UNIVEST FINANCIAL Corp

Previous wording

The Corporation maintains an investment portfolio, including available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities. We are required to record charges to earnings if we determine a decline in fair value of these investments has resulted from credit losses. Numerous factors, including the lack of liquidity for resales of certain investment securities, the absence of reliable pricing information for investment securities, adverse changes in the business climate, adverse regulatory actions, any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency, unanticipated changes in the competitive environment, changes in market interest rates and limited investor demand, could have a negative effect on our investment portfolio. Credit loss charges would negatively impact our earnings and regulatory capital ratios.

Current wording

We maintain an investment portfolio, including available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities. We are required to record charges to earnings if we determine a decline in fair value of these investments has resulted from credit losses. Numerous factors, including changes in market interest rates, the lack of liquidity for resales of certain investment securities, the absence of reliable pricing information for investment securities, adverse changes in the business climate, adverse regulatory actions, any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency, unanticipated changes in the competitive environment and limited investor demand, could have a negative effect on our investment portfolio. Credit loss charges would negatively impact our earnings and regulatory capital ratios.

Previous wording

The Corporation is subject to interest rate risk.

Current wording

We are subject to interest rate risk.

Previous wording

Our profitability is dependent to a large extent on our net interest income. Like most financial institutions, we are affected by changes in general interest rate levels and by other economic factors beyond our control. Changes in interest rates influence not only the interest we receive on loans and investment securities and the amount of interest we pay on deposits and borrowings, but such changes could also affect our ability to originate loans and obtain and retain deposits and the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities. Although we have implemented strategies to reduce the potential effects of changes in interest rates on our results of operations, any substantial and prolonged change in market interest rates could adversely affect our operating results.

Current wording

Our profitability is dependent to a large extent on our net interest income. Like most financial institutions, we are affected by changes in general interest rates and by other economic factors beyond our control. Changes in interest rates influence not only the interest we receive on loans and investment securities and the amount of interest we pay on deposits and borrowings, but such changes could also affect our ability to originate loans and obtain and retain deposits and the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities. Although we have implemented strategies to reduce the potential effects of changes in interest rates on our results of operations, any substantial and prolonged change in market interest rates could adversely affect our operating results.

Previous wording

•in a declining interest rate environment, more interest-earning assets than interest-bearing liabilities re-price or mature, or

Current wording

•in a declining interest rate environment, more interest-earning assets than interest-bearing liabilities reprice or mature, or

Previous wording

Our net interest income may decline based on our exposure to a difference in short-term and long-term interest rates. When short-term rates are higher than long-term rates, that is referred to as an inverted yield curve. If the yield curve inversion continues or worsens, the difference between rates paid on deposits and received on loans could narrow significantly resulting in a decrease in net interest income and our profitability.

Current wording

Our net interest income may decline based on our exposure to a difference in short-term and long-term interest rates. When short-term rates are higher than long-term rates, that is referred to as an inverted yield curve. If the yield curve inversion re-occurs, the difference between rates paid on deposits and received on loans could narrow significantly resulting in a decrease in net interest income and our profitability.

Previous wording

Changes in the estimated fair value of debt securities may reduce stockholders' equity and net income.

Current wording

Changes in the estimated fair value of debt securities may reduce stockholders' equity.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, the Corporation maintained a debt securities portfolio of $497.3 million, of which $351.6 million was classified as available-for-sale. The estimated fair value of the available-for-sale debt securities portfolio may change depending on the credit quality of the underlying issuer, market liquidity, changes in interest rates and other factors. Stockholders' equity is increased or decreased by the amount of the change in the unrealized gain or loss (difference between the estimated fair value and the amortized cost) of the available-for-sale debt securities portfolio, net of the related tax expense or benefit, under the category of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). During the year ended December 31, 2023, we incurred other comprehensive gains of $5.7 million related to net changes in unrealized holding losses in the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio. A decline in the estimated fair value of this portfolio will result in a decline in stockholders' equity, as well as book value per common share. The decrease will occur even though the securities are not sold.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, the Corporation maintained a debt securities portfolio of $491.5 million, of which $357.4 million was classified as available-for-sale. The estimated fair value of the available-for-sale debt securities portfolio may change depending on changes in interest rates, the credit quality of the underlying issuer, market liquidity and other factors. Stockholders' equity is increased or decreased by the amount of the change in the unrealized gain or loss (the difference between the estimated fair value and the amortized cost) of the available-for-sale debt securities portfolio, net of the related tax expense or benefit, under the category of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). During the year ended December 31, 2024, we incurred other comprehensive losses of $796 thousand related to net changes in unrealized holding losses in the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio. A decline in the estimated fair value of this portfolio will result in a decline in stockholders' equity, as well as book value per common share. The decrease will occur even though the securities are not sold.

