Western New England Bancorp Inc
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Mar 10, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Mar 10, 2025
WNEB$13.69+0.1%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026
What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-03-08.
0001999371-24-003319
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-03-10.
0001839882-25-014778
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 112 previous paragraphs and 142 current paragraphs.
63 unchanged; 39 reworded; 40 added; 9 removed; 1 previous and 0 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 25 previous and 55 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (40)
Current report
(1) Securities and loan income and net interest income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 21% for 2024, 2023 and 2022. The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest income to agree to the amount reported in the consolidated statements of net income. See “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements.”
Current report
At December 31, 2024, total loans increased by $42.9 million, or 2.1%, from December 31, 2023, to $2.1 billion. The increase in total loans was due to an increase in residential real estate loans, including home equity loans, of $53.5 million, or 7.4%, partially offset by a decrease in commercial real estate loans of $4.0 million, or 0.4%, a decrease in commercial and industrial loans of $5.7 million, or 2.7% and a decrease in consumer loans of $1.1 million, or 19.8%.
Current report
Management continues to closely monitor the loan portfolio for any signs of deterioration in borrowers’ financial condition and also in light of speculation that commercial real estate values may deteriorate as the market continues to adjust to higher vacancies and interest rates. We continue to proactively take steps to mitigate risk in our loan portfolio.
Current report
Total delinquency was $5.0 million, or 0.24% of total loans, at December 31, 2024, compared to $6.0 million, or 0.30% of total loans at December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2024, nonperforming loans totaled $5.4 million, or 0.26% of total loans, compared to $6.4 million, or 0.32% of total loans, at December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, there were no loans 90 or more days past due and still accruing interest. Total nonperforming assets totaled $5.4 million, or 0.20% of total assets, at December 31, 2024, compared to $6.4 million, or 0.25% of total assets, at December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company did not have any other real estate owned. At December 31, 2024, the allowance for credit losses was $19.5 million, or 0.94% of total loans and 362.9% of nonperforming loans, compared to $20.3 million, or 1.00% of total loans and 315.6% of nonperforming loans, at December 31, 2023. Total criticized loans, defined as special mention and substandard loans, decreased $1.1 million, or 2.8%, from $39.5 million, or 1.9% of total loans, at December 31, 2023 to $38.4 million, or 1.9% of total loans, at December 31, 2024. A summary of our past due and nonperforming loans by class is listed in Note 5 of the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements.
Current report
Our commercial real estate portfolio is comprised of diversified property types and primarily within our geographic footprint. At December 31, 2024, the commercial real estate portfolio totaled $1.1 billion, and represented 52.0% of total loans. Of the $1.1 billion, $880.8 million, or 81.9%, was categorized as non-owner occupied commercial real estate and represented 325.2% of the bank’s total risk-based capital.
Current report
The Company’s commercial real estate loans are considered to be relatively diversified by borrower, industry and concentrated in the New England geographical area. A significant portion of the loan portfolio consists of commercial real estate loans, primarily made in Massachusetts, and to a lesser degree, Connecticut, and secured by real estate or other collateral in the market. Although these loans are made to a diversified pool of unrelated borrowers across numerous businesses, adverse developments in the local real estate market could have an adverse impact on this portfolio of loans and the Company’s income and financial position. While our basic market area is in Massachusetts, the Company has made loans outside that market area where the applicant is an existing customer, and the nature and quality of such loans was consistent with the Company’s lending policies.
Current report
We continuously monitor the asset quality of our loan portfolio. For the commercial portfolio, we monitor credit quality using a risk rating scale, which assigns a risk-grade to each borrower based on a number of quantitative and qualitative factors associated with a commercial loan transaction. Management utilizes a loan risk rating methodology based on an 8-point scale. Pass grades are 0-4 and non-pass categories, which align with regulatory guidelines, include: special mention (5), substandard (6), doubtful (7) and loss (8). Risk rating assignment is determined by analyzing key factors, which may include: industry and market conditions, position within the industry, earnings trends, operating cash flow, debt capacity, guarantor strength, management, financial reporting, collateral and other considerations.
Current report
CRE Concentrations.
Current report
The OCC, the FRB, and the FDIC (“Agencies”)issued guidance in 2006 which addresses institutions with increased concentrations of commercial real estate (“CRE”) loans. The guidance does not establish specific CRE lending limits; rather, it promotes sound risk management practices and appropriate levels of capital that will enable institutions to continue to pursue CRE lending in a safe and sound manner. In developing this guidance, the Agencies recognized that different types of CRE lending present different levels of risk, and that consideration should be given to the lower risk profiles and historically superior performance of certain types of CRE, such as well-structured multifamily housing finance, when compared to others, such as speculative office space construction.
Current report
Institutions are encouraged to segment their CRE portfolios to acknowledge these distinctions for risk management purposes. The guidance focuses on those CRE loans for which the cash flow from the real estate is the primary source of repayment rather than loans to a borrower for which real estate collateral is taken as a secondary source of repayment or through an abundance of caution. Thus, for the purposes of the guidance, CRE loans include those loans with risk profiles sensitive to the condition of the general CRE market (for example, market demand, changes in capitalization rates, vacancy rates, or rents). CRE loans are land development and construction loans (including 1- to 4-family residential and commercial construction loans) and other land loans. CRE loans also include loans secured by multifamily property, and nonfarm nonresidential property where the primary source of repayment is derived from rental income associated with the property (that is, loans for which 50 percent or more of the source of repayment comes from third party, nonaffiliated, rental income) or the proceeds of the sale, refinancing, or permanent financing of the property. Excluded from the scope of this Guidance are loans secured by nonfarm nonresidential properties where the primary source of repayment is the cashflow from the ongoing operations and activities conducted by the party, or affiliate of the party, who owns the property.
Current report
As part of their ongoing supervisory monitoring processes, the Agencies use certain criteria to identify institutions that are potentially exposed to significant CRE concentration risk. An institution that has experienced rapid growth in CRE lending, has notable exposure to a specific type of CRE, or is approaching or exceeds the following supervisory criteria may be identified for further supervisory analysis of the level and nature of its CRE concentration risk:
Current report
Total reported loans for construction, land development, and other land represent 100 percent or more of the institution’s total risk-based capital; or
Current report
Total commercial real estate loans as defined in this guidance represent 300 percent or more of the institution’s total risk-based capital, and the outstanding balance of the institution’s commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased by 50 percent or more during the prior 36 months.
Current report
The Agencies use the criteria as a preliminary step to identify institutions that may have CRE concentration risk. Because regulatory reports capture a broad range of CRE loans with varying risk characteristics, the supervisory monitoring criteria do not constitute limits on an institution’s lending activity but rather serve as high-level indicators to identify institutions potentially exposed to CRE concentration risk.
