CHOICEONE FINANCIAL SERVICES INC
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Mar 11, 2025.
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A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Mar 11, 2025
COFS$36.69-0.2%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026
What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-03-13.
0000950170-24-030747
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-03-11.
0000950170-25-036839
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 122 previous paragraphs and 117 current paragraphs.
59 unchanged; 39 reworded; 19 added; 23 removed; 1 previous and 0 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 11 previous and 11 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (19)
Current report
RECENT EVENTS
Current report
ChoiceOne and Fentura Financial, Inc., the parent company of The State Bank, entered into a definitive merger agreement on July 25, 2024 pursuant to which ChoiceOne and Fentura would merge in an all-stock transaction (the “Merger”). The Merger was effective on March 1, 2025.
Current report
On July 26, 2024, ChoiceOne completed an underwritten public offering of 1,380,000 shares of its common stock at a price to the public of $25.00 per share.
Current report
ChoiceOne's asset mix has shifted from loans held for investment of 66.5% of deposits at December 31, 2023 to 69.8% of deposits at December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2024, total assets were $2.7 billion, an increase of $146.5 million compared to December 31, 2023. The growth is primarily attributed to an increase in core loans of $114.5 million and loans to other financial institutions of $20.5 million. This growth was offset by a $48.9 million reduction in securities during the same time period. ChoiceOne has actively managed its balance sheet to support organic loan growth, strategically shifting from lower-yielding assets to higher-yielding loans. This is reflected in the loan growth experienced.
Current report
Deposits, excluding brokered deposits increased $79.0 million or 3.8% during 2024. The increase in deposits in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 is a combination of new business and recapture of deposit losses from the prior year. ChoiceOne continues to be proactive in managing its liquidity position by using brokered deposits and FHLB advances to ensure ample liquidity. At December 31, 2024, total available borrowing capacity secured by pledged assets was $837.2 million. ChoiceOne can increase its capacity by utilizing unsecured federal fund lines and pledging additional assets. Uninsured deposits totaled $833.2 million or 37.6% of deposits at December 31, 2024.
Current report
ChoiceOne's cost of deposits to average total deposits has increased from 1.14% in 2023 to 1.58% in 2024. During 2023 ChoiceOne was able to lag many of the increases to the federal funds rate which increased 425 basis points in 2022 and another 100 basis points in 2023. ChoiceOne's cost of deposits to average total deposits peaked in the first quarter of 2024, and declined slightly in subsequent quarters due to the Federal Reserve decreasing the federal funds rate by 100 basis points in the last four months of 2024. If rates continue to decline, we expect to see further reductions in deposit costs; however, these reductions will be muted by the decrease in cash flows from pay-fixed interest rate swaps collected. Interest expense on borrowings for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, increased $3.1 million compared to the same period in the prior year, due to increases in the average balance borrowed. During the fourth quarter of 2024, ChoiceOne paid down its advance from the Bank Term Funding Program and replaced it with $135.0 million of FHLB borrowings. This increased ChoiceOne's total borrowed balance at the FHLB to $175.0 million at a weighted average fixed rate of 4.5%, with the earliest maturity in January 2025.
Current report
Noninterest income increased $3.1 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase was largely due to an increase in credit and debit card fees of $1.1 million in the full year 2024 compared to the full year 2023 and earnings on life insurance policies in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year. ChoiceOne recognized earnings on two bank owned life insurance death benefit claims for a total of $700,000 during 2024. ChoiceOne also saw an increase in the market value of equity securities in the full year 2024, compared to the prior year. Equity securities include community bank stocks and CRA focused bond mutual funds. ChoiceOne additionally saw an uptick in gains on sales of loans during the fourth quarter of 2024 due in part to participation in the FHLB Rate Advantage program which provides incentives to home buyers in the low to moderate income bracket.
Current report
Noninterest expense increased by $3.6 million or 6.6% in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. The increase in total noninterest expense was due in part to merger related expenses of $1.0 million during the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $0 in the same period in the prior year. Additionally, there was an increase to employee health insurance and other benefit costs, and an increase to FDIC insurance and other costs related to the inflationary environment. The increase in costs was offset by a decline in occupancy and equipment cost related to two branch closures during the first quarter of 2024. ChoiceOne seeks to strategically manage costs while still making thoughtful investments in order to maintain our competitive edge and deliver exceptional value to our customers, shareholders, and communities.
Current report
GAAP based net interest income increased $8.6 million, and tax-equivalent net interest income increased $8.6 million, respectively, for the full year 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. GAAP based net interest margin increased 18 basis points, and tax equivalent net interest margin increased 18 basis points, respectively, in 2024 compared to 2023.
Current report
During 2023, ChoiceOne was able to lag many of the increases to the federal funds rate which increased 425 basis points in 2022 and another 100 basis points in 2023. ChoiceOne's cost of deposits to average total deposits peaked in the first quarter of 2024, and has slightly declined in subsequent quarters due to the Federal Reserve decreasing the federal funds rate by 100 basis points in the last four months of 2024. If rates continue to decline, we expect to see further reductions in deposit costs; however, these reductions will be muted by the decrease in cash flows from pay-fixed interest rate swaps collected. ChoiceOne has been able to outpace the increased cost of deposits by increased loan originations at higher average interest rates.
Current report
Note: In the table above, "consumer" includes deposit account charge-offs and recoveries.
Current report
Securities
Current report
At December 31, 2024, total available borrowing capacity secured by pledged assets was $837.2 million. ChoiceOne can increase its capacity by utilizing unsecured federal fund lines and pledging additional assets. Uninsured deposits totaled $833.2 million or 37.6% of deposits at December 31, 2024. Core deposits, which we define as insured branch deposits less certificates of deposit, totaled $1.1 billion or 51.2% of total deposits at December 31, 2024.
Current report
ChoiceOne's cost of deposits to average total deposits has increased from 1.14% in 2023 to 1.58% in 2024. During 2023 ChoiceOne was able to lag many of the increases to the federal funds rate which increased 425 basis points in 2022 and another 100 basis points in 2023. ChoiceOne's cost of deposits to average total deposits peaked in the first quarter of 2024, and has slightly declined in subsequent quarters due to the Federal Reserve decreasing the federal funds rate by 100 basis points in the last four months of 2024. If rates continue to decline, we expect to see further reductions in deposit costs; however, these reductions will be muted by the decrease in cash flows from pay-fixed interest rate swaps collected. Interest expense on borrowings for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, increased $3.1 million compared to the same period in the prior year, due to increases in the average balance borrowed. During the fourth quarter of 2024, ChoiceOne paid down its advance from the Bank Term Funding Program and replaced it with $135.0 million of FHLB borrowings. This increased ChoiceOne's total borrowed balance at the FHLB to $175.0 million at a weighted average fixed rate of 4.5%, with the earliest maturity in January 2025.