Previous wording

The Corporation is subject to lending risk.

Current wording

We are subject to lending risk.

Previous wording

Risks associated with lending activities include, among other things, the impact of changes in interest rates and economic conditions, which may adversely impact the ability of borrowers to repay outstanding loans and the value of the associated collateral. Various laws and regulations also affect our lending activities, and failure to comply with such applicable laws and regulations could subject the Corporation to enforcement actions and civil monetary penalties.

Current wording

Risks associated with lending activities include, among other things, the impact of changes in interest rates and economic conditions, which may adversely impact the ability of borrowers to repay outstanding loans and the value of the associated collateral. Various laws and regulations also affect our lending activities, and failure to comply with such applicable laws and regulations could subject us to enforcement actions and civil monetary penalties.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, approximately 79.2% of our loan and lease portfolio consisted of commercial, financial and agricultural, commercial real estate and construction loans and leases, which are generally perceived as having more risk of default than residential real estate loans. Commercial business, commercial real estate and construction loans are more susceptible to a risk of loss during a downturn in the business cycle. These types of loans involve larger loan balances to a single borrower or groups of related borrowers. Commercial real estate loans may be affected to a greater extent than residential loans by adverse conditions in real estate markets or the economy because commercial real estate borrowers' ability to repay their loans depends on successful development of their properties and the successful operation of the borrower's business, as well as the factors affecting residential real estate borrowers.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, approximately 78.8% of our loan and lease portfolio consisted of commercial, financial and agricultural, commercial real estate and construction loans and leases, which are generally perceived as having more risk of default than residential real estate loans. Commercial business, commercial real estate and construction loans are more susceptible to a risk of loss during a downturn in the business cycle. These types of loans involve larger loan balances to a single borrower or groups of related borrowers. Commercial real estate loans may be affected to a greater extent than residential loans by adverse conditions in real estate markets or the economy because commercial real estate borrowers' ability to repay their loans depends on successful development of their properties and the successful operation of the borrower's business.

Previous wording

Loans secured by properties where repayment is dependent upon payment of rent by third party tenants or the sale of the property may be impacted by loss of tenants, lower lease rates needed to attract new tenants.

Current wording

Loans secured by properties where repayment is dependent upon payment of rent by third party tenants or the sale of the property may be impacted by loss of tenants or lower lease rates needed to attract new tenants.

Previous wording

Risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon whether our initial estimate of the property's value at completion of construction equals or exceeds the cost of the property construction (including interest). During the construction phase, a number of factors can result in delays and cost overruns. If estimates of value are inaccurate or if actual construction costs exceed estimates, the value of the property securing the loan may be insufficient to ensure full repayment when completed. Included in real estate-construction is track development financing, which has greater risk because of the potential for diminished demand for residential housing and decreases in real estate valuations. When projects move slower than anticipated, the properties may have significantly lower values than when the original underwriting was completed, resulting in lower collateral values to support the loan. Extended time frames may also cause the interest carrying cost for projects to be higher than the builder projected, negatively impacting the builder's profit and cash flows and, therefore, their ability to make principal and interest payments.

Current wording

Risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon whether our initial estimate of the property's value at completion of construction equals or exceeds the cost of the property construction (including interest). During the construction phase, a number of factors can result in delays and cost overruns. If our estimates of value are inaccurate or if actual construction costs exceed estimates, the value of the property securing the loan may be insufficient to ensure full repayment when completed. Included in real estate-construction is tract development financing, which has greater risk because of the potential for diminished demand for residential housing and decreases in real estate valuations. When projects move slower than anticipated, the properties may have significantly lower values than when the original underwriting was completed, resulting in lower collateral values to support the loan. Extended time frames may also cause the interest carrying cost for projects to be higher than the builder projected, negatively impacting the builder's profit and cash flows and, therefore, their ability to make principal and interest payments.

Previous wording

The Corporation's allowance for credit losses on loans and leases may be insufficient, and an increase in the allowance would reduce earnings.

Current wording

Our allowance for credit losses on loans and leases may be insufficient, and an increase in the allowance would reduce earnings.

Previous wording

We maintain an allowance for credit losses on loans and leases. The allowance is established through a provision for credit losses on loans and leases based on management's evaluation of current expected credit losses in our loan portfolio factoring in current and forecasted economic conditions. The allowance is based upon a number of factors, including the size and composition of the loan and lease portfolio, asset classifications, economic trends, industry experience and trends, industry and geographic concentrations, collateral values, management's assessment of the current expected credit losses in the portfolio, historical loan and lease loss experience and loan underwriting policies. In addition, we evaluate all loans and leases identified as not sharing similar risk characteristics with other pooled loans and leases and augment the allowance based upon our estimation of the potential loss associated with those individually analyzed loans and leases. Additions to our allowance for credit losses on loans and leases decrease our net income.

