-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, HApsTHzgU4vx1e/LvxJYfX4QC5Ll5zWHT6s1u2R6Ki1fWoxnaspir9h9o6m80GQV MI/3hS+f0A1z39/4A/oLMA== 0001144204-08-018839.txt : 20080331 0001144204-08-018839.hdr.sgml : 20080331 20080331134533 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0001144204-08-018839 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 10-K PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 8 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20071231 FILED AS OF DATE: 20080331 DATE AS OF CHANGE: 20080331 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORP CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0001284077 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: SAVINGS INSTITUTION, FEDERALLY CHARTERED [6035] IRS NUMBER: 593764686 STATE OF INCORPORATION: X1 FISCAL YEAR END: 1231 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 10-K SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 000-50962 FILM NUMBER: 08723221 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 505 HAINES AVENUE CITY: WAYCROSS STATE: GA ZIP: 31501 BUSINESS PHONE: 9122834711 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 505 HAINES AVENUE CITY: WAYCROSS STATE: GA ZIP: 31501 10-K 1 v107909_10k.htm Unassociated Document
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007

Commission file number: 000-50962

ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Federal
 
59-3764686
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
 
 
505 Haines Avenue
Waycross, Georgia
 
31501
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (800) 342-2824

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

Title of class
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par value
 
The NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. YES o  NO x.
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. YES o  NO x.

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 twelve 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 x  NO o.

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10 K or any amendment to this Form 10 K. o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, “non-accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large Accelerated Filer  o
Accelerated Filer  o
Non-Accelerated Filer  o
Smaller Reporting Company x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
YES o  NO x.

As of March 21, 2008, there were outstanding 13,624,923 shares of the Registrant’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share. The aggregate market value of common stock outstanding held by non-affiliates of the Registrant as of June 29, 2007 was $62,526,298.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
1. Portions of Registrant’s Definitive Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Stockholders Meeting (Part III).
 

 
(THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK)
 

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
Table of Contents

       
Page
Number
PART I
   
         
Item 1.
 
Business
 
1
   
General
 
1
   
Market
 
3
   
Competition
 
4
   
Lending Activities
 
4
   
Investment Activities
 
21
   
Sources of Funds
 
23
   
How We Are Regulated
 
26
Item 1A.
 
Risk Factors
 
35
Item 1B.
 
Unresolved Staff Comments
 
41
Item 2.
 
Properties
 
41
Item 3.
 
Legal Proceedings
 
42
Item 4.
 
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
 
42
         
PART II
   
         
Item 5.
 
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
47
Item 6.
 
Selected Financial Data
 
50
Item 7.
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
52
   
General
 
52
   
Critical Accounting Policies
 
52
   
Business Strategy
 
54
   
Financial Condition
 
56
   
Results of Operations
 
61
   
Average Balances, Net Interest Income, Yields Earned, and Rates Paid
 
61
   
Rate/Volume Analysis
 
63
   
Liquidity
 
71
   
Contractual Obligations and Commitments
 
72
   
Capital Resources
 
73
   
Inflation
 
74
   
Future Accounting Pronouncements
 
74
Item 7A.
 
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
75
Item 8.
 
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
 
78
   
Report of Independent Registered Public Accountant
 
78
   
Financial Statements
 
79
   
Notes to Financial Statements
 
85
Item 9.
 
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
 
117
Item 9A.
 
Controls and Procedures
 
117
Item 9B.
 
Other Information
 
118
 

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
Table of Contents, continued

PART III
   
         
Item 10.
 
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
 
119
Item 11.
 
Executive Compensation
 
119
Item 12.
 
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
 
119
Item 13.
 
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
 
119
Item 14.
 
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
 
119
         
PART IV
   
         
Item 15.
 
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
 
119
Form 10-K
 
Signature Page
 
121
Exhibit 21.
 
Subsidiaries of Registrant
 
122
Exhibit 23.1
 
Consent of Crowe Chizek and Company LLC
 
123
Exhibit 31.1
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
124
Exhibit 31.2
 
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
126
Exhibit 32.
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
128
 

 
PART I

Item 1.  Business

General

This Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements which are statements that are not historical or current facts. When used in this filing and in future filings by Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s press releases or other public or shareholder communications, or in oral statements made with the approval of an authorized executive officer, the words or phrases, “anticipate,” “would be,” “will allow,” “intends to,” “will likely result,” “are expected to,” will continue,” “is anticipated,” “estimated,” “projected,” or similar expressions are intended to identify, “forward looking statements.” Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to changes in economic conditions in Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s market area, changes in policies by regulatory agencies, fluctuations in interest rates, demand for loans in Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s market area, changes in the position of banking regulators on the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, and competition, all or some of which could cause actual results to differ materially from historical earnings and those presently anticipated or projected.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation wishes to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made, and advise readers that various factors, including regional and national economic conditions, substantial changes in levels of market interest rates, credit and other risks of lending and investing activities, and competitive and regulatory factors, could affect Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s financial performance and could cause Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s actual results for future periods to differ materially from those anticipated or projected.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect occurrences or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation (or the “Stock Company”) is a federally chartered stock holding company and is subject to regulation by the Office of Thrift Supervision (“OTS”). The Stock Company was organized on January 1, 2003 as part of a three-tier mutual holding company reorganization plan adopted on May 30, 2002, for the purpose of acquiring all of the capital stock issued upon reorganization of Atlantic Coast Bank (or the “Bank”), formerly known as Atlantic Coast Federal, a federally chartered stock savings association, together referred to as the Company. Since the primary activity to date of the Stock Company is holding all of the stock of Atlantic Coast Bank, the terms “Bank” and “Company” may be used interchangeably throughout this Form 10-K.
 
On October 4, 2004, Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation completed a minority stock offering in which it sold 5,819,000 shares or 40% of its common stock to eligible depositors and the Bank’s Employee Stock Option Plan (“ESOP”), with the majority of the 14,547,500 shares outstanding being retained by Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC (the “MHC”). Net proceeds from the sale of the shares were of $51.7 million, net of conversion expenses of $1.9 million and proceeds loaned to the ESOP of $4.7 million. Use of the proceeds is discussed in the Business Strategy section of this Item.
 
1


In July 2005, the Stock Company issued, out of previously authorized but unissued common stock, 258,469 shares of common stock as restricted stock awards to outside directors and key employees under the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 2005 Recognition and Retention Plan (the “Recognition Plan”). The Stock Company also conducted common stock repurchase programs during 2005, 2006 and 2007, resulting in the repurchase of 1,131,867 shares or 7.6% of total outstanding shares of common stock. At December 31, 2007, the MHC owns 63.8%, or 8,728,500 shares, of the stock of the Stock Company, with the remaining 36.2%, or 4,953,102 shares held by persons other than the MHC. The Stock Company holds 100% of Atlantic Coast Bank's outstanding common stock.

On December 12, 2007, the Company announced the termination of its Second-Step Conversion under the Plan of Conversion and Reorganization previously adopted on May 7, 2007, due to a weak market for financial institution securities. We received OTS approval and a majority vote by the eligible members (which is limited to two years from the approval date) of the MHC. There can be no assurance when, if ever, the Company will effect the Second-Step Conversion. See “Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation - Conversion of Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC to Stock Form.”

The Stock Company has not engaged in any significant business to date. Its primary activity is holding all of the stock of Atlantic Coast Bank. In the future Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation may pursue other business activities, including mergers and acquisitions, investment alternatives and diversification of operations. There are, however, no current agreements in place for these activities. Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation does not maintain offices separate from those of Atlantic Coast Bank or utilize persons other than certain of Atlantic Coast Bank’s officers. Officers that serve as directors of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation are not separately compensated for their service.

Atlantic Coast Bank was originally established in 1939 as a credit union to serve the employees of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad. At the time of the conversion from a federal credit union to a federal mutual savings association the Bank’s field of membership consisted of about 125 various employee groups, residents of Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Pierce and Ware counties in Georgia, and employees of CSX Transportation Inc. (“CSX”), which is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. However, as a credit union, the Bank was legally restricted to serve only individuals who shared a “common bond” such as a common employer.
 
 
2

 
On November 1, 2000, after receiving the necessary regulatory and membership approvals, Atlantic Coast Federal Credit Union converted to a federal mutual savings association known as Atlantic Coast Bank that serves the general public. The conversion has allowed the Bank to diversify its customer base by marketing products and services to individuals and businesses in its market area. Unlike a credit union, the Bank may make loans to customers who do not have a deposit relationship. Following the conversion management of the Bank began to emphasize residential mortgage lending and commercial real estate loans and to reduce automobile and consumer lending activities which had become unattractive lines of business due to delinquencies, charge-offs and competitive pressures from financing programs offered by the automobile manufacturers. Consumer lending, such as credit cards, have also incurred historically high delinquency and charge-off rates. See “-Lending Activities.”

The Bank’s principal business consists of attracting retail deposits from the general public and investing those funds primarily in permanent loans secured by first mortgages on owner-occupied, one- to four-family residences, home equity loans, commercial real estate loans and, to a lesser extent, automobile and consumer loans. The Bank also originates multi-family residential loans, commercial business loans and commercial construction and residential construction loans. Loans are obtained through retail staff, through brokers, participations with other financial institutions, and wholesale purchases.

Revenues are derived principally from interest on loans and other interest earning assets, such as investment securities. To a lesser extent, revenue is generated from service charges and other income.

The Bank offers a variety of deposit accounts having a wide range of interest rates and terms, which generally include savings accounts, money market accounts, demand deposit accounts and time deposit accounts with varied terms ranging from 90 days to five years. Deposits are solicited in the Bank’s primary market area of southeastern Georgia and the Jacksonville metropolitan area.

Market Area

We intend to continue to be a community-oriented financial institution offering a variety of financial services to meet the needs of the communities we serve. We are headquartered in Waycross, Georgia, with branches located in Waycross, Douglas and Garden City, Georgia, as well as the Jacksonville metropolitan area, Jacksonville Beach, Orange Park, Neptune Beach, Fernandina Beach and Julington Creek. We also have a branch in Lake City, Florida, which is located approximately 60 miles west of Jacksonville, Florida. Waycross is located in Ware County, Georgia and the dominant employer in Waycross is CSX Transportation, Inc., which operates a major railroad facility there. Other major employers include the Satilla Regional Medical Center and the Ware County Board of Education. The market area of southeastern Georgia is marked by limited growth trends and has a largely agricultural-based economy. Based on the latest FDIC deposit share data, Atlantic Coast Bank’s approximate deposit market share in Chatham, Coffee and Ware counties, Georgia was 3.39% and in Clay, Columbia, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties, Florida was 1.35%. The Jacksonville market is one of the most affordable cities in Florida with ample employment opportunities. The major employers in the Jacksonville metropolitan area include two United States Naval Air Stations, the Duval County Public School System and the City of Jacksonville. The city serves not only as a financial hub, but also as a regional healthcare and insurance center. It also has a healthy tourism industry, has recently become active as a host city for major sporting events such as the Tournament Players Championship (TPC), the Super Bowl in 2005, and was a 2006 NCAA basketball tournament regional site. It is also home to the third largest port in Florida.
 
3

 
Competition

The Bank faces strong competition in attracting deposits and originating real estate and other loans. Historically, our most direct competition for deposits has come from credit unions, community banks, large commercial banks and thrift institutions within our primary market areas. In recent years competition has also come from institutions that largely deliver their services over the internet. Such competitors have the competitive advantage of lower infrastructure costs. Particularly during times of extremely low or extremely high interest rates, we have faced significant competition for investors’ funds from short-term money market securities and other corporate and government securities. During periods of regularly increasing interest rates, competition for interest-bearing deposits increases as customers, particularly time deposit customers, tend to move their accounts between competing businesses to obtain the highest rates in the market. The Bank competes for these deposits by offering superior service, competitive rates and a unique ATM arrangement that gives the Bank’s customers use of all competitor ATM at a discounted or no fee charge. As of December 31, 2007, management believes that the Bank held approximately 1.68% of the deposits in its primary market areas.

Competition within our geographic markets also affects our ability to obtain loans through origination or purchase as well as originating them at rates that provide an attractive yield. Competition for loans comes principally from mortgage bankers, commercial banks, other thrift institutions, nationally based homebuilders and credit unions. Internet based lenders have also become a greater competitive factor in recent years. Such competition for the origination and purchase of loans may limit future growth and earnings prospects. 
 
Lending Activities

General. We originate one- to four-family residential first and second mortgage loans, home-equity loans, land and multi-family real estate loans, commercial real estate loans, construction loans and to a lesser extent automobile and other consumer loans. We also purchase loans, principally one- to four-family residential mortgages, in the form of whole loans as well as participation interests, for interest rate risk management, portfolio diversification and to supplement organic loan growth. We do not however originate or purchase sub-prime loans or offer teaser rate (very low, temporary introductory rate) loans. Additionally, we underwrite all loans on a fully indexed, fully amortizing basis. Loans carry either a fixed or adjustable rate of interest. Mortgage loans generally have a longer-term amortization, with maturities generally up to 40 years, with principal and interest due each month. Consumer loans are generally short-term and amortize monthly or have interest payable monthly. At December 31, 2007, the net loan portfolio totaled $703.5 million, which constituted 75.6% of total assets. Commercial real estate, commercial business and nonresidential construction loans are generally larger and involve a greater degree of credit risk than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. For a description of the primary risks associated with our non-residential loan portfolio, please see “Risk Factors―The Loan Portfolio Possesses Increased Risk Due To Our Growing Number of Commercial Real Estate, Commercial Business And Construction Loans Which Could Increase Our Level Of Provision For Loan Losses.” At December 31, 2007, the maximum amount that we could have loaned to any one borrower and related entities under applicable regulations was approximately $11.3 million. At December 31, 2007, we had no loans or group of loans to related borrowers with outstanding balances in excess of this amount. Our largest lending relationship is comprised of five loans totaling $6.5 million secured by income producing commercial real estate and a vacant parcel of land. Our second largest relationship is comprised of four loans totaling $6.4 million secured by income producing commercial real estate. Our third largest relationship is a $5.0 million loan and is secured by income producing commercial real estate. Our fourth largest relationship is a $4.3 million loan that is secured by commercial real estate, equipment and the guarantor’s primary residence. The fifth largest relationship is a $4.1 million commercial loan participation secured by a group of operating hotels. All of the above described loans have personal guarantees as a secondary source of repayment and were performing in accordance with their terms at December 31, 2007.
 
4

 
The following table presents information concerning the composition of Atlantic Coast Bank’s loan portfolio in dollar amounts and in percentages at the dates indicated.

   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
2003
 
   
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Real estate loans:
                                         
One- to four-family
 
$
377,956
   
53.51
%  
$
334,000
   
52.14
%  
$
324,681
   
55.88
%  
$
303,544
   
58.44
%  
$
236,959
   
53.73
%
Commercial
   
74,748
   
10.58
%
 
60,912
   
9.51
%
 
59,074
   
10.16
%
 
57,178
   
11.01
%
 
56,228
   
12.75
%
Other (land & multifamily)
   
40,698
   
5.76
%
 
34,446
   
5.38
%
 
20,302
   
3.49
%
 
20,120
   
3.87
%
 
13,568
   
3.08
%
Total real estate loans
   
493,402
   
69.85
%
 
429,358
   
67.03
%
 
404,057
   
69.53
%
 
380,842
   
73.32
%
 
306,755
   
69.56
%
                                                               
Real estate construction loans:
                                                             
Construction-one- to four-family
   
13,448
   
1.90
%
 
32,467
   
5.07
%
 
24,243
   
4.17
%
 
14,275
   
2.75
%
 
11,913
   
2.70
%
Construction-commercial
   
11,129
   
1.58
%
 
2,862
   
0.45
%
 
2,577
   
0.44
%
 
2,577
   
0.50
%
 
18,663
   
4.23
%
Acquisition & development
   
5,329
   
0.75
%
 
2,103
   
0.33
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
Total real estate construction loans
   
29,906
   
4.23
%
 
37,432
   
5.85
%
 
26,820
   
4.61
%
 
16,852
   
3.25
%
 
30,576
   
6.93
%
                                                               
Other loans:
                                                             
Home equity
   
98,410
   
13.93
%
 
91,062
   
14.22
%
 
79,016
   
13.60
%
 
60,077
   
11.57
%
 
39,217
   
8.89
%
Consumer
   
64,673
   
9.16
%
 
63,630
   
9.93
%
 
62,846
   
10.81
%
 
57,893
   
11.15
%
 
60,925
   
13.81
%
Commercial
   
20,009
   
2.83
%
 
19,044
   
2.97
%
 
8,430
   
1.45
%
 
3,711
   
0.71
%
 
3,553
   
0.81
%
Total other loans
   
183,092
   
25.92
%
 
173,736
   
27.12
%
 
150,292
   
25.86
%
 
121,681
   
23.43
%
 
103,695
   
23.51
%
                                                               
Total loans
   
706,400
   
100.00
%
 
640,526
   
100.00
%
 
581,169
   
100.00
%
 
519,375
   
100.00
%
 
441,026
   
100.00
%
                                                               
Less:
                                                             
Net deferred loan origination costs
   
3,256
         
3,348
         
3,164
         
1,473
         
554
       
Premiums on purchased loans
   
339
         
348
         
695
         
819
         
635
       
Allowance for loan losses
   
(6,482
)
       
(4,705
)
       
(4,587
)
       
(3,956
)
       
(6,593
)
     
Total loans, net
 
$
703,513
       
$
639,517
       
$
580,441
       
$
517,711
       
$
435,622
       
 
5

 
The following table presents the composition of Atlantic Coast Bank’s loan portfolio by fixed and adjustable-rate at the dates indicated.
 
   
At December 31,
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
2003
 
  
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
   
 (Dollars in Thousands)
 
FIXED-RATE LOANS
                                         
Real estate loans:
                                         
One- to four-family
 
$
172,730
   
24.45
$
115,453
   
18.02
$
113,590
   
19.55
$
118,515
   
22.82
$
136,155
   
30.87
%
Commercial
   
40,298
   
5.70
%
 
23,840
   
3.72
%
 
22,612
   
3.89
%
 
33,568
   
6.46
%
 
29,662
   
6.73
%
Other (land and multi-family)
   
20,078
   
2.85
%
 
15,780
   
2.46
%
 
8,474
   
1.46
%
 
5,436
   
1.05
%
 
13,568
   
3.08
%
Total real estate loans
   
233,106
   
33.00
%
 
155,073
   
24.20
%
 
144,676
   
24.90
%
 
157,519
   
30.33
%
 
179,385
   
40.68
%
Real estate construction loans:
                                                             
Construction-one- to four-family
   
4,773
   
0.68
%
 
4,046
   
0.63
%
 
16,418
   
2.82
%
 
14,275
   
2.74
%
 
4,327
   
0.98
%
Construction-commercial
   
750
   
0.11
%
 
1,758
   
0.27
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
 
600
   
0.12
%
 
11,721
   
2.66
%
Acquisition & development
   
-
   
0.00
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
Total real estate construction loans
   
5,523
   
0.79
%
 
5,804
   
0.90
%
 
16,418
   
2.82
%
 
14,875
   
2.86
%
 
16,048
   
3.64
%
Other loans:
                                                             
Home equity
   
23,355
   
3.31
%
 
20,176
   
3.15
%
 
13,184
   
2.27
%
 
7,994
   
1.54
%
 
8,257
   
1.87
%
Consumer
   
63,472
   
8.99
%
 
62,868
   
9.82
%
 
62,343
   
10.73
%
 
57,409
   
11.05
%
 
60,925
   
13.81
%
Commercial
   
6,947
   
0.98
%
 
2,349
   
0.37
%
 
535
   
0.09
%
 
2,370
   
0.46
%
 
3,553
   
0.81
%
Total other loans
   
93,774
   
13.28
%
 
85,393
   
13.34
%
 
76,062
   
13.09
%
 
67,773
   
13.05
%
 
72,735
   
16.49
%
Total fixed-rate loans
   
332,403
   
47.06
%
 
246,270
   
38.44
%
 
237,156
   
40.81
%
 
240,167
   
46.24
%
 
268,168
   
60.81
%
                                                               
ADJUSTABLE-RATE LOANS 
                                                             
Real estate loans: 
                                                             
One-to-four-family
   
205,226
   
29.05
%
 
218,547
   
34.12
%
 
211,091
   
36.31
%
 
185,029
   
35.62
%
 
100,804
   
22.86
%
Commercial
   
34,450
   
4.88
%
 
37,072
   
5.79
%
 
36,462
   
6.27
%
 
23,610
   
4.55
%
 
26,566
   
6.02
%
Other (land and multi-family)
   
20,620
   
2.92
%
 
18,666
   
2.91
%
 
11,828
   
2.04
%
 
14,684
   
2.83
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
Total real estate loans
   
260,296
   
36.85
%
 
274,285
   
42.82
%
 
259,381
   
44.62
%
 
223,323
   
43.00
%
 
127,370
   
28.88
%
Real estate construction loans:
                                                             
Construction-one- to four-family
   
8,675
   
1.23
%
 
28,421
   
4.44
%
 
7,825
   
1.35
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
 
7,586
   
1.72
%
Construction-commercial
   
10,379
   
1.47
%
 
1,104
   
0.17
%
 
2,577
   
0.44
%
 
1,977
   
0.38
%
 
6,942
   
1.57
%
Acquisition & development
   
5,329
   
0.75
%
 
2,103
   
0.33
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
Total real estate construction loans
   
24,383
   
3.45
%
 
31,628
   
4.94
%
 
10,402
   
1.79
%
 
1,977
   
0.38
%
 
14,528
   
3.29
%
Other loans:
                                                             
Home equity
   
75,055
   
10.63
%
 
70,886
   
11.07
%
 
65,832
   
11.33
%
 
52,083
   
10.03
%
 
30,960
   
7.02
%
Consumer
   
1,201
   
0.17
%
 
762
   
0.12
%
 
503
   
0.09
%
 
484
   
0.09
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
Commercial
   
13,062
   
1.85
%
 
16,695
   
2.61
%
 
7,895
   
1.36
%
 
1,341
   
0.26
%
 
-
   
0.00
%
Total other loans
   
89,318
   
12.65
%
 
88,343
   
13.80
%
 
74,230
   
12.78
%
 
53,908
   
10.38
%
 
30,960
   
7.02
%
Total adjustable-rate loans
   
373,997
   
52.94
%
 
394,256
   
61.56
%
 
344,013
   
59.19
%
 
279,208
   
53.76
%
 
172,858
   
39.19
%
                                                               
Total loans
 
$
706,400
   
100.00
$
640,526
   
100.00
$
581,169
   
100.00
$
519,375
   
100.00
$
441,026
   
100.00
%
Less:
                                                             
Net deferred loan origination costs
   
3,256
   
   
3,348
   
   
3,164
   
   
1,473
   
   
554
   
 
Premiums on purchased loans
   
339
   
   
348
   
   
695
   
   
819
   
   
635
   
 
Allowance for loan losses
   
(6,482
)
 
   
(4,705
)
 
   
(4,587
)
 
   
(3,956
)
 
   
(6,593
)
 
 
Total loans, net
 
$
703,513
   
 
$
639,517
   
 
$
580,441
   
 
$
517,711
   
 
$
435,622
   
 
 
 
6

 
Loan Maturity and Repricing. The following table sets forth certain information at December 31, 2007 regarding the dollar amount of loans maturing in Atlantic Coast Bank’s portfolio based on their contractual terms to maturity, but does not include scheduled payments or potential prepayments. Demand loans, loans having no stated schedule of repayments and no stated maturity are reported as due in one year or less. Loan balances do not include un-disbursed loan proceeds, unearned discounts, unearned income and allowance for loan losses.

   
One to Four Family
 
Commercial Real
Estate
 
Other Real Estate(1)
 
Construction-One- to
four-family (2)
 
Construction-
Commercial (2)
 
Acquisition &
Development
 
At December 31, 2007
 
Amount
 
Weighted
Average
Rate (%)
 
Amount
 
Weighted
Average
Rate (%)
 
  Amount  
 
Weighted
Average
  Rate (%)  
 
  Amount  
 
Weighted
Average
  Rate (%)  
 
Amount
 
Weighted
Average
Rate (%)
 
Amount
 
Weighted
Average
Rate (%)
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
                                                   
1 year or less
 
1,295
   
4.00
 
15,575
   
7.74
 
10,899
   
7.96
 
1,930
   
8.43
 
5,528
   
8.44
 
2,751
   
7.74
 
Greater than 1 to 3 years
   
2,116
   
5.41
   
12,169
   
7.89
   
5,385
   
6.90
   
-
   
-
   
607
   
8.63
   
2,578
   
7.75
 
Greater than 3 to 5 years
   
3,732
   
5.77
   
16,044
   
7.72
   
8,745
   
9.02
   
-
   
-
   
3,994
   
7.00
   
-
   
-
 
Greater than 5 to 10 years
   
8,346
   
6.45
   
20,240
   
7.06
   
4,144
   
7.70
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Greater than 10 to 20 years
   
52,881
   
5.84
   
10,145
   
7.29
   
8,020
   
6.83
   
393
   
5.91
   
1,000
   
6.29
   
-
   
-
 
More than 20 years
   
309,586
   
5.96
   
575
   
6.62
   
3,505
   
7.26
   
11,125
   
6.83
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Total
 
$
377,956
       
$
74,748
       
$
40,698
       
$
13,448
       
$
11,129
       
$
5,329
       

   
Home Equity
 
Consumer
 
Commercial
 
Total
 
At December 31, 2007
 
Amount
 
Weighted
Average
Rate (%)
 
Amount
 
Weighted
Average
Rate (%)
 
Amount
 
Weighted
Average
Rate (%)
 
Amount
 
Weighted
Average
Rate (%)
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
                                   
1 year or less
 
$
22
   
9.61
 
$
2,283
   
8.30
 
$
8,380
   
7.70
 
$
49,204
   
7.82
 
Greater than 1 to 3 years
   
1,128
   
8.11
   
13,520
   
10.39
   
4,755
   
7.36
   
42,259
   
8.39
 
Greater than 3 to 5 years
   
6,647
   
8.06
   
26,943
   
10.69
   
4,125
   
7.60
   
70,230
   
8.90
 
Greater than 5 to 10 years
   
6,678
   
8.38
   
6,022
   
8.57
   
2,749
   
7.88
   
48,177
   
7.43
 
Greater than 10 to 20 years
   
20,269
   
8.93
   
13,882
   
8.20
   
-
   
-
   
106,590
   
6.95
 
More than 20 years
   
63,666
   
8.11
   
1,483
   
7.95
   
-
   
-
   
389,940
   
6.36
 
Total
 
$
98,410
       
$
64,673
       
$
20,009
   
 
$
706,400
   
 
 
 
(1)
Land and multi-family.
 
(2)
Construction loans include notes that cover both the construction period and the end permanent financing, and therefore, the schedule shows maturities for periods greater than one year.
 
7

 
The following schedule illustrates the interest rate sensitivity of Atlantic Coast Bank’s loan portfolio at December 31, 2007. Loans which have adjustable or renegotiable interest rates are shown as maturing in the period during which the loan reprices. The schedule does not include scheduled payments or potential prepayments.

   
One- to Four-
      Family      
 
Commercial
Real Estate
 
Other –Real
   Estate (1)   
 
Construction
One- to four-
        family (2)        
 
Construction
Commercial (2)
 
Acquisition &
Development
 
Home Equity
 
Consumer
 
Commercial
 
Total
 
   
Amount
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
                                           
1 year or less 
 
$
54,784
 
$
30,299
 
$
16,731
 
$
3,672
 
$
10,379
 
$
5,329
  
$
53,607
 
$
3,963
 
$
16,013
 
194,777
 
Greater than 1 to 3 years
   
108,870
   
12,692
   
7,670
   
1,160
   
-
   
-
   
21,475
   
13,520
   
707
   
166,094
 
Greater than 3 to 5 years
   
41,483
   
15,366
   
9,364
   
3,125
   
-
   
-
   
6,494
   
26,943
   
963
   
103,740
 
Greater than 5 to 10 years
   
14,074
   
12,996
   
2,265
   
73
   
-
   
-
   
5,590
   
5,153
   
2,324
   
42,475
 
Greater than 10 to 20 years
   
43,158
   
3,395
   
4,668
   
393
   
750
   
-
   
9,673
   
13,611
   
-
   
75,648
 
More than 20 years
   
115,587
   
-
   
-
   
3,025
   
-
   
-
   
1,571
   
1,483
   
-
   
123,666
 
                                                               
Total
 
$
377,956
 
$
74,748
 
$
40,698
 
$
13,448
 
$
11,129
 
$
5,329
 
$
98,410
 
$
64,673
 
$
20,009
 
$
706,400
 

 
(1)
Land and multi-family.
 
(2)
Construction loans include notes that cover both the construction period and the end permanent financing, and therefore, the schedule shows repricing dates greater than one year.
 
8

 
The following table sets forth the scheduled repayments of fixed- and adjustable-rate loans at December 31, 2007 that are contractually due after December 31, 2008.
 
   
Due After December 31, 2008
 
   
Fixed Rate
 
Adjustable Rate
 
Total
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Real estate loans:
             
One- to four-family
 
$
171,520
 
$
205,221
 
$
376,741
 
Commercial
   
34,866
   
24,307
   
59,173
 
Other(1)
   
17,496
   
12,303
   
29,799
 
                     
Construction loans:
                   
One- to four-family
 
$
4,773
 
$
6,745
 
$
11,518
 
Commercial
   
75
   
4,850
   
5,600
 
Acquisition & development
   
-
   
2,579
   
2,579
 
                     
Other loans:
                   
Home equity
 
$
23,354
 
$
75,034
 
$
98,388
 
Consumer
   
19,371
   
-
   
19,371
 
Commercial business
   
3,308
   
8,340
   
11,648
 
                     
Total loans
 
$
275,438
 
$
339,379
 
$
614,817
 
 

 
(1)
Land and multi-family loans.
 
