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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Basis of Presentation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Bank of Marin Bancorp (“Bancorp”), a bank holding company, and its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Bank of Marin (the “Bank”), a California state-chartered commercial bank. References to “we,” “our,” “us” mean the holding company and the Bank that are consolidated for financial reporting purposes. All material intercompany transactions have been eliminated. We have evaluated subsequent events through the date of filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and have determined that there are no subsequent events that require additional recognition or disclosure.

On November 29, 2013, we completed the merger of NorCal Community Bancorp ("NorCal"), parent company of Bank of Alameda, to enhance our market presence (the “NorCal Acquisition”). On the date of acquisition, Bancorp assumed ownership of NorCal Community Bancorp Trusts I and II, respectively (the "Trusts"), which were formed for the sole purpose of issuing trust preferred securities. Bancorp is not considered the primary beneficiary of the Trusts (variable interest entities), therefore the Trusts are not consolidated in our consolidated financial statements, but rather the subordinated debentures are shown as a liability on our consolidated statements of condition. Bancorp's investment in the common stock of the Trusts is accounted for under the equity method and is included in interest receivable and other assets on the consolidated statements of condition.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents include cash, due from banks, federal funds sold and other short-term investments with maturity less than three months at the time of origination.

Investment Securities

Investment Securities are classified as "held-to-maturity," "trading securities" or "available-for-sale." Investments classified as held-to-maturity are those that we have the ability and intent to hold until maturity and are reported at cost, adjusted for the amortization or accretion of premiums or discounts. Investments held for resale in anticipation of short-term market movements are classified as trading securities and are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. Investments that are neither held-to-maturity nor trading are classified as available-for-sale and are reported at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses for available-for-sale securities, net of related tax, are reported as a separate component of comprehensive income and included in stockholders' equity until realized. For discussion of our methodology in determining fair value, see Note 10.

At each financial statement date, we assess whether declines in the fair value of held-to-maturity and available-for-sale securities below their costs are deemed to be other-than-temporary. We consider, among other things, (i) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (ii) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and (iii) our intent and ability to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. Evidence evaluated includes, but is not limited to, the remaining payment terms of the instrument and economic factors that are relevant to the collectability of the instrument, such as: current prepayment speeds, the current financial condition of the issuer(s), industry analyst reports, credit ratings, credit default rates, interest rate trends, the quality of any credit enhancement and the value of any underlying collateral.

For each security in an unrealized loss position ("impaired security"), we assess whether we intend to sell the security or if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If we intend to sell the security or it is more likely than not we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the entire difference between the investment’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date is recognized against earnings.

For impaired securities that are not intended for sale and will not be required to be sold prior to recovery of our amortized cost basis, we determine if the impairment has a credit loss component. For both held-to-maturity and available-for-sale securities, if the amount of cash flows expected to be collected are less than the amortized cost, an other-than-temporary impairment shall be considered to have occurred and the credit loss component is recognized against earnings as the difference between present value of the expected future cash flows and the amortized cost. In determining the present value of the expected cash flows, we discount the expected cash flows at the effective interest rate implicit in the security at the date of purchase. The remaining difference between the fair value and the amortized basis is deemed to be due to factors that are not credit related and is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes.

For held-to-maturity securities, if there is no credit loss component, no impairment is recognized. The portion of other-than-temporary impairment recognized in other comprehensive income for credit impaired debt securities classified as held-to-maturity is accreted from other comprehensive income to the amortized cost of the debt security over the remaining life of the debt security in a prospective manner on the basis of the amount and timing of future estimated cash flows.

Premiums and discounts are amortized or accreted over the life of the related security as an adjustment to yield using the effective interest method. Dividend and interest income are recognized when earned. Realized gains and losses on the sale of securities and credit losses related to other-than-temporary impairment on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities are included in non-interest income as gains (losses) on investment securities, net. The specific identification method is used to calculate realized gains and losses on sales of securities.

