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 UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

☒QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2023

 

or

 

☐TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ___________ to ___________

 

Commission File Number: 001-16767

 

Western New England Bancorp, Inc. 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Massachusetts   73-1627673
       (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)   (IRS Employer Identification Number)

 

141 Elm Street, Westfield, Massachusetts   01086
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

 

(413) 568-1911 

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

 

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share WNEB NASDAQ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.   Yes ☒     No ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).   Yes ☒     No ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer ☐ Accelerated filer ☒
Non-accelerated filer ☐  Smaller reporting company ☒
  Emerging growth company ☐  

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes ☐    No ☒ 

 

At May 1, 2023 the registrant had 22,209,347 shares of common stock, $0.01 par value, issued and outstanding.

 

 

  

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    Page
     
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS i
     
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION  
     
Item 1. Financial Statements of Western New England Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries (Unaudited)  
     
  Consolidated Balance Sheets – March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 1
     
  Consolidated Statements of Net Income – Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 2
     
  Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income – Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 3
     
  Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity – Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 4
     
  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 5
     
  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 6
     
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 35
     
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 47
     
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 49
     
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION  
     
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 49
     
Item 1A. Risk Factors 49
     
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 50
     
Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities 50
     
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 50
     
Item 5. Other Information 50
     
Item 6. Exhibits 51

 

 

  

FORWARD–LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

We may, from time to time, make written or oral “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to the Company’s financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, future performance, business, measures being taken in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (“COVID-19”) pandemic and the impact of the COVID-19 impact on the Company’s business. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of such words as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “should,” “planned,” “estimated,” and “potential.” Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, estimates with respect to our financial condition, results of operations and business that are subject to various factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from these estimates. These factors include, but are not limited to:

 

●unpredictable changes in general economic conditions, financial markets, fiscal, monetary and regulatory policies, including actual or potential stress in the banking industry;

●the duration and scope of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, including the emergence of new COVID-19 variants and the response thereto;

●changes in economic conditions which could materially impact credit quality trends and the ability to generate loans and gather deposits;

●inflation and governmental responses to inflation, including increasing interest rates that reduce margins;

●the effect on our operations of governmental legislation and regulation, including changes in accounting regulation or standards, the nature and timing of the adoption and effectiveness of new requirements under the Dodd-Frank Act Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, Basel guidelines, capital requirements and other applicable laws and regulations;

●significant changes in accounting, tax or regulatory practices or requirements;

●new legal obligations or liabilities or unfavorable resolutions of litigation;

●disruptive technologies in payment systems and other services traditionally provided by banks;

●the highly competitive industry and market area in which we operate;

●uncertainty about the discontinued use of LIBOR and the transition to an alternative rate;

●changes in business conditions and inflation;

●operational risks or risk management failures by us or critical third parties, including without limitation with respect to data processing, information systems, cybersecurity, technological changes, vendor issues, business interruption, and fraud risks;

●failure or circumvention of our internal controls or procedures;

●changes in the securities markets which affect investment management revenues;

●increases in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation deposit insurance premiums and assessments;

●the soundness of other financial services institutions which may adversely affect our credit risk;

●certain of our intangible assets may become impaired in the future;

●new lines of business or new products and services, which may subject us to additional risks;

●changes in key management personnel which may adversely impact our operations;

●severe weather, natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism and other external events which could significantly impact our business; and

●other risk factors detailed from time to time in our SEC filings.

 

Investors should consider these risks, uncertainties, and other factors in addition to the factors under the heading “Risk Factors” included in this filing and our other filings with the SEC.

 

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in these forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We do not undertake any obligation to republish revised forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except to the extent required by law.

 

i

 

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - UNAUDITED 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

  

March 31,

2023

  

December 31,

2022

 
ASSETS          
Cash and due from banks  $17,677   $25,577 
Federal funds sold   458    1,652 
Interest-bearing deposits and other short-term investments   5,095    3,113 
Cash and cash equivalents   23,230    30,342 
           
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value   146,373    146,997 
Held-to-maturity securities, at amortized cost (Fair value of $191,073 and $190,950 at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively)   226,996    230,168 
Marketable equity securities, at fair value   6,309    6,237 
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston stock and other restricted stock, at cost   7,173    3,352 
Loans, net of allowance for credit losses of $19,031 at March 31, 2023 and $19,931 at December 31, 2022   1,987,468    1,971,469 
Premises and equipment, net   24,379    24,953 
Accrued interest receivable   8,009    8,140 
Bank-owned life insurance   75,060    74,620 
Deferred tax asset, net   14,348    15,027 
Goodwill   12,487    12,487 
Core deposit intangible   2,094    2,188 
Other assets   28,089    27,170 
TOTAL ASSETS  $2,562,015   $2,553,150 
           
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
LIABILITIES:          
Deposits:          
Non-interest-bearing  $625,656   $645,529 
Interest-bearing   1,531,472    1,583,914 
Total deposits   2,157,128    2,229,443 
           
Short-term borrowings   98,990    41,350 
Long-term debt   31,178    1,178 
Subordinated debt   19,682    19,673 
Other liabilities   21,815    33,363 
 TOTAL LIABILITIES   2,328,793    2,325,007 
           
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:          
Preferred stock - $0.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022   —    — 
Common stock - $0.01 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized, 22,209,347 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2023; 22,216,789 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2022   222    222 
Additional paid-in capital   129,156    128,899 
Unearned compensation – Employee Stock Ownership Plan   (2,778)   (2,906)
Unearned compensation - Equity Incentive Plan   (2,039)   (1,012)
Retained earnings   131,762    127,982 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (23,101)   (25,042)
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY   233,222    228,143 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY  $2,562,015   $2,553,150 

 

 See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

1

 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET INCOME – UNAUDITED 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

             
  

Three Months

Ended March 31,

 
   2023   2022 
Interest and dividend income:          
Residential and commercial real estate loans  $18,252   $15,343 
Commercial and industrial loans   3,002    2,544 
Consumer loans   75    60 
Debt securities, taxable   2,076    1,923 
Debt securities, tax-exempt   2    3 
Marketable equity securities   71    24 
Other investments   106    25 
Short-term investments   54    21 
Total interest and dividend income   23,638    19,943 
           
Interest expense:          
Deposits   4,103    992 
Short-term borrowings   703    — 
Long-term debt   74    — 
Subordinated debt   254    253 
Total interest expense   5,134    1,245 
Net interest and dividend income   18,504    18,698 
           
Reversal of credit losses   (388)   (425)
Net interest and dividend income after reversal of credit losses   18,892    19,123 
           
Non-interest income:          
Service charges and fees   2,187    2,174 
Income from bank-owned life insurance   440    448 
Loss on available-for-sale securities, net   —    (4)
Net unrealized loss on marketable equity securities   —    (276)
Gain on sale of mortgages   —    2 
Gain on non-marketable equity investments   352    — 
Other income   —    4 
Total non-interest income   2,979    2,348 
           
Non-interest expense:          
Salaries and employees benefits   8,431    8,239 
Occupancy   1,348    1,363 
Furniture and equipment   486    543 
Data processing   753    723 
Professional fees   757    577 
FDIC insurance assessment   352    286 
Advertising   417    399 
Other expenses   2,352    2,326 
Total non-interest expense   14,896    14,456 
Income before income taxes   6,975    7,015 
Income tax provision   1,671    1,696 
Net income   $5,304   $5,319 
           
Earnings per common share:          
Basic earnings per share  $0.24   $0.24 
Weighted average shares outstanding   21,699,042    22,100,076 
Diluted earnings per share  $0.24   $0.24 
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding   21,716,869    22,172,909 
Dividends per share  $0.07   $0.06 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.  

 

2

 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) – UNAUDITED 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

             
   Three Months Ended March 31, 
   2023   2022 
Net income  $5,304   $5,319 
           
Other comprehensive income (loss):          
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities:          
Unrealized holding gain (loss)   2,616    (11,468)
Reclassification adjustment for net loss realized in income (1)   —    4 
Unrealized gain (loss)   2,616    (11,464)
Tax effect   (675)   2,934 
Net-of-tax amount   1,941    (8,530)
           
Defined benefit pension plan:          
Amortization of defined benefit plans actuarial loss   —    158 
Tax effect   —    (45)
Net-of-tax amount   —    113 
           
Other comprehensive income (loss)   1,941    (8,417)
           
Comprehensive income (loss)  $7,245   $(3,098)

 

(1)Realized losses on available-for-sale securities are recognized as a component of non-interest income. The tax effects applicable to net realized losses were $1,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022.

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.  

 

3

 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY - UNAUDITED

THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2023 AND 2022

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

                                     
   Common Stock                         
   Shares   Par Value   Additional
Paid-in
Capital		   Unearned Compensation-
ESOP		   Unearned Compensation- Equity
Incentive Plan		   Retained
Earnings		   Accumulated
Other Comprehensive
Loss		   Total 
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2021   22,656,515   $227   $132,821   $(3,441)  $(981)  $107,376   $(12,314)  $223,688 
Comprehensive income   —    —    —    —    —    5,319    (8,417)   (3,098)
Common stock held by ESOP committed to be released (78,526 shares)   —    —    45    134    —    —    —    179 
Share-based compensation - equity incentive plan   —    —    —    —    301    —    —    301 
Forfeited equity incentive plan shares (6,651 shares)   —    —    (57)   —    57    —    —    — 
Forfeited equity incentive plan shares reissued (7,289 shares)   —    —    71    —    (71)   —    —    — 
Common stock repurchased   (132,358)   (2)   (1,178)   —    —    —    —    (1,180)
Issuance of common stock in connection with stock option exercises   80,881    1    509    —    —    —    —    510 
Issuance of common stock in connection with equity incentive plan   137,151    1    1,248    —    (1,249)   —    —    — 
Cash dividends declared and paid on common stock ($0.06 per share)   —    —    —    —    —    (1,337)   —    (1,337)
BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2022   22,742,189   $227   $133,459   $(3,307)  $(1,943)  $111,358   $(20,731)  $219,063 
                                         
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2022   22,216,789   $222   $128,899   $(2,906)  $(1,012)  $127,982   $(25,042)  $228,143 
Cumulative effect accounting adjustment(1)   —    —    —    —    —    9    —    9 
Comprehensive income   —    —    —    —    —    5,304    1,941    7,245 
Common stock held by ESOP committed to be released (74,993 shares)   —    —    52    128    —    —    —    180 
Share-based compensation - equity incentive plan   —    —    —    —    529    —    —    529 
Forfeited equity incentive plan shares reissued in connection with 2020 LTI performance share grant (19,761 shares)   —    —    180    —    (180)   —    —    — 
Common stock repurchased   (143,896)   (1)   (1,350)   —    —    —    —    (1,351)
Issuance of common stock in connection with equity incentive plan   136,454    1    1,348    —    (1,349)   —    —    — 
Forfeited equity incentive plan shares reissued in connection with 2023 LTI grant (2,742 shares)   —    —    27    —    (27)   —    —    — 
Cash dividends declared and paid on common stock ($0.07 per share)   —    —    —    —    —    (1,533)   —    (1,533)
BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2023   22,209,347   $222   $129,156   $(2,778)  $(2,039)  $131,762   $(23,101)  $233,222 

 

(1)Represents gross transition adjustment amount of $13,000, net of taxes of $4,000, to reflect the cumulative impact on retained earnings pursuant to the Company’s adoption of Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-13 Financial Instruments-Credit Losses on Financial Instruments and relevant amendments. Refer to Note 5, “Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses” within the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements on Form 10-Q for March 31, 2023.

  

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

4

 

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - UNAUDITED

(Dollars in thousands)

 

             
   Three Months Ended March 31, 
   2023   2022 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:          
Net income  $5,304   $5,319 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:          
Reversal of credit losses   (388)   (425)
Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment   562    584 
Amortization (accretion) of purchase accounting adjustments, net   72    (29)
Amortization of core deposit intangible   94    94 
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities and mortgage loans   330    441 
Net amortization of deferred costs on mortgage loans   106    131 
Net amortization of premiums on subordinated debt   9    10 
Share-based compensation expense   529    301 
ESOP expense   180    179 
Principal balance of loans originated for sale   —    (277)
Principal balance of loans sold   —    277 
Net loss on available-for-sale securities   —    4 
Net change in unrealized loss on marketable equity securities   —    276 
Income from bank-owned life insurance   (440)   (448)
Net change in:          
Accrued interest receivable   131    52 
Other assets   (1,424)   (954)
Other liabilities   (11,043)   1,661 
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities   (5,978)   7,196 
           
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:          
Purchases of held-to-maturity securities   —    (20,627)
Proceeds from calls, maturities and principal collections of held-to-maturity securities   3,065    5,190 
Proceeds from sales and redemption of available-for-sale securities   —    20 
Proceeds from calls, maturities, and principal collections of available-for-sale securities   2,949    8,630 
Loan originations and principal payments, net   (15,770)   (61,734)
Purchase of Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston stock   (3,821)   — 
Purchases of premises and equipment   2    (118)
Proceeds from payout on bank-owned life insurance   —    2,435 
Net cash used in investing activities   (13,575)   (66,204)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:          
Net (decrease) increase in deposits   (72,315)   21,275 
Net change in short-term borrowings   57,640    — 
Repayment of long-term debt   —    (964)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt   30,000    — 
Cash dividends paid on common stock   (1,533)   (1,337)
Common stock repurchased   (1,351)   (1,034)
Issuance of common stock in connection with stock option exercises   —    510 
Net cash provided by financing activities   12,441    18,450 
           
NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:   (7,112)   (40,558)
Beginning of period   30,342    103,456 
End of period  $23,230   $62,898 
           
Supplemental cash flow information:          
Interest paid  $4,984   $1,267 
Taxes paid   3,077    1,020 
Net change in cash due to broker for common stock repurchased   —    146 

 

See the accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

5

  

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

 

MARCH 31, 2023

 

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation. Western New England Bancorp, Inc. (“Western New England Bancorp,” “WNEB,” “Company,” “we,” or “us”) is a Massachusetts-chartered stock holding company for Westfield Bank, a federally-chartered savings bank (“Bank”).

 

The Bank operates 25 banking offices in Hampden and Hampshire counties in western Massachusetts and Hartford and Tolland counties in northern Connecticut, and its primary sources of revenue are interest income from loans as well as interest income from investment securities. The West Hartford Financial Services Center serves as the Company’s Connecticut hub, housing Commercial Lending, Cash Management and a Mortgage Loan Officer. The Bank’s deposits are insured up to the maximum Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) coverage limits.

 

Wholly-owned Subsidiaries. Elm Street Securities Corporation, WFD Securities, Inc. and CSB Colts, Inc., are Massachusetts chartered securities corporations, formed for the primary purpose of holding qualified securities. WB Real Estate Holdings, LLC, is a Massachusetts-chartered limited liability company that holds real property acquired as security for debts previously contracted by the Bank.

 

Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Western New England Bancorp, the Bank, CSB Colts, Inc., Elm Street Securities Corporation, WB Real Estate Holdings, LLC and WFD Securities, Inc. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Estimates. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses for each. Actual results could differ from those estimates. An estimate that is particularly susceptible to significant change in the near-term relates to the determination of the allowance for credit losses.

 

Basis of Presentation. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of our financial condition as of March 31, 2023, and the results of operations, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the interim periods presented. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2023 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the year ending December 31, 2023. Certain information and disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-13 Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which requires the recognition of the allowance for credit losses be estimated using the 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 held-to-maturity debt securities. It also applies to off-balance sheet credit exposures not accounted for as insurance (loan commitments, standby letters of credit, financial guarantees, and other similar instruments) and net investments in leases recognized by a lessor in accordance with Topic 842 on leases (See Notes 4 and 5 to our unaudited consolidated financial statements for further information).

