Orange County Bancorp, Inc. /DE/

Previous wording

We primarily serve individuals, businesses and municipalities located in the New York City metropolitan area and in Orange, Westchester and Rockland Counties, New York. As of December 31, 2023, most of our loan portfolio was secured by real estate and other assets located in these areas in New York. As a result, we are exposed to risks associated with lack of geographic diversification. The occurrence of an economic downturn in these areas, or adverse changes in laws or regulations in New York could impact the credit quality of our assets, the businesses of our customers and ability to expand our business. Our success significantly depends upon the growth in population, income levels, deposits and housing in our market area. If the communities in which we operate do not grow or if prevailing economic conditions locally or nationally are unfavorable, our business may be negatively affected.

Current wording

We primarily serve individuals, businesses and municipalities located in the New York City metropolitan area and in Orange, Westchester and Rockland Counties, New York. As of December 31, 2024, most of our loan portfolio was secured by real estate and other assets located in these areas in New York. As a result, we are exposed to risks associated with lack of geographic diversification. The occurrence of an economic downturn in these areas, or adverse changes in laws or regulations in New York could affect the credit quality of our assets, the businesses of our customers and ability to expand our business. Our success significantly depends upon the growth in population, income levels, deposits and housing in our market area. If the communities in which we operate do not grow or if prevailing economic conditions locally or nationally are unfavorable, our business may be negatively affected.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, approximately $1.4 billion, or 77.0%, of our total loan portfolio was secured by commercial real estate, almost all of which is located in our primary lending market. Future declines in the real estate values in the New York City metropolitan area and in Orange, Westchester and Rockland Counties and surrounding markets could significantly impair the value of the particular collateral securing our loans and our ability to sell the collateral upon foreclosure for an amount necessary to satisfy the borrower’s obligations to us. This could require increasing our allowance for credit losses to address the decrease in the value of the real estate securing our loans, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, approximately $1.4 billion, or 79.5%, of our total loan portfolio was secured by commercial real estate, including construction, almost all of which is located in our primary lending market. Future declines in the real estate values in the New York City metropolitan area and in Orange, Westchester and Rockland Counties and surrounding markets could significantly impair the value of the particular collateral securing our loans and our ability to sell the collateral upon foreclosure for an amount necessary to satisfy the borrower’s obligations to us. This could require increasing our allowance for credit losses to address the decrease in the value of real estate securing our loans, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.

Previous wording

Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. During 2023, inflation in the United States remained elevated. As a result, the FRB has continued to increase the federal funds rate by an additional 100 basis points in 2023 and has indicated its intention to maintain the increased interest rates in an effort to combat inflation. As inflation increases, the value of our investment securities, particularly those with longer maturities, would decrease, although this effect can be less pronounced for floating rate instruments. In addition, inflation increases the cost of goods and services we use in our business operations, such as electricity and other utilities, which increases our noninterest expenses. Furthermore, our customers are also affected by inflation and the rising costs of goods and services used in their households and businesses could have a negative impact on their ability to repay their loans with us.

Current wording

Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. During 2024, inflation in the United States experienced a slight decrease as compared to 2023. Accordingly, the FRB lowered the federal funds rate by half of a percentage point in September 2024, the first cut since 2020, followed by a quarter point in November 2024 and then again in December 2024. The FRB has indicated its intention to maintain its effort to combat inflation. With instability in the rate environment, the value of our investment securities, particularly those with longer maturities, could decrease, although this effect can be less pronounced for floating rate instruments. In addition, potential inflation increases the cost of goods and services in our business operations, such as electricity and other utilities, which increases our noninterest expenses. Furthermore,

Previous wording

Our loan portfolio includes commercial real estate loans, primarily loans secured by commercial retail space, office buildings and multifamily properties. At December 31, 2023, our commercial real estate loans totaled $1.3 billion, or 72.1%, of our total loan portfolio. Our commercial real estate loans expose us to greater risk of nonpayment and loss than one- to four-family family residential mortgage loans because repayment of the loans often depends on the successful operation and income stream of the borrowers. If we foreclose on these loans, our holding period for the collateral typically is longer than for a one- to four-family residential property because there are fewer potential purchasers of the collateral. Moreover, commercial real estate loans typically involve larger loan balances to single borrowers or groups of related borrowers compared to one- to four-family residential loans. Accordingly, charge-offs on commercial real estate loans may be larger on a per loan basis than those incurred with our residential or consumer loan portfolios. An unexpected adverse development on one or more of these types of loans can expose us to a significantly greater risk of loss compared to an adverse development with respect to a one- to four-family residential mortgage loan.