One- to Four-Family Real Estate Lending. At December 31, 2007, one- to four-family residential mortgage loans totaled $378.0 million, or 53.5%, of the gross loan portfolio. Generally, one- to four-family loans are underwritten based on the applicant’s employment, income, credit history and the appraised value of the subject property. The Bank will generally lend up to 80% of the lesser of the appraised value or purchase price for one- to four-family residential loans. Should a loan be granted with a loan-to-value ratio in excess of 80%, private mortgage insurance would be required to reduce overall exposure to below 80%. For highly credit worthy borrowers, the ratio may be extended to 89.9% depending on the occupancy of the property. Borrowers electing an interest only payment are qualified using a fully amortizing payment based on the fully indexed interest rate. As of December 31, 2007 the interest only portfolio totaled $101.6 million, 14.4% of the total loan portfolio, and 20.6% of the total mortgage loan portfolio.

Properties securing one- to four-family loans are generally appraised by independent fee appraisers approved by the board of directors. Borrowers are required to obtain title and hazard insurance, and flood insurance, if necessary, in an amount not less than the value of the property improvements. Currently, the Bank originates one- to four-family mortgage loans on a fixed-rate and adjustable-rate basis. Management’s pricing strategy for mortgage loans includes setting interest rates that are competitive with other local financial institutions and consistent with the Bank’s internal needs. Adjustable-rate loans are tied to a variety of indices including rates based on U. S. Treasury securities. The majority of adjustable-rate loans carry an initial fixed rate of interest for either three or five years which then convert to an interest rate that is adjusted based upon the applicable index and in accordance with the note. The Bank’s home mortgages are structured with a five to forty year maturity, with amortizations up to 40-years. Substantially all of the one- to four-family loans originated are secured by properties located in southeastern Georgia and the metropolitan Jacksonville area.

All of the residential real estate loans contain a “due on sale” clause allowing the Bank to declare the unpaid principal balance due and payable upon the sale of the security property, subject to certain laws. Loans originated or purchased are generally underwritten and documented pursuant to Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae guidelines. The Bank sells loans to investors on the secondary market to fulfill customer demand for product(s) that do not fit in the Bank’s portfolio strategy.
 
9

 
Commercial Real Estate Lending. The Bank offers commercial real estate loans for both permanent financing and construction. These loans are typically secured by small retail establishments, rental properties, storage facilities, and office buildings located in the Bank’s primary market area. At December 31, 2007, permanent commercial real estate loans totaled $74.7 million, or 10.6%, of the gross loan portfolio.

The Bank originates both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate commercial real estate loans. The interest rate on adjustable- rate loans is tied to a variety of indices, including rates based on the Prime Rate and U.S. Treasury securities. The majority of the Bank’s adjustable-rate loans carry an initial fixed-rate of interest for either three or five years and then convert to an interest rate that is adjusted annually based upon the index. Loan-to-value ratios on commercial real estate loans generally do not exceed 80% of the appraised value of the property securing the loan. These loans require monthly payments, amortize up to 25 years, and generally have maturities of up to 10 years and may carry pre-payment penalties.

Loans secured by commercial real estate are underwritten based on the cash flow of the borrower or income producing potential of the property and the financial strength of the borrower and guarantors. Loan guarantees are generally obtained from financially capable parties based on a review of personal financial statements. The Bank requires that commercial real estate borrowers with balances in excess of $250,000 submit financial statements, including rent rolls if applicable, annually. The net operating income, which is the income derived from the operation of the property less all operating expenses, must be sufficient to cover the payments related to the outstanding debt. Rent or lease assignments are required in order for us to be assured that the cash flow from the project will be used to repay the debt. Appraisals on properties securing commercial real estate loans are performed by independent state-licensed fee appraisers approved by the board of directors. The majority of the properties securing commercial real estate loans are located in the Bank’s market area.

Loans secured by commercial real estate properties are generally larger and involve a greater degree of credit risk than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. Because payments on loans secured by commercial real estate properties are often dependent on the successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of such loans may be subject to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. If the cash flow from the project is reduced, or if leases are not obtained or renewed, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired. See “- Asset Quality - Non-Performing Loans.”

Other Real Estate Loans. As of December 31, 2007, other real estate secured loans totaled $40.7 million and consisted mainly of land loans, but also includes loans secured by multi-family property. The Bank offers land loan financing to commercial and individual borrowers who can support the debt service. Loans to commercial and individual borrowers secured by land totaled $32.8 million, or 4.6 % of the gross loan portfolio, and loans secured by multi-family property totaled $7.9 million, or 1.1% of the gross loan portfolio as of December 31, 2007. Generally, these loans carry a higher rate of interest than do residential permanent loans. The Bank generally underwrites land loans based on the borrower’s ability to repay, credit history and the appraised value of the subject property. The Bank may lend up to 90% of the lesser of the appraised value or purchase price on land loans to individuals.
 
10

 
The Bank offers both fixed and adjustable rate land loans to commercial borrowers. Essentially all of these loans are secured by property located in the Bank’s primary market areas of Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia. The loans carry a maximum loan-to-value of 65%. If the borrower is a limited liability company or corporation, the Bank will generally obtain personal loan guarantees from the principals of the borrowing entity based on a review of their personal financial statements and personal credit report information. Loans to commercial borrowers secured by land are generally larger and involve a greater degree of credit risk than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. Repayment of such loans may be subject to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. If the cash flow of the borrowing entity or guarantors is reduced, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired.

The Bank also offers loans secured by multi-family residential real estate. These loans are secured by real estate located in the Bank’s primary market area. At December 31, 2007, multi-family residential loans totaled $7.9 million. Multi-family residential loans are generally originated with adjustable interest rates based on the prime rate or U.S. Treasury securities. Loan-to-value ratios on multi-family residential loans do not exceed 75% of the appraised value of the property securing the loan. These loans require monthly payments and amortize over a period of up to 30 years. Loans secured by multi-family residential real estate are underwritten based on the income producing potential of the property and the financial strength of the borrower. The net operating income must be sufficient to cover the payments related to the outstanding debt. Rent or lease assignments are required in order for us to be assured that the cash flow from the project will be used to repay the debt. Appraisals on properties securing multi-family residential loans are performed by independent state licensed fee appraisers approved by the board of directors.

Real Estate Construction Lending. As of December 31, 2007, loans for the construction of real estate totaled $29.9 million, or 4.2% of the gross loan portfolio. The real estate construction portfolio consists of both residential and commercial construction loans. Residential construction loans, including those purchased from brokers, are generally made for the construction of pre-sold builder homes to individual borrowers. As of December 31, 2007, the Bank had $13.4 million in residential construction loans. Residential construction loans are underwritten according to the terms available on the secondary market. Generally, construction loans are limited to a loan to value ratio not to exceed 85% based on the lesser of construction costs or the appraised value of the property upon completion. The Bank offers both construction only and construction-to-permanent loans.

Construction only loans to individuals generally have a term of 12 months with a variable interest rate tied to the prime rate as published in the Wall Street Journal plus a margin ranging from .50% to 1.5% with a loan to value ratio of no more than 85% of the cost of the construction or appraised value of the property, whichever is less. These loans are underwritten according to secondary market guidelines and must qualify for permanent financing as part of the origination process even if the permanent financing will be obtained from another mortgage lender. The Bank also originates construction only loans to builders to finance the construction of one- to four-family residences. The builder must have sufficient cash flow to repay the debt based term loan. As of December 31, 2007, loans to builders for the construction of pre-sold or speculative one- to four-family residential property and lot inventory totaled $2.4 million.

Construction-to-permanent loans are structured where one closing occurs for both the construction and the permanent financing. During the construction phase, which can last up to 18 months depending on the nature of the residence being built, a member of the loan servicing staff, the original appraiser, or a fee inspector makes inspections of the site and loan proceeds are disbursed directly to contractors or borrowers in accordance with the loan funding schedule as construction progresses. Borrowers are required to pay interest only during the construction phase with the loan converting to the terms of the amortizing note once the construction is completed. Typically, these loans convert to adjustable rate loans which are either held in portfolio or sold on the secondary market.
 
11

 
Home-Equity Lending. The Bank currently originates both fixed-term fully amortizing home equity loans and open-ended interest only home equity lines of credit. At December 31, 2007, the portfolio totaled $98.4 million, or 13.9%, of the gross loan portfolio. The Bank generally underwrites one- to four-family home equity loans based on the applicant’s employment and credit history and the appraised value of the subject property. Presently, the Bank will lend up to 80% of the appraised value less any prior liens. For high credit worthy borrowers the Bank may lend up to 95% of the appraised value less any prior liens. This ratio may be reduced in accordance with internal guidelines given the risk and credit profile of the borrower. Properties securing one- to four-family mortgage loans are generally appraised by independent fee appraisers approved by the board of directors or the value is determined using a qualified asset valuation model. The Bank requires a title search and hazard insurance, and flood insurance, if necessary, in an amount not less than the value of the property improvements.

The Bank’s home equity lines of credit carry an adjustable interest rate based upon the prime rate of interest. As of December 31, 2007, interest only lines of credit totaled $48.0 million, or 48.8% of the total home equity loans, and 9.8%of total mortgage loans. Borrowers requesting interest only lines are qualified using 1% of the commitment amount for determining the borrowers’ capacity to repay. All home equity loans have a maximum draw period of 10 years with a repayment period of up to 20 years following such draw period depending on the outstanding balance. Currently these loans are retained in the Bank’s loan portfolio.

Consumer Loans. The Bank currently offers a variety of consumer loans. Consumer loans are principally fixed rate, generally have shorter terms to maturity, thereby reducing exposure to changes in interest rates, and carry higher rates of interest than do one- to four-family residential mortgage loans. At December 31, 2007, the consumer loan portfolio, inclusive of automobile loans, totaled $64.7 million, or 9.2%, of the gross loan portfolio. In recent years, the consumer lending portfolio as a percentage of the loan portfolio has continued to decrease due to management’s emphasis on real estate loan products.

The most significant component of the Bank’s consumer loan portfolio is automobile loans. Automobile loans are originated primarily on a direct basis to customers through the Bank’s branch network. Loans secured by automobiles totaled $28.3 million, or 4.0 % of the gross loan portfolio as of December 31, 2007. Automobile loans have a fixed rate of interest and carry terms up to seven years for new automobiles and a maximum of five years for used automobiles. Loan-to-value ratios for automobile loans are up to 100% of the sales price for new automobiles and up to 100% of value on used cars, based on valuation from official used car guides.

Consumer loans may entail greater risk than do one- to four-family residential mortgage loans, particularly in the case of consumer loans that are secured by rapidly depreciable assets, such as automobiles. In these cases, any repossessed collateral for a defaulted loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance. As a result, consumer loan collections are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability and, thus, are more likely to be adversely affected by job loss, divorce, illness or personal bankruptcy.

Commercial Business Lending. We also offer commercial business loans which may be secured by assets other than real estate. The purpose of these loans is to provide working capital, inventory financing, or equipment financing. Generally, working capital and inventory loans carry a floating rate of interest based on the prime rate plus a margin and mature annually. Loans to finance equipment generally carry a fixed rate and terms up to seven years. The collateral securing these types of loans is other business assets such as inventory, accounts receivable, and equipment.
 
12

 
Loan Originations, Purchases, and Sales

The Bank originates loans through its branch network, the internet and its call center. Referrals from current customers, advertisements, real estate brokers, mortgage loan brokers and builders are also important sources of loan originations. While the Bank originates both adjustable-rate and fixed-rate loans, origination volume is dependent upon customer loan demand within the Bank’s market area. Demand is affected by local competition, the real estate market and the interest rate environment. The Bank also purchases loans, principally one–to four–family residential mortgages, in the form of whole loans as well as participation interests for interest rate risk management and portfolio diversification and to supplement our organic growth. The Bank purchased approximately $51.4 million of loans during the year ended December 31, 2007. In addition, the Bank may sell participation interests in some of its larger real estate loans.

Asset Quality

When a borrower fails to make a timely payment on a loan, contact is made initially in the form of a reminder letter sent at either 10 or 15 days depending on the term of the loan agreement. If a response is not received within a reasonable period of time, contact by telephone is made in an attempt to determine the reason for the delinquency and to request payment of the delinquent amount in full or to establish an acceptable repayment plan to bring the loan current.

If the borrower is unable to make or keep payment arrangements, additional collection action is taken in the form of repossession of collateral for secured, non-real estate loans and small claims or legal action for unsecured loans. If the loan is secured by real estate, a letter of intent to foreclose is sent to the borrower when an agreement for an acceptable repayment plan can not be established or agreed upon. The letter of intent to foreclose allows the borrower up to 10 days to bring the account current. Once the loan becomes 75 days delinquent and an acceptable repayment plan has not been established, foreclosure action is initiated on the loan.

Real estate loans serviced by a third party are subject to the servicing institution’s collection policies. Contractually, the servicing institutions are required to adhere to collection policies no less stringent than the Bank’s policies. The Bank tracks each purchased loan individually to ensure full payments are received as scheduled. Each month, servicing institutions are required to provide delinquent loan status reports to the Bank’s loan operations department. The status reports are included in the month-end delinquent real estate report to management.

Delinquent Loans. The following table sets forth the Bank’s loans delinquent 60-to-89 days and 90 days or more past due by type, number, amount and percentage of type at December 31, 2007. Total loans past due 60 days or more totaled $11.5 million, or 1.63% of total loans. Real estate loans 60 days or more past due totaled $6.8 million, or 0.96% of total loans. Construction loans 60 days or more past due totaled $2.4 million, or 0.34% of total loans. Other loans (consisting of home equity, consumer, and commercial non-real estate) totaled $2.3 million, or 0.33% of total loans.
 
13

 
   
Loans Delinquent For:
 
Total
 
   
60-89 Days
 
90 Days or More
 
Delinquent Loans
 
Loan Types
 
Number
of
Loans
 
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 
Number
of
Loans
 
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 
Number
of
Loans
 
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Real estate
                         
One- to four-family
   
11
 
$
3,105
   
11
 
$
2,291
   
22
 
$
5,396
 
Commercial
   
1
   
175 -
   
2
   
783
   
3
   
958
 
Other (Land and multi-family)
   
2
   
135
   
5
   
310
   
7
   
445
 
                                       
Real Estate Construction
                                     
Construction - One- to four-family
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Construction – Commercial
   
1
   
1,527
   
1
   
880
   
2
   
2,407
 
Construction - Acquisition & development
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
                                       
Other Loans – Consumer
                                     
Home equity
   
3
   
229
   
11
   
774
   
14
   
1,003
 
Consumer
   
41
   
272
   
62
   
268
   
103
   
540
 
Commercial
   
-
   
-
   
87
   
772
   
87
   
772
 
Total
   
59
 
$
5,443
   
179
 
$
6,078
   
238
 
$
11,521
 
                                       
Delinquent loans to total gross loans
         
0.77
%
       
0.86
%
       
1.63
%

Non-Performing Assets. The following table sets forth the amounts and categories of non-performing assets in the Bank’s loan portfolio. Non-performing assets consist of non-accrual loans, accruing loans past due 90 days and more, and foreclosed assets. Loans to a customer whose financial condition has deteriorated are considered for non-accrual status whether or not the loan is 90 days and over past due. Generally, all loans past due 90 days and over are classified as non-accrual. For loans on non-accrual, interest income is not recognized until actually collected. At the time the loan is placed on non-accrual status, interest previously accrued but not collected is reversed and charged against current income. The increase in other (land & multi-family) non-performing assets was primarily the result of a participation interest in a land loan that is adequately collateralized, thus no specific reserve has been established for this loan. The increase in commercial construction non-performing assets was primarily the result of two participation lending relationships. The first is a partially completed condominium complex that is under-collateralized; a specific reserve of approximately $565,000 has been established for this loan. The second is a substantially completed single-family residence held for sale by the developer that is adequately collateralized, accordingly no specific reserve has been established for this loan. The Bank is not the lead lender with respect to these three loans. At December 31, 2007, the Bank had no loans delinquent 90 days or more that were accruing interest. Loans 90 days or more past due and non-accrual loans as a percentage of total loans were 1.11% and 0.84% of total assets, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2007, contractual gross interest income of $371,000 would have been recorded on non-performing loans if those loans had been current. Interest in the amount of $330,000 was included in income during 2007 on such loans.
 
14

 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
2003
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Nonaccrual loans:
                     
Real Estate
                     
One- to four-family
 
$
2,312
 
$
325
 
$
697
 
$
1,931
 
$
465
 
Commercial
   
280
   
430
   
238
   
3,271
   
5,670
 
Other (Land & multi-family)
   
1,073
   
104
   
109
   
-
   
-
 
                                 
Real Estate Construction
                               
Construction - One-to four-family
   
-
   
551
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Construction - Commercial
   
2,407
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Construction - Acquisition & Development
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
                                 
Other
                               
Home Equity
   
774
   
280
   
35
   
-
   
-
 
Consumer
   
221
   
445
   
597
   
290
   
267
 
Commercial
   
772
   
915
   
940
   
1,166
   
1,165
 
Total
 
$
7,839
 
$
3,050
 
$
2,616
 
$
6,658
 
$
7,567
 
                                 
Accruing delinquent 90 days or more:
                               
                                 
Real Estate
                               
One- to four-family
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Commercial
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Other (Land & multi-family)
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
                                 
Real Estate Construction
                               
Construction - One-to four-family
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Construction - Commercial
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Construction - Acquisition & Development
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
                                 
Other
                               
Home Equity
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Consumer
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Commercial
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Total
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
                                 
Total non-performing loans
   
7,839
   
3,050
   
2,616
   
6,658
   
7,567
 
Foreclosed assets
   
1,726
   
286
   
310
   
323
   
1,079
 
                                 
Total non-performing assets
 
$
9,565
 
$
3,336
 
$
2,926
 
$
6,981
 
$
8,646
 
                                 
Non-performing loans to total loans 
   
1.11
%
 
0.48
%
 
0.45
%
 
1.28
%
 
1.72
%
Non-performing loans to total assets 
   
0.84
%
 
0.36
%
 
0.39
%
 
1.09
%
 
1.73
%

Real Estate Owned and Other Repossessed Assets. Real estate acquired as a result of foreclosure is classified as real estate owned. At the time of foreclosure or repossession, the property is recorded at the lower of its estimated fair value less selling costs or the loan balance, with any write-down charged against the allowance for loan losses. Other repossessed assets are recorded at the lower of the loan balance or fair market value. As of December 31, 2007, the Bank had real estate owned of $1.7 million. For the dates indicated above, the Bank did not have any troubled debt restructurings.
 
15


Classified Assets. Banking regulations provide for the classification of loans and other assets, such as debt and equity securities considered by the Bank and regulators to be of lesser quality, as “substandard,” “doubtful” or “loss.” An asset is considered “substandard” if it is inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. “Substandard” assets include those characterized by the “distinct possibility” that the insured institution will sustain “some loss” if the deficiencies are not corrected. Assets classified as “doubtful” have all of the weaknesses inherent in those classified “substandard,” with the added characteristic that the weaknesses present make “collection or liquidation in full,” on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, “highly questionable and improbable.” Assets classified as “loss” are those considered not collectable and of such little value that their continuance as assets without the establishment of a specific loss reserve is not warranted.

When an insured institution classifies problem assets as either substandard or doubtful, it may establish general allowances for loan losses in an amount deemed prudent by management and approved by the board of directors. General allowances represent loss allowances which have been established to recognize the inherent risk associated with lending activities, but which, unlike specific allowances, have not been allocated to particular problem assets. When an insured institution classifies problem assets as “loss,” it is required either to establish a specific allowance for losses equal to 100% of that portion of the asset so classified or to charge off such amount. An institution’s determination as to the classification of its assets and the amount of its valuation allowances is subject to review by the OTS and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”), which may order the establishment of additional general or specific loss allowances.

In connection with the filing of the Bank’s periodic reports with the OTS and in accordance with its classification of assets policy, management regularly reviews the problem assets in the portfolio to determine whether any assets require classification in accordance with applicable regulations. The total amount of classified assets represented 16.34% of Bank equity capital and 1.34% of Bank total assets at December 31, 2007.

The aggregate amount of classified loans at the dates indicated was as follows:

   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Loss
 
$
-
 
$
-
 
Doubtful
   
1,527
   
686
 
Substandard
   
5,519
   
4,915
 
Total
 
$
7,046
 
$
5,601
 

At December 31, 2007, $7.0 million of classified loans were impaired, as defined under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 114, Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan (“SFAS 114”), up from $2.0 million at year end 2006. Loans considered doubtful were $1.5 million, up from $686,000 at year end 2006. Loans are classified as special mention when it is determined that a loan relationship should be monitored more closely. Loans are classified as special mention for a variety of reasons including changes in recent borrower financial condition, changes in borrower operations, changes in value of available collateral, concerns regarding changes in economic conditions in a borrower’s industry, and other matters. A loan classified as special mention in many instances may be performing in accordance with the loan terms. Special mention loans were $9.8 million and $8.5 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. All loans classified as special mention are performing according to their contractual terms and no losses are anticipated at this time.
 
17

 
Allowance for Loan Losses. An allowance for loan losses is maintained to reflect probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio. The allowance is based on ongoing assessments of the estimated losses incurred in the loan portfolio. Management’s methodology for assessing the appropriateness of the allowance consists of several key elements, which include a SFAS No. 5, Accounting for Contingencies (“SFAS 5”) component by type of loan and specific allowances for identified problem loans. The allowance incorporates the results of measuring impaired loans as provided in SFAS 114 and SFAS No. 118, Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan – Income Recognition and Disclosures. These accounting standards prescribe the measurement methods, income recognition and disclosures related to impaired loans.

The SFAS 5 component is calculated by applying loss factors to outstanding loans based on the internal risk evaluation of the loans or pools of loans. Changes in risk evaluations of both performing and non-performing loans affect the amount of the SFAS 5 component. Loss factors are based on the Bank’s historical loss experience, current market conditions that may impact real estate values within the Bank’s primary lending areas, and on other significant factors that, in management’s judgment, may affect the ability to collect loans in the portfolio as of the evaluation date. Other significant factors that exist as of the balance sheet date that may be considered in determining the adequacy of the allowance include credit quality trends (including trends in non-performing loans expected to result from existing conditions), collateral values, geographic foreclosure rates, new and existing home inventories, loan volumes and concentrations, specific industry conditions within portfolio segments and recent loss experience in particular segments of the portfolio. These factors weighed more prominently in the allowance calculation for 2007 and management believes this trend will continue.  

The appropriateness of the allowance is reviewed and established by management based upon its evaluation of then-existing economic and business conditions affecting the Bank’s key lending areas. Senior credit officers monitor the conditions discussed above continuously and reviews are conducted quarterly with the Bank’s senior management and Board of Directors.

Management also evaluates the allowance for loan losses based on a review of individual loans. This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates including the amounts and timing of future cash flows management expects to receive on impaired loans that may be susceptible to significant change. For all specifically reviewed loans where it is probable that the Bank will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the terms of the loan agreement, impairment is determined by computing a fair value based on either discounted cash flows using the loan’s initial interest rate or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Large groups of smaller balance homogenous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment and are excluded from specific impairment evaluation. For these loans, the allowance for loan losses is calculated in accordance with the allowance for loan losses policy described above.

At December 31, 2007, the allowance for loan losses was $6.5 million or 0.92% of the total loan portfolio and 82.7% of total non-performing loans. Assessing the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is inherently subjective and requires making material estimates, including the amount and timing of future cash flows expected to be received on impaired loans that may be susceptible to significant change. In management’s opinion, the allowance for loan losses represents all known and inherent loan losses that are both probable and reasonably estimated as of December 31, 2007.

18


The following table sets forth an analysis of the allowance for loan losses.

   
Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
2003
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
4,705
 
$
4,587
 
$
3,956
 
$
6,593
 
$
4,692
 
Charge-offs:
                               
Real Estate Loans
                               
One-to four-family
   
133
   
107
   
192
   
78
   
300
 
Commercial
   
-
   
-
   
605
   
4,637
   
-
 
Other (Land & Multi-family)
   
41
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Real Estate Construction Loans
                               
Construction One-to four- family
   
275
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Construction Commercial
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Acquisition & Development
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Other Loans
                               
Home equity
   
550
   
14
   
160
   
63
   
25
 
Consumer
   
1,819
   
1,094
   
1,249
   
1,642
   
2,259
 
Commercial
   
135
   
-
   
120
   
-
   
664
 
Total charge-offs
   
2,953
   
1,215
   
2,326
   
6,420
   
3,248
 
Recoveries:
                               
Real Estate Loans
                               
One-to four-family
   
5
   
54
   
40
   
7
   
86
 
Commercial
   
893
   
83
   
51
   
-
   
-
 
Other (Land & Multi-family)
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Real Estate Construction Loans
                               
Construction One-to four-family
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Construction Commercial
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Acquisition & Development
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Other Loans
                               
Home equity
   
71
   
18
   
1
   
11
   
2
 
Consumer
   
1,145
   
703
   
732
   
790
   
823
 
Commercial
   
-
   
-
   
12
   
-
   
-
 
Total recoveries
   
2,114
   
858
   
836
   
808
   
911
 
Net charge-offs
   
839
   
357
   
1,490
   
5,612
   
2,337
 
Provision for loan losses
   
2,616
   
475
   
2,121
   
2,975
   
4,238
 
Balance at end of period                                                      
 
$
6,482
 
$
4,705
 
$
4,587
 
$
3,956
 
$
6,593
 
Net charge-offs to average loans during this period (1)
   
0.13
%
 
0.06
%
 
0.27
%
 
1.16
%
 
0.57
%
Net charge-offs to average non-performing loans during this period
   
24.71
%
 
11.36
%
 
43.41
%
 
122.10
%
 
30.88
%
Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans
   
82.69
%
 
154.21
%
 
175.36
%
 
59.42
%
 
87.13
%
Allowance as % of total loans (end of period) (1)
   
0.92
%
 
0.73
%
 
0.78
%
 
0.75
%
 
1.47
%

 
(1)
Total loans are net of deferred fees and costs and purchase premiums or discounts

19


The distribution of the allowance for loan losses on loans at the dates indicated is summarized as follows:
 
   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
Amount of Loan
Loss Allowance
 
Loan Amounts
by Category
 
Percent of Loans
in Each Category
to Total Loans
 
Amount of Loan
Loss Allowance
 
Loan Amounts
by Category
 
Percent of Loans
in Each Category
to Total Loans
 
Amount of Loan
Loss Allowance
 
Loan Amounts
by Category
 
Percent of Loans
in Each Category
to Total Loans
 
                                       
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Real Estate Loans
                                     
One-to four-family
   
$
1,609
   
$
377,956
     
53.51
%  
$
771
   
$
334,000
     
52.14
%  
$
672
   
$
324,682
     
55.88
%
Commercial
   
583
   
74,748
   
10.58
%
 
660
   
60,912
   
9.51
%
 
1,041
   
59,074
   
10.16
%
Other (land & multi-family)
   
883
   
40,698
   
5.76
%
 
212
   
34,446
   
5.38
%
 
117
   
20,302
   
3.49
%
                                                         
Real Estate Constrcution
                                                       
Construction One-to four family
   
399
   
13,448
   
1.90
%
 
323
   
32,467
   
5.07
%
 
185
   
24,242
   
4.17
%
Construction Commercial
   
571
   
11,129
   
1.58
%
 
63
   
2,862
   
0.45
%
 
26
   
2,577
   
0.44
%
Acquistion & Development
   
-
   
5,329
   
0.75
%
 
-
   
2,103
   
0.33
%
 
-
   
-
   
-
 
                                                         
Other Loans
                                                       
Home Equity
   
1,295
   
98,410
   
13.93
%
 
745
   
91,062
   
14.22
%
 
497
   
79,016
   
13.60
%
Consumer
   
691
   
64,673
   
9.16
%
 
1,327
   
63,630
   
9.93
%
 
1,581
   
62,846
   
10.81
%
Commercial
   
451
   
20,009
   
2.83
%
 
604
   
19,044
   
2.97
%
 
468
   
8,430
   
1.45
%
Total
 
$
6,482
 
$
706,400
   
100.01
%
$
4,705
 
$
640,526
   
100.00
%
$
4,587
 
$
581,169
   
100.00
%

   
2004
 
2003
 
   
Amount of Loan
Loss Allowance
 
Loan Amounts
by Category
 
Percent of Loans
in Each Category
to Total Loans
 
Amount of Loan
Loss Allowance
 
Loan Amounts
by Category
 
Percent of Loans
in Each Category
to Total Loans
 
                           
Real Estate Loans
                         
One-to four-family real estate
   
$
494
   
$
303,544
     
58.44
%  
$
281
   
$
236,959
     
53.73
%
Commercial real estate
   
1,404
   
57,178
   
11.01
%
 
3,622
   
56,228
   
12.75
%
Other (land & multi-family)
   
32
   
20,120
   
3.87
%
 
28
   
13,568
   
3.08
%
                                       
Real Estate Constrcution
                                     
Construction-one-to four family
   
71
   
14,275
   
2.75
%
 
-
   
11,913
   
2.70
%
Construction -commercial
   
179
   
2,577
   
0.50
%
 
1,049
   
18,663
   
4.23
%
Acquistion & Development
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
                                       
Other Loans
                                     
Home equity
   
332
   
60,077
   
11.57
%
 
45
   
39,217
   
8.89
%
Consumer
   
1,227
   
57,893
   
11.15
%
 
1,328
   
60,925
   
13.81
%
Commercial
   
217
   
3,711
   
0.71
%
 
240
   
3,553
   
0.81
%
Total
 
$
3,956
 
$
519,375
   
100.00
%
$
6,593
 
$
441,026
   
100.00
%
 
20

 
Investment Activities

General. The Bank is required by federal regulations to maintain an amount of liquid assets, such as cash and short-term securities, for the purposes of meeting operational needs. The Bank is also permitted to make certain other securities investments. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Commitments.” Cash flow projections are regularly reviewed and updated to assure that adequate liquidity is provided.

The Bank is authorized to invest in various types of liquid assets, including U.S. Treasury obligations, securities of various federal agencies and government sponsored enterprises, certain certificates of deposit of insured banks and savings institutions, certain bankers’ acceptances, repurchase agreements and federal funds. Subject to various restrictions, federal savings associations may also invest their assets in investment grade commercial paper and corporate debt securities and mutual funds whose assets conform to the investments that a federally chartered savings association is otherwise authorized to make directly. See “How We Are Regulated - Atlantic Coast Bank” for a discussion of additional restrictions on the Bank’s investment activities.

