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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Shore Bancshares, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to in these Notes as the “Company”), with all significant intercompany transactions eliminated. The accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). For purposes of comparability, certain reclassifications have been made to amounts previously reported to conform with the current period presentation. Reclassifications had no effect on prior year net income or stockholders’ equity.
Principles of Consolidation
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Shore Bancshares, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to in these Notes as the “Company”), with all significant intercompany transactions eliminated. The accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). For purposes of comparability, certain reclassifications have been made to amounts previously reported to conform with the current period presentation. Reclassifications had no effect on prior year net income or stockholders’ equity.
Nature of Operations
Nature of Operations
The Company engages in the banking business through Shore United Bank, N.A. (the “Bank”), a Maryland commercial bank with trust powers. The Company’s primary source of revenue is derived from interest earned on commercial, residential mortgage and other loans, and fees charged in connection with lending and other banking services located in Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. The Company engages in financial service offerings through Wye Financial Partners and offers corporate trustee services through Wye Trust, a division of Shore United Bank, N.A. The Bank also conducts secondary market lending activities through a division of the Bank. Mid-Maryland Title Company, Inc. (the “Title Company”), engages in title work related to real estate transactions.
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and affect the reported amounts of revenues earned and expenses incurred during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates that could change significantly relate to the determination of the allowance for credit losses on loans, loans acquired in business combinations, valuation of deferred tax assets and the subsequent evaluation of goodwill for impairment.
Investments - Debt Securities
Investments - Debt Securities
Investments in debt securities are classified as either held to maturity (“HTM”), available for sale (“AFS”), or trading, based on management’s intent. Currently, the Company has classified its debt securities within the AFS and HTM classifications. Debt securities purchased with the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as HTM and are recorded at amortized cost, net of any allowance for credit losses (“ACL”). Debt securities not classified as HTM are classified as AFS and are carried at estimated fair value with the corresponding unrealized gains and losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).
Gains or losses are recognized in net income on the trade date using the amortized cost of the specific security sold. Purchase premiums are recognized in interest income using the effective interest rate method over the period from purchase to maturity or, for callable securities, the earliest call date, and purchase discounts are recognized in the same manner from purchase to maturity.
The Company has elected to exclude accrued interest receivable from the amortized cost basis and fair value of its HTM and AFS debt securities and has included such accrued interest of $2.5 million and $2.2 million at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, within accrued interest receivable on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company has securities that have been pledged as collateral for obligations to federal, state and local government agencies, and other purposes as required or permitted by law, or sold under agreements to repurchase. At December 31, 2024, the aggregate carrying value of pledged AFS and HTM pledged securities was $67.9 million and $197.5 million, respectively. The comparable amounts as of December 31, 2023 were $54.5 million and $185.9 million, respectively.
Investments - Equity Securities
Investments - Equity Securities
Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in net income. Any equity securities without readily determinable fair values are carried at cost, minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments. Restricted equity securities are carried at cost and are periodically evaluated for impairment based on the ultimate recovery of par value. The entirety of any impairment on equity securities is recognized in earnings.
Allowance for Credit Losses - Securities and Loans Held for Investment
Allowance for Credit Losses - Securities
The Company evaluates its available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities portfolios for expected credit losses as of the valuation date under ASC 326. For available-for-sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position, the Company first assesses whether it intends to sell, or if it is more likely than not that it would be required to sell, the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either criterion is met, the security’s amortized cost basis is written down to fair value through income during the current period. For available-for-sale debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the Company evaluates whether the decline in fair value has resulted from credit losses or other driving factors. If the Company's assessment indicates that a credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows
expected to be collected from the security is compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis, an ACL is recorded for the credit loss (which represents the difference between the expected cash flows and amortized cost basis), limited by the amount that the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Any impairment that has not been recorded through an ACL is recognized in other comprehensive income.
The entire amount of an impairment loss is recognized in earnings only when: (1) the Company intends to sell the security; or (2) it is more likely than not that the Company will have to sell the security before recovery of the Company's amortized cost basis; or (3) the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. In all other situations, only the portion of the impairment loss representing the credit loss must be recognized in earnings, with the remaining portion being recognized in shareholders' equity as comprehensive income, net of deferred taxes.
