787    234,582    4,358        1,598,298 
Impaired loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality   12,371    3,600    1,154            17,125 
Total loans  $732,616   $650,351   $238,502   $4,478   $   $1,625,947 

 

15

 

 

The following is a summary of past due and non-accrual loans by class at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

 

   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   Non-Accrual Loans 
   (In thousands) 
March 31, 2018                        
Commercial real estate  $641   $382   $492   $1,515   $   $2,751 
Residential real estate:                              
Residential   2,278    1,135    1,689    5,102        5,316 
Home equity   649    61    33    743        674 
Commercial and industrial   1,513    761    104    2,378        3,264 
Consumer   93    6        99        95 
Total  $5,174   $2,345   $2,318   $9,837   $   $12,100 
                               
December 31, 2017                              
Commercial real estate  $1,951   $144   $290   $2,385   $   $2,959 
Residential real estate:                              
Residential   2,992    1,480    1,911    6,383        5,961 
Home equity   635        48    683        696 
Commercial and industrial   1,731    797    162    2,690        3,019 
Consumer   65        41    106        120 
Total  $7,374   $2,421   $2,452   $12,247   $   $12,755 

 

The following is a summary of impaired loans, by class, at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

 

     
               Three Months Ended 
   At March 31, 2018   March 31, 2018 
   Recorded Investment   Unpaid Principal Balance   Related Allowance   Average Recorded Investment   Interest Income Recognized 
   (In thousands) 
Impaired Loans(1):                         
Commercial real estate  $14,763   $17,551   $   $15,404   $190 
Residential real estate   6,341    6,788        6,578    10 
Home equity   724    766        737    1 
Commercial and industrial   4,059    9,290        3,990    44 
Consumer   95    103        108     
Total impaired loans  $25,982   $34,498   $   $26,817   $245 

 

 

(1) Includes loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality and performing troubled debt restructurings.

 

16

 

 

   At December 31, 2017   Three Months Ended
March 31, 2017
 
   Recorded Investment   Unpaid Principal Balance   Related Allowance   Average Recorded Investment   Interest Income Recognized 
   (In thousands) 
Impaired Loans:(1)                         
Commercial real estate  $16,045   $18,773   $   $19,431   $217 
Residential real estate   6,816    7,298        5,805    12 
Home equity   748    783         125    1 
Commercial and industrial   3,920    9,215        4,432    62 
Consumer   120    129         35     
Total impaired loans  $27,649   $36,198   $   $29,828   $292 

 

 

(1) Includes loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality and performing troubled debt restructurings.

 

No interest income was recognized for impaired loans on a cash-basis method during the three months ended March 31, 2018 or 2017. Interest income recognized on impaired loans during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 related to performing purchased impaired loans and TDRs.

 

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 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 allocated allowance or a charge-off to the allowance. In periods subsequent to modification, we evaluate all TDRs, including those that have payment defaults, for possible additional impairment and recognize impairment through the allowance. There were no significant loans modified in TDRs during the three months ended March 31, 2018 or 2017.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2018 or 2017, no TDRs defaulted (defined as 30 days or more past due) within 12 months of restructuring.

 

As of March 31, 2018, we have not committed to lend any additional funds for loans that are classified as impaired. There were no charge-offs on TDRs during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality

 

The following is a summary of loans acquired with evidence of credit deterioration from Chicopee as of March 31, 2018 and 2017.

 

    Contractual Required Payments Receivable   Cash Expected To Be Collected   Non-Accretable Discount   Accretable Yield   Loans Receivable 
    (In thousands) 
                      
Balance at December 31, 2017   $29,362   $23,158   $6,204   $6,033   $17,125 
Collections    (1,412)   (1,194)   (218)   (175)   (1,019)
Dispositions                     
Balance at March 31, 2018   $27,950   $21,964   $5,986   $5,858   $16,106 

 

17

 

 

    Contractual Required Payments Receivable   Cash Expected To Be Collected   Non-Accretable Discount   Accretable Yield   Loans Receivable 
    (In thousands) 
                      
Balance at December 31, 2016   $37,437   $29,040   $8,397   $7,521   $21,519 
Collections    (1,195)   (1,061)   (134)   (346)   (715)
Dispositions    (414)   (324)   (90)   6    (330)
Balance at March 31, 2017   $35,828   $27,655   $8,173   $7,181   $20,474 

 

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 – 4 are considered “Pass” or “Pass Watch” rated loans with acceptable risk.