 

These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2022, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 (the “2022 Annual Report”).

 

Reclassifications. Amounts in the prior period financial statements are reclassified when necessary to conform to the current year presentation.

 

 

6

 

2. EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Basic earnings per share represents income available to common shareholders divided by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. If rights to dividends on unvested awards are non-forfeitable, these unvested awards are considered outstanding in the computation of basic earnings per share. Diluted earnings per share reflect additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential common shares had been issued, as well as any adjustment to income that would result from the assumed issuance. Potential common shares that may be issued by us relate to stock options and certain performance-based restricted stock awards and are determined using the treasury stock method. Unallocated Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) shares are not deemed outstanding for earnings per share calculations. There were no anti-dilutive shares outstanding during the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022.

 

Earnings per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 have been computed based on the following:

 

             
   Three Months Ended 
   March 31, 
   2023   2022 
   (In thousands, except per share data) 
Net income applicable to common stock  $5,304   $5,319 
           
Average number of common shares issued   22,220    22,705 
Less: Average unallocated ESOP Shares   (367)   (445)
Less: Average unvested equity incentive plan shares   (154)   (160)
           
Average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate basic earnings per common share   21,699    22,100 
Effect of dilutive equity incentive plan   18    41 
Effect of dilutive stock options   —    32 
Average number of common shares outstanding used to calculate diluted earnings per common share   21,717    22,173 
           
Basic earnings per share  $0.24   $0.24 
Diluted earnings per share  $0.24   $0.24 

 

 

3. COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

 

Accounting principles generally require that recognized revenue, expenses, gains and losses be included in net income. Although certain changes in assets and liabilities are reported as a separate component of the equity section of the balance sheet, such items, along with net income, are components of comprehensive income (loss).

 

The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss included in shareholders’ equity are as follows:

 

   March 31, 2023   December 31, 2022 
   (In thousands) 
Net unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities  $(29,543)  $(32,159)
Tax effect   7,522    8,197 
Net-of-tax amount   (22,021)   (23,962)
           
Unrecognized actuarial loss on the defined benefit plan   (1,501)   (1,501)
Tax effect   421    421 
Net-of-tax amount   (1,080)   (1,080)
           
Accumulated other comprehensive loss  $(23,101)  $(25,042)

 

 

7

 

4.       INVESTMENT SECURITIES

 

Available-for-sale and held-to-maturity investment securities at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 are summarized as follows:

 

   March 31, 2023 
   Amortized Cost   Gross Unrealized Gains   Gross Unrealized Losses   Fair Value 
   (In thousands) 
Available-for-sale securities:                    
Debt securities:                    
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations  $14,916   $—   $(3,045)  $11,871 
State and municipal bonds   270    —    —    270 
Corporate bonds   8,008    —    (509)   7,499 
Total debt securities   23,194    —    (3,554)   19,640 
                     
Mortgage-backed securities:                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   145,456    —    (24,621)   120,835 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   7,266    —    (1,368)   5,898 
Total mortgage-backed securities   152,722    —    (25,989)   126,733 
                     
Total available-for-sale   175,916    —    (29,543)   146,373 
                     
Held-to-maturity securities:                    
Debt securities:                    
U.S. Treasury securities   9,989    —    (695)   9,294 
Total debt securities   9,989    —    (695)   9,294 
                     
Mortgage-backed securities:                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   217,007    118    (35,346)   181,779 
Total mortgage-backed securities   217,007    118    (35,346)   181,779 
                     
Total held-to-maturity   226,996    118    (36,041)   191,073 
                     

Total 

  $402,912   $118   $(65,584)  $337,446 

 

8

 

   December 31, 2022 
   Amortized Cost   Gross Unrealized Gains   Gross Unrealized Losses   Fair Value 
   (In thousands) 
Available-for-sale securities:                    
Debt securities:                    
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations  $14,913   $—   $(3,345)  $11,568 
State and municipal bonds   270    —    —    270 
Corporate bonds   8,012    —    (519)   7,493 
Total debt securities   23,195    —    (3,864)   19,331 
                     
Mortgage-backed securities:                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   148,544    —    (26,826)   121,718 
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   7,417    —    (1,469)   5,948 
Total mortgage-backed securities   155,961    —    (28,295)   127,666 
                     
Total available-for-sale   179,156    —    (32,159)   146,997 
                     
Held-to-maturity securities:                    
Debt securities:                    
U.S. Treasury securities   9,987    —    (825)   9,162 
Total debt securities   9,987    —    (825)   9,162 
                     
Mortgage-backed securities:                    
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   220,181    67    (38,460)   181,788 
Total mortgage-backed securities   220,181    67    (38,460)   181,788 
                     
Total held-to-maturity   230,168    67    (39,285)   190,950 

Total 

  $409,324   $67   $(71,444)  $337,947 

 

The following table presents the unrealized losses recognized on marketable equity securities for the periods indicated:

 

             
  

Three Months Ended  

March 31 

 
   2023   2022 
   (In thousands) 
Net losses recognized during the period on marketable equity securities  $—   $(276)
Net losses recognized during the period on equity securities sold during the period   —    — 
Unrealized losses recognized during the period on marketable equity securities still held at end of period  $—   $(276)

 

 

At March 31, 2023, U.S. Treasury securities with a fair value of $9.3 million, government-sponsored enterprise obligations with a fair value of $7.8 million and mortgage-backed securities with a fair value of $188.8 million were pledged to secure public deposits and for other purposes as required or permitted by law. The securities collateralizing public deposits are subject to fluctuations in fair value. We monitor the fair value of the collateral on a periodic basis, and pledge additional collateral if necessary based on changes in fair value of collateral or the balances of such deposits.

 

9

 

The amortized cost and fair value of available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities at March 31, 2023, by final maturity, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain issuers have the right to call or prepay obligations.

 

   Available-for-Sale   Held-to-Maturity 
   Amortized Cost   Fair Value   Amortized Cost   Fair Value 
   (In thousands) 
Debt securities:                    
Due in one year or less  $3,008   $2,965   $—   $— 
Due after one year through five years   270    270    9,989    9,294 
Due after five years through ten years   14,916    12,674    —    — 
Due after ten years   5,000    3,731    —    — 
Total debt securities   23,194    19,640    9,989    9,294 
                     
Mortgage-backed securities:                    
Due after one year through five years   535    508    —    — 
Due after five years through ten years   1,036    954    —    — 
Due after ten years   151,151    125,271    217,007    181,779 
Total mortgage-backed securities   152,722    126,733    217,007    181,779 
                     
Total securities  $175,916   $146,373   $226,996   $191,073 

 

Gross realized gains and losses on sales of available-for-sale securities for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:

 

             
   Three Months Ended 
   March 31, 
   2023   2022 
   (In thousands) 
Gross gains realized  $—   $— 
Gross losses realized   —    (4)
Net loss realized  $—   $(4)

 

Proceeds from the redemption of available-for-sale securities totaled $20,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022.

 

On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13 Financial 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 the current expected credit loss (“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 held-to-maturity debt securities. In addition, ASC 326 made changes to the accounting for available-for-sale debt securities.

 

10

 

Allowance for Credit Losses – Available-for-Sale Securities

 

The Company measures expected credit losses on available-for-sale debt securities based upon the gain or loss position of the security. For available-for-sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position which the Company does not intend to sell, and it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of the Company’s amortized cost, the Company evaluates qualitative criteria to determine any expected loss. This includes among other items the financial health of, and specific prospects for the issuer, including whether the issuer is in compliance with the terms and covenants of the security. The Company also evaluates quantitative criteria including determining whether there has been an adverse change in expected future cash flows of the security. Available-for-sale securities which are guaranteed by government agencies do not currently have an allowance for credit loss as the Company determined these securities are either backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government and/or there is an unconditional commitment to make interest payments and to return the principal investment in full to investors when a debt security reaches maturity. In assessing the Company’s investments in government-sponsored and U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities and government-sponsored enterprise obligations, the contractual cash flows of these investments are guaranteed by the respective government-sponsored enterprise; Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“FHLMC”), Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA”), Federal Farm Credit Bank (“FFCB”), or Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”). Accordingly, it is expected that the securities would not be settled at a price less than the par value of the Company’s investments. The Company will evaluate this position no less than annually, however, certain items which may cause the Company to change this methodology include legislative changes that remove a government-sponsored enterprise’s ability to draw funds from the U.S. government, or legislative changes to housing policy that reduce or eliminate the U.S. government’s implicit guarantee on such securities. Accrued interest receivable on available-for-sale securities guaranteed by government agencies totaled $411,000 at March 31, 2023 and is excluded from the estimate of credit losses. If the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security, an allowance for credit losses would be recorded, with a related charge to earnings, limited by the amount of the fair value of the security less its amortized cost. If the Company intends to sell the security or it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the debt security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the Company recognizes the entire difference between the amortized cost basis of the security and its fair value in earnings. Any impairment that has not been recorded through an allowance for credit loss is recognized in other comprehensive income. Accrued interest receivable on available-for-sale debt securities not guaranteed by government agencies totaled $78,000 at March 31, 2023 and is excluded from the estimate of credit losses. There were no allowance for credit losses established on available-for-sale debt securities during the three months ended March 31, 2023.

 

Allowance for Credit Losses – Held-to-Maturity Securities

 

The Company measures expected credit losses on held-to-maturity debt securities on a collective basis by security type and risk rating where available. The reserve for each pool is calculated based on a Probability of Default/Loss Given Default basis taking into consideration the expected life of each security. Held-to-maturity securities which are issued by the United States Treasury or are guaranteed by government agencies do not currently have an allowance for credit loss as the Company determined these securities are either backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government and/or there is an unconditional commitment to make interest payments and to return the principal investment in full to investors when a debt security reaches maturity. In assessing the Company’s investments in government-sponsored and U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities and government-sponsored enterprise obligations, the contractual cash flows of these investments are guaranteed by the respective government-sponsored enterprise; FHLMC, FNMA, FFCB, or FHLB. Accordingly, it is expected that the securities would not be settled at a price less than the par value of the Company’s investments. The Company will evaluate this position no less than annually, however, certain items which may cause the Company to change this methodology include legislative changes that remove a government-sponsored enterprise’s ability to draw funds from the U.S. government, or legislative changes to housing policy that reduce or eliminate the U.S. government’s implicit guarantee on such securities. Any expected credit losses on held-to-maturity securities would be presented as an allowance for credit loss. Accrued interest receivable on held-to-maturity securities totaled $463,000 at March 31, 2023 and is excluded from the estimate of credit losses. There were no allowance for credit losses established on held-to-maturity securities during the three months ended March 31, 2023.

 

At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, management attributed the unrealized losses to increases in current market yields compared to the yields at the time the investments were purchased by the Company and not due to credit quality. There was no credit loss during the three months ended March 31, 2023 or the year ended December 31, 2022. At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there was one available-for-sale corporate bond that was below investment grade. The Company reviewed the financial strength of this bond and has concluded that the amortized cost remains supported by the expected future cash flows of the security.

 

11

 

Information pertaining to securities with gross unrealized losses as of March 31, 2023 for which the Company did not recognize a provision for credit losses under CECL, and as of December 31, 2022, for which the Company did not deem to be impaired under its prior methodology, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous loss position, follows:

 

   March 31, 2023 
   Less Than Twelve Months   Over Twelve Months 
   Number of Securities   Fair Value   Gross Unrealized Loss   Depreciation from Amortized Cost Basis (%)   Number of Securities   Fair Value   Gross Unrealized Loss   Depreciation from Amortized Cost Basis (%) 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
Available-for-sale:                                
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   2   $1,257   $40    3.1%   68   $119,578   $24,581    17.1%
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   —    —    —    —    9    5,898    1,368    18.8 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   —    —    —    —    3    11,871    3,045    20.4 
Corporate bonds   2    4,534    465    9.3    1    2,965    44    1.5 
Total available-for-sale   4    5,791    505         81    140,312    29,038      
                                         
Held-to-maturity:                                        
U.S. Treasury securities   —    —    —    —%   2    9,294    695    7.0%
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   1    1,087    77    6.6    35    174,385    35,269    16.8 
Total held-to-maturity   1    1,087    77         37    183,679    35,964      
                                         
Total   5   $6,878   $582         118   $323,990   $65,002      

 

   December 31, 2022 
   Less Than Twelve Months   Over Twelve Months 
   Number of Securities   Fair Value   Gross Unrealized Loss   Depreciation from Amortized Cost Basis (%)   Number of Securities   Fair Value   Gross Unrealized Loss   Depreciation from Amortized Cost Basis (%) 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
Available-for-sale:                                
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   10   $9,133   $776    7.8%   60   $112,586   $26,050    18.8%
U.S. government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities   1    113    20    15.0    8    5,835    1,449    19.9 
Government-sponsored enterprise obligations   —    —    —    —    3    11,568    3,345    22.4 
Corporate bonds   3    7,493    519    6.5    —    —    —    — 
Total available-for-sale   14    16,739    1,315         71    129,989    30,844      
                                         
Held-to-maturity:                                        
U.S. Treasury securities   —    —    —    —%   2    9,162    825    8.3%
Government-sponsored mortgage-backed securities   6    18,911    2,116    10.1    31    157,947    36,344    18.7 
Total held-to-maturity   6    18,911    2,116         33    167,109    37,169      
                                         
Total   20   $35,650   $3,431         104   $297,098   $68,013      

 

 

12

 

5.        LOANS AND ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES

 

Major classifications of loans at the periods indicated were as follows:

 

  

March 31,

2023

  

December 31,

2022

 
   (In thousands) 
Commercial real estate  $1,079,664   $1,069,323 
           

Residential real estate: 

          
Residential one-to-four family   595,097    589,503 
Home equity   105,801    105,557 
Total residential real estate   700,898    695,060 
           
Commercial and industrial:          
Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans   2,129    2,274 
Commercial and industrial   215,971    217,574 
Total commercial and industrial   218,100    219,848 
           
Consumer   5,667    5,045 
Total gross loans   2,004,329    1,989,276 
Unamortized PPP loan fees   (99)   (109)
Unearned premiums and deferred loan fees and costs, net   2,269    2,233 
Total loans, net   2,006,499    1,991,400 
Allowance for credit losses(1)   (19,031)   (19,931)
Net loans  $1,987,468   $1,971,469 

 

 

(1)The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 on January 1, 2023 with a modified retrospective approach. Accordingly, at March 31, 2023, the allowance for credit losses was determined in accordance with ASC 326, “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses.”

 

Loans Serviced for Others.

 

The Company has transferred a portion of its originated commercial loans to participating lenders. The amounts transferred have been accounted for as sales and are therefore not included in our accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We continue to service the loans on behalf of the participating lenders. We share with participating lenders, on a pro-rata basis, any gains or losses that may result from a borrower’s lack of compliance with contractual terms of the loan. At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company was servicing commercial loans participated out to various other institutions totaling $71.2 million and $70.5 million, respectively.

