BLUE RIDGE BANKSHARES, INC.

Previous wording

An investment in the Company’s common stock involves certain risks, including those described below. In addition to the other information set forth in this report, investors in the Company’s securities should carefully consider the factors discussed below. These factors, either alone or taken together, could materially and adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, capital position, and prospects. One or more of these could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from its historical results or the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements contained in this report, in which case the trading price of the Company’s securities could decline.

Current wording

An investment in the Company’s common stock involves certain risks, including those described below. In addition to the other information set forth in this Form 10-K, investors in the Company’s securities should carefully consider the factors discussed below. These factors, either alone or taken together, could materially and adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, capital position, and prospects. One or more of these could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from its historical results or the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements contained in this report, in which case the trading price of the Company’s securities could decline.

Previous wording

The Company may not be able to successfully manage its long-term growth, which may adversely affect its results of operations and financial condition.

Current wording

The Company may not be able to successfully manage its growth, which may adversely affect its results of operations and financial condition.

Previous wording

A key aspect of the Company’s long-term business strategy is growth. However, in the near term, the Company’s strategic initiatives include repositioning its balance sheet to align with its return to a community-focused bank and positioning itself for measured growth. The Company may not be able to successfully grow in the long-term if it is unable to execute on these initiatives or identify attractive markets, locations, or opportunities to expand in the future, or if the Company is subject to prolonged regulatory restrictions prohibiting growth or expansion of its operations. The Company’s ability to manage its growth successfully also will depend on whether it can maintain capital levels adequate to support its business, maintain operational and control systems, cost controls and asset quality, comply with regulatory requirements, and successfully integrate any businesses the Company pursues into its organization. See “Regulatory capital standards require the Company and the Bank to maintain higher levels of capital, which could adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations” for additional factors that could affect the Company’s long-term growth.

Current wording

A key aspect of the Company’s long-term business strategy is growth. During 2025 and 2024, the Company’s strategic initiatives included repositioning its balance sheet to align with its return to a community-focused bank and positioning itself for measured growth. The Company may not be able to successfully grow in the long-term if it is unable to identify attractive markets, locations, or opportunities to expand in the future. The Company’s ability to manage its growth successfully also will depend on whether it can maintain capital levels adequate to support its business, maintain operational and control systems, cost controls, asset quality, comply with regulatory requirements, and successfully integrate any businesses the Company pursues into its organization.

Previous wording

When the Company enters into new markets or new lines of business, its lack of history and familiarity with those markets, clients, and lines of business may lead to unexpected challenges or difficulties that inhibit its success. The Company’s plans to expand could depress earnings in the short run, even if it efficiently executes a growth strategy leading to long-term financial benefits. Any of the foregoing could adversely affect the Company’s results of operations.

Current wording

Should the Company enter into new markets or new lines of business, its lack of history and familiarity with those markets, clients, and lines of business may lead to unexpected challenges or difficulties that inhibit its success. The Company’s plans to expand could depress earnings in the short run, even if it efficiently executes a growth strategy leading to long-term financial benefits. Any of the foregoing could adversely affect the Company’s results of operations.

Previous wording

The Company has reported a net loss for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, some of which is due to the cost of complying with regulatory directives, including additional personnel. While the Company has implemented, and will continue to implement, cost-saving initiatives and efficiency measures, there is no guarantee that these actions will yield the desired financial results. Additionally, the Company reduced its earning assets in 2024 and intends to begin increasing earning assets in future periods. Factors such as market conditions, competitive pressures, or unforeseen operational challenges could hinder the Company’s ability to achieve sustained and acceptable levels of future profitability. If the Company is unable to improve its financial performance, it could experience continued losses, which could adversely affect its financial position, capital levels, and the value of its common stock.

Current wording

The Company has reported net income for the year ended December 31, 2025, but reported a net loss for the year ended December 31, 2024, some of which is due to the cost of complying with regulatory directives set forth in the Consent Order. While the Company has implemented, and will continue to implement, cost-saving initiatives and efficiency measures, there is no guarantee that these actions will yield the desired financial results. Additionally, the Company reduced its earning assets in 2025 and 2024 and intends to begin increasing earning assets in future periods. Factors such as market conditions, competitive pressures, or unforeseen operational challenges could hinder the Company’s ability to achieve sustained and acceptable levels of future profitability. If the Company is unable to improve its financial performance, it could experience less than acceptable levels of profits, which could adversely affect its financial position, capital levels, and the value of its common stock.

Previous wording

The Company’s success is, and is expected to remain, highly dependent on its management team. The Company’s operations will continue to place significant demands on management, and the loss of any such person’s services may have an adverse effect upon the Company's operations and profitability. If the Company fails to retain or continue to recruit qualified employees, its operations and profitability could be adversely affected.

Current wording

The Company’s success is, and is expected to remain, highly dependent on its management team. The Company’s strategy and operations will continue to place significant demands on management, and the loss of any such person’s services may have an adverse effect upon the Company's strategy, operations, and profitability. If the Company fails to retain or continue to recruit qualified employees, its strategy, operations, and profitability could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

In order to be successful, the Company must identify and retain experienced key management members and sales staff with local expertise and relationships. Competition for qualified personnel is intense and there is a limited number of qualified persons with knowledge of and experience in banking and in the Company’s chosen geographic markets. Even if the Company identifies individuals that it believes could assist it in building its franchise, it may be unable to recruit these individuals away from their current employers. In addition, the process of identifying and recruiting individuals with the combination of skills and attributes required to carry out the Company’s strategy is often lengthy. The Company’s inability to identify, recruit, and retain talented personnel could limit its ability to pursue its strategic goals and materially adversely affect its business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

In order to be successful, the Company must identify and retain experienced key management members and sales staff with local expertise and relationships. Competition for qualified personnel is intense and there is a limited number of qualified persons with knowledge of and experience in banking and in the Company’s chosen geographic markets. Even if the Company identifies individuals that it believes could assist it in building its franchise, it may be unable to recruit these individuals to work for the Company. In addition, the process of identifying and recruiting individuals with the combination of skills and attributes required to carry out the Company’s strategy is often lengthy. The Company’s inability to identify, recruit, and retain talented personnel could limit its ability to pursue its strategic goals and materially adversely affect its business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

Changes in the interest rate environment may reduce the Company’s profits. It is expected that the Company will continue to realize income from the differential or “spread” between the interest earned on loans, securities, and other interest-earning assets, and interest paid on deposits, borrowings, and other interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest spreads are affected by the difference between the maturities and repricing characteristics of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Loan and deposit volumes, yields, and costs are affected by market interest rates on these products, and there is substantial competition for loans and deposits that affect rates on these products. Additionally, short-term rates are driven by actions of the Federal Reserve, and movements in such rates may have a significant effect on the Company's interest rate risk. The Company’s management cannot ensure that it can minimize interest rate risk. If the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings increase at a faster rate than the interest rates received on loans and other investments, the Company’s net interest income, and therefore earnings, could be adversely affected. Earnings could also be adversely affected if the interest rates received on loans and other investments fall more quickly than the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings. Further, shifts in the Company’s mix of interest-earning assets or interest-bearing liabilities could adversely affect yields on assets or costs of funds, respectively. For example, the Company’s costs of funds increased in recent years as the Federal Reserve increased the federal funds rate, which affected rates paid on fintech-related deposits, and as the Company utilized higher levels of time deposits and brokered deposits to help manage liquidity as it exited its fintech deposit operations. Accordingly, changes in levels of market interest rates or management thereof could materially and adversely affect the net interest spread, loan and deposit volumes, and the Company’s overall profitability.