 

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

 

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. 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. Construction loans are reported within commercial real estate loans and total $88.6 million and $84.4 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

 

The following table presents our loans by risk rating at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

 

   Commercial Real Estate   Residential 1-4 Family   Home Equity   Commercial and Industrial   Consumer   Total 
   (In thousands) 
March 31, 2018                        
Loans rated 1 – 4  $721,062   $554,109   $93,377   $205,339   $4,536   $1,578,423 
Loans rated 5   14,790            9,789        24,579 
Loans rated 6   10,774    5,629    674    22,209    3    39,289 
   $746,626   $559,738   $94,051   $237,337   $4,539   $1,642,291 
                               
December 31, 2017                              
Loans rated 1 – 4  $708,992   $551,469   $91,903   $205,537   $4,475   $1,562,376 
Loans rated 5   15,098            24,565        39,663 
Loans rated 6   8,526    6,283    696    8,400    3    23,908 
   $732,616   $557,752   $92,599   $238,502   $4,478   $1,625,947 

 

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6.       GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES

 

Goodwill

 

At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company’s goodwill related to the acquisition of Chicopee in October 2016. Annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances warrant such evaluation, the Company evaluates its goodwill for impairment. No goodwill impairment was recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2018.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2017, management completed their evaluation of premises and equipment acquired from Chicopee, which resulted in a $2.4 million adjustment to the provisional fair values of bank premises acquired and a $1.4 million reduction in goodwill. The remaining adjustments to goodwill of $140,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2017 resulted from information obtained during the quarter about events and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date. There were no changes to goodwill during the three months ended March 31, 2018.

 

Core Deposit Intangibles

 

In connection with the assumption of $545.7 million of deposit liabilities from the Chicopee acquisition in October 2016, of which $345.2 million were core deposits, the Bank recorded a core deposit intangible of $4.5 million. The resulting core deposit intangible is amortized over twelve years using the straight-line method. Amortization expense was $94,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and March 31, 2017. At March 31, 2018, future amortization of the core deposit intangible totals $375,000 for each of the next five years and $2.1 million thereafter.

 

7. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

 

Stock Options – Under the terms of the Chicopee merger agreement dated October 21, 2016, each option to purchase shares of Chicopee common stock issued by Chicopee and outstanding at the effective time of the merger pursuant to the Chicopee 2007 Equity Incentive Plan fully vested and converted into an option to purchase shares of WNEB common stock on the same terms and conditions as were applicable before the merger, except (1) the number of shares of WNEB common stock subject to the new option was adjusted to be equal to the product of the number of shares of Chicopee common stock subject to the existing option and the exchange ratio (rounding fractional shares to the nearest whole share) and (2) the exercise price per share of WNEB common stock under the new option was adjusted to be equal to the exercise price per share of Chicopee common stock of the existing option divided by the exchange ratio (rounded to the nearest whole cent).

 

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A summary of stock option activity for the three months ended March 31, 2018 is presented below:

                  
    Shares   Weighted Average Exercise Price  

Weighted
Average
Remaining Contractual
Term 

(in years) 

  

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value 

(in thousands) 

 
                  
Outstanding at December 31, 2017    257,050   $6.31    4.41   $1,175 
Exercised    (16,975)   6.13    4.11    77 
Outstanding at March 31, 2018    240,075   $6.32    4.17   $1,034 
                      
Exercisable at March 31, 2018    240,075   $6.32    4.17   $1,034 

 

Cash received for options exercised during the three months ended March 31, 2018 was $104,000.

 

Restricted Stock Awards In May 2014, our shareholders approved a stock-based compensation plan under which up to 516,000 shares of our common stock were reserved for grants of stock awards, including stock options and restricted stock, which may be granted to any officer, key employee or non-employee director of WNEB. Authorized but unissued shares are issued to awardees upon vesting of such awards. Any shares not issued because vesting requirements are not met will again be available for issuance under the plans.

 

In January 2015, 48,560 shares were granted under this plan and vest ratably over five years. The fair market value of shares awarded, based on the market price at the date of grant, was recorded as unearned compensation and is being amortized over the applicable vesting period.

 

In 2016, the Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) approved the long-term incentive program (the “LTI Plan”). The LTI Plan provides a periodic award that is both performance and retention based in that it is designed to recognize the executive’s responsibilities, reward demonstrated performance and leadership and to retain such executives. The objective of the LTI Plan is to align compensation for the named executive officers and directors over a multi-year period directly with the interests of our shareholders by motivating and rewarding creation and preservation of long-term financial strength, shareholder value and relative shareholder return.

 

The LTI Plan includes eligible officers of the Company who are nominated by the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and approved by the Committee. The LTI Plan is triggered by the Company’s achievement of satisfactory safety and soundness results from its most recent regulatory examination and additional performance metric as determined upon issuance. Stock grants made through the 2016 LTI Plan will be a combination of 50% time-vested restricted stock and 50% performance-based restricted stock.

 

In May 2016, 62,740 shares were granted under the LTI Plan. Of this total, 36,543 shares are retention-based, with 10,352 vesting in one year and 26,191 vesting ratably over a three-year period. The remaining 26,197 shares granted are performance based and are subject to the achievement of the 2016 LTI performance metric before vesting is realized after a three-year period. Performance shares will be earned based upon how the Company performs relative to threshold and target absolute goals (i.e. Company-specific, not relative to a peer index) over the three-year performance period. As a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, the return on equity performance metrics were adjusted to incorporate the impact and benefits of the corporate tax rate reductions thereunder. The original and adjusted threshold and target metrics under the 2016 Plan are as follows:

 

    Return on Equity Metrics 
   Threshold   Target 
           
Original metrics   5.85%   6.32%
Adjusted metrics   6.38%   6.79%

 

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Participants will be able to earn between 50% (for threshold performance) and 100% (for target performance) of the performance shares but will not earn additional shares if performance exceeds target performance.