Originated Loans

Originated Loans are reported at the principal amount outstanding net of deferred fees (costs), charge-offs and the allowance for loan losses (“ALLL”). Interest income is accrued daily using the simple interest method. Loans are placed on non-accrual status when Management believes that there is doubt as to the collection of principal or interest, generally when they become contractually past due by ninety days or more with respect to principal or interest, except for loans that are well-secured and in the process of collection. When loans are placed on non-accrual status, any accrued but uncollected interest is reversed from current-period interest income. Non-accrual loans may be returned to accrual status when one of the following occurs:


•	The loan is brought current or after all principal and past due interest has been collected, and we are satisfied with the borrower's financial position and we are reasonably assured as to repayment.


•	The loan has become well secured and is in the process of collection.

•

We are satisfied with the borrower’s financial position, the obligor has resumed paying the full amount of the contractual interest and principal, the amounts contractually due are reasonably assured of repayment within a reasonable period, and there has been a sustained period of repayment performance (generally, six consecutive monthly payments), according to the modified terms for loans whose contractual terms have been restructured in a manner which grants a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties (“troubled debt restructuring”).

Loan origination fees and commitment fees, offset by certain direct loan origination costs, are deferred and amortized as yield adjustments over the contractual lives of the related loans.

Loan Charge-Off Policy

Loan Charge-Off Policy: For all loan types excluding overdraft accounts, we generally make a charge-off determination at or before 90 days past due. A collateral-dependent loan is partially charged down to the fair value of collateral securing it if: (1) it is deemed uncollectable, or (2) it has been classified as a loss by either our internal loan review process or external examiners. A non-collateral-dependent loan is partially charged down to its net realizable value under the same circumstances. For overdraft accounts, we generally charge them off when they exceed 60 days past due.

Acquired Loans

Acquired Loans: From time to time, we acquire loans through business acquisitions. Acquired loans are recorded at their estimated fair values at acquisition date in accordance with ASC 805 Business Combinations, factoring in credit losses expected to be incurred over the life of the loan. Accordingly, an allowance for loan losses is not carried over or recorded for acquired loans as of the acquisition date.

The process of calculating fair values of the acquired loans, including estimates of losses that are expected to be incurred over the estimated remaining lives of the loans at acquisition date and the ongoing updates to Management's expectation of future cash flows, requires significant subjective judgments and assumptions, particularly considering the economic environment. The economic environment and the lack of market liquidity and transparency are factors that have influenced, and may continue to affect, these assumptions and estimates.

We estimated the fair value of acquired loans at the acquisition date based on a discounted cash flow methodology that considered factors including the type of loan and related collateral, risk classification, fixed or variable interest rate, term of loan, whether or not the loan was amortizing, and current discount rates. Loans, except for purchased credit impaired ("PCI") loans, were grouped together according to similar risk characteristics and treated in the aggregate when applying various valuation techniques. Expected cash flows incorporated our best estimate of key assumptions at the time, such as property values, default rates, loss severity and prepayment speeds. Discount rates were based on market rates for new originations of comparable loans, where available, and included adjustments for liquidity factors.

To the extent comparable market rates were not readily available, a discount rate was derived based on the assumptions of market participants' cost of funds, servicing costs and return requirements for comparable risk assets. In either case, the discount rate did not include a factor for credit losses, as that had been considered in estimating the cash flows. The initial estimate of cash flows to be collected was derived from assumptions such as default rates, loss severities and prepayment speeds.

We acquired some loans from business combinations with evidence of significant credit quality deterioration subsequent to their origination and for which it was probable, at acquisition, that we would be unable to collect all contractually required payments. Management applied significant subjective judgment in determining which loans were PCI loans. Evidence of credit quality deterioration as of the purchase date may include data such as past due and nonaccrual status, risk grades and charge-off history. Revolving credit agreements (e.g., home equity lines of credit and revolving commercial loans) where the borrower had revolving rights at acquisition date were not considered PCI loans because the timing and amount of cash flows cannot be reasonably estimated.

According to the accounting guidance for PCI loans, the nonaccretable difference on the date of acquisition is defined as the difference between the contractually required payments and the cash flows expected to be collected, considering the result of prepayments, and is not recorded. The difference between the undiscounted expected cash flows and the fair value at acquisition date ("accretable difference") is accreted into interest income at a level yield of return over the remaining term of the loan, provided that the timing and amount of future cash flows is reasonably estimable.