Current report
The Company holds a concentration in commercial real estate loans. As of December 31, 2024, construction, land development and other land loans represented 37.9% of consolidated bank risk-based capital. During the prior 36 months, the Company has experienced an increase in its commercial real estate portfolio of 16.1%.
Current report
The management team has extensive experience in underwriting commercial real estate loans and has implemented and continues to maintain heightened risk management procedures and strong underwriting criteria with respect to its commercial real estate portfolio. The Board has established internal maximum limits on CRE as an asset class overall as well as sub limits within CRE by property class, to better manage and control the exposure to property classes during periods of changing economic conditions. The Board also has minimum targets for regulatory capital ratios that are in excess of well capitalized ratios.
Current report
Our risk management process begins with a robust underwriting program. The underwriting and risk rating of all loans is completed by the Company’s Credit Department that is independent of the originating lender(s).
Current report
At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, non-owner and owner occupied commercial real estate loans, totaled $1.1 billion, or 52.0%, of total gross loans, and $1.1 billion, or 53.3%, of total gross loans, respectively.
Current report
The table below breaks down the commercial real estate portfolio outstanding balance by non-owner and owner occupied and by concentration as of December 31, 2024:
Current report
The table below breaks down the commercial real estate portfolio outstanding balance by non-owner and owner occupied and by concentration as of December 31, 2023:
Current report
At December 31, 2024, of the $1.1 billion in commercial real estate loans, $880.8 million, or 42.6% of total loans, were categorized as non-owner occupied and represented 325.2% of total bank risk-based capital.
Current report
The following table further breaks down the non-owner occupied commercial real estate portfolio balances by concentration, collateral location and weighted average loan-to-value (“LTV”) as of December 31, 2024:
Current report
At December 31, 2023, of the $1.1 billion in commercial real estate loans, $881.7 million, or 43.5% of total loans, was categorized as non-owner occupied and represented 324.8% of total risk-based capital.
Current report
The following table further breaks down the non-owner occupied commercial real estate portfolio balances by concentration, collateral location and weighted average LTV as of December 31, 2023.
Current report
The Company also underwrites and originates owner occupied commercial real estate loans. These loans are typically term loans made to support properties that rely upon the operations of the business occupying the property for repayment. The Agencies specifically excluded owner occupied commercial real estate from their concentration guidance, as the primary source of repayment is the cash flow from the ongoing operations and activities conducted by the party, or affiliate of the party, who owns the property.
Current report
The table below depicts a well-diversified portfolio of owner occupied commercial real estate portfolio as of December 31, 2024:
Current report
The table below depicts a well-diversified portfolio of owner occupied commercial real estate as of December 31, 2023:
Current report
Commercial Real Estate Office Exposure.
Current report
Our total office-related commercial real estate loans (which is comprised of loans within our commercial real estate portfolio that are secured by office space, medical office space, and mixed-use where rental income is primarily from office space) totaled $200.1 million, or 73.9% of total bank risk-based capital and $216.2 million, or 79.6% of total bank risk-based capital, as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.
Current report
The table below breaks the office-related commercial real estate loans by collateral type for the periods noted:
Current report
Office-related CRE loans are primarily concentrated in Massachusetts, where approximately 41.5% at December 31, 2024 and 43.9%, at December 31, 2023, of the total balance of office-related CRE loans are located. The Company does not have office CRE loans secured by real estate in greater Boston or New York.
Current report
The following table sets forth the office-related CRE loans for non-owner occupied and owner occupied CRE and their credit quality indicators as of the dates indicated:
Current report
Given prevailing market conditions such as recent sustained increases in interest rates, reduced occupancy as a result of the increase in hybrid work arrangements post-COVID, and lower commercial real estate valuations, we carefully monitor these loans for signs of deterioration in credit quality and other risks. Such heightened monitoring includes incremental risk management strategies undertaken by management, including more frequent portfolio reviews, ongoing monitoring of market conditions, and additional portfolio analysis, which may include monitoring concentration limitations, including concentrations by loan type, property type, geographic area and with participants, where applicable, and risk diversification, tracking aggregated policy and underwriting exceptions and stress testing the loan portfolios.
Current report
BOLI.
Current report
At December 31, 2024, total deposits increased $118.9 million, or 5.6%, from $2.1 billion at December 31, 2023 to $2.3 billion. Core deposits, which the Company defines as all deposits except time deposits, increased $26.7 million, or 1.7%, from $1.5 billion, or 71.5% of total deposits, at December 31, 2023, to $1.6 billion, or 68.9% of total deposits, at December 31, 2024. Non-interest-bearing deposits decreased $14.0 million, or 2.4%, to $565.6 million, and represent 25.0% of total deposits, money market accounts increased $27.1 million, or 4.3%, to $661.5 million, savings accounts decreased $5.8 million, or 3.1%, to $181.6 million and interest-bearing checking accounts increased $19.3 million, or 14.7%, to $150.3 million.
Current report
Time deposits increased $92.2 million, or 15.1%, from $611.4 million at December 31, 2023 to $703.6 million at December 31, 2024. Brokered time deposits, which are included in time deposits, totaled $1.7 million at December 31, 2024 and at December 31, 2023. The Company has experienced growth and movement in both money market accounts and time deposits as a result of relationship pricing, the current interest rate environment, and customer behaviors, as opposed to time deposit specials or interest rate adjustments. We continue our disciplined and focused approach to core relationship management and customer outreach to meet funding requirements and liquidity needs, with an emphasis on retaining a long-term customer relationship base by competing for and retaining deposits in our local market. At December 31, 2024, the Bank’s uninsured deposits represented 28.4% of total deposits, compared to 26.8% at December 31, 2023.
Current report
The Company utilized the BTFP, which was created in March 2023 to enhance banking system liquidity by allowing institutions to pledge certain securities at par value and borrow at a rate of ten basis points over the one-year overnight index swap rate. The BTFP was available to federally insured depository institutions in the U.S., with advances having a term of up to one year with no prepayment penalties. The BTFP ceased extending new advances in March 2024. At December 31, 2023, the Company’s outstanding balance under the BTFP was $90.0 million. There was no outstanding balance under the BTFP at December 31, 2024.
Current report
As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $464.1 million of additional borrowing capacity at the Federal Home Loan Bank, $382.9 million of additional borrowing capacity under the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window and $25.0 million of other unsecured lines of credit with correspondent banks.
Current report
The decrease in the provision for credit losses was primarily due to changes in the loan mix as well as economic environment and related adjustments to the quantitative components of the CECL methodology. The provision for credit losses was determined by a number of factors: the continued strong credit performance of the Company’s loan portfolio, changes in the loan portfolio mix and Management’s consideration of existing economic conditions and the economic outlook from the Federal Reserve’s actions to control inflation. Management continues to monitor macroeconomic variables related to increasing interest rates, inflation and the concerns of an economic downturn, and believes it is appropriately reserved for the current economic environment.