Changes in the ACL are recorded as a provision for (or reversal of) credit losses. Losses are charged against the ACL when the Company believes the uncollectibility of an available-for-sale security is confirmed or when either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met. Any impairment not recorded through an allowance for credit loss is recognized in other comprehensive income as a noncredit-related impairment
As part of its estimation process, the Company have made a policy election to exclude accrued interest from the amortized cost basis of available for sale debt securities and report accrued interest separately in other assets in the consolidated balance sheet. Available for sale debt securities are placed on nonaccrual status when we no longer expect to receive all contractual amounts due, which is generally at 90 days past due. Accrued interest receivable is reversed against interest income when a security is placed on nonaccrual status. Accordingly, the Company does not recognize an allowance for credit loss against accrued interest receivable. This approach is consistent with the Company’s nonaccrual policy implemented for its loan portfolio.
The Company separately evaluates its held to maturity investment securities for any credit losses. If it determines that a security indicates evidence of deteriorated credit quality, the security is individually-evaluated and a discounted cash flow analysis is performed and compared to the amortized cost basis.
Allowance for Credit Losses - Loans Held for Investment
An ACL is estimated on loans held for investment, excluding loans carried at fair value. The ACL on loans is established through charges to earnings in the form of a provision for credit losses. Loan losses are charged against the ACL for the difference between the carrying value of the loan and the estimated net realizable value or fair value of the collateral, if collateral dependent, when management believes that the collectability of the principal is unlikely. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.
The allowance represents management’s current estimate of expected credit losses over the contractual term of loans held for investment, and is recorded at an amount that, in management’s judgment, reduces the recorded investment in loans to the net amount expected to be collected. No ACL is recorded on accrued interest receivable and amounts written-off are reversed by an adjustment to interest income. Management’s judgment in determining the level of the allowance is based on evaluations of historical loan losses, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts relevant to the collectability of loans. The methodology for estimating the amount reported in the ACL is the sum of two main components, an allowance assessed on a collective basis for pools of loans that share similar risk characteristics and an allowance assessed on individual loans that do not share similar risk characteristics with other loans. Loans that share common risk characteristics are evaluated collectively using a cash flow approach. The cash flow approach used by the Company utilizes loan-level cash flow projections and pool-level assumptions. For loans that do not share risk characteristics with other loans, the ACL is measured based on the net realizable value, that is, the difference between the expected future cash flows and the amortized cost basis of the loan. When a loan is collateral-dependent and the repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral, the ACL is measured as the difference between the amortized cost basis of the loan and the fair value of the collateral.
Cash flow projections and estimated expected losses on loans which share common risk characteristics are based in part on forecasts economic independent variables, namely, the national unemployment rate, 10-year Treasury rate and changes in GDP that are reasonable and supportable over a 12-month period and incorporated into the estimate of expected credit losses using a statistical regression analysis. For periods beyond those for which reasonable and supportable forecasts are available, projections are based on a 12-month straight-line reversion of the corresponding economic independent variable from the last forecast to a historical average level.
Management’s estimate of the ACL on loans that are collectively evaluated also includes a qualitative assessment of available information relevant to assessing collectability that is not captured in the quantitative loss estimation process. Factors considered by management include concentrations of loans to specific industry segments, the volume and severity of delinquencies and adversely classified loan balances and the value of underlying collateral, and a number of other economic indicators intended to account for the imprecision inherent in forecasting economic conditions.This evaluation is inherently subjective, as it requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available.
Loans Held for Investment
Loans Held for Investment
The Company’s recorded investment in loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or pay-off generally is reported at the unpaid principal balances adjusted for charges-offs, unearned discounts, any deferred fees or costs on originated loans, and the ACL. The Company has elected to exclude accrued interest receivable from the amortized cost basis of its loans held for investment and has included such accrued interest of $16.7 million and $16.8 million at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, within accrued interest receivable on the consolidated balance sheets. Interest on loans is recorded to interest income based on the contractual rates and the amount of outstanding principal of the loans. Loan fees and origination costs are deferred and the net amount is amortized as an adjustment of the related loan’s yield using the level-yield method.
Loans acquired in a business combination are recorded at estimated fair value on the date of acquisition. In the case of loans that have experienced more than insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination as of the acquisition date, the loan’s amortized cost basis is increased above estimated fair value by the amount of expected credit losses as of the acquisition date, and a corresponding ACL is also recorded.
