FIRST NORTHERN COMMUNITY BANCORP

Previous wording

The Company reported net income of $21.6 million for 2023, a 35.7% increase compared to net income of $15.9 million for 2022. Net income per common share for 2023 was $1.42, an increase of 35.2% compared to net income per common share of $1.05 for 2022. Net income per common share on a fully diluted basis was $1.41 for 2023, an increase of 35.6% compared to net income per common share on a fully diluted basis of $1.04 for 2022.

Current wording

The Company reported net income of $20.0 million for 2024, a 7.1% decrease compared to net income of $21.6 million for 2023. Net income per common share for 2024 was $1.26, a decrease of 6.7% compared to net income per common share of $1.35 for 2023. Net income per common share on a fully diluted basis was $1.24 for 2024, a decrease of 7.5% compared to net income per common share on a fully diluted basis of $1.34 for 2023.

Previous wording

Net interest income totaled $66.5 million for 2023, an increase of 21.7% from $54.7 million in 2022, primarily due to loan growth and an increasing interest rate environment. Net interest margin was 3.70% for the year ended 2023 which was a 20.9% or 64 basis point improvement from the 3.06% reported for the year ended 2022.

Current wording

Net interest income totaled $64.4 million for 2024, a decrease of 3.3% from $66.5 million in 2023, primarily due to an increase in interest expense due to an increase in average rate paid on average interest-bearing deposits, which was partially offset by an increase in interest and dividend income due to an increase in yield on average earning assets. Net interest margin was 3.60% for the year ended 2024 which was a 2.6% or 10 basis point decrease from the 3.70% reported for the year ended 2023.

Previous wording

Non-interest income totaled $7.8 million in 2023, an increase of 13.2% from $6.9 million in 2022. The increase was primarily due to a gain on bargain purchase of $1.4 million as a result of the acquisition of the Colusa, Willows, and Orland branches in the first quarter of 2023, which was partially offset by decreases in loan servicing income and non-taxable income from bank owned life insurance policies.

Current wording

Non-interest income totaled $6.0 million in 2024, a decrease of 23.3% from $7.8 million in 2023. The decrease was primarily due to a gain on bargain purchase of $1.4 million as a result of the acquisition of the Colusa, Willows, and Orland branches in 2023, which was not repeated in 2024.

Previous wording

Non-interest expenses totaled $43.6 million for 2023, up 11.7% from $39.1 million in 2022. The increase was primarily due to increases in salaries and employee benefits, occupancy and equipment, data processing and amortization of core deposit intangibles. The increase in salaries and benefits was primarily due to an increase in full-time-equivalent employees. The increases in occupancy and equipment, data processing and amortization of core deposit intangibles was primarily due to the branch acquisitions in the first quarter of 2023.

Current wording

Non-interest expenses totaled $42.8 million for 2024, down 2.0% from $43.6 million in 2023. The decrease was primarily due to decreases in salaries and employee benefits, which was partially offset by increases in occupancy and equipment, data processing and consulting fees. The decrease in salaries and benefits was primarily due to decreases in commissions, contingent compensation and profit sharing expense. The increases in occupancy and equipment and data processing were primarily due to increases in service contracts. The increase in consulting fees was primarily due to staffing searches.

Previous wording

The Company reported total assets of $1.87 billion for each of the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.

Current wording

The Company reported total assets of $1.89 billion and $1.87 billion for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Previous wording

Investments decreased to $572.4 million as of December 31, 2023, a 7.4% decrease from $618.1 million as of December 31, 2022. U.S. Treasury securities totaled $87.2 million as of December 31, 2023, down 23.4% from $113.8 million as of December 31, 2022; securities of U.S. government agencies and corporations totaled $115.1 million, down 3.2% from $118.9 million as of December 31, 2022; obligations of state and political subdivisions totaled $51.7 million, down 3.1% from $53.3 million as of December 31, 2022; collateralized mortgage obligations totaled $90.9 million, down 4.6% from $95.4 million as of December 31, 2022; and mortgage-backed securities totaled $227.5 million, down 3.9% from $236.7 million as of December 31, 2022.

Current wording

Investments totaled $633.9 million as of December 31, 2024, a 10.7% increase from $572.4 million as of December 31, 2023. U.S. Treasury securities totaled $105.5 million as of December 31, 2024, up 21.1% from $87.2 million as of December 31, 2023; securities of U.S. government agencies and corporations totaled $95.7 million, down 16.9% from $115.1 million as of December 31, 2023; obligations of state and political subdivisions totaled $67.6 million, up 30.8% from $51.7 million as of December 31, 2023; collateralized mortgage obligations totaled $95.0 million, up 4.4% from $90.9 million as of December 31, 2023; and mortgage-backed securities totaled $270.1 million, up 18.7% from $227.5 million as of December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Loans (including loans held-for-sale), net of allowance, totaled $1.05 billion as of December 31, 2023, an 8.5% increase from $970.1 million as of December 31, 2022. Commercial loans totaled $106.9 million as of December 31, 2023, up 0.1% from $106.8 million as of December 31, 2022; commercial real estate loans were $721.7 million, up 11.9% from $645.2 million as of December 31, 2022; agriculture loans were $105.8 million, down 7.2% from $114.0 million as of December 31, 2022; residential mortgage loans were $107.3 million, up 15.7% from $92.7 million as of December 31, 2022; residential construction loans were $12.3 million, up 21.6% from $10.2 million as of December 31, 2022; and consumer loans totaled $14.9 million, down 2.6% from $15.3 million as of December 31, 2022.