The board of directors has adopted an investment policy which governs the nature and extent of investment activities, and the responsibilities of management and the board. Investment activities are directed by the Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and the Treasurer in coordination with the Company’s Asset/Liability Committee. Various factors are considered when making decisions, including the marketability, maturity and tax consequences of the proposed investment. The maturity structure of investments will be affected by various market conditions, including the current and anticipated short and long term interest rates, the level of interest rates, the trend of new deposit inflows, and the anticipated demand for funds via deposit withdrawals and loan originations and purchases.

The current structure of the investment portfolio provides liquidity when loan demand is high, assists in maintaining earnings when loan demand is low and maximizes earnings while satisfactorily managing risk, including credit risk, reinvestment risk, liquidity risk and interest rate risk. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Asset and Liability Management and Market Risk.”

Investment Securities. The Bank invests in investment securities, for example United States government sponsored enterprises and state and municipal obligations, as part of its asset liability management strategy. All such securities are classified as available for sale.

SFAS No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities (“SFAS 115”), requires that investments be categorized as “held to maturity,” “trading securities” or “available for sale,” based on management’s intent as to the ultimate disposition of each security. SFAS 115 allows debt securities to be classified as “held to maturity” and reported in financial statements at amortized cost only if the reporting entity has the positive intent and ability to hold those securities to maturity.

21


The following table sets forth the composition of the securities portfolio and other earning assets at the dates indicated.

   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
Carrying
Value
 
% of Total
 
Carrying
Value
 
% of Total
 
Carrying
Value
 
% of Total
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Securities available for sale:
                         
U.S. government and agency
 
$
11,510
   
8.58
%  
$
16,280
   
16.41
%  
$
32,079
   
44.58
%
State and municipal
   
8,684
   
6.47
%
 
1,729
   
1.74
%
 
5,361
   
7.45
%
Mortgage backed
   
114,022
   
84.95
%
 
81,222
   
81.85
%
 
34,525
   
47.97
%
Total
 
$
134,216
   
100.00
%
$
99,231
   
100.00
%
$
71,965
   
100.00
%
                                       
Other earning assets:
                                     
Interest-earning deposits with banks
 
$
24,584
   
63.27
%
$
30,486
   
76.92
%
$
15,918
   
64.21
%
FHLB stock
   
9,293
   
23.92
%
 
7,948
   
20.05
%
 
7,074
   
28.53
%
Other investments
   
4,977
   
12.81
%
 
1,200
   
3.03
%
 
1,800
   
7.26
%
Total
 
$
38,854
   
100.00
%
$
39,634
   
100.00
%
$
24,792
   
100.00
%
 
22

 
The composition and maturities of the debt securities portfolio, as of December 31, 2007, are as follows:

           
Greater
Than
 
Greater
     
   
Less Than
1 Year
 
1 to 5
Years
 
5 to 10
Years
 
Than
10 Years
 
Total Securities
 
   
Amortized
Cost
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
                           
US government and agency
 
$
-
 
$
5,218
 
$
972
 
$
5,277
 
$
11,467
 
$
11,510
 
State and Municipal
   
-
   
-
   
433
   
8,412
   
8,845
   
8,684
 
Mortgage-backed
   
-
   
1,586
   
12,122
   
100,040
   
113,748
   
114,022
 
Total investment securities
 
$
-
 
$
6,804
 
$
13,527
 
$
113,729
 
$
134,060
 
$
134,216
 
                                       
Weighted average yield
   
-
%
 
4.56
%
 
5.32
%
 
5.45
%
 
5.42
%
 
5.42
%

(1)
The above presentation does not include the carrying values, yields and maturities of mutual funds as these investments do not have contractual maturities.

Sources of Funds

General. The Bank’s sources of funds are deposits, payment of principal and interest on loans, interest earned on or maturation of investment securities, borrowings, and funds provided from operations.

Deposits. The Bank offers a variety of deposit accounts to consumers with a wide range of interest rates and terms. Deposits consist of time deposit accounts, savings, money market and demand deposit accounts. Historically, the Bank has paid attractive rates on deposit accounts. The Bank relies primarily on competitive pricing policies, marketing and customer service to attract and retain these deposits. Additionally, the Bank will purchase time deposit accounts from brokers at costs and terms which are comparable to time deposits originated in the branch offices.

The variety of deposit accounts offered has allowed the Bank to be competitive in obtaining funds and to respond with flexibility to changes in consumer demand. As customers have become more interest rate conscious, the Bank has become more susceptible to short-term fluctuations in deposit flows. Pricing of deposits are managed to be consistent with overall asset/liability management, liquidity and growth objectives. Management consider numerous factors including: (1) the need for funds based on loan demand, current maturities of deposits and other cash flow needs; (2) rates offered by market area competitors for similar deposit products; (3) current cost of funds and yields on assets; and (4) the alternative cost of funds on a wholesale basis, in particular the cost of advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”). Interest rates are reviewed by senior management weekly. Based on historical experience, management believes that the Bank’s deposits are a relatively stable source of funds. Despite this stability, the Bank’s ability to attract and maintain these deposits and the rates paid on them has been and will continue to be significantly affected by market conditions.

23


The following table sets forth the distribution of total deposit accounts, by account type, at the dates indicated.

   
At December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
           
Weighted
         
Weighted
         
Weighted
 
           
average
         
average
         
average
 
   
Balance
 
Percent
 
rate
 
Balance
 
Percent
 
rate
 
Balance
 
Percent
 
rate
 
                                       
Deposit type:
                                     
Non interest bearing demand
 
$
35,284
   
6.05
%  
 
-
 
$
38,301
   
6.68
%
 
-
 
$
38,454
   
7.45
%
 
-
 
Savings
   
35,633
   
6.11
%
 
0.37
%  
 
41,915
   
7.31
%  
 
0.42
%  
 
53,725
   
10.41
%  
 
0.41
%
Interest bearing demand
   
45,893
   
7.88
%
 
2.59
%
 
52,895
   
9.23
%
 
3.00
%
 
79,739
   
15.44
%
 
2.44
%
Money market demand
   
149,266
   
25.61
%
 
4.06
%
 
116,314
   
20.31
%
 
4.69
%
 
46,535
   
9.01
%
 
3.09
%
                                                         
Total transaction Accounts
   
266,076
   
45.66
%
 
2.77
%
 
249,425
   
43.53
%
 
2.89
%
 
218,453
   
42.31
%
 
1.65
%
                                                         
Certificates of deposit
   
316,654
   
54.34
%
 
4.98
%
 
323,627
   
56.47
%
 
4.83
%
 
297,868
   
57.69
%
 
3.81
%
                                                         
Total deposits
 
$
582,730
   
100.00
%
 
3.97
%
$
573,052
   
100.00
%
 
3.99
%
$
516,321
   
100.00
%
 
2.90
%
 
24

 
As of December 31, 2007, the aggregate amount of outstanding certificates of deposit in amounts greater than or equal to $100,000 was approximately $125.7 million. The following table sets forth the maturity of those certificates as of December 31, 2007.
 
Maturity Period
 
At
December 31,
2007
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
       
Three months or less
 
$
16,232
 
Over three months through six months
   
24,982
 
Over six months through one year
   
56,308
 
Over one year to three years
   
25,710
 
Over three years
   
2,507
 
         
Total
 
$
125,739
 

Borrowings. Although deposits are the primary source of funds, the Bank may utilize borrowings when it is a less costly source of funds, and can be invested at a positive interest rate spread, when additional capacity is required to purchase loans or to fund loan demand or when they meet asset/liability management goals. Borrowings have historically consisted of advances from the FHLB of Atlanta. See Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Advances from the FHLB of Atlanta may be obtained upon the security of mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities. These advances may be made pursuant to several different credit programs, each of which has its own interest rate, range of maturities and call features. At December 31, 2007, the Company had $173.0 million in FHLB advances outstanding.

The following table sets forth information as to FHLB advances for the periods indicated.
 
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
Average balance outstanding
 
$
148,184
 
$
128,260
 
$
119,462
 
                     
Maximum month-end balance
 
$
173,000
 
$
144,000
 
$
129,000
 
                     
Balance at end of period
 
$
173,000
 
$
144,000
 
$
129,000
 
                   
 
Weighted average interest rate during the period
   
4.49
%
 
4.42
%
 
4.16
%
                     
Weighted average interest rate at end of period
   
4.23
%
 
4.45
%
 
4.18
%
 
Subsidiary and Other Activities

At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation did not have any active subsidiaries other than Atlantic Coast Bank. During 2005, Atlantic Coast Bank formed Atlantic Coast Holdings (“Holdings”) as a wholly owned subsidiary for the purpose of managing and investing in certain securities, as well as owning all of the common stock and 85% of the preferred stock of Coastal Properties, Inc. a Real Estate Investment Trust (“REIT”). The REIT was formed for the purpose of holding Georgia and Florida first lien residential mortgages originated by Atlantic Coast Bank.

25


Employees

At December 31, 2007, the Bank had a total of 183 employees, including 12 part-time employees. The Company’s employees are not represented by any collective bargaining group.

How We Are Regulated

Set forth below is a brief description of certain laws and regulations, which are applicable to Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation and Atlantic Coast Bank. The description of these laws and regulations, as well as descriptions of laws and regulations contained elsewhere herein, does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the applicable laws and regulations. Legislation is introduced from time to time in the United States Congress that may affect the operations of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation and Atlantic Coast Bank. In addition, the regulations governing Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation and Atlantic Coast Bank may be amended from time to time by the Office of Thrift Supervision (“OTS”). Any such legislation or regulatory changes in the future could adversely affect Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation or Atlantic Coast Bank. No assurance can be given as to whether or in what form any such changes may occur.

General. Atlantic Coast Bank, as a federally chartered savings institution, is subject to federal regulation and oversight by the OTS extending to all aspects of its operations. The Bank is also subject to regulation by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”), which insures the deposits of Atlantic Coast Bank to the maximum extent permitted by law, and requirements established by the Federal Reserve Board. Federally chartered savings institutions are required to file periodic reports with the OTS and are subject to periodic examinations by the OTS and the FDIC. The investment and lending authority of savings institutions are prescribed by federal laws and regulations, and such institutions are prohibited from engaging in any activities not permitted by such laws and regulations. Such regulation and supervision primarily is intended for the protection of depositors and not for the purpose of protecting stockholders. The OTS regularly examines the Bank and prepares reports for the consideration of Atlantic Coast Bank’s board of directors on any deficiencies that it may find in the Bank’s operations. The Bank’s relationship with its depositors and borrowers also is regulated to a great extent by both federal and state laws, especially in such matters as the ownership of deposit accounts and the form and content of loan documents. Any change in such regulations, whether by the FDIC, the OTS, or the Congress, could have a material adverse impact on Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation and Atlantic Coast Bank and their operations.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation

General. Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation is a federal mutual holding company subsidiary within the meaning of Section 10(o) of the Home Owners’ Loan Act. It is required to file reports with the OTS and is subject to regulation and examination by the OTS. In addition, the OTS has enforcement authority over Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation and any non-savings institution subsidiaries. This permits the OTS to restrict or prohibit activities that it determines to be a serious risk to Atlantic Coast Bank. This regulation is intended primarily for the protection of the depositors and not for the benefit of stockholders of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation.
 
26

 
Activities Restrictions. Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation and its non-savings institution subsidiaries are subject to statutory and regulatory restrictions on their business activities specified by federal regulations, which include performing services and holding properties used by a savings institution subsidiary, activities authorized for savings and loan holding companies as of March 5, 1987, and non-banking activities permissible for bank holding companies pursuant to the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 or authorized for financial holding companies pursuant to the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act.

If Atlantic Coast Bank fails the qualified thrift lender test, Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation must, within one year of that failure, register as, and will become subject to, the restrictions applicable to bank holding companies. See “- Qualified Thrift Lender Test.”

Mergers and Acquisitions. Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation must obtain approval from the OTS before acquiring more than 5% of the voting stock of another savings institution or savings and loan holding company or acquiring such an institution or holding company by merger, consolidation or purchase of its assets. In evaluating an application for Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation to acquire control of a savings institution, the OTS would consider the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation and the target institution, the effect of the acquisition on the risk to the insurance funds, the convenience and the needs of the community and competitive factors.

Waivers of Dividends by Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation. OTS regulations require Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC to notify the OTS of any proposed waiver of its receipt of dividends from Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation. The OTS reviews dividend waiver notices on a case-by-case basis, and, in general, does not object to any such waiver if: (i) the mutual holding company’s board of directors determines that such waiver is consistent with such directors’ fiduciary duties to the mutual holding company’s members; (ii) and the waiver would not be detrimental to the safe and sound operation of the institution.

In 2007, Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC waived receipt of quarterly dividends in the total amount of $5.0 million. It is anticipated that Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC will waive dividends, from time to time, paid by Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation, if any. Under OTS regulations, public stockholders would not be diluted because of any dividends waived by Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC (and waived dividends would not be considered in determining an appropriate exchange ratio) in the event Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC converts to stock form.
 
Conversion of Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC to Stock Form. The OTS regulations permit Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC to convert from the mutual form of organization to the capital stock form of organization (a “Second Step Conversion”). There can be no assurance when, if ever, a second Step Conversion will occur. In a Second Step Conversion a new holding company would be formed as the successor to Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation (the “New Holding Company”), Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC’s corporate existence would end, and certain depositors of Atlantic Coast Bank would receive the right to subscribe for additional shares of the New Holding Company. In a Conversion Transaction, each share of common stock held by stockholders other than Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC (“Minority Stockholders”) would be automatically converted into a number of shares of common stock in the New Holding Company determined pursuant to an exchange ratio that ensures that the Minority Stockholders own the same percentage of common stock in the New Holding Company as they owned in Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation immediately prior to the Second Step Conversation. The total number of shares held by Minority Stockholders after a Second Step Conversion also would be increased by any purchases by Minority Stockholders in the stock offering conducted as part of the Second Step Conversion.
 
27

 
A Second-Step Conversion requires the approval of the OTS as well as a majority of the votes eligible to be cast by the members of Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC and a majority of the votes eligible to be cast by the stockholders of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation other than Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC.

Atlantic Coast Bank

The OTS has extensive authority over the operations of savings institutions. As part of this authority, Atlantic Coast Bank is required to file periodic reports with the OTS and is subject to periodic examinations by the OTS and the FDIC. When these examinations are conducted by the OTS and the FDIC, the examiners may require the Bank to provide for higher general or specific loan loss reserves. All savings institutions are subject to a semi-annual assessment, based upon the savings institution’s total assets, to fund the operations of the OTS.

The OTS also has extensive enforcement authority over all savings institutions and their holding companies, including Atlantic Coast Bank and Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation. This enforcement authority includes, among other things, the ability to assess civil money penalties, to issue cease-and-desist or removal orders and to initiate injunctive actions. In general, these enforcement actions may be initiated for violations of laws and regulations and unsafe or unsound practices. Other actions or inactions may provide the basis for enforcement action, including misleading or untimely reports filed with the OTS. Except under certain circumstances, public disclosure of final enforcement actions by the OTS is required.

In addition, the investment, lending and branching authority of Atlantic Coast Bank is prescribed by federal laws and it is prohibited from engaging in any activities not permitted by such laws. For instance, no savings institution may invest in non-investment grade corporate debt securities. In addition, the permissible level of investment by federal institutions in loans secured by non-residential real property may not exceed 400% of total capital, except with approval of the OTS. Federal savings institutions are also generally authorized to branch nationwide. Atlantic Coast Bank is in compliance with the noted restrictions.

Atlantic Coast Bank’s general permissible lending limit for loans-to-one-borrower is equal to the greater of $500,000 or 15% of unimpaired capital and surplus (except for loans fully secured by certain readily marketable collateral, in which case this limit is increased to 25% of unimpaired capital and surplus). At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank’s lending limit under this restriction was $11.3 million. Atlantic Coast Bank is in compliance with the loans-to-one-borrower limitation.

The OTS, as well as the other federal banking agencies, has adopted guidelines establishing safety and soundness standards on such matters as loan underwriting and documentation, asset quality, earnings standards, internal controls and audit systems, interest rate risk exposure and compensation and other employee benefits. Any institution, which fails to comply with these standards, must submit a compliance plan.

Insurance of Accounts and Regulation by the FDIC

Insurance of Deposit Accounts. Deposit accounts at Atlantic Coast Bank are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation up to a maximum of $100,000 per separately insured depositor and up to a maximum amount of $250,000 for self-directed retirement accounts. Atlantic Coast Bank deposits, therefore, are subject to Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation deposit insurance assessments. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has adopted a risk-based system for determining deposit insurance assessments.
 
28

 
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation regulations assess insurance premiums based on an institution’s risk. Under this assessment system, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation evaluates the risk of each financial institution based on its supervisory rating, financial ratios, and long-term debt issuer rating. The rates for nearly all of the financial institutions industry vary between five and seven cents for every $100 of domestic deposits. Federal law requires the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to establish a deposit reserve ratio for the deposit insurance fund of between 1.15% and 1.50% of estimated deposits. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has designated the reserve ratio for the deposit insurance fund through the first quarter of 2008 at 1.25% of estimated insured deposits.
 
Effective March 31, 2006, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation merged the Bank Insurance Fund and the Savings Association Insurance Fund into a single fund called the Deposit Insurance Fund. In addition to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation assessments, the Financing Corporation (“FICO”) is authorized to impose and collect, with the approval of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, assessments for anticipated payments, issuance costs and custodial fees on bonds issued by the FICO in the 1980s to recapitalize the Federal Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation. The bonds issued by the FICO are due to mature in 2017 through 2019. For the quarter ended December 31, 2007, the annualized FICO assessment was equal to 1.14 basis points for each $100 in domestic deposits maintained at an institution.

Regulatory Capital Requirements

Federally insured savings institutions, such as Atlantic Coast Bank, are required to maintain a minimum level of regulatory capital. The OTS has established capital standards, including a tangible capital requirement, a leverage ratio or core capital requirement and a risk-based capital requirement applicable to such savings institutions. These capital requirements must be generally as stringent as the comparable capital requirements for national banks. The OTS is also authorized to impose capital requirements in excess of these standards on individual institutions on a case-by-case basis. Atlantic Coast Bank meets the requirements to be considered adequately capitalized, as well as those required to be well capitalized. The capital regulations require tangible capital of at least 1.5% of adjusted total assets, as defined by regulation. Tangible capital generally includes common stockholders’ equity and retained income, and certain non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock and related income. In addition, all intangible assets, other than a limited amount of purchased mortgage servicing rights, must be deducted from tangible capital for calculating compliance with the requirement. At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank had $2.8 million of intangible assets consisting of goodwill of $2.6 million and net core deposit intangible of $183,000.

At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank had tangible capital of $70.4 million, or 7.7% of adjusted total assets, which is approximately $56.7 million above the minimum requirement of 1.5% of adjusted total assets in effect on that date.

The capital standards also require core capital equal to at least 4.0% of adjusted total assets unless its supervisory condition is such to allow it to maintain a 3.0% ratio. Core capital generally consists of tangible capital plus certain intangible assets, including a limited amount of purchased credit card relationships. At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank had $2.8 million of intangibles, which were subject to these tests. At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank had core capital equal to $70.4 million, or 7.7% of adjusted total assets, which is $33.6 million above the minimum requirement of 4.0% in effect on that date.
 
29

 
The OTS also requires savings institutions to have core capital equal to 4% of risk-weighted assets (“Tier 1”). At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank had Tier 1 risk-based capital of $75.5 or 12.1% of risk-weighted assets, which is approximately $50.4 million above the minimum on such date. The OTS also requires savings institutions to have total capital of at least 8.0% of risk-weighted assets. Total capital consists of core capital as defined above and supplementary capital. Supplementary capital consists of certain permanent and maturing capital instruments that do not qualify as core capital and general valuation loan and lease loss allowances up to a maximum of 1.25% of risk-weighted assets. Supplementary capital may be used to satisfy the risk-based requirement only to the extent of core capital. The OTS is also authorized to require a savings institution to maintain an additional amount of total capital to account for concentration of credit risk and the risk of non-traditional activities.

In determining the amount of risk-weighted assets, all assets, including certain off-balance sheet items, will be multiplied by a risk weight, ranging from 0% to 100%, based on the risk inherent in the type of asset. For example, the OTS has assigned a risk weight of 50% for prudently underwritten permanent one- to four-family first lien mortgage loans not more than 90 days delinquent and having a loan-to-value ratio of not more than 90% at origination unless insured to such ratio by an insurer approved by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

On December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank had total risk-based capital of $75.5 million and risk-weighted assets of $626.4 million; or total capital of 12.1% of risk-weighted assets. This amount was $25.4 million above the 8.0% requirement in effect on that date.

The OTS and the FDIC are authorized and, under certain circumstances, required to take certain actions against savings institutions that fail to meet their capital requirements. The OTS is generally required to take action to restrict the activities of an “undercapitalized institution,” which is an institution with less than either a 4.0% core capital ratio, a 4.0% Tier 1 risked-based capital ratio or an 8.0% risk-based capital ratio. Any such institution must submit a capital restoration plan and until the plan is approved by the OTS, may not increase its assets, acquire another institution, establish a branch or engage in any new activities, and generally may not make capital distributions. The OTS is authorized to impose the additional restrictions that are applicable to significantly undercapitalized institutions.

As a condition to the approval of the capital restoration plan, any company controlling an undercapitalized institution must agree that it will enter into a limited capital maintenance guarantee with respect to the institution’s achievement of its capital requirements.

Any savings institution that fails to comply with its capital plan or has Tier 1 risk-based or core capital ratios of less than 3.0% or a risk-based capital ratio of less than 6.0% and is considered “significantly undercapitalized” will be made subject to one or more additional specified actions and operating restrictions which may cover all aspects of its operations and may include a forced merger or acquisition of the institution. An institution that becomes “critically undercapitalized” because it has a tangible capital ratio of 2.0% or less is subject to further mandatory restrictions on its activities in addition to those applicable to significantly undercapitalized institutions. In addition, the OTS must appoint a receiver, or conservator with the concurrence of the FDIC, for a savings institution, with certain limited exceptions, within 90 days after it becomes critically undercapitalized. Any undercapitalized institution is also subject to the general enforcement authority of the OTS and the FDIC, including the appointment of a conservator or a receiver.
 
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The OTS is also generally authorized to reclassify an institution into a lower capital category and impose the restrictions applicable to such category if the institution is engaged in unsafe or unsound practices or is in an unsafe or unsound condition.

The imposition by the OTS or the FDIC of any of these measures on Atlantic Coast Bank may have a substantial adverse effect on its operations and profitability.
 
Limitations on Dividends and Other Capital Distributions

OTS regulations impose various restrictions on savings institutions with respect to their ability to make distributions of capital, which include dividends, stock redemptions or repurchases, cash-out mergers and other transactions charged to the capital account.

Generally, savings institutions, such as Atlantic Coast Bank, that before and after the proposed distribution are well-capitalized, may make capital distributions during any calendar year equal to 100% of reported net income for the year-to-date plus retained net income for the two preceding years. However, an institution deemed to be in need of more than normal supervision by the OTS may have its dividend authority restricted by the OTS. Atlantic Coast Bank may pay dividends to Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation in accordance with this general authority.

Savings institutions proposing to make any capital distribution need not submit written notice to the OTS prior to such distribution unless they are a subsidiary of a holding company or would not remain well capitalized following the distribution. Savings institutions that do not, or would not meet their current minimum capital requirements following a proposed capital distribution or propose to exceed these net income limitations, must obtain OTS approval prior to making such distribution. The OTS may object to the distribution during that 30-day period based on safety and soundness concerns. See “- Regulatory Capital Requirements.”

Liquidity

All savings institutions, including Atlantic Coast Bank, are required to maintain sufficient liquidity to ensure a safe and sound operation.

Qualified Thrift Lender Test

All savings institutions, including Atlantic Coast Bank, are required to meet a qualified thrift lender test to avoid certain restrictions on their operations. This test requires a savings institution to have at least 65% of its portfolio assets, as defined by regulation, in qualified thrift investments on a monthly average for nine out of every 12 months on a rolling basis. As an alternative, the savings institution may maintain 60% of its assets in those assets specified in Section 7701(a)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code. Under either test, such assets primarily consist of residential housing related loans and investments. At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank was in compliance with the test.
 
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Any savings institution that fails to meet the qualified thrift lender test must convert to a national bank charter or become subject to the restrictions applicable to national banks, unless it re-qualifies as a qualified thrift lender within one year of failure and thereafter remains a qualified thrift lender. If such an institution has not yet re-qualified or converted to a national bank, its new investments and activities are limited to those permissible for both a savings institution and a national bank, and it is limited to national bank branching rights in its home state. In addition, the institution is immediately ineligible to receive any new FHLB borrowings and is subject to national bank limits for payment of dividends. If such an institution has not re-qualified or converted to a national bank within three years after the failure, it must divest of all investments and cease all activities not permissible for a national bank. If any institution that fails the qualified thrift lender test is controlled by a holding company, then within one year after the failure, the holding company must register as a bank holding company and become subject to all restrictions on bank holding companies.
 
Community Reinvestment Act

Under the Community Reinvestment Act, every FDIC-insured institution has a continuing and affirmative obligation consistent with safe and sound banking practices to help meet the credit needs of its entire community, including low and moderate income neighborhoods. The Community Reinvestment Act does not establish specific lending requirements or programs for financial institutions nor does it limit an institution’s discretion to develop the types of products and services that it believes are best suited to its particular community, consistent with the Community Reinvestment Act. The Community Reinvestment Act requires the OTS, in connection with the examination of Atlantic Coast Bank, to assess the institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its community and to take such record into account in its evaluation of certain applications, such as a merger or the establishment of a branch, by Atlantic Coast Bank. An unsatisfactory rating may be used as the basis for the denial of an application by the OTS. Due to the heightened attention being given to the Community Reinvestment Act in the past few years, Atlantic Coast Bank may be required to devote additional funds for investment and lending in its local community. Atlantic Coast Bank was examined for Community Reinvestment Act compliance and received a rating of satisfactory in its latest examination.

Transactions with Affiliates

Generally, transactions between a savings institution or its subsidiaries and its affiliates are required to be on terms as favorable to the institution as transactions with non-affiliates. In addition, certain of these transactions, such as loans to an affiliate, are restricted to a percentage of the institution’s capital. Affiliates of Atlantic Coast Bank include Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation and any company, which is under common control with Atlantic Coast Bank. In addition, a savings institution may not lend to any affiliate engaged in activities not permissible for a bank holding company or acquire the securities of most affiliates. The OTS has the discretion to treat subsidiaries of savings institutions as affiliates on a case-by-case basis.

In addition, the OTS regulations prohibit a savings institution from lending to any of its affiliates that is engaged in activities that are not permissible for bank holding companies and from purchasing the securities of any affiliate, other than a subsidiary.

Certain transactions with directors, officers or controlling persons are also subject to conflict of interest regulations enforced by the OTS. These conflict of interest regulations and other statutes also impose restrictions on loans to such persons and their related interests. Among other things, such loans must generally be made on terms substantially the same as for loans to unaffiliated individuals.
 
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Privacy requirements of the GLBA

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999, provided for sweeping financial modernization for commercial banks, savings banks, securities firms, insurance companies, and other financial institutions operating in the United States. Among other provisions, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act places limitations on the sharing of consumer financial information with unaffiliated third parties. Specifically, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 requires all financial institutions offering financial products or services to retail customers to provide such customers with the financial institutions’ privacy statement and provide such customers the opportunity to “opt out” of the sharing of personal information with unaffiliated third parties.

USA PATRIOT Act

The USA PATRIOT Act was signed into law on October 26, 2001. The USA PATRIOT Act gives the federal government new powers to address terrorist threats through enhanced domestic security measures, expanded surveillance powers, increased information sharing and broadened anti-money laundering requirements. The USA PATRIOT Act also requires the federal banking agencies to take into consideration the effectiveness of controls designed to combat money laundering activities in determining whether to approve a merger or other acquisition application of a member institution. Accordingly, if the Company engages in a merger or other acquisition, controls designed to combat money laundering would be considered as part of the application process. Management has established policies, procedures and systems designed to comply with these regulations.

Federal Securities Law

The stock of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation is subject to the information, proxy solicitation, insider trading restrictions and other requirements of the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation stock held by persons who are affiliates of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation may not be resold without registration unless sold in accordance with certain resale restrictions. Affiliates are generally considered to be officers, directors and principal stockholders. If Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation meets specified current public information requirements, each affiliate of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation will be able to sell in the public market, without registration, a limited number of shares in any three-month period.

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 was signed into law by President Bush on July 30, 2002, in response to public concerns regarding corporate accountability in connection with recent accounting scandals. The stated goals of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act are to increase corporate responsibility, to provide for enhanced penalties for accounting and auditing improprieties at publicly traded companies and to protect investors by improving the accuracy and reliability of corporate disclosures pursuant to the securities laws. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act generally applies to all companies that file or are required to file periodic reports with the SEC, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation.
 
33

 
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act mandated additional disclosure requirements and new corporate governance rules, requires the SEC and securities exchanges to adopt extensive additional disclosure, corporate governance and other related rules. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act represents significant federal involvement in matters traditionally left to state regulatory systems, such as the regulation of the accounting profession, and to state corporate law, such as the relationship between a board of directors and management and between a board of directors and its committees.
 
Federal Reserve System

The Federal Reserve Board requires all depository institutions to maintain non-interest bearing reserves at specified levels against their transaction accounts, primarily checking, NOW and Super NOW checking accounts. At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank was in compliance with these reserve requirements. Savings institutions are authorized to borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank “discount window,” but Federal Reserve Board regulations require institutions to exhaust other reasonable alternative sources of funds, including FHLB borrowings, before borrowing from the Federal Reserve Bank.

Federal Home Loan Bank System

Atlantic Coast Bank is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, which is one of 12 regional Federal Home Loan Banks that administers the home financing credit function of savings institutions. Each Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) serves as a reserve or central bank for its members within its assigned region. It is funded primarily from proceeds derived from the sale of consolidated obligations of the FHLB System. It makes loans or advances to members in accordance with policies and procedures, established by the board of directors of the FHLB, which are subject to the oversight of the Federal Housing Finance Board. All advances from the FHLB are required to be fully secured by sufficient collateral as determined by the FHLB. In addition, all long-term advances are required to provide funds for residential home financing.

