UNIVEST FINANCIAL Corp

Previous 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.

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, the impact of the imposition of tariffs, adverse regulatory or political 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

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.

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. Should the yield curve invert, 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. Our interest-bearing liabilities generally have shorter contractual maturities than our interest-earning assets. This imbalance can create significant earnings volatility because market interest rates change over time. In a period of declining interest rates, the interest income we earn on our interest-earning assets may decrease more rapidly than the interest we pay on our interest-bearing liabilities, as borrowers prepay mortgage loans and as mortgage-backed securities and callable investment securities are called, requiring us to reinvest those cash flows at lower, prevailing interest rates. Conversely, in a period of rising interest rates, the interest income we earn on our interest-earning assets may not increase as rapidly as the interest we pay on deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities. In addition to these factors, if market interest rates rise rapidly, interest rate adjustment caps may limit increases in the interest rates on adjustable-rate loans, thus reducing our net interest income. In a period of rising interest rates, increases in interest rates may adversely affect the ability of our borrowers to make loan repayments on adjustable-rate loans, as the interest owed on such loans would increase as interest rates increase. Furthermore, increases in interest rates may adversely affect our ability to originate loans. Also, certain adjustable-rate loans re-price based on lagging interest rate indices. This lagging effect may also negatively impact our net interest income when general interest rates continue to rise periodically.

Previous 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.

Current wording

At December 31, 2025, the Corporation maintained a debt securities portfolio of $494.3 million, of which $371.3 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 increases or decreases 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). At December 31, 2025, accumulated other comprehensive income was $13.6 million related to unrealized holding gains 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

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.

Current wording

Risks associated with lending are impacted by, among other things, 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, 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.

Current wording

At December 31, 2025, approximately 79.7% 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. These loans also expose us to greater credit risk than loans secured by residential real estate because the collateral securing these loans typically cannot be liquidated as easily as residential real estate. If we foreclose on these loans, our holding period for the collateral typically is longer than for a single or multi-family residential property because there are fewer potential purchasers of the collateral. 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

If the evaluation we perform in connection with establishing loan and lease loss reserves is wrong, our allowance for credit losses on loans and leases may not be sufficient to cover our losses, which would have an adverse effect on our operating results.

Current wording

If the evaluation we perform in connection with establishing loan and lease loss reserves is wrong or the assumptions on which we rely prove to be incorrect, our allowance for credit losses on loans and leases may not be sufficient to cover our losses or adjustments may be necessary to address different economic conditions or adverse development in the loan portfolio, which would have an adverse effect on our operating results.

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. 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.

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. The costs associated with investigation or remediation activities could be substantial. In addition, if we are the owner or former owner of a contaminated site, we may be subject to claims by third parties based on damages and costs resulting from environmental contamination emanating from the property. In addition, future laws or more stringent interpretations or enforcement policies with respect to existing laws may increase our exposure to environmental liability. 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

We are dependent on the ability and experience of a number of key management personnel who have substantial experience with our operations, the financial services industry, and the markets in which we offer products and services. The loss of one or more senior executives or key managers may have an adverse effect on our businesses. We maintain change in control agreements and grant equity awards with time-based vesting with certain executive officers to aid in our retention of these individuals. Our success depends on our ability to continue to attract, manage, and retain these and other qualified management personnel.

Current wording

We are dependent on the ability and experience of a number of key management personnel who have substantial experience with our operations, the financial services industry, and the markets in which we offer products and services. Competition for qualified employees and personnel in the banking industry is intense. The process of recruiting personnel with the combination of skills and attributes required to carry out our strategies is often lengthy. The loss of one or more senior executives or key managers may have an adverse effect on our businesses. We maintain change in control agreements and grant equity awards with time-based vesting with certain executive officers to aid in our retention of these individuals. Our success depends on our ability to continue to attract, manage, and retain these and other qualified management personnel.

Previous 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.

Current wording

Liquidity is essential to our business. We rely on our ability to generate deposits and effectively manage the repayment of our 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, 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.

Current wording

Our profitability depends in part on our success in attracting and retaining a stable base of low-cost deposits. At December 31, 2025, 20% of our deposit base was comprised of noninterest-bearing deposits, of which 13% consisted of business deposits, which were 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

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.

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 our 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 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.

Current wording

Although we take protective measures to maintain the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information, our 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 vendors and processors could result in: losses to us and our customers; loss of business and/or customers; damage to our 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

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.

Current wording

The Board of Directors has established an Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee. The Chief Risk Officer is the primary management liaison to the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee. 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. While select members of the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Committee have experience in cybersecurity risk management in other business entities comparable to the Corporation, 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 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.

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, errors in the use of artificial intelligence and questionable or fraudulent activities of our customers. In addition, third parties with whom the Corporation has relationships may take actions over which the Corporation has limited control that could negatively impact perceptions about the Corporation or the financial services industry. The proliferation of social media may increase the likelihood that negative information about the Corporation, whether or not accurate, could impact the Corporation's reputation and business. 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

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.

Current wording

Inflation risk can negatively impact the value of assets or income from investments as inflation decreases the value of money. Inflation rose sharply at the end of 2021 and remained elevated through the first half of calendar 2024, before beginning to moderate in the latter half of 2024 and into calendar 2025. However, inflation levels continue to exceed the Federal Reserve Board's long-term target of 2.0%. 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.

Previous 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.