Current wording

Changes in the interest rate environment may reduce the Company’s profits. It is expected that the Company will continue to realize income from the differential or “spread” between the interest earned on loans, securities, and other interest-earning assets, and interest paid on deposits, borrowings, and other interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest spreads are affected by the difference between the maturities and repricing characteristics of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Loan and deposit volumes, yields, and costs are affected by market interest rates on these products, and there is substantial competition for loans and deposits that affect rates on these products. Additionally, short-term rates are driven by actions of the Federal Reserve, and movements in such rates may have a significant effect on the Company's interest rate risk. The Company’s management cannot ensure that it can minimize interest rate risk. If the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings increase at a faster rate than the interest rates received on loans and other investments, the Company’s net interest income, and therefore earnings, could be adversely affected. Earnings could also be adversely affected if the interest rates received on loans and other investments fall more quickly than the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings. Further, shifts in the Company’s mix of interest-earning assets or interest-bearing liabilities could adversely affect yields on assets or costs of funds, respectively. Accordingly, changes in levels of market interest rates or management thereof could materially and adversely affect the net interest spread, loan and deposit volumes, and the Company’s overall profitability.

Previous wording

The Company’s business is directly impacted by economic conditions, legislative and regulatory changes, changes in government monetary and fiscal policies, changes in consumer behavior and business practices, and inflation, all of which are beyond its control. The growth in economic activity and in the demand for goods and services, coupled with labor shortages, supply chain disruptions and other factors, has contributed to rising inflationary pressures, the Federal Reserve’s responsive interest rate hikes during 2022 and 2023, and the risk of recession. A deterioration in economic conditions, whether caused by global, national, or local concerns, especially within the Company’s market area, could result in, among other consequences, an increase in loan delinquencies, problem assets and foreclosures, a decline in demand for the Company’s products and services, a decrease in low cost or non-interest bearing deposits, and/or a deterioration in the value of collateral for loans, especially real estate loans, any of which could result in losses that materially and adversely affect the Company’s business.

Current wording

The Company’s business is directly impacted by economic conditions, legislative and regulatory changes, changes in government monetary and fiscal policies, changes in consumer behavior and business practices, and inflation, all of which are beyond its control. The growth in economic activity and in the demand for goods and services, coupled with labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, tariffs, and other factors, has contributed to rising inflationary pressures, the Federal Reserve’s responsive interest rate hikes during 2022 and 2023, and the risk of recession. A deterioration in economic conditions, whether caused by global, national, or local concerns, especially within the Company’s market area, could result in, among other consequences, an increase in loan delinquencies, problem assets and foreclosures, a decline in demand for the Company’s products and services, a decrease in low cost or non-interest bearing deposits, and/or a deterioration in the value of collateral for loans, especially real estate loans, any of which could result in losses that materially and adversely affect the Company’s business.

Previous wording

The Company is directly and indirectly affected by changes in market conditions. Market risk generally represents the risk that values of assets and liabilities or revenues will be adversely affected by changes in market conditions. As a financial institution, market risk is inherent in the financial instruments associated with the Company’s operations and activities, including loans, deposits, securities, short-term borrowings, long-term debt, and trading account assets and liabilities. A few of the market conditions that may shift from time to time, thereby exposing the Company to market risk, include fluctuations in interest rates, equity and futures prices, and price deterioration or changes in value due to changes in market perception or actual credit quality of issuers. Any changes in these market conditions, in current accounting principles or interpretations of these principles could impact the Company’s assessment of fair value and thus the determination of credit losses associated with the securities in the investment securities portfolio, which could adversely affect the Company’s financial condition, capital ratios, and results of operations.

Current wording

The Company is directly and indirectly affected by changes in market conditions. Market risk generally represents the risk that values of assets and liabilities or revenues will be adversely affected by changes in market conditions. As a financial institution, market risk is inherent in the financial instruments associated with the Company’s operations and activities, including loans, deposits, securities, short-term borrowings, long-term debt, and trading account assets and liabilities. A few of the market conditions that may shift from time to time, thereby exposing the Company to market risk, include fluctuations in interest rates, equity and futures prices, and price deterioration or changes in value due to changes in market perception or actual credit quality of issuers. Any changes in these market conditions could adversely affect the Company’s financial condition, capital ratios, and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Company’s investment securities portfolio, in particular, may be impacted by market conditions beyond its control, including rating agency downgrades of the securities, defaults of the issuers of the securities, lack of market pricing of the securities, inactivity or instability in the credit markets, and changes in market interest rates. For example, the Company carries its available for sale securities portfolio at estimated fair market value. As a result of rising interest rates during 2022 and 2023, the unrealized losses in the Company’s investment securities portfolio increased dramatically and thereby negatively impacted the Company’s accumulated other comprehensive income. These unrealized losses (net of income taxes) were approximately $42.5 million as of December 31, 2024 compared to $45.1 million as of December 31, 2023. Such losses could be realized into earnings should liquidity needs and/or business strategy necessitate the sales of securities in a loss position, which could adversely affect the Company’s financial condition, capital ratios, and results of operations.

Current wording

The Company’s investment securities portfolio, in particular, may be impacted by market conditions beyond its control, including rating agency downgrades of the securities, defaults of the issuers of the securities, lack of market pricing of the securities, inactivity or instability in the credit markets, and changes in market interest rates. For example, the Company carries its available for sale securities portfolio at estimated fair market value. As a result of rising interest rates during 2022 and 2023, the unrealized losses in the Company’s investment securities portfolio increased dramatically and thereby negatively impacted the Company’s accumulated other comprehensive income. While there were declines in market interest rates during 2024 and 2025, reducing unrealized losses, these unrealized losses (net of income taxes) were approximately $31.1 million as of December 31, 2025. Such losses could be realized in earnings should liquidity needs and/or business strategy necessitate the sales of securities in a loss position, which could adversely affect the Company’s financial condition, capital ratios, and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Company is affected by domestic monetary policy. The Federal Reserve regulates the supply of money and credit in the United States, and its policies determine in large part the Company’s cost of funds for lending, investing, and capital raising activities and the return it earns on those loans and investments, both of which affect the Company’s net interest margin. The actions of the Federal Reserve also can materially affect the value of financial instruments that the Company holds, such as loans and debt securities, and also can affect the Company’s borrowers, potentially increasing the risk that they may fail to repay their loans. The Federal Reserve increased the target federal funds rate by 100 basis points during 2023 to a range of 525 to 550 basis points as of December 31, 2023, and then decreased by 100 basis points during 2024 to a range of 425 to 450 basis points at December 31, 2024. The Company’s business and earnings also are affected by the fiscal or other policies that are adopted by various regulatory authorities of the United States. Changes in fiscal or monetary policy are beyond the Company’s control and hard to predict.