As a member, Atlantic Coast Bank is required to purchase and maintain stock in the FHLB of Atlanta. At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank had $9.3 million in FHLB stock, which was in compliance with this requirement. In past years, Atlantic Coast Bank has received substantial dividends on its FHLB stock. Atlantic Coast Bank received dividends of $490,000 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007. Over the past two fiscal years such dividends have averaged 5.86% and were 5.98% for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007.

Under federal law, the Federal Home Loan Banks are required to provide funds for the resolution of troubled savings institutions and to contribute to low- and moderately-priced housing programs through direct loans or interest subsidies on advances targeted for community investment and low- and moderate-income housing projects. These contributions have affected adversely the level of FHLB dividends paid and could continue to do so in the future. These contributions could also have an adverse effect on the value of FHLB stock in the future. A reduction in value of Atlantic Coast Bank’s FHLB stock may result in a corresponding reduction in Atlantic Coast Bank’s capital.

Available Information

The Company makes available financial information, news releases and other information on the Company’s Web site at www.AtlanticCoastBank.net. There is a link to obtain all filings made by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission including the Company’s annual reports on Form 10-K, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. The reports or amendments are available free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after the Company files such reports and amendments with, or furnishes them to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. Stockholders of record may also contact Corporate Communications, Inc., 523 Third Avenue South, Nashville, Tennessee, 37210 or call (615)-254-3376 to obtain a copy of these reports without charge.
 
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Item 1A. Risk Factors

The business, and an investment in the common stock, involves risks. Summarized below are the risk factors which management believe are material to the business and could negatively affect operating results, financial condition and the trading value of the common stock. Other risks factors not currently known to management, or risk factors that are currently deemed to be immaterial or unlikely, also could adversely affect the business. In assessing the following risk factors, the reader should also refer to the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Risks Relating to the Business

The geographic concentration in loans secured by one- to four- family residential real estate may increase credit losses, which could increase the level of provision for loan losses.

As of December 31, 2007 approximately 59.6% of the total loan portfolio was secured by first or second liens on one- to four-family residential property, primarily in southeastern Georgia and northeastern Florida. The recent downturn in the local and national economy could adversely affect the Bank’s loan customers’ ability to repay their loans. In the event that the Bank is required to foreclose on a property securing a mortgage loans or pursue other remedies in order to protect the Bank’s investment, there can be no assurance that the Bank will recover funds in an amount equal to any remaining loan balance as a result of prevailing economic conditions, real estate values and other factors associated with the ownership of real property. As a result, the market value of the real estate or other collateral underlying the loans may not, at any given time, be sufficient to satisfy the outstanding principal amount of the loans. Consequently, the Bank would sustain loan losses and potentially incur a higher provision for loan loss expense.

The loan portfolio possesses increased risk due to our growing number of commercial real estate, commercial business and construction loans and consumer loans, which could increase the level of provision for loan losses.

The Bank’s outstanding commercial real estate, commercial business, construction, multi-family, and automobile and other consumer loans accounted for approximately 32.6% of the total loan portfolio as of December 31, 2007. Generally, management considers these types of loans to involve a higher degree of risk compared to first mortgage loans on one- to four-family, owner occupied residential properties. These loans have higher risks than loans secured by residential real estate for the following reasons:
 
 
·
Commercial Real Estate and Commercial Business Loans. Repayment is dependent on income being generated by the rental property or business in amounts sufficient to cover operating expenses and debt service.
 
 
·
Commercial and Multi-Family Construction Loans. Repayment is dependent upon the completion of the project and income being generated by the rental property or business in amounts sufficient to cover operating expenses and debt service.
 
 
·
Single Family Construction Loans. Repayment is dependent upon the successful completion of the project and the ability of the contractor or builder to repay the loan from the sale of the property or obtaining permanent financing.
 
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·
Multi-Family Real Estate Loans. Repayment is dependent on income being generated by the rental property in amounts sufficient to cover operating expenses and debt service.
 
 
·
Consumer Loans. Consumer loans (such as automobile loans) are collateralized, if at all, with assets that may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the loan due to depreciation, damage or loss.
 
Management plans to continue to increase emphasis on construction, commercial and commercial real estate loans. As such, management may determine it necessary to increase the level of provision for loan losses. Increased provisions for loan losses would negatively affect the results of operation. For further information concerning these risks, see Item 1. Business –“Lending Activities” and “- Asset Quality.”

The loan portfolio possesses increased risk due to rapid expansion during a period of rising real estate values, high sales volume activity and historically low interest rate environment.

From December 31, 2001 to December 31, 2007, the balance of the gross loan portfolio has grown from $337.1 million to $706.4 million, an increase of 109.6% with approximately 72% of that growth occurring in the last four years. Much of this growth is in one- to four-family residential properties generally located throughout southeastern Georgia and northeastern Florida. As a result of this rapid expansion during a period of rising real estate values and historically low interest rates, a significant portion of the loan portfolio is unseasoned and potentially under collateralized given the recent decline in real estate values. Sufficient time has not elapsed to ascertain the magnitude of potential losses resulting from this level of growth during a period of intense real estate market activity. Additionally, given the historically low interest rate environment over this same period, the unseasoned adjustable rate loans have not been subject to an interest rate environment that causes them to adjust to the maximum level and may involve repayment risks resulting from potentially increasing payment obligations by the borrower as a result of repricing. At December 31, 2007 there were $374.0 million in adjustable rate loans which made up 52.9% of the loan portfolio.
 
If economic conditions deteriorate in our primary market areas of Jacksonville, Florida0 and Ware County, Georgia, our results of operation and financial condition could be adversely impacted as borrower’s ability to repay loans declines and the value of the collateral securing the loan decreases.
 
The Bank’s financial results may be adversely affected by changes in prevailing economic conditions, including decreases in real estate values, changes in interest rates which may cause a decrease in interest rate spreads, adverse employment conditions, the monetary and fiscal policies of the federal and the Georgia and Florida state governments and other significant external events. The Bank holds approximately 25.0% of the deposits in Ware County, the county in which Waycross, Georgia is located. On the contrary, the Bank has approximately 1.21% of the deposits in the Jacksonville, Florida, metropolitan area. Additionally, the Bank’s market share of loans in Ware County is significantly greater than its share of the loan market in the Jacksonville metropolitan area. As a result of the concentration in Ware County, the Bank may be more susceptible to adverse market conditions in that market. Due to the significant portion of real estate loans in the loan portfolio, decreases in real estate values could adversely affect the value of property used as collateral. Adverse changes in the economy may also have a negative effect on the ability of borrowers to make timely repayments of their loans, which would have an adverse impact on earnings.
 
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If the allowance for loan losses is not sufficient to cover actual losses, income may be negatively affected.

In the event that loan customers do not repay their loans according to their terms and the collateral security for the payments of these loans is insufficient to pay any remaining loan balance, the Bank may experience significant loan losses. Such credit risk is inherent in the lending business, and failure to adequately assess such credit risk could have a material adverse affect on the Bank’s financial condition and results of operations. Management makes various assumptions and judgments about the collectibility of the loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of the borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of many of the loans. In determining the amount of the allowance for loans losses, management reviews the loan portfolio and the Bank’s historical loss and delinquency experience, as well as overall economic conditions. If management’s assumptions are incorrect, the allowance for loan losses may be insufficient to cover probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio, resulting in additions to the allowance. The allowance for loan losses is also periodically reviewed by the OTS, who may disagree with the allowance and require the Bank to increase the amount. Additions to the allowance for loans losses would be made through increased provisions for loan losses and would negatively affect the bank’s results of operations.
 
We depend on our management team to implement our business strategy and execute successful operations and we could be harmed by the loss of their services.

We are dependent upon the services of our senior management team. Our strategy and operations are directed by the senior management team, approximately one-third of whom have joined us since 2004 and each of whom has over 10 years of financial institution experience. Currently, only the president and chief executive officer, who has served in such position since 1983, and the chief administrative officer, have an employment contract. Any loss of the services of the president and chief executive officer or other members of the management team could impact our ability to implement our business strategy, and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and our ability to compete in our markets.

Future changes in interest rates could impact our net income.
 
Net income is the amount by which net interest income and non-interest income exceeds non-interest expenses and the provision for loan losses. Net interest income makes up a majority of our income and is based on the difference between:
 
 
·
the interest income we earn on our interest-earning assets, such as loans and securities; and

 
·
the interest we pay on our interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowings.

A substantial percentage of our interest-earning assets, such as residential mortgage loans, have longer maturities than our interest-bearing liabilities, which consist primarily of certificates of deposit and borrowings. As a result, our net interest income is adversely affected if the average cost of our interest-bearing liabilities increases more rapidly than the average yield on our interest-earning assets.
 
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The Federal Reserve Board lowered the federal funds rate three times during 2007, from 5.25% to 4.25%, with all decreases occurring during the last four months of 2007. The federal funds rate has a direct correlation to general rates of interest, including the Bank’s interest-bearing deposits. As explained in more detail in Item 7A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk,” the Bank’s mix of asset and liabilities are considered to be sensitive to interest rate changes. If interest rates continue to decrease, net interest income could increase. However, in a declining rate environment, the Bank may be susceptible to the payoff or refinance of high rate mortgage loans that could reduce net interest income. On the other hand, if interest rates rise, net interest income could be reduced because interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities, including deposits and borrowings, increases more quickly than interest received on interest-earning assets, including loans and mortgage-backed and related securities. In addition, rising interest rates may negatively affect income because higher rates may reduce the demand for loans and the value of mortgage-related and investment securities. For a further discussion of how changes in interest rates could impact the Bank, see Item 7 in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
 
Our operating expenses are high as a percentage of our net interest income and non-interest income, making it more difficult to maintain profitability.
 
Our non-interest expense, which consists primarily of the costs associated with operating our business, represents a high percentage of the income we generate. The cost of generating our income is measured by our efficiency ratio, which represents non-interest expense divided by the sum of our net interest income and our non-interest income. Our efficiency ratio has been affected by our efforts to expand our branch network and the corresponding infrastructure, as well as by the inverted yield curve, which affects our ability to originate loans with interest rates sufficiently in excess of our deposit and borrowing costs. If we are able to lower our efficiency ratio, our ability to generate income from our operations will be more effective. For the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, our efficiency ratio was 86.8% and 73.1%, respectively. Generally, this means that we spent $0.87 and $0.73 during 2007 and 2006 to generate $1.00 of income. This reflects a trend where our efficiency ratio has deteriorated from 63.5% to 86.8% for the six-year period ended December 31, 2007.

Strong competition in our primary market area may reduce our ability to obtain loans and also decrease our yield on loans.

We are located in a competitive market that affects our ability to obtain loans through origination or purchase as well as originating them at rates that provide an attractive yield. Competition for loans comes principally from mortgage bankers, commercial banks, other thrift institutions, nationally based homebuilders and credit unions. Internet based lenders have also become a greater competitive factor in recent years. Such competition for the origination and purchase of loans may limit future growth and earnings prospects.
 
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Strong Competition In Our Primary Market Area May Reduce Our Ability To Attract And Retain Deposits And Also Increase Our Cost of Funds.

We operate in a very competitive market for the attraction of deposits, the primary source of our funding. Historically, our most direct competition for deposits has come from credit unions, community banks, large commercial banks and thrift institutions within our primary market areas. In recent years competition has also come from institutions that largely deliver their services over the internet. Such competitors have the competitive advantage of lower infrastructure costs. Particularly during times of extremely low or extremely high interest rates, we have faced significant competition for investors’ funds from short-term money market securities and other corporate and government securities. During periods of regularly increasing interest rates, competition for interest-bearing deposits increases as customers, particularly time deposit customers, tend to move their accounts between competing businesses to obtain the highest rates in the market. As a result, Atlantic Coast Bank incurs a higher cost of funds in an effort to attract and retain customer deposits. We strive to grow our lower cost deposits, such as non-interest-bearing checking accounts, in order to reduce our cost of funds.

Future economic growth in our Florida market area is likely to be more moderate. 

Since 2000, the Jacksonville metropolitan area has been one of the fastest growing economies in the United States. Consequently, the area has experienced substantial growth in population, new business formation and public works spending. Due to the moderation of economic growth and migration into our market area and the downturn in the real estate market, management believes that growth in our market area will be moderate in the near term. Growth in the first mortgage loan portfolio has been negatively impacted by a slowing in residential real estate sales activity in our markets. A decrease in existing and new home sales decreases lending opportunities and may negatively affect our income. In addition, the Jacksonville metropolitan area has the 27th highest foreclosure rate of one- to four-family residences in the United States. Some of our commercial real estate loans secured by properties in the early stages of development could also be adversely affected by a downturn in Florida’s real estate market or in general economic conditions. Further declines in the real estate market could have a significant effect on the Florida economy, thus negatively affecting our customer funds on deposit, loan demand and our branch expansion efforts.

The Bank operates in a highly regulated environment and may be adversely affected by changes in laws and regulations.

Atlantic Coast Bank is subject to extensive regulation, supervision and examination by the Office of Thrift Supervision, its chartering authority, and by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, which insures Atlantic Coast Bank’s deposits. As a savings and loan holding company, the Company is subject to regulation and supervision by the Office of Thrift Supervision. Such regulation and supervision govern the activities in which financial institutions and their holding companies may engage and are intended primarily for the protection of the federal deposit insurance fund and depositors. These regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the imposition of restrictions on the operations of financial institutions, the classification of assets by financial institutions and the adequacy of financial institutions’ allowance for loan losses. Any change in such regulation and oversight, whether in the form of regulatory policy, regulations, or legislation, could have a material impact on Atlantic Coast Bank and Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation.

The Bank’s operations are also subject to extensive regulation by other federal, state and local governmental authorities, and are subject to various laws and judicial and administrative decisions that impose requirements and restrictions on operations. These laws, rules and regulations are frequently changed by legislative and regulatory authorities. There can be no assurance that changes to existing laws, rules and regulations, or any other new laws, rules or regulations, will not be adopted in the future, which could make compliance more difficult or expensive or otherwise adversely affect the business, financial condition or prospects.
 
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Risks Relating to an Investment in Common Stock

Stock price may be volatile due to limited trading volume.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Market. However, the average daily trading volume in the Stock Company’s common stock is relatively small, less than approximately 7,200 shares per day in 2007, and sometimes significantly less than that. As a result, trades involving a relatively small number of shares may have a significant effect on the market price of the common stock, and it may be difficult for investors to acquire or dispose of large blocks of stock without significantly affecting the market price.

Public stockholders own a minority of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s common stock and will not be able to exercise voting control over most matters put to a vote of stockholders.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s holding company, Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC owned approximately 63.8% of the common stock at December 31, 2007. Directors and executive officers own or control approximately 7.4% of the common stock. The same directors and executive officers that manage Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation, also manage Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC. Public stockholders who are not associated with the MHC or Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation owned approximately 28.8% of the common stock at December 31, 2007. The Board of Directors of Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC will be able to exercise voting control over most matters put to a vote of stockholders because the MHC owns a majority of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s common stock. For example, Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC may exercise its voting control to prevent a sale or merger transaction in which stockholders could receive a premium for their shares or to approve employee benefit plans.

Stock issued pursuant to the exercise of stock options awarded to directors and management will dilute public stockholder ownership.

Directors and management currently hold options to purchase approximately 560,000 shares of common stock, or 4.1% of total common stock outstanding. There are an additional 140,000 shares available for future awards of options under the current stock option plan, or 1.0% of the common stock outstanding. Stock options are paid for by the recipient in an amount equal to the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant. The payments are not made until the option is actually exercised by the recipient. The issuance of common stock pursuant to the exercise of total stock options under the stock option plan will result in the dilution of existing stockholders voting interests by 5.1% unless shares are repurchased to cover such exercise.

Ability to pay dividends is limited.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s ability to pay dividends is limited by regulatory requirements and the need to maintain sufficient consolidated capital to meet the capital needs of the business, including capital needs related to future growth. The primary source of income is the payment of dividends from Atlantic Coast Bank to the Stock Company. Atlantic Coast Bank, in turn, is subject to regulatory requirements potentially limiting its ability to pay such dividends and by the need to maintain sufficient capital for its operations and obligations. Thus, there can be no assurance that the Company will continue to pay dividends to common stockholders, no assurance as to the amount or timing of any such dividends, and no assurance that such dividends, if and when paid, will be maintained, at the same level or at all, in future periods.
 
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Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
 
None.

Item 2. Properties

At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank had thirteen full-service offices and one drive-up facility and a leased office space for the Florida regional center. Atlantic Coast Bank owns all locations except the regional office in Jacksonville, FL. The net book value of the investment in premises, equipment and fixtures, excluding computer equipment, was approximately $16.6 million at December 31, 2007.

The following table provides a list of the Bank’s main and branch offices.

   
Owned or
 
Lease Expiration
 
Net Book Value
 
Location
   
Leased
   
Date
   
December 31, 2007
 
           
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
HOME AND EXECUTIVE OFFICE
   
Owned
   
 
$
1,625
 
AND MAIN BRANCH
                   
505 Haines Avenue
                   
Waycross, GA 31501
                   
                     
FLORIDA REGIONAL CENTER
   
Leased
   
June 2009
   
114
 
10151 Deerwood Park Blvd.
                   
Building 100, Suite 501
                   
Jacksonville, FL 32256
                   
                     
BRANCH OFFICES:
   
Owned
   
   
67
 
Drive-up Facility
                   
400 Haines Avenue
                   
Waycross, GA 31501
                   
                     
2110 Memorial Drive
   
Owned
   
   
594
 
Waycross, GA 31501
                   
                     
1390 South Gaskin Avenue
   
Owned
   
   
451
 
Douglas, GA 31533
                   
                     
213 Hwy 80 West
   
Owned
   
   
283
 
Garden City, GA 31408
                   
                     
10328 Deerwood Park Blvd.
   
Owned
   
   
1,065
 
Jacksonville, FL 32256
                   
                     
8048 Normandy Blvd.
   
Owned
   
   
1,091
 
Jacksonville, FL 32221
                   
                     
1970 Solomon Street
   
Owned
   
   
185
 
Orange Park, FL 32073
                   
                     
463 West Duval Street
   
Owned
   
   
153
 
Lake City, FL 32055
                   
                     
930 University Avenue, North
   
Owned
   
   
1,073
 
Jacksonville, FL 32211
                   
                     
1700 South Third Street
   
Owned
   
   
1,481
 
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32200
                   
                     
1425 Atlantic Blvd.
   
Owned
   
   
4,056
 
Neptune Beach, FL 32233
                   
                     
2766 Race Track Road
   
Owned
   
   
2,409
 
Jacksonville, FL 32259
                   
                     
715 Centre Street
   
Owned
   
   
1,067
 
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
                   
 
41

 
Management believes the Company’s facilities are suitable for their purpose and adequate to support its business. Atlantic Coast Bank continuously reviews its branch locations in order to improve the visibility and accessibility of the Bank’s locations. In October 2006 the new Julington Creek branch opened in the northwest corner of St. Johns County, Florida. In January 2007 Atlantic Coast Bank relocated the Atlantic Blvd branch from a leased location to a new stand alone branch building at 1425 Atlantic Blvd. In January 2008 Atlantic Coast Bank relocated the Orange Park, Florida branch from an owned location to a larger, leased location. Atlantic Coast Bank currently has a second site in St. Johns County, Florida and continues to actively evaluate other sites for future expansion with a focus in the Florida market.

Atlantic Coast Bank uses an in-house data processing system, with support provided by Open Solutions, a third-party vendor to maintain the Company’s database of depositor and borrower customer information. This year Atlantic Coast Bank extended the data processing contact with Open Solutions for an additional five year term taking the contract to March 2012. The net book value of data processing and computer equipment at December 31, 2007, was approximately $403,000.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

From time to time, The Company is involved as plaintiff or defendant in various legal actions arising in the normal course of business. Management does not anticipate incurring any material liability as a result of this litigation. See Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

At the special meeting of stockholders of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation held on November 27, 2008, the following matters were submitted to stockholders with the results noted.

Proposal No. 1

The approval of a plan of conversion and reorganization (the “Plan”) pursuant to which the Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC (the “Mutual Holding Company”) will be merged into Atlantic Coast Bank (the “Bank”), and Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation (the “Company”) will be succeeded by Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation, a new Maryland corporation that has been established for the purpose of completing the conversion. Pursuant to the Plan, shares of common stock representing Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s current 63.8% ownership interest in the Company will be offered for sale in a stock offering. Common stock of the Company currently held by public stockholders will be converted into the right to receive shares of Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation stock pursuant to an exchange ratio specified in the Plan. As a result of the conversion, stockholders of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation (depositors of the Bank) will no longer have voting rights unless they become stockholders of Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation.
 
42

 
   
For
 
Against, Abstain or Not Voted
 
           
Number of Votes
   
12,031,475
   
1,365,843
 
               
Number of Votes Cast
by Person Other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
3,302,975
   
1,365,843
 
               
Percentage of 13,675,825
outstanding shares
   
88.0
%
 
10.0
%
               
Percentage of 4,947,325
shares owned by stockholders
other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
66.8
%  
 
27.6
%

Proposal No. 2

The approval of an adjournment of the special meeting, if necessary, to solicit additional proxies in the event that there are not sufficient votes at the time of the special meeting to approve the plan of conversion.

   
For
 
Against, Abstain or Not Voted
 
           
Number of Votes
   
11,966,261
   
1,431,057
 
               
Number of Votes Cast by
Persons Other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
3,237,761
   
1,431,057
 
               
Percentage of 13,675,825
outstanding shares
   
87.5
%
 
10.5
%
               
Percentage of 4,947,325
shares owned by stockholders
other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
65.4
%  
 
28.9
%

Proposal No. 3(a)

The approval of an increase in the authorized shares of capital stock. The authorized capital stock of Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation consists of 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and 25,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share. The current authorized capital stock of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation consists of 18,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and 2,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share.
 
43


   
For
 
Against, Abstain or Not Voted
 
           
Number of Votes
   
11,619,315
   
1,778,003
 
               
Number of Votes Cast by
Persons Other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
2,890,815
   
1,778,003
 
               
Percentage of 13,675,825
outstanding shares
   
85.0
%
 
13.0
%
               
Percentage of 4,947,325
shares owned by stockholders
other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
58.4
%  
 
35.9
%
 
Proposal No. 3(b)

The approval of a provision in Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation’s articles of incorporation to limit the ability of stockholders to remove directors. The articles of incorporation of Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation provide that any director may be removed by stockholders only for cause upon the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 80% of the shares entitled to vote in the election of directors.

   
For
 
Against, Abstain or Not Voted
 
           
Number of Votes
   
11,115,740
   
2,281,578
 
               
Number of Votes Cast by
Persons Other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
2,387,240
   
2,281,578
 
               
Percentage of 13,675,825
outstanding shares
   
81.3
%
 
16.7
%
               
Percentage of 4,947,325
shares owned by stockholders
other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
48.3
%  
 
46.1
%

Proposal No. 3(c)

The approval of a provision in Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation’s articles of incorporation to limit business combinations with interested stockholders. The articles of incorporation of Atlantic Coast financial Corporation require the approval of the holders of at least 80% of Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation’s outstanding shares of voting stock entitled to vote to approve certain “business combinations” with an “interested stockholder.” This supermajority voting requirement will not apply in cases where the proposed transaction has been approved by a majority of disinterested directors or where various fair price and procedural condition have been met.
 
44

 
 
 
For
 
Against, Abstain or Not Voted
 
           
Number of Votes
   
11,254,273
   
2,143,045
 
               
Number of Votes Cast by
Persons Other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
2,525,773
   
2,143,045
 
               
Percentage of 13,675,825
outstanding shares
   
82.3
%
 
15.7
%
               
Percentage of 4,947,325
shares owned by stockholders
other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
51.1
%  
 
43.3
%
 
Proposal No. 3(d)

The approval of a provision in Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation’s articles of incorporation requiring a super-majority vote to approve certain amendments to Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation’s articles of incorporation.
 
   
For
 
Against, Abstain or Not Voted
 
           
Number of Votes
   
11,217,009
   
2,180,309
 
               
Number of Votes Cast by
Persons Other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
2,488,509
   
2,180,309
 
               
Percentage of 13,675,825
outstanding shares
   
82.0
%
 
15.9
%
               
Percentage of 4,947,325
shares owned by stockholders
other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
50.3
%  
 
44.1
%
 
Proposal No. 3(e)

The approval of a provision in Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation’s bylaws requiring a super-majority vote of stockholders to approve stockholder proposed amendments to Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation’s bylaws.
 
45

 
   
For
 
Against, Abstain or Not Voted
 
           
Number of Votes
   
11,209,428
   
2,187,890
 
               
Number of Votes Cast by
Persons Other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
2,480,928
   
2,187,890
 
               
Percentage of 13,675,825
outstanding shares
   
82.0
%
 
16.0
%
               
Percentage of 4,947,325
shares owned by stockholders
other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
50.1
%  
 
44.2
%

Proposal No. 3(f)

The approval of a provision in Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation’s articles of incorporation to limit the voting rights of shares beneficially owned in excess of 10% of Atlantic Coast Financial Corporation’s outstanding voting stock.

   
For
 
Against, Abstain or Not Voted
 
           
Number of Votes
   
11,222,135
   
2,175,183
 
               
Number of Votes Cast by
Persons Other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
2,493,635
   
2,175,183
 
               
Percentage of 13,675,825
outstanding shares
   
82.1
%
 
15.9
%
               
Percentage of 4,947,325
shares owned by stockholders
other than the
Mutual Holding Company
   
50.4
%  
 
44.0
%
 
On December 12, 2007, the Company announced the termination of its Second Step Conversion under the Plan of Conversion and Reorganization due to market conditions.
 
46

 
PART II

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “ACFC.” As of March 21, 2008, there were 14,813,469 shares of common stock issued, with approximately 2,000 stockholders of record, including approximately 1,500 beneficial owners and other persons or entities holding stock in nominee or “street name” accounts with brokers.

The Company began paying quarterly dividends in May 2005 using earnings from investments and uninvested proceeds received from the minority share stock offering completed on October 4, 2004. Future dividend payments by Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation will be primarily dependent on dividends it receives from its subsidiary, Atlantic Coast Bank. Under OTS regulations, the dollar amount of dividends that Atlantic Coast Bank may pay is dependent upon its capital position and recent earnings. Generally, if Atlantic Coast Bank satisfies its capital requirements it may make dividend payments up to the limits prescribed in the OTS regulations. See Business -“How We Are Regulated-Limitations on Dividends and Other Capital Distributions.” Atlantic Coast Bank may not declare or pay a dividend on, or repurchase any, of its common stock if the effect thereof would cause the regulatory capital of the institution to be reduced below the amount prescribed by the OTS for adequately capitalized institutions.

The following table sets forth the quarterly market price range of, and dividends declared on, the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s common stock for the two years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006:

   
High
 
Low
 
Dividends
 
             
Fiscal 2007
             
January 1-March 31
 
$
19.10
 
$
17.18
 
$
0.13
 
April 1- June 30
   
20.06
   
15.55
   
0.14
 
July 1- September 30
   
15.80
   
12.42
   
0.15
 
October 1- December 31
   
15.38
   
10.61
   
0.15
 
                     
Fiscal 2006
                   
January 1-March 31
 
$
14.80
 
$
14.05
 
$
0.09
 
April 1- June 30
   
15.99
   
14.29
   
0.10
 
July 1- September 30
   
18.33
   
14.90
   
0.11
 
October 1- December 31
   
18.40
   
17.31
   
0.12
 

Set forth hereunder is a stock performance graph comparing: (a) the cumulative total return on the common stock of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation between October 5, 2004, the day the common stock commenced trading, and December 31, 2007, (b) the cumulative total return on stocks included in the Total Return Index for the NASDAQ Composite over such period, and (c) the cumulative total return on stocks included in the SNL MHC Thrift Index over such period. Cumulative return assumes the reinvestment of dividends, and is expressed in dollars based on an assumed investment of $100.
 
47

 
There can be no assurance that Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s stock performance will continue in the future with the same or similar trend depicted in the graph. Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation will not make or endorse any predictions as to future stock performance.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation

   
Period Ending
 
Index
 
10/05/04
 
12/31/04
 
06/30/05
 
12/31/05
 
12/31/06
 
12/31/07
 
Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation
   
100.00
   
117.19
   
105.74
   
121.39
   
161.27
   
108.67
 
NASDAQ Composite
   
100.00
   
111.25
   
105.19
   
112.78
   
123.51
   
135.63
 
SNL MHC Thrift Index
   
100.00
   
107.35
   
107.38
   
110.29
   
151.04
   
130.82
 

48


The table below sets forth information regarding Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s common stock repurchase plan during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006.

Quarter ended
 
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
 
Average
Price Paid
per Share
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly Announced Plans
or Programs
 
Maximum
Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under
the Plans or
Programs
 
March 31, 2007
   
105,838
   
18.59
   
105,838
   
182,646
 
June 30, 2007
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
182,646
 
September 30, 2007
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
182,646
 
December 31, 2007
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
182,646
 
Total
   
105,838
   
18.59
   
105,838
   
182,646
 
                           
March 31, 2006
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
200,032
 
June 30, 2006
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
200,032
 
September 30, 2006
   
335,782
   
17.50
   
335,782
   
342,250
 
December 31, 2006
   
53,766
   
18.18
   
53,766
   
288,484
 
Total
   
389,548
   
17.59
   
389,548
   
288,484
 

Set forth below is information, as of December 31, 2007, regarding equity compensation plans categorized by those plans that have been approved by stockholders and those plans that have not been approved by stockholders.

Plan
 
Number of
Securities to be Issued Upon
Exercise of Outstanding
Options, Warrants
and Rights
(1)
 
Weighted Average
Exercise Price
(2)
of Outstanding
Options, Warrants and
Rights
 
Number of Securities
Remaining Available
For Future Issuance
Under Equity
Compensation Plans
(3)
 
               
Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders
   
573,095
 
$
13.96
   
139,732
 
Equity compensation plans not approved by stockholders
   
   
   
 
Total
   
573,095
 
$
13.96
   
139,732
 
 

(1)  
Consists of options to purchase 573,095 shares of common stock under the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 2005 Stock Option Plan.
(2)  
The weighted average exercise price reflects the weighted average exercise price of stock options awarded from the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 2005 Stock Option Plan.
(3)  
Consists of stock options for 147,314 shares of common stock available to be granted from the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 2005 Stock Option Plan.
 