Current wording

Our loan portfolio includes commercial real estate loans, primarily loans secured by commercial retail space, office buildings and multifamily properties. At December 31, 2024, our commercial real estate loans totaled $1.4 billion, or 79.5%, of our total loan portfolio. Our commercial real estate loans expose us to greater risk of nonpayment and loss than one- to four-family family residential mortgage loans because repayment of the loans often depends on the successful operation and income stream of the borrowers. If we foreclose on these loans, our holding period for the collateral typically is longer than for a one- to four-family residential property because there are fewer potential purchasers of the collateral. Moreover, commercial real estate loans typically involve larger loan balances to single borrowers or groups of related borrowers compared to one- to four-family residential loans. Accordingly, charge-offs on commercial real estate loans may be larger on a per loan basis than those incurred with our residential or consumer loan portfolios. An unexpected adverse development on one or more of these types of loans can expose us to a significantly greater risk of loss compared to an adverse development with respect to a one- to four-family residential mortgage loan.

Previous wording

In 2006, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) and the FRB (collectively, the “Agencies”) issued joint guidance entitled “Concentrations in Commercial Real Estate Lending, Sound Risk Management Practices” (the “CRE Guidance”). Although the CRE Guidance did not establish specific lending limits, it provides that a bank’s commercial real estate lending exposure could receive increased supervisory scrutiny where total non-owner-occupied commercial real estate loans, including loans secured by apartment buildings, investor commercial real estate, and construction and land loans, represent 300% or more of an institution’s total risk-based capital, and the outstanding balance of the commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased by 50% or more during the preceding 36 months. Commercial real estate loans represent 417% of our risk-based capital at December 31, 2023 and the outstanding balance of our commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased by 102% during the 36 months preceding December 31, 2023.

Current wording

In 2006, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the “FDIC”) and the FRB (collectively, the “Agencies”) issued joint guidance entitled “Concentrations in Commercial Real Estate Lending, Sound Risk Management Practices” (the “CRE Guidance”). Although the CRE Guidance did not establish specific lending limits, it provides that a bank’s commercial real estate lending exposure could receive increased supervisory scrutiny where total non-owner-occupied commercial real estate loans, including loans secured by apartment buildings, investor commercial real estate, and construction and land loans, represent 300% or more of an institution’s total risk-based capital, and the outstanding balance of the commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased by 50% or more during the preceding 36 months. Commercial real estate loans represent 422% of our risk-based capital at December 31, 2024 and the outstanding balance of our commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased by 76% during the 36 months preceding December 31, 2024.

Previous wording

In December 2015, the Agencies released a new statement on prudent risk management for commercial real estate lending (the “2015 Statement”). In the 2015 Statement, the Agencies, among other things, indicate the intent to continue “to pay special attention” to commercial real estate lending activities and concentrations going forward. If the FRB, our primary federal regulator, were to impose restrictions on the amount of such loans we can hold in our portfolio or require us to implement additional compliance measures, for reasons noted above or otherwise, our earnings would be adversely affected as would our earnings per share.

Current wording

In December 2015, the Agencies released a new statement on prudent risk management for commercial real estate lending (the “2015 Statement”). In the 2015 Statement, the Agencies, among other things, indicate the intent to continue “to pay special attention” to commercial real estate lending activities and concentrations going forward. If the FRB, our primary federal regulator, were to impose restrictions on the amount of loans we can hold in our portfolio or require us to implement additional compliance measures, for reasons noted above or otherwise, our earnings would be adversely affected as would our earnings per share.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, $274.6 million, or 15.7% of our total loan portfolio, consisted of commercial and industrial loans (including $215 thousand of PPP loans). Our commercial and industrial loans are collateralized by general business assets, including accounts receivable, inventory and equipment and generally backed by a personal guaranty of the borrower or principal. These commercial and industrial loans are typically larger in amount than loans to individuals and, therefore, have the potential for larger losses on a per loan basis.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, $242.4 million, or 13.4% of our total loan portfolio, consisted of commercial and industrial loans. Our commercial and industrial loans are collateralized by general business assets, including accounts receivable, inventory and equipment and generally backed by a personal guaranty of the borrower or principal. These commercial and industrial loans are typically larger in amount than loans to individuals and, therefore, have the potential for larger losses on a per loan basis.