Current wording

Loans (including loans held-for-sale), net of allowance, totaled $1.047 billion as of December 31, 2024, a 0.5% decrease from $1.052 billion as of December 31, 2023. Commercial loans totaled $117.9 million as of December 31, 2024, up 10.3% from $106.9 million as of December 31, 2023; commercial real estate loans were $723.6 million, up 0.3% from $721.7 million as of December 31, 2023; agriculture loans were $92.6 million, down 12.5% from $105.8 million as of December 31, 2023; residential mortgage loans were $105.9 million, down 1.3% from $107.3 million as of December 31, 2023; residential construction loans were $6.9 million, down 44.3% from $12.3 million as of December 31, 2023; and consumer loans totaled $15.7 million, up 5.7% from $14.9 million as of December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Stockholders’ equity increased to $159.2 million as of December 31, 2023, a 27.4% increase from $125.0 million as of December 31, 2022. The increase was primarily due to the decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss on unrealized losses on investment securities coupled with 2023 net income of $21.6 million.

Current wording

Stockholders' equity increased to $176.3 million as of December 31, 2024, a 10.7% increase from $159.2 million as of December 31, 2023. The increase was primarily due to 2024 net income of $20.0 million.

Previous wording

In determining the ACL, accruing loans with similar risk characteristics are generally evaluated collectively. To estimate expected losses the Company generally utilizes historical loss trends and the remaining contractual lives of the loan portfolios to determine estimated credit losses through a reasonable and supportable forecast period. The Company utilized a reasonable and supportable forecast period of approximately four quarters and obtained the forecast data from Moody’s Analytics. Individual loan credit quality indicators, including historical credit losses, have been statistically correlated with various econometrics, including California unemployment rate, and California gross domestic product. Model forecasts may be adjusted for inherent limitations or biases that have been identified through independent validation and back-testing of model performance to actual realized results. The Company also considered the impact of portfolio concentrations, changes in underwriting practices, imprecision in its economic forecasts, and other risk factors that might influence its loss estimation process. Increases in external risk factors due to more pessimistic business and economic conditions could potentially add $3.4 million based on existing loan balances, if not more, to the ACL. While management utilizes its best judgment and information available, the ultimate adequacy of our allowance accounts is dependent upon a variety of factors beyond our control, including the performance of our portfolios, the economy and changes in interest rates.

Current wording

In determining the ACL, accruing loans with similar risk characteristics are generally evaluated collectively. To estimate expected losses the Company generally utilizes historical loss trends and the remaining contractual lives of the loan portfolios to determine estimated credit losses through a reasonable and supportable forecast period. The Company utilized a reasonable and supportable forecast period of approximately four quarters and obtained the forecast data from Moody’s Analytics. Individual loan credit quality indicators, including historical credit losses, have been statistically correlated with various econometrics, including national unemployment rate, and national gross domestic product. Model forecasts may be adjusted for inherent limitations or biases that have been identified through independent validation and back-testing of model performance to actual realized results. The Company also considered the impact of portfolio concentrations, changes in underwriting practices, imprecision in its economic forecasts, and other risk factors that might influence its loss estimation process. Increases in external risk factors due to more pessimistic business and economic conditions could potentially add $5.6 million based on existing loan balances, if not more, to the ACL. While management utilizes its best judgment and information available, the ultimate adequacy of our allowance accounts is dependent upon a variety of factors beyond our control, including the performance of our portfolios, the economy and changes in interest rates.

Previous wording

Goodwill and intangible assets acquired in a business combination and that are determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events and circumstances exist that indicate the necessity for such impairment tests to be performed. The Company has no goodwill arising from business combinations. The Compnay recognized a bargain purchase gain arising from business combinations. The Company recorded the fair values based on the valuations available as of reporting date. In accordance with business combination accounting guidance, the Company continued to evaluate these fair values for one year following the acquisition date. Intangible assets with definite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values. Core deposit intangible assets arising from business combinations are amortized on an accelerated basis reflecting the pattern in which the economic benefits of the intangible asset are consumed or otherwise used up. The estimated life of the core deposit intangible is approximately 10 years.

Current wording

Goodwill and intangible assets acquired in a business combination and that are determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events and circumstances exist that indicate the necessity for such impairment tests to be performed. The Company has no goodwill arising from business combinations. The Company recognized a bargain purchase gain arising from business combinations. The Company recorded the fair values based on the valuations available as of reporting date. In accordance with business combination accounting guidance, the Company continued to evaluate these fair values for one year following the acquisition date. Intangible assets with definite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values. Core deposit intangible assets arising from business combinations are amortized on an accelerated basis reflecting the pattern in which the economic benefits of the intangible asset are consumed or otherwise used up. The estimated life of the core deposit intangible is approximately 10 years.