Current report
Income Adjusted for Merger Expenses - Non-GAAP Reconciliation
Current report
ACL for Securities
Current report
Identification and Classification of Merger-Related Expenses
Current report
Merger-related expenses are costs incurred directly in connection with the company's merger and acquisition activities. These expenses include legal fees for negotiation and drafting of merger agreements, accounting and auditing fees related to due diligence and financial statement preparation, consulting fees for strategic advisory services specific to the merger, costs related to regulatory filings and compliance, expenses for integration planning and execution (including IT and systems integration), severance and retention bonuses for employees affected by the merger, and travel and accommodation expenses directly related to merger activities.
Current report
To ensure accurate classification and segregation of these expenses, detailed documentation supporting the nature and purpose of each expense is maintained, including invoices, contracts, and internal memos. All merger-related expenses must be reviewed and approved by the CFO or an authorized delegate to ensure they meet the criteria for classification as merger-related. The Accounting Department conducts periodic reviews of these expenses to ensure proper classification and segregation, promptly addressing and correcting any discrepancies. Merger-related expenses are disclosed separately in the financial statements and accompanying notes to provide transparency to investors and stakeholders.
Removed paragraphs (23)
Previous report
ChoiceOne's asset mix has shifted from loans held for investment of 56.2% of deposits at December 31, 2022 to 66.5% of deposits at December 31, 2023. Total assets increased by $190.8 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. As a result of the change in asset mix and increase in total assets, interest income increased $23.9 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. This increase was driven by core loan growth of $201.5 million or 16.9%, which was partially offset by a decrease in investment securities of $33.2 million. Loans to other financial institutions, consisting of a warehouse line of credit, increased $19.4 million during the full year 2023.
Previous report
The increase in short term interest rates has led to higher deposit costs, which rose to 1.14% in 2023 compared to 0.27% in 2022 as deposits reprice and customers shift to CD and other interest bearing products. This trend is likely to persist. ChoiceOne is taking active measures to control these costs and expects to continue to pay lower rates on deposits than the federal funds rate. Interest expense on borrowings for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, increased $7.2 million, compared to the same period in the prior year, due to increases in borrowing amounts and interest rates. Borrowings include $170 million from the BTFP and $30 million of FHLB borrowings at a weighted average fixed rate of 4.7%. Total cost of funds increased to 1.44% in 2023 compared to 0.35% in 2022.
Previous report
ChoiceOne adopted CECL effective January 1, 2023 using the modified retrospective method for all financial assets measured at amortized cost and off-balance sheet credit exposures. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2023 are presented under CECL while prior period amounts are reported in accordance with the incurred loss accounting standard. The transition adjustment of the CECL adoption included an increase in the ACL of $7.2 million, which included a $5.5 million decrease to the retained earnings account to reflect the cumulative effect of adopting CECL on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, with the $1.5 million tax impact portion being recorded as part of the deferred tax asset in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. The transition adjustment of the CECL adoption included an additional ACL on unfunded commitments of $3.3 million, which included a $2.6 million decrease to the retained earnings account to reflect the cumulative effect of adopting CECL on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, with the $688,000 tax impact portion being recorded as part of the deferred tax asset in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Previous report
Purchased loans carry approximately $2.5 million of accretable yield, which will be recognized into income over the remaining life of the loans, approximately two to four years.
Previous report
Noninterest income rose by $834,000 in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase was largely due to reduced losses on the sale of securities and a decline in the change in market value of equity securities. This was partially offset by the decline in gains on sales of loans in 2023 compared to 2022. With the rapid rise in interest rates, mortgage refinancing activity slowed in 2023 and the rate environment for purchased mortgage loans became increasingly competitive. In addition, ChoiceOne recorded a BOLI claim of $274,000 in December of 2022, which was not repeated in 2023.
Previous report
Noninterest expense increased $1.6 million or 3.0% in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. The increase in total noninterest expense was largely related to inflationary pressures on employee wages and benefits and increases to FDIC insurance, partially offset by lower occupancy and data processing costs. As part of its ongoing optimization strategy, ChoiceOne intends to consolidate two of its branches by March 2024. Customers who currently use these branches will be able to access nearby ChoiceOne locations that offer the same level of service and convenience. ChoiceOne anticipates a low impact on customer retention and expects to save around $700,000 annually from this decision. Management continues to seek out ways to manage costs, but also recognizes the value of investing in innovation and attracting the best talent in our industry to compete effectively in our markets.
Previous report
Tax-equivalent net interest income declined $1.6 million for the full year 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The Federal Reserve increased the federal funds rate by 5.25% from March 31, 2022 to September 30, 2023 in response to published inflation rates. This increased rates on newly originated loans and rates paid on deposits and led to a net decline in tax equivalent net interest margin of 26 basis points in 2023 compared to 2022. GAAP based net interest margin declined 24 basis points in 2023 compared to 2022.
Previous report
2023, compared to the same period in the prior year. Interest income on securities for 2023 was reduced by $709,000 due to amortization expense related to the March 2023 sale of the pay floating swap derivative.
Previous report
On January 1, 2023, ChoiceOne adopted ASU 2016-13 CECL which caused an increase in the allowance for credit losses ("ACL") of $7.2 million. The large increase was partially due to the economic environment and the nature of the CECL calculation. Approximately 20% of this increase was related to the migration of purchased loans into the portfolio assessed by the CECL calculation. ChoiceOne also booked a liability for expected credit losses on unfunded loans and other commitments of $3.3 million related to the adoption of CECL. These unfunded loans are open credit lines with current customers and loans approved by ChoiceOne but not funded. The increase in the ACL and the cost of the liability resulted in a decrease in the retained earnings account on our Consolidated Balance Sheet equal to the after-tax impact, with the tax impact portion being recorded in deferred taxes in our Consolidated Balance Sheet in accordance with FASB guidance.
Previous report
The provision for credit losses was $1.3 million during the full year 2023, compared to $250,000 in the same period in the prior year. The provision expense was deemed necessary due to the impact of substantial core loan growth partially offset by improvements in the FOMC forecast for unemployment and GDP growth. The FOMC forecast for change in real GDP (2023) improved from 0.5% in December of 2022 to 2.6% in December of 2023 while the unemployment rate forecast (2023) improved from 4.6% in December 2022 to 3.8% in December 2023.
Previous report
Core loans, which exclude held for sale loans, and loans to other financial institutions, grew organically by $201.5 million in 2023. We have expanded our commercial lending team and improved our commercial loan process with automation. This has increased our commercial loan pipeline and growth. Our loan portfolio grew in various segments during 2023: non-owner occupied CRE loans ($77.5 million), 1-4 Family loans ($59.8 million), and construction & development loans ($57.5 million). The growth in non-owner occupied CRE loans came from our loan production offices in Holland, MI, Oakland, MI, Wyoming, MI and Macomb, MI, as experienced lenders were hired there in the past 18 months. CRE growth consisted of increases in seasoned hospitality groups, apartment buildings in the Grand Rapids, Michigan market, and professional office space in suburban areas with long-term leases and low loan to value ratios. 1-4 family loans grew as the 5/1 ARM product became popular as a mortgage option and it is less salable into the secondary market than more traditional mortgage options. The growth in construction and development loans included some apartment projects in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a healthy market with a low vacancy rate of 3.1% in 2023, according to Moody's Analytics REIS. These gains were partly offset by declines in farm & agricultural loans ($13.4 million) and consumer loans ($2.6 million) in the year ended December 31, 2023.