Current report
During the same period, salaries and related benefits increased $472,000, or 1.5%, software expenses increased $208,000, or 9.0%, data processing expense increased $320,000, or 10.1%, debit card processing and ATM network costs increased $298,000, or 13.9%, occupancy expense increased $146,000, or 3.0%, due to higher repair and maintenance costs, real estate taxes, and depreciation expense. FDIC insurance expense increased $139,000, or 10.5%. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in professional fees of $571,000, or 20.9%, which is comprised of legal fees, audit and other professional fees. During the three months ended December 31, 2023, professional fees included legal fees related to the settlement of the purported class action lawsuits. Advertising expense decreased $226,000, or 15.1%, and other non-interest expense, excluding the $510,000 legal settlement accrual, decreased $199,000, or 3.5%.
Removed paragraphs (9)
Previous report
The process of evaluating the loan portfolio, classifying loans and determining the allowance and provision is described in detail in Part I under*“Business – Lending Activities - Allowance for Credit Losses.”* On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, as amended, which replaces the incurred loss methodology with an expected loss methodology that is referred to as CECL methodology. The measurement of expected credit losses under the CECL methodology is applicable to financial assets measured at amortized cost, including loan receivables and HTM debt securities. In addition, ASC 326 made changes to the accounting for AFS debt securities.
Previous report
The Company adopted ASC 326 using the modified retrospective method for all financial assets measured at amortized cost and off-balance sheet credit exposures. Results for reporting periods beginning January 1, 2023 are presented under ASC 326 while prior period amounts continue to be reported in accordance with previously applicable GAAP. The Company recorded a net increase to retained earnings of $9,000 as of January 1, 2023 for the cumulative effect of adopting ASC 326, which includes a net deferred tax liability of $4,000. The transition adjustment includes a $1.2 million increase to the allowance for credit losses and the recording of a $918,000 allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures.
Previous report
At December 31, 2023, total loans increased $35.9 million, or 1.8%, to $2.0 billion from December 31, 2022. Residential real estate loans, including home equity loans, increased $27.1 million, or 3.9%, commercial real estate loans increased $10.4 million, or 1.0%, and commercial and industrial loans decreased $2.4 million, or 1.1%.
Previous report
Bank-Owned Life Insurance ("BOLI").
Previous report
At December 31, 2023, total deposits decreased $85.7 million, or 3.8%, from December 31, 2022, to $2.1 billion at December 31, 2023, due to industry-wide pressures and a competitive market for deposits. Core deposits, which the Company defines as all deposits except time deposits, decreased $285.4 million, or 15.7%, from $1.8 billion, or 81.5% of total deposits, at December 31, 2022, to $1.5 billion, or 71.5% of total deposits, at December 31, 2023. Money market accounts decreased $166.7 million, or 20.8%, to $634.4 million, non-interest-bearing deposits decreased $65.9 million, or 10.2%, to $579.6 million, savings accounts decreased $35.0 million, or 15.7%, to $187.4 million and interest-bearing checking accounts decreased $17.7 million, or 11.9%, to $131.0 million. Time deposits increased $199.7 million, or 48.5%, from $411.7 million at December 31, 2022 to $611.4 million at December 31, 2023. Brokered time deposits, which are included in time deposits, totaled $1.7 million at December 31, 2023. The Company did not have any brokered deposits at December 31, 2022. At December 31, 2023, the Bank’s uninsured deposits represented 26.8% of total deposits, compared to 30.8% at December 31, 2022.
Previous report
Pension Plan.
Previous report
The Board of Directors previously announced the termination of the Westfield Bank Defined Benefit Plan (the “DB Plan”) on October 31, 2022, subject to required regulatory approval. At December 31, 2022, the Company reversed $7.3 million in net unrealized losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income attributed to both the DB Plan curtailment resulting from the termination of the DB Plan as well as changes in discount rates. In addition, during the three months ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded a gain on curtailment of $2.8 million through non-interest income. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company made an additional cash contribution of $1.3 million in order to fully fund the DB Plan on a plan termination basis. In addition, for those participants who did not opt for a one-time lump sum payment, the Company funded $6.3 million to purchase a group annuity contract to transfer its remaining liabilities under the DB Plan. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company recognized the final termination expense of $1.1 million related to the DB Plan termination, which was recorded through non-interest income.
Previous report
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $872,000 under the CECL model, compared to a provision for credit losses of $700,000 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 under the incurred loss model. The increase in reserves was primarily due to changes in the economic environment and related adjustments to the quantitative components of the CECL methodology.
Previous report
During the same period, FDIC insurance expense increased $273,000, or 26.0%, data processing increased $272,000, or 9.4%, professional fees, which is comprised of legal fees, audit and professional fees, increased $161,000, or 5.9%, due to the recent settlement of litigation, and advertising expense increased $87,000, or 6.2%. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in salaries and employee benefits of $483,000, or 1.5%, due to lower incentive compensation costs, occupancy expense decreased $76,000, or 1.5%, and furniture and equipment expense decreased $72,000, or 3.6%.
Reworded paragraphs (39)
Previous wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, net income was $15.1 million, or $0.70 diluted earnings per share, compared to net income of $25.9 million, or $1.18 diluted earnings per share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The results for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 showed decreases in net interest income and non-interest income, as well as increases in non-interest expense and the provision for credit losses.
Current wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, net income was $11.7 million, or $0.56 diluted earnings per share, compared to net income of $15.1 million, or $0.70 diluted earnings per share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The results for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 showed decreases in net interest income and the provision for credit losses, as well as increases in non-interest income and non-interest expense.
Previous wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, net interest income decreased $11.3 million, or 14.3%, to $67.9 million, compared to $79.2 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in net interest income was due to an increase in interest expense of $26.5 million, partially offset by an increase in interest and dividend income of $15.2 million, or 17.7%.
Current wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, net interest income decreased $8.1 million, or 11.9%, to $59.8 million, compared to $67.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in net interest income was primarily due to an increase in interest expense of $16.8 million, or 50.6%, partially offset by an increase in interest and dividend income of $8.7 million, or 8.6%.
Previous wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $872,000 under the CECL model, compared to a provision for credit losses of $700,000 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 under the incurred loss model. The increase in reserves was primarily due to changes in the economic environment and related adjustments to the quantitative components of the CECL methodology.
Current wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the Company recorded a reversal of credit losses of $665,000, compared to a provision for credit losses of $872,000 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in reserves was primarily due to changes in the economic environment and related adjustments to the quantitative components of the CECL methodology.