Previous wording

In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope. This ASU clarifies that certain optional expedients and exceptions in Topic 848 for contract modifications and hedge accounting apply to derivatives that are affected by the discounting transition. The ASU also amends the expedients and exceptions in Topic 848 to capture the incremental consequences of the scope clarification and to tailor the existing guidance to derivative instruments affected by the discounting transition. An entity may elect to apply ASU 2021-01 on contract modifications that change the interest rate used for margining, discounting, or contract price alignment retrospectively as of any date from the beginning of the interim period that includes March 12, 2020, or prospectively to new modifications from any date within the interim period that includes or is subsequent to January 7, 2021, up to the date that financial statements are available to be issued. An entity may elect to apply ASU 2021-01 to eligible hedging relationships existing as of the beginning of the interim period that includes March 12, 2020, and to new eligible hedging relationships entered into after the beginning of the interim period that includes March 12, 2020. In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848. This ASU extends the period of time preparers can utilize the reference rate reform relief guidance in Topic 848. ASU 2022-06 defers the sunset date of Topic 848 from December 31, 2022, to December 31, 2024, after which entities will no longer be permitted to apply the relief in Topic 848. The Company is in the process of evaluating the provisions of this ASU but does not expect it to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Current wording

In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope. This ASU clarifies that certain optional expedients and exceptions in Topic 848 for contract modifications and hedge accounting apply to derivatives that are affected by the discounting transition. The ASU also amends the expedients and exceptions in Topic 848 to capture the incremental consequences of the scope clarification and to tailor the existing guidance to derivative instruments affected by the discounting transition. An entity may elect to apply ASU 2021-01 on contract modifications that change the interest rate used for margining, discounting, or contract price alignment retrospectively as of any date from the beginning of the interim period that includes March 12, 2020, or prospectively to new modifications from any date within the interim period that includes or is subsequent to January 7, 2021, up to the date that financial statements are available to be issued. An entity may elect to apply ASU 2021-01 to eligible hedging relationships existing as of the beginning of the interim period that includes March 12, 2020, and to new eligible hedging relationships entered into after the beginning of the interim period that includes March 12, 2020. In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848. This ASU extends the period of time preparers can utilize the reference rate reform relief guidance in Topic 848. ASU 2022-06 defers the sunset date of Topic 848 from December 31, 2022, to December 31, 2024, after which entities will no longer be permitted to apply the relief in Topic 848. Adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Previous wording

In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. The amendments in this ASU is intended to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect this ASU to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Current wording

In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. This ASU requires that a public entity that has a single reportable segment provide all the disclosures required by the amendments in this ASU and all existing disclosures in Topic 280. The Company has determined that its current business and operations consist of a single business segment and a single reporting unit. The amendments in ASU 2023-07 are intended to improve segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. The Company applied this ASU retrospectively with no material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements; however, new disclosures have been added as applicable for a single reportable operating segment. For additional information, see Note 22 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Form 10-K.

Previous wording

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. Among other things, these amendments require that public business entities on an annual basis (1) disclose specific categories in the rate reconciliation and (2) provide additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold. This ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company is evaluating whether this ASU will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Current wording

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. Among other things, these amendments provide additional transparency into an entity’s income tax disclosures primarily related to the rate reconciliation and income taxes paid information. The standard requires that public business entities disclose, on an annual basis, specific categories in the rate reconciliation and additional information for reconciling items meeting a certain quantitative threshold. The amendments also require that entities disclose on an annual basis: 1) income taxes paid (net of refunds received) disaggregated by federal (national), state, and foreign taxes and 2) the income taxes paid (net of refunds received) disaggregated by individual jurisdictions exceeding 5% of total income taxes paid (net of refunds received). The amendments are effective for public business entities for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company has evaluated this ASU and does not expect the adoption to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Previous wording

As shown in the comparative figures for loan mix during 2023 and 2022, total loans increased primarily as a result of increases in commercial real estate, residential mortgage and residential construction loans, which was partially offset by decreases in agriculture loans.

Current wording

As shown in the comparative figures for loan mix during 2024 and 2023, total loans decreased primarily as a result of decreases in agriculture, residential mortgage and residential construction loans, which was partially offset by increases in commercial, commercial real estate and consumer loans.

Previous wording

Non-accrual loans amounted to $3,998,000 at December 31, 2023, and were comprised of two agriculture loans totaling $2,871,000 three residential mortgage loan totaling $424,000 and four consumer loans totaling $703,000. Non-accrual loans amounted to $8,176,000 at December 31, 2022, and were comprised of three agriculture loans totaling $7,416,000, one residential mortgage loan totaling $123,000 and four consumer loans totaling $637,000.