 

Residential real estate mortgages are originated by the Company both for its portfolio and for sale into the secondary market. The Company may sell its loans to institutional investors such as the FHLMC. Under loan sale and servicing agreements with the investor, the Company generally continues to service the residential real estate mortgages. The Company pays the investor an agreed upon rate on the loan, which is less than the interest rate received from the borrower. The Company retains the difference as a fee for servicing the residential real estate mortgages. The Company capitalizes mortgage servicing rights at their fair value upon sale of the related loans, amortizes the asset over the estimated life of the serviced loan, and periodically assesses the asset for impairment. The significant assumptions used by a third party to estimate the fair value of capitalized servicing rights at March 31, 2023, include weighted average prepayment speed for the portfolio using the Public Securities Association Standard Prepayment Model (102 PSA), weighted average internal rate of return (10.01%), weighted average servicing fee (0.25%), and average cost to service loans ($83.53 per loan). The estimated fair value of capitalized servicing rights may vary significantly in subsequent periods primarily due to changing market interest rates, and their effect on prepayment speeds and discount rates. For the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company sold $277,000 in residential real estate mortgages with servicing retained and recorded gains on the sale of mortgages of $2,000 within non-interest income. There were no sales of residential real estate mortgages to the secondary market during the three months ended March 31, 2023.

 

13

 

At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company was servicing residential mortgage loans owned by investors totaling $77.6 million and $79.3 million, respectively. Servicing fee income of $50,000 and $53,000 was recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and is included in service charges and fees on the consolidated statements of net income.

 

A summary of the activity in the balances of mortgage servicing rights follows:

 

             
   Three Months Ended March 31, 
   2023   2022 
   (In thousands) 
Balance at the beginning of year:  $550   $693 
Capitalized mortgage servicing rights   —    2 
Amortization   (35)   (36)
Balance at the end of period  $515   $659 
Fair value at the end of period  $779   $813 

 

Loans are recorded at the principal amount outstanding, adjusted for charge-offs, unearned premiums and deferred loan fees and costs. Interest on loans is calculated using the effective yield method on daily balances of the principal amount outstanding and is credited to income on the accrual basis to the extent it is deemed collectable. Our general policy is to discontinue the accrual of interest when principal or interest payments are delinquent 90 days or more based on the contractual terms of the loan, or earlier if there are concerns regarding the collectability of the loan. Any unpaid amounts previously accrued on these loans are reversed from income. Subsequent cash receipts are applied to the outstanding principal balance or to interest income if, in the judgment of management, collection of the principal balance is not in question. Loans are returned to accrual status when they become current as to both principal and interest and perform in accordance with contractual terms for a period of at least six months, reducing the concern as to the collectability of principal and interest. Loan fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred, and the net fee or cost is recognized as an adjustment to interest income over the estimated average lives of the related loans.

 

Effect of New Financial Accounting Standards.

 

On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which requires the recognition of the allowance for credit losses be estimated using the 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 held-to-maturity debt securities. It also applies to off-balance sheet credit exposures not accounted for as insurance (loan commitments, standby letters of credit, financial guarantees, and other similar instruments) and net investments in leases recognized by a lessor in accordance with Topic 842 on leases. In addition, ASC 326 made changes to the accounting for available-for-sale debt securities. One such change is to require credit losses to be presented as an allowance rather than as a write-down on available-for-sale debt securities that are determined to have impairment related to credit losses.

 

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.

 

14

 

The following table illustrates the impact of ASC 326:

 

  

Pre-ASC 326 Adoption 

December 31, 2022 

  

As Reported Under ASC 326 

January 1, 2023 

   Impact of ASC 326 Adoption 
   (In thousands) 
Assets               
Loans(1)  $1,989,276   $1,991,389   $2,113 
Allowance for credit losses on loans(2)   (19,931)   (21,113)   (1,182)
Deferred tax asset   15,027    15,023    (4)
Liabilities               
Allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet exposures  $—   $(918)  $(918)
Shareholders’ Equity               
Retained earnings, net of tax  $(127,982)  $(127,991)  $(9)

 

 

 

(1)Purchase credit deteriorated (“PCD loans”) gross up of cost basis of loans totaled $422,000 for commercial real estate loans and $1,691,000 for commercial and industrial loans.

(2)Increase to allowance for credit losses on loans of $2,113,000 for PCD loans gross up and a decrease of $931,000 for pooled loans through retained earnings.

 

Allowance for Credit Losses.

 

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 $7.0 million at March 31, 2023 and is excluded from the estimate of credit losses.

 

The loan 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.

 

Commercial real estate loans. Loans in this segment include commercial real estate, multi-family dwellings, owner-occupied commercial real estate and income producing investment properties, as well as commercial construction loans for commercial development projects throughout New England. The underlying cash flows generated by the properties or operations can be adversely impacted by a downturn in the economy due to increased vacancy rates or diminished cash flows, which in turn, would have an effect on the credit quality in this segment. Management obtains financial information annually and continually monitors the cash flows of these loans.

 

Residential real estate loans. This portfolio segment consists of first mortgages, home equity loans, and home equity lines secured by one-to-four family residential properties. First mortgages may be underwritten to a maximum loan-to-value of 97% for owner-occupied homes, 90% for second homes and 85% for investment properties. Mortgages with loan-to-values greater than 80% require private mortgage insurance. We do not grant subprime loans. Home equity loans and lines are secured by first or second mortgages on one-to-four family owner-occupied properties. Equity loans and lines are underwritten to a maximum combined loan-to-value of 85% of the appraised value of the property. Underwriting approval is dependent on review of the borrower’s ability to repay and credit history in accordance with Westfield Bank’s policy. The overall health of the economy, including unemployment rates and housing pricing, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment.

 

15

 

Commercial and industrial loans. Loans in this segment include commercial business loans and are generally secured by assignments of corporate assets and personal guarantees of the business owners. Repayment is expected from the cash flows of the business. A weakened economy, and resultant decreased consumer spending, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment.

 

Consumer loans. Loans in this segment are both secured and unsecured and repayment is dependent on the credit quality of the individual borrower.

 

Discounted cash flow method (“DCF”)

 

In estimating the component of the allowance for credit losses for loans that share similar risk characteristics with other loans, such loans are segregated into loan classes. Loans are designated into loan classes based on loans pooled by product types and similar risk characteristics or areas of risk concentration. In determining the allowance for credit losses, we derive an estimated credit loss assumption from a model that categorizes loan pools based on loan type and purpose. This model calculates an expected loss percentage for each loan class by considering the probability of default, using life-of-loan analysis periods for all loan segments, and the historical severity of loss, based on the aggregate net lifetime losses incurred per loan class. The default and severity factors used to calculate the allowance for credit losses for loans that share similar risk characteristics with other loans are adjusted for differences between the historical period used to calculate historical default and loss severity rates and expected conditions over the remaining lives of the loans in the portfolio related to: (1) lending policies and procedures; (2) international, national, regional and local economic business conditions and developments that affect the collectability of the portfolio; (3) the nature and volume of the loan portfolio including the terms of the loans; (4) the experience, ability, and depth of the lending management and other relevant staff; (5) the volume and severity of past due and adversely classified loans and the volume of nonaccrual loans; (6) the quality of our loan review system and (7) the value of underlying collateral for collateralized loans. Additional factors include the existence and effect of any concentrations of credit, and changes in the level of such concentrations and the effect of external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated credit losses in the existing portfolio. Such factors are used to adjust the historical probabilities of default and severity of loss so that they reflect management expectation of future conditions based on a reasonable and supportable forecast. The Company uses regression analysis of historical internal and peer data to determine which variables are best suited to be economic variables utilized when modeling lifetime probability of default and loss given default. This analysis also determines how expected probability of default and loss given default will react to forecasted levels of the economic variables.

 

For all DCF models, management has determined that four quarters represents a reasonable and supportable forecast period and reverts back to a historical loss rate over four quarters on a straight-line basis. Other internal and external indicators of economic forecasts are also considered by management when developing the forecast metrics.

 

Individually evaluated financial assets

 

For a loan that does not share risk characteristics with other loans, expected credit loss is measured based on net realizable value, that is, the difference between the discounted value of the expected future cash flows, based on the original effective interest rate, and the amortized cost basis of the loan. For these loans, we recognize expected credit loss equal to the amount by which the net realizable value of the loan is less than the amortized cost basis of the loan (which is net of previous charge-offs and deferred loan fees and costs), except when the loan is collateral dependent, that is, when the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral. In these cases, expected credit loss is measured as the difference between the amortized cost basis of the loan and the fair value of the collateral. The fair value of the collateral is adjusted for the estimated cost to sell if repayment or satisfaction of a loan is dependent on the sale (rather than only on the operation) of the collateral.

 

16

 

Purchased Credit Deteriorated Loans

 

The Company has loans acquired with evidence of credit deterioration from Chicopee Bancorp, Inc. Prior to the adoption of CECL, these loans were accounted for under accounting guidance for purchased credit-impaired (“PCI”) loans. The Company did not elect the practical expedient to maintain pool accounting for these loans and will measure credit loss at the loan level.

 

Upon adoption of ASC 326, PCI loans are accounted for as purchase credit deteriorated (“PCD loans”). PCD loans are recorded at the amount paid. An allowance for credit losses is determined using the same methodology as other loans held for investment. The initial allowance for credit losses determined on a collective basis is allocated to individual loans. The sum of the loan’s purchase price and allowance for credit losses becomes its initial amortized cost basis. The difference between the initial amortized cost basis and the par value of the loan is a noncredit discount or premium, which is amortized into interest income over the life of the loan. Subsequent changes to the allowance for credit losses are recorded through credit loss expense.

 

Allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures, including unfunded loan commitments

 

The Company maintains a separate allowance for credit losses from off-balance-sheet credit exposures, including unfunded loan commitments, which is included in other liabilities on the balance sheet. Management estimates the amount of expected losses by calculating a commitment usage factor over the contractual period for exposures that are not unconditionally cancellable by the Company and applying the loss factors used in the ACL methodology to the results of the usage calculation to estimate the liability for credit losses related to unfunded commitments for each loan type. No credit loss estimate is reported for off-balance-sheet credit exposures that are unconditionally cancellable by the Company, such as undrawn amounts under such arrangements that may be drawn prior to the cancellation of the arrangement. The allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures is adjusted as credit loss expense. Categories of off-balance sheet credit exposures correspond to the loan portfolio segments described above. Management evaluates the need for a reserve on unfunded loan commitments in a manner consistent with loans held for investment. Upon adoption of ASU 2016-13 on January 1, 2023, the Company recorded a transition adjustment related to the reserve for unfunded loan commitments of $918,000, which is recorded in other liabilities.

 

An analysis of changes in the allowance for credit losses by segment for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and the allowance for loan losses for the three months ended March 31, 2022 is as follows:

 

   Commercial Real Estate   Residential Real Estate   Commercial and Industrial   Consumer   Unallocated   Total 
   (In thousands) 
Balance at December 31, 2021  $12,970   $3,964   $2,643   $197   $13   $19,787 
Provision (credit)   (639)   90    89    27    8    (425)
Charge-offs   (37)   (16)   (7)   (45)   —    (105)
Recoveries   —    30    1    20    —    51 
Balance at March 31, 2022  $12,294   $4,068   $2,726   $199   $21   $19,308 



17

 

 

   Commercial Real Estate   Residential Real Estate   Commercial and Industrial   Consumer   Unallocated   Total 
   (In thousands) 
Balance at December 31, 2022  $12,199   $4,312   $3,160   $245   $15   $19,931 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle (1)   3,989    (2,518)   (75)   (199)   (15)   1,182 
Adjusted Beginning Balance  $16,188   $1,794   $3,085    46    —   $21,113 
Provision (reversal) for credit losses   (349)   83    3    31    —    (232)
Charge-offs   (414)   —    (1,413)   (35)   —    (1,862)
Recoveries   —    —    1    11    —    12 
Balance at March 31, 2023 (2)  $15,425   $1,877   $1,676   $53   $—   $19,031 
                               
Allowance for credit losses for off-balance sheet exposures                              
Balance at December 31, 2022  $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $— 
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle   611    267    40    —    —    918 
Provision (reversal) for credit losses   (93)   (62)   (1)   —    —    (156)
Balance at March 31, 2023  $518   $205   $39   $—   $—   $762 

 

 

(1)Represents the net adjustment needed to reflect the cumulative day one impact pursuant to the Company’s adoption of ASU 2016-13 (i.e., cumulative effect adjustment related to the adoption of ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2023). The adjustment represents a $931,000 decrease to the allowance for loans attributable to the change in accounting methodology for estimating the allowance for loan losses resulting from the Company’s adoption of the standard. The adjustment also includes the adjustment needed to reflect the day one reclassification of the Company’s PCI loan balances to PCD loan balances and the associated gross-up of $2,113,000, pursuant to the Company’s adoption of ASU 2016-13.

 

(2)The balance of $7.0 million in accrued interest receivable is excluded from amortized cost and the calculation of the allowance for credit losses at March 31, 2023.

 

The $232,000 reversal for credit losses for loans was primarily a result of changes in the economic forecast. The $156,000 reversal for credit losses for off-balance sheet exposures was primarily due to a decrease of $12.9 million in unfunded commitments for the three months ended March 31, 2023.

 

The following table presents information pertaining to the allowance for credit losses by segment Pre-ASC 326 CECL adoption for the date indicated:

 

   Commercial Real Estate   Residential Real Estate   Commercial and Industrial   Consumer   Unallocated   Total 
   (In thousands) 
December 31, 2022                        
Amount of allowance for impaired loans  $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $— 
Amount of allowance for non-impaired loans   12,199    4,312    3,160    245    15    19,931 
Total allowance for loan losses  $12,199   $4,312   $3,160   $245   $15   $19,931 
                               
Impaired loans  $9,178   $3,623   $407   $—   $—   $13,208 
Non-impaired loans   1,056,886    689,776    219,163    5,045    —    1,970,870 
Impaired loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality   3,259    1,661    278    —    —    5,198 
Total loans  $1,069,323   $695,060   $219,848   $5,045   $—   $1,989,276 

 

18

 

Past Due Loans.

 

The following tables present an age analysis of past due loans as of the dates indicated:

 

   30 – 59 Days Past Due   60 – 89 Days Past Due   90 Days or  More Past Due  

Total  

Past Due Loans 

  

Total

Current Loans 

  

Total 

Loans 

   Nonaccrual Loans 
   (In thousands) 
March 31, 2023                            
Commercial real estate  $175   $26   $526   $727   $1,078,937   $1,079,664   $1,429 
                                    
Residential real estate:                                    
Residential one-to-four family   1,089    279    774    2,142    592,955    595,097    3,921 
Home equity   97    —    51    148    105,653    105,801    174 
Total   1,186    279    825    2,290    698,608    700,898    4,095 
                                    
Commercial and industrial    —    1    26    27    218,073    218,100    270 
Consumer   2    —    —    2    5,665    5,667    — 
                                    
Total loans

  $1,363   $306   $1,377   $3,046   $2,001,283   $2,004,329   $5,794 

 

                             
December 31, 2022                            
Commercial real estate  $—   $211   $1,404   $1,615   $1,067,708   $1,069,323   $1,933 
                                    
Residential real estate:                                   
Residential one-to-four family   1,768    100    414    2,282    587,221    589,503    3,290 
Home equity   209    97    51    357    105,200    105,557    181 
Total   1,977    197    465    2,639    692,421    695,060    3,471 
                                    
Commercial and industrial   170    10    22    202    219,646    219,848    290 
Consumer   13    —    —    13    5,032    5,045    — 
                                    
Total loans  $2,160   $418   $1,891   $4,469   $1,984,807   $1,989,276   $5,694 

 

At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, total past due loans totaled $3.0 million, or 0.15% of total loans, and $4.5 million, or 0.22% of total loans, respectively.

 

Nonaccrual Loans.