For purposes of accounting for the PCI loans from past business combinations, we elected not to apply the pooling method but to account for these loans individually. Disposals of loans, which may include sales of loans to third parties, receipt of payments in full by the borrower, or foreclosure of the collateral, result in removal of the loan from the PCI loan portfolio at its carrying amount. If a PCI loan pays off earlier than expected, a gain is recorded as interest income when the payoff amount exceeds the recorded investment.

For acquired loans not considered credit impaired ("non-PCI"), we recognize the entire fair value discount accretion to interest income, based on contractual cash flows using an effective interest rate method for term loans, and on a straight line basis for revolving lines. When a non-PCI loan is placed on non-accrual status subsequent to acquisition, accretion stops until the loan is returned to accrual status. The level of accretion on non-PCI loans varies from period to period due to maturities and early pay-offs of these loans during the reporting periods. Subsequent to acquisition, if the probable and estimable losses for non-PCI loans exceed the amount of the remaining unaccreted discount, the excess is established as an allowance for loan losses. All acquired loans were acquired in acquisitions and do not represent loans purchased from third parties.

For further information regarding our acquired loans, see Note 4.

Allowance for Loan Losses

Allowance for Loan Losses is based upon estimates of loan losses and is maintained at a level considered adequate to provide for probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The allowance is increased by provisions for loan losses charged against earnings and reduced by charge-offs, net of recoveries.

In periodic evaluations of the adequacy of the allowance balance, Management considers current economic conditions, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower's ability to repay, the estimated value of any underlying collateral, our past loan loss experience and other factors. The ALLL is based on estimates, and ultimate losses may vary from current estimates. Our Board of Directors' Asset/Liability Management Committee (“ALCO”) reviews the adequacy of the ALLL at least quarterly.

The overall allowance consists of 1) specific allowances for individually identified impaired loans ("ASC 310-10") and 2) general allowances for pools of loans ("ASC 450-20"), which incorporate changing qualitative and environmental factors (e.g., portfolio growth and trends, credit concentrations, economic and regulatory factors, etc.).

The first component, specific allowances, results from the analysis of identified problem credits and the evaluation of sources of repayment including collateral, as applicable. Through Management's ongoing loan grading and credit monitoring process, individual loans are identified that have conditions indicating the borrower may be unable to pay all amounts due in accordance with the contractual terms. These loans are evaluated for impairment individually by Management. Management considers an originated loan to be impaired when it is probable we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. When the fair value of the impaired loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan, the difference is recorded as impairment through the establishment of a specific allowance. For loans determined to be impaired, the extent of the impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate at origination (for originated loans), based on the loan's observable market price, or based on the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent or if foreclosure is imminent. Generally with problem credits that are collateral dependent, we obtain appraisals of the collateral at least annually. We may obtain appraisals more frequently if we believe the collateral value is subject to market volatility, if a specific event has occurred to the collateral, or if we believe foreclosure is imminent.

The estimate of cash flows expected to be collected on PCI loans is updated each quarter and requires the continued use of key assumptions and estimates. We apply judgment to develop our estimate of cash flows given the current economic environment, changes in collateral values, loan workout plans, changing probability of default, loss severities and prepayments. If we have probable decreases in cash flows expected to be collected on PCI loans, specific allowances are established to account for credit deterioration subsequent to acquisition.