Current wording

Non-accrual loans amounted to $11,212,000 at December 31, 2024, and were comprised of one commercial loan totaling $139,000, one commercial real estate loan totaling $7,993,000, two agriculture loans totaling $2,236,000, three residential mortgage loans totaling $202,000 and four consumer loans totaling $642,000. Non-accrual loans amounted to $3,998,000 at December 31, 2023, and were comprised of two agriculture loans totaling $2,871,000, three residential mortgage loan totaling $424,000 and four consumer loans totaling $703,000.

Previous wording

If interest on non-accrual loans had been accrued, such interest income would have approximated $364,000 and $812,000 during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Income actually recognized on nonaccrual loans at payoff approximated $1,626,000 and $51,000 for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Current wording

If interest on non-accrual loans had been accrued, such interest income would have approximated $1,529,000 and $364,000 during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Income actually recognized on nonaccrual loans at payoff approximated $450,000 and $1,626,000 for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Previous wording

As the following table illustrates, total non-performing assets, which consists of loans on non-accrual status, loans past due 90-days and still accruing and Other Real Estate Owned (“OREO”) net of guarantees of the State of California and U.S. Government, including its agencies and its government-sponsored agencies, decreased $245,000, or 2.86%, to $8,334,000 from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023. Non-performing assets net of guarantees represented 0.5% of total assets at each of the periods ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. The Bank’s management believes that the $3,998,000 in non-accrual loans were appropriately reflected at their fair value at December 31, 2023. However, no assurance can be given that the existing or any additional collateral will be sufficient to secure full recovery of the obligations owed under these loans.

Current wording

As the following table illustrates, total non-performing assets, which consists of loans on non-accrual status, loans past due 90-days and still accruing and Other Real Estate Owned ("OREO") net of guarantees of the State of California and U.S. Government, including its agencies and its government-sponsored agencies, increased $2,739,000, or 32.9%, to $11,073,000 from December 31, 2023 to December 31, 2024. Non-performing assets net of guarantees represented 0.6% and 0.5% of total assets at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The Bank’s management believes that the $11,212,000 in non-accrual loans were appropriately reflected at their fair value at December 31, 2024. However, no assurance can be given that the existing or any additional collateral will be sufficient to secure full recovery of the obligations owed under these loans.

Previous wording

The Company had two loans totaling $4,336,000 and one loan totaling $403,000 that were 90 days or more past due and still accruing at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The two loans totaling $4,336,000 that were 90 days or more past due and still accruing at December 31, 2023 was comprised of one residential construction loan totaling $3,420,000 and one residential mortgage loan totaling $916,000 that were both well secured and in process of collection.

Current wording

The Company had no loans that were 90 days or more past due and still accruing at December 31, 2024. The Company had two loans totaling $4,336,000 that were 90 days or more past due and still accruing at December 31, 2023. The two loans totaling $4,336,000 that were 90 days or more past due and still accruing at December 31, 2023 were comprised of one residential construction loan totaling $3,420,000 and one residential mortgage loan totaling $916,000 that were both well secured and in process of collection.

Previous wording

Excluding the non-performing loans cited previously, loans totaling $12,327,000 and $6,490,000 were classified as substandard or doubtful loans, representing potential problem loans at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. In Management’s opinion, the potential loss related to these problem loans was sufficiently covered by the Bank’s existing loan loss reserve (Allowance for Credit Losses) at December 31, 2023 and 2022. The ratio of the allowance for credit losses to total loans at December 31, 2023 and 2022 was 1.55% and 1.50%, respectively. Management considered the allowance for credit losses of $16,596,000 to be adequate as a reserve against expected losses as of December 31, 2023.

Current wording

Excluding the non-performing loans, net of guarantees cited previously, loans totaling $11,782,000 and $12,327,000 were classified as substandard or doubtful loans, representing potential problem loans at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. In Management’s opinion, the potential loss related to these problem loans was sufficiently covered by the Bank’s existing loan loss reserve (Allowance for Credit Losses) at December 31, 2024 and 2023. The ratio of the allowance for credit losses to total loans at December 31, 2024 and 2023 was 1.49% and 1.55%, respectively. Management considered the allowance for credit losses of $15,885,000 to be adequate as a reserve against expected losses as of December 31, 2024.

Previous wording

The Bank believes that any breakdown or allocation of the allowance into loan categories lends an appearance of exactness, which does not exist, because the allowance is available for all loans. The allowance breakdown shown above is computed taking actual experience into consideration but should not be interpreted as an indication of the specific amount and allocation of actual charge-offs that may ultimately occur.

Current wording

The Bank believes that any breakdown or allocation of the allowance into loan categories lends an appearance of exactness, which does not exist, because the allowance is available for all loans. The allowance breakdown shown above is computed taking actual experience into consideration but should not be interpreted as an indication of the specific amount and allocation of actual charge-offs that may ultimately occur. For additional information, see Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Form 10-K.

Previous wording

Approximately 37% and 45% of our deposits were uninsured as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Current wording

Approximately 40% and 37% of our deposits were uninsured as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Previous wording

Time Deposits include brokered deposits purchased in 2023 totaling $39,986,000 as of December 31, 2023. The brokered deposits purchased are time deposits $250,000 (dollars in thousands) or less that mature within twelve months.