Previous wording
Our consolidated results of operations depend primarily on net interest and dividend income. Net interest and dividend income is the difference between the interest income earned on interest-earning assets and the interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Interest-earning assets consist primarily of commercial real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans, residential real estate loans and securities. Interest-bearing liabilities consist primarily of time deposits and money market accounts, demand deposits, savings accounts and borrowings from the FHLB. The consolidated results of operations also depend on the provision for loan losses, non-interest income, and non-interest expense. Non-interest income includes service fees and charges, income on bank-owned life insurance, gains on sales of mortgages, gains on non-marketable equity investments and gains (losses) on securities. Non-interest expense includes salaries and employee benefits, occupancy expenses, data processing, advertising expense, FDIC insurance assessment, professional fees and other general and administrative expenses.
Current wording
Our consolidated results of operations depend primarily on net interest and dividend income. Net interest and dividend income is the difference between the interest income earned on interest-earning assets and the interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Interest-earning assets consist primarily of commercial real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans, residential real estate loans and securities. Interest-bearing liabilities consist primarily of time deposits and money market accounts, demand deposits, savings accounts and borrowings from the FHLB. The consolidated results of operations also depend on the provision for loan losses, non-interest income, and non-interest expense. Non-interest income includes service fees and charges, income on bank-owned life insurance, gains (losses) on sales of mortgages, gains (losses) on non-marketable equity investments and gains (losses) on securities. Non-interest expense includes salaries and employee benefits, occupancy expenses, data processing, advertising expense, FDIC insurance assessment, professional fees and other general and administrative expenses.
Previous wording
Our accounting policies are disclosed in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements. Given our current business strategy and asset/liability structure, the more critical policy is the allowance for credit losses and provision for credit losses. In addition to the informational disclosure in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, our policy on this accounting policy is described in detail in the applicable sections of*“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”* Senior management has discussed the development and selection of this accounting policy and the related disclosures with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.
Current wording
Our accounting policies are disclosed in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements. Given our current business strategy and asset/liability structure, the more critical policy is the allowance for credit losses and provision for credit losses. In addition to the informational disclosure in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, our policy on this accounting policy is described in detail in the applicable sections of*“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”* Senior management has discussed the development and selection of this accounting policy and the related disclosures with the Audit Committee of the Board.
Previous wording
The allowance for credit losses is an estimate of expected losses inherent within the Company's existing loans held for investment portfolio. The allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment, as reported in our consolidated balance sheet, is adjusted by a credit loss expense, which is reported in earnings, and reduced by the charge-off of loan amounts, net of recoveries. Accrued interest receivable on loans held for investment was $7.5 million at December 31, 2023 and is excluded from the estimate of credit losses.
Current wording
The allowance for credit losses is an estimate of expected losses inherent within the Company’s existing loans held for investment portfolio. The allowance for credit losses for loans held for investment, as reported in our consolidated balance sheet, is adjusted by a credit loss expense, which is reported in earnings, and reduced by the charge-off of loan amounts, net of recoveries. Accrued interest receivable on loans held for investment was $7.4 million at December 31, 2024 and is excluded from the estimate of credit losses.
Previous wording
This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates that may be susceptible to significant change. The credit loss estimation process involves procedures to appropriately consider the unique characteristics of loan portfolio segments, which consist of commercial real estate loans, residential real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans, and consumer loans. These segments are further disaggregated into loan classes, the level at which credit risk is monitored. For each of these pools, the Company generates cash flow projections at the instrument level wherein payment expectations are adjusted for estimated prepayment speed, curtailments, time to recovery, probability of default, and loss given default. The modeling of expected prepayment speeds, curtailment rates, and time to recovery are based on historical internal data. The quantitative component of the ACL on loans is model-based and utilizes a forward-looking macroeconomic forecast. The Company uses a discounted cash flow method, incorporating probability of default and loss given default forecasted based on statistically derived economic variable loss drivers, to estimate expected credit losses. This process includes estimates which involve modeling loss projections attributable to existing loan balances, and considering historical experience, current conditions, and future expectations for pools of loans over a reasonable and supportable forecast period. The historical information either experienced by the Company or by a selection of peer banks, when appropriate, is derived from a combination of recessionary and non-recessionary performance periods for which data is available.
Current wording
This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates that may be susceptible to significant change. The credit loss estimation process involves procedures to appropriately consider the unique characteristics of loan portfolio segments, which consist of commercial real estate loans, residential real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans, and consumer loans. These segments are further disaggregated into loan classes, the level at which credit risk is monitored. For each of these pools, the Company generates cash flow projections at the instrument level wherein payment expectations are adjusted for estimated prepayment speed, curtailments, time to recovery, probability of default, and loss given default. The modeling of expected prepayment speeds, curtailment rates, and time to recovery are based on historical internal data. The quantitative component of the ACL on loans is model-based and utilizes a forward-looking macroeconomic forecast. For commercial real estate loans, residential real estate loans, and commercial and industrial loans, the Company uses a discounted cash flow method, incorporating probability of default and loss given default forecasted based on statistically derived economic variable loss drivers, to estimate expected credit losses. This process includes estimates which involve modeling loss projections attributable to existing loan balances, and considering historical experience, current conditions, and future expectations for pools of loans over a reasonable and supportable forecast period. The historical information either experienced by the Company or by a selection of peer banks, when appropriate, is derived from a combination of recessionary and non-recessionary performance periods for which data is available. The expected loss estimates for the consumer loan segment are based on historical loss rates using the WARM method.
Previous wording
At December 31, 2023, total assets were $2.6 billion, an increase of $11.4 million, or 0.4%, from December 31, 2022. The balance sheet composition and changes since December 31, 2022 are discussed below.
Current wording
At December 31, 2024, total assets were $2.7 billion, an increase of $88.5 million, or 3.5%, from December 31, 2023. The balance sheet composition and changes since December 31, 2023 are discussed below.
Previous wording
Cash and cash equivalents is comprised of cash on hand and amounts due from banks, interest-earning deposits in other financial institutions and federal funds sold. Cash and cash equivalents totaled $28.8 million, or 1.1% of total assets, at December 31, 2023 and $30.3 million, or 1.2% of total assets, at December 31, 2022. Balances in cash and cash equivalents will fluctuate due primarily to the timing of net deposit flows, borrowing and loan inflows and outflows, investment purchases and maturities, calls and sales proceeds, and the immediate liquidity needs of the Company.
Current wording
Cash and cash equivalents is comprised of cash on hand and amounts due from banks, interest-earning deposits in other financial institutions and federal funds sold. Cash and cash equivalents totaled $66.5 million, or 2.5% of total assets, at December 31, 2024 and $28.8 million, or 1.1% of total assets, at December 31, 2023. Balances in cash and cash equivalents will fluctuate due primarily to the timing of net deposit flows, borrowing and loan inflows and outflows, investment purchases and maturities, calls and sales proceeds, and the immediate liquidity needs of the Company.