Previous wording

Further, the repayment of commercial and industrial loans is dependent upon the degree of success of the borrower’s underlying business. The collateral securing such loans may decline in value more rapidly than we anticipate, or may be difficult to market, sell or appraise, exposing us to increased credit risk. Significant adverse changes in the economy or local market conditions in which our commercial lending customers operate could cause rapid declines in loan collectability and the values associated with general business assets, resulting in inadequate collateral coverage that may expose us to credit losses and could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Further, the repayment of commercial and industrial loans is dependent upon the degree of success of the borrower’s underlying business. The collateral securing such loans may decline in value more rapidly than we anticipate, or may be difficult to market, sell or appraise, exposing us to increased credit risk. Significant adverse changes in the economy or

Previous wording

We make various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of our loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of our borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of many of our loans. In determining the amount of the allowance for credit losses, we review our loans and our loss and delinquency experience, and we evaluate economic conditions. If our assumptions or the results of our analyses are incorrect, our allowance for credit losses may not be sufficient to cover losses inherent in our loan portfolio, resulting in additions to our allowance. In addition, our emphasis on loan growth and on increasing our portfolios of commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans, as well as any future credit deterioration, could require us to increase our allowance for credit losses in the future. At December 31, 2023, our allowance for credit losses was 1.44% of total loans and 568.8% of nonperforming loans. Material additions to our allowance would materially decrease our net income.

Current wording

We make various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of our loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of our borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of many of our loans. In determining the amount of the allowance for credit losses, we review our loans and our loss and delinquency experience, and we evaluate economic conditions. If our assumptions or the results of our analyses are incorrect, our allowance for credit losses may not be sufficient to cover losses inherent in our loan portfolio, resulting in additions to our allowance. In addition, our emphasis on loan growth and on increasing our portfolios of commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans, as well as any future credit deterioration, could require us to increase our allowance for credit losses in the future. At December 31, 2024, our allowance for credit losses was 1.44% of total loans and 414.0% of nonperforming loans. Material additions to our allowance would materially decrease our net income.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, our non-performing assets, which consist of non-performing loans and other real estate owned, were $4.4 million, or 0.18% of total assets. Our non-performing assets adversely affect our net income in various ways:

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, our non-performing assets, which consist of non-performing loans and other real estate owned, were $6.3 million, or 0.25% of total assets. Our non-performing assets adversely affect our net income in various ways:

Previous wording

We participate in commercial real estate loans and commercial and industrial loans with other financial institutions from time to time in which we are not the lead lender. Our commercial real estate loan participations are limited to our geographic lending market which includes, the Hudson Valley, the New York City Metropolitan area, New Jersey and Connecticut. We also occasionally participate in commercial and industrial loans with other financial institutions in which we are not the lead lender. These loans are also limited to our geographic lending market and are generally secured by blanket UCC liens. At December 31, 2023, commercial real estate loan participations, including construction, for which we were not the lead lender totaled $112.2 million, or 10.2% of our commercial real estate loan portfolio, including commercial real estate construction, and commercial and industrial loan participations for which we were not the lead lender totaled $1.5 million, or 0.57% of our commercial and industrial loan portfolio.

Current wording

We participate in commercial real estate loans and commercial and industrial loans with other financial institutions from time to time in which we are not the lead lender. Our commercial real estate loan participations are limited to our geographic lending market which includes, the Hudson Valley, the New York City Metropolitan area, New Jersey and Connecticut. We also occasionally participate in commercial and industrial loans with other financial institutions in which we are not the lead lender. These loans are also limited to our geographic lending market and are generally secured by blanket UCC liens. At December 31, 2024, commercial real estate loan participations, including construction,

Previous wording

We underwrite each commercial real estate loan and commercial and industrial loan that we participate in and establish the loan classification and loan provision using the same criteria we use for loans we originate. Loan participations may have a higher risk of loss than loans we originate because we rely on the lead lender to service and to monitor the performance of the loan. Moreover, our decisions regarding the classification of a loan participation and loan loss provisions associated with a loan participation are made in part based upon information provided by the lead lender. A lead lender also may not monitor a participation loan in the same manner as we would for loans that we originate. At December 31, 2023, no loan participations were delinquent 60 days or more. If our underwriting of these participation loans is not sufficient, our non-performing loans may increase, and our earnings may decrease.

Current wording

We underwrite each commercial real estate loan and commercial and industrial loan that we participate in and establish the loan classification and loan provision using the same criteria we use for loans we originate. Loan participations may have a higher risk of loss than loans we originate because we rely on the lead lender to service and to monitor the performance of the loan. Moreover, our decisions regarding the classification of a loan participation and loan loss provisions associated with a loan participation are made in part based upon information provided by the lead lender. A lead lender also may not monitor a participation loan in the same manner as we would for loans that we originate. At December 31, 2024, we had one loan participation which was delinquent 60 days or more. If our underwriting of these participation loans is not sufficient, our non-performing loans may increase, and our earnings may decrease.