The second component is an estimate of the probable inherent losses in each loan pool with similar risk characteristics. This analysis encompasses the entire loan portfolio excluding individually identified impaired loans and acquired loans whose purchase discount has not been fully accreted. Under our allowance model, loans are evaluated on a pool basis by loan segment which is further delineated by Federal regulatory reporting codes ("CALL codes"):


•	Loans secured by real estate:

- 1-4 family residential construction loans

- Other construction loans and all land development and other land loans

- Secured by farmland (including residential and other improvements)

- Revolving, open-end loans secured by 1-4 family residential properties and extended under lines of credit

- Closed-end loans secured by 1-4 family residential properties, secured by first liens

- Closed-end loans secured by 1-4 family residential properties, secured by junior liens

- Secured by multifamily (5 or more) residential properties

- Loans secured by owner-occupied non-farm nonresidential properties

- Loans secured by other non-farm nonresidential properties


•	Loans to finance agricultural production and other loans to farmers


•	Commercial and industrial loans


•	Loans to individuals for household, family and other personal expenditures (i.e., consumer loans)


•	Other loans

The model determines loan loss reserves by loan segment based on objective and subjective expected loss factors. Objective factors include an historical loss rate using a rolling twenty-quarter look-back, changes in the volume and nature of the loan portfolio, changes in credit quality metrics (past due loans, non-accrual loans, net charge-offs and adversely-graded loans), and the existence of credit concentrations. When a loan segment exceeds 100% of Tier 1 capital, additional reserves are provided due to credit concentration risk. Subjective factors include changes in the overall economic environment, legal and regulatory conditions, experience level of lending management and other relevant staff, uncertainties related to acquisitions, as well as the quality of our loan review process. The total amount allocated is determined by applying loss factors to outstanding loans by CALL code.

For further information regarding the allowance for loan losses, see Note 4.

Allowance for Losses on Off-Balance-Sheet Commitments

Allowance for Losses on Off-Balance Sheet Commitments: We make commitments to extend credit to meet the financing needs of our customers in the form of loans or standby letters of credit. We are exposed to credit loss in the event that a decline in credit quality of the borrower leads to nonperformance. We record an allowance for losses on these off-balance sheet commitments based on an estimate of probabilities of these commitments being drawn upon according to our historical utilization experience on different types of commitments and expected loss severity. This allowance is included in interest payable and other liabilities on the consolidated statements of condition.

Transfers of Financial Assets

Transfers of Financial Assets: We have entered into certain participation agreements with other organizations. We account for these transfers of financial assets as sales when control over the transferred financial assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets and liabilities have been isolated from us, (2) the transferee has the right to pledge or exchange the assets (or beneficial interests) it received, free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right, beyond a trivial benefit and (3) we do not maintain effective control over the transferred financial assets or third-party beneficial interests related to those transferred assets.

Premises and Equipment

Premises and Equipment: Premises and equipment consist of leasehold improvements, furniture, fixtures, software and equipment and are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization, which are calculated on a straight-line basis. Furniture and fixtures are depreciated over eight years and equipment is generally depreciated over three to twenty years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of their estimated useful lives or the terms of the leases. When assets are sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation or amortization are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is recognized in income for the period. The cost of maintenance and repairs is charged to expense as incurred.

Business Combinations

Business Combinations: Business combinations are accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations. Under the acquisition method the acquiring entity in a business combination recognizes the acquired assets and assumed liabilities at their estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition. Any excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets and other identifiable intangible assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. To the extent the fair value of net assets acquired, including other identifiable assets, exceed the purchase price, a bargain purchase gain is recognized. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed from contingencies must also be recognized at fair value, if the fair value can be determined during the measurement period. Results of operations of an acquired business are included in the statement of operations from the date of acquisition. Acquisition-related costs, including conversion and restructuring charges, are expensed as incurred.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill is determined as the excess of the fair value of the consideration transferred, plus the fair value of any noncontrolling interests in the acquiree, over the fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date. Goodwill that arises from a business combination determined to have an indefinite useful life is not amortized, but is periodically evaluated for impairment at the reporting unit level, at least annually. Intangible assets with definite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values. Core deposit intangible represents estimated future benefit of deposits related to an acquisition and is booked separately from the related deposits and is evaluated periodically for impairment. The core deposit intangible asset is amortized on an accelerated method over its estimated useful life of ten years.