Current wording

We maintain an allowance for credit losses on loans and leases. The allowance is established through a provision for credit losses on loans and leases based on management's evaluation of current expected credit losses in our loan portfolio factoring in current and forecasted economic conditions. The allowance is based upon a number of factors, including the size and composition of the loan and lease portfolio, asset classifications, economic trends, industry loss experience and trends, industry and geographic concentrations, collateral values, historical loan and lease loss experience and loan underwriting policies. In addition, we evaluate all loans and leases identified as not sharing similar risk characteristics with other pooled loans and leases and augment the allowance based upon our estimation of the potential loss associated with those individually analyzed loans and leases. Additions to our allowance for credit losses on loans and leases decrease our net income.

Previous wording

Changes in national and regional economic conditions could impact our loan and lease portfolios. For example, an increase in unemployment, an increase in inflation, potential recessionary conditions, a decrease in real estate values or changes in interest rates, as well as other factors, could weaken the economies of the communities we serve. Weakness in the market areas we serve could depress our earnings as customers may not demand our products or services, borrowers may not be able to repay their loans, the value of the collateral securing our loans to borrowers may decline and/or the quality of our loan portfolio may decline. Any of these scenarios could require us to charge-off loans, which could result in an increase to our provision for credit losses on loans and leases, which would reduce our net income and capital levels.

Current wording

Changes in national and regional economic conditions could impact our loan and lease portfolios. For example, an increase in unemployment, an increase in inflation, potential recessionary conditions, the imposition of tariffs, a decrease in real estate values or changes in interest rates, as well as other factors, could weaken the economies of the communities we serve. Weakness in the market areas we serve could depress our earnings as customers may not demand our products or services, borrowers may not be able to repay their loans, the value of the collateral securing our loans to borrowers may decline and/or the quality of our loan portfolio may decline. Any of these scenarios could require us to charge-off loans, which could result in an increase to our provision for credit losses on loans and leases, which would reduce our net income and capital levels.

Previous wording

The concentration and mix of our assets could increase the potential for significant credit losses. In the ordinary course of business, we may have heightened credit exposure to a particular industry, geography, asset class or financial market. Although there are limitations on the extent of total exposure to an individual consumer or business borrower, events adversely affecting specific customers or counterparties, industries, geographies, asset classes or financial markets, including a decline in their creditworthiness or a worsening overall risk profile, could materially affect us. The schedule on page 39 provides a break-out of our loan portfolio by certain loan and industry types.

Current wording

The concentration and mix of our assets could increase the potential for credit losses. In the ordinary course of business, we may have heightened credit exposure to a particular industry, geography, asset class or financial market. Although there are limitations on the extent of total exposure to an individual consumer or business borrower, events adversely affecting specific customers or counterparties, industries, geographies, asset classes or financial markets, including a decline in their creditworthiness or a worsening overall risk profile, could materially affect us. The schedule on page 42 provides a break-out of our loan portfolio by certain loan and industry types.

Previous wording

In the course of our business, we may foreclose and take title to real estate and could be subject to environmental liabilities with respect to these properties. The Corporation may be held liable to a governmental entity or to third parties for property damage, personal injury, investigation and clean-up costs incurred by these parties in connection with environmental contamination or the release of hazardous or toxic substances at a property. Our policies and procedures require environmental factors to be considered during the loan application process. An environmental review is performed before initiating any commercial foreclosure action; however, these reviews may not be sufficient to detect all potential environmental hazards. Possible remediation costs and liabilities could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition.

Current wording

In the course of our business, we may foreclose and take title to real estate and could be subject to environmental liabilities with respect to these properties. We may be held liable to a governmental entity or to third parties for property damage, personal injury, investigation and clean-up costs incurred by these parties in connection with environmental contamination or the release of hazardous or toxic substances at a property. Our policies and procedures require environmental factors to be considered during the loan application process. An environmental review is performed before initiating any commercial foreclosure action; however, these reviews may not be sufficient to detect all potential environmental hazards. Possible remediation costs and liabilities could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition.

Previous wording

Our management and board review and update the Corporation's internal controls over financial reporting, disclosure controls and procedures, and corporate governance policies and procedures. Any system of controls, however well designed and operated, is based in part on certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are met. Any failure to follow or circumvention of these controls, policies and procedures could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our management and board review and update our internal controls over financial reporting, disclosure controls and procedures, and corporate governance policies and procedures. Any system of controls, however well designed and operated, is based in part on certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are met. Any failure to follow or circumvention of these controls, policies and procedures could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

A lack of liquidity could adversely affect the Corporation's financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