Current wording

Time Deposits include brokered deposits totaling $9,999,000 and $39,986,000 as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The brokered deposits purchased are time deposits $250,000 (dollars in thousands) or less that mature within twelve months.

Previous wording

Additional short-term borrowings available to the Company consist of a line of credit and advances with the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) secured under terms of a blanket collateral agreement by a pledge of FHLB stock and all loans held by the Company. At December 31, 2023, the Company had a current collateral borrowing capacity with the FHLB of $395,455,000 and, at such date, also had unsecured formal lines of credit totaling $132,000,000 with correspondent banks.

Current wording

Additional short-term borrowings available to the Company consist of a line of credit and advances with the Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") secured under terms of a blanket collateral agreement by a pledge of FHLB stock and all loans held by the Company. At December 31, 2024, the Company had a current collateral borrowing capacity with the FHLB of $403,087,000 and, at such date, also had unsecured formal lines of credit totaling $130,000,000 with correspondent banks.

Previous wording

The Company and the Bank maintain an unfunded non-contributory defined benefit pension plan (“Salary Continuation Plan”) and related split dollar plan for a select group of highly compensated employees. Eligibility to participate in the Salary Continuation Plan is limited to a select group of management or highly compensated employees of the Bank that are designated by the Board. Additionally, the Company and the Bank adopted a supplemental executive retirement plan (“SERP”) in 2006. The SERP is intended to integrate the various forms of retirement payments offered to executives. There are currently two active and two retired participants in the SERP. At December 31, 2023, the accrued benefit liability was $4,979,000, of which $4,879,000 was recorded in interest payable and other liabilities and $100,000 was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2022, the accrued benefit liability was $5,339,000, of which $4,901,000 was recorded in interest payable and other liabilities and $438,000 was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income, net, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Current wording

The Company and the Bank maintain an unfunded non-contributory defined benefit pension plan (“Salary Continuation Plan”) and related split dollar plan for a select group of highly compensated employees. Eligibility to participate in the Salary Continuation Plan is limited to a select group of management or highly compensated employees of the Bank that are designated by the Board. Additionally, the Company and the Bank adopted a supplemental executive retirement plan (“SERP”) in 2006. The SERP is intended to integrate the various forms of retirement payments offered to executives. At December 31, 2024, the benefit obligation was $4,500,000, of which $4,793,000 was recorded in interest payable and other liabilities and $(293,000) was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2023, the benefit obligation was $4,979,000, of which $4,879,000 was recorded in interest payable and other liabilities and $100,000 was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Previous wording

The Company and the Bank maintain an unfunded non-contributory defined benefit pension plan (“Directors’ Retirement Plan”) and related split dollar plan for the directors of the Bank. At December 31, 2023, the accrued benefit liability was $424,000, of which $596,000 was recorded in interest payable and other liabilities and $(172,000) was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2022, the accrued benefit liability was $560,000, of which $636,000 was recorded in interest payable and other liabilities and $(76,000) was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income, net, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Current wording

The Company and the Bank maintain an unfunded non-contributory defined benefit pension plan (“Directors’ Retirement Plan”) and related split dollar plan for the directors of the Bank. At December 31, 2024, the benefit obligation was $397,000, of which $539,000 was recorded in interest payable and other liabilities and $(142,000) was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2023, the benefit obligation was $424,000, of which $596,000 was recorded in interest payable and other liabilities and $(172,000) was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net, in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Previous wording

Net income for the year ended December 31, 2023, was $21.6 million, representing an increase of $5.7 million, or 35.7%, compared to net income of $15.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase in net income was attributable to an increase in net interest income of $11.8 million and an increase in non-interest income of $0.9 million, which was partially offset by an increase in provision for credit losses of $0.2 million, increase in non-interest expenses of $4.6 million and $2.3 million increase in provision for income taxes. The increase in non-interest income was primarily due to the bargain purchase gain of $1.4 million as a result of the acquisition of the Colusa, Willows, and Orland branches located in California in the first quarter of 2023.

Current wording

Net income for the year ended December 31, 2024, was $20.0 million, representing a decrease of $1.6 million, or 7.1%, compared to net income of $21.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in net income was attributable to a decrease in net interest income of $2.2 million and a decrease in non-interest income of $1.8 million, which was partially offset by a decrease in provision for credit losses of $1.4 million and a decrease in non-interest expenses of $0.8 million. The decrease in non-interest income was primarily due to the bargain purchase gain of $1.4 million as a result of the branch acquisitions in 2023 which was not repeated in 2024. The decrease in provision for credit losses was due to decreases in unfunded commitments.

Previous wording

Total assets were $1.87 billion for each of the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. For the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022, there was an $82.3 million increase in net loans (including loans held-for-sale), a $3.8 million increase in premises and equipment and a $4.1 million increase in core deposit intangible, which was partially offset by a $38.2 million decrease in cash and cash equivalents, a $45.7 million decrease in investments securities and a $5.7 million decrease in interest receivable and other assets. Total deposits decreased $34.4 million, or 2.0%, to $1.69 billion as of December 31, 2023, compared to $1.73 billion at December 31, 2022.