 

Accrual of interest on loans is generally discontinued when contractual payment of principal or interest becomes past due 90 days or, if in management’s judgment, reasonable doubt exists as to the full timely collection of interest. Exceptions may be made if the loan has matured and is in the process of renewal or is well-secured and in the process of collection. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, interest accruals cease and uncollected accrued interest is reversed and charged against current interest income. Interest payments on nonaccrual loans are generally applied to principal. If collection of the principal is reasonably assured, interest payments are recognized as income on the cash basis. Loans are generally returned to accrual status when principal and interest payments are current, full collectability of principal and interest is reasonably assured and a consistent record of at least six consecutive months of performance has been achieved.

 

19

 

The following table presents information regarding nonaccrual loans as of the date indicated:

 

          

  

     
   As of March 31, 2023(1) 
   Nonaccrual Loans with Allowance for Credit Loss   Nonaccrual Loans Without Allowance for Credit Loss  

Total Nonaccrual Loans 

   Amortized Cost of Loans Greater than 90 Days Past Due and Still Accruing 
   (In thousands) 
Commercial real estate  $—   $1,429   $1,429   $— 
Residential real estate:                    
Residential   —    3,921    3,921    — 
Home equity   —    174    174    — 
Commercial and industrial   3    267    270    — 
Consumer   —    —    —    — 
Total loans  $3   $5,791   $5,794   $— 

 

 

(1)The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 as of January 1, 2023.

 

At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, nonaccrual loans totaled $5.8 million, or 0.29% of total loans, and $5.7 million, or 0.29%, of total loans, respectively. The Company did not recognize any interest income on nonaccrual loans for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were no commitments to lend additional funds to any borrower on nonaccrual status.

 

Individually Evaluated Loans.

 

In connection with the adoption of ASU-2106-13, the Company no longer provides information on impaired loans. A loan is considered individually evaluated when, based on current information and events, the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment, both principal and interest, is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral. At March 31, 2023, the Company had $889,000 in individually evaluated commercial loans, collateralized by business assets, and $18.0 million in individual evaluated real estate loans, collateralized by real estate property.

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s individually evaluated loans by class as of March 31, 2023:

 

   Recorded Investment   Related Allowance 
   (In thousands) 
With no related allowance recorded:          
Commercial real estate  $11,970   $— 
Residential real estate:          
Residential one-to-four family   5,853    — 
Home equity   189    — 
Commercial and industrial   372    — 
Consumer   —    — 
Loans with no related allowance recorded  $18,384   $— 
           
With an allowance recorded:          
Commercial real estate  $—   $— 
Residential real estate:          
Residential real estate   —    — 
Home equity   —    — 
Commercial and industrial   517    286 
Consumer   —    — 
Loans with an allowance recorded  $517   $286 
Total individually evaluated loans  $18,901   $286 

 

20

 

Pre-ASC 326 CECL adoption impaired loan information as of December 31, 2022 is as follows:

 

   At December 31, 2022   Year Ended December 31, 2022 
   Recorded Investment   Unpaid Principal Balance   Related Allowance   Average Recorded Investment   Interest Income Recognized 
   (In thousands) 
Impaired Loans (1)                         
Commercial real estate  $12,437   $13,795   $—   $13,427   $248 
Residential real estate:                         
Residential one-to-four family   5,088    5,823    —    4,792    59 
Home equity   196    214    —    172    1 
Commercial and industrial   685    3,095    —    891    66 
Consumer   —    —    —    3    — 
Total impaired loans  $18,406   $22,927   $—   $19,285   $374 

 

(1)Includes loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality and performing troubled debt restructurings.

 

Modified Loans.

 

Loans are designated as modified when, as part of an agreement to modify the original contractual terms of the loan as a result of financial difficulties of the borrower, the Company grants the borrower a concession on the terms that would not otherwise be considered. Typically, such concessions may consist of a reduction in interest rate to a below market rate, taking into account the credit quality of the note, extension of additional credit based on receipt of adequate collateral, or a deferment or reduction of payments (principal or interest) which materially alters the Company’s position or significantly extends the note’s maturity date, such that the present value of cash flows to be received is materially less than those contractually established at the loan’s origination.

 

There were no loan modifications during the three months ended March 31, 2023 and for the year ended December 31, 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, no modified loans defaulted (defined as 30 days or more past due) within 12 months of restructuring. There were no charge-offs on modified loans during the three months ended March 31, 2023 or 2022.

 

The following is a summary of loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality in the Chicopee Bancorp, Inc. acquisition Pre-ASC 326 CECL adoption.

 

    Contractual Required Payments Receivable   Cash Expected To Be Collected   Non- Accretable Discount   Accretable Yield   Loans Receivable 
    (In thousands) 
Balance at December 31, 2021   $12,134   $9,430   $2,704   $2,499   $6,931 
Collections    (1,792)   (1,576)   (216)   (213)   (1,363)
Dispositions    (589)   (439)   (150)   (69)   (370)
Balance at December 31, 2022   $9,753   $7,415   $2,338   $2,217   $5,198 

 

Credit Quality Information.

 

The Company utilizes an eight-grade internal loan rating system for commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans. Performing residential real estate, home equity and consumer loans are grouped with “Pass” rated loans. Nonperforming residential real estate, home equity and consumer loans are monitored individually for impairment and risk rated as “substandard.”

 

21

 

Loans rated 1 – 4: Loans rated 1-4 represent groups of loans that are not subject to adverse criticism as defined in regulatory guidance. Loans in these groups exhibit characteristics that represent acceptable risk.

 

Loans rated 5: Loans rated 5 are considered “Special Mention” and may exhibit potential credit weaknesses or downward trends and are being monitored by management. Loans in this category are currently protected based on collateral and repayment capacity and do not constitute undesirable credit risk, but have potential weakness that may result in deterioration of the repayment process at some future date. This classification is used if a negative trend is evident in the obligor’s financial situation. Special mention loans do not sufficiently expose the Company to warrant adverse classification.

 

Loans rated 6: Loans rated 6 are considered “Substandard.” A loan is classified as substandard if the borrower exhibits a well-defined weakness and may be inadequately protected by the current net worth and cash flow capacity to pay the current debt.

 

Loans rated 7: Loans rated 7 are considered “Doubtful.” Loans classified as doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation of the loan highly questionable and improbable. The possibility of some loss is extremely high, but because of specific pending factors that may work to the advantage and strengthening of the asset, its classification as an estimated loss is deferred until its more exact status may be determined.

 

Loans rated 8: Loans rated 8 are considered uncollectible. The loss classification does not mean that the asset has absolutely no recovery or salvage value, but rather that it is not practical or desirable to defer writing off the asset because recovery and collection time may be affected in the future.

 

On an annual basis, or more often if needed, we formally review the ratings on all commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans. In addition, management utilizes delinquency reports, the criticized loan report and other loan reports to monitor credit quality. In addition, at least on an annual basis, the Company contracts with an external loan review company to review the internal credit ratings assigned to loans in the commercial loan portfolio on a pre-determined schedule, based on the type, size, rating, and overall risk of the loan. During the course of its review, the third party examines a sample of loans, including new loans, existing relationships over certain dollar amounts and classified assets.

 

22

 

The following table details the amortized cost balances of the Company’s loan portfolio presented by risk rating and origination year as of the periods presented. In addition, for residential one-to-four, home equity and consumer loans, payment activity has been included as an additional credit quality indicator:

 

                                     
   Term Loan Origination by Year   Revolving Loans     
   March 31, 2023   2022   2021   2020   2019   Prior   Revolving Loans   Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans   Total 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
Commercial Real Estate:                                             
Pass (Rated 1- 4)  $13,865   $176,853   $220,537   $101,212   $89,646   $348,403   $97,226   $794   $1,048,536 
Special Mention (Rated 5)   —    229    1,192    3,923    1,624    6,903    1,853    —    15,724 
Substandard (Rated 6)   —    —    —    9,775    2,013    3,616    —    —    15,404 
Total commercial real estate loans  $13,865   $177,082   $221,729   $114,910   $93,283   $358,922   $99,079   $794   $1,079,664 
                                              
Current period gross charge-offs  $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $414   $—   $—   $414 
                                              
Residential One-to-Four Family:                                             
Pass (Rated 1- 4)  $10,848   $84,058   $96,747   $133,471   $56,932   $194,852   $13,206   $—   $590,114 
Special Mention (Rated 5)   —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    — 
Substandard (Rated 6)   —    447    —    346    —    4,190    —    —    4,983 
Total residential one-to-four family  $10,848   $84,505   $96,747   $133,817   $56,932   $199,042   $13,206   $—   $595,097 
                                              
Current period gross charge-offs  $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $— 
                                              
Payment Performance:                                             
Performing  $10,848   $84,058   $96,747   $133,471   $56,932   $195,914   $13,206   $—   $591,176 
Nonperforming   —    447    —    346    —    3,128    —    —    3,921 
                                              
Home Equity:                                             
Pass (Rated 1- 4)  $1,858   $12,329   $7,482   $7,823   $6,205   $8,509   $58,986   $2,307   $105,499 
Special Mention (Rated 5)   —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    — 
Substandard (Rated 6)   —    —    —    —    —    51    222    29    302 
Total home equity loans  $1,858   $12,329   $7,482   $7,823   $6,205   $8,560   $59,208   $2,336   $105,801 
                                              
Current period gross charge-offs  $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $— 
                                              
Payment Performance:                                             
Performing  $1,858   $12,329   $7,482   $7,823   $6,205   $8,509   $59,114   $2,307   $105,627 
Nonperforming   —    —    —    —    —    51    94    29    174 

 

23

 

                                     
   Term Loans Originated by Year   Revolving Loans     
   March 31, 2023   2022   2021   2020   2019   Prior   Revolving Loans   Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans   Total 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
Commercial and Industrial:                                             
Pass (Rated 1- 4)  $10,924   $40,322   $30,170   $23,935   $21,394   $11,591   $54,899   $74   $193,309 
Special Mention (Rated 5)   —    —    808    1,551    —    677    2,065    —    5,101 
Substandard (Rated 6)   —    36    1,669    9,325    1,421    373    6,866    —    19,690 
Total commercial and industrial loans  $10,924   $40,358   $32,647   $34,811   $22,815   $12,641   $63,830   $74   $218,100 
                                              
Current period gross charge-offs  $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $220   $—   $1,193   $1,413 
                                              
Consumer:                                             
Pass (Rated 1- 4)  $1,132   $2,060   $751   $514   $198   $278   $713   $3   $5,649 
Special Mention (Rated 5)   —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    — 
Substandard (Rated 6)   —    —    —    —    —    18    —    —    18 
Total consumer loans  $1,132   $2,060   $751   $514   $198   $296   $713   $3   $5,667 
                                              
Current period gross charge-offs  $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $—   $3   $32   $35 
                                              
Payment Performance:                                             
Performing  $1,132   $2,060   $751   $514   $198   $296   $713   $3   $5,667 
Nonperforming   —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    — 

 

The following table presents our loans by risk rating as of December 31, 2022 Pre-ASC 326 CECL adoption:

 

   Commercial Real Estate   Residential 1-4 Family   Home Equity   Commercial and Industrial   Consumer   Total 
   (In thousands) 
December 31, 2022                        
Pass (Rated 1 - 4)  $1,036,337   $585,292   $105,248   $193,415   $5,027   $1,925,319 
Special Mention (Rated 5)   16,035    —    —    5,623    —    21,658 
Substandard (Rated 6)   16,951    4,211    309    20,810    18    42,299 
Total  $1,069,323   $589,503   $105,557   $219,848   $5,045   $1,989,276 

 

 

24

 

6. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES

 

Goodwill

 

At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company’s goodwill was related to the acquisition of Chicopee Bancorp, Inc. in October 2016. There was no goodwill impairment recorded during the three months ended March 31, 2023 or the year ended December 31, 2022. Annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances warrant such evaluation, the Company evaluates its goodwill for impairment.

 

Core Deposit Intangible

 

In connection with the acquisition of Chicopee Bancorp, Inc., the Bank recorded a core deposit intangible of $4.5 million which is amortized over twelve years using the straight-line method. Amortization expense was $94,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and $94,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022. At March 31, 2023, future amortization of the core deposit intangible totaled $375,000 for each of the next five years and $219,000 thereafter.

 

7. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

 

Restricted Stock Awards.

 

In May 2014, the Company’s shareholders approved the 2014 Omnibus Incentive Plan, a stock-based compensation plan (the “2014 Plan”). Under the 2014 Plan, up to 516,000 shares of the Company’s common stock were reserved for grants of stock awards, including stock options and restricted stock, which may be granted to any officer, key employee or non-employee director of WNEB. Any shares that are not issued because vesting requirements are not met were available for future issuance under the 2014 Plan.

 

On an annual basis, the Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) approves long-term incentive awards out of the 2014 Plan, whereby shares will be granted to eligible participants of the Company that are nominated by the Chief Executive Officer and approved by the Committee, with vesting over a three-year term for employees and a one-year term for directors. Annual employee grants provide for a periodic award that is both performance and time-based and is designed to recognize the executive’s responsibilities, reward performance and leadership and as a retention tool. The objective of the award is to align compensation for the named executive officers and directors over a multi-year period directly with the interests of our shareholders by motivating and rewarding creation and preservation of long-term financial strength, shareholder value and relative shareholder return.

 

In February 2020, 120,053 shares were granted. Of the 120,053 shares, 69,898 shares were time-based, with 19,760 vesting in one year and 50,138 vesting ratably over a three-year period. The remaining 50,155 shares granted are performance-based and are subject to the achievement of the 2020 long-term incentive performance metrics, with 50% of the performance-based shares vesting for each performance metric. The primary performance metrics for the 2020 grants are return on equity and earnings per share. Performance shares will be earned based upon how the Company performs relative to threshold, target and maximum absolute goals (i.e. Company-specific, not relative to a peer index) on an annual performance period for return on equity metrics and for a three-year cumulative performance period for earnings per share, but will be distributed at the end of the three-year period as earned.

 

The threshold, target and stretch metrics under the 2020 grants are as follows:

 

                     
   Return on Equity Metrics 
Performance Period Ending  Threshold   Target   Stretch 
December 31, 2020   5.00%   5.48%   6.00%
December 31, 2021   5.62%   6.24%   6.86%
December 31, 2022   6.29%   6.99%   7.69%

 

25

 

 

                     
   Earnings Per Share Metrics 
Performance Period Ending  Threshold   Target   Stretch 
Three-year Cumulative Diluted Earnings Per Share  $1.50   $1.65   $1.80 

 

Eligible participants will be able to earn between 50% (“threshold” performance), 100% (“target” performance) and 150% (“maximum” performance). As of December 31, 2022, the three-year performance period for the 2020 grants ended. The 2020 long term incentive plan included a “catch-up” provision allowing for any unearned performance-based shares from the 2020 and 2021 performance periods to be earned at the end of the three-year period based on the final year performance. Of the original 50,155 performance-based shares granted in 2020 based on achieving target, 59,268 performance-based shares were eligible for vesting during the first quarter of 2023 based on achieving stretch.

 

The fair market value of shares awarded is based on the market price at the grant date, recorded as unearned compensation and amortized over the applicable vesting period. Performance-based metrics are monitored on a quarterly basis in order to compare actual results to the performance metric, with any necessary adjustments being recognized through share-based compensation expense and unearned compensation.

 

In May 2021, the Company’s shareholders approved the 2021 Omnibus Incentive Plan, a stock-based compensation plan (the “2021 Plan”). Under the 2021 Plan, up to 700,000 shares of the Company’s common stock were reserved for grants of stock awards, including stock options and restricted stock, which may be granted to any officer, key employee or non-employee director of the Company. Any shares that are not issued because vesting requirements are not met will be available for future issuance under the 2021 Plan.