Previous wording

We purchase commercial and industrial loans from time to time outside our market area. We have purchased loans primarily to the medical industry that are secured by UCC blanket liens on all business assets and are distributed throughout the United States. These loan purchases may have a higher risk of loss than loans we originate because they are located outside of our primary market area. All loans purchased are in compliance with our approved underwriting standards specific to purchased loans under this program. These loans may have a higher risk of loss as our decision regarding the classification of these loans and loan loss provisions associated with these loans are made in part based upon information provided by the servicer. At December 31, 2023, our purchased commercial and industrial loans totaled $53.5 million, or 3.1% of our loan portfolio and 19.6% of our commercial and industrial loan portfolio, none of which were delinquent 60 days or more. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we did not purchase any loans from the partially guaranteed consumer loan program. If our underwriting of these purchased loans is not sufficient, our non-performing loans may increase and our earnings may decrease.

Current wording

We purchase commercial and industrial loans from time to time outside our market area. We have purchased loans primarily to the medical industry that are secured by UCC blanket liens on all business assets and are distributed throughout the United States. These loan purchases may have a higher risk of loss than loans we originate because they are located outside of our primary market area. All loans purchased are in compliance with our approved underwriting standards specific to purchased loans under this program. These loans may have a higher risk of loss as our decision regarding the classification of these loans and loan loss provisions associated with these loans are made in part based upon information provided by the servicer. At December 31, 2024, our purchased commercial and industrial loans totaled $48.6 million, or 2.7% of our loan portfolio and 20.1% of our commercial and industrial loan portfolio, none of which were delinquent 60 days or more. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we did not purchase any loans from the partially guaranteed consumer loan program. If our underwriting of these purchased loans is not sufficient, our non-performing loans may increase and our earnings may decrease.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, we had approximately $1.6 billion in assets under management. Our wealth management operations with HVIA and our trust and administration services provided through the Bank’s trust services department present special risks not borne by institutions that focus exclusively on other traditional retail and commercial banking products. For example, the investment advisory industry is subject to fluctuations in the stock market that may have a significant adverse effect on transaction fees, client activity and client investment portfolio gains and losses. Also, additional or modified regulations may adversely affect our wealth management and trust services operations. In addition, our wealth management and trust service operations are dependent on a small number of established financial advisors and other service providers, whose departure could result in the loss of a significant number of client accounts. A significant decline in fees and commissions or trading losses suffered in the investment portfolio could adversely affect our income and potentially require the contribution of additional capital to support our operations.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, we had approximately $1.8 billion in assets under management. Our wealth management operations with HVIA and our trust and administration services provided through the Bank’s trust services department present special risks not borne by institutions that focus exclusively on other traditional retail and commercial banking products. For example, the investment advisory industry is subject to fluctuations in the stock market that may have a significant adverse effect on transaction fees, client activity and client investment portfolio gains and losses. Also, additional or modified regulations may adversely affect our wealth management and trust services operations. In addition, our wealth management and trust service operations are dependent on a small number of established financial advisors and other service providers, whose departure could result in the loss of a significant number of client accounts. A significant decline in fees and commissions or trading losses suffered in the investment portfolio could adversely affect our income and potentially require the contribution of additional capital to support our operations.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, we had $1.8 billion of deposit liabilities that have no maturity and, therefore, may be withdrawn by the depositor at any time. These deposit liabilities include our checking, savings, and money market deposit accounts.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, we had $1.9 billion of deposit liabilities that have no maturity and, therefore, may be withdrawn by the depositor at any time. These deposit liabilities include our checking, savings, and money market deposit accounts.

Previous wording

Market conditions may impact the competitive landscape for deposits in the banking industry. The rising interest rate environment and future actions the FRB may take may impact pricing and demand for deposits in the banking industry. The withdrawal of more deposits than we anticipate could have an adverse impact on our profitability as this source of funding, if not replaced by similar deposit funding, would need to be replaced with wholesale funding, the sale of interest-earning assets, or a combination of these two actions. The replacement of deposit funding with wholesale funding could cause our overall cost of funding to increase, which would reduce our net interest income. A loss of interest-earning assets could also reduce our net interest income.