Current wording

The Company is affected by domestic monetary policy. The Federal Reserve regulates the supply of money and credit in the United States, and its policies determine in large part the Company’s cost of funds for lending, investing, and capital raising activities and the return it earns on those loans and investments, both of which affect the Company’s net interest margin. The actions of the Federal Reserve also can materially affect the value of financial instruments that the Company holds, such as loans and debt securities, and also can affect the Company’s borrowers, potentially increasing the risk that they may fail to repay their loans. The Company’s business and earnings also are affected by the fiscal or other policies that are adopted by various regulatory authorities of the United States. Changes in fiscal or monetary policy are beyond the Company’s control and hard to predict.

Previous wording

The Company encounters substantial competition from other financial institutions in its market area and competition is increasing. Ultimately, the Company may not be able to compete successfully against current and future competitors. Many competitors offer the same banking services that the Company offers in its service area. These competitors include national, regional, and community banks. The Company also faces competition from many other types of financial institutions, including finance companies, mutual and money market fund providers, brokerage firms, insurance companies, credit unions, financial subsidiaries of certain industrial corporations, financial technology companies, and mortgage companies. Increased competition may result in reduced business for the Company.

Current wording

The Company encounters substantial competition from financial institutions in its market area and other providers of financial products and services, and competition is increasing. Ultimately, the Company may not be able to compete successfully against current and future competitors. Many competitors offer the same banking services that the Company offers in its service area. These competitors include national, regional, and community banks. The Company also faces competition from many other types of financial institutions, including finance companies, mutual and money market fund providers, brokerage firms, insurance companies, credit unions, financial subsidiaries of certain industrial corporations, financial technology companies, and mortgage companies. Technology and other changes have lowered barriers to entry and made it possible for non-banks to offer products and services traditionally provided by banks. Further, the widespread adoption and rapid evolution of emerging technologies in the financial services industry, including artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies (including stablecoins and memecoins), tokens, and other digital assets could negatively impact the Company's ability to compete. Increased competition may result in reduced business for the Company.

Previous wording

Additionally, banks and other financial institutions with larger capitalization and financial intermediaries not subject to bank regulatory restrictions have larger lending limits and are thereby able to serve the credit needs of larger customers. Areas of competition include interest rates for loans and deposits, efforts to obtain loans and deposits, and range and quality of products and services provided, including new technology-driven products and services. If the Company is unable to attract and retain banking customers, it may be unable to continue to grow loan and deposit portfolios and its results of operations and financial condition may otherwise be adversely affected.

Current wording

A number of the Company’s competitors are larger than the Company, have greater access to capital and other resources, have larger lending limits, and are able to serve the credit needs of larger customers. Additionally, many of the Company’s non-bank competitors are not subject to the same extensive regulations that govern the Company’s activities. Areas of competition include interest rates for loans and deposits, efforts to obtain loans and deposits, and range and quality of products and services provided, including new technology-driven products and services. If the Company is unable to attract and retain banking customers, it may be unable to continue to grow loan and deposit portfolios and its results of operations and financial condition may otherwise be adversely affected.

Previous wording

Technology and other changes are allowing parties to complete financial transactions through alternative methods that historically have involved banks. For example, consumers can now maintain funds that would have historically been held as bank deposits in brokerage accounts, mutual funds, insurance and pension funds, or general-purpose reloadable prepaid cards. Consumers can also complete transactions such as paying bills or transferring funds directly without the assistance of banks. The process of eliminating banks as intermediaries, known as “disintermediation,” could result in the loss of fee income, as well as the loss of customer deposits and the related income generated from those deposits. The loss of these revenue streams and the lower cost of deposits as a source of funds could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

The process of eliminating banks as intermediaries, known as “disintermediation,” could result in the loss of fee income, as well as the loss of customer deposits and the related income generated from those deposits. The loss of these revenue streams and the lower cost of deposits as a source of funds could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Company’s common stock is listed on the NYSE American market under the symbol “BRBS”. There is no guarantee that the Company will be able to maintain the listing of its common stock on the NYSE American in the future. Currently, the Company’s common stock is thinly traded and has substantially less liquidity than the trading markets for many other bank holding companies. In addition, there can be no assurance that a more active trading market for shares of the Company’s common stock will develop or if one develops, that it can be sustained. The development of a liquid public market depends on the existence of willing buyers and sellers, the presence of which is not within the Company’s control. Therefore, the Company’s shareholders may not be able to sell their shares at the volume, prices, or times that they desire. Shareholders should be financially prepared and able to hold shares for an indefinite period.

Current wording

Currently, the Company’s common stock is thinly traded and has substantially less liquidity than the trading markets for many other bank holding companies. In addition, there can be no assurance that a more active trading market for shares of the Company’s common stock will develop or if one develops, that it can be sustained. The development of a liquid public market depends on the existence of willing buyers and sellers, the presence of which is not within the Company’s control. Therefore, the Company’s shareholders may not be able to sell their shares at the volume, prices, or times that they desire. Shareholders should be financially prepared and able to hold shares for an indefinite period.

Previous wording

In addition, thinly-traded stocks can be more volatile than more widely traded stocks. Several factors could cause the price of the Company's stock to fluctuate substantially. These factors include, but are not limited to, developments related to the Company’s business and operations, stock performance of other companies deemed to be peers, news reports of trends, concerns, and irrational exuberance on the part of investors, geopolitical uncertainty, and other issues related to the financial services industry, in general. The Company’s stock price may fluctuate significantly in the future, and these fluctuations may be unrelated to its performance and are not within the control of the Company. General market declines or market volatility in the future, especially in the financial institutions sector of the economy, could adversely affect the price of the Company’s common stock, and the current market price may not be indicative of future market prices.

Current wording

In addition, thinly-traded stocks can be more volatile than more widely-traded stocks. Several factors could cause the price of the Company's stock to fluctuate substantially. These factors include, but are not limited to, developments related to the Company’s business and operations, stock performance of other companies deemed to be peers, news reports of trends, concerns, and irrational exuberance on the part of investors, geopolitical uncertainty, and other issues related to the financial services industry, in general. The Company’s stock price may fluctuate significantly in the future, and these fluctuations may be unrelated to its performance and are not within the control of the Company. General market declines or market volatility in the future, especially in the financial institutions sector of the economy, could adversely affect the price of the Company’s common stock. Additionally, the current market price may not be indicative of future market prices.

