HBT Financial Inc

NOTE 1 –ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

HBT Financial, Inc. (“HBT Financial” or the “Company”) is headquartered in Bloomington, Illinois and is the holding company for Heartland Bank and Trust Company (“Heartland Bank” or the “Bank”). The Bank provides a comprehensive suite of financial products and services to consumers, businesses, and municipal entities throughout Illinois and eastern Iowa. Additionally, the Company is subject to the regulations of certain federal and state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory agencies.

The unaudited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“GAAP”) interim reporting requirements. Certain information in footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP has been condensed or omitted pursuant to rules and regulations of the SEC. These interim unaudited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on March 6, 2024.

The unaudited consolidated financial statements include all normal, recurring adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods. The results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for a full year.

The Company qualifies as an "emerging growth company" as defined by the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (“JOBS Act”). The JOBS Act permits emerging growth companies an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards affecting public companies. The Company may remain an emerging growth company until the earliest to occur of: (1) the end of the fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the completion of our initial public offering, which is December 31, 2024, (2) the last day of the fiscal year in which the Company has $1.235 billion or more in annual revenues, (3) the date on which the Company is deemed to be a “large accelerated filer” under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or (4) the date on which the Company has, during the previous three year period, issued, publicly or privately, more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt securities. The Company has elected to use the extended transition period until the Company is no longer an emerging growth company or until the Company chooses to affirmatively and irrevocably opt out of the extended transition period. As a result, the Company’s financial statements may not be comparable to companies that comply with new or revised accounting pronouncements applicable to public companies. The Company expects to exit its status as an emerging growth company as of December 31, 2024.

Use of Estimates

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with GAAP. In preparing the financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the balance sheet and the reported results of operations for the periods then ended.

Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant changes in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for credit losses.

Low Income Housing Tax Credits

The Company holds an ownership interest in a limited liability company, as a limited member, that invests in affordable housing projects. This investment is designed to generate a return primarily through the realization of federal tax credits and deductions, which may be subject to recapture by taxing authorities if compliance requirements are not met. The Company accounts for its low income housing investments using the proportional amortization method.

The Company’s investment in the qualified affordable housing project meets the definition of a variable interest entity ("VIE") as the entity is structured such that the limited partner investors lack substantive voting rights. The managing member has both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the entity and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could be significant to the entity. Accordingly, the Company is not the primary beneficiary and is not required to consolidate this entity. The Company's maximum exposure to loss is limited to the carrying amount of the investment, which was $7.3 million as of September 30, 2024.

Segment Reporting

The Company’s operations consist ofone reportable segment. The Company’s chief operating decision maker evaluates the operations of the Company using consolidated information for purposes of allocating resources and assessing performance.

Reclassifications

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation without any impact on the reported amounts of net income or stockholders’ equity.

Subsequent Events

In preparing these consolidated financial statements, the Company has evaluated events and transactions for potential recognition or disclosure through the date the financial statements were issued.

Impact of Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

On January 1, 2024, the Company adopted ASU 2023-02, Investments—Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323). ASU 2023-02 permits an election to use the proportional amortization method to account for equity investments made primarily for the purpose of receiving income tax credits and other income tax benefits, regardless of the tax credit program from which the income tax credits are received, provided that certain conditions are met. The proportional amortization method results in the cost of the investment being amortized in proportion to the income tax credits and other income tax benefits received, with the amortization of the investment and the income tax credits being presented net in the income statement as a component of income tax expense. The Company adopted ASU 2023-02 using the modified retrospective method. The Company recorded a $0.1 million increase to retained earnings and decrease to deferred tax liability, as well as a $7.2 million increase to other assets and other liabilities, as a result of the adoption.

In June 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-03, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to Contractual Sale Restrictions. ASU 2022-03 clarifies that a contractual restriction on the sale of an equity security is not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, is not considered in measuring fair value and that contractual sale restrictions cannot be recognized and measured as a separate unit of account. The amendments in this update are effective for years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those years. This standard did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated results of operations or financial position.