Current wording

Market conditions may affect the competitive landscape for deposits in the banking industry. The volatility of the interest rate environment and future decisions by the FRB may impact pricing and demand for deposits in the banking industry. The withdrawal of more deposits than we anticipate could have an adverse impact on our profitability as this source of funding, if not replaced by similar deposit funding, would need to be replaced with wholesale funding, the sale of interest-earning assets, or a combination of these two actions. The replacement of deposit funding with wholesale funding could cause our overall cost of funding to increase, which would reduce our net interest income. A loss of interest-earning assets could also reduce our net interest income.

Previous wording

Municipal deposits are a significant source of funds for our lending and investment activities. At December 31, 2023, $270.1 million, or 13.3% of our total deposits, consisted of municipal deposits from local government entities such as county, village and town governments, school districts, fire departments and other municipalities, which are collateralized by investment securities. Given our dependence on high-average balance municipal deposits as a source of funds, our inability to retain such funds could significantly and adversely affect our liquidity. Further, our municipal deposits are primarily demand deposit accounts or short-term time deposits and are therefore more sensitive to interest rate risks. If we are forced to pay higher rates on our municipal accounts to retain those funds, or if we are unable to retain such funds and we are forced to resort to other sources of funds for our lending and investment activities, such as borrowings from the FHLB, the interest expense associated with these other funding sources may be higher than the rates we are currently paying on our municipal deposits, which would adversely affect our net income.

Current wording

Municipal deposits are a significant source of funds for our lending and investment activities. At December 31, 2024, $281.8 million, or 13.1% of our total deposits, consisted of municipal deposits from local government entities such as county, village and town governments, school districts, fire departments and other municipalities, which are collateralized by investment securities. Given our dependence on high-average balance municipal deposits as a source of funds, our inability to retain such funds could significantly and adversely affect our liquidity. Further, our municipal deposits are primarily demand deposit accounts or short-term time deposits and are therefore more sensitive to interest rate risks. If we are forced to pay higher rates on our municipal accounts to retain those funds, or if we are unable to retain such funds and we are forced to resort to other sources of funds for our lending and investment activities, such as borrowings from the FHLB, the interest expense associated with these other funding sources may be higher than the rates we are currently paying on our municipal deposits, which would adversely affect our net income.

Previous wording

Our earnings and cash flows depend largely upon our net interest income. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond our control, including general economic conditions and policies of governmental and regulatory agencies, particularly the Federal Reserve. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence the interest we receive on loans and investments and the amount of interest we pay on deposits and borrowings, which may affect our net interest margins. Such changes could also affect (i) demand for our products and services and price competition, in turn affecting our ability to originate loans and obtain deposits; (ii) the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities; (iii) the average duration of our mortgage-backed securities portfolio and other interest-earning assets; (iv) levels of defaults on loans; and (v) loan prepayments.

Current wording

Our earnings and cash flows depend largely upon our net interest income. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond our control, including general economic conditions and policies of governmental and regulatory agencies, particularly the FRB. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence the interest we receive on loans and investments and the amount of interest we pay on deposits and borrowings, which may affect our net interest margins. Such changes could also affect (i) demand for our products and services and price competition, in turn affecting our ability to originate loans and obtain deposits; (ii) the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities; (iii) the average duration of our mortgage-backed securities portfolio and other interest-earning assets; (iv) levels of defaults on loans; and (v) loan prepayments.

Previous wording

During 2023, in response to accelerated inflation, the Federal Reserve continued to implement monetary tightening policies, resulting in increased interest rates. The Federal Reserve has signaled that interest rates may remain elevated. 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, our net interest income, and therefore earnings, could be adversely affected. In addition, our net interest margin may contract in a rising rate environment because our funding costs may increase faster than the yield we earn on our interest-earning assets. In a rising rate environment, demand for loans may decrease and loans with adjustable interest rates are more likely to experience a higher rate of default. Additionally, changes in interest rates also affect the fair value of the securities portfolio. Generally, the value of securities moves inversely with changes in interest rates. The combination of these events may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

During 2024, the FRB reduced interest rates in response to economic indicators. The FRB has indicated a cautious approach in 2025 in order to control inflation. Rate cuts are anticipated but not certain. 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, our net interest income, and therefore earnings, could be adversely affected. In addition, our net interest margin may contract in a rising rate environment because our funding costs may increase faster than the yield we earn on our interest-earning assets. In a rising rate environment, demand for loans may decrease and loans with adjustable interest rates are more likely to experience a higher rate of default. Additionally, changes in interest rates also affect the fair value of the securities portfolio. Generally, the value of securities moves inversely with changes in interest rates. The combination of these events may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