 

In May 2017, 89,042 shares were granted under the LTI Plan. Of this total, 55,159 shares are retention-based, with 21,276 vesting in one year and 33,883 vesting ratably over a three-year period. The remaining 33,883 shares granted are performance based and are subject to the achievement of the 2017 LTI performance metric before vesting is realized after a three-year period. For the performance shares, the primary performance metric for 2017 awards is return on equity. Performance shares will be earned based upon how the Company performs relative to threshold, target and maximum absolute goals (i.e. Company-specific, not relative to a peer index) on an annual performance period, but will be distributed at the end of the three year period. As a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, the return on equity performance metrics were adjusted to incorporate the impact and benefits of the corporate tax rate reductions thereunder.

 

The original and adjusted threshold, target and maximum metrics under the 2017 Plan are as follows:

 

    Return on Equity Metrics 
Performance Period Ending  

Original 

Threshold 

   Adjusted Threshold   Original Target   Adjusted Target   Original Maximum   Adjusted Maximum 
                                
December 31, 2018    6.30%   6.87%   7.00%   7.63%   7.60%   8.28%
December 31, 2019    6.50%   7.09%   7.20%   7.85%   7.90%   8.61%

 

Participants will be able to earn between 50% (for threshold performance), 100% (for target performance) and 150% (for maximum performance). 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. Shares granted under performance-based conditions are monitored on a quarterly basis in order to compare actual results to the performance metric established, with any necessary adjustments being recognized through share-based compensation expense and unearned compensation.

 

In January 2018, 83,812 shares were granted under the LTI Plan. Of this total, 50,852 shares are retention-based, with 17,908 vesting in one year and 32,944 vesting ratably over a three-year period. The remaining 32,960 shares granted are performance based and are subject to the achievement of the 2018 LTI performance metric before vesting is realized after a three year period. For the performance shares, the primary performance metric for 2018 awards is return on equity. Performance shares will be earned based upon how the Company performs relative to threshold, target and maximum absolute goals (i.e. Company-specific, not relative to a peer index) on an annual performance period, but will be distributed at the end of the three-year period. The threshold, target and stretch metrics under the 2018 Plan are as follows:

 

    Return on Equity Metrics 
Performance Period Ending   Threshold   Target   Stretch 
                 
December 31, 2018    6.30%   6.80%   7.20%
December 31, 2019    6.85%   7.35%   7.75%
December 31, 2020    7.40%   7.90%   8.30%

 

Participants will be able to earn between 50% (for threshold performance), 100% (for target performance) and 150% (for maximum performance). 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. Shares granted under performance-based conditions are monitored on a quarterly basis in order to compare actual results to the performance metrics established, with any necessary adjustments being recognized through share-based compensation expense and unearned compensation.

 

At March 31, 2018, an additional 231,846 shares were available for future grants under this plan.

 

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Our stock award plan activity for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 is summarized below:

 

    Unvested Stock Awards Outstanding 
      
    Shares   Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value 
            
Outstanding at December 31, 2017    138,833   $8.98 
Shares granted    83,812    11.05 
Shares vested    (11,200)   7.18 
Outstanding at March 31, 2018    211,445   $9.90 
            
Outstanding at December 31, 2016    91,371   $7.51 
Shares vested    (11,200)   7.18 
Outstanding at March 31, 2017    80,171   $7.56 

 

We recorded compensation cost related to the stock awards of $232,000 and $162,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

8.     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 Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (“FHLBB”) advances with an original maturity of less than one year and a line of credit with the FHLBB. Short-term borrowings issued by the FHLBB were $55.0 million at March 31, 2018 and $133.0 million at December 31, 2017. We have an “Ideal Way” line of credit with the FHLBB for $9.5 million at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. Interest on this line of credit is payable at a rate determined and reset by the FHLBB on a daily basis. The outstanding principal is due daily, but the portion not repaid will be automatically renewed. There were no advances outstanding on the line of credit at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. There were no customer repurchase agreements at March 31, 2018 while there were $11.7 million at December 31, 2017. 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. In addition, we have lines of credit of $4.0 million and $50.0 million with Atlantic Community Bankers Bank (“ACBB”) 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 these lines of credit at March 31, 2018 or December 31, 2017. As part of our contract with ACBB, we are required to maintain a reserve balance of $300,000 with ACBB for our use of this line of credit.

 

Long-term debt consists of FHLBB advances with an original maturity of one year or more. At March 31, 2018, we had $212.7 million in long-term debt with the FHLBB. This compares to $164.8 million in long-term debt with FHLBB advances at December 31, 2017.

 

The customer repurchase agreements outstanding at December 31, 2017 were collateralized by government-sponsored enterprise obligations with fair value of $6.7 million and mortgage backed securities with a fair value of $58.4 million, respectively. The securities collateralizing repurchase agreements are subject to fluctuations in fair value. We monitor the fair value of the collateral on a periodic basis, and would pledge additional collateral if necessary based on changes in fair value of collateral or the balances of the repurchase agreements.