Previous wording
At December 31, 2023, the AFS and HTM securities portfolio represented 14.1% of total assets compared to 14.8% at December 31, 2022. At December 31, 2023, the Company’s AFS securities portfolio, recorded at fair market value, decreased $9.9 million, or 6.7%, from $147.0 million at December 31, 2022 to $137.1 million. The HTM securities portfolio, recorded at amortized cost, decreased $6.8 million, or 3.0%, from $230.2 million at December 31, 2022 to $223.4 million at December 31, 2023. The marketable equity securities portfolio decreased $6.0 million, or 96.9%, from $6.2 million at December 31, 2022 to $196,000 at December 31, 2023. The decrease in the AFS and HTM securities portfolios was primarily due to amortization and payoffs recorded during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023.
Current wording
At December 31, 2024, the investment securities portfolio totaled $366.1 million, or 13.8% of total assets, compared to $360.7 million, or 14.1% of total assets, at December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2024, the Company’s available-for-sale securities portfolio, recorded at fair market value, increased $23.6 million, or 17.2%, from $137.1 million at December 31, 2023 to $160.7 million. The held-to-maturity securities portfolio, recorded at amortized cost, decreased $18.4 million, or 8.2%, from $223.4 million at December 31, 2023 to $205.0 million at December 31, 2024.
Previous wording
At December 31, 2023, the Company reported unrealized losses on the AFS securities portfolio of $29.2 million, or 17.5% of the amortized cost basis of the AFS securities portfolio, compared to unrealized losses of $32.2 million, or 18.0% of the amortized cost basis of the AFS securities at December 31, 2022. At December 31, 2023, the Company reported unrealized losses on the HTM securities portfolio of $35.7 million, or 16.0%, of the amortized cost basis of the HTM securities portfolio, compared to $39.2 million, or 17.0% of the amortized cost basis of the HTM securities portfolio at December 31, 2022.
Current wording
At December 31, 2024, the Company reported unrealized losses on the available-for-sale securities portfolio of $31.2 million, or 16.2% of the amortized cost basis of the available-for-sale securities portfolio, compared to unrealized losses of $29.2 million, or 17.5% of the amortized cost basis of the available-for-sale securities at December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2024, the Company reported unrealized losses on the held-to-maturity securities portfolio of $39.4 million, or 19.2% of the amortized cost basis of the held-to-maturity securities portfolio, compared to $35.7 million, or 16.0% of the amortized cost basis of the held-to-maturity securities portfolio at December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
The Bank is required to purchase FHLB stock at par value in association with advances from the FHLB. The stock is classified as a restricted investment and carried at cost which management believes approximates fair value. The Company’s investment in FHLB capital stock amounted to $3.2 million and $2.9 million at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively.
Current wording
The Bank is required to purchase FHLB stock at par value in association with advances from the FHLB. The stock is classified as a restricted investment and carried at cost which management believes approximates fair value. The Company’s investment in FHLB capital stock amounted to $5.4 million and $3.2 million at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.
Previous wording
The Company indirectly utilizes the earnings on BOLI to offset the cost of the Company’s benefit plans. The cash surrender value of BOLI was $75.1 million and $74.6 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Current wording
The Company indirectly utilizes the earnings on BOLI to offset the cost of the Company’s benefit plans. The cash surrender value of BOLI was $77.1 million and $75.1 million at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and was issued by eleven insurance companies rated investment grade or better.
Previous wording
At December 31, 2023, total borrowings increased $94.3 million, or 151.5%, from $62.2 million at December 31, 2022 to $156.5 million. Short-term borrowings decreased $25.3 million, or 61.1%, to $16.1 million, compared to $41.4 million at December 31, 2022. Long-term borrowings increased $119.5 million, from $1.2 million at December 31, 2022, to $120.6 million at December 31, 2023, to replace deposit attrition. Long-term borrowings consisted of $30.6 million outstanding with the FHLB and $90.0 million outstanding under the FRB’s BTFP. At December 31, 2023, borrowings also consisted of $19.7 million in fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes.
Current wording
At December 31, 2024, total borrowings decreased $33.4 million, or 21.3%, from $156.5 million at December 31, 2023 to $123.1 million. At December 31, 2024, short-term borrowings decreased $10.7 million, or 66.5%, to $5.4 million, compared to $16.1 million at December 31, 2023. Long-term borrowings decreased $22.6 million, or 18.8%, from $120.6 million at December 31, 2023 to $98.0 million at December 31, 2024. At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, borrowings also consisted of $19.8 million and $19.7 million, respectively, in fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes.
Previous wording
At December 31, 2023, shareholders’ equity was $237.4 million, or 9.3% of total assets, compared to $228.1 million, or 8.9% of total assets, at December 31, 2022. The increase was primarily attributable to net income of $15.1 million, partially offset by a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss of $3.3 million, $5.0 million for the repurchase of common stock and cash dividends paid of $6.1 million. At December 31, 2023, total shares outstanding were 21,666,807.
Current wording
At December 31, 2024, shareholders’ equity was $235.9 million, or 8.9% of total assets, compared to $237.4 million, or 9.3% of total assets, at December 31, 2023. The change was primarily attributable to an increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss of $1.5 million, cash dividends paid of $5.9 million, repurchase of shares at a cost of $7.8 million, partially offset by net income of $11.7 million. At December 31, 2024, total shares outstanding were 20,875,713.
Previous wording
The Company’s book value per share was $10.96 at December 31, 2023 compared to $10.27 at December 31, 2022, while tangible book value per share, a non-GAAP financial measure, increased $0.69, or 7.2%, from $9.61 at December 31, 2022 to $10.30 at December 31, 2023. The Company had no incurred credit losses in its investment portfolio in 2023 or 2022. Tangible book value is a Non-GAAP measure. For more information regarding the Company’s use of Non-GAAP financial measures see “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements.” As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s and the Bank’s regulatory capital ratios continued to exceed the levels required to be considered “well-capitalized” under federal banking regulations.
Current wording
The Company’s book value per share was $11.30 at December 31, 2024, compared to $10.96 at December 31, 2023, while tangible book value per share, a non-GAAP financial measure, increased $0.33, or 3.2%, from $10.30 at December 31, 2023 to $10.63 at December 31, 2024. Tangible book value is a Non-GAAP measure. For more information regarding the Company’s use of Non-GAAP financial measures see “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements.” As of December 31, 2024, the Company’s and the Bank’s regulatory capital ratios continued to exceed the levels required to be considered “well-capitalized” under federal banking regulations.
Previous wording
The Company provides a wide range of investment advisory and wealth management services through Westfield Investment Services through LPL Financial, a third-party broker-dealer. Investment assets under management increased $19.6 million, or 12.9%, to $172.1 million as of December 31, 2023, from $152.5 million as of December 31, 2022.