49

 
Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The following is a summary of selected consolidated financial data of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation at and for the dates indicated. The summary should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 herein.
 
   
At December 31,
 
Selected Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
2003
 
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Total assets
 
$
931,026
 
$
843,079
 
$
744,116
 
$
637,678
 
$
498,417
 
Cash and cash equivalents
   
29,310
   
41,057
   
37,959
   
25,708
   
8,996
 
Securities available-for-sale
   
134,216
   
99,231
   
71,965
   
53,363
   
26,039
 
Loans receivable, net
   
703,513
   
639,517
   
580,441
   
517,711
   
435,622
 
FHLB stock
   
9,293
   
7,948
   
7,074
   
5,511
   
3,082
 
Deposits
   
582,730
   
573,052
   
516,321
   
435,682
   
392,256
 
Total borrowings
   
173,000
   
144,000
   
129,000
   
100,314
   
60,971
 
Total stockholders’ equity
   
89,806
   
91,087
   
92,917
   
98,700
   
43,218
 

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
Selected Consolidated Statement of Income Data:
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
2003
 
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Total interest income
 
$
55,509
 
$
46,407
 
$
37,254
 
$
31,772
 
$
31,212
 
Total interest expense
   
33,123
   
24,747
   
17,139
   
11,643
   
11,781
 
Net interest income
   
22,386
   
21,660
   
20,115
   
20,129
   
19,431
 
Provision for loan losses
   
2,616
   
475
   
2,121
   
2,975
   
4,238
 
                                 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
   
19,770
   
21,185
   
17,994
   
17,154
   
15,193
 
Non-interest income
   
6,926
   
8,005
   
7,937
   
5,207
   
7,533
 
Non-interest expense
   
25,451
   
21,679
   
19,616
   
17,256
   
15,911
 
                                 
Income before income taxes
   
1,245
   
7,511
   
6,315
   
5,105
   
6,815
 
                                 
Income tax expense (1)
   
130
   
2,382
   
1,290
   
1,815
   
2,398
 
                                 
Net income
 
$
1,115
 
$
5,129
 
$
5,025
 
$
3,290
 
$
4,417
 
Earnings per share:                                
Basic
 
$
0.08
 
$
0.38
 
$
0.36
 
$
0.33
 
$
0.51
 
Earnings per share:                                 
Diluted
 
$
0.08
 
$
0.38
 
$
0.36
 
$
0.33
 
$
0.51
 
 
50


Item 6. Selected Financial Data, continued
 
Selected Consolidated Financial Ratios and Other Data:
 
At or For the Year Ended December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
2004
 
2003
 
Performance Ratios:
                     
Return on assets (ratio of net income to average total assets)
   
0.12
%
 
0.66
%
 
0.71
%
 
0.56
%
 
0.91
%
Return on equity (ratio of net income to average equity)
   
1.22
%
 
5.48
%
 
5.07
%
 
6.05
%
 
10.77
%
Dividend Payout ratio
   
712.5
%
 
110.53
%
 
72.22
%
 
-
%
 
-
%
Interest rate spread information:
                               
Average during period
   
2.23
%
 
2.55
%
 
2.62
%
 
3.29
%
 
3.98
%
Net interest margin(2)
   
2.67
%
 
2.99
%
 
3.06
%
 
3.64
%
 
4.25
%
Ratio of operating expense to average total assets
   
2.85
%
 
2.78
%
 
2.78
%
 
2.95
%
 
3.28
%
Efficiency ratio(3)
   
86.83
%
 
73.08
%
 
69.93
%
 
68.11
%
 
59.01
%
Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities
   
110.96
%
 
113.01
%
 
116.92
%
 
116.63
%
 
110.55
%
                                 
Asset Quality Ratios:
                               
Non-performing assets to total assets at end of period
   
1.03
%
 
0.40
%
 
0.39
%
 
1.09
%
 
1.73
%
Allowance for loan losses to non performing loans
   
82.69
%
 
154.21
%
 
175.36
%
 
59.42
%
 
87.13
%
Allowance for loan losses to total Loans
   
0.92
%
 
0.73
%
 
0.78
%
 
0.75
%
 
1.47
%
Net charge-offs to average outstanding loans
   
0.13
%
 
0.06
%
 
0.27
%
 
1.16
%
 
0.57
%
Non-performing loans to total Loans
   
1.11
%
 
0.48
%
 
0.45
%
 
1.28
%
 
1.72
%
                                 
Capital Ratios:
                               
Equity to total assets at end of period
   
9.65
%
 
10.80
%
 
12.49
%
 
15.48
%
 
8.67
%
Average equity to average assets
   
10.02
%
 
12.00
%
 
14.07
%
 
9.29
%
 
8.46
%
                                 
Other Data:
                               
Number of full-service offices
   
13
   
13
   
12
   
12
   
12
 
Number of loans
   
14,101
   
14,679
   
15,151
   
15,840
   
15,378
 
Number of deposit accounts(4)
   
48,334
   
49,896
   
51,738
   
56,962
   
65,954
 
 

 
(1)  
The 2005 income tax expense includes a benefit of $895,000 for the elimination of a tax-related contingent liability for the same amount. The tax-related contingent liability had been established by the Company in 2000 upon becoming a taxable entity and reflected the tax effect of the bad deduction taken by the Company in 2000 and 2001 calendar tax years. The Company believed the filing position was supportable based upon a reasonable interpretation of the federal income tax laws and the underlying regulations. However, due to the lack of prior rulings on similar fact patterns, it was unknown whether the accounting method would be sustained upon audit by either the federal or state tax authorities. The applicable statute of limitations expired with respect to the 2001 tax year on September 15, 2005, making the contingent liability unnecessary.
 
(2)  
Net interest income divided by average interest earning assets.
 
(3)  
Efficiency ratio represents non-interest expense as a percentage of net interest income plus non-interest income.
 
(4)  
Changes to the Company’s deposit system in 2004, enabled it to purge old account information that had existed since a system conversion in 2002. Approximately 7,000 accounts were affected.
 
51


Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

General

Historically, the Bank’s principal business has consisted of attracting deposits from the general public and the business community and making loans secured by various types of collateral, including real estate and other consumer assets. The Bank is significantly affected by prevailing economic conditions, particularly interest rates, as well as government policies and regulations concerning among other things, monetary and fiscal affairs, housing and financial institutions. Attracting and maintaining deposits is influenced by a number of factors, including interest rates paid on competing investments offered by other financial and non-financial institutions, account maturities, fee structures, and level of personal income and savings. Lending activities are affected by the demand for funds and thus are influenced by interest rates, the number and quality of lenders and regional economic growth. Sources of funds for lending activities of the Bank include deposits, borrowings, payments on loans, maturities of securities and income provided from operations, as well as proceeds obtained in the minority stock offering. Earnings are primarily dependent upon net interest income, which is the difference between interest income and interest expense.

Interest income is a function of the balances of loans and investments outstanding during a given period and the yield earned on such loans and investments. Interest expense is a function of the amount of deposits and borrowings outstanding during the same period and interest rates paid on such deposits and borrowings. Earnings are also affected by the Bank’s provisions for loan losses, service charges, gains from sales of loans, commission income, interchange fees, other income, non-interest expenses and income taxes. Non-interest expenses consist of compensation and benefit expenses, occupancy and equipment costs, data processing costs, outside professional services, interchange fees, advertising expenses, telephone expense, and other expenses.

Critical Accounting Policies

Certain accounting policies are important to the portrayal of the Company’s financial condition, since they require management to make difficult, complex or subjective judgments, some of which may relate to matters that are inherently uncertain. Estimates associated with these policies are susceptible to material changes as a result of changes in facts and circumstances, including, but without limitation, changes in interest rates, performance of the economy, financial condition of borrowers and laws and regulations. Management believes that its critical accounting policies include determining the allowance for loan losses, accounting for deferred income taxes, and the valuation of goodwill. Accounting policies are discussed in detail in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8.

Allowance for Loan Losses

An allowance for loan losses is maintained to reflect probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio. The allowance is based on ongoing assessments of the estimated losses incurred in the loan portfolio. Management’s methodology for assessing the appropriateness of the allowance consists of several key elements, which include a SFAS No. 5, Accounting for Contingencies (“SFAS 5”) component by type of loan and specific allowances for identified problem loans. The allowance incorporates the results of measuring impaired loans as provided in SFAS 114 and SFAS No. 118, Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan - Income Recognition and Disclosures. These accounting standards prescribe the measurement methods, income recognition and disclosures related to impaired loans.

52

 
The SFAS 5 component is calculated by applying loss factors to outstanding loans based on the internal risk evaluation of the loans or pools of loans. Changes in risk evaluations of both performing and non-performing loans affect the amount of the SFAS 5 component. Loss factors are based on the Bank’s historical loss experience, current market conditions that may impact real estate values within the Bank’s primary lending areas, and on other significant factors that, in management’s judgment, may affect the ability to collect loans in the portfolio as of the evaluation date. Other significant factors that exist as of the balance sheet date that may be considered in determining the adequacy of the allowance include credit quality trends (including trends in non-performing loans expected to result from existing conditions), collateral values, geographic foreclosure rates, new and existing home inventories, loan volumes and concentrations, specific industry conditions within portfolio segments and recent loss experience in particular segments of the portfolio. These factors weighed more prominently in the allowance calculation for 2007 and management believes this trend will continue.  

The appropriateness of the allowance is reviewed and established by management based upon its evaluation of then-existing economic and business conditions affecting the Bank’s key lending areas. Senior credit officers monitor the conditions discussed above continuously and reviews are conducted quarterly with the Bank’s senior management and Board of Directors.

Management also evaluates the allowance for loan losses based on a review of individual loans. This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates including the amounts and timing of future cash flows management expects to receive on impaired loans that may be susceptible to significant change. For all specifically reviewed loans where it is probable that the Bank will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the terms of the loan agreement, impairment is determined by computing a fair value based on either discounted cash flows using the loan’s initial interest rate or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Large groups of smaller balance homogenous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment and are excluded from specific impairment evaluation. For these loans, the allowance for loan losses is calculated in accordance with the allowance for loan losses policy described above.

The allowance for loan losses was $6.5 million at December 31, 2007, and $4.7 million at December 31, 2006. The allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans was 0.92% at December 31, 2007, and 0.73% as of December 31, 2006. The provision for loan losses for each quarter of 2007 and 2006, and the total for the respective years is as follows:

   
2007
 
2006
 
   
(In Millions)
 
First quarter
 
$
0.3
 
$
0.1
 
Second quarter
   
0.5
   
0.2
 
Third quarter
   
0.4
   
(0.1
)
   
1.4
   
0.3
 
Total
 
$
2.6
 
$
0.5
 

This data demonstrates the manner in which the allowance for loan losses and related provision expense can change over long-term and short-term periods. Changes in economic conditions, the nature and size of the loan portfolio and individual borrower conditions can dramatically impact the required level of allowance for loan losses, particularly for larger individually evaluated loan relationships, in relatively short periods of time. The allowance for loan losses allocated to individually evaluated loan relationships was $1.4 million at December 31, 2007 and $500,000 at December 31, 2006, an increase of $900,000, primarily due to a decline in both real estate values and credit quality. The increase in the fourth quarter of 2007 primarily reflected the addition of certain northeast Florida commercial real estate loans. Given the rapidly changing and uncertain real estate market coupled with changes in borrowers’ financial condition, weakening of collateral values, and the overall economic conditions, management anticipates that there will continue to be significant changes in individual specific loss allocations in future periods as these factors are difficult to predict and can vary widely as more information becomes available or as projected events change.
 
53

 
Valuation of Goodwill

The Bank assesses the carrying value of goodwill at least annually in order to determine if it is impaired. In reviewing the carrying value of goodwill, management assesses the recoverability by evaluating the fair value of the Company’s community banking segment, which is the Bank’s only business segment. Any impairment would be required to be recorded during the period identified. The Bank’s goodwill totaled $2.7 million as of December 31, 2007; therefore, if goodwill was determined to be impaired, the financial results could be materially impacted.

Deferred Income Taxes

After converting to a federally chartered savings association, Atlantic Coast Bank became a taxable organization. Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are the expected future tax amounts for the temporary difference between carrying amounts and tax basis of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. The Internal Revenue Code and applicable regulations are subject to interpretation with respect to the determination of the tax basis of assets and liabilities for credit unions that convert charters and become a taxable organization. Since Atlantic Coast Bank’s transition to a federally chartered thrift, Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation has recorded income tax expense based upon management’s interpretation of the applicable tax regulations. Positions taken by the Company in preparing federal and state tax returns are subject to the review of taxing authorities, and the review by taxing authorities of the positions taken by management could result in a material adjustment to the financial statements.

Business Strategy

Increase our Commercial Real Estate, Commercial and Residential Construction, Commercial Business Loans and Home Equity Lending. For the past five years our lending efforts were focused on the origination of one- to four-family residential real estate loans. More recently, we have begun to shift our focus to increasing our originations of home equity loans and construction loans for one- to four- family residences since these loans carry higher interest rates and adjust quicker when market rates increase. To a lesser extent, we have also originated other secured commercial loans (including permanent and construction commercial real estate and small business loans) and other types of consumer loans, such as automobile loans. Generally we originate all loans for portfolio retention. In the future, we intend to gradually reduce the relative percentage of outstanding one- to four-family residential loans while growing the outstanding balances of commercial real estate loans, both permanent and construction, and commercial business loans as opportunities arise while taking into consideration our funding needs and interest rate risk management.

This change in lending focus reflects changes in the real estate market in northeastern Florida along with the effect of the current and expected yield curve on loan pricing and the cost of deposits in our markets. In addition, our business strategy emphasizes the collection of retail deposits along with Federal Home Loan Bank advances as our principal sources of funds. In the future, we expect our strategy of increasing commercial real estate and other commercial loans will also lead to increased commercial deposit relationships which generally have a lower cost of funds than retail deposits.
 
54

 
Improve our Profitability. Our primary objective is to remain an independent, community-oriented financial institution, serving customers in our primary market areas. The Board of Directors has sought to accomplish this objective through the adoption of a strategy designed to increase our profitability, grow our capital position and maintain high asset quality. This strategy, which includes our lending strategy described above, primarily involves: 1.) maintaining a portfolio of securities with investments, including mortgage-backed securities, that enable us to balance investment risk, rate of return and liquidity needs; 2.) managing operating expenses while providing high-quality customer service; 3.) purchasing one- to four-family residential mortgage loans for the purpose of supplementing our internal loan production and managing our interest rate risk; and 4.) capitalizing on the profitability and growth opportunities in our retail banking network by expanding individual customer relationships and focusing on targeted market segments.
 
Branch Expansion. As part of our on-going growth strategy, we will continue to explore branch network opportunities, either by building or leasing new branch facilities, or through acquisition from other financial institutions. Our recently completed and known future branch initiatives include:

·  
opening a new branch in 2006 in St. Johns County, Florida;
·  
completing construction of a new location to replace an existing facility in Neptune Beach, Florida, which opened in January 2007;
·  
relocating our Orange Park, Florida branch office to a newly leased space about one mile from the current location, which opened January 2008; and
·  
evaluating options for a new Florida headquarters that contains a branch office. We cannot estimate the total costs of this project at this time because site selection and the size of the building have not yet been determined.
 
Our results of operations may be significantly impacted by our ability to effectively implement our plans for expansion through acquisition or by the opening of new branches. Should we be unable to effectively integrate and manage acquired or merged businesses or attract significant new business through our branching efforts, our financial performance could be negatively impacted.
 
55

 
Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006

General. Balance sheet growth for the year ended December 31, 2007 as compared to December 31, 2006 reflects a double-digit increase for the third consecutive year. Loan growth outpaced deposit growth, therefore the Bank had to leverage this growth through borrowings. Additionally, as part of our ongoing asset and liability management strategy, we continued to leverage our growth in securities available for sale to take advantage of favorable interest rate spreads and to reduce our overall exposure to interest rate risk.

Following is a summarized comparative balance sheet as of December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Increase(decrease)
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
Dollars
 
Percentage
 
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Assets
                         
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
29,310
 
$
41,057
 
$
(11,747
)
 
-28.6
%
Other interest earning investments
   
-
   
1,200
   
(1,200
)
 
-100.0
%
Securities available for sale
   
134,216
   
99,231
   
34,985
   
35.3
%
Loans
   
709,995
   
644,222
   
65,773
   
10.2
%
Allowance for loan losses
   
(6,482
)
 
(4,705
)
 
(1,777
)
 
37.8
%
Loans, net
   
703,513
   
639,517
   
63,996
   
10.0
%
Loans held for sale
   
640
   
4,365
   
(3,725
)
 
-85.3
%
Other assets
   
63,347
   
57,709
   
5,638
   
9.8
%
Total assets
 
$
931,026
 
$
843,079
 
$
87,947
   
10.4
%
 
                 
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
                 
Deposits
                 
Non-interest bearing
 
$
35,284
 
$
38,301
 
$
(3,017
)
 
-7.9
%
Interest bearing transaction accounts
   
45,893
   
52,895
   
(7,002
)
 
-13.2
%
Savings and money-market
   
184,899
   
158,229
   
26,670
   
16.9
%
Time
   
316,654
   
323,627
   
(6,973
)
 
-2.2
%
Total deposits
   
582,730
   
573,052
   
9,678
   
1.7
%
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
   
173,000
   
144,000
   
29,000
   
20.1
%
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
   
78,500
   
29,000
   
49,500
   
170.7
%
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
6,990
   
5,940
   
1,050
   
17.7
%
Total liabilities
   
841,220
   
751,992
   
89,228
   
11.9
%
Stockholders' equity
   
89,806
   
91,087
   
(1,281
)
 
-1.4
%
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
931,026
 
$
843,079
 
$
87,947
   
10.4
%

Cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents is comprised principally of balances held in other depository institutions. It is expected that the balances maintained in cash and cash equivalents will fluctuate as other interest earning assets mature, management identifies opportunities for longer-term investments that fit the Company’s growth strategy, or daily operating liquidity increases or decreases.

Securities available for sale. Securities available for sale is comprised primarily of debt securities of U.S. Government-sponsored organizations that issue mortgages, or mortgage-backed securities. In the near-term management expects the composition of the investment in securities available for sale to continue to be heavily weighted in mortgage-backed securities or the debt of U.S. Government-sponsored organizations that issue mortgages. During the year ended December 31, 2007, the Bank purchased approximately $67.9 million of investment securities, nearly all of which were mortgage-backed securities or the debt of government-sponsored organizations.
 
56

 
Real estate mortgages held for sale. Real estate mortgages held for sale are comprised entirely of loans secured by one- to four-family residential homes. The balance outstanding at December 31, 2007 is composed of individual residential mortgage loans assigned to the Bank in connection with a loan agreement with a mortgage broker entered into during 2006. Under the terms of the loan agreement, the Bank provides funds to the mortgage broker for individual mortgage loan closings. In exchange the Bank accepts an assignment of the individual mortgage loan pending its sale to various third-party investors arranged by the mortgage broker. Upon acceptance for purchase by the third-party investors, the loan agreement requires the Bank to reassign the loan back to the mortgage broker at par, for completion of the third-party sale. The Bank receives interest income upon the sale of these loans for the period of the assignment. As of December 31, 2007, the weighted average number of days outstanding of real estate mortgages held for sale was 5 days.
 
Loans. Following is a comparative composition of net loans as of December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006:
 
   
As of December 31,
 
Increase (decrease)
 
 
 
2007
 
% of total
loans
 
2006
 
% of total
loans
 
Dollars
 
Percentage
 
 
 
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
Real estate loans:
                                     
One-to-four family
 
$
377,956
   
53.5
%
$
334,000
   
52.1
%
$
43,956
   
13.2
%
Commercial
   
74,748
   
10.6
%
 
60,912
   
9.5
%
 
13,836
   
22.7
%
Other ( Land & Multifamily)
   
40,698
   
5.8
%
 
34,446
   
5.4
%
 
6,252
   
18.2
%
Total real estate loans
   
493,402
   
69.9
%
 
429,358
   
67.0
%
 
64,044
   
14.9
%
 
                         
Real estate construction loans:
                         
Construction-one-to-four family
   
13,448
   
1.9
%
 
32,467
   
5.1
%
 
(19,019
)
 
-58.6
%
Construction-commercial
   
11,129
   
1.6
%
 
2,862
   
0.4
%
 
8,267
   
288.9
%
Acquisition & development
   
5,329
   
0.7
%
 
2,103
   
0.3
%
 
3,226
   
153.4
%
Total real estate construction loans
   
29,906
   
4.2
%
 
37,432
   
5.8
%
 
(7,526
)
 
-20.1
%
 
                         
Other loans:
                         
Home equity
   
98,410
   
13.9
%
 
91,062
   
14.2
%
 
7,348
   
8.1
%
Consumer
   
64,673
   
9.2
%
 
63,630
   
9.9
%
 
1,043
   
1.6
%
Commercial
   
20,009
   
2.8
%
 
19,044
   
3.0
%
 
965
   
5.1
%
Total other loans
   
183,092
   
25.9
%
 
173,736
   
27.1
%
 
9,356
   
5.4
%
 
                         
Total loans
   
706,400
   
100
%
 
640,526
   
100
%
 
65,874
   
10.3
%
 
                         
Allowance for loan losses
   
(6,482
)
     
(4,705
)
     
(1,777
)
 
37.8
%
Net deferred loan costs
   
3,256
       
3,348
       
(92
)
 
-2.7
%
Premiums on purchased loans
   
339
       
348
       
(9
)
 
-2.6
%
 
                         
Loans, net
 
$
703,513
     
$
639,517
     
$
63,996
   
10.0
%
 
57

 
The composition of the net loan portfolio is heavily weighted toward loans secured by first mortgages, home equity loans, or second mortgages on one- to four-family residences. These loan categories represented approximately 67% and 66% of the total loan portfolio at December 31, 2007, and December 31, 2006, respectively. The modest increase in the Bank’s largest loan category, one- to four-family residential mortgages, reflects a change made to the marketing strategy in the second half of 2005 to reduce emphasis on this category of loans due to the on-going flat yield curve, which continued to hold interest rates on longer-term loans low relative to the Company’s cost of funds. More recently, growth has been negatively impacted by the slowing in residential real estate sales activity in the Bank’s markets. Recent reports by state and national real estate organizations have reported substantial declines in residential real estate sales activity in the Northeast Florida markets, as well as in Florida in general. As a result of these factors, management believes that growth in one- to four-family residential mortgages will be limited in the near term. During 2007, in order to supplement internal retail loan origination volumes, the Company purchased approximately $51.0 million of fixed rate one-to four-family residential loans. Depending on liquidity, earning needs and the supply of high-quality loans management may continue to purchase one- to four-family residential mortgage loans to supplement internal loan originations and maintain current loan portfolio balances.

The Company’s loan portfolio is also heavily weighted in the state of Florida with 60 percent of one- to four-family loans being secured by properties in Florida. Georgia represents the second highest concentration with 26 percent of total one- to four-family loans. At December 31, 2007, 69 percent of the Bank’s residential construction loan portfolio was concentrated in Florida.

   
Georgia
 
Florida
 
Other States
 
Total
 
1-4 Family First Mortgages
 
$
84,483
 
$
228,517
 
$
64,956
 
$
377,956
 
1-4 Family Second Mortgages
   
41,076
   
54,972
   
2,362
   
98,410
 
1-4 Family Construction Loans
   
2,311
   
9,305
   
1,832
   
13,448
 
   
$
127,870
 
$
292,794
 
$
69,150
 
$
489,814
 

Total loan growth during 2007 was achieved primarily from one- to four-family residential loans, construction loans and home equity loans. 

Allowance for Loan Losses. Allowance for loan losses was 0.92% and 0.73% of total loans outstanding at December 31, 2007 and 2006. Allowance for loan losses activity for the twelve months ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 was as follows:

 
 
2007
 
2006
 
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Beginning balance
 
$
4,705
 
$
4,587
 
Loans charged-off
   
(2,953
)
 
(1,215
)
Recoveries
   
2,114
   
858
 
Net charge-offs
   
(839
)
 
(357
)
Provision for loan losses
   
2,616
   
475
 
Ending balance
 
$
6,482
 
$
4,705
 

58


An allowance for loan losses is maintained to reflect probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio. The allowance is based on ongoing assessments of the estimated losses incurred in the loan portfolio. The general reserve, or SFAS 5, component is calculated by applying loss factors to outstanding loans based on an internal risk evaluation of both performing and non-performing loans. Loss factors are based on the Bank’s historical loss experience, current market conditions that may impact real estate values within the Bank’s primary lending areas, and on other significant factors that, in management’s judgment, may affect the ability to collect loans in the portfolio as of the evaluation date. Other significant factors that exist as of the balance sheet date that may be considered in determining the adequacy of the allowance include credit quality trends (including trends in non-performing loans expected to result from existing conditions), collateral values, geographic foreclosure rates, new and existing home inventories, loan volumes and concentrations, specific industry conditions within portfolio segments and recent loss experience in particular segments of the portfolio. These factors weighed more prominently in the allowance calculation for 2007 and management believes this trend will continue.  

Management also evaluates the allowance for loan losses based on a review of individual loans. This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates including the amounts and timing of future cash flows management expects to receive on impaired loans that may be susceptible to significant change. For all specifically reviewed loans where it is probable that the Bank will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the terms of the loan agreement, impairment is determined by computing a fair value based on either discounted cash flows using the loan’s initial interest rate or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Large groups of smaller balance homogenous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment and are excluded from specific impairment evaluation. For these loans, the allowance for loan losses is calculated in accordance with the allowance for loan losses policy described above.
 
 Non-performing loans totaled $7.8 million, or 1.11% of total loans, at December 31, 2007, compared to $3.1 million, or 0.48% of total loans, at December 31, 2006. Total impaired loans increased to $5.4 million at December 31, 2007 from $2.0 million at December 31, 2006, due mainly to a decline in both real estate values and credit quality. The total allowance allocated for impaired loans was $1.4 million, and $500,000 as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. As of December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, all non-performing loans were classified as non-accrual, and the Bank did not have any restructured loans or loans 90 days past due and accruing interest as of the same dates. Non-performing loans, excluding small balance homogeneous loans, were $4.4 million and $1.1 million at December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively.

Net charge-offs to average outstanding loans was 0.13% in 2007 up from 0.06% for 2006. Management believes net charge-offs will continue at high levels in 2008 in light of declining real estate values and current credit quality concerns.

Deposits. Savings and money market deposit account balances grew during the year ended December 31, 2007 as compared to the end of 2006, as the Bank increased the interest rates paid on its money market products to meet the rate of competitors in its markets. While raising the interest rates was necessary to both protect and grow deposit balances, management believes to a certain degree it has led to a disintermediation within the Bank’s deposit products, particularly from interest-bearing demand accounts, whose balances have declined during the year partially off setting the growth in money market account balances over the same period of time.
 
59

 
The decrease in time deposits as of December 31, 2007, as compared to 2006, includes approximately $5.1 million of additional brokered deposits, offset by the maturity of approximately $10.0 million. The brokered deposits have been used to replace maturing certificate of deposits and fund loan growth. Management expects future deposit growth as the Bank expands its products and services in new and existing markets, particularly in core deposits. Additionally, management anticipates that the Company will continue to purchase brokered deposits to meet liquidity demands when interest rates are favorable.

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase. Historically, the Company has only utilized advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta or broker originated certificates of deposit as an alternative to organic deposits for funding its lending and investment activities. While management expects FHLB advances to continue to be a significant source of funds in the future, the Company also expects to continue to utilize the sale of securities under an agreements to repurchase as a significant source of funds as well.

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase are secured by mortgage-backed securities with a carrying amount of $78.5 million at December 31, 2007 with maturities beginning in October 2013, or, beginning in July 2008, individual advances may be terminated in whole by the lender each following quarter. At maturity or termination, the securities underlying the agreements will be returned to the Company.

Depending on the availability of suitable securities and the prevailing interest rates and terms of alternative source of funds, the Company may continue to sell securities under agreements to repurchase in the future.

Federal Home Loan Bank advances. The Bank borrows funds from the FHLB to support its lending and investment activities. The increase in FHLB borrowings as of December 31, 2007 as compared to December 31, 2006, is due to additional advances of $95.0 million used to replace $66.0 million of advances that matured in 2007 and to fund lending growth.
 
FHLB advances had a weighted-average maturity of 86 months and a weighted-average rate of 4.23% at December 31, 2007. The Company expects to continue to utilize FHLB advances to manage short and long-term liquidity needs to the extent it has borrowing capacity, needs funding and the interest cost of FHLB advances is attractive compared to deposits and other alternative source of funds.

Stockholders’ Equity

Net other comprehensive income for the twelve months ended December 31, 2007 resulted from an increase in unrealized gains on available for sale securities of $308,000. Going forward, management expects changes in interest rates to continue to cause swings in unrealized gains and losses from available for sale securities.

During 2007, the Company’s board of directors declared regular quarterly cash dividends in the aggregate of $0.57 per share. Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC which holds 8,728,500 shares, or 63.8% of the Stock Company’s total outstanding stock at December 31, 2007, has waived receipt of the dividend on its owned shares for each quarter of 2007. Total dividend payments waived by the MHC were $5.0 million. Management expects the MHC to waive receipt of payment on future dividends for its owned shares.

60

 
In August 2006 Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation completed its stock repurchase plan that began in early November 2005 by repurchasing approximately 580,000 shares of its common stock at an average price of $17.28 per share. In September 2006 the Stock Company’s Board of Directors approved a new repurchase plan to permit the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation to purchase, over a 12-month period, up to 10%, or 478,000 shares of its outstanding common stock. Following the approval of the new stock repurchase plan the Stock Company repurchased approximately 190,000 shares at an average price of $17.92 per share during 2006 and 106,000 shares at an average price of $18.59 during the first quarter of 2007. As of December 31, 2007 approximately 182,000 shares of common stock remained to be repurchased under this plan although no assurances can be made regarding the number of shares that will actually be purchased, or the price that will be paid for such shares.