A lack of liquidity could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Liquidity is essential to the Corporation's business. The Corporation relies on its ability to generate deposits and effectively manage the repayment of its liabilities to ensure that there is adequate liquidity to fund operations. An inability to raise funds through deposits, borrowings, the sale and maturities of loans and securities and other sources could have a substantial negative effect on liquidity. The Corporation's most important source of funds is its deposits. Deposit balances can decrease when customers perceive alternative investments as providing a better risk adjusted return, which are strongly influenced by such external factors as the direction of interest rates, local and national economic conditions and the availability and attractiveness of alternative investments. Further, the demand for deposits may be reduced due to a variety of factors such as negative trends in the banking sector, the level of and/or composition of our uninsured deposits, demographic patterns, changes in customer preferences, reductions in consumers' disposable income, the monetary policy of the FRB or regulatory actions that decrease customer access to particular products. If customers move money out of bank deposits and into other investments such as money market funds, the Corporation would lose a relatively low-cost source of funds, which would increase its funding costs and reduce net interest income. Any changes made to the rates offered on deposits to remain competitive with other financial institutions may also adversely affect profitability and liquidity. Other primary sources of funds consist of cash flows from operations, maturities and sales of investment securities and/or loans, brokered deposits, borrowings from the FHLB and/or FRB discount window, and unsecured borrowings. The Corporation also may borrow funds from third-party lenders, such as other financial institutions. The Corporation's access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance or capitalize its activities, or on terms that are acceptable, could be impaired by factors that affect the Corporation directly or the financial services industry or economy in general, such as disruptions in the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry, a decrease in the level of the Corporation's business activity as a result of a downturn in markets or by one or more adverse regulatory actions against the Corporation or the financial sector in general. Any decline in available funding could adversely impact the Corporation's ability to originate loans, invest in securities, meet expenses, or to fulfill obligations such as meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could have a material adverse impact on its liquidity, business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Liquidity is essential to our business. We rely on its ability to generate deposits and effectively manage the repayment of its liabilities to ensure that there is adequate liquidity to fund operations. An inability to raise funds through deposits, borrowings, the sale and maturities of loans and securities and other sources could have a substantial negative effect on liquidity. Our most important source of funds is our deposits. Deposit balances can decrease when customers perceive alternative investments as providing a better risk adjusted return, which are strongly influenced by such external factors as the direction and level of interest rates, local and national economic conditions and the availability and attractiveness of alternative investments. Further, the demand for deposits may be reduced due to a variety of factors such as negative trends in the banking sector, the level of and/or composition of our uninsured deposits, demographic patterns, changes in customer preferences, reductions in consumers' disposable income, the monetary policy of the FRB or regulatory actions that decrease customer access to particular products. If customers move money out of bank deposits and into other investments such as money market funds, we would lose a relatively low-cost source of funds, which would increase our funding costs and reduce net interest income. Any changes made to the rates offered on deposits to remain competitive with other financial institutions may also adversely affect profitability and liquidity. Other primary sources of funds consist of cash flows from operations, maturities and sales of investment securities and/or loans, brokered deposits, borrowings from the FHLB and/or FRB discount window, and unsecured borrowings. We also may borrow funds from third-party lenders, such as other financial institutions. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance or capitalize our activities, or on terms that are acceptable, could be impaired by factors that affect us directly or the financial services industry or economy in general, such as disruptions in the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry, a decrease in the level of our business activity as a result of a downturn in markets or by one or more adverse regulatory actions against us or the financial sector in general. Any decline in available funding could adversely impact our ability to originate loans, invest in securities, meet expenses, or to fulfill obligations such as meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could have a material adverse impact on our liquidity, business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Our profitability depends in part on our success in attracting and retaining a stable base of low-cost deposits. At December 31, 2023, 23% of our deposit base was comprised of noninterest-bearing deposits, of which 16% consisted of business deposits, which are primarily operating accounts for businesses, and 7% consisted of consumer deposits. The competition for these deposits in our markets is strong and customers are increasingly seeking investments with higher interest rates that are safe, including the purchase of U.S. Treasury securities and other government-guaranteed obligations, as well as the establishment of accounts at the largest, most well-capitalized banks. If we were to lose a significant portion of our low-cost deposits, it would negatively impact our liquidity and profitability.

Current wording

Our profitability depends in part on our success in attracting and retaining a stable base of low-cost deposits. At December 31, 2024, 21% of our deposit base was comprised of noninterest-bearing deposits, of which 14% consisted of business deposits, which are primarily operating accounts for businesses, and 7% consisted of consumer deposits. The competition for these deposits is strong and customers are increasingly seeking investments with higher interest rates that are safe, including the purchase of U.S. Treasury securities and other government-guaranteed obligations, as well as the establishment of accounts at the largest, most well-capitalized banks. If we were to lose a significant portion of our low-cost deposits, it would negatively impact our liquidity and profitability.