 

All FHLBB advances are collateralized by a blanket lien on our residential real estate loans and eligible commercial real estate loans.

 

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9.     PENSION BENEFITS

 

We provide a defined benefit pension plan for eligible employees (the “Plan”). Employees must work a minimum of 1,000 hours per year to be eligible for the Plan. Eligible employees become vested in the Plan after five years of service. 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 2018. No contributions have been made to the plan for the three months ended March 31, 2018. The pension plan assets are invested in various pooled separate investment accounts offered by Principal Life Insurance Company, a division of Principal Financial Group, who is the Custodian of the Plan (the “Custodian”). The Plan is administered by an officer of Westfield Bank (the “Plan Administrator”). On September 30, 2016, we effected a soft freeze on the Plan and therefore no new participants will be included in the Plan after such effective date.

 

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

 

  

Three Months Ended  

March 31,

 
   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 
Service cost  $303   $267 
Interest cost   253    254 
Expected return on assets   (347)   (298)
Amortization of actuarial loss   57    51 
Net periodic pension cost  $266   $274 

 

10.   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.

 

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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, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

 

March 31, 2018

  Asset Derivatives   Liability Derivatives 
   Balance Sheet Location   Fair Value   Balance Sheet Location   Fair Value 
   (In thousands) 
                 
Interest rate swaps   Other Assets  $44   Other Liabilities  $1,347 

 

   Asset Derivatives   Liability Derivatives 

December 31, 2017

  Balance Sheet Location   Fair Value   Balance Sheet Location   Fair Value 
   (In thousands) 
                 
Interest rate swaps  Other Assets  $   Other Liabilities  $2,152 

 

At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, all derivatives were 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 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.

 

The following table presents information about our cash flow hedges at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

 

March 31, 2018  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  $55,000    3.0    1.98%   2.93%  $ (1,302 )

 

 December 31, 2017  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  $55,000    3.3    1.64%   2.93%  $ (2,152 )

 

For derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk, the gain or loss on the derivative is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and subsequently reclassified into interest expense in the same period(s) during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive income related to derivatives will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are received on the Company’s variable-rate borrowings. During the next twelve months, the Company estimates that an additional $1.4 million will be reclassified as an increase to interest expense.

 

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

 

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

 

   Amount of Loss Recognized in OCI on Derivative 
   Three Months Ended March 31, 
   2018   2017 
   (In thousands) 
Interest rate swaps  $678   $53 

 

Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss related to these derivatives are reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on our rate sensitive assets/liabilities. Fees on previously terminated swaps are being amortized as a reclassification of other comprehensive income into interest expense over the terms of the previously hedged borrowings. The amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into net income for interest rate swaps and termination fees was $435,000 and $538,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

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.

 

At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we had a net liability position of $1.3 million and $2.2 million with our counterparties, respectively. As of March 31, 2018, we had minimum collateral posting thresholds with certain of our derivative counterparties and had mortgage-backed securities with a fair value of $1.8 million posted as collateral against our obligations under these agreements. If we had breached any of these provisions at March 31, 2018, we could have been required to settle our obligations under the agreements at the termination value.

 

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11.   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 measured at fair value on a recurring basis 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.

 

Securities and mortgage-backed 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.

 

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.

 

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

 

   March 31, 2018 
   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Assets:  (In thousands) 
Securities available-for-sale                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities  $   $168,461   $   $168,461 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities       16,693        16,693 
Corporate bonds       54,781        54,781 
State and municipal bonds       3,187        3,187 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations       23,841        23,841 
Marketable equity securities   6,327            6,327 
Interest rate swaps        44         44 
Total assets  $6,327   $267,007   $   $273,334 
                     
Liabilities:                    
Interest rate swaps  $   $1,347   $   $1,347 

 

   December 31, 2017 
   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Assets:  (In thousands) 
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities  $   $182,001   $   $182,001 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities       16,254        16,254 
Corporate bonds       56,144        56,144 
State and municipal bonds       3,239        3,239 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations       24,381        24,381 
Mutual funds   6,397            6,397 
Total assets  $6,397   $282,019   $   $288,416 
                     
Liabilities:                    
Interest rate swaps  $   $2,152   $   $2,152 

 

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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. There were no assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at March 31, 2018. The following table summarizes the fair value hierarchy used to determine each adjustment and the carrying value of the related assets at March 31, 2017. Total losses represent the change in carrying value as a result of fair value adjustments related to assets still held at March 31, 2017.