Previous report
Deposits, excluding brokered deposits, increased by $14.7 million or an annualized 2.8% in the fourth quarter of 2023 and decreased $17.7 million or 0.8% as of December 31, 2023 compared to December 31, 2022. The decrease in deposits since December 31, 2022 was largely concentrated in the first quarter of 2023 as a result of a combination of customers using cash on hand for debt payoffs, seasonal tax and municipal bond payments, and customers seeking higher rates in money market securities or other investments. Deposits grew in the third and fourth quarters of 2023 due to new business, recapture of deposit losses, and some seasonality in municipal balances. ChoiceOne continues to be proactive in managing its liquidity position by using brokered deposits, the Bank Term Funding Program ("BTFP"), and FHLB advances to ensure ample liquidity.
Previous report
At December 31, 2023, total available borrowing capacity from all sources was $933.3 million. Total deposits exceeding the FDIC insured limit of $250,000 for individual and $500,000 for joint accounts were $769.7 million or 36.3% of deposits at December 31, 2023, compared to $823.2 million, or 38.9% of total deposits at December 31, 2022. Core deposits, which we define as insured branch deposits less certificates of deposit, totaled $823.2 million or 38.8% of total deposits at December 31, 2023.
Previous report
The increase in short term interest rates has led to higher deposit costs, which rose to 1.57% in the last quarter of 2023, compared to 1.36% in the previous quarter and 0.47% in the fourth quarter of 2022. Deposit costs were 1.14% for the full year 2023, compared to 0.27% for the full year 2022, as deposits reprice and customers shift to CD and other interest bearing products. This trend is likely to persist. ChoiceOne is taking active measures to control these costs and expects to continue to pay lower rates on deposits than the federal funds rate. Interest expense on borrowings for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, increased $7.2 million, compared to the same period in the prior year, due to increases in borrowing amounts and interest rates. Borrowings include $170 million from the BTFP and $30 million of FHLB borrowings at a weighted average fixed rate of 4.7% at December 31, 2023. Total cost of funds increased to
Previous report
1.91% in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to 1.70% in the third quarter of 2023 and 0.59% in the fourth quarter of 2022. Total cost of funds was 1.44% for the full year 2023, compared to 0.35% for the full year 2022.
Previous report
On January 1, 2023, ChoiceOne adopted ASU 2016-13 CECL which caused an increase in the ACL of $7.2 million and booked a liability for expected credit losses on unfunded loans and other commitments of $3.3 million. The increase in the ACL and the cost of the liability resulted in a decrease in retained earnings on our consolidated balance sheet equal to the after-tax impact, with the tax impact portion being recorded in deferred taxes in our consolidated balance sheet in accordance with FASB guidance.
Previous report
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. This ASU (as subsequently amended by ASU 2018-19) significantly changed how entities measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net income. The standard replaced the former “incurred loss” approach with an “expected loss” model. The new model, referred to as the CECL model, applies to financial assets subject to credit losses and measured at amortized cost, and certain off-balance sheet credit exposures. The standard also expands the disclosure requirements regarding an entity’s assumptions, models, and methods for estimating the ACL. In addition, entities need to disclose the amortized cost balance for each class of financial asset by credit quality indicator, disaggregated by the year of origination. A reasonable and supportable economic forecast is a key component of the CECL methodology.
Previous report
ChoiceOne adopted CECL effective January 1, 2023 using the modified retrospective method for all financial assets measured at amortized cost and off-balance sheet credit exposures. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2023 are presented under CECL while prior period amounts continue to be reported in accordance with the incurred loss accounting standards. The transition adjustment of the CECL adoption included an increase in the ACL of $7.2 million, which included a $5.5 million decrease to the retained earnings account to reflect the cumulative effect of adopting CECL on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, with the $1.5 million tax impact portion being recorded as part of the deferred tax asset in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. The transition adjustment of the CECL adoption included an additional ACL on unfunded commitments of $3.3 million, which included a $2.6 million decrease to the retained earnings account to reflect the cumulative effect of adopting CECL on our Consolidated Balance Sheet, with the $688,000 tax impact portion being recorded as part of the deferred tax asset in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Previous report
Allowance for Loan Losses
Previous report
The allowance for loan losses consists of general and specific components. The general component covers non-classified loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. The specific component relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired or loans otherwise classified as substandard or doubtful. The general component of management's estimate of the allowance for loan losses covers non-impaired loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. Management's adjustment for current factors is based on trends in delinquencies, trends in charge-offs and recoveries, trends in the volume of loans, changes in underwriting standards, trends in loan review findings, experience and ability of lending staff, national and economic trends and conditions, industry conditions, trends in real estate values, and other conditions.
Previous report
A loan is impaired when full payment under the loan terms is not expected. Troubled debt restructuring of loans is undertaken to improve the likelihood that the loan will be repaid in full under the modified terms in accordance with a reasonable repayment schedule. All modified loans are evaluated to determine whether the loans should be reported as Troubled Debt Restructurings ("TDR"). A loan is a TDR when the Bank, for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower’s financial difficulties, grants a concession to the borrower by modifying a loan. To make this determination, the Bank must determine whether (a) the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties and (b) the Bank granted the borrower a concession. This determination requires consideration of all facts and circumstances surrounding the modification. An overall general decline in the economy or some deterioration in a borrower’s financial condition does not automatically mean the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties. Commercial loans are evaluated for impairment on an individual loan basis. If a loan is considered impaired or if a loan has been classified as a TDR, a portion of the allowance for loan losses is allocated to the loan so that it is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate or at the fair value of collateral if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. Large groups of smaller-balance homogeneous loans such as consumer and residential real estate mortgage loans are collectively evaluated for impairment and, accordingly, they are not separately identified for impairment disclosures.
Previous report
Management concurred with the conclusion derived from the quantitative goodwill analysis as of the valuation date and determined that there were no material changes and that no triggering events had occurred that indicated impairment from the valuation date through December 31, 2023, and as a result that it is more likely than not that there was no goodwill impairment as of December 31, 2023.
Previous report
The below table shows the inputs and assumptions addressed and the weight and nature of the impact to the analysis.
Reworded paragraphs (39)
Previous wording
ChoiceOne's net income for 2023 was $21.3 million, compared to $23.6 million in 2022. Diluted earnings per share were $2.82 in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, compared to $3.15 per share in the twelve months ended December 31, 2022.