Current wording

Total assets were $1.89 billion as of December 31, 2024, representing an increase of $19.9 million, or 1.1%, compared to total assets of $1.87 billion as of December 31, 2023. For the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, there was a $61.5 million increase in investment securities, which was partially offset by a $29.8 million decrease in cash, $3.6 million decrease in certificates of deposit, $5.6 million decrease in net loans (including loans held-for-sale), $0.7 million decrease in premises and equipment, $0.8 million decrease in core deposit intangible and $1.1 million decrease in interest receivable and other assets. Total deposits increased $7.6 million, or 0.5%, to $1.70 billion as of December 31, 2024, compared to $1.69 billion at December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Net interest income is the excess of interest and fees earned on the Bank’s loans, investment securities, federal funds sold and banker’s acceptances over the interest expense paid on deposits and other borrowed funds which are used to fund those assets. Net interest income is primarily affected by the yields and mix of the Bank’s interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities outstanding during the period. The $18,241,000 increase in the Bank’s interest and dividend income in 2023 from 2022 was primarily driven by increased interest rates and loan growth improving the earning asset mix. The $9,887,000 increase inthe Bank’s interest income on loans was primarily driven by an increase of $5,508,000 attributable to increasing interest rates compounded by an increase of $4,379,000 driven by an increase in average loans outstanding. The $5,048,000 increase in the Bank’s interest income on due from banks was primarily driven by an increase of $6,106,000 due to the increase in average interest rates paid on excess reserves at the FRB, partially offset by a decrease of $1,058,000 driven by decreased average due from bank balances outstanding. The $474,000 increase in the Bank’s interest income on certificates of deposit was driven by an increase of $238,000 due to the increase in average certificates of deposit outstanding coupled with an increase of $236,000 due to the increase in average interest rates paid on certificates of deposit. The $2,559,000 increase in the Bank’s interest income on investment securities was driven by an increase of $3,093,000 due to increasing interest rates, which was partially offset by a decrease of $534,000 driven by decreased investment securities balances outstanding. The $6,398,000 increase in the Bank’s interest expense on deposits was primarily driven by a $6,125,000 increase in rates. See “Analysis of Changes in Interest Income and Interest Expense” set forth on page 37 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the effects of interest rates and loan/deposit volume on net interest income.

Current wording

Net interest income is the excess of interest and fees earned on the Bank’s loans, investment securities, federal funds sold and banker’s acceptances over the interest expense paid on deposits and other borrowed funds which are used to fund those assets. Net interest income is primarily affected by the yields and mix of the Bank’s interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities outstanding during the period. The $4,529,000 increase in the Bank's interest and dividend income in 2024 from 2023 was primarily driven by an increase in interest rates and an increase in average balance of loans, which was partially offset by a decrease in average balances of due from banks and certificates of deposit. The $3,186,000 increase inthe Bank’s interest income on loans was primarily driven by an increase of $1,101,000 attributable to an increase in interest rates compounded by an increase of $2,085,000 driven by an increase in average loans outstanding. The $2,117,000 decrease in the Bank’s interest income on due from banks was primarily driven by a decrease of $2,472,000 due to the decreased average due from bank balances outstanding, which was partially offset by an increase of $355,000 attributable to an increase in average interest rates paid on excess reserves at the FRB. The $33,000 decrease in the Bank's interest income on certificates of deposit was driven by a decrease of $124,000 due to the decrease in average certificates of deposit outstanding, which was partially offset by an increase of $91,000 due to the increase in average interest rates paid on certificates of deposit. The $3,247,000 increase in the Bank’s interest income on investment securities was driven by an increase of $3,262,000 due to an increase in interest rates, which was partially offset by a decrease of $15,000 driven by decreased investment securities balances outstanding. The $6,708,000 increase in the Bank's interest expense on deposits was primarily driven by an increase of $4,978,000 due to increases in interest rates coupled with an increase of $1,730,000 due to an increase in average time certificates balances outstanding. See “Analysis of Changes in Interest Income and Interest Expense” set forth on page 40 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the effects of interest rates and loan/deposit volume on net interest income.

Previous wording

The FRB influences the general market rates of interest, including the deposit and loan rates offered by many financial institutions. Our loan portfolio is significantly affected by changes in the prime interest rate. As of December 31, 2022, the prime rate was 7.50%. The prime rate increased numerous times during 2023, increasing to 8.50% as of December 31, 2023.