Previous wording

The Corporation's information technology systems, and the systems of third parties upon which the Corporation relies, may experience a failure, interruption or breach in security, which could negatively affect our operations and reputation.

Current wording

Our information technology systems, and the systems of third parties upon which we rely, may experience a failure, interruption or breach in security, which could negatively affect our operations and reputation.

Previous wording

The Corporation heavily relies on information technology systems, including the systems of third-party service providers, to conduct its business. Any failure, interruption, or breach in security or operational integrity of these systems could result in failures or disruptions in the Corporation's customer relationship management and general ledger, deposit, loan, and other systems. While the Corporation has policies and procedures designed to prevent or limit the impact of any failure, interruption, or breach in its security systems (including cyber-attacks), there can be no assurance that such events will not occur or if they do occur, that they will be adequately addressed. Information security and cyber security risks have increased significantly in recent years because of new technologies and the increased number of employees working remotely and the increased use of the Internet and other electronic delivery channels (including mobile devices) to conduct financial transactions. Accordingly, the Corporation may be required to expend additional resources to enhance its protective measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities or exposures. The occurrence of any system failures, interruptions, or breaches in security could expose the Corporation to reputation risk, litigation, regulatory scrutiny and possible financial liability that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

We heavily rely on information technology systems, including the systems of third-party service providers, to conduct our business. Any failure, interruption, or breach in security or operational integrity of these systems could result in failures or disruptions in our customer relationship management and general ledger, deposit, loan, and other systems. While we have policies and procedures designed to prevent or limit the impact of any failure, interruption, or breach in its security systems (including cyber-attacks), there can be no assurance that such events will not occur or if they do occur, that they will be adequately addressed. Information security and cyber security risks have increased significantly in recent years because of new technologies and the increased number of employees working remotely and the increased use of the Internet and other electronic delivery channels (including mobile devices) to conduct financial transactions. Accordingly, we may be required to expend additional resources to enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities or exposures. The occurrence of any system failures, interruptions, or breaches in security could expose us to reputation risk, litigation, regulatory scrutiny and possible financial liability that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Although the Corporation takes protective measures to maintain the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information, its computer systems, software and networks may be vulnerable to unauthorized access, loss or destruction of data (including confidential client information), account takeovers, unavailability of service, computer viruses or other malicious code, cyber-attacks and other events that could have an adverse security impact. Furthermore, the Corporation may not be able to ensure that all of its clients, suppliers, counterparties and other third parties have appropriate controls in place to protect themselves from cyber-attacks or to protect the confidentiality of the information that they exchange with us, particularly where such information is transmitted by electronic means. Although the Corporation has developed, and continues to invest in, systems and processes that are designed to detect and prevent security breaches and cyber-attacks, a breach of its systems and global payments infrastructure or those of our fintech partners and processors could result in: losses to the Corporation and its customers; loss of business and/or customers; damage to its reputation; the incurrence of additional expenses (including the cost of investigation and remediation and the cost of notification to consumers, credit monitoring and forensics, and fees and fines imposed by the card networks); disruption to its business; an inability to grow its online services or other businesses; additional regulatory scrutiny or penalties; and/or exposure to civil litigation and possible financial liability - any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation’s reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations. Although the impact to date for these type of events has not had a material impact on us, we cannot be sure this will be the case in the future.

Current wording

Although we take protective measures to maintain the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information, its computer systems, software and networks may be vulnerable to unauthorized access, loss or destruction of data (including confidential client information), account takeovers, unavailability of service, computer viruses or other malicious code, cyber-attacks and other events that could have an adverse security impact. Furthermore, we may not be able to ensure that all of our clients, suppliers, counterparties and other third parties have appropriate controls in place to protect themselves from cyber-attacks or to protect the confidentiality of the information that they exchange with us, particularly where such information is transmitted by electronic means. Although we have developed, and continue to invest in, systems and processes that are designed to detect and prevent security breaches and cyber-attacks, a breach of our systems and global payments infrastructure or those of our fintech partners and processors could result in: losses to us and our customers; loss of business and/or customers; damage to its reputation; the incurrence of additional expenses (including the cost of investigation and remediation and the cost of notification to consumers, credit monitoring and forensics, and fees and fines imposed by the card networks); disruption to our business; an inability to grow our online services or other businesses; additional regulatory scrutiny, investigation or penalties; and/or exposure to civil litigation and possible financial liability - any of which could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations. Although the impact to date for these types of events has not had a material impact on us, we cannot be sure this will be the case in the future.