Current wording
ChoiceOne's net income for 2024 was $26.7 million, compared to $21.3 million in 2023. Diluted earnings per share were $3.25 in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $2.82 per share in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. Net income adjusted for merger related expenses (non-GAAP) was $27.7 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 with adjusted diluted earnings per share of $3.37.
Previous wording
The provision for credit losses expense on loans was $1.3 million in the full year 2023, due to the significant growth of core loans. Core loan growth was offset by improvements in the Federal Open Market Committee ("FOMC") forecast and certain payoffs of watch loans during the full year 2023. The ratio of the allowance for credit losses to total loans (excluding loans held for sale) was 1.11% on December 31, 2023 compared to 1.24% on January 1, 2023. Asset quality continues to remain strong, with annualized net loan charge-offs to average loans of 0.03% and nonperforming loans to total loans (excluding loans held for sale) of 0.14% as of December 31, 2023.
Current wording
The provision for credit losses expense on loans was $1.3 million in the full year 2024, due to the significant growth of core loans. Core loan growth was offset by slight improvements in the Federal Open Market Committee ("FOMC") forecast during the full year 2024. The ratio of the allowance for credit losses to total loans (excluding loans held for sale) was 1.07% on December 31, 2024 compared to 1.11% on December 31, 2023. Asset quality continues to remain strong, with net loan charge-offs to average loans of 0.03% and nonperforming loans to total loans (excluding loans held for sale) of 0.24% as of December 31, 2024. Nonperforming loans have increased since the historic lows in 2023, but still remain at low levels and consist entirely of residential loans with strong collateral positions.
Previous wording
Cash dividends of $7.9 million or $1.05 per common share were declared in 2023 compared to $7.6 million or $1.01 per common share in 2022. The dividend yield for ChoiceOne’s common stock was 3.58% as of the end of 2023, compared to 3.48% as of the end of 2022. The cash dividend payout as a percentage of net income was 37% as of December 31, 2023, compared to 32% as of December 31, 2022.
Current wording
Cash dividends of $9.0 million or $1.09 per common share were declared in 2024 compared to $7.9 million or $1.05 per common share in 2023. The dividend yield for ChoiceOne’s common stock was 3.06% as of the end of 2024, compared to 3.58% as of the end of 2023. The cash dividend payout as a percentage of net income was 33.7% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 37.2% as of December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
Income tax expense was $288,000 higher in 2023 than in 2022. The effective tax rate was 16.8% for the year ended 2023 compared to 14.5% for the same period in 2022. During 2023, nontaxable municipal interest decreased and disallowed interest expense increased compared to the year ended 2022. For further details, refer to Note 12 - Income Taxes of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this report.
Current wording
Income tax expense was $2.1 million higher in 2024 than in 2023. The effective tax rate was 19.2% for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to 16.8% for the same period in 2023. For 2024, income before income tax, disallowed interest expense (TEFRA) and nondeductible merger expenses increased compared to 2023. For further details, refer to Note 12 - Income Taxes of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this report.
Previous wording
Non-accruing loan and PPP loan balances are included in the balances of average loans. Non-accruing loan average balances were $1.6 million, $1.3 million, and $3.3 million for the year ended 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. PPP loan average balances were $0, $8.7 million, $95.9 million for the year ended 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.
Current wording
Non-accruing loan balances are included in the balances of average loans. Non-accruing loan average balances were $2.3 million, $1.6 million, and $1.3 million for the year ended 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Previous wording
Interest on loans included net origination fees, accretion income, and PPP fees. Accretion income was $1.7 million, $2.0 million, and $1.1 million for the full year 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. PPP fees were approximately $0, $1.2 million, and $5.2 million for the full year 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.
Current wording
Interest on loans included net origination fees and accretion income. Accretion income was $1.2 million, $1.7 million, and $2.0 million for the full year 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Previous wording
Interest income for 2023 was reduced by $2.8 million due to amortization expense related to the March 2023 sale of the pay floating swap derivative.
Current wording
Interest income for 2024 and 2023 was reduced by $1.1 million and $2.8 million, respectively, due to amortization expense related to the March 2023 sale of the pay floating swap derivative.
Previous wording
ChoiceOne has experienced substantial core loan growth from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023, leading to an increase in interest income from loans of $15.6 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in the prior year. Average core loans grew $161.2 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in the prior year. In addition, the average rate earned on loans increased 62 basis points for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in the prior year. The increase in interest income from loans and the average rate increase on loans was muted by a decline in PPP fees and an increase in expense related to derivatives in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. PPP fee income in 2023 was $0 compared to $1.2 million in 2022. Interest income on loans for 2023 was reduced by $2.1 million due to amortization expense related to the March 2023 sale of the pay floating swap derivative.
Current wording
ChoiceOne has experienced substantial core loan growth from December 31, 2023 to December 31, 2024, leading to an increase in interest income from loans of $21.2 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year. Average core loans grew $191.2 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year. In addition, the average rate earned on loans increased 75 basis points for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year.
Previous wording
The average balance of total securities decreased $52.0 million in 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The decrease was due to the paydowns, maturities, and redemptions during 2023. The average rate earned on securities increased 58 basis points for the full year
Current wording
The average balance of total securities decreased $61.1 million in 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The decrease was due to the paydowns, maturities, and redemptions during 2024. Interest income on securities remained flat in 2024 compared to 2023 despite the decline in average balance as the average rate earned on securities increased 17 basis points for the full year 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year.
Previous wording
Interest expense increased $25.3 million for the full year 2023, compared to the same period in the prior year. The average rate paid on interest bearing-demand deposits and savings deposits increased 64 basis points in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in the prior year. This was offset by the decline in the average balance of interest bearing-demand deposits and savings deposits, of $131.6 million during 2023. The increase in the average balance of certificates of deposit of $110.9 million during 2023, combined with a 263 basis point increase in the rate paid on certificates of deposits during 2023, compared to the same period in the prior year, led to an increase in interest expense of $9.0 million during 2023.
Current wording
Interest expense increased $13.6 million for the full year 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year. The average rate paid on interest bearing-demand deposits and savings deposits increased 33 basis points in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year. This was compounded by the increase in the average balance of interest bearing-demand deposits and savings deposits, of $7.4 million during 2024. The increase in the average balance of certificates of deposit of $81.7 million during 2024, combined with a 92 basis point increase in the rate paid on certificates of deposits during 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year, led to an increase in interest expense of $6.4 million during 2024.
Previous wording
In order to bolster liquidity, ChoiceOne borrowed $170.0 million from the Bank Term Funding Program ("BTFP") during the second and fourth quarter of 2023 and currently holds $23.4 million in brokered deposits and $30.0 million in FHLB advances on December 31, 2023. The net effect of these additional borrowed funds and brokered deposits was an increase in interest expense of $8.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022.