 

In May 2021, 122,362 shares were granted. Of the 122,362 shares, 61,181 shares were time-based, vesting ratably over a three-year period. The remaining 61,181 shares granted are performance-based and are subject to the achievement of the 2021 long-term incentive performance metrics, with 50% of the performance-based shares vesting for each performance metric. The primary performance metrics for the 2021 grants are return on equity and earnings per share. Performance shares will be earned based upon how the Company performs relative to threshold, target and maximum absolute goals (i.e. Company-specific, not relative to a peer index) on an annual performance period for return on equity metrics and for a three-year cumulative performance period for earnings per share, but will be distributed at the end of the three-year period as earned.

 

The threshold, target and stretch metrics under the 2021 grants are as follows:

 

                     
   Return on Equity Metrics 
Performance Period Ending  Threshold   Target   Stretch 
December 31, 2021   5.63%   6.25%   7.50%
December 31, 2022   5.85%   6.50%   7.80%
December 31, 2023   6.08%   6.75%   8.10%

 

                     
   Earnings Per Share Metrics 
Performance Period Ending  Threshold   Target   Stretch 
Three-year Cumulative Diluted Earnings Per Share  $1.58   $1.97   $2.36 
                

 

In March 2022, 137,151 shares were granted. Of the 137,151 shares, 77,463 shares were time-based, with 17,775 vesting in one year and 59,688 vesting ratably over a three-year period. The remaining 59,688 shares granted are performance-based and are subject to the achievement of the 2022 long-term incentive performance metrics, with 50% of the performance-based shares vesting for each performance metric. The primary performance metrics for the 2022 grants are return on equity and earnings per share. Performance shares will be earned based upon how the Company performs relative to threshold, target and maximum absolute goals (i.e. Company-specific, not relative to a peer index) on an annual performance period for return on equity metrics and for a three-year cumulative performance period for earnings per share, but will be distributed at the end of the three-year period as earned.

 

26

 

 

The threshold, target and stretch metrics under the 2022 grants are as follows:

 

                     
   Return on Equity Metrics 
Performance Period Ending  Threshold   Target   Stretch 
December 31, 2022   7.79%   8.20%   8.61%
December 31, 2023   7.93%   8.35%   8.77%
December 31, 2024   8.03%   8.45%   8.87%

 

                     
   Earnings Per Share Metrics 
Performance Period Ending  Threshold   Target   Stretch 
Three-year Cumulative Diluted Earnings Per Share  $2.35   $2.61   $2.85 
                

 

In March 2023, 139,196 shares were granted. Of the 139,196 shares, 78,697 shares were time-based, with 18,198 vesting in one year and 60,499 vesting ratably over a three-year period. The remaining 60,499 shares granted are performance-based and are subject to the achievement of the 2023 long-term incentive performance metrics, with 50% of the performance-based shares vesting for each performance metric. The primary performance metrics for the 2023 grants are return on equity and earnings per share. Performance shares will be earned based upon how the Company performs relative to threshold, target and maximum absolute goals (i.e. Company-specific, not relative to a peer index) on an annual performance period for return on equity metrics and for a three-year cumulative performance period for earnings per share, but will be distributed at the end of the three-year period as earned.

 

The threshold, target and stretch metrics under the 2023 grants are as follows:

 

                     
   Return on Equity Metrics 
Performance Period Ending  Threshold   Target   Stretch 
December 31, 2023   8.00%   8.45%   8.85%
December 31, 2024   8.75%   9.25%   9.75%
December 31, 2025   9.00%   9.50%   10.00%

 

                     
   Earnings Per Share Metrics 
Performance Period Ending  Threshold   Target   Stretch 
Three-year Cumulative Diluted Earnings Per Share  $2.39   $2.65   $2.89 
                

 

At March 31, 2023, there were 304,033 remaining shares available to grant under the 2021 Plan.

 

A summary of the status of restricted stock awards at March 31, 2023 and 2022 is presented below:

 

   Shares  

Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

($)

 
Balance at December 31, 2022   206,092    8.85 
Shares granted   158,957    9.79 
Shares vested   (59,270)   9.11 
Balance at March 31, 2023   305,779    9.29 

 

27

 

 

   Shares  

Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

($)

 
Balance at December 31, 2021   213,381    8.91 
Shares granted   144,440    9.14 
Shares forfeited   (6,651)   8.66 
Shares vested   (60,009)   9.77 
Balance at March 31, 2022   291,161    8.85 

 

We recorded total expense for restricted stock awards of $529,000 and $301,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

 

8. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS AND LONG-TERM DEBT

 

We utilize short-term borrowings and long-term debt as additional sources of funds to finance our lending and investing activities and to provide liquidity for daily operations. Total borrowing capacity includes borrowing arrangements at the FHLB, the Federal Reserve Bank (“FRB”), and borrowing arrangements with correspondent banks.

 

Short-term borrowings can consist of FHLB advances with an original maturity of less than one year, overnight Ideal Way line of credit advances and other borrowings held as collateral for customer swap arrangements. Other borrowings totaled $5.5 million with a weighted average rate of 4.83% at March 31, 2023, compared to $6.4 million with a weighted average rate of 4.33% at December 31, 2022. In addition, short-term borrowings issued by the FHLB were $93.5 million with a weighted average rate of 4.89%, compared to $35.0 million with a weighted average rate of 4.38% at December 31, 2022.

 

FHLB advances provide more pricing and option alternatives for particular asset/liability needs. The FHLB provides a central credit facility primarily for member institutions. As an FHLB member, the Company is required to own capital stock of the FHLB, calculated periodically based primarily on its level of borrowings from the FHLB. FHLB borrowings are secured by certain securities from the Company’s investment portfolio not otherwise pledged as well as certain residential real estate and commercial real estate loans. Advances are made under several different credit programs with different lending standards, interest rates and range of maturities. This relationship is an integral component of the Company’s asset-liability management program. At March 31, 2023, the Bank had $281.6 million in additional borrowing capacity from the FHLB.

 

The Company also has an available overnight Ideal Way line of credit with the FHLB of $9.5 million. Interest on this line of credit is payable at a rate determined and reset by the FHLB on a daily basis. The outstanding principal is due daily but the portion not repaid will be automatically renewed. As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were no advances outstanding under this line.

 

The Company has an available line of credit of $53.4 million with the FRB Discount Window at an interest rate determined and reset on a daily basis. In addition, the Company has $71.5 million in available borrowing capacity with the FRB under the Bank Term Funding Program (the “BTFP”). Borrowings from the FRB Discount Window and the BTFP are secured by certain securities from the Company’s investment portfolio not otherwise pledged. As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were no advances outstanding under either of these lines.

 

The Company also has pre-established, non-collateralized overnight borrowing arrangements with large national and regional correspondent banks to provide additional overnight and short-term borrowing capacity for the Company. The Company has a $15.0 million line of credit with a correspondent bank and a $50.0 million line of credit with another correspondent bank, both at an interest rate determined and reset on a daily basis. As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were no advances outstanding under these lines.

 

28

 

 

Long-term debt consists of FHLB advances with an original maturity of one year or more. At March 31, 2023, we had $31.2 million in long-term debt with the FHLB, compared to $1.2 million in long-term debt with the FHLB at December 31, 2022.

 

9. SUBORDINATED DEBT

 

On April 20, 2021, 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. At March 31, 2023, $19.7 million aggregate principle amount of the Notes was outstanding.

 

Unless earlier redeemed, the Notes mature on May 1, 2031. 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 System (the “Federal Reserve”). The Notes were designed to qualify as Tier 2 capital under the Federal Reserve’s capital adequacy regulations.

 

The Notes are presented net of issuance costs of $318,000 as of March 31, 2023, which are being amortized into interest expense over the life of the Notes. Amortization of issuance costs into interest expense was $9,000 and $10,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

 

10. PENSION BENEFITS

 

The Board of Directors previously announced the termination of the Westfield Bank Defined Benefit Pension 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. The Company expects to receive regulatory approval to terminate the DB Plan in the second quarter of 2023. On April 11, 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, and on April 14, 2023, the DB Plan funded a $6.3 million premium to purchase annuity contracts to transfer its remaining liabilities under the DB Plan, for those participants who do not opt for a one-time lump sum payment.

 

In August 2022, the DB Plan’s assets were reallocated into short-and-long duration fixed income pooled separate investment accounts offered by the Principal Life Insurance Company. The overall investment objective is to preserve principal and protect DB Plan assets from market volatility ahead of the DB Plan settlement during the second quarter of 2023. The following table provides information regarding net pension benefit costs for the period shown:

 

  

Three Months Ended

March 31, 2022

 
   (In thousands) 
Service cost  $334 
Interest cost   313 
Expected return on assets   (427)
Amortization of actuarial loss   158 
Net periodic pension cost  $378 

 

 

29

 

11. DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

 

Risk Management Objective of Using Derivatives.

 

The Company is exposed to certain risks arising from both our business operations and economic conditions. We principally manage our exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of our core business activities. We manage economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity, and credit risk, primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of our assets and liabilities and the use of derivative financial instruments. Specifically, we entered into derivative financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the receipt or payment of future known and uncertain cash amounts, the value of which are determined by interest rates. Our derivative financial instruments are used to manage differences in the amount, timing, and duration of our known or expected cash receipts and our known or expected cash payments principally related to certain variable rate loan assets and variable rate borrowings.

 

The following table presents information about interest rate swaps at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

 

  Notional   Weighted Average   Weighted Average Rate   Estimated Fair 
March 31, 2023  Amount   Maturity   Receive   Pay   Value 
   (In thousands)   (In years)           (In thousands) 
Non-hedging derivatives:                         
Loan-level swaps – dealer  $37,505    9.5    6.54%   3.17%  $5,344 
Loan-level swaps – borrower   37,505    9.5    3.17%   6.54%   (5,344)
Total  $75,010                  $0 

 

December 31, 2022  Notional   Weighted Average   Weighted Average Rate   Estimated Fair 
   Amount   Maturity   Receive   Pay   Value 
   (In thousands)   (In years)           (In thousands) 
Non-hedging derivatives:                         
Loan-level swaps – dealer  $37,767    9.8    4.42%   3.17%  $6,343 
Loan-level swaps – borrower   37,767    9.8    3.17%   4.42%   (6,343)
Total  $75,534                  $0 

 

Non-hedging Derivatives.

 

Derivatives not designated as hedges are not speculative, but rather result from a service the Company provides to certain customers. The Company executes loan-level derivative products such as interest-rate swap agreements with commercial banking customers to aid them in managing their interest-rate risk by converting floating-rate loan payments to fixed-rate loan payments. The Company concurrently enters into offsetting swaps with a third-party financial institution, effectively minimizing the Company’s net risk exposure resulting from such transactions. The third-party financial institution exchanges the customer’s fixed-rate loan payments for floating-rate loan payments. As the interest-rate swap agreements associated with this program do not meet hedge accounting requirements, changes in the fair value are recognized directly in earnings.

 

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Fair Values of Derivative Instruments on the Balance Sheet.

 

The table below presents the fair value of our derivative financial instruments designated as non-hedging instruments as well as our classification on the balance sheet as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

 

March 31, 2023  Asset Derivatives    Liability Derivatives  
   Balance Sheet Location  Fair Value   Balance Sheet Location  Fair Value 
   (In thousands)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:              
Interest rate swap – with customer counterparties     $0      $5,344 
Interest rate swap – with dealer counterparties      5,344       0 
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments  Other Assets  $5,344   Other Liabilities  $5,344 

 

  Asset Derivatives    Liability Derivatives  
December 31, 2022  Balance Sheet Location  Fair Value   Balance Sheet Location  Fair Value 
   (In thousands)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:              
Interest rate swap – with customer counterparties     $0      $6,343 
Interest rate swap – with dealer counterparties      6,343       0 
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments  Other Assets  $6,343   Other Liabilities  $6,343 

 

 

Effect of Derivative Instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Net Income and Changes in Shareholders’ Equity.

 

There were no gains or losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income during the three months ended March 31, 2023 or 2022. The Company no longer has any outstanding cash flow hedges.

 

Credit-risk-related Contingent Features

 

By using derivative financial instruments, we expose ourselves to credit risk. Credit risk is the risk of failure by the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes us, which creates credit risk for us. When the fair value of a derivative is negative, we owe the counterparty and, therefore, it does not possess credit risk. The credit risk in derivative instruments is mitigated by entering into transactions with highly-rated counterparties that we believe to be creditworthy and by limiting the amount of exposure to each counterparty.

 

We have agreements with our derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if we default on any of our indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then we could also be declared in default on our derivative obligations. We also have agreements with certain of our derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if we fail to maintain our status as well capitalized, then the counterparty could terminate the derivative positions and we would be required to settle our obligations under the agreements. Certain of our agreements with our derivative counterparties contain provisions where if a formal administrative action by a federal or state regulatory agency occurs that materially changes our creditworthiness in an adverse manner, we may be required to fully collateralize our obligations under the derivative instrument.

 

At March 31, 2023, we had minimum collateral posting thresholds with certain of our derivative counterparties. As of March 31, 2023, we were not required to post collateral under these agreements because we did not have any derivatives in a liability position with those counterparties.

 

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12. FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

 

Determination of Fair Value.

 

We use fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. The fair value of a financial instrument is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value is best determined based upon quoted market prices. However, in many instances, there are no quoted market prices for our various financial instruments. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. Accordingly, the fair value estimates may not be realized in an immediate settlement of the instrument.

 

Methods and assumptions for valuing our financial instruments are set forth below. Estimated fair values are calculated based on the value without regard to any premium or discount that may result from concentrations of ownership of a financial instrument, possible tax ramifications or estimated transaction cost.

 

Securities. The securities measured at fair value in Level 1 are based on quoted market prices in an active exchange market. All other securities are measured at fair value in Level 2 and are based on pricing models that consider standard input factors such as observable market data, benchmark yields, interest rate volatilities, broker/dealer quotes, credit spreads and new issue data. These securities include government-sponsored enterprise obligations, state and municipal obligations, corporate bonds, residential mortgage-backed securities guaranteed and sponsored by the U.S. government or an agency thereof. Fair value measurements are obtained from a third-party pricing service and are not adjusted by management.

 

Interest rate swaps. The valuation of our interest rate swaps is obtained from a third-party pricing service and is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. The pricing analysis is based on observable inputs for the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity and interest rate curves. We have determined that the majority of the inputs used to value our interest rate derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis.

 

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:

 

                             
   March 31, 2023 
   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Assets:  (In thousands) 
Available-for-sale securities  $—   $146,373   $—   $146,373 
Marketable equity securities   6,309    —    —    6,309 
Interest rate swaps   —    5,344    —    5,344 
Total assets  $6,309   $151,717   $—   $158,026 
                     
Liabilities:                    
Interest rate swaps  $—   $5,344   $—   $5,344 
                     

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   December 31, 2022 
   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Assets:  (In thousands) 
Available-for-sale securities  $—   $146,997   $—   $146,997 
Marketable equity securities   6,237    —    —    6,237 
Interest rate swaps   —    6,343    —    6,343 
Total assets  $6,237   $153,340   $—   $159,577 
                     
Liabilities:                    
Interest rate swaps  $—   $6,343   $—   $6,343 
                     

 

There were no transfers to or from Level 1 and 2 for assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

 

Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis.