A loan’s past due status is based on the contractual due date of the most delinquent payment due. Loans are generally placed on nonaccrual status when the collection of principal or interest is 90 days or more past due, or earlier, if collection is uncertain. Any accrued interest receivable on loans placed on nonaccrual status is reversed by an adjustment to interest income. Loans greater than 90 days past due may remain on accrual status if management determines it is well secured and in the process of collection. Interest payments received on nonaccrual loans are applied as a reduction of the loan principal balance unless collectability of the principal amount is reasonably assured, in which case interest is recognized on a cash basis. A loan may be returned to accrual status if the borrower has demonstrated a sustained period of repayment performance in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan and there is reasonable assurance the borrower will continue to make payments as agreed.
In the ordinary course of business, the Company has entered into commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. Such financial instruments are recorded in the consolidated balance sheets when they are funded.
In the normal course of banking business, risks related to specific loan segments are as follows:
Commercial Real Estate – Commercial real estate loans consist of both loans secured by owner occupied properties and non-owner occupied properties where an established banking relationship exists and involves investment properties for multi-family(5+), warehouse, retail, and office space with a history of occupancy and cash flow. These loans are subject to adverse changes in the local economy and commercial real estate markets. Credit risk associated with owner occupied properties arises from the borrower’s financial stability and the ability of the borrower and the business to repay the loan. Non-owner occupied properties carry the risk of a tenant’s deteriorating credit strength, lease expirations in soft markets and sustained vacancies which can adversely impact cash flow.
Residential Real Estate – Residential real estate loans are typically made to consumers and are secured by residential real estate. Credit risk arises from the borrower’s continuing financial stability, which can be adversely impacted by job loss, divorce, illness, or personal bankruptcy, among other factors. Also impacting credit risk would be a shortfall in the value of the residential real estate in relation to the outstanding loan balance in the event of a default or subsequent liquidation of the real estate collateral.
Construction – Construction loans are offered primarily to builders and individuals to finance the construction of single-family dwellings. In addition, the Bank periodically finances the construction of commercial projects. Credit risk factors include the borrower’s ability to successfully complete the construction on time and within budget, changing market conditions which could affect the value and marketability of projects, changes in the borrower’s ability or willingness to repay the loan and potentially rising interest rates which can impact both the borrower’s ability to repay and the collateral value.
Commercial – Commercial loans are secured or unsecured loans for business purposes. Loans are typically secured by accounts receivable, inventory, equipment and/or other assets of the business. Credit risk arises from the successful operation of the business which may be affected by competition, rising interest rates, regulatory changes and adverse conditions in the local and regional economy.
Consumer – Consumer loans include installment loans and personal lines of credit. Credit risk is similar to residential real estate loans above as it is subject to the borrower’s continuing financial stability and the value of the collateral securing the loan.
Credit Cards - Unsecured credit card loans were offered to our commercial and consumer customers. Credit risk factors include the borrower’s continuing financial stability, which can be adversely impacted by job loss, divorce, illness or personal bankruptcy, among other factors. In 2024, the Company discontinued the issuance of new credit cards (except to select existing customers) and only services the existing portfolio at December 31, 2024.
Transfers of Loans Held for Sale (“LHFS”) to Loans Held for Investment (“LHFI”)
Transfers of Loans Held for Sale (“LHFS”) to Loans Held for Investment (“LHFI”)
The Company may, from time to time, transfer LHFS to LHFI. Transfers of LHFS to LHFI are accounted for in accordance with the underlying accounting applied to the loan prior to its transfer. For loans where the fair value option had been elected, the Company continues to account for the loan at fair value in the LHFI portfolio. Subsequent changes in the fair value of these loans are recorded in interest income. During the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 the Company had no transfers from LHFS to LHFI.
Reserve for Unfunded Commitments
Reserve for Unfunded Commitments
The Company records a reserve, reported in other liabilities, for expected credit losses on commitments to extend credit that are not unconditionally cancellable by the Company. The reserve for unfunded commitments is measured based on the principles utilized in estimating the ACL on loans and an estimate of the amount of unfunded commitments expected to be advanced. Changes in the reserve for unfunded commitments are recorded through the provision for credit losses.