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. In addition, in a falling rate environment or the recent pandemic-related environment where the Federal Reserve held the federal reference rate near 0.00%, loans may be prepaid sooner than we expect, which could result in a delay between when we receive the prepayment and when we are able to redeploy the funds into new interest-earning assets and in a decrease in the amount of interest income we are able to earn on those assets. If we are unable to manage these risks effectively, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

Current wording

Earnings could also be adversely affected if the interest rates received on loans and other investments drop at a faster pace than the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings. In addition, in a falling rate environment or the previous pandemic-related environment where the FRB held the federal reference rate near 0.00%, loans may be prepaid sooner than we expect, which could result in a delay between when we receive the prepayment and when we are able to redeploy the funds into new interest-earning assets and in a decrease in the amount of interest income we are able to earn on those assets. If we are unable to manage these risks effectively, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our securities portfolio may be affected by fluctuations in market value, potentially reducing accumulated other comprehensive income or earnings. Fluctuations in market value may be caused by changes in market interest rates, lower market prices for securities and limited investor demand. Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment on a quarterly basis, with more frequent evaluation for selected issues. In analyzing a debt issuer’s financial condition, management considers whether the securities are issued by the federal government or its agencies, whether downgrades by bond rating agencies have occurred, industry analysts’ reports and spread differentials between the effective rates on instruments in the portfolio compared to risk-free rates. Changes in interest rates may also have an adverse effect on our financial condition, as our available-for-sale securities are reported at their estimated fair value, and therefore are affected by fluctuations in interest rates. We increase or decrease our stockholders’ equity by the amount of change in the estimated fair value of the available-for-sale securities, net of taxes. Declines in market value may result in other-than-temporary impairments of these assets, which may lead to accounting charges that could have a material adverse effect on our net income and stockholders’ equity. We also increase or decrease our stockholders’ equity by the amount of change in the fair value of equity securities through net income in the consolidated statement of operations.

Current wording

Our securities portfolio may be affected by fluctuations in market value, potentially reducing accumulated other comprehensive income or earnings. Fluctuations in market value may be caused by changes in market interest rates, lower market prices for securities and limited investor demand. Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment on a quarterly basis, with more frequent evaluation for selected issues. In analyzing a debt issuer’s financial condition, management considers whether the securities are issued by the federal government or its agencies, whether downgrades by bond rating agencies have occurred, industry analysts’ reports and spread differentials between the effective rates on instruments in the portfolio compared to risk-free rates. Changes in interest rates may also have an adverse effect on our financial condition, as our available-for-sale securities are reported at their estimated fair value, and therefore are affected by fluctuations in interest rates. We increase or decrease our stockholders’ equity by the amount of change in the estimated fair value of the available-for-sale securities, net of taxes. The Company also evaluates the need to establish and maintain an allowance for credit losses on investment securities. The allowance for credit losses is increased through a provision for credit losses charged to operations. Like loans, investment security credit losses are charged against their respective allowance for credit losses when management believes that the collectibility of all or a portion of the principal is unlikely. While management uses available information to determine potential credit losses on investment securities, future additions to the allowance may be required based on changes in economic conditions, regulatory requirements, or other information. These charges could have a material adverse effect on our net income and stockholders’ equity. We also increase or decrease our stockholders’ equity by the amount of change in the fair value of equity securities through net income in the consolidated statement of operations.

Previous wording

Insurance coverage may not be available for such losses, or where available, such losses may exceed insurance limits. This risk of loss also includes the potential legal actions that could arise as a result of operational deficiencies or as a result of non-compliance with applicable regulatory standards, adverse business decisions or their implementation, or customer attrition due to potential negative publicity. In the event of a breakdown in our internal control systems, improper operation of systems or improper employee actions, we could suffer financial loss, face regulatory action, and/or suffer damage to our reputation.

Current wording

We operate in diverse markets and rely on the ability of our employees and systems to process a high number of transactions. Operational risk is the risk of loss resulting from our operations, including but not limited to, the risk of fraud by employees or individuals outside our company, the execution of unauthorized transactions by employees, errors relating to transaction processing and technology, breaches of our internal control systems and compliance requirements. Insurance coverage may not be available for such losses, or where available, such losses may exceed insurance limits. This risk of loss also includes the potential legal actions that could arise as a result of operational deficiencies or as a result of non-compliance with applicable regulatory standards, adverse business decisions or their implementation, or customer attrition due to potential negative publicity. In the event of a breakdown in our internal control systems, improper operation of systems or improper employee actions, we could suffer financial loss, face regulatory action, and/or suffer damage to our reputation.