The Company’s equity to total assets ratio decreased to 9.65% at December 31, 2007, from 10.80% at December 31, 2006. The decrease was primarily due to the rate of asset growth through December 31, 2007, the stock purchase program and the expenses for the terminated Second-Step Conversion. Despite this decrease, Atlantic Coast Bank continued to be well in excess of all minimum regulatory capital requirements, and is considered “well-capitalized” under this requirement. Total risk-based capital to risk-weighted assets was 12.1%, Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets was 11.2%, and Tier 1 capital to adjusted total assets was 7.7% at December 31, 2007. These ratios as of December 31, 2006 were 13.8%, 13.1% and 9.3%, respectively.

Comparison of Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2007 and 2006.

General. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2007, was $1.1 million, a decrease of $4.0 million from $5.1 million the year ended December 31, 2006. Net interest income increased 3.4%, or $726,000 in the year ended December 31, 2007 to $22.4 million, as compared to 2006, on growth in interest earning assets combined with an increase in the interest yield on such assets that offset the rising cost of deposits. Based on the geographic concentration of the Company's loan portfolio in the northeast Florida market, the weakening of specific loan participations as described under Non-Performing Assets, continued industry-wide credit quality concerns and the rapidly changing and uncertain real estate market conditions, the provision for loan losses was $2.6 million, an increase of 450.7% from $475,000 in 2006. Non-interest income for the year ended December 31, 2007 decreased by 13.5% to $6.9 million, as compared to $8.0 million in 2006, due primarily to decreased revenue from service charges and fees, lower income from interest rate swap agreements and higher loss on sale of foreclosed assets. Non-interest expense grew $3.8 million, or 17.4%, to $25.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2006, from $21.7 million in 2006, primarily due to the expensing of $1.8 million in costs incurred for the terminated Second-Step Conversion as well as increased compensation and benefit costs and other operating costs.

Average Balances, Net Interest Income, Yields Earned and Rates Paid. The table on the following page sets forth certain information for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005. The average yields and costs are derived by dividing income or expense by the average balance of assets or liabilities, respectively, for the periods presented.

61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For the year ended December 31,
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
 
 
Average Balance
 
Interest
 
Average Yield /Cost
 
Average Balance
 
Interest
 
Average Yield /Cost
 
Average Balance
 
Interest
 
Average Yield /Cost
 
                                                        
INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS
                                     
Loans receivable(1)
 
$
668,150
 
$
46,331
   
6.93
$
613,532
 
$
41,029
   
6.69
$
549,259
 
$
33,606
   
6.12
%
Securites(2)
   
126,809
   
6,822
   
5.38
%
 
75,917
   
3,604
   
4.75
%
 
63,338
   
2,092
   
3.30
%
Other interest-earning assets(3)
   
44,607
   
2,356
   
5.28
%
 
34,205
   
1,774
   
5.19
%
 
45,632
   
1,556
   
3.41
%
                                                                                       
Total interest-earning assets
   
839,566
   
55,509
   
6.61
%
 
723,654
   
46,407
   
6.41
%
 
658,229
   
37,254
   
5.66
%
Non-interest-earning assets
   
54,085
               
56,600
               
46,658
             
Total assets
 
$
893,651
             
$
780,254
             
$
704,887
             
                                                         
INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES
                                                       
Savings deposits
 
$
40,333
   
157
   
0.39
%
$
49,104
   
195
   
0.40
%
$
61,069
   
260
   
0.43
%
Interest on interest-bearing demand
   
50,092
   
1,481
   
2.96
%
 
58,454
   
1,572
   
2.69
%
 
60,774
   
1,307
   
2.15
%
Money market accounts
   
155,863
   
7,012
   
4.50
%
 
77,989
   
3,098
   
3.97
%
 
53,942
   
1,415
   
2.62
%
Time deposits
   
303,102
   
15,145
   
5.00
%
 
312,564
   
13,584
   
4.35
%
 
267,725
   
9,186
   
3.43
%
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
   
148,184
   
6,653
   
4.49
%
 
128,260
   
5,664
   
4.42
%
 
119,463
   
4,971
   
4.16
%
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
   
59,063
   
2,675
 
 
4.53
%
 

13,951
   
634
 
4.54
%
 
-
   
-
    -  
                                                         
Total interest-bearing liabilities
   
756,637
   
33,123
   
4.38
%
 
640,322
   
24,747
   
3.86
%
 
562,973
   
17,139
   
3.04
%
Non-interest-bearing liabilities
   
45,563
               
46,318
               
42,744
             
Total liabilities
   
802,200
               
686,640
               
605,717
             
Stockholders' equity
   
91,451
               
93,614
               
99,170
             
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
  893,651        
 
 
  $
780,254
       
 
 
  $
704,887
             
                                                         
Net interest income
       
$
22,386
             
$
21,660
             
$
20,115
       
Net interest spread
               
2.23
%
             
2.55
%
             
2.62
%
Net earning assets
 
$
82,929
             
$
83,332
             
$
95,256
             
Net interest margin(4)
               
2.67
%
             
2.99
%
             
3.06
%
Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities
          110.96  
 
 
       
113.01
 
 
 
       
116.92
     
 
(1)
Calculated net of deferred loan fees and loss reserve. Nonaccrual loans included as loans carrying a zero yield.     
(2)
Calculated based on carrying value. Not full tax equivalents, as the numbers would not change materially from those presented in the table.
(3)
Includes Federal Home Loan Bank stock at cost and term deposits with other financial institutions.       
(4)
Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.            
 
62

 
Rate/Volume Analysis. The following table presents the dollar amount of changes in interest income and interest expense for major components of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities as of and for the year ended December 31, 2007 as compared to 2006. For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided on changes attributable to: (1) changes in volume multiplied by the old rate; (2) changes in rate, which are changes in rate multiplied by the old volume; and (3) changes not solely attributable to rate or volume have been allocated proportionately to the change due to volume and the change due to rate.

 
 
2007 vs. 2006
 
2006 vs. 2005
 
 
 
Increase (Decrease)
 
Total
 
Increase (Decrease)
 
Total
 
 
 
Due to
 
Increase
 
Due to
 
Increase
 
 
 
Volume
 
Rate
 
(Decrease)
 
Volume
 
Rate
 
(Decrease)
 
INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Loans receivable
 
$
3,412
 
$
1,890
 
$
5,302
 
$
4,136
 
$
3,287
 
$
7,423
 
Securites
   
2,685
   
534
   
3,219
   
472
   
1,039
   
1,511
 
Other interest-earning assets
   
549
   
32
   
581
   
(455
)
 
674
   
219
 
Total interest-earning assets
   
6,646
   
2,456
   
9,102
   
4,153
   
5,000
   
9,153
 
                                       
INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES
                                     
Savings deposits
   
(34
)
 
(4
)
 
(38
)
 
(48
)
 
(17
)
 
(65
)
Interest bearing demand accounts
   
(238
)
 
147
   
(91
)
 
(51
)
 
316
   
265
 
Money market accounts
   
3,455
   
459
   
3,914
   
781
   
901
   
1,682
 
Time deposits
   
(421
)
 
1,983
   
1,562
   
1,697
   
2,701
   
4,398
 
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
   
893
   
96
   
989
   
378
   
316
   
694
 
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
   
2,043
   
(2
)
 
2,041
   
634
   
-
   
634
 
Total interest-bearing liabilities
   
5,698
   
2,679
   
8,377
   
3,391
   
4,217
   
7,608
 
                                       
Net interest income
 
$
948
 
$
(223
)
$
725
 
$
762
 
$
783
 
$
1,545
 
 
63

 
Interest income. Interest income increased to $55.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2007 from $46.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2006. As shown in the table above the increase in interest income for the year ended December 31, 2007, as compared to 2006, is predominantly due to the growth in average outstanding interest-earning assets, although rate earned on interest-earning assets also contributed to such growth. Loans accounted for approximately 58% of the interest income growth, or $5.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2007, as compared to 2006. The growth in average outstanding balances of one- to four-family residential loans, construction loans and home equity loans for the year ended December 31, 2007, as compared to 2006, accounted for the majority of the total $54.6 million in average loan growth. During the same period, the prime rate decreased 100 basis points from 8.25% to 7.25%.

The growth in interest income from investment securities and other interest-earning assets for the year ended December 31, 2007, as compared to 2006 was primarily due to higher average balances and to a lesser extent increased yields on these assets.

Interest expense. Interest expense increased to $33.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2007 from $24.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2006. The increase in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2007, as compared to 2006, was primarily due to growth in average outstanding balances of money market deposit accounts, FHLB advances and securities sold under agreements to repurchase, as well as increases in interest rates paid on those accounts. During the period of time from September 2007 through the end of 2007, the Federal Reserve Board decreased the target rate for Federal Funds borrowings by 100 basis points, from 5.25% to 4.25%. In general, this has led to rate decreases to interest-bearing deposit accounts in the Bank’s markets, even as competition for deposits among financial institutions is intense. The Company has decreased interest rates on its money-market accounts, interest bearing demand accounts and time deposits. The rate of interest expense on FHLB advances has remained relatively flat for the year ended December 31, 2007 as compared to 2006, as new advances have generally had longer maturities and, therefore the Company has benefited from the flat or inverted yield curve.

Net interest income. Net interest income increased to $22.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2007 from $21.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2006. Net interest income increased during the year ended December 31, 2007, as compared to 2006, as the growth in interest income outpaced the growth in interest expense. Net interest spread, which is the difference between the interest yield earned on interest earning assets and the interest rate paid on interest bearing liabilities, decreased 32 basis points to 2.23% for the year ended December 31, 2007 as compared to 2.55% for 2006 due to the inverted yield curve holding long-term rates at or below short-term funding costs resulting in higher funding costs relative to loan yields. For the same comparative periods, net interest margin, which is net interest income expressed as a percentage of average interest earning assets decreased 32 basis points to 2.67% in 2007 from 2.99% for 2006.

Provision for loan losses. Management assesses the allowance for loan losses on a quarterly basis and makes provisions for loan losses as necessary in order to maintain the allowance for loan losses based on all known and inherent losses that are both probable and can be reasonably estimated. While management uses available information to recognize losses on loans, future loan loss provisions may necessarily be based on changes in economic conditions and changes in borrower situations. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the allowance for loan losses and may require additional provisions based on their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examination.

64

 
The allowance for loan losses is maintained to reflect probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio. The allowance is based on ongoing assessments of the estimated losses incurred in the loan portfolio. The general reserve, or SFAS 5, component is calculated by applying loss factors to outstanding loans based on an internal risk evaluation of both performing and non-performing loans. Loss factors are based on the Bank’s historical loss experience, current market conditions that may impact real estate values within the Bank’s primary lending areas, and on other significant factors that, in management’s judgment, may affect the ability to collect loans in the portfolio as of the evaluation date. Other significant factors that exist as of the balance sheet date that may be considered in determining the adequacy of the allowance include credit quality trends (including trends in non-performing loans expected to result from existing conditions), collateral values, geographic foreclosure rates, new and existing home inventories, loan volumes and concentrations, specific industry conditions within portfolio segments and recent loss experience in particular segments of the portfolio. These factors weighed more prominently in the allowance calculation for 2007 and management believes this trend will continue.

Provision for loan losses of $2.6 million and $475,000 were made during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. The increase in the provision for loan losses was primarily due to a decline in credit quality and an increase in net-charge-offs. For the year ended December 31, 2007 net charge-offs were $839,000, while for 2006, net charge-offs were $357,000. See “Business - Non-Performing Assets”.

Non-interest income. The components of non-interest income for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 were as follows:

 
 
 
 
 
 
Increase(decrease)
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
Dollars
 
Percentage
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Service charges and fees
 
$
5,251
 
$
5,745
 
$
(494
)
 
-8.6
%
Gain on sale of real estate mortgages held for sale
   
34
   
67
   
(33
)
 
-49.3
%
Gain (loss) on sale of foreclosed assets
   
(247
)
 
(1
)
 
(246
)
 
24600.0
%
Net loss on available for sale securities
   
(46
)
 
(163
)
 
117
   
-71.8
%
Commission income
   
314
   
314
   
-
   
0.0
%
Interchange fees
   
897
   
791
   
106
   
13.4
%
Bank owned life insurance earnings
   
861
   
840
   
21
   
2.5
%
Other
   
(138
)
 
412
   
(550
)
 
-133.5
%
   
$
6,926
 
$
8,005
 
$
(1,079
)
 
-13.5
%

Services charges and fees, which are earned primarily based on transaction services for deposit account customers, decreased as a result of decreased activity producing ATM and check card overdraft fees. With the introduction of a new deposit product scheduled for the first quarter of 2008, management expects non-interest income will increase moderately as this new product encourages point of sale electronic payments which should result in higher transactional fees from ATM providers; additionally management expects growth will continue through expanded products and services in existing markets and new branches opened in the fourth quarter of 2006 and the first quarter of 2007.

The net loss on available for sale securities for the year ended December 31, 2007, was due to restructuring of the securities portfolio.
 
65

 
Other non-interest income for the year ended December 31, 2007 included a loss of $345,000 resulting from the early termination of an interest rate swap agreement.

Non-interest expense. The components of non-interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 were as follows:
 
 
 
 
 
Increase (decrease)
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
Dollars
 
Percentage
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
                   
Compensation & benefits
 
$
12,391
 
$
10,947
 
$
1,444
   
13.2
%
Occupancy and equipment
   
2,383
   
2,228
   
155
   
7.0
%
Data processing
   
1,136
   
1,483
   
(347
)
 
-23.4
%
Advertising
   
584
   
847
   
(263
)
 
-31.1
%
Outside professional services
   
4,066
   
1,994
   
2,072
   
103.9
%
Interchange charges
   
422
   
491
   
(69
)
 
-14.1
%
Collection expense and repossessed
                         
asset losses
   
301
   
267
   
34
   
12.7
%
Telephone
   
501
   
500
   
1
   
0.2
%
Other
   
3,667
   
2,922
   
745
   
25.5
%
                           
   
$
25,451
 
$
21,679
 
$
3,772
   
17.4
%


Compensation and benefit expense for the year ended December 31, 2007, as compared to 2006, was primarily due to increased salaries of $1.3 million related to organizational changes, branch expansion, executive additions, increased stock based compensation awards and retirement benefits, and normal annual merit increases. Occupancy and equipment charges increased for the year ended December 31, 2007 as compared to 2006, primarily due to increased depreciation expense. The decreased data processing costs for the year ended December 31, 2007, as compared to 2006, were primarily due to reduced costs for vendor software licensing as a result of negotiations on a new contract completed during the third quarter of 2006, as well as lower depreciation expense. Advertising expenses for 2007 decreased compared to 2006, as the Company was less active in marketing through print and television advertisements. Outside and professional services cost increased for the year ended December 31, 2007 as compared to 2006, as the Company incurred significant expenses associated with costs incurred as a result of the terminated Second-Step Conversion offering in 2007 that were not incurred in 2006.

In general, management expects non-interest expenses will increase in future periods as a result of continued growth, expansion, and the costs associated with the Company’s operation as a public company.

Income tax expense. Income tax expense decreased to $130,000 for the year ended December 31, 2007, from $2.4 million for 2006. Income tax expense decreased in 2007 as compared to 2006 due to a decrease in income before income tax expense when comparing the two periods. The effective income tax rate on income before income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2007 was 10.4%, compared to 31.7% for 2006. The decline in the effective tax rate was primarily due to a higher proportion of income derived from bank owned life insurance, which is not taxable for federal income tax purposes. It is anticipated that income tax expense will continue to vary as income before income taxes varies.
 
66

 
Comparison of Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2006 and 2005.

General. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2006, was $5.1 million, an increase of $104,000 over the year ended December 31, 2005. Net interest income increased 7.7%, or $1.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2006 to $21.7 million, compared to $20.2 million for 2005, due to growth in interest-earning assets combined with an increase in the interest yield on such assets that offset the rising cost of deposits. The provision for loan losses decreased 77.6%, or $1.6 million to $475,000 for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to $2.1 million in 2005, on the basis of improved credit quality. Non-interest income for the year ended December 31, 2006 grew by 0.9% to $8.0 million, as compared to $7.9 million in 2005, due primarily to increased service charges and fees. The slight increase in non-interest income was offset by increased non-interest expense, which grew $2.1 million, or 10.5%, to $21.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2006, from $19.6 million in 2005, due to increased compensation and benefit costs and other operating costs.

Interest income. The increase in interest income for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005, was largely due to the rate earned on interest-earning assets, although growth in the average balance of outstanding interest-earning assets also contributed to such growth. Loans accounted for approximately 81% of the interest income growth, or $7.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005. While the majority of the increased interest income from loans was due to increased average outstanding balances, we also increased our yield on average outstanding loan balances as a result of growth in prime interest rate-based loans. As discussed above in “―Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2006 and December 31, 2005―Loans,” the inverted yield curve over the 12 months ended December 31, 2006 and a softening in residential real estate sales led us to increase our emphasis on prime rate interest-based loans, such as home equity one- to four-family lending, construction loans and commercial real estate loans. The growth in the average outstanding balances of home equity one- to four-family loans, construction loans and commercial real estate loans for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005, accounted for approximately 76%, or $49.1 million of the total $64.3 million in average loan growth. During the same period, the average prime rate increased 100 basis points from 7.25% to 8.25%. The growth in interest income from investment securities and other interest-earning assets for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005 was due to increased yields on these assets, which have tracked upward consistent with increases in short-term interest rates. Growth in interest-earning assets is partly dependent on funding from deposit growth in existing markets and the opening of new branches in the second-half of 2006. Interest income could be adversely impacted by continued low interest rates on longer-term loans, such as one- to four-family residential loans and the availability of the type of interest-earning assets desired for investment.

Interest expense. The increase in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005, was partially due to growth in the average outstanding balances of interest-bearing deposit accounts, but more significantly due to increases to interest rates paid on those accounts. During the period of time from the end of 2005, until the end of 2006, the Federal Reserve Board increased the target rate for Federal Funds borrowings by 100 basis points, from 4.25% to 5.25%. In general, this led to significant rate increases for interest-bearing deposit accounts in our markets, where competition for deposits among financial institutions is intense. In order to fund loan growth and maintain deposit market share, we have increased interest rates on our money-market accounts, interest-bearing demand accounts and time deposits. The rate of interest expense on Federal Home Loan Bank advances remained relatively flat for the year ended December 31, 2006 as compared to 2005, as new advances have generally had longer maturities and, therefore, we benefited from the flat or inverted yield curve.

67

 
Net interest income. Net interest income increased during the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005, as the growth in interest income outpaced the growth in interest expense. As discussed above, in addition to steady growth in average outstanding balances increases in prime rate based loans, in part, enabled us to increase the overall yield of the loan portfolio. In addition yields on securities increased as short-term interest rates tracked upward. Net interest rate spread, which is the difference between the interest yield earned on interest-earning assets and the interest rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities, decreased seven basis points for the year ended December 31, 2006 as compared to 2005. For the same comparative years, net interest margin, which is net interest income expressed as a percentage of average interest-earning assets decreased seven basis points.

While the net interest rate spread and net interest margin held up reasonably well, declining only seven basis points for the year, we experienced significant margin compression during the fourth quarter of 2006. During this period, deposit growth of $27 million significantly outpaced loan growth of $15 million. Further, the deposit growth occurred in the highest tiers of our money market account and time deposits. This deposit growth in the most expensive deposit products during a period when loan growth did not keep pace led to a net interest margin decline of 21 basis points to 2.85% in the fourth quarter of 2006 as compared to the third quarter of 2006.

Provision for loan losses. We establish the provision for loan losses, which are charged to operations, at a level required to reflect probable incurred credit losses in the loan portfolio. In evaluating the level of the allowance for loan losses, management considers historical loss experience, the types of loans and the amount of loans in the loan portfolio, the source of origination of those loans, adverse situations that may affect borrowers’ ability to repay, estimated value of any underlying collateral, and prevailing economic conditions. Large groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans, such as residential real estate, small commercial real estate, home equity and consumer loans, are evaluated in the aggregate using historical loss factors adjusted for current economic conditions, source of loan origination, and other relevant data. Larger non-homogeneous loans, such as commercial loans for which management has concerns about the borrowers’ ability to repay, are evaluated individually, and specific allowance allocations are provided for such loans when necessary.

Based on management’s evaluation of these factors, provisions of $475,000 and $2.1 million were made during the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively. The decrease in the provision for loan losses was primarily due to a decline in specific reserves for large non-homogenous loans as a result of improved credit quality and a decrease in net-charge offs. For the year ended December 31, 2006 net charge-offs were $357,000, while for 2005, net charge-offs were $1.5 million.

Management assesses the allowance for loan losses on a quarterly basis and makes provisions for loan losses as necessary in order to maintain the allowance for loan losses based on all known and inherent losses that are both probable and can be reasonably estimated. While management uses available information to recognize losses on loans, future loan loss provisions may necessarily be based on changes in economic conditions and changes in borrower situations. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the allowance for loan losses and may require additional provisions based on their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examination. The allowance for loan losses as of December 31, 2006, was maintained at a level that represents management’s best estimate of probable incurred losses in the loan portfolio.

68

 
Non-interest income. The components of non-interest income for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 were as follows:
 
 
 
For the year ended December 31,
 
Increase(decrease)
 
 
 
2006
 
2005
 
Dollars
 
Percentage
 
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Service charges and fees
 
$
5,745
 
$
5,351
 
$
394
   
7.4
%
Gain on sale of real estate mortgages
                         
held for sale
   
67
   
121
   
(54
)
 
-44.6
%
Gain(loss) on sale of foreclosed assets
   
(1
)
 
41
   
(42
)
 
-102.4
%
Gain(loss) on sale of securities
                         
available for sale
   
(163
)
 
(80
)
 
(83
)
 
-103.8
%
Commission income
   
314
   
406
   
(92
)
 
-22.7
%
Interchange fees
   
791
   
752
   
39
   
5.2
%
Bank owned life insurance earnings
   
840
   
603
   
237
   
39.3
%
Other
   
412
   
743
   
(331
)
 
-44.5
%
   
$
8,005
 
$
7,937
 
$
68
   
0.9
%

Services charges and fees, which are earned primarily based on transaction services for deposit account customers, increased as a result of increased ATM and check card overdraft fees which began in the third quarter of 2005. The implementation of overdraft fees for ATM and check card overdrafts was part of several fee initiatives started in 2005, which focused on improving our discipline over service charge fees and collections. New growth of non-interest income will principally result from expanded products and services in existing markets and new branches opened in the fourth quarter of 2006 and the first quarter of 2007.

The net loss on available for sale securities for the year ended December 31, 2006, was due to the recognition of an impairment loss on certain Federal Home Loan Bank debt securities held at the end of the first quarter of 2006 for $177,000. The impairment loss was estimated based on the difference between the original cost of the securities and their estimated fair value as of March 31, 2006. The securities were sold during the second quarter for an actual loss of $163,000 and the loss recorded at the time the securities were identified for disposal was adjusted to the actual loss at the time of the sale. The securities disposed of had an original purchase cost of $16.0 million and a weighted average yield of 3.84%. They were identified for disposal in an effort to improve our net interest margin. During the second quarter of 2006 we purchased a similar amount of securities with a weighted average interest rate of 5.77%. 
 
    The growth in bank owned life insurance earnings for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005, was due to an increase in the average amount invested from $14.9 million in 2005 to $20.9 million in 2006.
 
69

Other non-interest income for the year ended December 31, 2006 included a $10,000 decrease to the fair market value of outstanding interest rate swap agreements. During 2004, as part of our asset and liability management strategy, we entered into two interest rate swap agreements with a combined notional amount totaling $10.0 million and $15.0 million at December 31, 2006 and 2005, respectively, to economically hedge, although not an accounting hedge, the risk of changing interest rates associated with certain floating rate Federal Home Loan Bank advances. During the second quarter of 2006, we terminated, prior to its contractual maturity, one of the outstanding interest rate swap agreements having a $5.0 million notional value and repaid, without penalty, the associated Federal Home Loan Bank advance that the interest rate swap was economically hedging. In addition, during the third quarter of 2005, we entered into two interest rate swap agreements with a combined notional amount of $10.0 million, $5.0 million of which matured in the third quarter of 2006, to economically hedge, although not an accounting hedge, the variable portion of the home equity portfolio against the possibility of declining interest rates. At December 31, 2006 and 2005, the fair market value of the outstanding interest rate swap agreements was $637,000 and $647,000, respectively. 

Non-interest expense. The components of non-interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 were as follows:

   
For the years ended December 31,
 
Increase(decrease)
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
Dollars
 
Percentage
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Compensation and benefits
 
$
10,947
 
$
9,368
 
$
1,579
   
16.9
%
Occupancy and equipment
   
2,228
   
1,738
   
490
   
28.2
%
Data processing
   
1,483
   
1,348
   
135
   
10.0
%
Advertising
   
847
   
609
   
238
   
39.1
%
Outside professional services
   
1,994
   
2,286
   
(292
)
 
-12.8
%
Interchange charges
   
491
   
624
   
(133
)
 
-21.3
%
Collection expense and repossessed
                         
asset losses
   
267
   
341
   
(74
)
 
-21.7
%
Telephone
   
500
   
539
   
(39
)
 
-7.2
%
Other
   
2,922
   
2,763
   
159
   
5.8
%
   
$
21,679
 
$
19,616
 
$
2,063
   
10.5
%

Compensation and benefit expense for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005, was primarily due to increased salaries of $487,000, as well as a $355,000 increase in the recognition of compensation expense for awards made under our stock-based compensation plans reflecting the full year cost of the awards made in July 2005. The remaining increase to compensation and benefit expense was primarily due to increased costs of $524,000 associated with our retirement plan for certain officers and directors. Normal annual merit increases for associates account for a portion of the increase, along with additional associates for sales and service of private banking customers in Florida and new branch personnel hired in advance of the Julington Creek branch opening in October 2006. Occupancy and equipment charges increased for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005, primarily due to increased building and equipment maintenance costs, including the refurbishment costs at two branches during the third quarter of 2006, along with higher real estate tax expenses. The increased data processing costs for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005, were primarily due to increased software licensing costs for our operating system, the fees for which are based partly on our asset size. In the third quarter of 2006, we completed negotiations on a new contract for software licensing with terms that will result in reduced data processing costs. Advertising expenses for 2006 increased compared to 2005, as we have been more active in marketing through print and television advertisements. Outside and professional services cost decreased for the year ended December 31, 2006, as compared to 2005, as we incurred significant fees associated with Sarbanes-Oxley initiatives and tax planning initiatives in 2005 that were not incurred in 2006.
 
70


In general, management expects non-interest expenses will increase in future periods as a result of continued growth, expansion, and the costs associated with our operation as a public company.
 
Income tax expense. Income tax expense increased to $2.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2006, from $1.3 million for 2005. The increase was primarily due to the elimination of a tax-related contingent liability in the third quarter of 2005 of $895,000. The contingent liability had been established in 2000 upon becoming a taxable entity and reflected the tax effect of a tax accounting method utilized by us in 2000 and 2001 calendar tax years. We believed the filing position was supportable based upon a reasonable interpretation of federal income tax laws and the underlying regulations. However, due to the lack of prior rulings on similar fact patterns, it was unknown whether the accounting method would be sustained upon audit by either federal or state tax authorities. The applicable statute of limitations expired with respect to the 2001 tax year on September 15, 2005, making the contingency reserve unnecessary. In addition income tax expense increased in 2006 as compared to 2005 due to an increase in income before income tax expense. The effective income tax rate on income before income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2006 was 31.7%, compared to 34.6% for 2005 before the tax benefit of $895,000. The decline in the effective tax rate was primarily due to increased income from bank owned life insurance, which is not taxable for federal income tax purposes.

Liquidity

Management maintains a liquidity position that it believes will adequately provide funding for loan demand and deposit run-off that may occur in the normal course of business. Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation relies on a number of different sources in order to meet its potential liquidity demands. The primary sources are increases in deposit accounts and cash flows from loan payments and the securities portfolio.

In addition to these primary sources of funds, management has several secondary sources available to meet potential funding requirements. As of December 31, 2007, and December 31, 2006 the Company had additional borrowing capacity of $102 million and $106 million, respectively, with the FHLB of Atlanta. Additionally, the Company had existing lines of credit available in excess of $22 million with other financial institutions. The Company has classified its entire securities portfolio as available for sale, providing an additional source of liquidity. Management believes that Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s security portfolio is of investment grade quality and the securities would therefore be marketable. The Company also can utilize brokers to obtain certificates of deposits at costs and terms that are comparable to certificate of deposits originated in its branch network. As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Company had $34.4 million and $39.4 million of certificates of deposits obtained through brokers that were purchased to replace maturing branch originated certificates of deposits or to help meet loan demands. As of December 31, 2007 and 2006 these certificates of deposits had a weighted average maturity of 37.3 months and 20.0 months, and a weighted average rate of 4.75% and 4.56%, respectively. In addition, the Company has historically sold mortgage loans in the secondary market to reduce interest rate risk and to create an additional source of liquidity.

71


During 2007, cash and cash equivalents decreased $11.8 million from $41.1 million as of December 31, 2006, to $29.3 million as of December 31, 2007. Cash from operating activities of $8.7 million, combined with cash from financing activities of $83.8 million, was less than cash used for investing activities of $104.3 million. Primary sources of cash were from net increases in deposit accounts of $9.7 million, FHLB borrowings of $95.0 million, proceeds from sale of securities under agreements to repurchase of $49.5 million, proceeds from maturities and payments of available-for-sale securities of $18.7 million and proceeds from sales of securities available-for-sale of $14.6 million. The additional borrowings from the FHLB were used to replace maturing FHLB debt of $66.0 million and fund loan growth. Primary uses of cash included purchases of available-for-sale securities of $67.9 million, purchase of loans to be held in portfolio of $51.4 million and origination of loans to be held in portfolio of $17.6 million. In addition, during 2007, the Company used cash of $2.0 million to purchase shares of its common stock to be held as treasury stock and paid quarterly cash dividends of $2.5 million to common stockholders. (See Capital Resources below.)