 

   At   Three Months Ended 
   March 31, 2017   March 31, 2017 
               Total 
   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Losses 
   (In thousands)   (In thousands) 
Impaired loans  $   $   $2,010   $170 

 

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, 2018 and 2017. We did not measure any liabilities at fair value on a 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, 2018 
   Carrying Value   Fair Value 
       Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
   (In thousands) 
Assets:                    
Cash and cash equivalents  $29,438   $29,438   $   $   $29,438 
Securities available-for-sale   266,963        266,963        266,963 
Marketable equity securities   6,327    6,327            6,327 
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston and other restricted stock   14,685            14,685    14,685 
Loans - net   1,635,620            1,569,545    1,569,545 
Accrued interest receivable   5,878            5,878    5,878 
Mortgage servicing rights   335        537        537 
Derivative assets   44        44        44 
                          
Liabilities:                         
Deposits   1,553,727            1,549,091    1,549,091 
Short-term borrowings   55,000        55,003        55,003 
Long-term debt   212,730        210,998        210,998 
Accrued interest payable   482            482    482 
Derivative liabilities   1,347        1,347        1,347 

 

   December 31, 2017 
   Carrying Value   Fair Value 
       Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
   (In thousands) 
Assets:                    
Cash and cash equivalents  $27,132   $27,132   $   $   $27,132 
Securities available-for-sale   288,416    6,397    282,019        288,416 
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston and other restricted stock   15,553            15,553    15,553 
Loans - net   1,619,850            1,581,929    1,581,929 
Accrued interest receivable   5,946            5,946    5,946 
Mortgage servicing rights   352        528        528 
                          
Liabilities:                         
Deposits   1,506,082            1,503,311    1,503,311 
Short-term borrowings   144,650        144,650        144,650 
Long-term debt   164,786        164,016        164,016 
Accrued interest payable   441            441    441 
Derivative liabilities   2,152        2,152        2,152 

 

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12. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). The amendments in this Update create Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, and supersede the revenue recognition requirements in Topic 605, Revenue Recognition, including most industry-specific revenue recognition guidance throughout the Industry Topics of the Codification. The core principle of Topic 606 is that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The Company adopted this Update during the three months ended March 31, 2018 with no impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments – Overall, (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The amendments in this Update address certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments. Targeted improvements to generally accepted accounting principles include the requirement for equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income and the elimination of the requirement for public business entities to disclose the methods and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value for financial instruments measured at amortized cost. The Company adopted this Update during the three months ended March 31, 2018 which resulted in the recognition of $106,000 in unrealized losses as a component of non-interest income for changes in the fair value of marketable equity securities that would have previously been recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. Additionally, the disclosure of methods and assumptions for the fair value of financial instruments measured at amortized cost have been removed.

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which supersedes the requirements in Topic 840, Leases. The objective of Topic 842 is to establish the principles that lessees and lessors shall apply to report useful information to users of financial statements about the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from a lease. The core principle of Topic 842 is that a lessee should recognize the assets and liabilities that arise from leases. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early application of the amendments in this Update is permitted for all entities. Management is currently evaluating the impact to the consolidated financial statements of adopting this Update but does not expect adoption to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. As of March 31, 2018, the Company had $9.1 million of future lease payments outstanding on operating leases pertaining to banking premises.

 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326), which requires entities to measure all expected credit losses for financial assets held at the reporting date based on historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The ASU also requires enhanced disclosures to help financial statement users better understand significant estimates and judgments used in estimating credit losses, as well as the credit quality and underwriting standards of an entity’s portfolio. These disclosures include qualitative and quantitative requirements that provide additional information about the amounts recorded in the financial statements. This ASU is effective for the first interim period in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early application will be permitted for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company is in the process of evaluating the standard. We have put together a project team that has begun to identify appropriate loan segments along with related historical losses for each segment and potential models that would be most appropriate for each individual segment. We have not quantified the effects of any models, but do expect the standard to significantly change the approach to calculating our allowance for loan losses.

 

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In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments. This Update provides guidance on eight specific cash flow issues: Debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs; settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing; contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies, including bank-owned life insurance policies; distributions received from equity method investees; beneficial interests in securitization transactions; separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. The Company adopted this Update during the three months ended March 31, 2018 with no impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07 – Compensation – Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost. This Update amends guidance on the presentation of defined benefit pension cost and postretirement benefit cost (net benefit cost) within the employer’s income statement. Specifically, the amendment requires that an employer report the service cost component in the same line item or items as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period, while other components of net periodic benefit cost be presented separately from service cost. The Company adopted this Update during the three months ended March 31, 2018 with no significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-08—Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20): Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities. This Update amends guidance on the amortization period of premiums on certain purchased callable debt securities. Specifically, the amendments shorten the amortization period of premiums on certain purchased callable debt securities to the earliest call date. The amendments affect all entities that hold investments in callable debt securities that have an amortized cost basis in excess of the amount that is repayable by the issuer at the earliest call date (that is, at a premium). The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. We do not expect the application of this guidance to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting. The amendments in this Update provide guidance on determining which changes to the terms and conditions of share-based payment awards require an entity to apply modification accounting under Topic 718. This Update is effective for all entities for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2017. As the Company does not modify share-based payment awards, the adoption of this ASU during the three months ended March 31, 2018 did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging: Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities (ASU 2017-12). The purpose of this updated guidance is to better align a company’s financial reporting for hedging activities with the economic objectives of those activities. ASU 2017-12 is effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption, including adoption in an interim period, permitted. We adopted ASU 2017-12 on January 1, 2018. ASU 2017-12 requires a modified retrospective transition method in which the Company will recognize the cumulative effect of the change on the opening balance of each affected component of equity in the statement of financial position as of the date of adoption. The adoption of this ASU did not have an impact on the 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 areas of western Massachusetts and 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.