Current wording
ChoiceOne held $170.0 million in borrowings from the Bank Term Funding Program ("BTFP") during the first three quarters of 2024 and during the fourth quarter of 2024, ChoiceOne paid down its advance from the Bank Term Funding Program and replaced it with $135.0 million of FHLB borrowings. This increased the total borrowed balance at the FHLB to $175.0 million at a weighted average fixed rate of 4.5%. The net effect of these additional borrowed funds was an increase in interest expense of $3.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023.
Previous wording
Loans individually evaluated for credit losses decreased by $767,000 to $2.1 million during the full year ended December 31, 2023, and the ACL related to these individually evaluated loans decreased by $93,000 during the same period largely due to the balance change and relationships that paid off in full during the fourth quarter of 2023.
Current wording
Loans individually evaluated for credit losses increased by $2.0 million to $4.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2024, and the ACL related to these individually evaluated loans increased by $108,000 during the same period largely due to the balance increase.
Previous wording
Nonperforming loans, which includes Other Real Estate Owned ("OREO") but excludes performing troubled loan modifications ("TLM") and troubled debt restructuring ("TDR") loans, remained historically low during 2023 and were $1.9 million as of December 31, 2023, compared to $1.3 million as of December 31, 2022. The ACL was 1.11% of total loans, excluding loans held for sale, at December 31, 2023, compared to 1.24% as of January 1, 2023 (the CECL adoption date) and 0.64% at December 31, 2022. The liability for expected credit losses on unfunded loans and other commitments was $2.2 million on December 31, 2023, compared to $3.3 million as of January 1, 2023 (the CECL adoption date).
Current wording
Nonperforming loans, which includes Other Real Estate Owned ("OREO") but excludes performing troubled loan modifications ("TLM"), increased by $1.9 million to $3.8 million at December 31, 2024, compared to a historically low balance on December 31, 2023. All non-performing loans are retail in nature. The ACL was 1.07% of total loans, excluding loans held for sale, at December 31, 2024, compared to 1.11% as of December 31, 2023. The liability for expected credit losses on unfunded loans and other commitments was $1.5 million on December 31, 2024, compared to $2.2 million as of December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
Net charge-offs were $364,000 during the full year 2023, compared to net charge-offs of $319,000 during the same period in 2022. Net charge-offs for checking accounts during the full year 2023 were $226,000 compared to $246,000 for the same period in the prior year. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans were 0.03% during the full year 2023 and 2022.
Current wording
Net charge-offs were $433,000 during the full year 2024, compared to net charge-offs of $364,000 during the same period in 2023. Net charge-offs for checking accounts during the full year 2024 were $237,000 compared to $226,000 for the same period in the prior year. Net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans were 0.03% during the full year 2024 and 2023.
Previous wording
The loan provision expense was offset by the decrease in unfunded commitments provision expense of $1.1 million in the full year 2023 due to changes in mix and expected funding rates during the year. Total unfunded commitments decreased $17.6 million in the full year 2023 compared to January 1, 2023.
Current wording
The provision for credit losses on loans was $1.3 million during the full year 2024 and 2023, due to core loan growth, which was partially offset by slight improvements in the Federal Open Market Committee ("FOMC") forecast during the full year 2024. The loan provision expense was offset by the decrease in unfunded commitments provision expense of $675,000 in the full year 2024 due to changes in mix and expected funding rates during the year. Total unfunded commitments decreased $15.9 million in the full year 2024 compared to December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
Net provision for credit losses was $150,000 for the full year 2023.
Current wording
Net provision for credit losses was $625,000 for the full year 2024.
Previous wording
Total assets grew $190.8 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. Core loans grew $201.5 million or 16.9% and were offset by a decline in investment securities of $33.2 million. Deposits, excluding brokered deposits, declined by $17.7 million during 2023, while borrowings increased by $150.0 million to fund loan demand and ensure ample liquidity. Deposit costs rose steadily during the year with larger increases coming in the second and third quarters as competition and rate increases amplified.
Current wording
Total assets grew $146.5 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024. Core loans grew $114.5 million or 8.2% and were offset by a decline in investment securities of $48.9 million. Deposits, excluding brokered deposits, increased by $79.0 million during 2024, while borrowings declined by $25.0 million. Deposit costs rose steadily in the first half of the year followed by a decline in the second half of the year which coincided with the decreases to the federal funds rate starting in September of 2024.
Previous wording
Total investment securities declined $34.2 million from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023. ChoiceOne purchased $7.1 million of securities in 2023. This was offset by the liquidation of $4.8 million in securities during 2023, resulting in a $71,000 realized loss. Securities totaling $11.5 million were called or matured in 2023. ChoiceOne received principal payments for municipal and mortgage-backed securities totaling $37.4 million during 2023.
Current wording
Total investment securities declined $48.9 million from December 31, 2023 to December 31, 2024. ChoiceOne purchased $16.8 million of securities in 2024. Securities totaling $11.8 million were called or matured in 2024. ChoiceOne received principal payments for municipal and mortgage-backed securities totaling $48.0 million during 2024.
Previous wording
At December 31, 2023, the Company had $128.9 million in unrealized losses on its investment securities, including $69.7 million in unrealized losses on available for sale securities and $59.2 million in unrealized losses on held to maturity securities. Unrealized losses on corporate and municipal bonds have not been recognized into income because management believes the issuers are of high credit quality, and management does not intend to sell prior to their anticipated recovery, and the decline in fair value is largely due to changes in interest rates and other market conditions. The issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments on the bonds. The fair value is expected to recover as the bonds approach maturity.
Current wording
At December 31, 2024, the Company had $116.6 million in unrealized losses on its investment securities, including $61.1 million in unrealized losses on available for sale securities and $55.5 million in unrealized losses on held to maturity securities. Unrealized losses on corporate and municipal bonds have not been recognized into income because management believes the issuers are of high credit quality, and management does not intend to sell prior to their anticipated recovery, and the decline in fair value is largely due to changes in interest rates and other market conditions. The issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments on the bonds. The fair value is expected to recover as the bonds approach maturity.
Previous wording
Equity securities included a money market preferred security ("MMP") of $1.0 million and common stock of $6.5 million as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2022, equity securities included a MMP of $1.0 million and common stock of $7.6 million. The decline compared to December 31, 2022 was due to the sale of an equity position during the third quarter.
Current wording
Equity securities included a money market preferred security ("MMP") of $1.0 million and common stock of $6.8 million as of December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2023, equity securities included a MMP of $1.0 million and common stock of $6.5 million.
Previous wording
Loans to other financial institutions increased $19.4 million from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023. Loans to other financial institutions is comprised of a warehouse line of credit to facilitate mortgage loan originations, and interest rates fluctuate with the national mortgage market. This balance is short term in nature with an average life of under 30 days. Management believes the short-term structure and low credit risk of this asset is advantageous in the current rate environment. ChoiceOne had elected to suspend this program in 2022 and restarted the program in June of 2023. Since restarting the program, ChoiceOne has earned an interest rate of approximately 7.9% on loans to other financial institutions.