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 five counties in Maryland. Because of our geographic concentration, a downturn in the local economies 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

Any material interruption in our customers' supply chains, such as a material interruption of the resources required to conduct their business, such as those resulting from interruptions in service by third-party providers, trade restrictions, such as increased tariffs or quotas, embargoes or customs restrictions, social or labor unrest, natural disasters, epidemics or pandemics or political disputes and military conflicts, that cause a material disruption in our customers' supply chains, could have a negative impact on their business and ability to repay their borrowings with us. In the event of disruptions in our customers' supply chains, the labor and materials they rely on in the ordinary course of business may not be available at reasonable rates or at all.

Current wording

Any material interruption in our customers' supply chains, such as a material interruption of the resources required to conduct their business, such as those resulting from interruptions in service by third-party providers, trade restrictions, such as increased tariffs or quotas, embargoes or customs restrictions, restrictions in federal subsidies or grants, social or labor unrest, natural disasters, epidemics or pandemics or political disputes and military conflicts, that cause a material disruption in our customers' supply chains, could have a negative impact on their business and ability to repay their borrowings with us. In the event of disruptions in our customers' supply chains, the labor and materials they rely on in the ordinary course of business may not be available at reasonable rates or at all. Additionally, changes in distribution of federal funds or freezing federal funds, including reductions in federal workforce causing unemployment, could have an adverse effect on the ability of consumers and businesses to pay debts and/or affect the demand for loans and deposits.

Previous wording

In addition to being affected by general economic conditions, our earnings and growth are affected by the policies of the FRB. An important function of the FRB is to regulate the money supply and credit environment. Among the instruments used by the FRB to implement these objectives are open market purchases and sales of U.S. Government securities, adjustments of the discount rate and changes in banks' reserve requirements against bank deposits. These instruments are used in varying combinations to influence overall economic growth and the distribution of credit, bank loans, investments and deposits. Their use also affects interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits. The FRB's policies determine in large part the cost of funds for lending and investing and the return earned on those loans and investments, both of which affect our net interest margin. Its policies can also adversely affect borrowers, potentially increasing the risk that they may fail to repay their loans. The monetary policies and regulations of the FRB have had a significant effect on the overall economy and the operating results of financial institutions in the past and are expected to continue to do so in the future.

Current wording

In addition to being affected by general economic conditions, our earnings and growth are affected by the policies of the FRB. An important function of the FRB is to regulate the money supply and credit environment. Among the instruments used by the FRB to implement these objectives are open market purchases and sales of U.S. Government securities, adjustments of the discount rate and changes in banks' reserve requirements against bank deposits. These instruments are used in varying combinations to influence overall economic growth and the distribution of credit, bank loans, investments and deposits. The FRB's policies determine in large part the cost of funds for lending and investing and the return earned on those loans and investments, both of which affect our net interest margin. Its policies can also adversely affect borrowers, potentially increasing the risk that they may fail to repay their loans. The monetary policies and regulations of the FRB have had a significant effect on the overall economy and the operating results of financial institutions in the past and are expected to continue to do so in the future.

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. 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.

Current wording

We are subject to extensive regulation, supervision, and examination by our regulators. 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, executive orders, 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

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.

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, more accessible branch locations, higher lending limits or more favorable pricing 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 more favorable interest rates than we do, which could decrease the loans or deposits that we attract or require us to adjust our rates to retain and/or attract loans or 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

Some of the financial services organizations with which we compete are not subject to the same degree of regulation or tax structure as is imposed on bank holding companies and federally insured financial institutions. As a result, these non-bank competitors have certain advantages over us in providing lower-cost products, accessing funding and in providing various services. The banking business in our primary market areas is very competitive, and the level of competition and their pricing structure facing us may increase further, which may limit our asset growth and financial results.

Current wording

Some of the financial services organizations with which we compete are not subject to the same degree of regulation or tax structure as we are. As a result, these non-bank competitors have certain advantages over us in providing lower-cost products, accessing funding and in providing various services. The banking business in our primary market areas is very competitive, and the level of competition and their pricing structure facing us may increase further, which may limit our asset growth and financial results.

Previous wording

We regularly evaluate opportunities to acquire and invest in banks and in other complementary businesses. As a result, we may engage in negotiations or discussions that, if they were to result in a transaction, could have a material effect on our operating results and financial condition, including on our short- and long-term liquidity and capital structure. Our acquisition activities could be material to us. For example, we could issue additional shares of common stock in a merger transaction, which could dilute current shareholders' ownership interest and the per share book value of our common stock. Further, an acquisition could require us to use a substantial amount of cash, other liquid assets, and/or incur debt.

Current wording

We regularly evaluate opportunities to acquire banks and other complementary businesses. As a result, we may engage in negotiations or discussions that, if they were to result in a transaction, could have a material effect on our operating results and financial condition, including on our short- and long-term liquidity and capital structure. Our acquisition activities could be material to us. For example, we could issue additional shares of common stock in a merger transaction, which could dilute current shareholders' ownership interest and the per share book value of our common stock. Further, an acquisition could require us to use a substantial amount of cash, other liquid assets, and/or incur debt.

Previous wording

While the Corporation's common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, the trading volume has historically been less than that of larger financial services companies. Stock price volatility may make it more difficult for investors to sell their common stock when they want and at prices they find attractive.

Current wording

While the Corporation's common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, the trading volume has historically been less than that of larger financial services companies, which may make it more difficult for investors to sell their common stock when they want and at prices they find attractive.