In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-01, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Fair Value Hedging – Portfolio Layer Method. ASU 2022-01 replaces the current last-of-layer hedge accounting method with an expanded portfolio layer method that permits multiple hedged layers of a single closed portfolio. The scope of the portfolio layer method is also expanded to include non-prepayable financial assets. ASU 2022-01 also provides additional guidance on the accounting for and disclosure of hedge basis adjustments that are applicable to the portfolio layer method, and specifies how hedge basis adjustments should be considered when determining credit losses for the assets included in the closed portfolio. Amendments related to hedge basis adjustments which are included in this standard apply on a modified retrospective basis by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings on the initial application date. Amendments related to disclosure which are included in this standard may be applied on a prospective basis from the initial application date, or on a retrospective basis to each prior period presented after the date of adoption of the amendments in ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities. The amendments in this update are effective for years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted. This standard did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated results of operations or financial position.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. ASU 2023-07 expands disclosure requirements for significant segment expenses under Topic 280. The amendments require public entities to disclose significant expense categories for each reportable segment, other segment items, the title and position of the chief operating decision-maker, and interim disclosures of certain segment-related information previously required only on an annual basis. The amendments clarify that entities reporting single segments must disclose both the new and existing segment disclosures under Topic 280, and a public entity is permitted to disclose multiple measures of segment profit or loss if certain criteria are met. The amendments in this update are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2024. ASU 2023-07 must be applied on a retrospective basis. Early adoption is permitted. This standard is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated results of operations or financial position.

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. ASU 2023-09 expands income tax disclosure requirements. The amendments require annual disclosure of certain information relating to the rate reconciliation, income taxes paid by jurisdiction, income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (benefit) disaggregated between domestic and foreign, income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations disaggregated by federal (national), state, and foreign. The amendments also eliminate certain requirements relating to unrecognized tax benefits and certain deferred tax disclosure relating to subsidiaries and corporate joint ventures. The amendments in this update are effective for years beginning after December 15, 2024. ASU 2023-09 should be applied on a prospective basis, but retrospective application is permitted. Early adoption is permitted. This standard is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated results of operations or financial position.

NOTE 2 –ACQUISITIONS

Town and Country Financial Corporation

On February 1, 2023, HBT Financial acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common stock of Town and Country Financial Corporation (“Town and Country”), the holding company for Town and Country Bank, pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated August 23, 2022. Under the Agreement and Plan of Merger, Town and Country merged with and into HBT Financial, with HBT Financial as the surviving entity, immediately followed by the merger of Town and Country Bank with and into Heartland Bank, with Heartland Bank as the surviving entity.

At the effective time of the merger, each share of Town and Country was converted into the right to receive, subject to the election and proration procedures as provided in the Merger Agreement, one of the following: (i)1.9010 shares of HBT Financial’s common stock, or (ii) $35.66 in cash, or (iii) a combination of cash and HBT Financial common stock. Total consideration consisted of 3,378,600 shares of HBT Financial’s common stock and $38.0 million in cash. In lieu of fractional shares, holders of Town and Country common stock received cash. Based upon the closing price of HBT Financial common stock of $21.12 on February 1, 2023, the aggregate transaction value was approximately $109.4 million.

This transaction was accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting and, accordingly, assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and consideration exchanged were recorded at estimated fair values on the date of acquisition. Fair values are subject to refinement for up toone year after the closing date of February 1, 2023. Measurement period adjustments of $0.1 million were recorded in the third quarter of 2023 as more information became available regarding Town and Country's tax assets and liabilities. Goodwill of $30.5 million was recorded in the acquisition, which reflects expected synergies from combining the operations of HBT Financial and Town and Country, and is nondeductible for tax purposes.

The acquisition of Town and Country further enhanced HBT Financial’s footprint in central Illinois, and expanded our footprint into metro-east St. Louis. Acquisition-related expenses recognized during the nine months ended September 30, 2023 are summarized below. There wereno Town and Country acquisition-related expenses recognized subsequent to the second quarter of 2023.

The fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Town and Country on the acquisition date of February 1, 2023 were as follows (dollars in thousands):

Of the loans acquired, there were $89.8 million which exhibited more-than-insignificant credit deterioration on the acquisition date. The following table provides a summary of these PCD loans at acquisition (dollars in thousands):

Additionally, subsequent to the Town and Country acquisition, HBT Financial recognized an allowance for credit losses on non-PCD loans of $5.2 million and an allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments of $0.7 million through an increase to the provision for credit losses.

The following table provides the pro forma information for the results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 as if the acquisition of Town and Country had occurred on January 1, 2022. The pro forma results combine the historical results of Town and Country into HBT Financial’s consolidated statements of income, including the impact of certain acquisition accounting adjustments, which include loan discount accretion, intangible assets amortization, deposit premium amortization, and borrowing premium amortization. The pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of the results that would have been obtained had the acquisition actually occurred on January 1, 2022. No assumptions have been applied to the pro forma results of operations regarding possible revenue enhancements, provision for credit losses, expense efficiencies or asset dispositions. The acquisition-related expenses that have been recognized are included in net income in the following table.

NOTE 3 –SECURITIES

Debt Securities

The amortized cost and fair values of debt securities, with gross unrealized gains and losses and allowance for credit losses, are as follows:

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Bank had debt securities with a carrying value of $549.3 million and $419.4 million, respectively, which were pledged to secure public deposits, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, available borrowing capacity, and for other purposes required or permitted by law.