Loans Held For Sale
Loans Held For Sale
The Company has elected to carry its mortgage loans originated for sale at fair value. Fair value is determined based on outstanding investor commitments or, in the absence of such commitments, on current investor yield requirements or third-party pricing models. Fair value adjustments are recorded at each balance sheet date with the changes in fair value recognized in mortgage banking revenue in the consolidated statements of income. Gains and losses on loan sales are determined based on the differential between a loan’s carrying value and sales price and are recognized through mortgage-banking revenue in the consolidated statements of income. LHFS are sold either with the mortgage servicing rights (“MSRs”) released or retained by the Bank.
Mortgage Servicing Rights
Mortgage Servicing Rights
When mortgage loans are sold with servicing retained, the MSRs are initially recorded at fair value with the income statement effect recorded in gains or losses of loan held for sale. Fair value is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income. The Company measures servicing rights at fair value at each reporting date and records the changes in fair value of servicing assets in earnings in the period in which the changes occur. Servicing fee income is recorded in the mortgage banking revenue line item.
Premises and Equipment
Premises and Equipment
Land is carried at cost and premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Useful lives range from three to ten for furniture, fixtures and equipment; three to five years for computer hardware and data handling equipment; and ten to 40 years for buildings and building improvements. Land improvements are amortized over a period of 15 years and leasehold improvements are amortized over the term of the respective lease or useful life, whichever is shorter. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred, while improvements which extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized and depreciated over the estimated remaining life of the asset.
Long-lived assets are evaluated periodically for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Impairment exists when the expected undiscounted future cash flows of a long-lived asset are less than its carrying value. In that event, the Company recognizes a loss for the difference between the carrying amount and the estimated fair value of the asset.
Segment Reporting
Segment Reporting
Operating segments are components of a business about which separate financial information is available and evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and assessing performance. The Bank is the Company’s only reportable operating segment upon which management makes decisions regarding how to allocate resources and assess performance. While the Company’s chief operating decision maker has some limited financial information about its various financial products and services including the Title Company, that information is not complete since it does not include a full allocation of revenue, costs, and capital from key corporate functions; therefore, the Company evaluates financial performance on a company-wide basis. Management continues to evaluate the Company's business units for separate reporting as facts and circumstances change.
Business Combination
Business Combination
The Company accounts for business combinations utilizing the acquisition method of accounting, which necessitates that purchased assets and assumed liabilities be recorded at their respective fair values. In numerous instances, the fair values of acquired assets and assumed liabilities are ascertained by estimating the anticipated cash flows from those assets and liabilities and discounting them at appropriate market rates. The Company determines the fair values of loans, core deposit intangibles, and deposits with the assistance of a third-party vendor.
The most significant assessment of fair value in our accounting for business combinations relates to the valuation of an acquired loan portfolio. At acquisition, loans are classified as either (i) purchase credit-deteriorated (“PCD”) loans or (ii) non-PCD loans and are recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition. PCD loans are those for which there is more than insignificant evidence of credit deterioration since origination. Fair values are determined primarily through a discounted cash flow approach which considers the acquired loans’ underlying characteristics, including account types, remaining terms, annual interest rates, interest types, timing of principal and
interest payments, current market rates, and remaining balances. Estimates of fair value also include estimates of default, loss severity, and estimated prepayments.

At acquisition, an allowance for PCD loans is determined based upon the Company’s methodology for estimating the ACL on loans. This allowance is credited to the ACL on loans with a corresponding adjustment to the amortized cost basis of the loan on the date of the acquisition. The difference between the new amortized cost basis and the unpaid principal balance is either a noncredit discount or premium that is amortized or accreted to interest income over the remaining life of the loan. Disposals of PCD loans, which may include sale of loans to third parties, receipt of payments in full or in part from the borrower or foreclosure of the collateral, result in removal of the loan from the loan portfolio at its carrying amount. For non-PCD loans, an ACL is established in a manner that is consistent with the Company’s originated loans. The ACL is determined using the Company’s methodology and the related ACL for non-PCD loans is recorded through a charge to the provision for credit losses in the period in which the loans are purchased or acquired. The entirety of any purchase discount or premium on non-PCD loans is amortized or accreted to interest income over the remaining life of the loan.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Other intangible assets represent purchased assets that also lack physical substance but can be distinguished from goodwill because of contractual or other legal rights or because the asset is capable of being sold or exchanged either on its own or in combination with a related contract, asset or liability. Goodwill and other intangible assets are initially required to be recorded at fair value. Determining fair value is subjective, requiring the use of estimates, assumptions and management judgment.