Current wording

The FRB influences the general market rates of interest, including the deposit and loan rates offered by many financial institutions. Our loan portfolio is significantly affected by changes in the prime interest rate. As of December 31, 2023, the prime rate was 8.50%.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2022, the target range for the federal funds rate was 4.25% to 4.50%. During 2023 the FRB continued to raise interest rates due to the inflationary trends in the economy. As of December 31, 2023, the target range for the federal funds rate was 5.25% to 5.50%. For additional information, see “Beginning in 2021, the U.S. Economy Began to Reflect Relatively Rapid Rates of Increase in the Consumer Price Index and Other Economic Indices; a Prolonged Elevated Rate of Inflation Could Present Risks for the U.S. Banking Industry and Our Business”, in “Risk Factors” (Item 1A) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2023, the target range for the federal funds rate was 5.25% to 5.50%. To support economic growth, the FRB cut interest rates in September, November and December. As of December 31, 2024, the target rate for the federal funds rate was 4.25% to 4.50%. For additional information, see “The Bank is Subject to Interest Rate Risk” and “Beginning in 2021, the U.S. Economy Began to Reflect Relatively Rapid Rates of Increase in the Consumer Price Index and Other Economic Indices; a Prolonged Elevated Rate of Inflation Could Present Risks for the U.S. Banking Industry and Our Business”, in “Risk Factors” (Item 1A) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Previous wording

The nature and impact of future changes in interest rates and monetary policy on the business and earnings of the Company cannot be predicted. For additional information, see “The Effects of Changes or Increases in, or Supervisory Enforcement of, Banking or Other Laws and Regulations or Governmental Fiscal or Monetary Policies Could Adversely Affect Us” and “Beginning in 2021, the U.S. Economy Began to Reflect Relatively Rapid Rates of Increase in the Consumer Price Index and Other Economic Indices; a Prolonged Elevated Rate of Inflation Could Present Risks for the U.S. Banking Industry and Our Business” in “Risk Factors” (Item 1A) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Current wording

The nature and impact of future changes in interest rates and monetary policy on the business and earnings of the Company cannot be predicted. For additional information, see “The Effects of Changes or Increases in, or Supervisory Enforcement of, Banking or Other Laws and Regulations or Governmental Fiscal or Monetary Policies Could Adversely Affect Us”, and “The Bank is Subject to Interest Rate Risk” and “Beginning in 2021, the U.S. Economy Began to Reflect Relatively Rapid Rates of Increase in the Consumer Price Index and Other Economic Indices; a Prolonged Elevated Rate of Inflation Could Present Risks for the U.S. Banking Industry and Our Business” in “Risk Factors" (Item 1A) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Previous wording

Interest income on loans for 2023 was up 23.4% from 2022, increasing from $42,316,000 to $52,203,000. The increase in interest income on loans was primarily due to higher yields earned on newly originated loans and loans repricing at higher rates coupled with a 9.8% increase in average balance of loans, which was partially offset by a decrease in fee recognition from the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”). The Company recognized no PPP loan fees during the year ended December 31, 2023. The Company recognized $2.7 million of PPP loan fees during the year ended December 31, 2022.

Current wording

Interest income on loans for 2024 was up 6.1% from 2023, increasing from $55,389,000 to $52,203,000. The increase in interest income on loans was primarily due to higher yields earned on newly originated loans and loans repricing at higher rates coupled with a 4.0% increase in average balance of loans.

Previous wording

Interest income on interest-bearing due from banks for 2023 was up 142.4% from 2022, increasing from $3,546,000 to $8,594,000. The increase in interest income on interest-bearing due from banks was the result of a 353 basis point increase in yield on interest-bearing due from banks, which was partially offset by a 24.5% decrease in average balances of interest-bearing due from banks. The increase in yield was due to the increase in the effective federal funds rate, as discussed above.

Current wording

Interest income on interest-bearing due from banks for 2024 was down 24.6% from 2023, decreasing from $8,594,000 to $6,477,000. The decrease in interest income on interest-bearing due from banks was the result of a 27.7% decrease in average balances of interest-bearing due from banks, which was partially offset by a 22 basis point increase in yield on interest-bearing due from banks.

Previous wording

Interest income on certificates of deposit for 2023 was up 167.5% from 2022, increasing from $283,000 to $757,000. The increase in interest income on certificates of deposit was primarily due to a 64.1% increase in average balances of certificates of deposit coupled with a 140 basis point increase in yield on certificates of deposit.

Current wording

Interest income on certificates of deposit for 2024 was down 4.4% from 2023, decreasing from $757,000 to $724,000. The decrease in interest income on certificates of deposit was primarily due to a 15.3% decrease in average balances of certificates of deposit, which was partially offset by a 46 basis point increase in yield on certificates of deposit.

Previous wording

Interest income on investment securities for 2023 was up 27.8% from 2022, increasing from $9,205,000 to $11,764,000. The increase in interest income on investment securities was the result of a 52 basis point increase in investment securities yields, which was partially offset by a 5.5% decrease in average investment securities volume. The Bank deployed excess liquidity into the investment portfolio over the course of 2023 at higher reinvestment rates. Investment securities yields were 1.98% and 1.46% for 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Current wording

Interest income on investment securities for 2024 was up 27.6% from 2023, increasing from $11,764,000 to $15,011,000. The increase in interest income on investment securities was the result of a 56 basis point increase in investment securities yields, which was partially offset by a 0.6% decrease in average investment securities volume. The Bank deployed excess liquidity into the investment portfolio over the course of 2024 at higher reinvestment rates. Investment securities yields were 2.54% and 1.98% for 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Previous wording

Interest expense on deposits for 2023 was up 539.5% from 2022, increasing from $1,186,000 to $7,584,000. The increase in interest expense on deposits was the result of a 65 basis point increase in interest rates paid on interest-bearing deposits coupled with a 3.9% increase in average balances of interest-bearing deposits.