The amortized cost and fair value of debt securities by contractual maturity, as of September 30, 2024, are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

The following table presents gross unrealized losses and fair value of debt securities available-for-sale that do not have an associated allowance for credit losses as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, aggregated by category and length of time that individual debt securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position:

As of September 30, 2024, there were 627 debt securities in an unrealized loss position for a period of twelve months or more, and 13 debt securities in an unrealized loss position for a period of less than twelve months.

U.S. Treasury, U.S. government agency, and agency mortgage-backed securities are considered to have no risk of credit loss as they are either explicitly or implicitly guaranteed by the U.S. government. The changes in fair value in these portfolios are considered to be primarily driven by changes in market interest rates and other non-credit risks, such as prepayment and liquidity risks.

Municipal securities include approximately 73% general obligation bonds as of September 30, 2024, which have a very low historical default rate due to issuers generally having taxing authority to service the debt. The remainder of the municipal securities are also of high credit quality with ratings of Aa3/AA- or better. The Company evaluates credit risk through monitoring credit ratings and reviews of available financial data. The changes in fair value in these portfolios are considered to be primarily driven by changes in market interest rates and other non-credit risks, such as call and liquidity risks. The estimated allowance for credit losses for the municipal debt securities held-to-maturity was deemed insignificant.

Corporate securities include investment grade corporate and bank subordinated debt securities. The Company evaluates credit risk through monitoring credit ratings, reviews of available issuer financial data, and sector trends. During 2024, the changes in fair value in corporate securities were considered to be primarily driven by changes in market interest rates and other non-credit risks, such as call and liquidity risks. There wasno allowance for credit losses recorded on corporate debt securities as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

During the first half of 2023, a provision for credit losses of $0.8 million was recognized, related to one bank subordinated debt security reflecting heightened potential credit risk following the failures of other banks in 2023. This heightened potential credit risk was later reduced after a merger announcement by the issuer of the bank subordinated debt security and a negative provision for credit losses of $0.8 million was recorded during the third quarter of 2023.

As of September 30, 2024, the Company did not intend to sell the debt securities that are in an unrealized loss position, and it was more likely than not that the Company would recover the amortized cost prior to being required to sell the debt securities.

Accrued interest on debt securities is excluded from the estimate of credit losses and totaled $5.0 million and $6.0 million as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

Sales of debt securities were as follows during the three and nine months ended September 30:

Equity Securities

Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in unrealized gains (losses) on equity securities on the consolidated statements of income. The Company has elected to measure equity securities with no readily determinable fair value at cost minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes for identical or similar securities of the same issuer.

The initial cost and carrying values of equity securities, with cumulative net unrealized gains and losses were as follows:

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the cumulative net unrealized losses on equity securities with no readily determinable fair value reflect impairments of $0.2 million and downward adjustments based on observable price changes of an identical investment of $0.2 million. There have beenno upward adjustments based on observable price changes to equity securities with no readily determinable fair value.

Unrealized gains (losses) on equity securities were as follows during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023:

NOTE 4 –LOANS AND RELATED ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

Major categories of loans are summarized as follows:

Allowance for Credit Losses

Management estimates the allowance for credit losses using relevant available information from internal and external sources, relating to past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The discounted cash flow method is used to estimate expected credit losses for all loan categories, except for consumer loans where the weighted average remaining maturity method is utilized.

At September 30, 2024, the economic forecast used by management anticipates an economic slowdown, but not a recession, over the next 4 quarters considered in the forecast period, with the unemployment rate increasing and GDP growth slowing and then increasing modestly. After the forecast period, the Company reverts to long-term averages over a 4-quarter reversion period. Additionally, management has made qualitative adjustments to the loss estimates to reflect other factors that influence credit losses.

The following tables detail activity in the allowance for credit losses:

Gross charge-offs, further sorted by origination year, were as follows during the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.

Gross charge-offs, further sorted by origination year, were as follows during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023.

The following tables present loans and the related allowance for credit losses by category:

The following tables present collateral dependent loans, by the primary collateral type, which are individually evaluated to determine expected credit losses, and the related allowance for credit losses allocated to these loans:

Accrued interest on loans is excluded from the estimate of credit losses and totaled $18.9 million and $18.4 million as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

Past Due and Nonaccrual Status

Past due status is based on the contractual terms of the loan. Typically, loans are placed on nonaccrual when they reach 90 days past due, or when, in management’s opinion, there is reasonable doubt regarding the collection of the amounts due through the normal means of the borrower. Interest accrued and unpaid at the time a loan is placed on nonaccrual status is reversed from interest income. Interest payments received on nonaccrual loans are recognized in accordance with our significant accounting policies. Once a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, the borrower must generally demonstrate at least six months of payment performance and we must believe that all remaining principal and interest is fully collectible, before the loan is eligible to return to accrual status.