Goodwill is tested at least annually for impairment, usually during the fourth quarter, or on an interim basis if circumstances dictate. Intangible assets that have finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and also are subject to impairment testing.
If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than book value, an expense may be required to write down the related goodwill to record an impairment loss. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had one operating segment, the Banking segment.
Other intangible assets consist of core deposit intangible assets arising from whole bank and branch acquisitions and are amortized using an accelerated method over their estimated useful lives, which range from seven to ten years.
During the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, goodwill and other intangible assets were subjected to assessments for impairment. No impairment charges were recognized in either year. Our assessment of goodwill concluded it was not more likely than not that the fair value of the Company’s reporting unit was less than its carrying amount.
Borrowings and Subordinated Debt
Borrowings
Short-term and long-term borrowings are comprised primarily of Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) borrowings. The Company’s short-term borrowings may also include advances on other lines of credit with correspondent banks or repurchase agreements with customers. The repurchase agreements are securities sold to the Company’s customers, at the customers’ request, under a continuing “roll-over” contract that matures in one business day. The underlying securities sold are U.S. government agency securities, which are segregated from the Company’s other investment securities by its safekeeping agents.
Subordinated Debt
Subordinated debt is carried at its outstanding principal balance, net of any unamortized issuance costs and acquisition related fair value adjustments. For additional information on the Company’s subordinated debt, refer to Note 9 – “Borrowings.”
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash, deposits with other financial institutions with original maturities fewer than 90 days and federal funds sold. Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions mature within one year and are carried at cost.
Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging
Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging
We account for derivatives in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) literature on accounting for derivative instruments and hedging activities. When we enter into a derivative contract, we designate the derivative as held for trading, an economic hedge, or a qualifying hedge as detailed in the literature. The designation may change based upon management’s reassessment or changing circumstances. Derivatives utilized by the Company include interest rate lock commitments (“IRLCs”) and forward settlement contracts. IRLCs occur when we originate mortgage loans with interest rates determined prior to funding. Forward settlement contracts are agreements to buy or sell a quantity of a financial instrument, index, currency, or commodity at a predetermined future date, rate, or price.
We designate at inception whether a derivative contract is considered hedging or non-hedging. All of our derivatives are nonexchange traded contracts, and as such, their fair value is based on dealer quotes, pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques for which the determination of fair value may require significant management judgement or estimation.
For qualifying hedges, we formally document at inception all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as risk management objectives and strategies for undertaking various accounting hedges. We primarily utilize derivatives to manage interest rate sensitivity.
Fair Value
Fair Value
The Company measures certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value and also makes disclosures about certain financial instruments that are not measured at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgement regarding interest rates, credit risk, and other factors, particularly in the absence of broad markets for specific terms. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect these estimates.
Accounting guidance under GAAP defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. This accounting guidance also establishes a fair value hierarchy, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.
The Company uses fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. Securities available for sale and equity securities with readily determinable fair values are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, along with other mortgage related items identified in the recurring fair value table below. Additionally, from time to time, the Company may be required to record at fair value other assets on a nonrecurring basis, such as collateral dependent loans, repossessed assets and OREO (foreclosed assets). These nonrecurring fair value adjustments typically involve application of lower of cost or market accounting or write-downs of individual assets.
Under fair value accounting guidance, assets and liabilities are grouped at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine their fair values. These hierarchy levels are:
Level 1 inputs – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.
Level 2 inputs – Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These might include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals.
Level 3 inputs – Unobservable inputs for determining the fair values of assets or liabilities that reflect an entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the assets or liabilities.
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
Investment Securities Available for Sale
Fair value measurement for investment securities available for sale is based on quoted prices from an independent pricing service. The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include present value of future cash flows, prepayment assumptions, credit loss assumptions and other factors. The Company classifies its investments in U.S. Treasury securities, if any, as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy, and it classifies its investments in U.S. government agency securities and mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by U.S. government-sponsored entities as Level 2.
Equity Securities
Fair value measurement for equity securities is based on quoted market prices retrieved by the Company via online resources. Although these securities have readily available fair market values, the Company deems that they be classified as level 2 investments in the fair value hierarchy due to not being considered traded in a highly active market.
Loans Held for Sale
Loans held for sale are carried at fair value, which is determined based on Mark to Trade for allocated/committed loans or Mark to Market analysis for unallocated/uncommitted loans based on third-party pricing models (Level 2).