Previous wording

The Company assumes credit risk by virtue of making loans and extending loan commitments and letters of credit. The Company manages credit risk through a program of underwriting standards, the review of certain credit decisions, and a continuous quality assessment process of credit already extended. The Company’s exposure to credit risk is managed through the use of consistent underwriting standards that emphasize local lending while avoiding highly leveraged transactions, as well as excessive industry and other concentrations. The Company’s credit administration function employs risk management techniques to help ensure that problem loans are promptly identified. While these procedures are designed to provide the Company with the information needed to implement policy adjustments where necessary and to take appropriate corrective actions, there can be no assurance that such measures will be effective in avoiding undue credit risk.

Current wording

The Company assumes credit risk by virtue of making loans and extending loan commitments and letters of credit. The Company manages credit risk through a program of underwriting standards, the review of certain credit decisions, and a continuous quality assessment process of credit already extended. The Company’s exposure to credit risk is managed through the use of consistent underwriting standards that emphasize local lending, while avoiding highly-leveraged transactions and excessive industry and other concentrations. The Company’s credit administration function employs risk management techniques to help ensure that problem loans are promptly identified and is periodically subject to independent review. While these procedures are designed to provide the Company with the information needed to implement policy adjustments where necessary and to take appropriate corrective actions, there can be no assurance that such measures will be effective in avoiding undue credit risk.

Previous wording

The Company's ACL may be insufficient and any increases in the ACL may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

The Company's allowance for credit losses ("ACL") may be insufficient and any increases in the ACL may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

The Company’s nonperforming assets adversely affect its net income in various ways. Nonperforming assets, which include nonaccrual loans, loans past due 90 days and still accruing interest, and other real estate owned ("OREO") were $25.7 million, or 0.94% of total assets, and $63.1 million, or 2.02% of total assets, as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. When the Company receives collateral through foreclosures and similar proceedings, it is required to record the related loan to the then fair market value of the collateral less estimated selling costs, which may result in a loss. An increased level of nonperforming assets also increases the Company’s risk profile and may impact the capital levels regulators believe are appropriate in light of such risks. The Company utilizes various techniques such as workouts, restructurings, and loan sales to manage problem assets. Increases in, or negative changes in, the value of these problem assets, the underlying collateral, or in the borrowers’ performance or financial condition, could adversely affect the Company’s business, results of operations, and financial condition. In addition, the resolution of nonperforming assets requires significant commitments of time from management and staff, which can be detrimental to the performance of their other responsibilities, including generation of new loans. There can be no assurance that the Company will avoid increases in nonperforming assets in the future.

Current wording

An increased level of nonperforming assets increases the Company’s risk profile and may impact the capital levels regulators believe are appropriate in light of such risks. The Company utilizes various techniques such as workouts, restructurings, and loan sales to manage problem assets. Increases in, or negative changes in, the value of these problem assets, the underlying collateral, or in the borrowers’ performance or financial condition, could adversely affect the Company’s business, results of operations, and financial condition. In addition, the resolution of nonperforming assets requires significant commitments of time from management and staff, which can be detrimental to the performance of their other responsibilities. There can be no assurance that the Company will avoid increases in nonperforming assets in the future.

Previous wording

The Company offers a variety of secured loans, including commercial lines of credit, commercial term loans, real estate, construction, home equity, consumer and other loans. Credit risk and credit losses can increase if its loans are concentrated to borrowers who, as a group, may be uniquely or disproportionately affected by economic or market conditions. As of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, approximately 80.8% and 76.4%, respectively, of the Company’s loans were secured by real estate, both residential and commercial, substantially all of which are located in its market area. A major change in the region’s real estate market, resulting in a deterioration in real estate values, or in the local or national economy, could adversely affect the Company’s customers’ ability to pay these loans, which in turn could adversely impact the Company. Risk of loan defaults and foreclosures are inherent in the banking industry, and the Company tries to limit its exposure to this risk by carefully underwriting and monitoring its extensions of credit. The Company cannot fully eliminate credit risk, and as a result, losses may occur in the future.

Current wording

The Company offers a variety of secured loans, including commercial lines of credit, commercial term loans, real estate, construction, home equity, consumer, and other loans. Credit risk and credit losses can increase if loans are concentrated to borrowers who, as a group, may be uniquely or disproportionately affected by economic or market conditions. As of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, approximately 83.6% and 80.8%, respectively, of the Company’s loans were secured by real estate, both residential and commercial, substantially all of which are located in its market area. A major change in the region’s real estate market, resulting in a deterioration in real estate values, or in the local or national economy, could adversely affect the Company’s customers’ ability to pay these loans, which in turn could adversely impact the Company. Risk of loan defaults and foreclosures are inherent in the banking industry, and the Company tries to limit its exposure to this risk by carefully underwriting and monitoring its extensions of credit. The Company cannot fully eliminate credit risk, and as a result, losses may occur in the future.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company had approximately $847.8 million and $870.5 million in loans secured by commercial real estate, respectively, representing approximately 40.2% and 35.8% of total loans outstanding as of those same dates, respectively. The real estate consists primarily of non-owner occupied properties and other commercial properties. These types of loans are generally viewed as having more risk of default than residential and owner-occupied real estate loans. They are also typically larger than residential real estate loans and consumer loans and depend on cash flows from the owner’s business or the property to service the debt. It may be more difficult for commercial real estate borrowers to repay their loans in a timely manner, as commercial real estate borrowers' ability to repay their loans frequently depends on the successful rental of their properties. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had approximately $73.9 million of non-owner occupied office loans, representing approximately 8.7% of total loans outstanding at that date. Cash flows to service commercial real estate loans may be negatively affected by general economic conditions, such as a sustained downturn, or in occupancy rates in the local economy where the property is located and could increase the likelihood of default. Further, when fixed rate loans originated in a time of lower interest rates near their maturity dates, a higher interest rate environment could make it more difficult for borrowers to refinance or extend their loans with the Company due to higher debt service costs. Because the Company’s loan portfolio contains a number of commercial real estate loans with relatively large balances, the deterioration of one or a few of these loans could cause a significant increase in nonperforming loans. An increase in nonperforming loans could result in a loss of earnings from these loans, an increase in the provision for credit losses, and an increase in charge-offs, all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the Company had approximately $836.3 million and $847.8 million in loans secured by commercial real estate, respectively, representing approximately 44.9% and 40.2% of total loans outstanding as of those same dates, respectively. The Company's portfolio of loans secured by commercial real estate consists primarily of non-owner occupied properties. These loans are generally considered to present a higher risk of default than residential and owner-occupied commercial real estate loans, typically involve larger loan balances, and are dependent on cash flows generated by the property, and in some cases the borrower or guarantor, to service the debt. It may be more difficult for commercial real estate borrowers to repay their loans in a timely manner, as commercial real estate borrowers' ability to repay their loans frequently depends on the successful rental of their properties. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had approximately $55.7 million of non-owner occupied office loans, representing approximately 6.7% of total commercial real estate loans outstanding at that date. Cash flows to service commercial real estate loans may be negatively affected by general economic conditions, such as unemployment, a sustained downturn, or in occupancy rates in the local economy where the property is located and could increase the likelihood of default. Further, when fixed rate loans originated in a time of lower interest rates near their maturity dates, a higher interest rate environment could make it more difficult for borrowers to refinance or extend their loans with the Company due to higher debt service costs. Because the Company’s loan portfolio contains a number of commercial real estate loans with relatively large balances, the deterioration of one or a few of these loans could cause a significant increase in nonperforming loans. An increase in nonperforming loans could result in a loss of earnings from these loans, an increase in the provision for credit losses, and an increase in charge-offs, all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Shifts in workplace dynamics, including remote work, and a potentially smaller federal government workforce, may weaken office property and housing demand, pressure valuations, and increase credit risk for the Company.