 

We may also be required, from time to time, to measure certain other financial assets at fair value on a nonrecurring basis in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. These adjustments to fair value usually result from application of lower-of-cost-or-market accounting or write-downs of individual assets. The following table summarizes the fair value hierarchy used to determine the carrying values of the related assets as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

 

                         
       Three Months Ended 
   At March 31, 2023   March 31, 2023 
               Total 
   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Losses 
   (In thousands)   (In thousands) 
Impaired Loans  $—   $—   $267   $1,828 

 

       Three Months Ended 
   At December 31, 2022   March 31, 2022 
               Total 
   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Losses 
   (In thousands)   (In thousands) 
Impaired Loans  $—   $—   $877   $— 

 

The amount of impaired loans represents the carrying value, net of the related write-down or valuation allowance of impaired loans for which adjustments are based on the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral.  The fair value of impaired loans with specific allocations of the allowance for loan losses is generally based on real estate appraisals performed by independent licensed or certified appraisers.  These appraisals may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach.  Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available.  Management will discount appraisals as deemed necessary based on the date of the appraisal and new information deemed relevant to the valuation.  Such adjustments are typically significant and result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value.

 

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Summary of Fair Values of Financial Instruments.

 

The estimated fair values of our financial instruments are as follows:

 

                                    
   March 31, 2023
   Carrying
Value		  Fair Value
      Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Total
   (In thousands)
Assets:               
Cash and cash equivalents  $23,230   $23,230   $—   $—   $23,230 
Securities held-to-maturity   226,996    9,294    181,779    —    191,073 
Securities available-for-sale   146,373    —    146,373    —    146,373 
Marketable equity securities   6,309    6,309    —    —    6,309 
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston and other restricted stock   7,173    —    —    7,173    7,173 
Loans - net   1,987,468    —    —    1,865,277    1,865,277 
Accrued interest receivable   8,009    —    —    8,140    8,140 
Mortgage servicing rights   515    —    779    —    779 
Derivative asset   5,344    —    5,344    —    5,344 
                          
Liabilities:                         
Deposits   2,157,128    —    —    2,150,323    2,150,323 
Short-term borrowings   98,990    —    99,145    —    99,145 
Long-term debt   31,178    —    31,123    —    31,123 
Subordinated debt   19,682    —    18,392    —    18,392 
Accrued interest payable   335    —    —    335    335 
Derivative liabilities   5,344    —    5,344    —    5,344 
                          

 

 

                                     
   December 31, 2022 
   Carrying Value   Fair Value 
       Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
   (In thousands) 
Assets:                    
Cash and cash equivalents  $30,342   $30,342   $—   $—   $30,342 
Securities held-to-maturity   230,168    9,162    181,788    —    190,950 
Securities available-for-sale   146,997    —    146,997    —    146,997 
Marketable equity securities   6,237    6,237    —    —    6,237 
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston and other restricted stock   3,352    —    —    3,352    3,352 
Loans - net   1,971,469    —    —    1,856,087    1,856,087 
Accrued interest receivable   8,140    —    —    8,140    8,140 
Mortgage servicing rights   550    —    794    —    794 
    Derivative asset   6,343    —    6,343    —    6,343 
                          
Liabilities:                         
Deposits   2,229,443    —    —    2,220,405    2,220,405 
Short-term borrowings   41,350    —    41,350    —    41,350 
Long-term debt   1,178    —    1,094    —    1,094 
Subordinated debt   19,673    —    18,132    —    18,132 
Accrued interest payable   186    —    —    186    186 
Derivative liabilities   6,343    —    6,343    —    6,343 
                          

 

 

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ITEM 2: MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

 

Overview.

 

We strive to remain a leader in meeting the financial service needs of the local community and to provide quality service to the individuals and businesses in the market areas that we have served since 1853. Historically, we have been a community-oriented provider of traditional banking products and services to business organizations and individuals, including products such as residential and commercial real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans, consumer loans and a variety of deposit products. We meet the needs of our local community through a community-based and service-oriented approach to banking.

 

We have adopted a growth-oriented strategy that continues to focus on increasing commercial lending and residential lending. Our strategy also calls for increasing deposit relationships, specifically core deposits (defined below), and broadening our product lines and services. We believe that this business strategy is best for our long-term success and viability, and complements our existing commitment to high-quality customer service.

 

In connection with our overall growth strategy, we seek to:

 

●Grow the Company’s commercial loan portfolio and related commercial deposits by targeting businesses in our primary market areas of Hampden and Hampshire Counties in western Massachusetts and Hartford and Tolland Counties in northern Connecticut to increase the net interest margin and loan income;

 

●Supplement the Company’s commercial portfolio by growing the Company’s residential real estate portfolio to diversify the Company’s loan portfolio and deepen customer relationships;

 

●Focus on expanding our retail banking deposit franchise and increase the number of households served within our designated market area;

 

●Invest in people, systems and technology to grow revenue, improve efficiency and enhance the overall customer experience;

 

●Grow revenues, increase book value and tangible book value per share (non-GAAP), continue to pay competitive dividends to shareholders and utilize the Company’s stock repurchase plan to leverage our capital and enhance franchise value (tangible book value per share is a non-GAAP measure. See “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements” for more information regarding our uses of non-GAAP financial measurements); and

 

●Consider growth through acquisitions. We may pursue expansion opportunities in existing or adjacent strategic locations with companies that add complementary products to our existing business and at terms that add value to our existing shareholders.

 

You should read the following financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023 in the context of this strategy.

 

●Net income was $5.3 million, or $0.24 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2023, consistent with net income of $5.3 million, or $0.24 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2022.

 

●During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company recorded a reversal of credit losses of $388,000, compared to a reversal of credit losses of $425,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2022. The Company recorded net charge-offs of $1.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to net charge-offs of $54,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022. The charge-offs for the three months ended March 31, 2023 were related to one commercial loan relationship acquired on October 21, 2016 from Chicopee Bancorp, Inc. that was recently placed on nonaccrual status. The charge-off represented the nonaccretable 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 Current Expected Credit Loss (“CECL”) implementation. There was no impact to earnings as a result of the charge-off.

 

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●Net interest income decreased $194,000, or 1.0%, to $18.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, from $18.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022. The decrease in net interest income was due to an increase in total interest expense of $3.9 million, or 312.4%, primarily due to an increase in interest expense on deposits of $3.1 million, or 313.6%, and an increase in interest expense on borrowings of $778,000, or 307.5%. During the same period, interest and dividend income increased $3.7 million, or 18.5%.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES.

 

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and practices within the banking industry. Application of these principles requires management to make estimates, assumptions, and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates, assumptions, and judgments are based on information available as of the date of the financial statements; accordingly, as this information changes, the financial statements could reflect different estimates, assumptions, and judgments. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Critical accounting estimates are necessary in the application of certain accounting policies and procedures, and are particularly susceptible to significant change. Critical accounting policies are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgments and uncertainties, and could potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions.

 

On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-13 Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which requires the recognition of the allowance for credit losses be estimated using the 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 held-to-maturity debt securities. It also applies to off-balance sheet credit exposures not accounted for as insurance (loan commitments, standby letters of credit, financial guarantees, and other similar instruments) and net investments in leases recognized by a lessor in accordance with Topic 842 on leases. In addition, ASC 326 made changes to the accounting for available-for-sale debt securities. One such change is to require credit losses to be presented as an allowance rather than as a write-down on available-for-sale debt securities that are determined to have impairment related to credit losses.

 

There have been no additional material changes to our critical accounting policies during the three months ended March 31, 2023. For additional information on our critical accounting policies, please refer to the information contained in Note 1 of the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements and Note 1 of the consolidated financial statements included in our 2022 Annual Report.

 

COMPARISON OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AT MARCH 31, 2023 AND DECEMBER 31, 2022

 

At March 31, 2023, total assets were $2.6 billion, an increase of $8.9 million, or 0.4%, from December 31, 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, cash and cash equivalents decreased $7.1 million, or 23.4%, to $23.2 million, investment securities decreased $3.7 million, or 1.0%, to $379.7 million and total loans increased $15.1 million, or 0.8%, to $2.0 billion.

 

At March 31, 2023, the available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities portfolio represented 14.6% of total assets, compared to 14.8% at December 31, 2022. At March 31, 2023, the Company’s available-for-sale securities portfolio, recorded at fair market value, decreased $624,000, or 0.4%, from $147.0 million at December 31, 2022 to $146.4 million. The held-to-maturity securities portfolio, recorded at amortized cost, decreased $3.2 million, or 1.4%, from $230.2 million at December 31, 2022 to $227.0 million at March 31, 2023. The marketable equity securities portfolio increased $72,000, or 1.2%, from $6.2 million at December 31, 2022 to $6.3 million at March 31, 2023.

 

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At March 31, 2023, the Company reported unrealized losses on the available-for-sale securities portfolio of $29.5 million, or 16.8% of the amortized cost basis of the available-for-sale securities portfolio, compared to unrealized losses of $32.2 million, or 18.0% of the amortized cost basis of the available-for-sale securities at December 31, 2022. At March 31, 2023, the Company reported unrealized losses on the held-to-maturity securities portfolio of $36.0 million, or 15.8%, of the amortized cost basis of all held-to-maturity securities, compared to $39.2 million, or 17.0% of the amortized cost basis of all held-to-maturity securities at December 31, 2022.

 

The securities in which the Company may invest are limited by regulation. Federally chartered savings banks have authority to invest in various types of assets, including U.S. Treasury obligations, securities of various government-sponsored enterprises, mortgage-backed securities, certain certificates of deposit of insured financial institutions, repurchase agreements, overnight and short-term loans to other banks, corporate debt instruments and marketable equity securities. The securities, with the exception of $7.5 million in corporate bonds, are issued by the United States government or government-sponsored enterprises and are therefore either explicitly or implicitly guaranteed as to the timely payment of contractual principal and interest. These positions are deemed to have no credit impairment, therefore, the disclosed unrealized losses with the securities portfolio relate primarily to changes in prevailing interest rates. In all cases, price improvement in future periods will be realized as the issuances approach maturity.

 

Management regularly reviews the portfolio for securities in an unrealized loss position. At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company did not record any impairment charges on its securities portfolio and attributed the unrealized losses primarily due to fluctuations in general interest rates or changes in expected prepayments and not due to credit quality.

 

The primary objective of the Company’s investment portfolio is to provide liquidity and to secure municipal deposit accounts while preserving the safety of principal. The Company expects to strategically redeploy available cash flows from the securities portfolio to fund loan growth and deposit outflows.

 

Total gross loans increased $15.1 million, or 0.8%, to $2.0 billion from December 31, 2022 to March 31, 2023. Commercial real estate loans increased $10.3 million, or 1.0%, residential real estate loans, including home equity loans, increased $5.8 million, or 0.8%, while commercial and industrial loans, including PPP loans, decreased $1.7 million, or 0.8%. All loans where the payments are 90 days or more in arrears as of the closing date of each month are placed on nonaccrual status. If all nonaccrual loans had been performing in accordance with their terms, we would have earned additional interest income of $5,000 and $60,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

 

At March 31, 2023, nonperforming loans totaled $5.8 million, or 0.29% of total loans, compared to $5.7 million, or 0.29% of total loans, at December 31, 2022. At March 31, 2023, there were no loans 90 or more days past due and still accruing interest. Nonperforming assets to total assets, was 0.23% at March 31, 2023, compared to 0.22% at December 31, 2022. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans was 0.95% at March 31, 2023, compared to 1.00% at December 31, 2022. At March 31, 2023, the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans was 328.5%, compared to 350.0% at December 31, 2022. A summary of our past due and nonaccrual loans by class are listed in Note 5 of the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

Total deposits decreased $72.3 million, or 3.2%, from December 31, 2022 to $2.2 billion at March 31, 2023. Core deposits, which the Company defines as all deposits except time deposits, decreased $118.4 million, or 6.5%, from $1.8 billion, or 81.5% of total deposits, at December 31, 2022, to $1.7 billion, or 78.8% of total deposits, at March 31, 2023. Non-interest-bearing deposits decreased $19.9 million, or 3.1%, to $625.7 million, interest-bearing checking accounts decreased $15.0 million, or 10.1%, to $133.7 million, savings accounts decreased $3.6 million, or 1.6%, to $218.8 million, and money market accounts decreased $79.9 million, or 10.0%, to $721.2 million. Time deposits increased $46.0 million, or 11.2%, from $411.7 million at December 31, 2022 to $457.7 million at March 31, 2023.

 

Total deposits decreased $15.3 million, or 0.7%, from December 31, 2022 to $2.2 billion at February 28, 2023. Total deposits decreased $57.0 million, or 2.6%, from February 28, 2023 to $2.2 billion at March 31, 2023. Of the $57.0 million, 58% of the deposit decrease was due to the reduction of a single deposit relationship that was seeking a higher rate and moved the funds to a treasury investment outside the bank. During the first quarter of 2023, the Company experienced a higher level of competition not only from local competitors but also from money market funds and Treasury notes that were offering higher returns. In addition, the Company also saw an unfavorable shift in deposit mix from low-cost core deposits to high-cost time deposits as customers migrated to higher yields.

 

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The table below is a summary of our deposit balances for the periods noted:

 

   March 31, 2022   June 30, 2022   September 30, 2022   December 31, 2022   January 31, 2023   February 28, 2023   March 31, 2023 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
Core deposits  $1,899,141   $1,951,564   $1,944,476   $1,817,753   $1,784,606   $1,786,179   $1,699,402 
Time deposits   379,023    350,408    343,278    411,690    421,246    427,922    457,726 
Total Deposits  $2,278,164   $2,301,972   $2,287,754   $2,229,443   $2,205,852   $2,214,101   $2,157,128 
Change from prior period:                                   
Dollars ($)       $23,808   $(14,218)  $(58,311)  $(23,591)  $8,249   $(56,973)
Percent (%)        1.0%   (0.6)%   (2.5)%   (1.1)%   0.4%   (2.6)%

 

The Company continues to focus on the maintenance, development, and expansion of its core deposit base to meet funding requirements and liquidity needs, with an emphasis to retain a long-term customer relationship base and to efficiently compete for and retain deposits in our local market. At March 31, 2023, the banks uninsured deposits represented 28.6% of total deposits, compared to 30.8% at December 31, 2022 and the average account size was approximately $22,000. The Company’s deposit base was approximately 65% retail, 25% business, 5% municipal and 4% non-profit.

 

At March 31, 2023, short-term borrowings increased $57.6 million, or 139.4%, to $99.0 million, compared to $41.4 million at December 31, 2022. Long-term borrowings with the FHLB increased $30.0 million from $1.2 million at December 31, 2022, to $31.2 million at March 31, 2023. Subordinated debt of $19.7 million remained unchanged at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

 

At March 31, 2023, shareholders’ equity was $233.2 million, or 9.1% 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 $5.3 million and a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss of $1.9 million reflecting the after-tax increase in the fair value of the available-for-sale securities portfolio primarily due to changes in market interest rates. These increases were partially offset by cash dividends paid of $1.5 million. At March 31, 2023, the unrealized losses are not realized in our consolidated statements of net income since the Company has both the intent and ability to hold these available-for-sale securities until maturity or the price recovers. At March 31, 2023, total shares outstanding were 22,209,347.

 

The Company’s regulatory capital ratios continue to be strong and in excess of regulatory minimum requirements to be considered well-capitalized as defined by the regulators as well as internal targets. The Bank’s tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio (“TCE”), a non-GAAP financial measure, was 8.78% at March 31, 2023, compared to 8.52% at December 31, 2022.  Fluctuations in the TCE ratio were driven by the changes in the unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities. TCE is a non-GAAP measure. See “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements” for more information regarding our uses of non-GAAP financial measurements.

 

COMPARISON OF OPERATING RESULTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2023 AND MARCH 31, 2022

 

General.