Mortgage Servicing Rights
The fair value of MSRs is determined using a valuation model administered by a third party that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income (Level 3). The model incorporates assumptions that market participants use in estimating future net servicing income, including estimates of prepayment speeds, discount rate, default rates, cost to service (including delinquency and foreclosure costs), escrow account earnings, contractual servicing fee income, and other ancillary income such as late fees. Management reviews all significant assumptions on a quarterly basis. Mortgage loan prepayment speed, a key assumption in the model, is the annual rate at which borrowers are forecasted to repay their mortgage loan principal. The discount rate used to determine the present value of estimated future net servicing income, another key assumption in the model, is an estimate of the required rate of return investors in the market would require for an asset with similar risk. Both assumptions can, and generally will, change as market conditions and interest rates change.
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the reporting entity’s residential MSRs are prepayment speeds, probability of default, rate of return, and cost of servicing. Significant increases/decreases in any of those inputs in isolation would have resulted in a significantly lower/higher fair value measurement. Generally, a change in the assumption used for prepayment speeds would have been accompanied by a directionally similar change in the markets (i.e., the 10-Year Treasury) and in the probability of default.
IRLCs
We utilize a third-party specialist model to estimate the fair value of our IRLCs, which are valued based upon mortgage securities (TBA) prices less estimated costs to process and settle the loan. Fair value is adjusted for the estimated probability of the loan closing with the borrower (Level 3).
Income Taxes
Income Taxes
The Company and its subsidiary file a consolidated federal income tax return. The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability method in accordance with required accounting guidance. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined by applying the applicable federal and state income tax rates to cumulative temporary differences. These temporary differences represent differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the corresponding tax bases of certain assets and liabilities. Deferred taxes result from such temporary differences.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the expected amount most likely to be realized. Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent on the generation of a sufficient level of future taxable income, recoverable taxes paid in prior years and tax planning strategies. The Company evaluates all positive and negative evidence before determining if a valuation allowance is deemed necessary regarding the realization of deferred tax assets. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties as a component of tax expense.
The provision for income taxes includes the impact of reserve provisions and changes in the reserves that are considered appropriate as well as the related net interest and penalties. In addition, the Company is subject to the continuous examination of its income tax returns by the IRS and other tax authorities which may assert assessments against the Company. The Company regularly assesses the likelihood of adverse outcomes resulting from these examinations and assessments to determine the adequacy of its provision for income taxes. The Company remains subject to examination for tax years ending on or after December 31, 2021.
Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Common Share
Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Common Share
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and does not include the effect of any potentially dilutive common stock equivalents. Included in this calculation due to dividend participation rights are restricted stock awards which have been granted. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding, adjusted for the effect of any potentially dilutive common stock equivalents.
Transfers of Financial Assets
Transfers of Financial Assets
Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (i) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (ii) the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (iii) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.
Share-Based Compensation
Share-Based Compensation
The Company may grant share-based compensation to employees and non-employee directors in the form of restricted stock, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and stock options. The fair value of restricted stock is determined based on the closing price of the Bank’s holding company common stock on the date of grant. The Company recognizes compensation expense related to restricted stock on a straight-line basis over the vesting period for service-based awards. The fair value of RSUs is initially valued based on the closing price of the Bank’s
holding company common stock on the date of grant and is amortized in the statement of income over the vesting period. The RSUs are subsequently remeasured in each reporting period until settlement based on the quantity of awards for which it is probable that the performance conditions will be achieved. The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and related assumptions. The Company uses historical data to predict option exercise and employee termination behavior. Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of the Bank’s holding company common stock. The expected term of options granted is derived from actual historical exercise activity and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free rate is derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant based on the expected life of the option. The dividend yield is equal to the dividend yield of the Bank’s holding company common stock at the time of grant. Expense related to shared-based compensation is recorded in the statements of income as a component of salaries and employee benefits for employees and as a component of other noninterest expense for non-employee directors, with a corresponding increase to capital surplus in shareholders’ equity.
Advertising Costs
Advertising Costs
Advertising costs are generally expensed as incurred.
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) consists of unrealized holding gains and losses on available for sale securities, net of any gains recognized from the sale of available for sale securities.
Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures.” The amendments in this ASU are intended to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. This ASU requires disclosure of significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”). Additionally, this ASU requires that at least one of the reported segment profit and loss measures should be the measure that is most consistent with the measurement principles used in an entity’s consolidated financial statements. Lastly, this ASU requires public business entities with a single reportable segment to provide all disclosures required by these amendments in this ASU and all existing segment disclosures in Topic 280. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The Company adopted this standard as of December 31, 2024 and the Company did not have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements. See Note 23: Segment Reporting for more details.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
ASU Update 2023-09 – In December 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU 2023-09, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures.” The amendments in this ASU require an entity to disclose specific categories in the rate reconciliation and provide additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold, which is greater than five percent of the amount computed by multiplying pretax income by the entity’s applicable statutory rate, on an annual basis. Additionally, the amendments in this ASU require an entity to disclose the amount of income taxes paid (net of refunds received) disaggregated by federal, state, and foreign taxes and the amount of income taxes paid (net of refunds received) disaggregated by individual jurisdictions that are equal to or greater than five percent of total income taxes paid (net of refunds received). Lastly, the amendments in this ASU require an entity to disclose income (or loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (or benefit) disaggregated between domestic and foreign and income tax expense (or benefit) from continuing operations disaggregated by federal, state, and foreign. This ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The amendments should be applied on a prospective basis; however, retrospective application is permitted. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2023-09 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
Revenue Recognition
Topic 606 does not apply to revenue associated with financial instruments, including revenue from loans and securities. Topic 606 is applicable to noninterest revenue streams such as trust and asset management income, deposit related fees, interchange fees and merchant income. Noninterest revenue streams in-scope of Topic 606 are discussed below.
Service Charges on Deposit Accounts
Service charges on deposit accounts consist of account analysis fees (i.e., net fees earned on analyzed business and public checking accounts), monthly service fees, check orders, and other deposit account related fees. The Company’s performance obligation for account analysis fees and monthly service fees is generally satisfied, and the related revenue recognized, over the period in which the service is provided.
Check orders and other deposit account related fees are largely transactional based, and therefore, the Company’s performance obligation is satisfied, and related revenue recognized, at a point in time. Payment for service charges on deposit accounts is primarily received immediately or at the end of the month through a direct charge to customers’ accounts.
Trust and Investment Fee Income
Trust and investment fee income are primarily comprised of fees earned from the management and administration of trusts and other customer assets. The Company’s performance obligation is generally satisfied over time and the resulting fees are recognized monthly, based upon the month-end market value of the assets under management and the applicable fee rate. Payment is generally received a few days after month end through a direct charge to customers’ accounts. The Company does not earn performance-based incentives.
Optional services such as real estate sales and tax return preparation services are also available to existing trust and asset management customers. The Company’s performance obligation for these transactional-based services is generally satisfied, and related revenue recognized, at a point in time (i.e., as incurred). Payment is received shortly after services are rendered.
Title Company Revenue
Title Company revenue consists of revenue earned on performing title work for real estate transactions. The revenue is earned when the title work is performed. Payment for such performance obligations generally occurs at the time of the settlement of a real estate transaction. As such settlement is generally within 90 days of the performance of the title work, we recognize the revenue at the time of the settlement.
All contract issuance costs are expensed as incurred. The Company had no contract assets or liabilities at December 31, 2024.
Other Noninterest Income
Other noninterest income consists of: fees, exchange, other service charges, safety deposit box rental fees, and other miscellaneous revenue streams. Fees and other service charges are primarily comprised of debit and credit card income, automated teller machine (“ATM”) fees, merchant services income, and other service charges. Debit and credit card income is primarily comprised of interchange fees earned whenever the Company’s debit and credit cards are processed through card payment networks such as Mastercard and Visa. ATM fees are primarily generated when a Company cardholder uses a non-Company ATM or a non-Company cardholder uses a Company ATM. Merchant services income mainly represents fees charged to merchants to process their debit and credit card transactions, in addition to account management fees. Other service charges include revenue from processing wire transfers, bill pay service, cashier’s checks, and other services. The Company’s performance obligation for fees, exchange, and other service charges are largely satisfied, and related revenue recognized, when the services are rendered or upon completion. Payment is typically received immediately or in the following month. Safe deposit box rental fees are charged to the customer on an annual basis and recognized upon receipt of payment. The Company determined that rentals and renewals of safe deposit boxes will be recognized on a monthly basis consistent with the duration of the performance obligation.