Current wording

Shifts in workplace dynamics, including remote and hybrid work arrangements, and a potentially smaller federal government workforce, may weaken office property and housing demand, pressure valuations, and increase credit risk for the Company.

Previous wording

While increased in-office attendance may help stabilize demand for some commercial real estate properties, persistent remote and hybrid work trends could keep office vacancy rates elevated, particularly in markets with oversupply in the Company's footprint. Additionally, workforce reductions in the federal government due to budget cuts or restructuring could further dampen demand for office space and housing in government-centric areas. These factors may strain property cash flows, depress collateral values, and elevate default risks, particularly for lenders with significant exposure to office properties or government-related tenants. This increased credit risk for the Company could result in future losses.

Current wording

While increased in-office attendance may help stabilize demand for some commercial real estate properties, persistent remote and hybrid work arrangements could keep office vacancy rates elevated, particularly in markets with oversupply in the Company's footprint. Additionally, workforce reductions in the federal government due to budget cuts or restructuring could further dampen demand for office space and housing in government-centric areas. These factors may strain property cash flows, depress collateral values, and elevate default risks, particularly for lenders with significant exposure to office properties or government-related tenants. The Company has very limited exposure to commercial real estate in the greater

Previous wording

At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, approximately 7.8% and 10.5% of the Company’s loan portfolio, or $166.3 million and $255.9 million, respectively, consisted of construction and land development loans. Construction financing typically involves a higher degree of credit risk than financing on improved, owner-occupied real estate and improved, income producing real estate. Risk of loss on a construction or land development loan is largely dependent upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction or development, the marketability of the property, and the bid price and estimated cost (including interest) of construction or development. If the estimate of construction or development costs proves to be inaccurate, the Company may be required to advance funds beyond the amount originally committed to permit completion of the project. If the estimate of the value proves to be inaccurate, it may be confronted, at or prior to the maturity of the loan, with a project whose value is insufficient to assure full repayment. When lending to builders and developers, the cost breakdown of construction or development is provided by the builder or developer. Although the Company’s underwriting criteria are designed to evaluate and minimize the risks of each construction or land development loan, there can be no guarantee that these practices will have safeguarded against material delinquencies and losses to the Company’s operations. In addition, construction and land development loans are dependent on the successful completion of the projects they finance. Loans secured by vacant or unimproved land are generally riskier than loans secured by improved property. These loans are more susceptible to adverse conditions in the real estate market and local economy.

Current wording

At December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, approximately 4.5% and 7.8% of the Company’s loan portfolio, or $83.5 million and $166.3 million, respectively, consisted of construction and land development loans. Construction financing typically involves a higher degree of credit risk than financing on improved owner-occupied real estate and improved income producing real estate. Risk of loss on a construction or land development loan is largely dependent upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction or development, the marketability of the property, and the bid price and estimated cost (including interest) of construction or development. If the estimate of construction or development costs proves to be inaccurate, the Company may be required to advance funds beyond the amount originally committed to permit completion of the project. If the estimate of the value proves to be inaccurate, it may be confronted, at or prior to the maturity of the loan, with a project whose value is insufficient to assure full repayment. When lending to builders and developers, the cost breakdown of construction or development is provided by the builder or developer. Although the Company’s underwriting criteria are designed to evaluate and minimize the risks of each construction or land development loan, there can be no guarantee that these practices will have safeguarded against material delinquencies and losses to the Company’s operations. In addition, construction and land development loans are dependent on the successful completion of the projects they finance. Loans secured by vacant or unimproved land are generally riskier than loans secured by improved property. These loans are more susceptible to adverse conditions in the real estate market and local economy, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

A significant source of risk for the Company is the possibility that losses will be sustained because borrowers, guarantors, and related parties may fail to perform in accordance with the terms of their loan agreements. Most of the Company’s loans are secured, but some loans are unsecured. With respect to the secured loans, the collateral securing the repayment of these loans may be insufficient to cover the obligations owed under such loans. Collateral values may be adversely affected by changes in economic, environmental, declines in the value of real estate, changes in interest rates, changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government, terrorist activity, environmental contamination, and other external events. In addition, collateral appraisals that are out of date or that do not meet industry recognized standards may create the impression that a loan is adequately collateralized when it is not. The Company has adopted underwriting and credit monitoring procedures and policies, including regular reviews of appraisals and borrower financial statements, that management believes are appropriate to mitigate the risk of loss. An increase in nonperforming loans could result in a net loss of earnings from these loans, an increase in the provision for credit losses, and an increase in loan charge-offs, all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

A significant source of risk for the Company is the possibility that losses will be sustained because borrowers, guarantors, and related parties may fail to perform in accordance with the terms of their loan agreements. Most of the Company’s loans are secured, but some loans are unsecured. With respect to the secured loans, the collateral securing the repayment of these loans may be insufficient to cover the obligations owed under such loans. Collateral values may be adversely affected by changes in economic, environmental, declines in the value of real estate, changes in interest rates, changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government, terrorist activity, environmental contamination, and other external events. In addition, collateral appraisals that are out of date or that do not meet industry recognized standards may create the impression that a loan is adequately collateralized when it is not. The Company has adopted underwriting and credit monitoring procedures and policies, including regular reviews of appraisals and borrower financial statements, that management believes are appropriate to mitigate the risk of loss. An increase in nonperforming loans could result in a net loss of earnings from these loans, an increase in the ACL, and an increase in loan charge-offs, all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

In deciding whether to extend credit or to enter into other transactions with clients and counterparties, the Company may rely on information furnished to it by or on behalf of clients and counterparties, including financial statements and other financial information, which it does not independently verify. The Company also may rely on representations of clients and counterparties as to the accuracy and completeness of that information and, with respect to financial statements, on reports of independent auditors. For example, in deciding whether to extend credit to clients, the Company may assume that a client’s audited financial statements conform with GAAP and present fairly, in all material respects, the financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows of that client. The Company’s financial condition and results of operations could be negatively impacted to the extent it relies on financial statements that do not comply with GAAP or are materially misleading or other information that turns out to be misleading or incorrect.