 

You should read the following financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2018 in the context of this strategy.

 

Net income was $3.5 million, or $0.12 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $5.1 million, or $0.17 per diluted share, for the same period in 2017.

 

The provision for loan losses was $500,000 and $300,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

Net interest income increased $219,000, or 1.5%, to $14.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 from $14.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, increased four basis points to 3.12% for the three months ended March 31, 2018, from 3.08% for the same period in 2017.

 

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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, 2018. 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 2017 Annual Report.

 

COMPARISON OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AT MARCH 31, 2018 AND DECEMBER 31, 2017

 

At March 31, 2018, total assets of $2.1 billion increased $2.5 million, or 0.1%, from December 31, 2017. The increase was due to a $16.3 million, or 1.0%, increase in total loans, partially offset by a decrease of $15.1 million, or 5.2%, in securities.

 

Total loans of $1.6 billion increased $16.3 million, or 1.0%, at March 31, 2018, from $1.6 billion at December 31, 2017. This was due to a $14.0 million, or 1.9%, increase in commercial real estate loans and a $3.4 million, or 0.5%, increase in residential loans, including home equity loans, partially offset by a decrease of $1.2 million, or 0.5%, in commercial and industrial loans. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, we experienced $7.3 million in commercial real estate loan payoffs related to the sale of borrower’s collateral.

 

All loans where the payments are 90 days or more in arrears as of the closing date of each month are placed on nonaccrual status. Nonperforming loans were $12.1 million at March 31, 2018 and $12.8 million at December 31, 2017. If all nonaccrual loans had been performing in accordance with their terms, we would have earned additional interest income of $218,000 and $211,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. At March 31, 2018 and 2017, our nonperforming loans to total loans were 0.73% and 0.92%, respectively, while our nonperforming assets to total assets were 0.58% and 0.71%, 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 $47.6 million, or 3.2%, at March 31, 2018, from $1.5 billion at December 31, 2017. Core deposits, defined as all deposits except time deposits, represented 63.4% of total deposits, and increased $35.1 million, or 3.7%, from $949.5 million at December 31, 2017 to $984.6 million at March 31, 2018. Non-interest bearing deposits increased $3.6 million, or 1.2%, to $315.5 million, money market accounts increased $8.1 million, or 2.0%, to $418.3 million, interest-bearing checking accounts increased $20.4 million, or 23.3%, to $107.8 million, and savings accounts increased $2.9 million, or 2.1%, to $143.0 million. The increase in interest-bearing checking accounts was partially due to the termination of customer repurchase agreements which resulted in the account balances being transferred into core deposits. Time deposits increased $12.6 million, or 2.3%, from $556.5 million at December 31, 2017 to $569.1 million at March 31, 2018.

 

FHLB advances decreased $30.1 million, or 10.1%, from $297.8 million at December 31, 2017, to $267.7 million at March 31, 2018, while customer repurchase agreements decreased $11.7 million. The increase in deposit accounts during the quarter resulted in paying off Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston borrowings. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Company eliminated customer repurchase agreements and balances were transferred to the customer’s respective core deposit account. Our short-term borrowings and long-term debt are discussed in Note 8 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

 

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At March 31, 2018, shareholders’ equity was $242.6 million, or 11.6% of total assets, compared to $247.3 million, or 11.9% of total assets, at December 31, 2017. The decrease in shareholders’ equity during the three months ended March 31, 2018 reflects $2.5 million net increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss, $4.8 million for the repurchase of shares of the Company’s common stock and $578,000 of share-based compensation and stock option exercises, partially offset by a net increase of $2.1 million in the Company’s retained earnings reflective of current period net income offset by common stock dividends.

 

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2018 AND MARCH 31, 2017

 

General

 

Net income was $3.5 million, or $0.12 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $5.1 million, or $0.17 per diluted share, for the same period in 2017. Net interest income was $14.7 million and $14.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, 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, 2018 and 2017, 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, 
   2018   2017 
   Average       Average Yield/   Average       Average Yield/ 
   Balance   Interest   Cost   Balance   Interest   Cost 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
ASSETS:                        
Interest-earning assets                              
Loans(1)(2)  $1,626,738   $16,827    4.14%  $1,560,341   $16,040    4.11%
Securities(2)   282,556    1,814    2.57    307,912    1,912    2.48 
Other investments - at cost   17,111    201    4.70    17,510    163    3.72 
Short-term investments(3)   5,946    21    1.41    57,326    72    0.50 
Total interest-earning assets   1,932,351    18,863    3.90    1,943,089    18,187    3.74 
Total non-interest-earning assets   137,017              130,771           
Total assets  $2,069,368             $2,073,860           
                               