Current wording
The Company provides a wide range of investment advisory and wealth management services through Westfield Investment Services through LPL Financial, a third-party broker-dealer. Investment assets under management increased $27.2 million, or 15.8%, to $199.3 million as of December 31, 2024, from $172.1 million as of December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company reported net income of $15.1 million, or $0.70 per diluted share, compared to $25.9 million, or $1.18 per diluted share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. Return on average assets and return on average equity were 0.59% and 6.47% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, respectively, compared to 1.02% and 11.85% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, respectively.
Current wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the Company reported net income of $11.7 million, or $0.56 per diluted share, compared to $15.1 million, or $0.70 per diluted share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. Net interest income decreased $8.1 million, or 11.9%, provision for credit losses decreased $1.5 million, non-interest income increased $2.0 million, or 18.4%, and non-interest expense increased $78,000, or 0.1%, during the same period in 2023. Return on average assets and return on average equity were 0.45% and 4.93% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, respectively, compared to 0.59% and 6.47% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, respectively.
Previous wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, net interest income decreased $11.3 million, or 14.3%, to $67.9 million, compared to $79.2 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in net interest income was due to an increase in interest expense of $26.5 million, partially offset by an increase in interest and dividend income of $15.2 million, or 17.7%.
Current wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, net interest income decreased $8.1 million, or 11.9%, to $59.8 million, compared to $67.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in net interest income was primarily due to an increase in interest expense of $16.8 million, or 50.6%, partially offset by an increase in interest and dividend income of $8.7 million, or 8.6%.
Previous wording
The net interest margin for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 was 2.82%, compared to 3.31% during the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 2.84% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, compared to 3.33% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022.
Current wording
The net interest margin for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 was 2.45%, compared to 2.82% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 2.47% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to 2.84% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
The average yield on interest-earning assets, without the impact of tax-equivalent adjustments, increased 62 basis points from 3.58% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 to 4.20% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, average interest-earning assets increased $10.3 million, or 0.4%, to $2.4 billion compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, primarily due to an increase in average loans of $52.6 million, or 2.7%, and an increase in average other investments of $2.1 million, or 20.8%, partially offset by a decrease in average securities of $39.2 million, or 9.6%, and a decrease in average short-term investments, consisting of cash and cash equivalents, of $5.3 million, or 20.4%.
Current wording
The average yield on interest-earning assets, without the impact of tax-equivalent adjustments, increased 30 basis points from 4.20% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 to 4.50% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024. The average yield on loans, without the impact of tax-equivalent adjustments, increased 32 basis points from 4.54% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 to 4.86% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, average interest-earning assets increased $33.5 million, or 1.4%, to $2.4 billion, compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to an increase in average loans of $29.0 million, or 1.4%, an increase in average short-term investments, consisting of cash and cash equivalents, of $12.8 million, or 62.5%, and an increase in average other investments of $2.2 million, or 18.1%, partially offset by a decrease in average securities of $10.6 million, or 2.9%.
Previous wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the average cost of funds, including non-interest-bearing demand accounts and borrowings, increased 115 basis points from 0.29% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 to 1.44%. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the average cost of core deposits, including non-interest-bearing demand deposits, increased 45 basis points from 0.20% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 to 0.65% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The average cost of time deposits increased 262 basis points from 0.41% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 to 3.03% during the same period in 2023. The average cost of borrowings, which include FHLB advances and subordinated debt, increased 58 basis points from 4.26% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 to 4.84% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023.
Current wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the average cost of funds, including non-interest-bearing demand accounts and borrowings, increased 70 basis points from 1.44% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 to 2.14%. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the average cost of core deposits, including non-interest-bearing demand deposits, increased 24 basis points from 0.65% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, to 0.89%. The average cost of time deposits increased 129 basis points from 3.03% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 to 4.32% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024. The average cost of borrowings, which include borrowings and subordinated debt, increased 16 basis points from 4.84% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 to 5.00% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024.
Previous wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, average demand deposits, an interest-free source of funds, decreased $45.3 million, or 7.0%, from $648.0 million, or 28.6% of total average deposits, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, to $602.7 million, or 27.8% of total average deposits.
Current wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, average demand deposits, an interest-free source of funds, decreased $41.4 million, or 6.9%, from $602.7 million, or 27.8% of total average deposits, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, to $561.3 million, or 25.8% of total average deposits.
Previous wording
The Company recorded net charge-offs of $2.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, as compared to net charge-offs of $556,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The charge-offs for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 were related to one commercial relationship acquired on October 21, 2016 from Chicopee Bancorp, Inc., which was placed on nonaccrual status during the first quarter of 2023. The Company recorded a $1.9 million charge-off on the relationship, which represented the non-accretable credit mark that was required to be grossed-up to the loan’s amortized cost basis with a corresponding increase to the allowance for credit losses under CECL implementation. At December 31, 2023, the Company had charged-off 61% of the total relationship and the remaining exposure of $940,000 is collateralized at this time.
Current wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the Company recorded a reversal of credit losses of $665,000, compared to a provision for credit losses of $872,000 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in reserves was primarily due to changes in the economic environment and related adjustments to the quantitative components of the CECL methodology. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the Company recorded net recoveries of $87,000, compared to net charge-offs of $2.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The charge-offs during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 were related to one commercial relationship acquired in October 2016 from Chicopee Bancorp, Inc. Specifically, the Company recorded a $1.9 million charge-off on the acquired commercial relationship, which represented the non-accretable credit mark that was required to be grossed-up to the loan’s amortized cost basis with a corresponding increase to the allowance for credit losses under the CECL implementation.
Previous wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, non-interest income decreased $2.4 million, or 18.3%, from $13.3 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 to $10.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded a $1.1 million final termination expense related to the DB Plan termination, compared to a curtailment gain related to the DB Plan termination of $2.8 million, during the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The Company also recorded a non-taxable gain of $778,000 on BOLI death benefits during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The Company did not have comparable income during the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. Excluding the termination expense and the curtailment gain related to the DB Plan termination and the BOLI death benefit, non-interest income increased $737,000, or 7.0%.
Current wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, non-interest income increased $2.0 million, or 18.4%, from $10.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 to $12.9 million. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded a non-recurring final termination expense of $1.1 million related to the defined benefit pension plan termination. During the twelve months ended, December 31, 2023, the Company also recorded a non-taxable gain of $778,000 on BOLI death benefits and did not have a comparable gain during the twelve months ended December 31, 2024. Excluding the defined benefit pension plan termination expense and the BOLI death benefit, non-interest income increased $1.6 million, or 14.6%.