Current wording

In deciding whether to extend credit or to enter into other transactions with clients and counterparties, the Company may rely on information furnished to it by or on behalf of clients and counterparties, including financial statements and other financial information, which it does not independently verify. The Company also may rely on representations of clients and counterparties as to the accuracy and completeness of that information and, with respect to financial statements, on reports of independent auditors. For example, in deciding whether to extend credit to clients, the Company may assume that a client’s audited financial statements conform with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and present fairly, in all material respects, the financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows of that client. The Company’s financial condition and results of operations could be negatively impacted to the extent it relies on financial statements that do not comply with GAAP or are materially misleading or other information that turns out to be misleading or incorrect.

Previous wording

As indicated above, a significant portion of the Company’s loan portfolio consists of loans secured by real estate and it may hold a portfolio of foreclosed properties. The Company relies upon independent appraisers to estimate the value of such real estate. Appraisals are only estimates of value and the independent appraisers may make mistakes of fact or judgment that adversely affect the reliability of their appraisals. In addition, events occurring after the initial appraisal may cause the value of the real estate to increase or decrease. As a result of any of these factors, the real estate securing some of the Company’s loans and the foreclosed properties held by the Company may be more or less valuable than anticipated. If a default occurs on a loan secured by real estate that is less valuable than originally estimated, the Company may not be able to recover the outstanding balance of the loan. It may also be unable to sell its foreclosed properties for the values estimated by their appraisals.

Current wording

As indicated above, a significant portion of the Company’s loan portfolio consists of loans secured by real estate and the Company may also hold a portfolio of foreclosed properties. The Company relies upon independent appraisers to estimate the value of such real estate. Appraisals are only estimates of value and the independent appraisers may make mistakes of fact or judgment that adversely affect the reliability of their appraisals. In addition, events occurring after the initial appraisal may cause the value of the real estate to increase or decrease. As a result of any of these factors, the real estate securing some of the Company’s loans and the foreclosed properties held by the Company may be more or less valuable than anticipated. If a default occurs on a loan secured by real estate that is less valuable than originally estimated, the Company may not be able to recover the outstanding balance of the loan. It may also be unable to sell its foreclosed properties for the values estimated by their appraisals.

Previous wording

The Company is subject to extensive regulation and supervision that govern almost all aspects of its operations. These laws and regulations, and regulatory actions implementing such laws and regulations, including the Consent Order, among other matters, prescribe minimum capital requirements, impose limitations on the Company’s business activities, limit the dividends or distributions that it can pay, and impose certain specific accounting requirements that may be more restrictive and may result in greater or earlier charges to earnings or reductions in its capital than GAAP.

Current wording

The Company is subject to extensive regulation and supervision that govern almost all aspects of its operations. These laws and regulations, and regulatory actions implementing such laws and regulations, among other matters, prescribe minimum capital requirements, impose limitations on the Company’s business activities, limit the dividends or distributions that it can pay, and impose certain specific accounting requirements that may be more restrictive and may result in greater or earlier charges to earnings or reductions in its capital than GAAP.

Previous wording

Changes to laws, regulations, or regulatory policies, or supervisory guidance, including changes in interpretation or implementation of laws, regulations, policies, or supervisory guidance, could affect the Company in substantial and unpredictable ways. Regulatory responses in connection with unforeseen stress events, including failures of banks and other financial institutions, often lead to increased regulatory scrutiny and heightened supervisory expectations and could adversely impact the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations, or alter or disrupt the Company’s planned future strategies and actions. The Company’s failure to comply with these laws and regulations, has in the past and could in the future subject it to restrictions on its business activities, fines, and other penalties, any of which could adversely affect the Company’s results of operations, capital base, and the price of its securities. Compliance with laws and regulations, and regulatory actions implementing such laws and regulations, can be difficult and costly, and changes to laws and regulations could make compliance more difficult or expensive or otherwise adversely affect the Company’s business and financial condition.

Current wording

Changes to laws, regulations, regulatory policies, or supervisory guidance, including changes in interpretation or implementation of laws, regulations, policies, or supervisory guidance, or changes in enforcement priorities could affect the Company in substantial and unpredictable ways. Regulatory responses in connection with unforeseen stress events, including failures of banks and other financial institutions, often lead to increased regulatory scrutiny and heightened supervisory expectations and could adversely impact the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations, or alter or disrupt the Company’s planned future strategies and actions. The Company’s failure to comply with these laws and regulations, has in the past and could in the future subject it to restrictions on its business activities, fines, and other penalties, any of which could adversely affect the Company’s results of operations and increase required capital levels. Activities of other banks could also affect the price of the Company's securities. Compliance with laws and regulations, and regulatory actions implementing such laws and regulations, can be difficult and costly, and changes to laws and regulations could make compliance more difficult or expensive or otherwise adversely affect the Company’s business and financial condition.

Previous wording

The Company expects the Trump administration will seek to implement a regulatory agenda that is different than that of the Biden administration, and that could impact the rulemaking, supervision, examination, and enforcement priorities of the federal banking agencies. At this time, it is unclear what laws, regulations, and policies may change and whether future changes or uncertainty surrounding future changes will adversely affect the Company’s operating environment, and therefore its business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

The Company expects the Trump administration will continue to implement a regulatory agenda that could reduce and streamline certain prudential and regulatory requirements applicable to banking organizations at a federal level. Separately, the Trump administration’s emphasis on stablecoins and digital assets, including taking action to create a federal regulatory system for stablecoins through the signing of the Genius Act, bolsters the efforts of nonbanking financial intermediaries who are not as highly regulated as banks to increasingly and effectively compete for and obtain the business of customers of traditional banking institutions. At this time, however, it is unclear what the impacts to the rulemaking, supervision, examination, and enforcement priorities of the federal banking agencies will be, what laws, regulations, and policies may change and whether future changes or uncertainty surrounding future changes will adversely affect the Company’s operating environment, and therefore its business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

In the ordinary course of business, the Company collects and stores sensitive data, including proprietary business information and personally identifiable information of its customers and employees in systems and on networks. The secure processing, maintenance, and use of this information is critical to operations and the Company’s business strategy. The Company has invested in accepted technologies and continually reviews processes and practices that are designed to protect its networks, computers, and data from damage or unauthorized access. Despite these security measures, the Company’s computer systems and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or breached due to employee error, malfeasance, or other disruptions. A breach of any kind could compromise systems and the information stored there could be accessed, damaged, or disclosed. A breach in security could result in legal claims, regulatory penalties, disruption in operations, and damage to the Company’s reputation, which could adversely affect its business and financial condition. Furthermore, as cyber threats continue to evolve and increase, the Company may be required to expend significant additional financial and operational resources to modify or enhance its protective measures, or to investigate and remediate any identified information security vulnerabilities.

Current wording

In the ordinary course of business, the Company collects and stores sensitive data, including proprietary business information and personally identifiable information of its customers and employees in systems and on networks. The secure processing, maintenance, and use of this information is critical to operations and the Company’s business strategy. The Company has invested in accepted technologies and continually reviews processes and practices that are designed to protect its networks, computers, and data from damage or unauthorized access. Despite these security measures, the Company’s computer systems and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or breached due to employee error, malfeasance, or other disruptions. A breach of any kind could compromise systems and the information stored there could be accessed, damaged, or disclosed. A breach in security could result in legal claims, regulatory penalties, disruption in operations, and damage to the Company’s reputation, which could adversely affect its business and financial condition. Furthermore, as cyber threats continue to evolve and increase, the Company may be required to expend significant additional financial and operational resources to modify or enhance its protective measures, or to investigate and remediate any identified information security vulnerabilities. The continued evolution and increased usage of artificial intelligence technologies may further increase these risks.