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY:                              
Interest-bearing liabilities                              
Interest-bearing checking accounts  $93,117   $80    0.34%  $90,498   $74    0.33%
Savings accounts   142,890    40    0.11    152,553    42    0.11 
Money market accounts   418,183    419    0.40    401,197    383    0.38 
Time deposits   561,106    1,816    1.29    571,855    1,510    1.06 
Total interest-bearing deposits   1,215,296    2,355    0.78    1,216,103    2,009    0.66 
Short-term borrowings and long-term debt   282,710    1,655    2.34    303,795    1,445    1.90 
Interest-bearing liabilities   1,498,006    4,010    1.07    1,519,898    3,454    0.91 
Non-interest-bearing deposits   310,193              304,448           
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities   15,886              6,331           
Total non-interest-bearing liabilities   326,079              310,779           
                               
Total liabilities   1,824,085              1,830,677           
Total equity   245,283              243,183           
Total liabilities and equity  $2,069,368             $2,073,860           
Less: Tax-equivalent adjustment(2)        (131)             (230)     
Net interest and dividend income       $14,722             $14,503      
Net interest rate spread(4)             2.83%             2.83%
Net interest margin(5)             3.12%             3.08%
Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities             128.99%             127.84%

 

 

(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 21% for the 2018 period and 35% for the 2017 period. The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income to agree to the amount reported in the consolidated statements of operations.

 

(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, 2018 compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 
   Increase (Decrease) Due to     
   Volume   Rate   Net 
Interest-earning assets  (In thousands) 
Loans (1)  $683   $104   $787 
Securities (1)   (157)   59    (98)
Other investments - at cost   (4)   42    38 
Short-term investments   (65)   14    (51)
Total interest-earning assets   457    219    676 
                
Interest-bearing liabilities               
Interest-bearing checking accounts   2    4    6 
Savings accounts   (3)   1    (2)
Money market accounts   14    22    36 
Time deposits   (28)   334    306 
Short-term borrowing and long-time debt   (100)   310    210 
Total interest-bearing liabilities   (115)   671    556 
Change in net interest and dividend income (1)  $572   $(452)  $120 

 

 

(1)Securities, loan income and change in net interest and dividend income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 21%. The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest income.

 

Net interest margin was 3.12% for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to 3.08% for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The amortization of purchase accounting adjustments related to the merger increased net interest income by $235,000 and $661,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and the three months ended March 31, 2017, respectively. Excluding the favorable purchase accounting amortization, the net interest margin was 3.07% for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2.94% for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

 

Net interest and dividend income increased $219,000, or 1.5%, to $14.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $14.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The average yield on interest-earning assets increased 16 basis points to 3.90% for the three months ended March 31, 2018, from 3.74% for the three months ended March 31, 2017. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the average cost of funds increased 16 basis points to 1.07%, from 0.91% for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The average cost of time deposits increased 23 basis points to 1.29% for the three months ended March 31, 2018 from 1.06% for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The average cost of borrowings increased 44 basis points to 2.34% for the three months ended March 31, 2017 from 1.90% for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

 

Average interest-earning assets decreased $10.7 million, or 0.55%, to $1.9 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2018 from $1.9 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The decrease in average interest-earning assets was due to a decrease in average short-term investments of $51.4 million, or 89.6% and a decrease in securities of $25.3 million, or 8.2%, partially offset by an increase of $66.4 million, or 4.3%, in average loans.

 

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Provision for Loan Losses

 

The provision for loan losses is reviewed by management based upon our evaluation of then-existing economic and business conditions affecting our key lending areas and other conditions, such as new loan products, credit quality trends (including trends in nonperforming loans expected to result from existing conditions), collateral values, loan volumes and concentrations, specific industry conditions within portfolio segments that existed as of the balance sheet date and the impact that such conditions were believed to have had on the collectability of the loan portfolio.

 

The amount of the provision for loan losses during the three months ended March 31, 2018 was based upon the changes that occurred in the loan portfolio during that same period. The changes in the loan portfolio, described in the comparison of financial condition, include an increase in commercial real estate and residential loans. After evaluating these factors, we recorded a provision for loan losses of $500,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $300,000 for the same period in 2017. The allowance was $11.4 million and $10.8 million, respectively, and 0.69% and 0.66% of total loans at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. At March 31, 2018, the allowance for loan losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans was 94.0%, compared to 84.9% at December 31, 2017.

 

Net recoveries were $39,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018. This comprised recoveries of $75,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, offset partially by charge-offs of $36,000 for the same period.

 

Net charge-offs were $141,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2017. This comprised charge-offs of $279,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2017, offset partially by recoveries of $138,000 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.

 

Non-interest Income

 

Non-interest income decreased $251,000, or 12.4%, to $1.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018, from $2.0 million for the three month ended March 31, 2017. The decrease in non-interest income was primarily due to the recognition of $201,000 in unamortized premium on a bond which paid in full prior to its final maturity, unrealized losses of $106,000 on the Company’s marketable equity securities portfolio due to the adoption of ASU 2016-01, a decrease of $116,000 in other non-interest income, partially offset by an increase in service charges of $57,000, or 3.7%, and a gain on the sale of OREO of $48,000.