The following tables present loans by category based on current payment and accrual status:

The following tables present nonaccrual loans with and without a related allowance for credit losses:

Credit Quality Indicators

In June 2024, the Company updated its risk rating categories to add a special mention category to provide another level of granularity in distinguishing risk levels of loans. As of June 30, 2024, $19.5 million of the special mention loans would have been considered pass-watch and $10.6 million would have been considered substandard under the previous risk rating categories.

The Company assigns a risk rating to all loans and periodically performs detailed internal reviews of all such loans that are part of relationships with over $750 thousand in total exposure to identify credit risks and to assess the overall collectability of the portfolio. These risk ratings are also subject to review by the Company’s regulators, external loan review, and internal loan review. During the internal reviews, management monitors and analyzes the financial condition of borrowers and guarantors, trends in the industries in which the borrowers operate and the fair values of collateral securing the loans. The risk rating is reviewed annually, at a minimum, and on an as needed basis depending on the specific circumstances of the loan. These credit quality indicators are used to assign a risk rating to each individual loan. Risk ratings are grouped into the following major categories:

Pass – a pass loan is a credit with no existing or known potential weaknesses deserving of management’s close attention.

Pass-Watch – a pass-watch loan is still considered a "pass" credit and is not a classified or criticized asset, but is a reflection of a borrower who exhibits credit weaknesses or downward trends warranting close attention and increased monitoring. These potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loan. No loss of principal or interest is expected, and the borrower does not pose sufficient risk to warrant a special mention, substandard, or doubtful classification.

Special Mention – a special mention loan has potential weaknesses that deserve management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the assets or in the institution's credit position at some future date. Special mention assets are not adversely classified and do not expose an institution to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification.

Substandard– a substandard loan is inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Assets so classified must have a well-defined weakness, or weaknesses, that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized as probable that the borrower will not pay principal and interest in accordance with the contractual terms.

Doubtful – a doubtful loan has all the weaknesses inherent in one classified as substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable. There wereno loans classified as Doubtful as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

The following tables present loans by category based on their assigned risk ratings determined by management:

Risk ratings of loans, further sorted by origination year, are as follows as of September 30, 2024:

Risk ratings of loans, further sorted by origination year, are as follows as of December 31, 2023:

Modifications

There wereno loan modifications to borrowers in financial distress during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023. There wereno modified loans to borrowers in financial distress outstanding as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Pledged Loans

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company pledged loans totaling $1.88 billion and $1.20 billion, respectively, to the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (“FHLB”) to secure available FHLB advance borrowing capacity.

NOTE 5 –LOAN SERVICING

Mortgage loans serviced for others, which are not included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, amounted to $1.58 billion and $1.66 billion as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. Activity in mortgage servicing rights was as follows:

NOTE 6 –FORECLOSED ASSETS

Foreclosed assets activity was as follows:

Gains (losses) on foreclosed assets included the following:

As of September 30, 2024, there were $0.2 million foreclosed one-to-four family residential real estate properties held. As of December 31, 2023, the carrying value of foreclosed one-to-four family residential real estate properties was $0.1 million.

As of September 30, 2024, there were 24 one-to-four family residential real estate loans in the process of foreclosure totaling $1.9 million. As of December 31, 2023, there were 16 one-to-four family residential real estate loans in the process of foreclosure totaling $1.2 million.

NOTE 7 –DEPOSITS

The Company’s deposits are summarized below:

Reciprocal deposits included in interest-bearing demand deposits, money market deposits, and time deposits totaled $214.2 million and $236.8 million as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The aggregate amounts of time deposits in denominations of $250 thousand or more amounted to $214.1 million and $130.2 million as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The aggregate amounts of time deposits in denominations of $100 thousand or more amounted to $472.7 million and $342.8 million as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

The components of interest expense on deposits were as follows:

NOTE 8 –DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Derivative financial instruments are negotiated contracts entered into by two issuing counterparties containing specific agreement terms, including the underlying instrument, amount, exercise price, and maturities. The derivatives accounting guidance requires that the Company recognize all derivative financial instruments as either assets or liabilities at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. The Company may utilize interest rate swap agreements as part of its asset liability management strategy to help manage its interest rate risk position.

Interest Rate Swaps Designated as Cash Flow Hedges

The Company designated certain interest rate swap agreements as cash flow hedges on variable-rate borrowings. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the gain or loss on interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax, is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings.