Current wording

Interest expense on deposits for 2024 was up 88.5% from 2023, increasing from $7,584,000 to $14,292,000. The increase in interest expense on deposits was the result of a 70 basis point increase in interest rates paid on interest-bearing deposits, which was partially offset by a 1.1% decrease in average balances of interest-bearing deposits.

Previous wording

The Bank’s net interest margin (net interest income divided by average earning assets) was 3.70% in 2023 and 3.06% in 2022. The net interest spread (average yield earned on interest-earning assets less the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities) was 3.34% in 2023 and 2.99% in 2022. The 35 basis point increase in net spread in 2023 over 2022 was due to an overall increase in interest rates on earning assets, which was partially offset by an overall increase in interest rates on interest-bearing deposits.

Current wording

The Bank’s net interest margin (net interest income divided by average earning assets) was 3.60% in 2024 and 3.70% in 2023. The net interest spread (average yield earned on interest-earning assets less the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities) was 2.92% in 2023 and 3.34% in 2023. The 42 basis point decrease in net spread in 2024 over 2023 was due to an overall increase in interest rates on interest-bearing deposits, which was partially offset by an overall increase in interest rates on earning assets.

Previous wording

The provision for credit losses is established by charges to earnings on management’s evaluation of expected losses on the loan portfolio. Based on this evaluation, the Company recorded provision for credit losses of $1,100,000 and $900,000 in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The provision for credit losses in 2023 and 2022 was primarily due to loan growth. The ratio of the Allowance for Credit Losses to total loans at December 31, 2023 was 1.55% compared to 1.50% at December 31, 2022. The ratio of the Allowance for Credit Losses to total non-accrual loans and loans past due 90 days or more, net of guarantees was 199.1% at December 31, 2023, compared to 172.4% at December 31, 2022. The increase was primarily due to the $1.8 million increase in Allowance for Credit Losses.

Current wording

The provision for credit losses is established by charges to earnings on management’s evaluation of expected losses on the loan portfolio. Based on this evaluation, the Company recorded a reversal of provision for credit losses of $250,000 in 2024 and a provision for credit losses of $1,100,000 in 2023. The reversal of provision for credit losses in 2024 was primarily due to a decrease in loans outstanding and a decrease in unfunded commitments. The provision for credit losses in 2023 was primarily due to loan growth. The ratio of the Allowance for Credit Losses to total loans at December 31, 2024 was 1.49% compared to 1.55% at December 31, 2023. The ratio of the Allowance for Credit Losses to total non-accrual loans and loans past due 90 days or more, net of guarantees was 143.5% at December 31, 2024, compared to 199.1% at December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

Non-interest income consisted primarily of service charges on deposit accounts, net losses on sale of available-for-sale securities, net realized gains on sales of loans held-for-sale, debit card income, gain on bargain purchase and other income. Non-interest income increased to $7,845,000 in 2023 from $6,933,000 in 2022, representing an increase of $912,000, or 13.2%. The increase was primarily driven by a bargain purchase gain, which was partially offset by a decrease in other income. The Company recognized a bargain purchase gain totaling $1.4 million as a result of the acquisition of the Colusa, Willows, and Orland branches in the first quarter of 2023. The decrease in other income was primarily due to decreases in loan servicing income and non-taxable income from bank owned life insurance policies.

Current wording

Non-interest income consisted primarily of service charges on deposit accounts, net losses on sale of available-for-sale securities, net realized gains on sales of loans held-for-sale, debit card income, gain on bargain purchase and other income. Non-interest income decreased to $6,019,000 in 2024 from $7,845,000 in 2023, representing a decrease of $1,826,000, or 23.3%. The decrease was primarily driven by a bargain purchase gain in 2023 which was not repeated in 2024. The Company recognized a bargain purchase gain totaling $1.4 million as a result of the acquisition of the Colusa, Willows, and Orland branches in 2023.

Previous wording

Non-interest expenses consisted primarily of salaries and employee benefits, occupancy and equipment expense, data processing expense, amortization of core deposit intangible and other expenses. Non-interest expenses increased to $43,638,000 in 2023 from $39,063,000 in 2022, representing an increase of $4,575,000, or 11.7%.

Current wording

Non-interest expenses consisted primarily of salaries and employee benefits, occupancy and equipment expense, data processing expense, amortization of core deposit intangible and other expenses. Non-interest expenses decreased to $42,789,000 in 2024 from $43,638,000 in 2023, representing a decrease of $849,000, or 2.0%.