We make a qualitative assessment of whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit where goodwill is assigned is less than its carrying amount before applying a two-step goodwill impairment test. If we conclude that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we do not perform the two-step impairment test. Goodwill is tested for impairment on an interim basis if circumstances change or an event occurs between annual tests that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying amount. The qualitative assessment includes adverse events or circumstances identified that could negatively affect the reporting units’ fair value as well as positive and mitigating events. Such indicators may include, among others, a significant change in legal factors or in the general business climate, significant change in our stock price and market capitalization, unanticipated competition, and an action or assessment by a regulator.

Other Real Estate Owned (OREO)

Other Real Estate Owned ("OREO"): OREO is comprised of property acquired through foreclosure, in substance repossession or acceptance of deeds-in-lieu of foreclosure when the related loan receivable is de-recognized. OREO is recorded at fair value of the collateral less estimated costs to sell, establishing a new cost basis, and subsequently accounted for at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell. Any shortfall of collateral value from the recorded investment of the related loan is recognized as loss at the time of foreclosure and is charged against the allowance for loan losses. Fair value of collateral is generally based on an independent appraisal of the property. Revenues and expenses associated with OREO, and subsequent adjustments to the fair value of the property and to the estimated costs of disposal, are realized and reported as a component of non-interest income and expense when incurred.

Bank Owned Life Insurance

Bank Owned Life Insurance: The Bank has purchased life insurance policies on certain key current and former officers. Bank owned life insurance ("BOLI") is recorded in interest receivable and other assets on the consolidated statements of condition at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the period end, which is the cash surrender value adjusted for other charges or amounts due that are probable at settlement.

Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLB) Stock

Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco ("FHLB") Stock: The Bank is a member of the FHLB. Members are required to own a certain amount of stock based on the level of borrowings and other factors. Our investment in FHLB stock is carried at cost and is included as part of interest receivable and other assets on the consolidated statements of condition. We periodically evaluate FHLB stock for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as non-interest income.

Investments in Low Income Housing Tax Credit Funds

Investments in Low Income Housing Tax Credit Funds: We have invested in limited partnerships that were formed to develop and operate affordable housing projects for low or moderate income tenants throughout California. Our ownership in each limited partnership is less than two percent. In accordance with ASU No. 2014-01, Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), we elected to account for the investments in qualified affordable housing tax credit funds using the proportional amortization method. Under the proportional amortization method, the initial cost of the investment is amortized in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and the net investment performance is recognized as part of income tax expense (benefit). Each of the partnerships must meet the regulatory minimum requirements for affordable housing for a minimum 15-year compliance period to fully utilize the tax credits. If the partnerships cease to qualify during the compliance period, the credit may be denied for any period in which the project is not in compliance and a portion of the credit previously taken is subject to recapture with interest.

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”): We recognize compensation cost of the ESOP contribution when funds become committed for the purchase of Bancorp's common shares into the ESOP in the year in which the employees render service entitling them to the contribution. If we contribute stock, the compensation cost is the fair value of the shares when they are committed to be released, i.e. when the number of shares becomes known. During 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Bank only made cash contributions to the ESOP without leveraging.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes: Income taxes reported in the consolidated financial statements are computed based on an asset and liability approach. We recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and we record deferred tax assets and liabilities for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amount of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the temporary differences are expected to reverse. We record net deferred tax assets to the extent it is more likely than not that they will be realized. In evaluating our ability to recover the deferred tax assets and the need to establish a valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets, Management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies. In projecting future taxable income, Management develops assumptions including the amount of future state and federal pretax operating income, the reversal of temporary differences, and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require significant judgment about the forecasts of future taxable income and are consistent with the plans and estimates being used to manage the underlying business. Bancorp files consolidated federal and combined state income tax returns.

We recognize the financial statement effect of a tax position when it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits and all available evidence, that the position will be sustained upon examination, including the resolution through protests, appeals or litigation processes. For tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not threshold, we measure and record the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the taxing authority. The remainder of the benefits associated with tax positions taken is recorded as unrecognized tax benefits, along with any related interest and penalties. Interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recorded in tax expense.

In deciding whether or not our tax positions taken meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, we must make judgments and interpretations about the application of inherently complex state and federal tax laws. To the extent tax authorities disagree with tax positions taken by us, our effective tax rates could be materially affected in the period of settlement with the taxing authorities. Revision of our estimate of accrued income taxes also may result from our own income tax planning, which may affect effective tax rates and results of operations for any reporting period.