During 2006, cash and cash equivalents increased $3.1 million from $38.0 million as of December 31, 2005, to $41.1 million as of December 31, 2006. Cash from operating activities of $3.1 million, combined with cash from financing activities of $92.0 million, exceeded cash used for investing activities of $92.1 million. Primary sources of cash were from net increases in deposit accounts of $56.7 million, FHLB borrowings of $40.0 million, proceeds from sale of securities under agreements to repurchase of $29.0 million, proceeds from maturities and payments of available-for-sale securities of $17.8 million and proceeds from sales of securities available-for-sale of $16.7 million. Approximately $58.0 million of the increase in deposits came from savings and money market growth in 2006, as compared to 2005, the majority of which matures in less than 12 months. The additional borrowings from the FHLB were used to replace maturing FHLB debt of $25.0 million and fund loan growth. Primary uses of cash included purchases of available-for-sale securities of $61.6 million, purchase of loans to be held in portfolio of $36.0 million and origination of loans to be held in portfolio of $24.8 million. In addition, during 2006, the Company used cash of $6.9 million to purchase shares of its common stock to be held as treasury stock and paid quarterly cash dividends of $1.9 million to common stockholders. (See Capital Resources below.)

As of December 31, 2007, management is not aware of any current recommendations by regulatory authorities, which, if they were implemented, would have or reasonably likely to have a material adverse affect on the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s liquidity, capital resources or operations.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

The following table presents Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s longer-term, non-deposit related, contractual obligations, commitments to extend credit to borrowers and purchase commitments, in aggregate and by payment due dates.

72


   
December 31, 2007
 
   
Less Than
1 Year
 
1 Through
3 Years
 
4 Through
5 Years
 
More Than
5 Years
 
Total
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
FHLB advances
 
$
3,000
 
$
35,000
 
$
-
 
$
135,000
 
$
173,000
 
Operating leases (premises)
   
351
   
361
   
252
   
2,452
   
3,416
 
Borrowings and operating leases
   
3,351
   
35,361
   
252
   
137,452
   
176,416
 
                                 
Undisbursed portion of loans closed
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
15,386
 
Unused lines of credit
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
88,165
 
Total loan commitments
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
103,351
 
Loan purchase commitment
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Security purchase commitment
   
78,500
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
78,500
 
Total purchase commitments
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Total contractual obligations And loan commitments
 
$
81,851
 
$
35,361
 
$
252
 
$
137,452
 
$
358,267
 

Capital Resources

At December 31, 2007, equity totaled $89.8 million. During 2007 the Company’s Board of Directors declared regular quarterly dividends totaling $0.57 per common share that were paid with the proceeds of maturities and payments of available-for-sale securities. Net of dividends waived by the MHC for its owned shares in the amount of $5.0 million, the Company’s equity was reduced $2.6 million in 2007 for dividends declared. The Company expects for the near term, that the MHC will continue to waive receipt of its dividends. The decision to pay dividends in the future is dependent on operating results, capital and liquidity requirements, however the Company expects to continue dividend payments in 2008.
 
Equity in 2007 was also impacted by common stock repurchase programs. As of December 31, 2007 the Company held as Treasury stock 1,131,867 shares of common stock at an average per share cost of $15.79, or $17.9 million. The Company conducted one stock repurchase program during 2007. As of the end of 2007 execution of the repurchase program had resulted in the purchase of approximately 295,000 shares of a planned total purchase of 478,000 shares. Management expects to complete purchase of the approximate 183,000 remaining shares during 2008. Initiation of future share repurchase programs is dependent on liquidity, opportunities for alternative investments and capital requirements.

Management monitors the capital levels of Atlantic Coast Bank to provide for current and future business opportunities and to meet regulatory guidelines for “well capitalized” institutions. Atlantic Coast Bank is required by the OTS to meet minimum capital adequacy requirements. Atlantic Coast Bank’s actual and required levels of capital as reported to the OTS at December 31, 2007, are as follows:

73


   
Actual
 
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
 
To Be Well
Capitalized Under
Prompt Corrective
Action Provisions
 
   
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
   
(Dollars in Millions)
 
As of December 31, 2007
                         
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)
 
$
75.5
   
12.1
%
$
50.1
   
8.0
%
$
62.6
   
10.0
%
Tier 1 (core) capital (to risk-weighted assets)
 
$
70.4
   
11.2
%
$
25.1
   
4.0
%
$
37.6
   
6.0
%
 
$
70.4
   
7.7
%
$
36.8
   
4.0
%
$
46.0
   
5.0
%

At December 31, 2007, Atlantic Coast Bank exceeded all regulatory minimum capital requirements and is considered to be “well capitalized.” In addition, as of December 31, 2007, management was not aware of any recommendation by a regulatory authority that, if it were implemented, would have a material effect on liquidity, capital resources or operations.

Under regulations of the OTS, limitations have been imposed on all “capital distributions” by savings institutions, including cash dividends. See Business- “How We Are Regulated-Limitations on Dividends and Capital Distributions.” During 2008 Atlantic Coast Bank can not declare any dividends without prior approval.

Inflation

The effects of price changes and inflation can vary substantially for most financial institutions. While management believes that inflation affects the growth of total assets and the Company’s profitability, it believes that it is difficult to assess the overall impact. Management believes this to be the case due to the fact that generally neither the timing nor the magnitude of inflationary changes in the consumer price index (“CPI”) coincides with changes in interest rates. The price of one or more components of the CPI may fluctuate considerably and thereby influence the overall CPI without having corresponding affect on interest rates or upon the cost of those goods and services normally purchased by Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation. In years of high inflation and high interest rates, intermediate and long-term interest rates tend to increase, thereby adversely impacting the market values of investment securities, mortgage loans and other long-term fixed rate loans. In addition, higher short-term interest rates caused by inflation tend to increase the cost of funds. In other years, the opposite may occur.

Future Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recently issued or proposed accounting pronouncements.

74


Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Interest rate risk is one of the most significant market risks affecting us. Interest rate risk is the possibility that changes in interest rates will negatively impact net income or the value of interest-rate sensitive assets, liabilities and commitments. As such, we are subject to interest rate risk to the extent that our interest-bearing liabilities, primarily deposits and Federal Home Loan Bank advances, re-price more rapidly or at different rates than our interest-earning assets.
In an effort to manage our exposure to interest rate risk, our Board of Directors has adopted an asset and liability management policy that is implemented by the Asset/Liability Committee. The objective of the committee is to coordinate, control and communicate asset/liability management consistent with our business plan and board approved policies. The committee establishes and monitors the volume and mix of assets and funding sources taking into account relative costs and spreads, interest rate sensitivity and cash flow requirements in an effort to produce results that are consistent with our liquidity, capital adequacy, growth, risk and profitability goals.

The committee generally meets on a quarterly basis to review, among other things, economic conditions and interest rate outlook, current and projected liquidity needs and capital position, anticipated changes in the volume and mix of assets and liabilities and interest rate exposure limits versus current projections pursuant to market value of portfolio equity analysis and income simulations. The committee recommends appropriate strategy changes based on this review. The committee is responsible for reviewing and reporting the effects of the policy implementations and strategies to the Board of Directors at least quarterly.

A key element of our asset/liability management plan is to protect net earnings by managing the maturity or re-pricing mismatch between our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. We have sought to reduce exposure to our earnings through the use of adjustable rate loans and by extending funding maturities through the use of Federal Home Loan Bank advances.

In an effort to monitor and manage interest rate risk, we use financial modeling techniques that estimate the impact of different interest rate scenarios on the value of our equity. Referred to as Economic Value of Equity (“EVE”), this methodology measures the changes in equity due to the impact on net interest margin, over a five-year horizon, from instantaneous and sustained parallel shifts in the yield curve, in 100 basis point increments, up and down 300 basis points. Management believes the EVE methodology improves the visibility of the effect of current interest rate risk on future earnings under increasing or decreasing interest rate environments, thus allowing for proactive management of balance sheet growth within a meaningful time horizon.

75


The table presented below, as of December 31, 2007, is an analysis of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s interest rate risk as measured by changes in EVE for instantaneous and sustained parallel shifts in the yield curve, in 100 basis point increments, up and down 300 basis points. Also presented, for comparative purposes, is the EVE as of December 31, 2006 considering the same interest rate changes.
 
   
Economic Value of Equity and Duration of Assets and Liabilities at December 31, 2007
Change in Interest Rate
 
   
Decrease
 3%
 
Decrease
2%
 
Decrease
1%
 
Increase
1%
 
Increase
2%
 
Increase
3%
 
Duration of assets(1)
   
3.01
   
2.75
   
2.39
   
2.37
   
2.42
   
2.42
 
Duration of liabilities(1)
   
2.63
   
2.63
   
2.25
   
2.40
   
2.40
   
2.40
 
Differential in duration
   
0.38
   
0.12
   
0.14
   
-0.03
   
0.02
   
0.02
 
                                       
Amount of change in Economic Value of Equity(2)
 
$
10,821,617
 
$
2,325,071
 
$
1,313,041
 
$
315,870
 
$
(387,439
)
$
(581,159
)
Percentage change in Economic Value of Equity(2)
   
11.24
%
 
2.41
%
 
1.36
%
 
0.33
%
 
-0.40
%
 
-0.60
%


   
Economic Value of Equity and Duration of Assets and Liabilities at December 31, 2006
Change in Interest Rate
 
   
Decrease
3%
 
Decrease
2%
 
Decrease
1%
 
Increase
1%
 
Increase
2%
 
Increase
3%
 
Duration of assets(1)
   
2.53
   
2.53
   
2.58
   
2.74
   
2.79
   
2.79
 
Duration of liabilities(1)
   
2.52
   
2.52
   
2.52
   
2.41
   
2.41
   
2.41
 
Differential in duration
   
0.01
   
0.01
   
0.06
   
0.33
   
0.38
   
0.38
 
                                       
Amount of change in Economic Value of Equity(2)
 
$
87,636
 
$
175,272
 
$
476,404
 
$
(2,804,847
)
$
(6,346,360
)
$
(9,519,541
)
Percentage change in Economic Value of Equity(2)
   
0.09
%
 
0.18
%
 
0.50
%
 
-2.93
%
 
-6.63
%
 
-9.94
%

(1)
Expressed as number of years before asset/liability reprices to achieve stated rate of interest rate increase
(2)
Represents the cumulative five year pre-tax impact on the Company's equity due to increased or (decreased) net interest margin

The December 31, 2007 table above indicates that, under any of the interest rate change scenarios presented, Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation has a positive differential in duration, other than a decrease in interest rates of 1%. Essentially, this means that the time it takes for the Company’s assets to re-price for the assumed interest rate changes exceeds the time it takes for the liabilities to re-price for the same interest rate changes. Accordingly, the Company is considered liability sensitive, although less so in an increasing interest rate environment. For instantaneous increases in interest rates of 1%, 2% or 3%, the Company’s equity is estimated to increase (decrease) in value by $300,000, $(400,000) and $(600,000), respectively. Conversely, for the assumed instantaneous interest rate decreases of 1%, 2% or 3%, the Company’s equity is estimated to increase $1.3 million, $2.3 million and $10.8 million.

Comparing the December 31, 2007 table to the December 31, 2006 table, during 2007 the Company became less sensitive to interest rate changes in scenarios with increasing interest rates, but more sensitive to interest rate changes in scenarios with decreasing interest rates. This was the result of efforts on both sides of the balance sheet in anticipation of the Second-Step Conversion, which if completed, would have resulted in a significant shortening of asset duration. Longer-term single family mortgages were de-emphasized in favor of prime rate based loans, and retail sales efforts were focused on money market deposits rather than time deposits, resulting in a better matching of re-pricing timelines which in turn shortened the asset duration differential in an increasing rate scenario, while increasing the asset duration differential in decreasing interest rate scenarios of more than 1%. Additionally, Federal Home Loan Bank advances and other borrowings were executed with longer terms, in an effort to manage asset and liability maturities, which held the Company’s sensitivity to interest rate changes relatively constant in terms of liability duration. The end result of these changes was to move the Company to a more interest rate neutral balance sheet in an increasing interest scenario, but slightly more liability sensitive in a decreasing interest rate scenario.

76


In managing its asset/liability mix, the Company, depending on the relationship between long and short-term interest rates, market conditions and consumer preference, may place somewhat greater emphasis on maximizing its net interest margin than on strictly matching the interest rate sensitivity of its assets and liabilities. Management believes that the increased net income which may result from an acceptable mismatch in the actual maturity or re-pricing of its asset and liability portfolios can, during periods of declining or stable interest rates, provide sufficient returns to justify the increased exposure to sudden and unexpected increases in interest rates which may result from such a mismatch. Management believes that Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s level of interest rate risk is acceptable under this approach.

In evaluating Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s exposure to interest rate movements, certain shortcomings inherent in the method of analysis presented in the foregoing tables must be considered. For example, although certain assets and liabilities may have similar maturities or re-pricing periods, they may react in different degrees to changes in market interest rates. Also, the interest rates on certain types of assets and liabilities may fluctuate in advance of changes in market interest rates, while interest rates on other types may lag behind changes in interest rates. Additionally, certain assets, such as adjustable-rate mortgages (ARM’s), have features that restrict changes in interest rates on a short term basis and over the life of the asset. Further, in the event of a significant change in interest rates, prepayment and early withdrawal levels would likely deviate significantly from those assumed above. Finally, the ability of many borrowers to service their debt may decrease in the event of an interest rate increase. Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation considers all of these factors in monitoring its exposure to interest rate risk.

Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s investment strategy is to maintain a diversified portfolio of high quality investments that balances the goals of minimizing interest rate and credit risks while striving to maximize investment return and provide the liquidity necessary to meet funding needs.

77


Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Stockholders and Board of Directors
Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation
Waycross, Georgia


We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation ("Corporation") as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Corporation's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall consolidated financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
 
Crowe Chizek and Company LLC

Brentwood, Tennessee
March 21, 2008
 
78

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 2007 and 2006
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Share Information)


   
2007
 
2006
 
ASSETS
         
Cash and due from financial institutions
 
$
4,726
 
$
10,571
 
Short-term interest bearing deposits
   
24,584
   
30,486
 
Total cash and cash equivalents
   
29,310
   
41,057
 
Other interest bearing deposits in other financial institutions
   
-
   
1,200
 
Securities available for sale
   
134,216
   
99,231
 
Real estate mortgages held for sale
   
640
   
4,365
 
Loans, net of allowance of $6,482 in 2007 and $4,705 in 2006
   
703,513
   
639,517
 
Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost
   
9,293
   
7,948
 
Accrued interest receivable
   
4,080
   
3,499
 
Land, premises and equipment, net
   
16,973
   
17,610
 
Bank owned life insurance
   
22,227
   
21,366
 
Other real estate owned
   
1,726
   
286
 
Goodwill
   
2,661
   
2,661
 
Other assets
   
6,387
   
4,339
 
               
Total assets
 
$
931,026
 
$
843,079
 
               
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
             
Deposits
             
Non-interest-bearing demand
 
$
35,284
 
$
38,301
 
Interest-bearing demand
   
45,893
   
52,895
 
Savings and money market
   
184,899
   
158,229
 
Time
   
316,654
   
323,627
 
Total deposits
   
582,730
   
573,052
 
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
   
78,500
   
29,000
 
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
   
173,000
   
144,000
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
6,990
   
5,940
 
Total liabilities
   
841,220
   
751,992
 
               
Commitments and contingencies
   
-
   
-
 
               
Preferred stock: $0.01 par value; 2,000,000 shares authorized
             
none issued
   
-
   
-
 
Common stock: $0.01 par value; 18,000,000 shares authorized,
             
shares issued 14,813,469 at December, 31 2007 and 2006
   
148
   
148
 
Additional paid in capital
   
59,082
   
57,708
 
Unearned employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) shares of 279,312 at December 31, 2007 and 325,864 at December 31, 2006
   
(2,793
)
 
(3,259
)
Retained earnings
   
51,182
   
52,711
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
   
104
   
(204
)
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,131,867 shares at December 31, 2007  and 1,029,139 at December 31, 2006
   
(17,917
)
 
(16,017
)
Total stockholders' equity
   
89,806
   
91,087
 
               
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
931,026
 
$
843,079
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

79


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Share Information)

   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
Interest and dividend income
             
Loans, including fees
 
$
46,331
 
$
41,029
 
$
33,606
 
Securities and interest-bearing deposits
                   
in other financial institutions - taxable
   
8,973
   
5,308
   
3,403
 
Securities and interest-bearing deposits
                   
in other financial institutions - tax exempt
   
205
   
70
   
173
 
Securities purchased under agreements to resell
   
-
   
-
   
72
 
Total interest and dividend income
   
55,509
   
46,407
   
37,254
 
                     
Interest expense
                   
Deposits
   
23,795
   
18,448
   
12,168
 
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
   
6,653
   
5,665
   
4,971
 
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
   
2,675
   
634
   
-
 
Total interest expense
   
33,123
   
24,747
   
17,139
 
                     
Net interest income
   
22,386
   
21,660
   
20,115
 
                     
Provision for loan losses
   
2,616
   
475
   
2,121
 
                     
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
   
19,770
   
21,185
   
17,994
 
                     
Noninterest income
                   
Service charges and fees
   
5,251
   
5,745
   
5,351
 
Gain on sale of real estate mortgages held for sale
   
34
   
67
   
121
 
Gain (loss) on sale of foreclosed assets
   
(247
)
 
(1
)
 
41
 
Loss on sale of securities available for sale
   
(46
)
 
(163
)
 
(80
)
Commission income
   
314
   
314
   
406
 
Interchange fees
   
897
   
791
   
752
 
Bank owned life insurance earnings
   
861
   
840
   
603
 
Other
   
(138
)
 
412
   
743
 
     
6,926
   
8,005
   
7,937
 
Noninterest expense
                   
Compensation and benefits
   
12,391
   
10,947
   
9,369
 
Occupancy and equipment
   
2,383
   
2,228
   
1,738
 
Data processing
   
1,136
   
1,483
   
1,348
 
Advertising
   
584
   
847
   
609
 
Outside professional services
   
4,066
   
1,994
   
2,286
 
Interchange charges
   
422
   
491
   
624
 
Collection expense and repossessed asset losses
   
301
   
267
   
341
 
Telephone
   
501
   
500
   
539
 
Other
   
3,667
   
2,922
   
2,762
 
     
25,451
   
21,679
   
19,616
 
                     
Income before income tax expense
   
1,245
   
7,511
   
6,315
 
                     
Income tax expense
   
130
   
2,382
   
1,290
 
                     
Net income
 
$
1,115
 
$
5,129
 
$
5,025
 
 
                   
Earnings per common share:
                   
Basic
 
$
0.08
 
$
0.38
 
$
0.36
 
Diluted
 
$
0.08
 
$
0.38
 
$
0.36
 
                     
Dividends declared per common share
 
$
0.57
 
$
0.42
 
$
0.26
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
80

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Share Information) 


                   
ACCUMULATED
         
   
COMMON
STOCK
 
ADDITIONAL
PAID IN
CAPITAL
 
UNEARNED
ESOP
STOCK
 
RETAINED
EARNINGS
 
OTHER
COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME (LOSS)
 
TREASURY
STOCK
 
TOTAL
STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY
 
Balance at January 1, 2005
 
$
145
 
$
56,333
 
$
(4,190
)
$
46,512
 
$
(100
)
$
-
 
$
98,700
 
ESOP shares earned, 46,552 shares
   
-
   
147
   
466
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
613
 
Management restricted stock granted
   
3
   
(2
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
1
 
Management restricted stock expense, 25,989 shares
   
-
   
289
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
289
 
Stock options expense
   
-
   
109
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
109
 
Dividends declared ($0.26 per share)
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(1,908
)
 
-
   
-
   
(1,908
)
Treasury stock purchased at cost
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(9,603
)
 
(9,603
)
Comprehensive income:
                                           
Net income
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
5,025
   
-
   
-
   
5,025
 
Other comprehensive income (loss)
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(308
)
 
-
   
(308
)
Total comprehensive income
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
5,025
   
(308
)
 
-
   
4,717
 
Balance at December 31, 2005
   
148
   
56,876
   
(3,724
)
 
49,629
   
(408
)
 
(9,603
)
 
92,918
 
ESOP shares earned, 46,552 shares
   
-
   
290
   
465
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
755
 
Stock options exercised
   
-
   
(13
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
115
   
102
 
Management restricted stock granted
   
-
   
(348
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
348
   
-
 
Management restricted stock expense, 78,256 shares
   
-
   
595
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
595
 
Stock options expense
   
-
   
308
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
308
 
Cash dividends declared ($0.42 per share)
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(2,048
)
 
-
   
-
   
(2,048
)
Treasury stock purchased at cost
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(6,877
)
 
(6,877
)
Comprehensive income:
                                           
Net income
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
5,129
   
-
   
-
   
5,129
 
Other comprehensive income
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
204
   
-
   
204
 
Total comprehensive income
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
5,129
   
204
   
-
   
5,333
 
                                             
Balance at December 31, 2006
 
$
148
  
$
57,708
   
$
(3,259
)  
$
52,711
  
$
(204
)  
$
(16,017
)  
$
91,087
 
 
(continued)
81


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Share Information)

 
                   
ACCUMULATED
         
   
COMMON
STOCK
 
ADDITIONAL
PAID IN
CAPITAL
 
UNEARNED
ESOP
STOCK
 
RETAINED
EARNINGS
 
OTHER
COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME (LOSS)
 
TREASURY
STOCK
 
TOTAL
STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY
 
Balance at January 1, 2007
 
$
148
 
$
57,708
 
$
(3,259
)
$
52,711
 
$
(204
)
$
(16,017
)
$
91,087
 
ESOP shares earned, 46,552 shares
   
-
   
276
   
466
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
742
 
Stock options exercised
   
-
   
(8
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
65
   
57
 
Management restricted stock granted
   
-
   
(98
)
 
-
   
-
   
-
   
207
   
109
 
Management restricted stock expense, 78,256 shares
   
-
   
684
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
684
 
Stock options expense
   
-
   
332
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
332
 
Directors deferred compensation
   
-
   
49
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(49
)
 
-
 
Shares relinquished
   
-
   
139
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(155
)
 
(16
)
Cash dividends declared ($0.57 per share)
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(2,644
)
 
-
   
-
   
(2,644
)
Treasury stock purchased at cost
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(1,968
)
 
(1,968
)
Comprehensive income:
                                           
Net income
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
1,115
   
-
   
-
   
1,115
 
Other comprehensive income
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
308
   
-
   
308
 
Total comprehensive income
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
1,115
   
308
   
-
   
1,423
 
                                             
Balance at December 31, 2007
 
$
148
     
$
59,082
     
$
(2,793
)    
$
51,182
     
$
104
     
$
(17,917
)    
$
89,806
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
82



ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
(Dollars in Thousands)

 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
               
Cash flows from operating activities
             
Net income
 
$
1,115
 
$
5,129
 
$
5,025
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to to net cash from operating activities:
                   
Provision for loan losses
   
2,616
   
475
   
2,121
 
Gain on sale of real estate mortgages held for sale
   
(34
)
 
(67
)
 
(121
)
Loans originated for sale
   
(74,419
)
 
(37,931
)
 
(9,661
)
Proceeds from loan sales
   
78,178
   
33,733
   
9,762
 
(Gain) loss on sale of other real estate owned
   
247
   
1
   
(41
)
Loss on sale of securities available for sale
   
46
   
163
   
80
 
(Gain) loss on disposal of equipment
   
130
   
146
   
(81
)
ESOP compensation expense
   
742
   
755
   
613
 
Share-based compensation expense
   
1,109
   
903
   
398
 
Net depreciation and amortization
   
1,807
   
1,890
   
1,977
 
Net change in accrued interest receivable
   
(581
)
 
(777
)
 
(445
)
Increase in cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance
   
(861
)
 
(840
)
 
(603
)
Net change in other assets
   
(2,225
)
 
(392
)
 
(1,920
)
Net change in accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
915
   
(89
)
 
2,422
 
Net cash from operating activities
   
8,785
   
3,099
   
9,526
 
                     
Cash flows from investing activities
                   
Net change in securities purchased under agreements to resell
   
-
   
-
   
11,800
 
Proceeds from maturities and payments of securites available for sale
   
18,694
   
17,808
   
29,022
 
Proceeds from the sales of securities available for sale
   
14,619
   
16,657
   
10,130
 
Purchase of securities available for sale
   
(67,871
)
 
(61,642
)
 
(58,552
)
Loans purchased
   
(51,423
)
 
(35,977
)
 
(46,161
)
Net change in loans
   
(17,633
)
 
(24,768
)
 
(19,922
)
Expenditures on premises and equipment
   
(932
)
 
(4,478
)
 
(5,298
)
Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment
   
-
   
-
   
360
 
Proceeds from the sale of other real estate owned
   
401
   
612
   
581
 
Purchase of FHLB stock
   
(1,345
)
 
(874
)
 
(1,563
)
Purchase of bank owned life insurance
   
-
   
-
   
(15,000
)
Net change in other investments
   
1,200
   
600
   
(900
)
Net cash from investing activities
   
(104,290
)
 
(92,062
)
 
(95,503
)
 
(continued)
83


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
(Dollars in Thousands)

   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
               
Cash flows from financing activities
             
Net increase in deposits
 
$
9,678
 
$
56,731
 
$
80,639
 
FHLB advances
   
95,000
   
40,000
   
40,000
 
Proceeds from sale of securities under agreement to repurchase
   
49,500
   
29,000
   
-
 
Repayment of FHLB advances
   
(66,000
)
 
(25,000
)
 
(11,314
)
Treasury stock repurchased
   
(1,968
)
 
(6,877
)
 
(9,603
)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options, including tax benefit
   
57
   
102
   
-
 
Dividends paid
   
(2,509
)
 
(1,895
)
 
(1,494
)
Net cash from financing activities
   
83,758
   
92,061
   
98,228
 
                     
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
   
(11,747
)
 
3,098
   
12,251
 
                     
Cash and equivalents beginning of period
   
41,057
   
37,959
   
25,708
 
                     
Cash and equivalents at end of period
 
$
29,310
 
$
41,057
 
$
37,959
 
                     
Supplemental information:
                   
Interest paid
 
$
32,839
 
$
24,287
 
$
16,891
 
Income taxes paid
   
3,269
   
3,921
   
980
 
                     
Supplemental noncash disclosures:
                   
Loans transferred to other real estate
 
$
2,089
 
$
589
 
$
544
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
84


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 


NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations: The accompanying consolidated financial statements include Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiary, Atlantic Coast Bank ("Atlantic Coast Bank") together referred to as ("the Company"). Also included in the consolidated financial statements is Atlantic Coast Holdings, Inc (“Holdings”) a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlantic Coast Bank, formed for the purpose of managing and investing in certain securities as well as holding all of the common stock and 85% of the preferred stock of Coastal Properties, Inc., a Real Estate Investment Trust (the “REIT”). The REIT was formed in the fourth quarter of 2005, for the purpose of holding Georgia and Florida first lien residential mortgage loans originated by Atlantic Coast Bank. The REIT is permitted a deduction for Federal income tax purposes of all dividends paid to its shareholders. The consolidated financials also include First Community Financial Services, Inc. ("FCFS"), an inactive wholly owned subsidiary of Atlantic Coast Bank. All significant inter-company transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation. Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation is a majority owned (63.8%) subsidiary of Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC. These financial statements do not include the transactions and balances of Atlantic Coast Federal, MHC.

Atlantic Coast Bank provides a broad range of banking services to individual and corporate customers primarily in southern coastal Georgia and northern coastal Florida. Its primary deposit products are checking, savings, and term certificate accounts, and its primary lending products are residential mortgage, commercial, and installment loans. Substantially all loans are secured by specific items of collateral including business assets, consumer assets, and commercial and residential real estate. Commercial loans are generally expected to be repaid from the cash flows from the operations of the business. There are no significant concentrations of loans to any one industry or customer. However, the customers' ability to repay their loans is dependent on the real estate and general economic conditions in the area.

On May 30, 2002, Atlantic Coast Bank adopted a Plan of Reorganization into a three-tier mutual holding company. The Plan of Reorganization became effective on January 1, 2003. Following the reorganization, Atlantic Coast Bank became a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation ("the Stock Company"), which became a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlantic Coast Federal MHC ("the Mutual Company"). The transaction was accounted for at historical cost. The principal activity of the Stock Company is the ownership of Atlantic Coast Bank. The principal activity of the Mutual Company is the ownership of the Stock Company.

Execution of Minority Stock Offering: On March 12, 2004, and amended on May 11, 2004, the Board of Directors of the Stock Company adopted a plan of stock issuance to sell a minority interest of its common stock to eligible depositors of Atlantic Coast Bank and its employee stock ownership plan in a subscription offering, with the Mutual Company retaining ownership of the majority of the common stock. The plan was accomplished on October 4, 2004 through the sale to eligible depositors of 5,353,480 shares and to the employee stock ownership plan of 465,520 for a total of 5,819,000 total shares sold at $10 per share, representing 40% of the Stock Company's stock.

85


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

The issued shares resulted in proceeds of $56.3 million, net of conversion expenses of $1.9 million. With the proceeds the Stock Company loaned its employee stock ownership plan $4.7 million to enable it to buy 8% of the shares issued to persons other than the Mutual Company. The Stock Company also contributed $28.2 million, which is approximately 50% of the proceeds net of stock offering costs of $1.9 million, to Atlantic Coast Bank as a capital contribution. The balance of the net proceeds was retained as the Stock Company's initial capitalization and was invested in time deposits at Atlantic Coast Bank and investment securities. Since the date of the stock offering, the proceeds have been used for general business purposes including additional investment in securities, repurchasing shares of its common stock and paying dividends. In the future the Company intends to continue to use the funds raised from the stock offering for these same purposes as well as pursuing acquisitions. The funds received by Atlantic Coast Bank have been principally invested in short-term interest bearing deposits at financial institutions, investment securities, loan growth and for growth through expansion of the branch office network.

Stock Repurchase Program: During the third quarter of 2005, the Company initiated the first of two stock repurchase programs conducted during the year. The initial repurchase program, which began in August of 2005 and concluded on September 20, 2005, resulted in the purchase of 285,131 shares of common stock to replace the shares issued for the Retention Plan and provide for future awards. The second stock repurchase program, which began in October 2005 and concluded in August 2006, resulted in the purchase of 579,520 shares of common stock. The Company initiated the third stock repurchase program of up to 478,000 shares in September 2006, purchasing 189,516 shares. During 2007 the Company acquired an additional 105,838 shares of common stock outstanding. Total shares of common stock held in Treasury as of December 31, 2007 was 1,131,867 shares or 7.6% of total issued shares of common stock.