Previous wording

Federal regulations establish minimum capital requirements for insured depository institutions, including minimum risk-based capital and leverage ratios and define what constitutes “capital” for calculating these ratios. The regulations also establish a “capital conservation buffer” of 2.5%, effectively resulting in the following minimum capital ratios after giving effect to the additional capital conservation buffer: (1) a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 7.0%, (2) a Tier 1 to risk-based assets capital ratio of 8.5%, and (3) a total capital ratio of 10.5%. Additionally, if our consolidated assets increase to $3.0 billion or larger, the Company would be subject to consolidated holding company capital requirements similar to those applicable to Orange Bank & Trust Company. The application of such stringent capital requirements could, among other things, result in lower returns on equity, requiring the raising of additional capital, and resulting in regulatory actions constraining us from paying dividends or repurchasing shares if we are unable to comply with such requirements.

Current wording

Federal regulations establish minimum capital requirements for insured depository institutions, including minimum risk-based capital and leverage ratios and define what constitutes “capital” for calculating these ratios. The regulations also establish a “capital conservation buffer” of 2.5%, effectively resulting in the following minimum capital ratios after giving effect to the additional capital conservation buffer: (1) a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 7.0%, (2) a Tier 1 to risk-based assets capital ratio of 8.5%, and (3) a total capital ratio of 10.5%. Additionally, if our consolidated assets increase to $3.0 billion or larger, the Company would be subject to consolidated holding company capital requirements similar to those applicable to Orange Bank & Trust Company. The application of such stringent capital requirements could, among other things, result in lower returns on equity, requiring the raising of additional capital, and resulting in

Previous wording

Liquidity is essential to our business as we must be able to meet the cash needs of borrowers and depositors. Our liquidity could be impaired by an inability to access the capital markets or unforeseen outflows of cash. Reduced liquidity may arise due to circumstances that we may be unable to control, such as a general market disruption or an operational problem that affects third parties or us. Our efforts to monitor and manage liquidity risk may not be successful or sufficient to deal with dramatic or unanticipated reductions in our liquidity. In such events, our cost of funds may increase, thereby reducing our net interest income, or we may need to sell a portion of our investment and/or loan portfolio, which, depending upon market conditions, could result in us realizing a loss.

Current wording

Liquidity is essential to our business as we must be able to meet the cash needs of borrowers and depositors. Our liquidity could be impaired by an inability to access the capital markets or unforeseen outflows of cash. Reduced liquidity may arise due to circumstances that we may be unable to control, such as market disruption or an operational problem that affects third parties or us. Our efforts to monitor and manage liquidity risk may not be successful or sufficient to deal with dramatic or unanticipated reductions in our liquidity. In such events, our cost of funds may increase, thereby reducing our net interest income, or we may need to sell a portion of our investment and/or loan portfolio, which, depending upon market conditions, could result in us realizing a loss.

Previous wording

specific attributes, including reliance on or role in carbon intensive activities. Among the impacts to us could be a drop in demand for our products and services, particularly in certain sectors. In addition, we could face reductions in creditworthiness on the part of some customers or in the value of assets securing loans. Our efforts to take these risks into account in making lending and other decisions, including by increasing our business with climate-friendly companies, may not be effective in protecting us from the negative impact of new laws and regulations or changes in consumer or business behavior.

Current wording

Concerns over the long-term impacts of climate change have led and will continue to lead to governmental efforts around the world to mitigate those impacts. Consumers and businesses also may change their behavior on their own as a result of these concerns. We and our customers will need to respond to new laws and regulations as well as consumer and business preferences resulting from climate change concerns. We and our customers may face cost increases, asset value reductions and operating process changes. The impact on our customers will likely vary depending on their specific attributes, including reliance on or role in carbon intensive activities. Among the impacts to us could be a drop in demand for our products and services, particularly in certain sectors. In addition, we could face reductions in creditworthiness on the part of some customers or in the value of assets securing loans. Our efforts to take these risks into account in making lending and other decisions, including by increasing our business with climate-friendly companies, may not be effective in protecting us from the negative impact of new laws and regulations or changes in consumer or business behavior.

Previous wording

We cannot predict how changes in technology will impact our business; increased use of technology may expose us to service interruptions or breaches in security.

Current wording

We cannot predict how changes in technology will affect our business; increased use of technology may expose us to service interruptions or breaches in security.

Previous wording

Our ability to compete successfully in the future will depend, to a certain extent, on whether we can anticipate and respond to technological changes. We offer electronic banking services for our consumer and business clients via our website, www.orangebanktrust.com, including Internet banking and electronic bill payment, as well as mobile banking by phone. We also offer check cards, ATM cards, credit cards, and automatic and ACH transfers. The successful operation and further development of these and other new technologies will likely require additional capital investments in the future. In addition, increased use of electronic banking creates opportunities for interruptions in service or security breaches, which could expose us to claims by clients or other third parties and damage our reputation. We cannot assure you that we will have sufficient resources or access to the necessary proprietary technology to remain competitive in the future, or that we will be able to maintain a secure electronic environment.