We present an unrecognized tax benefit as a reduction of a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss ("NOL") carryforward, or similar tax loss or tax credit carryforward, rather than as a liability, when (1) the uncertain tax position would reduce the NOL or other carryforward under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction and (2) we intend to and are able to use the deferred tax asset for that purpose. Otherwise, the unrecognized tax benefit is presented as a liability instead of being netted with deferred tax assets.

Earnings per share (EPS)

Earnings per share (“EPS”) are based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each year. The following table shows: 1) weighted average basic shares, 2) potentially dilutive weighted average common shares related to stock options, unvested restricted stock awards and stock warrant, and 3) weighted average diluted shares. Basic EPS are calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period, excluding unvested restricted stock awards. Diluted EPS are calculated using the weighted average number of potentially dilutive common shares. The number of potentially dilutive common shares included in quarterly diluted EPS is computed using the average market prices during the three months included in the reporting period under the treasury stock method. The number of potentially dilutive common shares included in year-to-date diluted EPS is a year-to-date weighted average of potentially dilutive common shares included in each quarterly diluted EPS computation. We have two forms of our outstanding common stock: common stock and unvested restricted stock awards. Holders of unvested restricted stock awards receive non-forfeitable dividends at the same rate as common shareholders and they both share equally in undistributed earnings. Therefore, under the two-class method, the difference in EPS is not significant for these participating securities.

Share-Based Compensation

Share-Based Compensation: All share-based payments granted subsequent to January 1, 2006, including stock options and restricted stock, are recognized as stock-based compensation expense in the statements of comprehensive income based on the grant-date fair value of the award with a corresponding increase in common stock. The grant-date fair value of the award is amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting period. The stock-based compensation expense excludes stock grants to directors as compensation for their services, which are recognized as director expenses separately based on the grant-date value of the stock. See Note 9 for further discussion.

We determine fair value of stock options at grant date using the Black-Scholes pricing model that takes into account the stock price at the grant date, the exercise price, the expected life of the option, the volatility of the underlying stock, the expected dividend yield and the risk-free interest rate over the expected life of the option. The Black-Scholes option valuation model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected life of the stock-based award and stock price volatility. The assumptions used represent Management's best estimates based on historical information, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of Management's judgment. As a result, if other assumptions had been used, the recorded stock-based compensation expense could have been materially different from that recorded in the consolidated financial statements. In addition, we are required to estimate the expected forfeiture rates. If our actual forfeiture rate is materially different from the estimate, the share-based compensation expense could be materially different. Fair value of restricted stock is based on the stock price on grant date.

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities

Fair Value Hedges: All of our interest rate swap contracts are designated and qualified as fair value hedges. We apply shortcut hedge accounting for one of our interest rate swap contracts, as it is structured to mirror all of the provisions of the hedged loan agreement. This interest rate swap is carried on the consolidated statements of condition at its fair value in other assets (when the fair value is positive) or in other liabilities (when the fair value is negative). The change in the fair value of the interest rate swap is recorded in non-interest income. As a result of interest rate fluctuations, the hedged fixed-rate loan also gains or loses value. The unrealized gain or loss resulting from the change in fair value of the hedged-loan is recorded as an adjustment to the hedged loan and offset in non-interest income. Under shortcut hedge accounting treatment, the change in fair value of the interest rate swap is deemed perfectly offset by the change in fair value of the hedged loan, resulting in zero impact to net income.

The six remaining interest rate swap contracts are accounted for using non-shortcut hedge accounting treatment. The interest rate swaps are closely aligned to the terms of the designated fixed-rate loans. The hedging relationships are tested for effectiveness on a quarterly basis. The interest rate swaps are carried on the consolidated statements of condition at their fair value in other assets (when the fair value is positive) or in other liabilities (when the fair value is negative). The changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps are recorded in interest income. The unrealized gains or losses due to changes in fair value of the hedged fixed-rate loans are recorded as an adjustment to the hedged loans and offset in interest income. For derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement, we do not offset fair value amounts of interest rate swaps in liability position with the ones in asset position.