Previous wording

In addition, multiple U.S. companies have experienced data systems incursions reportedly resulting in the thefts of credit and debit card information, online account information, and other financial or privileged data. These incursions affect cards issued and deposit accounts maintained by many banks, including the Company. These events can cause the Company to reissue a significant number of cards and take other costly steps to avoid significant theft loss to the Company and its customers. In some cases, the Company may be required to reimburse customers for the losses they incur. Other possible points of intrusion or disruption not within the Company’s control include internet service providers, electronic mail portal providers, social media portals, distant-server (cloud) service providers, electronic data security providers, telecommunications companies, and smart phone manufacturers.

Current wording

In addition, multiple U.S. companies have experienced data systems incursions reportedly resulting in the thefts of credit and debit card information, online account information, and other financial or privileged data. These incursions affect cards issued and deposit accounts maintained by many banks, including the Company. These events can cause the Company to reissue a significant number of cards and take other costly steps to avoid significant theft loss to the Company and its customers. In some cases, the Company may be required to reimburse customers for the losses they incur. Other possible points of intrusion or disruption not within the Company’s control include internet service providers, electronic mail and collaboration platform providers, social media portals, distant-server (cloud) service providers, electronic data security providers, core processing vendors, payment networks, software and hardware manufacturers, data storage providers, telecommunications companies, smart phone manufacturers, utility providers, and other third-party technology vendors and service providers.

Previous wording

Third-party vendors provide key components of the Company’s business operations such as data processing, recording, and monitoring transactions, online banking interfaces and services, internet connections, and network access. While the Company has selected these third-party vendors carefully, it does not control their actions. Any problem caused by these third parties, including poor performance of services, failure to provide services, disruptions in communication services provided by a vendor and failure to handle current or higher volumes, could adversely affect the Company’s ability to deliver products and services to its customers and otherwise conduct its business, and may harm its reputation. Financial or operational difficulties of a third-party vendor could also hurt the Company’s operations if those difficulties interface with the vendor’s ability to serve the Company. Replacing these third-party vendors could also create significant delay and expense. Accordingly, use of such third parties creates an unavoidable inherent risk to the Company’s business operations.

Current wording

Third-party vendors provide key components of the Company’s business operations such as data processing, recording, and monitoring transactions, online banking interfaces and services, internet connections, and network access. While the Company maintains an extensive third-party risk management program and has selected these third-party vendors carefully, it does not control their actions. Any problem caused by these third parties, including poor performance of services, failure to provide services, disruptions in communication services provided by a vendor and failure to handle current or higher volumes, could adversely affect the Company’s ability to deliver products and services to its customers and otherwise conduct its business, and may harm its reputation. Financial or operational difficulties of a third-party vendor could also hurt the Company’s operations if those difficulties interface with the vendor’s ability to serve the Company. Replacing these third-party vendors could also create significant delay and expense. Accordingly, use of such third parties creates an unavoidable inherent risk to the Company’s business operations.

Previous wording

The authorities that promulgate accounting standards, including the Financial Accounting Standards Board, the SEC, and other regulatory authorities, periodically change the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements. These changes are difficult to predict and can materially impact how the Company records and reports its financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, the Company could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively, resulting in the restatement of financial statements for prior periods. Such changes could also require the Company to incur additional personnel or technology costs. For example, effective January 1, 2023, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 326, Financial Instruments– Credit Losses (referred herein as “current expected credit losses” or “CECL”). CECL is generally viewed throughout the industry as the most significant change in accounting standards to affect financial institutions in decades as it fundamentally changes the accounting for and estimation of the allowance for credit losses (“ACL”). The prior incurred loss approach was replaced by a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. As a result, the Company has incurred additional expenses to support both the adoption and the subsequent accounting and financial reporting requirements of CECL. For more information regarding recent accounting pronouncements and their effects on the Company, see “Recent Accounting Pronouncements” in Note 2 of the Company’s audited financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2024.

Current wording

The authorities that promulgate accounting standards, including the Financial Accounting Standards Board, the SEC, and other regulatory authorities, periodically change the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements. These changes are difficult to predict and can materially impact how the Company records and reports its financial condition and results of operations. In some cases, the Company could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively, resulting in the restatement of financial statements for prior periods. Such changes could also require the Company to incur additional personnel or technology costs. For example, effective January 1, 2023, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 326, Financial Instruments– Credit Losses (referred herein as “current expected credit losses” or “CECL”). CECL is generally viewed throughout the industry as the most significant change in accounting standards to affect financial institutions in decades, as it fundamentally changes the accounting for and estimation of the ACL. The prior incurred loss approach was replaced by a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. As a result, the Company has incurred additional expenses to support both the adoption and the subsequent accounting and financial reporting requirements of CECL. For more information regarding recent accounting pronouncements and their effects on the Company, see “Recent Accounting Pronouncements” in Note 2 of the Company’s audited financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2025.

Previous wording

In addition, financial challenges at other banking institutions could lead to depositor concerns that spread within the banking industry. In 2023 and 2024, several large regional banks experienced large deposit outflows coupled with insufficient liquidity to meet withdrawal demands, resulting in the institutions being placed into FDIC receivership. In the aftermath, there was substantial market disruption and concern that diminished depositor confidence could spread across the banking industry, leading to deposit outflows that could destabilize other institutions. While public confidence in the banking system has stabilized, deposit outflows caused by reputational concerns or events affecting the banking industry generally could adversely affect the Company’s liquidity, financial condition, and results of operations.

Current wording

In addition, financial challenges at other banking institutions could lead to depositor concerns that spread within the banking industry. In 2023 and 2024, several large regional banks experienced large deposit outflows coupled with insufficient liquidity to meet withdrawal demands, resulting in the institutions being placed into FDIC receivership. In the aftermath, there was substantial market disruption and concern that diminished depositor confidence could spread across the banking industry, leading to deposit outflows that could destabilize other institutions. While public confidence in the banking system has since stabilized, deposit outflows caused by reputational concerns or events affecting the banking industry generally could adversely affect the Company’s liquidity, financial condition, and results of operations.

Previous wording

The market for financial services, including banking and consumer finance services, is increasingly affected by advances in technology, including developments in telecommunications, data processing, computers, automation, online banking, and tele-banking. The Company’s ability to compete successfully in its market may depend on the extent to which it is able to implement or exploit such technological changes. If the Company is not able to afford such technologies, properly or timely anticipate or implement such technologies, or effectively train its staff to use such technologies, its business, financial condition, or operating results could be adversely affected.