Previous wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, service charges and fees decreased $216,000, or 2.4%, primarily due to changes in the Company’s overdraft program that were implemented in 2023. Income from BOLI increased $95,000, or 5.5%, from $1.7 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 to $1.8 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. Other income from loan-level swap fees on commercial loans decreased $25,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company reported a gain of $590,000 on non-marketable equity investments compared to a gain of $422,000 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company reported a loss on the disposal of premises and equipment of $3,000. The Company did not have comparable activity during the same period in 2022. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, the Company also reported unrealized losses on marketable equity securities of $717,000, compared to unrealized losses on marketable equity securities of $1,000 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, the Company reported realized losses on the sale of securities of $4,000. The Company did not have a comparable gain or loss during the same period in 2023.
Current wording
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, service charges and fees increased $346,000, or 3.9%, and income from BOLI increased $91,000, or 5.0%, from $1.8 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 to $1.9 million. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the Company recorded other income from loan-level swap fees on commercial loans of $261,000 and did not have comparable income during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the Company reported a gain of $1.3 million on non-marketable equity investments, compared to a gain of $590,000 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the Company reported a loss on the disposal of premises and equipment of $6,000, compared to a loss of $3,000 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company also reported unrealized losses on marketable equity securities of $1,000, compared to unrealized gains on marketable equity securities of $13,000 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2024.
Previous wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, non-interest expense increased $1.1 million, or 1.9%, to $58.4 million, compared to $57.2 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The increase in non-interest expense was primarily due to an increase in other expense of $953,000, or 10.1%, as a result of a $510,000 legal settlement accrual. During the three months ended December 31, 2023, the Company reached an agreement-in-principle to settle purported class action lawsuits concerning the Company’s deposit products and related disclosures, specifically involving overdraft fees and insufficient funds fees. This agreement-in-principle reflects our business decision to avoid the costs, uncertainties and distractions of further litigation. Excluding the legal settlement accrual, non-interest expense increased $605,000, or 1.1%, from $57.2 million, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 to $57.8 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023.
Current wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, non-interest expense increased $78,000, or 0.1%, to $58.4 million from the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the Company reached an agreement-in-principle to settle purported class action lawsuits concerning the Company’s deposit products and related disclosures, specifically involving overdraft fees and insufficient funds fees. This agreement-in-principle reflects our business decision to avoid the costs, uncertainties and distractions of further litigation. Excluding the legal settlement accrual of $510,000, non-interest expense increased $588,000, or 1.0%, from $57.8 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 to $58.4 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024.
Previous wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the efficiency ratio was 74.0%, compared to 61.8% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, the adjusted efficiency ratio, a non-GAAP financial measure, was 74.3%, compared to 63.6% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. For more information regarding the Company’s use of Non-GAAP financial measures see “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements.”
Current wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the efficiency ratio was 80.4%, compared to 74.0% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, the adjusted efficiency ratio, a non-GAAP financial measure, was 81.8%, compared to 74.3% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. For more information regarding the Company’s use of Non-GAAP financial measures see “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements.”
Previous wording
Income tax expense for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 was $4.5 million, with an effective tax rate of 23.1%, compared to $8.7 million, with an effective tax rate of 25.2%, for twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The decrease in income tax expense for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 compared to the twelve months December 31, 2022 was due to lower income before income taxes in 2023.
Current wording
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, income tax expense was $3.3 million, with an effective tax rate of 22.0%, compared to $4.5 million, with an effective tax rate of 23.1%, for twelve months ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in income tax expense for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the twelve months December 31, 2023 was due to lower income before taxes in 2024.
Previous wording
At December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, outstanding borrowings from the FHLB were $40.6 million and $36.2 million, respectively. At December 31, 2023, we had $535.6 million in available borrowing capacity with the FHLB. We have the ability to increase our borrowing capacity with the FHLB by pledging investment securities or additional loans.
Current wording
At December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, outstanding borrowings from the FHLB were $98.0 million and $40.6 million, respectively. At December 31, 2024, we had $464.1 million in available borrowing capacity with the FHLB. We have the ability to increase our borrowing capacity with the FHLB by pledging investment securities or additional loans.
Previous wording
The Company has an available line of credit of $48.6 million with the FRB Discount Window at an interest rate determined and reset on a daily basis. Borrowings from the FRB Discount Window are secured by certain securities from the Company’s investment portfolio not otherwise pledged. As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were no advances outstanding under either of these lines.
Current wording
The Company has an available line of credit of $382.9 million with the FRB Discount Window at an interest rate determined and reset on a daily basis. Borrowings from the FRB Discount Window are secured by certain eligible loan collateral and securities from the Company’s investment portfolio not otherwise pledged. As of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, there were no advances outstanding under either of these lines.
Previous wording
On March 12, 2023, the FRB made available the BTFP, which enhances the ability of banks to borrow greater amounts against certain high-quality, unencumbered investments at par value. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company participated in the BTFP, which enabled the Company to pay off higher rate FHLB advances. With the BTFP, the Company has the ability to pay off the BTFP advance prior to maturity without incurring a penalty or termination fee.
Current wording
On March 12, 2023, the FRB made available the BTFP, which enhanced the ability of banks to borrow greater amounts against certain high-quality, unencumbered investments at par value. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company participated in the BTFP, which enabled the Company to pay off higher rate FHLB advances. At December 31, 2023, long-term debt included $90.0 million in outstanding advances under the BTFP with a weighted average fixed rate of 4.71%. There were no advances outstanding with the FRB under the BTFP at December 31, 2024.
Previous wording
The Company’s primary activities are the origination of commercial real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans and residential real estate loans, as well as and the purchase of mortgage-backed and other investment securities. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we originated $225.6 million in loans, compared to $447.4 million in 2022. During the year ended December 31, 2023, total loans increased $35.9 million, or 1.8%, compared to an increase of $126.7 million, or 6.8%, for the year ended December 31, 2022. At December 31, 2023, the Company had approximately $92.0 million in loan commitments and letters of credit to borrowers and approximately $352.5 million in available home equity and other unadvanced lines of credit.
Current wording
The Company’s primary activities are the origination of commercial real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans and residential real estate loans, as well as and the purchase of mortgage-backed and other investment securities. During the year ended December 31, 2023, we originated $336.4 million in loans, compared to $225.6 million in 2023. During the year ended December 31, 2024, total loans increased $42.9 million, or 2.1%, compared to an increase of $35.9 million, or 1.8%, for the year ended December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2024, the Company had approximately $122.4 million in loan commitments and letters of credit to borrowers and approximately $343.1 million in available home equity and other unadvanced lines of credit.