Current wording

Our ability to compete successfully in the future will depend, to a certain extent, on whether we can anticipate and respond to technological changes. We offer electronic banking services for our consumer and business clients via our website, www.orangebanktrust.com, including Internet banking and electronic bill payment, as well as mobile banking by phone. We also offer check cards, ATM cards, credit cards, and automatic and ACH transfers. The successful operation and further development of these and other new technologies will likely require additional capital investment in the future. In addition, increased use of electronic banking creates opportunities for interruptions in service or security breaches, which could expose us to claims by clients or other third parties and damage our reputation. We cannot assure you that we will have sufficient resources or access to the necessary proprietary technology to remain competitive in the future, or that we will be able to maintain a secure electronic environment.

Previous wording

We will remain an emerging growth company for up to five years from the end of the year in which we completed our initial public offering, though we may cease to be an emerging growth company earlier under certain circumstances, including if, before the end of such five years, we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer under the rules of the SEC (which depends on, among other things, having a market value of common stock held by non-affiliates in excess of $700 million). Investors and securities analysts may find it more difficult to evaluate our common stock because we will rely on one or more of these exemptions. If, as a result, some investors find our common stock less attractive, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock, which could result in a reductions and greater volatility in the prices of our common stock.

Current wording

We will remain an emerging growth company for up to five years from the end of the year in which we completed our initial public offering, though we may cease to be an emerging growth company earlier under certain circumstances, including if, before the end of such five years, we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer under the rules of the SEC (which depends on, among other things, having a market value of common stock held by non-affiliates in excess of $700 million). Investors and securities analysts may find it more difficult to evaluate our common stock because we will rely on one or more of these exemptions. If, as a result, some investors find our common stock less attractive, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock, which could result in a reduction and greater volatility in the price of our common stock.

Previous wording

The holders of our common stock will receive cash dividends if and when declared by our board of directors out of legally available funds. Although we have paid a cash dividend for at least 39 consecutive years, we have no obligation to continue paying dividends. Any future determination relating to our dividend policy will be made at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on a number of factors, including our future earnings, capital requirements, financial condition, future prospects, regulatory restrictions, and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant.

Current wording

The holders of our common stock will receive cash dividends if and when declared by our board of directors out of legally available funds. Although we have paid a cash dividend for at least 40 consecutive years, we have no obligation to continue paying dividends. Any future determination relating to our dividend policy will be made at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on a number of factors, including our future earnings, capital requirements, financial condition, future prospects, regulatory restrictions, and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant.

Previous wording

Our directors and executive officers, as a group, beneficially owned approximately 10.9% of our outstanding shares of common stock as of December 31, 2023. To our knowledge, although there is no written agreement between members of the Morrison family to act in concert, relatives of director William D. Morrison and William D. Morrison beneficially owned collectively approximately 24.5% of our outstanding shares of common stock as of December 31, 2023. William D. Morrison beneficially owned approximately 1.0% of our outstanding shares of common stock as of December 31, 2023. As a result of this level of ownership, our directors and executive officers and members of the Morrison family have the ability, by taking coordinated action, to exercise significant influence over our affairs and policies. The interests of our directors and executive officers and members of the Morrison family may not be consistent with your interests as a stockholder. This influence may also have the effect of delaying or preventing changes of control or changes in management, or limiting the ability of our other stockholders to approve transactions that they may deem to be in the best interests of our Company.

Current wording

Our directors and executive officers, as a group, beneficially owned approximately 9.14% of our outstanding shares of common stock as of December 31, 2024. To our knowledge, although there is no written agreement between members of the Morrison family to act in concert, relatives of director William D. Morrison and William D. Morrison beneficially owned collectively approximately 25.6% of our outstanding shares of common stock as of December 31, 2024. William D. Morrison beneficially owned approximately 1.0% of our outstanding shares of common stock as of December 31, 2024. As a result of this level of ownership, our directors and executive officers and members of the Morrison family have the ability, by taking coordinated action, to exercise significant influence over our affairs and policies. The interests of our directors and executive officers and members of the Morrison family may not be consistent with your interests as a stockholder. This influence may also have the effect of delaying or preventing changes of control or changes in management, or limiting the ability of our other stockholders to approve transactions that they may deem to be in the best interests of our Company.