 

Net income was $5.3 million, or $0.24 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2023, consistent with net income of $5.3 million, or $0.24 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2022. Net interest income, our primary driver of revenues, was $18.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 compared to $18.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022.

 

38

 

 

Net Interest and Dividend Income.

 

The following tables set forth the information relating to our average balance and net interest income for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, and reflect the average yield on interest-earning assets and average cost of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods indicated. Yields and costs are derived by dividing annualized interest income by the average balance of interest-earning assets and annualized interest expense by the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities for the periods shown. The interest rate spread is the difference between the total average yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest margin represents tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets. Average balances are derived from actual daily balances over the periods indicated. Interest income includes fees earned when the real estate loans are prepaid or refinanced. For analytical purposes, the interest earned on tax-exempt assets is adjusted to a tax-equivalent basis to recognize the income tax savings which facilitates comparison between taxable and tax-exempt assets.

 

   Three Months Ended March 31, 
   2023   2022 
   Average       Average Yield/   Average       Average Yield/ 
   Balance   Interest   Cost   Balance   Interest   Cost 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
ASSETS:                        
Interest-earning assets                              
Loans(1)(2)  $1,993,124   $21,449    4.36%  $1,894,870   $18,067    3.87%
Securities(2)   382,373    2,149    2.28    423,437    1,950    1.87 
Other investments - at cost   12,098    106    3.55    10,595    25    0.96 
Short-term investments(3)   5,909    54    3.71    57,030    21    0.15 
Total interest-earning assets   2,393,504    23,758    4.03    2,385,932    20,063    3.41 
Total non-interest-earning assets   152,539              143,635           
Total assets  $2,546,043             $2,529,567           
                               
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY:                              
Interest-bearing liabilities                              
Interest-bearing checking accounts  $139,755   $263    0.76%  $132,192   $95    0.29%
Savings accounts   218,797    45    0.08    218,448    36    0.07 
Money market accounts   777,673    1,995    1.04    878,393    521    0.24 
Time deposits   427,895    1,800    1.71    389,063    340    0.35 
Total interest-bearing deposits   1,564,120    4,103    1.06    1,618,096    992    0.25 
Short-term borrowings and long-term debt   86,360    1,031    4.84    21,975    253    4.67 
Interest-bearing liabilities   1,650,480    5,134    1.26    1,640,071    1,245    0.31 
Non-interest-bearing deposits   639,162              633,082           
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities   25,331              32,857           
Total non-interest-bearing liabilities   664,493              665,939           
                               
Total liabilities   2,314,973              2,306,010           
Total equity   231,070              223,557           
Total liabilities and equity  $2,546,043             $2,529,567           
Less: Tax-equivalent adjustment(2)        (120)             (120)     
Net interest and dividend income       $18,504             $18,698      
Net interest rate spread(4)             2.74%             3.08%
Net interest rate spread, on a tax equivalent basis(5)             2.76%             3.10%
Net interest margin(6)             3.14%             3.18%
Net interest margin, on a tax equivalent basis(7)             3.16%             3.20%
Ratio of average interest-earning                              
assets to average interest-bearing liabilities             145.02%             145.48%

 

 

 

(1)Loans, including nonaccrual loans, are net of deferred loan origination costs and unadvanced funds.

(2)Loan and securities income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 21%. The tax-equivalent adjustment is deducted from tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income to agree to the amount reported on the consolidated statements of net income.

(3)Short-term investments include federal funds sold.

(4)Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.

(5)Net interest rate spread, on a tax-equivalent basis, represents the difference between the tax-equivalent weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the tax-equivalent weighted average cost of interest-bearing liabilities. See “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements”.

(6)Net interest margin represents net interest and dividend income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets.

(7)Net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, represents tax-equivalent net interest and dividend income as a percentage of average interest-earning assets. See “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements”.

 

39

 

Rate/Volume Analysis.

 

The following table shows how changes in interest rates and changes in the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected our interest and dividend income and interest expense during the periods indicated. Information is provided in each category with respect to: (1) interest income changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate); (2) interest income changes attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume); and (3) the net change.

 

The changes attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate.

 

   Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2022 
   Increase (Decrease) Due to     
   Volume   Rate   Net 
Interest-earning assets  (In thousands) 
Loans (1)  $937   $2,445   $3,382 
Securities (1)   (189)   388    199 
Other investments - at cost   4    77    81 
Short-term investments   (19)   52    33 
Total interest-earning assets   733    2,962    3,695 
                
Interest-bearing liabilities               
Interest-bearing checking accounts   5    163    168 
Savings accounts   —    9    9 
Money market accounts   (60)   1,534    1,474 
Time deposits   34    1,426    1,460 
Short-term borrowing and long-time debt   741    37    778 
Total interest-bearing liabilities   720    3,169    3,889 
Change in net interest and dividend income (1)  $13   $(207)  $(194)

 

 

 

(1)Securities, loan income and change in net interest and dividend income are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a tax rate of 21%. 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”.

 

Tax-equivalent net interest income decreased $194,000, or 1.0%, to $18.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, from $18.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022. The decrease in tax-equivalent net interest income was due to an increase in total interest expense of $3.9 million, or 312.4%, primarily due to an increase in interest expense on deposits of $3.1 million, or 313.6%, and an increase in interest expense on borrowings of $778,000, or 307.5%. During the same period, interest and dividend income increased $3.7 million, or 18.5%. Excluding PPP income of $15,000 and $562,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2023 and March 31, 2022, respectively, net interest income increased $353,000, or 1.9%. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, interest income included $62,000 in negative purchase accounting adjustments, compared to $39,000 in positive purchase accounting adjustments during the three months ended March 31, 2022. Excluding the adjustments above, net interest income increased $454,000, or 2.5%, from $18.1 million during the three months ended March 31, 2022, to $18.6 million during the three months ended March 31, 2023.

 

The net interest margin was 3.14% for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to 3.18%, for the three months ended March 31, 2022. The net interest margin, on a tax-equivalent basis, was 3.16% for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to 3.20% for the three months ended March 31, 2022. Excluding the adjustments discussed above and prepayment penalties and fees, the net interest margin increased five basis points from 3.10% for the three months ended March 31, 2022 to 3.15% for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The Company’s net interest margin, during the three months ended March 31, 2023, was negatively impacted by higher deposit costs as well as a shift in the deposit mix from low-cost deposits to high-cost deposits.

 

40

 

 

The average yield on interest-earning assets increased 62 basis points from 3.39% for the three months ended March 31, 2022 to 4.01% for the three months ended March 31, 2023. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the average cost of funds, including non-interest-bearing demand accounts and borrowings, increased 69 basis points, from 0.22% for the three months ended March 31, 2022 to 0.91% for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The average cost of core deposits, which include non-interest-bearing demand accounts, increased 37 basis points, from 0.16% for the three months ended March 31, 2022 to 0.53% for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The average cost of time deposits increased 136 basis points from 0.35% for the three months ended March 31, 2022 to 1.71% for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The average cost of borrowings, including subordinated debt, increased 17 basis points from 4.67% for the three months ended March 31, 2022 to 4.84% for the three months ended March 31, 2023. For the three months ended March 31, 2023, average demand deposits, an interest-free source of funds, increased $6.1 million, or 1.0%, to $639.2 million, or 29.0% of total average deposits, from $633.1 million, or 28.1% of total average deposits for the three months ended March 31, 2022.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, average interest-earning assets increased $7.6 million, or 0.3%, to $2.4 billion compared to the three months ended March 31, 2022, primarily due to an increase in average loans of $98.3 million, or 5.2%, and an increase in average other investments of $1.5 million, or 14.2%, offset by a decrease in average short-term investments, consisting of cash and cash equivalents, of $51.1 million, or 89.6%, and a decrease in average securities of $41.1 million, or 9.7%.

 

Provision for (Reversal of) Credit Losses.

 

The provision for credit losses is reviewed by management based upon our evaluation of economic and business conditions affecting our key lending areas and other conditions, such as new loan products, credit quality trends (including trends in nonperforming loans expected to result from existing conditions), collateral values, loan volumes and concentrations, specific industry conditions using reasonable and supportable forecasts and the impact that such conditions were believed to have had on the collectability of the loan portfolio.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company recorded a reversal of credit losses of $388,000, compared to a reversal of credit losses of $425,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2022. The Company recorded net charge-offs of $1.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to net charge-offs of $54,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022. As of March 31, 2023, the Company’s delinquencies and nonperforming assets had not been materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  

 

Although we believe that we have established and maintained the allowance for credit losses at adequate levels, future adjustments may be necessary if economic, real estate and other conditions differ substantially from the current operating environment. If the COVID-19 pandemic has an adverse effect on the ability of our borrowers to satisfy their obligations to us, the demand for our loans or our other products and services, other aspects of our business operations, or on financial markets, real estate markets, or economic growth, this could, depending on the extent of the loan defaults, materially and adversely affect our liquidity and financial condition and our results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Non-Interest Income.

 

Non-interest income increased $631,000, or 26.9%, to $3.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, from $2.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, service charges and fees increased $13,000, or 0.6%, and income from bank-owned life insurance decreased $8,000, or 1.8%, from $448,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2022 to $440,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2023. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company reported a gain on non-marketable equity investments of $352,000 and during the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company reported an unrealized loss on marketable equity securities of $276,000. Gains and losses from the investment portfolio vary from quarter to quarter based on market conditions, as well as the related yield curve and valuation changes.

 

41

 

 

Non-Interest Expense.

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2023, non-interest expense increased $440,000, or 3.0%, to $14.9 million, from $14.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022. Salaries and employee benefits expense increased $192,000, or 2.3%, professional fees increased $180,000, or 31.2%, FDIC insurance expense increased $66,000, or 23.1%, data processing expense increased $30,000, or 4.1%, advertising expense increased $18,000, or 4.5%, and other non-interest expense increased $26,000, or 1.1%. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in furniture and equipment expense of $57,000, or 10.5%, and a decrease in occupancy expense of $15,000, or 1.1%.

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2023, the efficiency ratio was 69.3%, compared to 68.7% for March 31, 2022. For the three months ended March 31, 2023, the adjusted efficiency ratio, a non-GAAP financial measure, was 70.5% compared to 67.8% for the three months ended March 31, 2022. The adjusted efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP measure. See “Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements” for the related efficiency ratio calculation and a reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP financial measures.

 

Income Taxes.

 

Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2023 was $1.7 million, or an effective tax rate of 24.0%, compared to $1.7 million, or an effective tax rate of 24.2%, for the three months ended March 31, 2022.

 

42

 

 

Explanation of Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measurements.

 

We believe that it is common practice in the banking industry to present interest income and related yield information on tax-exempt loans and securities on a tax-equivalent basis, as well as presenting tangible book value per share and adjusted efficiency ratio, and that such information is useful to investors because it facilitates comparisons among financial institutions. However, the adjustment of interest income and yields on tax-exempt loans and securities to a tax-equivalent amount, as well as the presentation of tangible book value per share and adjusted efficiency ratio, may be considered to include financial information that is not in compliance with GAAP. A reconciliation from GAAP to non-GAAP is provided below.

 

   Three Months Ended 
   March 31, 2023   December 31, 2022   March 31, 2022 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
       Average Yield       Average Yield       Average Yield 
Loans (no tax adjustment)  $21,329    4.34%  $21,274    4.23%  $17,947    3.84%
Tax-equivalent adjustment (1)   120         129         120      
Loans (tax-equivalent basis)  $21,449    4.36%  $21,403    4.26%  $18,067    3.87%
                               
Securities (no tax adjustment)  $2,149    2.28%  $2,174    2.22%  $1,950    1.87%
Tax-equivalent adjustment (1)   —         1         —      
Securities (tax-equivalent basis)  $2,149    2.28%  $2,175    2.22%  $1,950    1.87%
                               
Net interest income (no tax adjustment)  $18,504        $20,854        $18,698      
Tax-equivalent adjustment (1)   120         130         120      
Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)  $18,624        $20,984        $18,818      
                               
Interest rate spread (no tax adjustment)   2.74%        3.24%        3.08%     
Net interest margin (no tax adjustment)   3.14%        3.44%        3.18%     
Net interest margin (tax-equivalent)   3.16%        3.47%        3.20%     
                               
                               
Net interest income (no tax adjustment)  $18,504        $20,854        $18,698      
Less:                              
Purchase accounting adjustments   (62)        87         39      
Prepayment penalties and fees   —         134         21      
PPP income   15         18         562      
Adjusted net interest income (non-GAAP)  $18,551        $20,615        $18,076      
                               
Average interest-earning assets  $2,393,504        $2,401,676        $2,385,932      
Average interest-earnings asset, excluding average PPP loans  $2,391,305        $2,399,297        $2,370,852      
                               
Adjusted net interest margin, excluding purchase accounting adjustments, PPP fee income, prepayment penalties and average PPP loans (non-GAAP)   3.15%        3.41%        3.10%     
                               
Book Value per Share (GAAP)  $10.50        $10.27        $9.63      
Non-GAAP adjustments:                              
Goodwill   (0.56)        (0.56)        (0.55)     
Core deposit intangible   (0.10)        (0.10)        (0.11)     
Tangible Book Value per Share (non-GAAP)  $9.84        $9.61        $8.97      
                               
Income Before Income Taxes (GAAP)  $6,975        $12,354        $7,015      
(Reversal of) provision for credit losses   (388)        150         (425)     
PPP income   (15)        (18)        (562)     
Gain on defined benefit plan curtailment   —         (2,807)        —      
Income Before Taxes, Provision, PPP Income and Defined Benefit Curtailment (non-GAAP)  $6,572        $9,679        $6,028      

 

43

 

 

   Three Months Ended 
  

March 31,

2023

  

December 31,

2022

  

March 31,

2022

 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
Total Bank Equity (GAAP)  $238,887   $233,882   $221,866 
Non-GAAP adjustments:               
Goodwill   (12,487)   (12,487)   (12,487)
Core deposit intangible net of associated deferred tax liabilities   (1,505)   (1,573)   (1,775)
Tangible Capital (non-GAAP)  $224,895   $219,822   $207,604 
                
Tangible Capital (non-GAAP)  $224,895   $219,822   $207,604 
Unrealized losses on HTM securities net of tax   (25,825)   (28,194)   (12,434)
Adjusted Tangible Capital for Impact of Unrealized Losses on HTM Securities Net of Tax (non-GAAP)  $199,070   $191,628   $195,170 
                
Common Equity Tier (CET) 1 Capital  $247,996   $244,864   $228,335 
Unrealized losses on HTM securities net of tax   (25,825)   (28,194)   (12,434)
Unrealized losses on defined benefit plan net of tax   (1,079)   (1,079)   (8,675)
Adjusted CET 1 Capital for Impact of Net AFS Securities Losses (non-GAAP)  $221,092   $215,591   $207,226 
                
Total Assets for Leverage Ratio (non-GAAP)  $2,560,973   $2,579,141   $2,518,001 
                
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio   9.68%   9.49%   9.07%
                
Tangible Common Equity (non-GAAP) = Tangible Capital (non-GAAP)/Total Assets for Leverage Ratio (non-GAAP)   8.78%   8.52%   8.24%
                
Adjusted Tangible Common Equity for AFS Impact (non-GAAP) = Adjusted CET 1 Capital for Impact of Net AFS Securities Losses (non-GAAP)/Total Assets for Leverage Ratio (non-GAAP)   8.63%   8.36%   8.23%
                
Adjusted Tangible Common Equity for HTM Impact (non-GAAP) = Adjusted Tangible Capital for Impact of Unrealized Losses on HTM Securities Net of Tax (non-GAAP)/Total Assets for Leverage Ratio (non-GAAP)   7.77%   7.43%   7.75%
                
Efficiency Ratio:               
Non-interest Expense (GAAP)  $14,896   $14,003   $14,456 
                
Net Interest Income (GAAP)  $18,504   $20,854   $18,698 
                
Non-interest Income (GAAP)  $2,979   $5,653   $2,348 
Non-GAAP adjustments:               
Loss on securities, net   —    —    4 
Unrealized (gain) loss on marketable equity securities   —    (19)   276 
Gain on non-marketable equity investments   (352)   (70)   — 
Gain on defined benefit plan curtailment   —    (2,807)   — 
Non-interest Income for Adjusted Efficiency Ratio (non-GAAP)  $2,627   $2,757   $2,628 
Total Revenue for Adjusted Efficiency Ratio (non-GAAP)  $21,131   $23,611   $21,326 

 

44

 

 

   Three Months Ended 
  

March 31,

2023

  

December 31,

2022

  

March 31,

2022

 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
Efficiency Ratio (GAAP)   69.34%   52.83%   68.69%
Adjusted Efficiency Ratio (Non-interest Expense (GAAP)/Total Revenue for Adjusted Efficiency Ratio (non-GAAP))   70.49%   59.31%   67.79%

  

(1)The tax equivalent adjustment is based upon a 21% tax rate.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources.