 

Non-interest Expense

 

Non-interest expense, excluding merger related expenses of $410,000, increased $866,000, or 8.2%, to $11.4 million, or 2.24% of average assets, for the three months ended March 31, 2018, from $10.6 million, or 2.07% of average assets, for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Salaries and benefit increased $308,000, or 4.9%, occupancy expense increased $53,000, or 5.3%, data processing expense increased $246,000, or 62.9%, due to the expiration of credits related to the merger with Chicopee, FDIC insurance expense increased $41,000, or 35.0%, advertising expense increased $99,000, or 39.9%, professional fees increased $63,000, or 10.6%, and non-interest expense increased $62,000, or 3.9%.

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2018, the efficiency ratio was 68.2%, compared to 63.7% for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Excluding the purchase accounting adjustments of $235,000 and $661,000, for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and March 31, 2017, the efficiency ratio was 69.2% and 66.3%, respectively.

 

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Income Taxes

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2018, we had a tax provision of $1.0 million as compared to $147,000 for the same period in 2017. The effective tax rate increased from 2.8% for the three months ended March 31, 2017 to 22.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2018. The three months ended March 31, 2017 include $1.6 million in tax benefits recorded in connection with the reversal of a deferred tax valuation allowance and the exercises of stock options. The deferred tax valuation allowance reversal was a non-recurring event, while the tax benefits associated with stock option exercises are recurring, but are not consistent from period to period.

 

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, 2018 was $140.3 million. In addition, we have available lines of credit of $4.0 million and $50.0 million with ACBB and PNC Bank, respectively. 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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At March 31, 2018, we exceeded each of the applicable regulatory capital requirements. As of March 31, 2018, 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, Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based, and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the following table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes would change our category. Our actual capital ratios at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, 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, 2018                  
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                  
Consolidated  $253,735    15.53%  $130,705    8.00%    N/A      N/A  
Bank   243,412    14.93    130,443    8.00   $163,054    10.00%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated   242,365    14.83    98,029    6.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   232,042    14.23    97,833    6.00    130,443    8.00 
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets)                              
Consolidated   242,365    14.83    73,522    4.50     N/A      N/A  
Bank   232,042    14.23    73,374    4.50    105,985    6.50 
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio (to Adjusted Average Assets):                              
Consolidated   242,365    11.75    82,493    4.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   232,042    11.27    82,364    4.00    102,956    5.00 
                               
December 31, 2017                              
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated  $255,605    15.53%  $131,711    8.00%    N/A      N/A  
Bank   245,380    14.94    131,367    8.00   $164,208    10.00%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated   244,774    14.87    98,783    6.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   234,549    14.28    98,525    6.00    131,367    8.00 
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets)                              
Consolidated   244,774    14.87    74,087    4.50     N/A      N/A  
Bank   234,549    14.28    73,894    4.50    106,735    6.50 
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio (to Adjusted Average Assets):                              
Consolidated   244,774    11.84    82,702    4.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   234,549    11.36    82,584    4.00    103,230    5.00 

 

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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, 2018:

 

   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 (1)  $1,092   $1,950   $1,566   $4,504   $9,112 
                          
Borrowings                         
Federal Home Loan Bank   101,443    152,495    13,083    709    267,730 
                          
Credit Commitments:                         
Available lines of credit   167,527            64,476    232,003 
Other loan commitments   70,976    29,811    2,053    1,365    104,205 
Letters of credit   7,152    1,142        634    8,928 
Total credit commitments   245,655    30,953    2,053    66,475    345,136 
                          
Other Obligations                         
Vendor Contracts   2,962    5,923    5,923    5,676    20,484 
                          
Total Obligations  $351,152   $191,321   $22,625   $77,364   $642,462 

 

(1)Payments are for the lease of real property

 

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 2017 Annual Report. Please refer to Item 7A of the 2017 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 2017 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, 2018.

 

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, 2018    103,743    11.00    103,743    2,336,866 
 February 1 - 28, 2018    126,209    10.22    126,209    2,210,657 
 March 1 - 31, 2018    221,689    10.70    221,689    1,988,968 
 Total    451,641    10.63    451,641    1,988,968 

 

(1)On January 31, 2017, the Board of Directors authorized an additional stock repurchase program under which the Company may purchase up to 3,047,000 shares, or 10%, of its outstanding common stock. This plan began March 13, 2017 and as of March 31, 2018, there were 1,988,968 shares remaining to be purchased under the repurchase program.

 

There were no sales by us of unregistered securities during the three months ended March 31, 2018.

 

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, 2018.

 

  Western New England Bancorp, Inc.
     
  By: /s/ James C. Hagan
    James C. Hagan
    President and Chief Executive Officer
     
  By: /s/ Guida R. Sajdak
    Guida R. Sajdak
    Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

  

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit
Number
  Description
2.1   Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 4, 2016, by and between Western New England Bancorp, Inc. (f/k/a Westfield Financial, Inc.) and Chicopee Bancorp, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on April 7, 2016).
3.2   Restated Articles of Organization of Western New England Bancorp, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 26, 2016).
3.3   Amended and Restated Bylaws of Western New England Bancorp, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 2, 2017).
4.1   Form of Stock Certificate of Western New England Bancorp, Inc. (f/k/a 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 Western New England Bancorp, Inc. for the quarter ended March 31, 2018, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Operations, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (vi) 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.