The interest rate swap agreements designated as cash flow hedges were as follows:

As of September 30, 2024, the interest rate swap agreement designated as a cash flow hedge matures in April 2025. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, counterparties had cash pledged and held on deposit by the Company of $0.4 million and $0.6 million, respectively.

The effect of interest rate swap agreements designated as cash flow hedges on the consolidated statements of income was as follows:

Interest Rate Swaps Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

The Company may offer interest rate swap agreements to its commercial borrowers in connection with their risk management needs. The Company manages the interest rate risk associated with these contracts by entering into an equal and offsetting derivative with a third-party financial institution. While these interest rate swap agreements generally work together as an economic interest rate hedge, the Company did not designate them for hedge accounting treatment. Consequently, changes in fair value of the corresponding derivative financial asset or liability were recorded as either a charge or credit to current earnings during the period in which the changes occurred.

The interest rate swap agreements not designated as hedging instruments were as follows:

As of September 30, 2024, the interest rate swap agreements not designated as hedging instruments had contractual maturities between 2027 and 2035.

The effect of interest rate contracts not designated as hedging instruments recognized in other noninterest income on the consolidated statements of income was as follows:

NOTE 9 –ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

The following table presents the activity and accumulated balances for components of other comprehensive income (loss):

Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities available-for-sale are included in either gains (losses) on sales of securities or provision for credit losses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for unrealized gains on debt securities held-to-maturity are included in securities interest income in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the fair value of derivative financial instruments represent net interest payments received or made on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges. See Note 8 for additional information.

NOTE 10 –EARNINGS PER SHARE

The Company previously granted restricted stock units that contained non-forfeitable rights to dividend equivalents which were considered participating securities. Prior to 2024, these restricted stock units were included in the calculation of basic earnings per share using the two-class method. The two-class method of computing earnings per share is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for each class of common stock and participating security according to dividends declared (or accumulated) and participation rights in undistributed earnings.

Diluted earnings per share is computed using the treasury stock method and reflects the potential dilution from the Company’s outstanding restricted stock units and performance restricted stock units.

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

NOTE 11 –STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS

The Company has adopted the HBT Financial, Inc. Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “Omnibus Incentive Plan”). The Omnibus Incentive Plan provides for grants of (i) stock options, (ii) stock appreciation rights, (iii) restricted shares, (iv) restricted stock units, (v) performance awards, (vi) other share-based awards and (vii) other cash-based awards to eligible employees, non-employee directors and consultants of the Company. The maximum number of shares of common stock available for issuance under the Omnibus Incentive Plan is 1,820,000 shares.

The following is a summary of stock-based compensation expense (benefit):

Restricted Stock Units

A restricted stock unit grants a participant the right to receiveone share of the Company’s common stock, following the completion of the requisite service period. Restricted stock units are classified as equity. Compensation cost is based on the Company’s stock price on the grant date and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the service period for the entire award. Dividend equivalents on restricted stock units, which are either accrued until vested, are classified as dividends charged to retained earnings.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the total grant date fair value of the restricted stock units granted was $1.0 million and $1.0 million, respectively, based on the grant date closing prices. The total intrinsic value of restricted stock units that vested during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 was $1.4 million and $1.1 million, respectively.

The following is a summary of restricted stock unit activity:

As of September 30, 2024, unrecognized compensation cost related to the non-vested restricted stock units was $1.1 million. This cost is expected to be recognized over the weighted average remaining service period of 1.6 years.

Performance Restricted Stock Units

A performance restricted stock unit is similar to a restricted stock unit, except that the number of shares of the Company’s common stock awarded is based on a performance condition and the completion of the requisite service period. The number of shares of the Company’s common stock that may be earned ranges from 0% to 150% of the number of performance restricted stock units granted. Performance restricted stock units are classified as equity. Compensation cost is based on the Company’s stock price on the grant date and an assessment of the probable outcome of the performance condition. Compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the service period of the entire award. Changes in the performance condition probability assessment result in cumulative catch-up adjustments to the compensation cost recognized. Dividend equivalents on performance restricted stock units, which are accrued until vested, are classified as dividends charged to retained earnings.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, the total fair value of the performance restricted stock units granted was $0.4 million and $0.4 million, respectively, based on the grant date closing prices and an assessment of the probable outcome of the performance condition on the grant date. The total intrinsic value of performance restricted stock units that vested during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $0.8 million.

The following is a summary of performance restricted stock unit activity:

As of September 30, 2024, unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested performance restricted stock units was $0.4 million, based on the current assessment of the probable outcome of the performance conditions. This cost is expected to be recognized over the weighted average remaining service period of 1.3 years.

Stock Appreciation Rights

A stock appreciation right grants a participant the right to receive an amount of cash, the value of which equals the appreciation in the Company’s stock price between the grant date and the exercise date. Stock appreciation rights are classified as liabilities. The liability is based on an option-pricing model used to estimate the fair value of the stock appreciation rights. Compensation cost for non-vested stock appreciation rights is recognized on a straight line basis over the service period of the entire award.