Previous wording

Our future success depends, in part, on our ability to effectively embrace technology to better serve customers and reduce costs. The Corporation has been required, and may be required in the future, to expand additional resources to employ the latest technologies. Failure to keep pace with technological change could potentially have an adverse effect on our business operations and financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our future success depends, in part, on our ability to effectively embrace technology to better serve customers and reduce costs. We have been required, and may be required in the future, to expend additional resources to employ the latest technologies. Failure to keep pace with technological change could potentially have an adverse effect on our business operations and financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Board of Directors has established an Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee, consisting of a minimum of four directors, at least three are independent directors. The Chief Risk Officer is the primary management liaison to the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee. The Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee meets four times a year, or more frequently if needed, and provides minutes of its meetings to the Board of Directors. The Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee provides oversight, from a risk perspective, of information systems security, among other things. In that regard, the Chief Information Security Officer provides information security updates to the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee at each Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee meeting. The Corporation also engages outside consultants to support its cybersecurity efforts. Not all directors of the Corporation or members of the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee have significant experience in cybersecurity risk management in other business entities comparable to the Corporation, and directors rely on the Chief Risk Officer, the Chief Information Security Officer and consultants for cybersecurity guidance.

Current wording

The Board of Directors has established an Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee, consisting of a minimum of four directors, at least three of which are independent directors. The Chief Risk Officer is the primary management liaison to the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee. The Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee meets four times a year, or more frequently if needed, and provides minutes of its meetings to the Board of Directors. The Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee provides oversight, from a risk perspective, of information systems security, among other things. In that regard, the Chief Information Security Officer provides information security updates to the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee at each Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee meeting. We also engage outside consultants to support our cybersecurity efforts. Not all of our directors or members of the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee have significant experience in cybersecurity risk management in other business entities comparable to the Corporation, and directors rely on the Chief Risk Officer, the Chief Information Security Officer and consultants for cybersecurity guidance.

Previous wording

We are a community bank, and our reputation is one of the most valuable components of our business. A key component of our business strategy is to rely on our reputation for customer service and knowledge of local markets to expand our presence by capturing new business opportunities from existing and prospective customers in our market area and contiguous areas. Threats to our reputation can come from many sources, including adverse sentiment about financial institutions generally, unethical practices, employee misconduct, failure to deliver minimum standards of service or quality, compliance deficiencies, cybersecurity incidents and questionable or fraudulent activities of our customers. Negative publicity regarding our business, employees, or customers, with or without merit, may result in the loss of customers and employees, costly litigation and increased governmental regulation, all of which could adversely affect our business and operating results.

Current wording

We are a community bank, and our reputation is one of the most valuable components of our business. A key component of our business strategy is to rely on our reputation for integrity, reliability, customer service and knowledge of local markets to expand our presence by capturing new business opportunities from existing and prospective customers in our market area and contiguous areas. Threats to our reputation can come from many sources, including adverse sentiment about financial institutions generally, unethical practices, employee misconduct, failure to deliver minimum standards of service or quality, compliance deficiencies, cybersecurity incidents and questionable or fraudulent activities of our customers. Negative publicity regarding our business, employees, or customers, with or without merit, may result in the loss of customers and employees, costly litigation and increased governmental regulation, all of which could adversely affect our business and operating results.

Previous wording

Natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, outbreaks or escalations of hostilities and other external events could negatively impact the Corporation.

Current wording

Natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, outbreaks or escalations of hostilities and other external events could negatively impact us.

Previous wording

Natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, outbreaks or escalations of hostilities, the emergence of widespread health emergencies or pandemics and other adverse external events could have a significant impact on the Corporation's ability to conduct business. In addition, such events could affect the stability of the Corporation's deposit base, impair the ability of borrowers to repay outstanding loans, impair the value of collateral securing loans, cause significant property damage, result in loss of revenue and/or cause the Corporation to incur additional expenses. We have established disaster recovery policies and procedures that are expected to mitigate events related to natural or man-made disasters; however, the occurrence of any such event and the impact of an overall economic decline resulting from such a disaster could have a material adverse effect on the Corporation's financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, outbreaks or escalations of hostilities, the emergence of widespread health emergencies or pandemics and other adverse external events could have a significant impact on our ability to conduct business. In addition, such events could affect the stability of our deposit base, impair the ability of borrowers to repay outstanding loans, impair the value of collateral securing loans, cause significant property damage, result in loss of revenue and/or cause us to incur additional expenses. We have established disaster recovery policies and procedures that are expected to mitigate events related to natural or man-made disasters; however, the occurrence of any such event and the impact of an overall economic decline resulting from such a disaster could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. In response to a pronounced rise in inflation, the FRB has raised certain benchmark interest rates to combat inflation. As discussed above under “Risks Related to Market Interest Rates – The Corporation is subject to interest rate risk,” as inflation increases and market interest rates rise the value of our investment securities, particularly those with longer maturities, would decrease, although this effect can be less pronounced for floating rate instruments. In addition, inflation generally increases the cost of goods and services we use in our business operations, such as electricity and other utilities, which increases our non-interest expenses. Furthermore, our customers are also affected by inflation and the rising costs of goods and services used in their households and businesses, which could have a negative impact on their ability to repay their loans with us. Sustained higher interest rates by the FRB to tame persistent inflationary price pressures could also push down asset prices, reduce loan demand, increase deposit costs and weaken economic activity. A deterioration in economic conditions in the United States and our markets could result in an increase in loan delinquencies and non-performing assets, decreases in loan collateral values and a decrease in demand for our products and services, all of which, in turn, would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. The FRB had raised certain benchmark interest rates to combat inflation. However, in September, the FRB reduced rates by 50 basis points and by an additional 25 basis points in November and December, respectively. As discussed above under “Risks Related to Market Interest Rates – We are subject to interest rate risk,” as inflation increases and market interest rates rise the value of our investment securities, particularly those with longer maturities, would decrease, although this effect can be less pronounced for floating rate instruments. In addition, inflation generally increases the cost of goods and services we use in our business operations, such as electricity and other utilities, which increases our non-interest expenses. Furthermore, our customers are also affected by inflation and the rising costs of goods and services used in their households and businesses, which could have a negative impact on their ability to repay their loans with us. A deterioration in economic conditions in the United States and our markets could result in an increase in loan delinquencies and non-performing assets, decreases in loan collateral values and a decrease in demand for our products and services, all of which, in turn, would adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Corporation's earnings are impacted by general business and economic conditions.