 

The term “liquidity” refers to our ability to generate adequate amounts of cash to fund loan originations, loan purchases, deposit withdrawals and operating expenses. Our primary sources of liquidity are deposits, scheduled amortization and prepayments of loan principal and mortgage-backed securities, maturities and calls of investment securities and funds provided by our operations. We can also borrow funds from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston (the “FRB”) based on eligible collateral of loans and securities. Our material cash commitments include funding loan originations, fulfilling contractual obligations with third-party service providers, maintaining operating leases for certain of our Bank properties and satisfying repayment of our long-term debt obligations.

 

Primary Sources of Liquidity

 

At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, our outstanding borrowings from the FHLB were $124.7 million and $36.2 million, respectively. At March 31, 2023, we had $281.6 million in available borrowing capacity with the FHLB. Additionally, the Company can increase its borrowing capacity with the FHLB by pledging additional investment securities or additional loans. The Company also has a borrowing relationship with the FRB through its primary credit program offered through its discount window with a borrowing capacity up to $53.4 million. Additionally, the Company also has $71.5 million in available borrowing capacity with the FRB under the Bank Term Funding Program (the “BTFP”). At March 31, 2023, the Company did not have any outstanding balances under the FRB’s discount window credit program or the BTFP. The Company has agreements with approved broker-dealers to participate in the brokered deposit market to support liquidity. At March 31, 2023, the Company did not have any brokered deposits outstanding.

 

The Company also has available lines of credit of $15.0 million and $50.0 million with other correspondent banks. Interest rates on these lines are determined and reset on a daily basis by each respective bank. At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, we did not have an outstanding balance under either of these lines of credit. In addition, we may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with approved broker-dealers. Reverse repurchase agreements are agreements that allow us to borrow money using our securities as collateral.

 

We also have outstanding at any time, a significant number of commitments to extend credit and provide financial guarantees to third parties. These arrangements are subject to strict credit control assessments. Guarantees specify limits to our obligations. Because many commitments and almost all guarantees expire without being funded in whole or in part, the contract amounts are not estimates of future cash flows. We are also obligated under agreements with the FHLB to repay borrowed funds, under leases for certain of our branches and equipment and for our core processing agreement.

 

Maturing investment securities are a relatively predictable source of funds. However, deposit flows, calls of securities and prepayments of loans and mortgage-backed securities are strongly influenced by interest rates, general and local economic conditions and competition in the marketplace. These factors reduce the predictability of the timing of these sources of funds.

 

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. At March 31, 2023, the Company had approximately $143.6 million in loan commitments and letters of credit to borrowers and approximately $337.3 million in available home equity and other unadvanced lines of credit.

 

45

 

 

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 March 31, 2023, time deposit accounts scheduled to mature within one year totaled $398.4 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.

 

At March 31, 2023, the Company and the Bank exceeded each of the applicable regulatory capital requirements (See Note 13, Regulatory Capital, to our consolidated financial statements in our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information on our regulatory requirements).

 

Material Cash Commitments

 

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 March 31, 2023 were estimated to be $9.5 million, with $5.0 million expected to be paid within one year and the remaining $4.5 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 sixteen years, some of which include options to extend the leases for additional five-year terms up to ten years. Undiscounted lease liabilities totaled $10.6 million as of March 31, 2023. Principal payments expected to be made on our lease liabilities during the twelve months ended March 31, 2024 were $1.4 million. The remaining lease liability payments totaled $9.2 million and are expected to be made after March 31, 2024.

 

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 March 31, 2023, $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.

 

We do not anticipate any material capital expenditures during the calendar year 2023, except in pursuance of the Company’s strategic initiatives. The Company does not have any balloon or other payments due on any long-term obligations or any off-balance sheet items other than the commitments and unused lines of credit noted above.

 

At March 31, 2023, we exceeded each of the applicable regulatory capital requirements. As of March 31, 2023, the most recent notification from the Office of Comptroller of the Currency categorized the Bank as “well-capitalized” under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as “well-capitalized,” the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based, Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based, and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the following table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes would change our category.

 

46

 

 

Our actual capital ratios of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 are also presented in the following table.

 

   Actual   Minimum For Capital
Adequacy Purpose		   Minimum To Be Well
Capitalized Under Prompt
Corrective Action Provisions		 
   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
March 31, 2023                        
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated  $281,520    14.17%  $158,929    8.00%    N/A      N/A  
Bank   267,503    13.49    158,682    8.00   $198,352    10.00%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated   242,331    12.20    119,197    6.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   247,996    12.50    119,011    6.00    158,682    8.00 
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated   242,331    12.20    89,398    4.50     N/A      N/A  
Bank   247,996    12.50    89,258    4.50    128,929    6.50 
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio (to Adjusted Average Assets):                              
Consolidated   242,331    9.46    102,510    4.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   247,996    9.68    102,439    4.00    128,049    5.00 

 

   Actual   Minimum For Capital
Adequacy Purpose		   Minimum To Be Well
Capitalized Under Prompt
Corrective Action Provisions		 
   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio   Amount   Ratio 
   (Dollars in thousands) 
December 31, 2022                        
Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated  $278,729    14.20%  $157,042    8.00%    N/A      N/A  
Bank   264,795    13.50    156,904    8.00   $196,131    10.00%
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated   239,125    12.18    117,781    6.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   244,864    12.48    117,678    6.00    156,904    8.00 
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets):                              
Consolidated   239,125    12.18    88,336    4.50     N/A      N/A  
Bank   244,864    12.48    88,259    4.50    127,485    6.50 
Tier 1 Leverage Ratio (to Adjusted Average Assets):                              
Consolidated   239,125    9.27    103,229    4.00     N/A      N/A  
Bank   244,864    9.49    103,166    4.00    128,957    5.00 

 

We also have outstanding, at any time, a significant number of commitments to extend credit and provide financial guarantees to third parties. These arrangements are subject to strict credit control assessments. Guarantees specify limits to our obligations. Because many commitments and almost all guarantees expire without being funded in whole or in part, the contract amounts are not estimates of future cash flows.

 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS.

 

The Company does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements, other than noted above under Material Cash Commitments, that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that are material to investors.

 

ITEM 3: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Except as set forth below, there have been no material changes in our assessment of our sensitivity to market risk since our presentation in our 2022 Annual Report. Please refer to Item 7A of the 2022 Annual Report for additional information.

 

47

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Interest rate risk represents the sensitivity of earnings to changes in market interest rates. As interest rates change, the interest income and expense streams associated with our financial instruments also change, thereby impacting net interest income, the primary component of our earnings. ALCO utilizes the results of a detailed and dynamic simulation model to quantify the estimated exposure of net interest income to sustained interest rate changes. While ALCO routinely monitors simulated net interest income sensitivity, they also utilize additional tools to monitor potential longer-term interest rate risk.

 

The simulation model captures the impact of changing interest rates on the interest income received and interest expense paid on all interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities reflected on our consolidated balance sheet, as well as for derivative financial instruments. This sensitivity analysis is compared to ALCO policy limits, which specify a maximum tolerance level for net interest income exposure assuming no balance sheet growth.

 

The repricing and/or new rates of assets and liabilities moved in tandem with market rates. However, in certain deposit products, the use of data from a historical analysis indicated that the rates on these products would move only a fraction of the rate change amount. Pertinent data from each loan account, deposit account and investment security was used to calculate future cash flows. The data included such items as maturity date, payment amount, next repricing date, repricing frequency, repricing index, repricing spread, caps and floors. Prepayment speed assumptions were based upon the difference between the account rate and the current market rate. We also evaluate changes in interest rate sensitivity under various scenarios including but not limited to nonparallel shifts in the yield curve, variances in prepayment speeds and variances to correlations of instrument rates to market indexes.

 

The table below shows our net interest income sensitivity analysis reflecting the following changes to net interest income for the first year of the simulation model. The analysis assumes no balance sheet growth, a parallel shift in interest rates, and all rate changes were “ramped” over the first 12-month period.

 

   Estimated Change in Net
Interest Income		 
Changes in Interest Rates 

At

March 31, 2023

 
1 – 12 Months     
+200 basis points   -4.7%
-200 basis points   3.0%
      

 

The preceding sensitivity analysis does not represent a forecast of net interest income, nor do the calculations represent any actions that management may undertake in response to changes in interest rates. They should not be relied upon as being indicative of expected operating results. These hypothetical estimates are based upon numerous assumptions including, among others, the nature and timing of interest rate levels, yield curve shape, prepayments on loans and securities, deposit decay rates, pricing decisions on loans and deposits and reinvestment/replacement of asset and liability cash flows. While assumptions are developed based upon current economic and local market conditions, we cannot make any assurances as to the predictive nature of these assumptions, including how customer preferences or competitor influences might change.

 

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.

 

48

 

 

ITEM 4: CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Disclosure Controls and Procedures.

 

Management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)), as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon the evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective, to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports we file and submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported as and when required and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely discussion regarding required disclosure.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.

 

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation that occurred during our last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

 

We are subject to claims and legal actions in the ordinary course of business. We believe that all such claims and actions currently pending against us, if any, are either adequately covered by insurance or would not have a material adverse effect on us if decided in a manner unfavorable to us.

 

ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS.

 

For a summary of risk factors relevant to our operations, see Part 1, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in our 2022 Annual Report. Except as set forth below, there were no material changes in the risk factors relevant to our operations discussed in our 2022 Annual Report.

 

Recent negative developments affecting the banking industry, and resulting media coverage, have eroded customer confidence in the banking system. The recent high-profile bank failures involving Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank have generated significant market volatility among publicly traded bank holding companies and, in particular, regional banks like the Company. These market developments have negatively impacted customer confidence in the safety and soundness of regional banks. As a result, customers may choose to maintain deposits with larger financial institutions or invest in higher yielding short-term fixed income securities, all of which could materially adversely impact the Company’s liquidity, loan funding capacity, net interest margin, capital and results of operations. While the Department of the Treasury, the Federal Reserve, and the FDIC have made statements ensuring that depositors of these recently failed banks would have access to their deposits, including uninsured deposit accounts, there is no guarantee that such actions will be successful in restoring customer confidence in regional banks and the banking system more broadly.

 

Rising interest rates have decreased the value of the Company’s held-to-maturity securities portfolio, and the Company would realize losses if it were required to sell such securities to meet liquidity needs. As a result of inflationary pressures and the resulting rapid increases in interest rates over the last year, the trading value of previously issued government and other fixed income securities has declined significantly. These securities make up a majority of the securities portfolio of most banks in the U.S., including the Company’s, resulting in unrealized losses embedded in the held-to-maturity portion of U.S. banks’ securities portfolios. While the Company does not currently intend to sell these securities, if the Company were required to sell such securities to meet liquidity needs, it may incur losses, which could impair the Company’s capital, financial condition, and results of operations and require the Company to raise additional capital on unfavorable terms, thereby negatively impacting its profitability. While the Company has taken actions to maximize its funding sources, there is no guarantee that such actions will be successful or sufficient in the event of sudden liquidity needs. Furthermore, while the Federal Reserve Board has announced a Bank Term Funding Program available to eligible depository institutions secured by U.S. treasuries, agency debt and mortgage-backed securities, and other qualifying assets as collateral at par, to mitigate the risk of potential losses on the sale of such instruments, there is no guarantee that such programs will be effective in addressing liquidity needs as they arise.

 

49

 

 

Any regulatory examination scrutiny or new regulatory requirements arising from the recent events in the banking industry could increase the Company’s expenses and affect the Company’s operations. The Company also anticipates increased regulatory scrutiny – in the course of routine examinations and otherwise – and new regulations directed towards banks of similar size to the Bank, designed to address the recent negative developments in the banking industry, all of which may increase the Company’s costs of doing business and reduce its profitability. Among other things, there may be an increased focus by both regulators and investors on deposit composition and the level of uninsured deposits. As primarily a commercial bank, the Bank has a high degree of uninsured deposits compared to larger national banks or smaller community banks with a stronger focus on retail deposits. As a result, the Bank could face increased scrutiny or be viewed as higher risk by regulators and the investor community.

 

ITEM 2.UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.

 

The following table sets forth information with respect to purchases made by us of our common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2023.

 

Period   Total Number
of Shares
Purchased		   Average
Price Paid
per Share ($)		   Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced
Programs		   Maximum
Number of
Shares that May
Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Program (1)(2)		 
January 1 - 31, 2023    —    —    —    1,056,344 
February 1 - 28, 2023    6,136    9.90    6,136    1,050,208 
March 1 - 31, 2023    137,760    9.37    118,864    931,344 
Total    143,896    9.39    125,000    931,344 

 

(1)On July 26, 2022, the Board of Directors authorized an additional stock repurchase plan (the “2022 Plan”) under which the Company may purchase up to 1,100,000 shares of common stock, or 5%, of its outstanding common stock, as of the date the 2022 Plan was adopted.

 

(2)Repurchase of 18,896 shares related to tax obligations for shares of restricted stock that vested on March 6, 2023 under our 2020 LTI Recognition & Retention Plan. These repurchases were reported by each reporting person on March 8, 2023.

 

There were no sales by us of unregistered securities during the three months ended March 31, 2023.

 

ITEM 3.DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES.

 

None.

 

ITEM 4.MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE.

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 5.OTHER INFORMATION.

 

None.

 

50

 

ITEM 6.EXHIBITS.

 

Exhibit

Number

  

Exhibit Description

     
3.2   Restated Articles of Organization of Western New England Bancorp, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 26, 2016).
     
3.3   Amended and Restated Bylaws of Western New England Bancorp, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 2, 2017).
     
4.1   Form of Stock Certificate of Western New England Bancorp, Inc. (f/k/a Westfield Financial, Inc.) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Registration Statement No. 333-137024 on Form S-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 31, 2006).
     
31.1*   Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
31.2*   Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
32.1*   Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
32.2*   Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
101**   Financial statements from the quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Western New England Bancorp, Inc. for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, formatted in Inline XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Net Income, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
     
104   Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101).

 

 
*Filed herewith.

 

**Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the Interactive Data Files on Exhibit 101 hereto are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections.

 

51

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized on May 5, 2023.

     
  Western New England Bancorp, Inc.
     
  By: /s/ James C. Hagan
    James C. Hagan
    President and Chief Executive Officer
     
  By: /s/ Guida R. Sajdak
    Guida R. Sajdak
    Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

  

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