The following is a summary of stock appreciation rights activity:

As of September 30, 2024, all stock appreciation rights were exercisable and had a weighted average remaining term of 4.6 years. There wasno unrecognized compensation cost for stock appreciation rights as of September 30, 2024.

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the liability recorded for outstanding stock appreciation rights was $0.6 million and $0.6 million, respectively. The Company uses an option pricing model to value the stock appreciation rights, using the assumptions in the following table. Expected volatility is derived from the historical volatility of the Company’s stock price and a selected peer group of industry-related companies.

As of December 31, 2023, the liability recorded for previously exercised stock appreciation rights was $0.2 million which was paid in 2024.

NOTE 12 –REGULATORY CAPITAL

The Company (on a consolidated basis) and the Bank are each subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal and state banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary, actions by the regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the consolidated financial statements of the Company and the Bank. Additionally, the ability of the Company to pay dividends to its stockholders is dependent upon the ability of the Bank to pay dividends to the Company.

Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company and the Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors. As allowed under the regulations, the Company and the Bank elected to exclude accumulated other comprehensive income, including unrealized gains and losses on debt securities, in the computation of regulatory capital. Prompt corrective action provisions are not applicable to bank holding companies.

Additionally, the Company and the Bank must maintain a “capital conservation buffer” to avoid becoming subject to restrictions on capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments to management. The capital conservation buffer is 2.5% of risk-weighted assets.

As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company and the Bank each met all capital adequacy requirements to which they were subject. The actual and required capital amounts and ratios of the Company (on a consolidated basis) and the Bank were as follows:

NOTE 13 –FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair values:

Level 1 - Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the Company has the ability to access as of the measurement date.

Level 2 - Significant observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

Level 3 - Significant unobservable inputs that reflect a Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing as asset or liability.

The Company uses fair value to measure certain assets and liabilities on a recurring basis, such as investment securities, mortgage servicing rights, and derivatives. For assets measured at the lower of cost or fair value, the fair value measurement criteria may or may not be met during a reporting period, and such measurements are therefore considered "nonrecurring" for purposes of disclosing the Company's fair value measurements. Fair value is used on a nonrecurring basis to adjust carrying values for loans held for sale, collateral-dependent loans, bank premises held for sale, and foreclosed assets.

Recurring Basis

The following is a description of the methods and significant assumptions used to measure the fair value of assets and liabilities on a recurring basis.

Investment Securities

When available, the Company uses quoted market prices to determine the fair value of securities; such items are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. For the Company’s securities where quoted prices are not available for identical securities in an active market, the Company determines fair value utilizing vendors who apply matrix pricing for similar bonds where no price is observable or may compile prices from various sources. These models are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including time value, yield curve, volatility factors, prepayment speeds, default rates, loss severity, current market and contractual prices for the underlying financial instruments, as well as other relevant economic measures. Substantially all of these assumptions are observable in the marketplace. Fair values from these models are verified, where possible, against quoted market prices for recent trading activity of assets with similar characteristics to the security being valued. Such methods are generally classified as Level 2; however, when prices from independent sources vary, cannot be obtained or cannot be corroborated, a security is generally classified as Level 3. The change in fair value of debt securities available-for-sale is recorded through an adjustment to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. The change in fair value of equity securities with readily determinable fair values is recorded through an adjustment to the consolidated statement of income.

Mortgage Servicing Rights

The Company has elected to record its mortgage servicing rights at fair value. Mortgage servicing rights do not trade in an active market with readily observable prices. Accordingly, the Company determines the fair value of mortgage servicing rights by estimating the fair value of the future cash flows associated with the mortgage loans being serviced as calculated by an independent third party. Key economic assumptions used in measuring the fair value of mortgage servicing rights include, but are not limited to, prepayment speeds and discount rates. Due to the nature of the valuation inputs, mortgage servicing rights are classified as Level 3. The change in fair value is recorded through an adjustment to the consolidated statement of income.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Interest rate swap agreements are carried at fair value as determined by dealer valuation models. Based on the inputs used, the derivative financial instruments subjected to recurring fair value adjustments are classified as Level 2. For derivative financial instruments designated as hedging instruments, the change in fair value is recorded through an adjustment to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. For derivative financial instruments not designated as hedging instruments, the change in fair value is recorded through an adjustment to the consolidated statement of income.

The following tables summarize assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 by level within the fair value hierarchy:

The following tables present additional information about the unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the mortgage servicing rights (dollars in thousands):

Nonrecurring Basis

The following is a description of the methods and significant assumptions used to measure the fair value of assets and liabilities on a nonrecurring basis.