Current wording
Average loan balances increased $191.2 million in the full year 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Core loans grew organically by $114.5 million or 8.2% during 2024, with growth concentrated in Non-Owner Occupied CRE loans, which grew by $88.8 million, Owner Occupied CRE loans, which grew by $44.5 million, and 1-4 Family Loans, which grew by $33.1 million. The growth in 1-4 Family loans was largely related to growth in loans to other financial institutions which were $39.9 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to $19.4 million as of December 31, 2023. Loans to other financial institutions is comprised of a warehouse line of credit to facilitate mortgage loan originations and the interest rate fluctuates with the national mortgage market. This balance is short term in nature with an average life of under 30 days. Management believes the short-term structure and low credit risk of this asset is advantageous in the current rate environment; however, this balance is volatile and could change based on the third party origination volume or discretion. Loan interest including fee income increased $21.2 million in the full year 2024, compared to the same period in the prior year.
Previous wording
ChoiceOne recorded accretion income related to acquired loans in the amount of $1.7 million in 2023 and $2.0 million during 2022. Remaining credit and yield mark on acquired loans from the mergers with County Bank Corp. and Community Shores will accrete into income as the acquired loans mature. ChoiceOne estimates that roughly $2.5 million will accrete into income over the next two to four years.
Current wording
ChoiceOne recorded accretion income related to acquired loans in the amount of $1.2 million in 2024 and $1.7 million during 2023. Remaining credit and yield mark on acquired loans from the mergers with County Bank Corp. and Community Shores will accrete into income as the acquired loans mature. ChoiceOne estimates that roughly $1.3 million will accrete into income over the next one to three years.
Previous wording
As part of its review of the loan portfolio, management also monitors the various nonperforming loans. Nonperforming loans are comprised of loans accounted for on a nonaccrual basis, loans not included in nonaccrual loans, which are contractually past due 90 days or more as to interest or principal payments, and troubled loan modifications which are accruing and initiated in the past year. It is noted that prior to January 1, 2023, loans classified as troubled debt restructurings that were not performing as of December 31, 2022 are included in the table below.
Current wording
As part of its review of the loan portfolio, management also monitors the various nonperforming loans. Nonperforming loans are comprised of loans accounted for on a nonaccrual basis, loans not included in nonaccrual loans, which are contractually past due 90 days or more as to interest or principal payments, and troubled loan modifications which are accruing and initiated in the past year.
Previous wording
Nonaccrual loans included $1.7 million in residential real estate loans as of December 31, 2023, compared to $1.3 million in residential real estate loans as of December 31, 2022. Loans considered troubled loan modifications which were not on a nonaccrual basis and were not 90 days or more past due as to principal or interest payments consisted of $60,000 in commercial and industrial loans and $129,000 in residential real estate loans at December 31, 2023, compared to troubled debt restructured loans which were not performing were $3,000 in agricultural loans, $58,000 in commercial and industrial loans, $131,000 in commercial real estate loans and $1.2 million in residential real estate loans at December 31, 2022.
Current wording
Nonaccrual loans included $3.5 million in residential real estate loans, $229,000 in construction real estate loans, and $8,000 in consumer loans as of December 31, 2024, compared to $1.7 million in residential real estate loans as of December 31, 2023. There were no troubled loan modifications ("TLM") at December 31, 2024, compared to $60,000 of commercial and industrial TLM loans and $129,000 of residential real estate TLM loans at December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
Management also maintains a list of loans that are not classified as nonperforming loans but where some concern exists as to the borrowers’ abilities to comply with the original loan terms. There were 22 loans totaling $357,000 fitting this description as of December 31, 2023, and 10 loans totaling $180,000 fitting this description as of December 31, 2022.
Current wording
Management also maintains a list of loans that are not classified as nonperforming loans but where some concern exists as to the borrowers’ abilities to comply with the original loan terms. There were 19 loans totaling $375,000 fitting this description as of December 31, 2024, and 22 loans totaling $357,000 fitting this description as of December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
Deposits, excluding brokered deposits, decreased $17.7 million or 0.8% as of December 31, 2023 compared to December 31, 2022. The decrease in deposits since December 31, 2022 was largely concentrated in the first quarter of 2023 as a result of a combination of customers using cash on hand for debt payoffs, seasonal tax and municipal bond payments, and customers seeking higher rates in money market securities or other investments. Deposits grew in the third and fourth quarters of 2023 due to new business, recapture of deposit losses, and some seasonality in municipal balances. ChoiceOne continues to be proactive in managing its liquidity position by using brokered deposits, the Bank Term Funding Program ("BTFP"), and FHLB advances to ensure ample liquidity. At December 31, 2023, total available borrowing capacity from all sources was $933.3 million.
Current wording
Deposits, excluding brokered deposits increased $79.0 million or 3.8% during 2024. The increase in deposits in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 is a combination of new business and recapture of deposit losses from the prior year. ChoiceOne continues to be proactive in managing its liquidity position by using brokered deposits and FHLB advances to ensure ample liquidity.
Previous wording
In September 2021, ChoiceOne completed a private placement of $32.5 million in aggregate principal amount of 3.25% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due 2031. ChoiceOne used a portion of net proceeds from the private placement to redeem senior debt, fund common stock repurchases, and support bank-level capital ratios. ChoiceOne also holds $3.2 million in subordinated debentures issued in connection with a $4.5 million trust preferred securities offering, which were obtained in the merger with Community Shores, offset by the mark-to-market adjustment.
Current wording
In September 2021, ChoiceOne completed a private placement of $32.5 million in aggregate principal amount of 3.25% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due 2031. ChoiceOne used a portion of net proceeds from the private placement to redeem senior debt, fund common stock repurchases, and support bank-level capital ratios. ChoiceOne also holds $3.5 million in subordinated debentures issued in connection with a $4.5 million trust preferred securities offering, which were obtained in the merger with Community Shores, offset by the mark-to-market adjustment.
Previous wording
Shareholders’ equity totaled $195.6 million as of December 31, 2023, up from $168.9 million as of December 31, 2022. This increase is due to retained earnings increasing $5.3 million due to earnings and a reduction in accumulated other compressive loss (AOCI) of $20.2 million. The improvement in AOCI, despite the rise in interest rates, is due to both the shortening duration and maturing (paydowns) of the securities portfolio, as well as an offsetting increase in unrealized gain of the pay-fixed swap derivatives. ChoiceOne Bank remains “well-capitalized” with a total risk-based capital ratio of 12.4% as of December 31, 2023, compared to 13.0% on December 31, 2022.