Previous wording
Deposit inflows and outflows are affected by the level of interest rates, the products and interest rates offered by competitors and by other factors. At December 31, 2023, time deposit accounts scheduled to mature within one year totaled $596.3 million. Based on the Company’s deposit retention experience and current pricing strategy, we anticipate that a significant portion of these time deposits will remain on deposit. We monitor our liquidity position frequently and anticipate that it will have sufficient funds to meet our current funding commitments for the next 12 months and beyond.
Current wording
Deposit inflows and outflows are affected by the level of interest rates, the products and interest rates offered by competitors and by other factors. At December 31, 2024, time deposit accounts scheduled to mature within one year totaled $694.9 million. Based on the Company’s deposit retention experience and current pricing strategy, we anticipate that a significant portion of these time deposits will remain on deposit. We monitor our liquidity position frequently and anticipate that it will have sufficient funds to meet our current funding commitments for the next 12 months and beyond.
Previous wording
The Company entered into a long-term contractual obligation with a vendor for use of its core provider and ancillary services beginning in 2016. Total remaining contractual obligations outstanding with this vendor as of December 31, 2023 were estimated to be $11.6 million, with $5.4 million expected to be paid within one year and the remaining $6.2 million to be paid within the next three years. Further, the Company has operating leases for certain of its banking offices and ATMs. Our leases have remaining lease terms of less than one year to fifteen years, some of which include options to extend the leases for additional five-year terms up to ten years. Undiscounted lease liabilities totaled $9.9 million as of December 31, 2023. Principal payments expected to be made on our lease liabilities during the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 were $1.5 million. The remaining lease liability payments totaled $8.4 million and are expected to be made after December 31, 2024 (See Note 12,Leases, to our consolidated financial statements for further information on our lease obligations).
Current wording
The Company entered into a long-term contractual obligation with a vendor for use of its core provider and ancillary services beginning in 2016. Total remaining contractual obligations outstanding with this vendor as of December 31, 2024 were estimated to be $7.1 million, with $6.1 million expected to be paid within one year and the remaining $1.0 million to be paid within the next three years. Further, the Company has operating leases for certain of its banking offices and ATMs. Our leases have remaining lease terms of less than one year to fourteen years, some of which include options to extend the leases for additional five-year terms up to ten years. Undiscounted lease liabilities totaled $8.9 million as of December 31, 2024. Principal payments expected to be made on our lease liabilities during the twelve months ended December 31, 2025 were $1.5 million. The remaining lease liability payments totaled $7.4 million and are expected to be made after December 31, 2025 (See Note 12,Leases, to our consolidated financial statements for further information on our lease obligations).
Previous wording
In addition, the Company completed an offering of $20 million in aggregate principal amount of its 4.875% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes (the “Notes”) to certain qualified institutional buyers in a private placement transaction on April 20, 2021. Unless earlier redeemed, the Notes mature on May 1, 2031. At December 31, 2022, $19.7 million aggregate principle amount of the Notes was outstanding. The Notes will bear interest from the initial issue date to, but excluding, May 1, 2026, or the earlier redemption date, at a fixed rate of 4.875% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears on May 1, August 1, November 1 and February 1 of each year, beginning August 1, 2021, and from and including May 1, 2026, but excluding the maturity date or earlier redemption date, equal to the benchmark rate, which is the 90-day average secured overnight financing rate, plus 412 basis points, determined on the determination date of the applicable interest period, payable quarterly in arrears on May 1, August 1, November 1 and February 1 of each year. The Company may also redeem the Notes, in whole or in part, on or after May 1, 2026, and at any time upon the occurrence of certain events, subject in each case to the approval of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve (See Note 8,Long-Term Debt, to our consolidated financial statements for further information on our long-term debt).
Current wording
In addition, the Company completed an offering of $20 million in aggregate principal amount of its 4.875% Notes to certain qualified institutional buyers in a private placement transaction on April 20, 2021. Unless earlier redeemed, the Notes mature on May 1, 2031. At December 31, 2024, $19.8 million aggregate principle amount of the Notes was outstanding. The Notes will bear interest from the initial issue date to, but excluding, May 1, 2026, or the earlier redemption date, at a fixed rate of 4.875% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears on May 1, August 1, November 1 and February 1 of each year, beginning August 1, 2021, and from and including May 1, 2026, but excluding the maturity date or earlier redemption date, equal to the benchmark rate, which is the 90-day average secured overnight financing rate, plus 412 basis points, determined on the determination date of the applicable interest period, payable quarterly in arrears on May 1, August 1, November 1 and February 1 of each year. The Company may also redeem the Notes, in whole or in part, on or after May 1, 2026, and at any time upon the occurrence of certain events, subject in each case to the approval of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve (See Note 8,Long-Term Debt, to our consolidated financial statements for further information on our long-term debt).
Previous wording
In order to achieve the Company’s objectives of managing interest rate risk, the Asset and Liability Management Committee (“ALCO”) meets periodically to discuss and monitor the market interest rate environment relative to interest rates that are offered on our products. ALCO presents quarterly reports to the Board of Directors which includes the Company’s interest rate risk position and liquidity position.
Current wording
In order to achieve the Company’s objectives of managing interest rate risk, the Asset and Liability Management Committee (“ALCO”) meets periodically to discuss and monitor the market interest rate environment relative to interest rates that are offered on our products. ALCO presents quarterly reports to the Board which includes the Company’s interest rate risk position and liquidity position.
Previous wording
In 2022, cash flows from deposit inflows were used to fund loan growth and purchase HTM and AFS securities. The Company continues its emphasis on growing commercial loans, which typically have variable interest rates and shorter maturities than residential loans.
Current wording
In 2024, cash flows from deposit inflows were used to first to fund loan growth, and then to purchase securities, primarily AFS securities. While net loan growth during 2024 was centered in residential real estate loans, the Company’s long-term focus continues to be on growing commercial loans that present the appropriate levels of risk and return. Commercial loans typically have variable interest rates and shorter maturities than residential loans.
Previous wording
Periodically, if deemed appropriate, we may use interest rate swaps, floors and caps, which are common derivative financial instruments, to hedge our interest rate exposure to interest rate movements. The Board of Directors has approved hedging policy statements governing the use of these instruments. These interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges and involve the receipt of variable rate amounts from a counterparty in exchange for our making fixed payments.
Current wording
Periodically, if deemed appropriate, we may use interest rate swaps, floors and caps, which are common derivative financial instruments, to hedge our interest rate exposure to interest rate movements. The Board has approved hedging policy statements governing the use of these instruments. These interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges and involve the receipt of variable rate amounts from a counterparty in exchange for our making fixed payments.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (1)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
At December 31, 2023, long-term debt included $90.0 million in outstanding advances under the BTFP with a weighted average fixed rate of 4.71%. There were no advances outstanding with the FRB under the BTFP at December 31, 2022. At December 31, 2023, the Company had $23.6 million in available borrowing capacity under the BTFP.