Loans Held for Sale

Mortgage loans originated and held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value. The Company obtains quotes or bids on these loans directly from purchasing financial institutions. Typically, these quotes include a premium on the sale and thus these quotes generally indicate fair value of the held for sale loans is greater than cost. Loans held for sale have been classified as Level 2.

Collateral-Dependent Loans

Periodically, a collateral-dependent loan is evaluated individually and is reported at the fair value of the underlying collateral, less estimated costs to sell, if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. If the collateral value is not sufficient, a specific reserve is recorded. Collateral values are estimated using recent appraisals and customized discounting criteria. Due to the significance of unobservable inputs, fair values of collateral-dependent loans have been classified as Level 3.

Bank Premises Held for Sale

Bank premises held for sale are recorded at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs, at the date classified as held for sale. Values are estimated using recent appraisals and customized discounting criteria. Due to the significance of unobservable inputs, fair values of collateral-dependent loans have been classified as Level 3.

Foreclosed Assets

Foreclosed assets are recorded at fair value based on property appraisals, less estimated selling costs, at the date of the transfer. Subsequent to the transfer, foreclosed assets are carried at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs. Values are estimated using recent appraisals and customized discounting criteria. Due to the significance of unobservable inputs, fair values of collateral-dependent loans have been classified as Level 3.

The following tables summarize assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 by level within the fair value hierarchy:

The following tables present quantitative information about unobservable inputs used in nonrecurring Level 3 fair value measurements (dollars in thousands):

Other Fair Value Methods

The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating fair value disclosures of its other financial instruments.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The carrying amounts of these financial instruments approximate their fair values.

Restricted Stock

The carrying amount of FHLB stock approximates fair value based on the redemption provisions of the FHLB.

Loans

The fair value estimation process for the loan portfolio uses an exit price concept and reflects discounts the Company believes are consistent with discounts in the marketplace. Fair values are estimated for portfolios of loans with similar characteristics. Loans are segregated by type such as commercial and industrial, agricultural and farmland, commercial real estate – owner occupied, commercial real estate – non-owner occupied, multi-family, construction and land development, one-to-four family residential, and municipal, consumer, and other. The fair value of loans is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using the current rates at which similar loans would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings and for similar maturities. The fair value analysis also includes other assumptions to estimate fair value, intended to approximate those a market participant would use in an orderly transaction, with adjustments for discount rates, interest rates, liquidity, and credit spreads, as appropriate.

Investments in Unconsolidated Subsidiaries

The fair values of the Company’s investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries are presumed to approximate carrying amounts.

Time and Brokered Time Deposits

Fair values of certificates of deposit with stated maturities have been estimated using the present value of estimated future cash flows discounted at rates currently offered for similar instruments. Time deposits also include public funds time deposits.

Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase

The fair values of repurchase agreements with variable interest rates are presumed to approximate their recorded carrying amounts.

FHLB Advances

The fair values of FHLB advances are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on current rates offered for borrowings with similar remaining maturities and characteristics.

Subordinated Notes

The fair values of subordinated notes are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on rates observed on recent debt issuances by other financial institutions.

Junior Subordinated Debentures

The fair values of subordinated debentures are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on rates observed on recent debt issuances by other financial institutions.

Accrued Interest

The carrying amounts of accrued interest approximate fair value.

The following table provides summary information on the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s other financial instruments:

The Company estimated the fair value of lending related commitments as described in Note 14 to be immaterial based on limited interest rate exposure due to their variable nature, short-term commitment periods, and termination clauses provided in the agreements.

Limitations

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. Because no market exists for a significant portion of the Company’s financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

Fair values have been estimated using data which management considered the best available and estimation methodologies deemed suitable for the pertinent category of financial instrument.

NOTE 14 –COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Financial Instruments

The Bank is party to credit-related financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. Such instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets.

The Bank’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Bank uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet instruments.

Such commitments and conditional obligations were as follows:

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Bank evaluates each customer’s credit worthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary, by the Bank upon extension of credit is based on management’s credit evaluation of the customer. Collateral held varies, but may include real estate, accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant, and equipment, and income-producing properties.