Current wording
Shareholders’ equity totaled $260.4 million as of December 31, 2024, up from $195.6 million as of December 31, 2023, due in large part to the $34.5 million in aggregate gross proceeds (before deducting discounts and estimated offering expenses) received from the sale of 1,380,000 shares of common at a price to the public of $25.00 per share on July 26, 2024. The additional increase is due to retained earnings and an improvement in accumulated other compressive loss (AOCI) of $13.8 million compared to December 31, 2023. The improvement in AOCI is due to both the shortening duration and maturing (paydowns) of the securities portfolio, offset by the change in unrealized gain of the pay-fixed swap derivatives. The pay-fixed swap derivatives are designed to offset swings in AOCI due to changes in interest rates. ChoiceOne Bank remains “well-capitalized” with a total risk-based capital ratio of 12.7% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 12.4% on December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
ChoiceOne uses interest rate swaps to manage interest rate exposure to certain fixed assets and variable rate liabilities. On December 31, 2023, ChoiceOne had pay-fixed interest rate swaps with a total notional value of $401.0 million, a weighted average coupon of 3.07%, a fair value of $8.9 million and an average contract length of 8 to 9 years. These derivative instruments increase in value as long-term interest rates rise, which partially offsets the reduction in equity due to unrealized losses on securities available for sale. Included in the total is $200.0 million of forward starting pay-fixed, receive floating interest rate swaps used to hedge interest bearing liabilities. These forward starting swaps will pay a fixed coupon of 2.75% while receiving SOFR starting in late April 2024. At the current SOFR rate of 5.38%, these forward starting swaps would contribute approximately $438,000 monthly starting in May 2024 which will partially offset interest expense. In addition, in March 2023, ChoiceOne eliminated all receive-fixed, pay floating swap agreements for a cash payment of $4.2 million. The loss is being amortized in interest income with an expense of approximately $273,000 monthly through April 2024, which was the remaining period of the agreements.
Current wording
ChoiceOne uses interest rate swaps to manage interest rate exposure to certain fixed rate assets and variable rate liabilities. On December 31, 2024, ChoiceOne had pay-fixed interest rate swaps with a total notional value of $401.0 million, a weighted average coupon of 3.07%, a fair value of $23.6 million and an average remaining contract length of 7 to 8 years. These derivative instruments increase in value as long-term interest rates rise, which offsets the reduction in equity due to unrealized losses on securities available for sale.
Previous wording
Cumulative preferred securities on the balance sheet include $1.1 million of discount due to a mark to market adjustment which is not reflected in the table above.
Current wording
Cumulative preferred securities on the balance sheet include $1.0 million of discount due to a mark to market adjustment which is not reflected in the table above.
Previous wording
ChoiceOne subordinated debenture on the balance sheet includes $385,000 of capitalized issuance cost which is not reflected in the table above.
Current wording
ChoiceOne subordinated debenture on the balance sheet includes $240,000 of capitalized issuance cost which is not reflected in the table above.
Previous wording
Net cash provided by operating activities was $46.5 million in 2023 compared to $45.0 million in 2022. The change was due to lower net proceeds from loan sales and an increase in other assets in 2023 compared to 2022. Net cash used in investing activities was $181.4 million in 2023 compared to $90.5 million in 2022. ChoiceOne had loan originations and payments of $221.2 million in the full year 2023, compared to $130.6 million in the same period in the prior year. Net cash provided by financing activities was $146.4 million in 2023, compared to $57.5 million in 2022. ChoiceOne had net cash from borrowings of $150.0 million in the full year 2023, compared to $0 in the full year 2022.
Current wording
Net cash provided by operating activities was $48.5 million in 2024 compared to $46.5 million in 2023. The change was due to higher net proceeds from loan sales and an increase in other liabilities in 2024 compared to 2023. Net cash used in investing activities was $97.9 million in 2024 compared to $181.4 million in 2023. ChoiceOne had loan originations and payments of $136.1 million in the full year 2024, compared to $221.2 million in the full year 2023. Net cash provided by financing activities was $90.7 million in 2024, compared to $146.4 million in 2023. The change was largely due to $150.0 million of higher borrowings in 2023, offset by $32.1 million in net proceeds received from our common stock offering completed on July 26, 2024.
Previous wording
Liquidity risk deals with ChoiceOne's ability to meet its cash flow requirements. These requirements include depositors desiring to withdraw funds and borrowers seeking credit. Longer-term liquidity needs may be met through core deposit growth, maturities of and cash flows from investment securities, normal loan repayments, advances from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve Bank, brokered certificates of deposit, and income retention. ChoiceOne had $170.0 million in outstanding borrowings from the Federal Reserve’s Bank Term Funding Program (BTFP) as of December 31, 2023 and $30.0 million in outstanding borrowings at the FHLB as of December 31, 2023. ChoiceOne elected to restructure the BTFP balance of $170 million in January 2024 in order to take advantage of lower rates and extend the maturity. The acceptance of brokered certificates of deposit is not limited as long as the Bank is categorized as “well capitalized” under regulatory guidelines. At December 31, 2023, total available borrowing capacity from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve Bank was $933.3 million.
Current wording
Liquidity risk deals with ChoiceOne's ability to meet its cash flow requirements. These requirements include depositors desiring to withdraw funds and borrowers seeking credit. Longer-term liquidity needs may be met through core deposit growth, maturities of and cash flows from investment securities, normal loan repayments, advances from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve Bank, brokered certificates of deposit, and income retention. ChoiceOne had $175.0 million in outstanding borrowings from the FHLB as of December 31, 2024. The acceptance of brokered certificates of deposit is not limited as long as the Bank is categorized as “well capitalized” under regulatory guidelines. At December 31, 2024, total available borrowing capacity from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve Bank was $837.2 million.
Previous wording
This report contains financial measures that are not defined in U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). Management believes this non-GAAP financial measure provides additional information that is useful to investors in helping to understand the underlying financial performance of ChoiceOne.
Current wording
This report contains financial measures that are not defined in U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). Management believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide additional information that is useful to investors in helping to understand the underlying financial performance of ChoiceOne.
Previous wording
Non-GAAP financial measures have inherent limitations. Readers should be aware of these limitations and should be cautious with respect to the use of such measures. To compensate for these limitations, we use non-GAAP measures as comparative tools, together with GAAP measures, to assist in the evaluation of our operating performance or financial condition. Also, we ensure that these measures are calculated using the appropriate GAAP or regulatory components in their entirety and that they are computed in a manner intended to facilitate consistent period-to-period comparisons. ChoiceOne’s method of calculating these non-GAAP financial measures may differ from methods used by other companies. These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for those financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP or in-effect regulatory requirements.
Current wording
Non-GAAP financial measures have inherent limitations. Readers should be aware of these limitations and should be cautious with respect to the use of such measures. To compensate for these limitations, we use non-GAAP financial measures as comparative tools, together with GAAP financial measures, to assist in the evaluation of our operating performance or financial condition. Also, we ensure that these measures are calculated using the appropriate GAAP or regulatory components in their entirety and that they are computed in a manner intended to facilitate consistent period-to-period comparisons. ChoiceOne’s method of calculating these non-GAAP financial measures may differ from methods used by other companies. These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for those financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP or in-effect regulatory requirements.