Current wording

Our earnings are impacted by general business and economic conditions.

Previous wording

The Corporation's operations and profitability are impacted by general business and economic conditions, including long-term and short-term interest rates, the shape of the interest rate curve, inflation, money supply, supply chain issues, political issues, legislative, tax, accounting and regulatory changes, fluctuations in both debt and equity capital markets, broad trends in industry and finance, values of real estate and other collateral and the strength of the U.S. economy and the local economies in which we operate, all of which are beyond our control. Negative changes in these general business and economic conditions could have the following consequences, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations:

Current wording

Our operations and profitability are impacted by general business and economic conditions, including long-term and short-term interest rates, the shape of the interest rate curve, inflation, the imposition of tariffs or other domestic or international governmental policies, money supply, supply chain issues, political issues, legislative, tax, accounting and regulatory changes, fluctuations in both debt and equity capital markets, broad trends in industry and finance, values of real estate and other collateral and the strength of the U.S. economy and the local economies in which we operate, all of which are beyond our control. Negative changes in these general business and economic conditions could have the following consequences, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations:

Previous wording

•increase in our funding costs and noninterest expenses;

Current wording

•our funding costs and noninterest expenses may increase;

Previous wording

The Corporation's profitability is affected by economic conditions in Pennsylvania and New Jersey markets.

Current wording

Our profitability is affected by economic conditions in our markets.

Previous wording

Unlike larger regional banks that operate in large geographies, the Corporation provides banking and financial services to customers primarily in 19 counties in the Southeastern, Central and Western regions of Pennsylvania, three counties in New Jersey and four counties in Maryland. Because of our geographic concentration, a downturn in the local economy could make it more difficult to attract loans and deposits, and could cause higher losses and delinquencies on our loans than if the loans were more geographically diversified. Adverse economic conditions in the region, including, without limitation, declining real estate values or higher unemployment, could cause our levels of nonperforming assets and loan losses to increase. Regional economic conditions have a significant impact on the ability of borrowers to repay their loans as scheduled. A sluggish local economy could, therefore, result in losses that materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Unlike larger regional banks that operate in large geographies, we provide banking and financial services to customers primarily in 19 counties in the Southeastern, Central and Western regions of Pennsylvania, three counties in New Jersey and four counties in Maryland. Because of our geographic concentration, a downturn in the local economy could make it more difficult to attract loans and deposits, and could cause higher losses and delinquencies on our loans than if the loans were more geographically diversified. Adverse economic conditions in the region, including, without limitation, declining real estate values or higher unemployment, could cause our levels of nonperforming assets and loan losses to increase. Regional economic conditions have a significant impact on the ability of borrowers to repay their loans as scheduled. A sluggish local economy could, therefore, result in losses that materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We are subject to extensive regulation, supervision, and examination by our primary regulators, the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities and the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, and by the FDIC, the regulating authority that insures customer deposits. Also, as a member of the FHLB, the Bank must comply with applicable regulations of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and the FHLB. Regulation by these agencies is intended primarily for the protection of our depositors and the deposit insurance fund and not for the benefit of our shareholders. The Bank's activities are also regulated under consumer protection laws applicable to our lending, deposit, and other activities. A material claim against the Bank under these laws or an enforcement action by our regulators could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. These regulations, along with the currently existing tax, accounting, securities, deposit insurance and monetary laws, rules, standards, policies, and interpretations, control the ways financial institutions conduct business, implement strategic initiatives, and prepare financial reporting and disclosures. Regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the ability to impose restrictions on our operations and comment on the classification of our assets and the level of our allowance for credit losses. Changes in such regulation and oversight, whether in the form of regulatory or enforcement policy, new regulations, legislation or supervisory action, may have a material impact on our operations. Further, compliance with such regulation may increase our costs and limit our ability to pursue business opportunities.