Advertising Costs

Advertising Costs are expensed as incurred.

Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive Income includes net income and changes in the unrealized gain or loss of available-for-sale investment securities, net of related taxes, reported on the statements of comprehensive income and as components of stockholders' equity.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements: We use fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. We base our fair values on 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. Securities available-for-sale and derivatives are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Additionally, from time to time, we may be required to record certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, such as purchased loans recorded at acquisition date, certain impaired loans, other real estate owned and securities held-to-maturity that are other-than-temporarily impaired. These non-recurring fair value adjustments typically involve write-downs of individual assets due to application of lower-of-cost or market accounting.

When we develop our fair value measurement process, we maximize the use of observable inputs. Whenever there is no readily available market data, we use our best estimates and assumptions in determining fair value, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of Management's judgment. As a result, if other assumptions had been used, our recorded earnings or disclosures could have been materially different from those reflected in these financial statements.

For detailed information on our use of fair value measurements and our related valuation methodologies, see Note 10.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America requires Management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant accounting estimates reflected in the consolidated financial statements include ALLL, other-than-temporary impairment of investment securities, accrued liabilities, accounting for income taxes and fair value measurements (including fair values of acquired assets and assumed liabilities at acquisition dates) as discussed in the Notes herein.

Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Standards

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). The ASU is a converged standard involving FASB and International Financial Reporting Standards that provides a single comprehensive revenue recognition model for all contracts with customers across transactions and industries. The core principal of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount and at a time that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) Deferral of the Effective Date which institutes a one-year deferral of the effective date of this amendment to annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We are currently evaluating the provisions of this ASU and will be monitoring developments and additional guidance to determine the potential outcome the new standard will have on our financial condition and results of operations.

In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period. This ASU provides guidance for entities that grant their employees share-based payment awards where a performance target that affects vesting could be achieved after the requisite service period. That is the case when an employee is eligible to retire or otherwise terminate employment before the end of the period in which a performance target could be achieved and still be eligible to vest in the award if and when the performance target is achieved. This ASU stipulates that compensation expense should be recognized in the period where the performance target becomes probable of being achieved as opposed to the date that the award was granted. ASU 2014-12 is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We do not expect this ASU to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-05, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40) Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. The amendments in this ASU provide guidance about a customer's accounting for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, then the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. The two criteria that must be met to be considered a software license are: 1) the customer has the contractual right to take possession of the software at any time during the hosting period without significant penalty; and 2) it is feasible for the customer to either run the software on its own hardware or contract with another party unrelated to the vendor to host the software. ASU 2015-05 is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015. We do not expect this ASU to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805) Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments. The amendments in this ASU require that an acquirer recognize adjustments to estimated amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. Prior to the amendments, an acquirer was required to retrospectively adjust the provisional amounts recognized at the acquisition date with a corresponding adjustment to goodwill. ASU 2015-16 is effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We do not expect this ASU to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The amendments in this ASU make improvements to GAAP related to financial instruments that include the following as applicable to us.

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Equity investments, except for those accounted for under the equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee, are required to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. However, an entity may choose to measure equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values at cost minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer.


•	Simplifies the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment to identify impairment - if impairment exists, this requires measuring the investment at fair value.


•	Eliminates the requirement for public companies to disclose the method(s) and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value that is currently required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet.


•	Public companies will be required to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes.


•	Requires separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset on the balance sheet or the accompanying notes to the financial statements.


•	The reporting entity should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available-for-sale securities in combination with the entity's other deferred tax assets.

ASU 2016-01 is effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. This ASU will impact our financial statement disclosures, however, we do not expect this ASU to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). This ASU was issued to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities, including leases classified as operating leases under previous GAAP, on the balance sheet and requiring additional disclosures of key information about leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 and requires a modified retrospective approach to adoption. Early application of the amendments is permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of this ASU and will be monitoring developments and additional guidance to determine the potential outcome the amendments will have on our financial condition and results of operations.