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Bank to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Those standby letters of credit are primarily issued to support extensions of credit. The credit risk involved in issuing standby letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loans to customers. The Bank secures the standby letters of credit with the same collateral used to secure the related loan.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Unfunded Lending-related Commitments

The Company estimates expected credit losses over the contractual period in which the Company is exposed to credit risk via a contractual obligation to extend credit, unless that obligation is unconditionally cancelable by the Company. The allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments is included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets and is adjusted through a charge to provision for credit loss expense on the consolidated statements of income. The allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments estimate includes consideration of the likelihood that funding will occur and an estimate of expected credit losses on commitments expected to be funded over its estimated life. The allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments was $4.1 million and $3.8 million as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

Legal Contingencies

In the normal course of business, the Company, or its subsidiaries, are involved in various legal proceedings. In the opinion of management, any liability resulting from pending proceedings would not be expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

DeBaere, et al v. Heartland Bank and Trust Company

The Bank was a defendant in a purported class action lawsuit filed in June 2020, in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois. The plaintiff, a customer of the Bank, alleges that the Bank breached its contract with the plaintiff by (1) charging multiple insufficient funds fees or overdraft fees on a single customer-initiated transaction, and (2) charging overdraft fees for transactions that were authorized on a positive account balance, but when settled, settled into a negative balance.

Miller, et al v. State Bank of Lincoln and Heartland Bank and Trust Company

The Bank was a defendant in a purported class action lawsuit filed in May 2020, in the Circuit Court of Logan County, Illinois. The plaintiff, a customer of State Bank of Lincoln, which previously merged with the Bank, alleges that the Bank breached its contract with the plaintiff by charging multiple insufficient funds fees or overdraft fees on a single customer-initiated transaction.

On May 15, 2023, the Bank reached an agreement in principle to settle both the DeBaere, et al and Miller, et al cases in which the Bank would make one-time cash payments totaling $3.4 million, without admitting fault, to release the Bank from further liability and claims in both the cases.

Definitive settlement agreements reflecting the terms of the agreement in principle were approved by the Court on December 15, 2023 in the DeBaere, et al case and on February 16, 2024 in the Miller, et al case. The Bank made the one-time cash payments totaling $3.4 million during the fourth quarter of 2023. The settlements do not include any admission of liability or wrongdoing by the Bank, and the Bank expressly denies any liability or wrongdoing with respect to any matter alleged in the Class Action and Receiver’s Action. The Bank agreed to the settlements to avoid the cost, risks and distraction of continued litigation. The Company believes the settlements are in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders.

An initial $2.6 million accrual was recognized in other noninterest expense during the fourth quarter of 2022, reflecting management’s best estimate at that time, and an additional $0.8 million accrual was recognized in other noninterest expense during the second quarter of 2023, following the agreement in principle to settle both the DeBaere, et al and Miller, et al cases.

John Pickett v. Town and Country Bank

The Bank is a defendant in a purported class action lawsuit filed in October 2023, in the Circuit Court of Sangamon County, Illinois. The plaintiff, a customer of Town and Country Bank, which previously merged with the Bank, alleges that the Bank breached its contract with the plaintiff by charging overdraft fees for transactions that were authorized on a positive account balance, but when settled, settled into a negative balance.

On March 29, 2024, the Bank reached an agreement in principle to settle this case in which the Bank would make a one-time cash payment of $0.3 million, without admitting fault, to release the Bank from further liability and claims in the case.

A definitive settlement agreement reflecting the terms of the agreement in principle was approved by the Court on July 9, 2024. The Bank made the one-time cash payment of $0.3 million during the third quarter of 2024. The settlement does not include any admission of liability or wrongdoing by the Bank, and the Bank expressly denies any liability or wrongdoing with respect to any matter alleged in the case. The Bank has agreed to the settlement to avoid the cost, risks, and distraction of continued litigation. The Company believes the settlement is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders.

An initial accrual of $0.2 million was recorded during the fourth quarter of 2023, reflecting management's best estimate at that time, and an additional $0.1 million accrual was recorded during the first quarter of 2024. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $0.2 million accrued related to this matter.

Heartland Bank and Trust Company v. Meadows Mennonite Retirement Community Association, Inc.

This lawsuit arises out of a suit filed in the Circuit Court of Woodford County, Illinois, (the "Trial Court") by the Bank for breach of a note and commercial security agreement. The defendant, Meadows Mennonite Retirement Community Association, Inc. ("Meadows"), a beneficiary of a trust for which Bank was trustee, filed a counterclaim for rescission of the note seeking compensatory and punitive damages, including attorneys’ fees. In September 2024, the Appellate Court of Illinois Fourth District (the "Appellate Court") entered an order directing that summary judgment should be entered in favor of Meadows and against the Bank, rescinding the note and commercial security agreement. The Appellate Court remanded the case to the Trial Court which will now determine Meadows' compensatory and punitive damages, including reasonable attorneys’ fees.

The Bank intends to vigorously defend the lawsuit. However, the Company believes an unfavorable outcome is reasonably possible at this time, as that term is used in assessing loss contingencies. The Company is unable to predict when the matter will be resolved or potential costs or damages to be incurred.