Current wording

The market for financial services, including banking and consumer finance services, is increasingly affected by advances in technology, including recent and rapid developments in artificial intelligence, social media, and other developments in telecommunications, data processing, computers, automation, online banking, and tele-banking. The Company’s ability to compete successfully in its market may depend on the extent to which it is able to implement or exploit such technological changes. If the Company is not able to afford such technologies, properly or timely anticipate or implement such technologies, or effectively train its staff to use such technologies, its business, financial condition, or operating results could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

A deferred tax asset is created by the tax effect of the differences between an asset’s or liability's book value and its tax basis. The Company's total deferred tax asset at December 31, 2024 was $33.2 million, which represents the tax effect of future tax benefits, including a net operating loss carryforward. The Company assesses its deferred tax assets periodically to determine the likelihood of the Company’s ability to realize available benefits. These assessments consider the performance of the associated business and its ability to generate future taxable income. If the information available to the Company at the time of assessment indicates there is a greater than 50% chance that the Company will not realize the deferred tax asset benefit, the Company is required to establish a valuation allowance for the deferred tax asset and reduce its future deferred tax assets to the amount the Company believes could be realized. As of December 31, 2024, the Company determined it more likely than not that it will have sufficient future taxable income that will allow it to realize its deferred tax assets, including the net operating loss carryforward. However, it is possible that some or all its deferred tax asset, including the net operating loss carryforward, may not be realizable and would require a valuation allowance. A valuation allowance against the deferred tax asset would materially increase the Company's income tax expense in the period the allowance is recognized and adversely affect the Company's financial condition and results of operation.

Current wording

A deferred tax asset is created by the tax effect of the differences between an asset’s or liability's carrying value for financial reporting purposes and its tax basis. The Company's total deferred tax asset at December 31, 2025 was $27.6 million, which represents the tax effect of future tax benefits, including a net operating loss carryforward. The Company assesses its deferred tax assets periodically to determine the likelihood of the Company’s ability to realize the future benefits. These assessments consider the performance of the associated business and its ability to generate future taxable income. If the information available to the Company at the time of assessment indicates there is a greater than 50% chance that the Company will not realize the deferred tax asset benefit, the Company is required to establish a valuation allowance for the deferred tax asset and reduce its future deferred tax assets to the amount the Company believes could be realized. As of December 31, 2025, the Company determined it more likely than not that it will have sufficient future taxable income that will allow it to realize its deferred tax assets, including the net operating loss carryforward. However, it is possible that some or all its deferred tax asset, including the net operating loss carryforward, may not be realizable and would require a valuation allowance in future reporting periods. A valuation allowance against the deferred tax asset would materially increase the Company's income tax expense in the period the allowance is recognized and adversely affect the Company's financial condition and results of operation.

Previous wording

Deposit levels and other funding costs may be affected by a number of factors, including, but not limited to, rates paid by competitors, general interest rate levels, regulatory capital requirements, returns available to customers on alternative investments, and general economic conditions. If market interest rates rise or the Company’s competitors raise the rates they pay on deposits, the Company’s funding costs may increase, either because the Company raises its rates to avoid losing deposits or because the Company must rely on more expensive sources of funding. During 2024, the Company completed the winddown of its fintech BaaS deposit operations and, as of December 31, 2024, had $21.3 million of fintech-related deposits compared to $465.9 million as of December 31, 2023. The Company has offered higher cost deposits and brokered deposits to help manage liquidity as it exited its fintech deposit operations. Brokered deposits accounted for approximately $402.5 million, or 18.5%, of the Company’s deposits as of December 31, 2024. The Company’s cost of funds increased to 3.04% in 2024 compared to 2.56% in 2023. If funding costs continue to rise in future periods, as a result of reliance on higher cost deposits, further increases in market interest rates, rates paid by competitors, or otherwise, it could reduce the Company’s net interest income and could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows from operations.

Current wording

Deposit levels and funding costs may be affected by a number of factors, including, but not limited to, rates paid by competitors, general interest rate levels, regulatory capital requirements, returns available to customers on alternative investments, and general economic conditions. If market interest rates rise or the Company’s competitors raise the rates they pay on deposits, the Company’s funding costs may increase, either because the Company raises its rates to avoid losing deposits or because the Company must rely on more expensive sources of funding. During 2024, the Company exited its fintech BaaS deposit operations through a managed winddown plan. During the winddown, the Company offered higher cost deposits and had obtained brokered deposits to help manage liquidity as it exited the fintech BaaS deposit operations. Brokered deposits accounted for approximately $238.7 million, or 12.5%, of the Company’s total deposits as of December 31, 2025 compared to $402.5 million and $515.5 million, or 18.5% and 20.1%, of the Company's total deposits as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. While the Company’s cost of funds decreased to 2.66% in 2025 compared to 3.04% in 2024 and 2.56% in 2023, if funding costs increase in future periods, as a result of reliance on higher cost deposits, increases in market interest rates, rates paid by competitors, or otherwise, it could reduce the Company’s net interest income and could have an adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows from operations.

Previous wording

If customer deposits are not sufficient to fund the Company’s normal operations and liquidity needs, the Company may be required from time to time to rely on secondary sources of liquidity to meet withdrawal demands or otherwise fund operations. Such sources historically have included Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (“FHLB”) advances, sales of securities and loans, and federal funds lines of credit from correspondent banks, as well as additional out-of-market time deposits and brokered deposits. The Company’s ability to access borrowings from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond ("FRB") is dependent upon providing collateral to secure borrowings. While the Company believes its funding sources are currently adequate, there can be no assurance they will be sufficient to meet future liquidity demands, particularly if the Company experiences increasing loan demand or is unable to maintain or grow its deposit base. Further, there can be no assurance that these arrangements will be available to the Company when needed, on favorable terms, or at all, or that they will be sufficient to meet future liquidity needs. The Company may be required, among other things, to slow or discontinue loan growth, capital expenditures or other investments, or liquidate assets. If the Company is unable to access funding sufficient to support its business operations or is unable to access such funding on attractive terms, it may not be able to satisfy its obligations.

Current wording

The Company may be required from time to time to rely on secondary sources of liquidity to meet loan withdrawal demands or otherwise fund operations. Such sources historically have included Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (“FHLB”) advances, sales of securities and loans, and federal funds lines of credit from correspondent banks, as well as additional out-of-market time deposits and brokered deposits. The Company’s ability to access borrowings from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond (“FRB”) is dependent upon providing collateral to secure borrowings. While the Company believes its funding sources are currently adequate, there can be no assurance they will be sufficient to meet future liquidity demands, particularly if the Company experiences increasing loan demand or is unable to maintain or grow its deposit base. Further, there can be no assurance that these arrangements will be available to the Company when needed, on favorable terms, or at all, or that they will be sufficient to meet future liquidity needs. The Company may be required, among other things, to slow or discontinue loan growth, capital expenditures or other investments, or liquidate assets. If the Company is unable to access funding sufficient to support its business operations or is unable to access such funding on attractive terms, it may not be able to satisfy its obligations.