Current wording

We are subject to extensive regulation, supervision, and examination by our primary regulators, the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities and the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, and by the FDIC, the regulating authority that insures customer deposits. The Bank also must comply with applicable regulations of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and the FHLB. Regulation by these agencies is intended primarily for the protection of our depositors and the deposit insurance fund and not for the benefit of our shareholders. The Bank's activities are also regulated under consumer protection laws applicable to our lending, deposit, and other activities. A material claim against the Bank under these laws or an enforcement action by our regulators could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. These regulations, along with the currently existing tax, accounting, securities, deposit insurance and monetary laws, rules, standards, policies, and interpretations, control the ways financial institutions conduct business, implement strategic initiatives, and prepare financial reporting and disclosures. Regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the ability to impose restrictions on our operations and comment on the classification of our assets and the level of our allowance for credit losses. Changes in such regulation and oversight, whether in the form of regulatory or enforcement policy, new regulations, legislation or supervisory action, may have a material impact on our operations. Further, compliance with such regulation may increase our costs and limit our ability to pursue business opportunities.

Previous wording

The Corporation operates in a highly competitive industry and market area, which could adversely impact its business and results of operations.

Current wording

We operate in a highly competitive industry and market area, which could adversely impact its business and results of operations.

Previous wording

We face substantial competition from a variety of different competitors. Our competitors, including commercial banks, community banks, savings institutions, credit unions, consumer finance companies, insurance companies, securities dealers, brokers, mortgage bankers, investment advisors, money market mutual funds and other financial technology and financial institutions, compete with us for loans and deposits and insurance and wealth management services offered by us. Increased competition in our markets may result in reduced loans and deposits, less wealth management fees or insurance revenues or may negatively impact the pricing of such products and services.

Current wording

We face substantial competition from a variety of different competitors. Our competitors, including commercial banks, community banks, savings institutions, credit unions, consumer finance companies, insurance companies, securities dealers, brokers, mortgage bankers, investment advisors, money market mutual funds and other financial technology and financial institutions, compete with us for loans and deposits and insurance and wealth management services. Increased competition in our markets may result in reduced loans and deposits, less wealth management fees or insurance revenues or may negatively impact the pricing of such products and services.

Previous wording

Many of these competing institutions have much greater financial and marketing resources than we have. Due to their size, many competitors can achieve larger economies of scale and may offer a broader range of products and services than we can. If we are unable to compete effectively in the offerings of our products and services, our business may be negatively affected. Additionally, these competitors may offer higher interest rates than the Corporation, which could decrease the deposits that the Corporation attracts or require the Corporation to increase its rates to retain existing deposits or attract new deposits. Increased deposit competition could adversely affect the Corporation’s ability to generate the funds necessary for lending operations. As a result, the Corporation may need to seek other sources of funds that may be more expensive to obtain, which could increase the cost of funds and decrease profitability.

Current wording

Many of these competing institutions have much greater financial and marketing resources than we have. Due to their size, many competitors can achieve larger economies of scale and may offer a broader range of products and services than we can. If we are unable to compete effectively in the offerings of our products and services, our business may be negatively affected. Additionally, these competitors may offer higher interest rates than we do, which could decrease the deposits that we attract or require us to increase our rates to retain existing deposits or attract new deposits. Increased deposit competition could adversely affect our ability to generate the funds necessary for lending operations. As a result, we may need to seek other sources of funds that may be more expensive to obtain, which could increase the cost of funds and decrease profitability.

Previous wording

We have devoted substantial resources to our strategic digital initiatives. The success of these initiatives will depend on, among other things, our ability to upgrade our technology and digital solutions in a manner that improves experiences of customers and employees. If we are unable to successfully achieve this objective, the anticipated benefits of these initiatives may not be realized fully, or at all, or may take longer to realize than expected. Additionally, the implementation of new technologies and digital solutions may cause business disruptions that affect our ability to maintain relationships with clients, customers, depositors and employees and could have an adverse effect on us for an undetermined period.

Current wording

We have devoted substantial time and resources to our strategic digital initiatives. The success of these initiatives will depend on, among other things, whether our upgraded technology and digital solutions are received favorably by our customers and employees and improves their experiences and interactions with us. If we are unable to successfully achieve these objectives, the anticipated benefits of these initiatives may not be realized fully, or at all, or may take longer to realize than expected.