Previous wording
Securities Available for Sale – For securities AFS in an unrealized loss position, management determines whether they intend to sell or if it is more likely than not that ChoiceOne will be required to sell the security before recovery of the amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the security’s amortized cost basis is written down to fair value through income with an allowance being established under CECL. For securities AFS with unrealized losses not meeting these criteria, management evaluates whether any decline in fair value is due to credit loss factors. In making this assessment, management considers any changes to the rating of the security by rating agencies and adverse conditions specifically related to the issuer of the security, among other factors. If this assessment indicates that a credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security are compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists and an allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) is recorded for the credit loss, limited by the amount that the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Changes in the ACL under ASC 326-30 are recorded as provisions for (or reversal of) credit loss expense. Losses are charged against the allowance when the collectability of a debt security AFS is confirmed or when either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met. Any impairment that has not been recorded through an ACL is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of income taxes. At December 31, 2023 and at adoption of CECL on January 1, 2023, there was no ACL related to debt securities AFS. Accrued interest receivable on debt securities was excluded from the estimate of credit losses.
Current wording
Securities Available for Sale – For securities AFS in an unrealized loss position, management determines whether they intend to sell or if it is more likely than not that ChoiceOne will be required to sell the security before recovery of the amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the security’s amortized cost basis is written down to fair value through income. For securities AFS with unrealized losses not meeting these criteria, management evaluates whether any decline in fair value is due to credit loss factors. In making this assessment, management considers any changes to the rating of the security by rating agencies and adverse conditions specifically related to the issuer of the security, among other factors. If this assessment indicates that a credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security are compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists and an allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) is recorded for the credit loss, limited by the amount that the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Changes in the ACL under ASC 326-30 are recorded as provisions for (or reversal of) credit loss expense. Losses are charged against the allowance when the collectability of a debt security AFS is confirmed or when either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met. Any impairment that has not been recorded through an ACL is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of income taxes. At December 31, 2024, there was no ACL related to debt securities AFS.
Previous wording
Securities Held to Maturity – Since the adoption of CECL, ChoiceOne measures credit losses on HTM securities on a collective basis by major security type with each type sharing similar risk characteristics, and considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The ACL on securities HTM is a contra asset valuation account that is deducted from the carrying amount of HTM securities to present the net amount expected to be collected. HTM securities are charged off against the ACL when deemed uncollectible. Adjustments to the ACL are reported in ChoiceOne’s Consolidated Statements of Income in the provision for credit losses. Accrued interest receivable on HTM securities is excluded from the estimate of credit losses. With regard to US Treasury securities, these have an explicit government guarantee; therefore, no ACL is recorded for these securities. With regard to obligations of states and political subdivisions and other HTM securities, management considers (1) issuer bond ratings, (2) historical loss rates for given bond ratings, (3) the financial condition of the issuer, and (4) whether issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments under the contractual terms of the securities. At December 31, 2023, the ACL related to securities HTM is insignificant.
Current wording
Securities Held to Maturity – Since the adoption of CECL, ChoiceOne measures credit losses on HTM securities on a collective basis by major security type with each type sharing similar risk characteristics, and considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The ACL on securities HTM is a contra asset valuation account that is deducted from the carrying amount of HTM securities to present the net amount expected to be collected. HTM securities are charged off against the ACL when deemed uncollectible. Adjustments to the ACL are reported in ChoiceOne’s Consolidated Statements of Income in the provision for credit losses. Accrued interest receivable totaled $2.0 million and $2.1 million at December 31, 2024, and 2023, respectively, and was reported in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets and is excluded from the estimate of credit losses. With regard to US Treasury securities, these have an explicit government guarantee; therefore, no ACL is recorded for these securities. With regard to obligations of states and political subdivisions and other HTM securities, management considers (1) issuer bond ratings, (2) historical loss rates for given bond ratings, (3) the financial condition of the issuer, and (4) whether issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments under the contractual terms of the securities. At December 31, 2024, the ACL related to securities HTM is insignificant.
Previous wording
Goodwill is not amortized but is evaluated annually for impairment and on an interim basis if events or changes in circumstances indicate that goodwill might be impaired. The goodwill impairment test is performed by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, and an impairment charge would be recognized for any amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. Accounting pronouncements allow a company to first perform a qualitative assessment for goodwill prior to a quantitative assessment (Step 1 assessment). If the results of the qualitative assessment indicate that it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired, then a quantitative assessment must be performed. If not, there is no further assessment required. The Company acquired Valley Ridge Financial Corp. in 2006, County Bank Corp in 2019, and Community Shores in 2020, which resulted in the recognition of goodwill of $13.7 million, $38.9 million and $7.3 million, respectively.
Current wording
Goodwill is not amortized but is evaluated annually for impairment and on an interim basis if events or changes in circumstances indicate that goodwill might be impaired. The goodwill impairment test is performed by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, and an impairment charge would be recognized for any amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. The Company acquired Valley Ridge Financial Corp. in 2006, County Bank Corp in 2019, and Community Shores in 2020, which resulted in the recognition of goodwill of $13.7 million, $38.9 million and $7.3 million, respectively.
Previous wording
During the prior year, ChoiceOne engaged a third party valuation firm to assist in performing a quantitative analysis of goodwill as of November 30, 2022 ("the valuation date"). In deriving the fair value of the reporting unit (the Bank), the third-party firm assessed general economic conditions and outlook; industry and market considerations and outlook; the impact of recent events to financial performance; the market price of ChoiceOne’s common stock and other relevant events. In addition, the valuation relied on financial projections through 2027 and growth rates prepared by management. Based on the valuation prepared, it was determined that ChoiceOne's estimated fair value of the reporting unit at the valuation date was greater than its book value and impairment of goodwill was not required.
Current wording
ChoiceOne engaged a third party valuation firm to assist in performing a quantitative analysis of goodwill as of June 30, 2024 ("the measurement date"). In deriving the fair value of the reporting unit (the Bank), the third-party firm assessed general economic conditions and outlook; industry and market considerations and outlook; the impact of recent events to financial performance; the market price of ChoiceOne’s common stock and other relevant events. In addition, the valuation relied on financial projections through 2029 and growth rates prepared by management. Based on the valuation prepared, it was determined that ChoiceOne's estimated fair value of the reporting unit at the measurement date was greater than its book value and impairment of goodwill was not required. As of the measurement date and December 31, 2024 the stock price was greater than the book value. No material changes and no triggering events have occurred that indicated impairment from the measurement date through December 31, 2024.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (1)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Prior to the adoption of CECL on January 1, 2023, management calculated the allowance for loan losses for the valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses. The allowance for loan losses is increased by the provision for loan losses and decreased by loans charged off less any recoveries of charged off loans. Management estimates the allowance for loan losses balance required based on past loan loss experience, the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values, economic conditions, and other factors. Allocations of the allowance for loan losses may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance for loan losses is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged off. Loan losses are charged against the allowance for loan losses when management believes that collection of a loan balance is not possible.