At December 31, 2007, the Mutual Company (the “MHC”) owned 63.8%, or 8,728,500 shares, of the outstanding common stock of the Stock Company, with the remaining 36.2%, or 4,953,102 shares held by persons other than the MHC and the Stock Company. The Stock Company holds 100% of Atlantic Coast Bank’s outstanding common stock.

Use of Estimates in Preparing Financial Statements: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period, as well as the disclosures provided. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates associated with the allowance for loan losses, realization of deferred tax assets, valuation of intangible assets including goodwill and the fair values of securities and other financial instruments are particularly susceptible to material change in the near term.
 
(Continued)
86


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Cash and Cash Equivalents: For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents is defined to include cash on hand, cash due from financial institutions and short-term interest-earning deposits in both financial institutions and other investment companies. The Company reports net cash flows for customer loan transactions, deposit transactions, other interest bearing deposits made with other financial institutions and securities purchased under agreements to resell.

Securities:  Securities are classified as held to maturity and carried at amortized cost when management has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Securities are classified as available for sale when they might be sold before maturity. Securities available for sale are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported separately in other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax.

Interest income includes amortization of purchase premium or discount. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized on the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments, except for mortgage backed securities where prepayments are anticipated. Gains and losses on sales of securities are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method.

Declines in the fair value of securities below their cost that are other than temporary are reflected as realized losses. In estimating other-than-temporary losses, management considers: (1) the length of time and extent that fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near term prospects of the issuer, and (3) the Company's ability and intent to hold the security for a period sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value.

Real Estate Mortgages Held for Sale: The Bank originates real estate mortgages for sale in the secondary market. Real estate mortgages held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or market in the aggregate with adjustments for unrealized losses recorded in a valuation account by a charge against current earnings. Sales in the secondary market are recognized when full acceptance and funding has been received. Loans are generally sold servicing released.

Loans: Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold until maturity or payoff are reported at the principal balance outstanding, net of unearned loan fees and costs, premiums on loans purchased, and an allowance for loan losses.

The Bank also purchases loans that conform to our underwriting standards, principally one- to four-family residential mortgages, in the form of whole loans as well as participation interests for interest rate risk management and portfolio diversification and to supplement our organic growth.

Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance. Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized in interest income using the level yield method. Interest income includes amortization of purchase premiums or discounts on loans purchased. Premiums and discounts are amortized on the level yield method.
 
(Continued)
87


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Interest income on mortgage and commercial loans is discontinued at the time the loan is 90 days delinquent unless the credit is well secured and in process of collection. Consumer loans are typically charged off no later than 180 days past due. Past due status is based on the contractual terms of the loan. In all cases, loans are placed on non-accrual or charged-off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful.

All accrued interest on loans placed on-non-accrual status is reversed against interest income. Interest received on such loans is accounted for on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

Allowance for Loan Losses: The allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses, increased by the provision for loan losses and decreased by charge-offs less recoveries. Management estimates the allowance balance required by considering the past loan loss experience, the nature and volume of the portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated value of any underlying collateral, whether the loan was originated through the Company’s retail network or through a broker, economic conditions and other factors. Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged-off. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed.

The allowance consists of specific and general components. The specific component relates to loans that are individually evaluated and determined to be impaired. Loans individually evaluated are generally large balance and/or complex loans, such as multi-family and commercial real estate loans. This evaluation is often based on significant estimates and assumptions due to the level of subjectivity and judgment necessary to account for highly uncertain matters or the susceptibility of such matters to change. The general component relates to large groups of small balance homogeneous loans that are evaluated in the aggregate based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors.

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Impairment is measured on a loan by loan basis for commercial and construction loans over $250 thousand by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s obtainable market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Large groups of smaller balance homogeneous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment. Accordingly, the Company does not separately identify individual consumer and residential loans for impairment disclosures.
 
(Continued)
88


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 


NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Transfers of Financial Assets: Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (2) the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

Foreclosed Assets: Assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value, less estimated selling costs, at the date of foreclosure, establishing a new cost basis. If fair value declines subsequent to foreclosure, a valuation allowance is recorded through expense. Costs relating to improvement of property are capitalized, whereas costs relating to the holding of property are expensed.

Federal Home Loan Bank Stock: Atlantic Coast Bank is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) system. Members are required to own a certain amount of FHLB stock based on the level of borrowings and other factors, and may invest in additional amounts. FHLB stock is carried at cost, classified as a restricted security, and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income.

Land, Premises, and Equipment: Land is carried at cost. Buildings and furniture, fixtures and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Premises and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line and accelerated methods over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Buildings and related components have useful lives ranging from 15 to 39 years. Furniture, fixtures, and equipment have useful lives ranging from 1 to 15 years. Interest expense associated with the construction of new facilities is capitalized at the weighted average cost of funds.

Bank Owned Life Insurance: The Company has purchased life insurance policies on certain key executives. Upon adoption of EITF 06-5, which is discussed further below, Bank owned life insurance is recorded at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the balance sheet date, which is the cash surrender value adjusted for other charges or other amounts due that are probable at settlement. Prior to adoption of EITF 06-5, the Company recorded owned life insurance at its cash surrender value.

In September 2006, the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force finalized Issue No. 06-5, Accounting for Purchases of Life Insurance - Determining the Amount That Could Be Realized in Accordance with FASB Technical Bulletin No. 85-4 (Accounting for Purchases of Life Insurance){Issue}. This Issue requires that a policyholder consider contractual terms of a life insurance policy in determining the amount that could be realized under the insurance contract. It also requires that if the contract provides for a greater surrender value if all individual policies in a group are surrendered at the same time that the surrender value is determined based on the assumption that policies will be surrendered on an individual basis. Lastly, the Issue requires disclosure when there are contractual restrictions on the Company’s ability to surrender a policy. The adoption of EITF 06-5 on January 1, 2007 had no impact on the Company’s financial condition or results of operation.
 
(Continued)
89


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 


NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Earnings Per Common Share: Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period, reduced for unallocated ESOP shares. Diluted earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period increased for the dilutive effect of unvested stock options and stock awards. The dilutive effect of the unvested stock options and stock awards is calculated under the treasury stock method utilizing the average market value of the Company’s stock for the period.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill resulted from business acquisitions and represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of acquired tangible assets and liabilities and identifiable intangible assets. Goodwill is assessed at least annually for impairment and any such impairment is recognized in the period identified. Other intangible assets consist of core deposit arising from branch acquisitions. Core deposit intangibles are initially measured at fair value and then are amortized on an accelerated method over their estimated useful lives, ranging from 4 to 10 years.

Long-Term Assets: Premises and equipment, core deposit and other intangible assets, and other long-term assets are reviewed for impairment when events indicate their carrying amount may not be recoverable from future undiscounted cash flows. If impaired, the assets are recorded at fair value. 

Benefit Plans: Profit-sharing and 401k plan expense is the amount contributed as determined by Board decision. Deferred compensation plan expense is allocated over years of service.

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): The Company accounts for its ESOP in accordance with Statement of Position 93-6. Accordingly, since the Company sponsors the ESOP with an employer loan, neither the ESOP's loan payable or the Company's loan receivable are reported in the Company's consolidated balance sheet. Likewise, the Company does not recognize interest income or interest cost on the loan. Unallocated shares held by the ESOP are recorded as unearned ESOP shares in the consolidated statement of changes in stockholders' equity. As shares are committed to be released for allocation, the Company recognizes compensation expense equal to the average market price of the shares for the period. Dividends on allocated ESOP shares reduce retained earnings; dividends on unearned ESOP shares reduce debt and accrued interest.
 
(Continued)
90


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 


NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Stock Compensation: The Company records compensation cost for stock or stock options awarded to employees in return for employee service. The cost is measured at the grant-date fair value of the award and recognized as compensation expense over the employee service period, which is normally the vesting period.

Income Taxes: Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are the expected future tax amounts for the temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.

The Company adopted FASB Interpretation 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (“FIN 48”), as of January 1, 2007. A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is "more likely than not" that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the "more likely than not" test, no tax benefit is recorded. The adoption had no affect on the Company’s financial statements.

The Company recognizes interest expense related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

Loss Contingencies: Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and amount or range of loss can be reasonably estimated. Management does not believe there are currently any such matters that will have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.

Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments: Financial instruments include off-balance sheet credit instruments including commitments to make loans and unused lines of credit, issued to meet customers' financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.
 
Derivatives: All derivative instruments are recorded at their fair values. If derivative instruments are designated and qualify as hedges of fair values, both the change in the fair value of the hedge and the hedged item are included in current earnings. Fair value adjustments related to cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income and reclassified to earnings when the hedged transaction is reflected in earnings. Ineffective portions of hedges are reflected in earnings as they occur.

Comprehensive Income: Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes the net change in unrealized appreciation and depreciation on securities available for sale, net of tax, and the fair value of cash flow hedges, net of tax, which are also recognized as separate components of equity.
 
(Continued)
91

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 


NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments: Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in a separate note. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, credit risk, prepayments, and other factors, especially in the absence of broad markets for particular items. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates.

Operating Segments: While the chief decision-makers monitor the revenue streams of the various products and services, the identifiable segments are not material and operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a company-wide basis. Accordingly, all of the financial service operations are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment.

Restrictions on Cash: Cash on hand or on deposit with the Federal Reserve of $0 and $710,000, at year end 2007 and 2006 respectively, was required to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements. These balances do not earn interest. During 2007 the Bank entered into a new Deposit Reclassification program with the Federal Reserve Bank that allowed for the reduction of reserve requirement balances.

Dividends: Banking regulations require maintaining certain capital levels and may limit the dividends paid by the Bank to the Stock Company or by the Company to shareholders. The Mutual Company, with approval of the Office of Thrift Supervision, may waive receipt of dividends paid by the Stock Company. Waived dividends are not charged to the Stock Company’s retained earnings, nor restrict the amount of future dividends. During 2007 and 2006, the Mutual Company waived receipt of dividends in the amount of $5.0 million and $3.7 million, respectively.

Reclassifications: Certain items in the prior year financial statements were reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

Effect of Newly Issued But Not Yet Effective Accounting Standards: In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements (“SFAS 157”), which addresses how companies should measure fair value when they are required to use a fair value measure for recognition or disclosure purposes under generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). SFAS 157, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, does not require new fair value measurements, however it does establish a common definition of fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. The Company is presently assessing the impact FAS 157 may have on its financial statements, but no determination has been made at this time.
 
(Continued)
92

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

In February 2008, the FASB issued Staff Position (FSP) 157-2, Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157. This FSP delays the effective date of FAS 157 for all nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis (at least annually) to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years.

In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The standard provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value and establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to facilitate comparisons between companies that choose different measurement attributes for similar types of assets and liabilities. The new standard is effective for the Company on January 1, 2008. The Company did not elect the fair value option for any financial assets or financial liabilities as of January 1, 2008.

In September 2006, the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) finalized Issue No. 06-4, Accounting for Deferred Compensation and Postretirement Benefit Aspects of Endorsement Split-Dollar Life Insurance Arrangements. This issue requires that a liability be recorded during the service period when a split-dollar life insurance agreement continues after participants’ employment or retirement. The required accrued liability will be based on either the post-employment benefit cost for the continuing life insurance or based on the future death benefit depending on the contractual terms of the underlying agreement. This issue is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2007. The adoption of EITF No. 06-4 did not have a material effect on the financial statements.

NOTE 2 – SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE

The fair value of securities available for sale and the related gross unrealized gains and losses recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) were as follows:

 
 
Fair Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
 
 
               
December 31, 2007
                   
Government-sponsored enterprises
 
$
11,510
 
$
87
 
$
(45
)
State and municipal
   
8,684
   
13
   
(175
)
Mortgage-backed
   
114,022
   
703
   
(429
)
               
   
$
134,216
 
$
803
 
$
(649
)
               
December 31, 2006
             
Government-sponsored enterprises
 
$
16,280
 
$
6
 
$
(114
)
State and municipal
   
1,729
   
-
   
(19
)
Mortgage-backed
   
81,222
   
197
   
(401
)
               
 
 
$
99,231
 
$
203
 
$
(534
)
 
(Continued)
93

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 2 – SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE (continued)

The sales of securities available for sale for years ended December 31 were as follows:

   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Proceeds
 
$
14,619
 
$
16,657
 
$
10,130
 
Gross gains
   
40
   
2
   
-
 
Gross losses
   
(86
)
 
(165
)
 
(80
)
 
The tax benefit related to these net realized losses was $16,000, $62,000 and $30,000, respectively.

The fair value of debt securities segregated by contractual maturity as of December 31, 2007, is shown below. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or property penalties. Securities not due at a single maturity date, primarily mortgage-backed securities, are shown separately.

   
2007
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
   
 
 
Due in one year or less
 
$
-
 
Due from one to five years
   
5,230
 
Due from five to ten years
   
1,370
 
Due after ten years
   
13,594
 
Mortgage-backed
   
114,022
 
       
Total
 
$
134,216
 
 
Securities pledged at year-end 2007 had a carrying value of $89.7 million, $4.1 million was pledged to secure public funds, and $85.6 million was pledged as collateral for borrowings. Securities pledged at year-end 2006 had a carrying value of $37.8 million, $7.0 million was pledged to secure public funds, and $30.9 million was pledged as collateral for borrowings. At December 31, 2007 and 2006, there were no holdings of securities of any one issuer, other than the U. S. Government-sponsored enterprises, in an amount greater than 10% of equity.
 
Securities with unrealized losses at December 31, 2007 and 2006, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position are as follows:
 
(Continued)
94

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 2 – SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE (continued)

       
(Dollars in Thousands)
     
   
Less than 12 Months
 
12 Months or More
 
Total
 
   
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Description of Securities
 
Value
 
Loss
 
Value
 
Loss
 
Value
 
Loss
 
2007
                         
Government-sponsored enterprises
 
$
1,968
 
$
(6
)
$
933
 
$
(39
)
$
2,901
 
$
(45
)
State and municipal
   
7,575
   
(175
)
 
-
   
-
   
7,575
   
(175
)
Mortgage-backed
   
26,297
   
(193
)
 
24,464
   
(236
)
 
50,761
   
(429
)
                                       
Total temporarily impaired
 
$
35,840
 
$
(374
)
$
25,397
 
$
(275
)
$
61,237
 
$
(649
)
                                       
2006
                                     
Government-sponsored enterprises
 
$
6,379
 
$
(14
)
$
2,869
 
$
(100
)
$
9,248
 
$
(114
)
State and municipal
   
550
   
(3
)
 
1,179
   
(16
)
 
1,729
   
(19
)
Mortgage-backed
   
36,063
   
(192
)
 
14,455
   
(209
)
 
50,518
   
(401
)
                                       
Total temporarily impaired
 
$
42,992
 
$
(209
)
$
18,503
 
$
(325
)
$
61,495
 
$
(534
)
 
The Company evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment, at least on a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market concerns warrant such evaluation. Consideration is given to the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, the credit risk of the underlying assets, and the intent and ability of the Company to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. In analyzing an issuer's financial condition, the Company may consider whether the securities are issued by the federal government or one of its agencies, whether downgrades by bond rating agencies have occurred, and the results of reviews of the issuer's financial condition.

Interest income earned from securities exempt from federal income tax was $205,000, $70,000 and $173,000 for the years ending December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

NOTE 3 – REAL ESTATE MORTGAGES HELD FOR SALE

Real estate mortgages held for sale are comprised entirely of loans secured by one- to four-family residential residences. Substantially all of the balance outstanding at December 31, 2007, is composed of individual residential mortgage loans assigned to the Company in connection with a mortgage broker loan agreement entered into during 2006. Under the terms of this loan agreement, the Company provides funds to the mortgage broker for individual mortgage loan closings. In exchange the Company accepts an assignment of the individual mortgage loan pending its sale to various third-party investors as arranged by the mortgage broker. Upon acceptance for purchase by the third-party investors, the loan agreement requires the Company to reassign the loan back to the mortgage broker at par, for completion of the third-party sale. The Company receives interest income upon the sale of these loans for the period of the assignment. As of December 31, 2007, the weighted average number of days outstanding of real estate mortgages held for sale was 5 days.
 
(Continued)
95

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 4 - LOANS, NET

Loans at December 31 are summarized as follows:

   
As of December 31,
 
Increase (decrease)
 
   
2007
 
% of total
loans
 
2006
 
% of total
loans
 
Dollars
 
Percentage
 
   
(Dollars In Thousands)
 
Real estate loans:
                         
One-to-four family
 
$
377,956
   
53.5
%
$
334,000
   
52.1
%
$
43,956
   
13.2
%
Commercial
   
74,748
   
10.6
%
 
60,912
   
9.5
%
 
13,836
   
22.7
%
Other ( land & multifamily)
   
40,698
   
5.8
%
 
34,446
   
5.4
%
 
6,252
   
18.2
%
Total real estate loans
   
493,402
   
69.8
%
 
429,358
   
67.0
%
 
64,044
   
14.9
%
                                       
Real estate construction loans:
                                     
Construction-one-to-four family
   
13,448
   
1.9
%
 
32,467
   
5.1
%
 
(19,019
)
 
-58.6
%
Construction-commercial
   
11,129
   
1.6
%
 
2,862
   
0.5
%
 
8,267
   
288.9
%
Acquisition & development
   
5,329
   
0.8
%
 
2,103
   
0.3
%
 
3,226
   
153.4
%
Total real estate construction loans
   
29,906
   
4.2
%
 
37,432
   
5.9
%
 
(7,526
)
 
-20.1
%
                                       
Other loans:
                                     
Home equity
   
98,410
   
13.9
%
 
91,062
   
14.2
%
 
7,348
   
8.1
%
Consumer
   
64,673
   
9.2
%
 
63,630
   
9.9
%
 
1,043
   
1.6
%
Commercial
   
20,009
   
2.8
%
 
19,044
   
3.0
%
 
965
   
5.1
%
Total other loans
   
183,092
   
25.9
%
 
173,736
   
27.1
%
 
9,356
   
5.4
%
                                       
Total loans
   
706,400
   
100
%
 
640,526
   
100
%
 
65,874
   
10.3
%
                                       
Allowance for loan losses
   
(6,482
)
       
(4,705
)
       
(1,777
)
 
37.8
%
Net deferred loan costs
   
3,256
         
3,348
         
(92
)
 
-2.7
%
Premiums on purchased loans
   
339
         
348
         
(9
)
 
-2.6
%
                                       
Loans, net
 
$
703,513
       
$
639,517
       
$
63,996
   
10.0
%
 
(Continued)
96

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 4 - LOANS, NET (continued)

Activity in the allowance for loan losses was as follows:

   
  Years Ended December 31,
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
               
Beginning balance
 
$
4,705
 
$
4,587
 
$
3,956
 
Provision for loan losses
   
2,616
   
475
   
2,121
 
Loans charged-off
   
(2,953
)
 
(1,215
)
 
(2,326
)
Recoveries
   
2,114
   
858
   
836
 
Ending balance
 
$
6,482
 
$
4,705
 
$
4,587
 
 
Impaired loans as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 were as follows:

   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
Year-end loans with no allocated allowance for loan losses
 
$
1,643
 
$
-
 
Year-end loans with an allocated allowance for loan losses
   
5,403
   
2,004
 
Total
 
$
7,046
 
$
2,004
 
               
Amount of the allowance for loan losses allocated to impaired loans
 
$
1,371
 
$
572
 
 
   
Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
Average of impaired loans during the period
 
$
3,396
 
$
3,798
 
$
5,929
 
Interest income recognized during impairment
   
   
   
 
Cash-basis interest income recognized
   
   
   
 

Non-performing loans, including non-accrual loans, at December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 were $7.8 million, $3.1 million and $2.6 million, respectively. There were no loans over 90 days past-due and still accruing interest as of the end of 2007, 2006 or 2005. Non-performing loans include both smaller balance homogeneous loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment and individually classified as impaired loans. For 2007 and 2006 contractual gross interest income of $371,000 and $176,000 would have been recorded on non-performing loans if those loans had been current. Actual interest recorded on such loans was $330,000 in 2007 and $66,000 in 2006.
 
(Continued)
97

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 4 - LOANS, NET (continued)

The Company has originated loans with directors and executive officers and their associates. These loans totaled approximately $3.3 million and $3.0 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006. The activity on these loans for 2007 was as follows:
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Beginning balance
 
$
3,012
 
New loans
   
300
 
Effect of changes in related parties
   
106
 
Repayments
   
(89
)
         
Ending balance
 
$
3,329
 
 
NOTE 5 - ACCRUED INTEREST RECEIVABLE

Accrued interest receivable at December 31 is summarized as follows:

 
 
2007
 
2006
 
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands) 
 
Loans
 
$
3,092
 
$
2,836
 
Securities available for sale
   
858
   
549
 
FHLB stock dividend
   
130
   
114
 
           
Total
 
$
4,080
 
$
3,499
 
 
NOTE 6 - LAND, PREMISES, AND EQUIPMENT, NET

Land, premises, and equipment, net at December 31 are summarized as follows:

 
 
2007
 
2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands) 
 
Land
 
$
7,742
 
$
7,731
 
Buildings and leasehold improvements
   
12,270
   
10,874
 
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment
   
8,619
   
8,116
 
Building and equipment in process
   
322
   
2,051
 
     
28,953
   
28,772
 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization
   
(11,980
)
 
(11,162
)
           
Land, premises and equipment, net
 
$
16,973
 
$
17,610
 
 
Depreciation expense was $1.4 million, $1.2 million and $1.0 million for 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
 
(Continued)
98

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 7 – GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill

The change in balance for goodwill during the periods ending December 31 is as follows:

   
2007
 
2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Beginning of period
 
$
2,661
 
$
2,661
 
Increases in goodwill
   
-
   
-
 
End of period
 
$
2,661
 
$
2,661
 

The Company determined that goodwill was not impaired during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006.

Core Deposit Intangible Assets
 
Core deposit intangible assets included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 were as follows:
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
   
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
                   
Amortized intangible assets:
                 
Core deposit intangibles
 
$
611
 
$
(428
)
$
611
 
$
(384
)
 
Aggregate amortization expense was $44,000, $81,000 and $83,000 for the years 2007, 2006 and 2005.
 
Estimated amortization expense for each of the next five years ending December 31:

   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
2008
 
$
38
 
2009
   
35
 
2010
   
34
 
2011
   
32
 
2012
   
31
 
 
(Continued)
99

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 8 - DEPOSITS

Time deposits of $100,000 or more were approximately $125.7 million and $131.7 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006. Deposit balances over $100,000 may not be federally insured.

Scheduled maturities of time deposits at December 31, 2007 were as follows:

   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
       
2008
 
$
248,748
 
2009
   
41,224
 
2010
   
13,542
 
2011
   
7,378
 
2012
   
5,762
 
   
$
316,654
 
 
Brokered certificate of deposits were $33.8 million and $39.4 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006.

Deposits from directors, executive officers and their associates at December 31, 2007 and 2006 were approximately $1.2 million and $967,000.

Interest expense on customer deposit accounts is summarized as follows:

   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Interest bearing
 
$
1,482
 
$
1,572
 
$
1,307
 
Savings & money market
   
7,169
   
3,293
   
1,675
 
Time
   
15,144
   
13,583
   
9,186
 
   
$
23,795
 
$
18,448
 
$
12,168
 
 
NOTE 9 - FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK ADVANCES

At year-end, advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta were as follows:

   
2007
 
2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Maturities March 2008 through December 2017, fixed at rates from 3.46% to 5.27%, averaging 4.15%
 
$
153,000
 
$
114,000
 
Maturities April 2010 through January 2014, variable rate at rates from 4.37% to 5.23%, averaging 4.80%
   
20,000
   
30,000
 
Total
 
$
173,000
 
$
144,000
 

Fixed-rate advances includes amounts which may be converted by the FHLB, at various designated dates following issuance, from fixed-rate to variable-rate debt, or for certain advances, adjusted to current market fixed rates. If the FHLB converts the rates the Company has the option of pre-paying the debt, without penalty. The Company may incur prepayment penalties if the Company prepays the debt. At year-end 2007 and 2006, the amounts of convertible advances were $135.0 million and $99.0 million, respectively.
 
(Continued)
100

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 9 - FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK ADVANCES (continued)

The advances at December 31, 2007 mature as follows: 

 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
2008
 
$
3,000
 
2009
   
5,000
 
2010
   
20,000
 
2011
   
10,000
 
2012
   
-
 
Thereafter
   
135,000
 
 
     
 
 
$
173,000
 

The Company has a borrowing capacity of 30% of total bank assets with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta. The Company had mortgage and home equity loans totaling approximately $426.7 million and $433.4 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006 pledged as collateral for the FHLB advances. At December 31, 2007, the remaining borrowing capacity was $102.9 million. At December 31, 2007 and 2006 Atlantic Coast owned $9.3 million and $7.9 million of FHLB stock, which also secures debts to the FHLB.

NOTE 10 – SECURITIES SOLD UNDER AGREEMENTS TO REPURCHASE

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase with a carrying amount of $78.5 million and $29.0 million at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively, were secured by mortgage backed securities.

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase are financing arrangements that mature within ten years. At maturity, the securities underlying the agreements are returned to the Company. Information concerning securities sold under agreements to repurchase is summarized as follows:
 
   
2007
 
  2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Average daily balance during the year
 
$
45,077
 
$
13,951
 
Average interest rate during the year
   
4.42
%
 
4.49
%
Maximum month-end balance during the years
 
$
78,500
 
$
29,000
 
Weighted average interest rate at year-end
   
4.25
%
 
4.45
%

NOTE 11 - INTEREST RATE SWAPS

The Company utilizes interest rate swap agreements as part of its asset liability management strategy to help manage its interest rate risk position by mitigating the impact of significant unexpected fluctuations in earnings caused by interest rate volatility or changes in the yield curve. The notional amount of the interest rate swaps does not represent amounts exchanged by the parties. The amount exchanged is determined by reference to the notional amount and the other terms of the individual interest rate swap agreements.

The Company’s interest rate swap agreements do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, therefore changes in market value are reported in current period earnings.

Summary information about the interest-rate swaps as of year -end is as follows:
 
(Continued)
101

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 11 - INTEREST RATE SWAPS (continued)

   
2007
 
2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Notional amounts
 
$
-
 
$
15,000
 
Weighted average pay rates (fixed)
   
-
   
5.04
%
Weighted average receive rates (3 month LIBOR)
   
-
   
5.97
%
Weighted average maturity
   
-
   
4.9 years
 
Unrealized gains
 
$
-
 
$
637
 
 
Unrealized gains on these interest rate swap agreements are reported as components of other assets with a corresponding credit of $0 as of December 31, 2007 and a credit of $668,000 at December 31, 2006 to income recorded as a component of other non-interest income. Unrealized losses on these interest rate swap agreements are reported as components of other liabilities with a corresponding debit of $0 as of December 31, 2007 and a debit of $31,000 at December 31, 2006 to income recorded as a component of other non-interest income.

NOTE 12 - EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Defined Contribution Plan: Company employees, meeting certain age and length of service requirements, may participate in a 401(k) plan sponsored by the Company. Plan participants may contribute between 1% and 75% of gross income, subject to an IRS maximum of $15,500, with a company match of up to 5%. For 2007, 2006 and 2005, the total plan expense was $310,000, $306,000 and $209,000, respectively.

Director Retirement Plan: A director retirement plan covers all non-employee members of the Board. The plan provides monthly benefits for a period of ten years following retirement. For 2007, 2006 and 2005, the expense for the plan was $26,000, $33,000, and $131,000, respectively. The related plan liability was $204,000 and $178,000 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

Deferred Director Fee Plan: A deferred director fee compensation plan covers all non-employee directors. Under the plan directors may defer director fees. These fees are expensed as earned and the plan accumulates the fees plus earnings. At December 31, 2007 and 2006, the liability for the plan was $298,000 and $250,000, respectively.

Supplemental Retirement Plans: The Company provides supplemental retirement plans for certain officers beginning after one year of service. These plans generally provide for the payment of supplemental retirement benefits over a period of fifteen (15) to twenty (20) years after retirement. Vesting generally occurs over a six (6) to ten (10)-year period. For 2007, 2006 and 2005, expense for the supplemental retirement plans totaled $605,000, $585,000 and $235,000. The accrued liability for the plans totaled $1,929,000 and $1,378,000 at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

Split Dollar Life insurance agreement: The Company entered into a Split Dollar Life insurance agreement with certain executive officers during 2006 recognizing an expense of $60,000 and $15,000 for 2007 and 2006, respectively. The related liability was $75,000 and $15,000 at December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively.

(Continued)
102

ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005


NOTE 13 - EMPLOYEE STOCK OWNERSHIP PLAN

In connection with the minority stock offering, the Company established an Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") for the benefit of its employees with an effective date of January 1, 2004. The ESOP purchased 465,520 shares of common stock from the minority stock offering with proceeds from a ten-year note in the amount of $4,655,000 from the Company. The Company's Board of Directors determines the amount of contribution to the ESOP annually but is required to make contributions sufficient to service the ESOP's debt. Shares are released for allocation to employees as the ESOP debt is repaid. Eligible employees receive an allocation of released shares at the end of the calendar year on a relative compensation basis. An employee becomes eligible on January 1st or July 1st immediately following the date they complete one year of service. Company dividends on allocated shares will be paid to employee accounts. Dividends on unallocated shares held by the ESOP will be applied to the ESOP note payable.

Contributions to the ESOP were $646,000, $625,000 and $580,000 during 2007, 2006 and 2005. Contributions include approximately $179,000 and $142,000 in dividends on unearned shares in 2007 and 2006.

Compensation expense for shares committed to be released under the Company's ESOP was $742,000, $720,000 and $613,000 in 2007, 2006 and 2005. Shares held by the ESOP as of December 31 were as follows:

   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
Allocated to eligible employees
   
186,208
   
139,656
 
Unearned
   
279,312
   
325,864
 
Total ESOP shares
   
465,520
   
465,520
 
               
Fair value of unearned shares
 
$
3,318
 
$
5,941
 
 
NOTE 14- STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

In 2005 the Company’s stockholders approved the establishment of both the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 2005 Recognition and Retention Plan (the “Recognition Plan”), and the Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 2005 Stock Option Plan (the “Stock Option Plan”). The compensation cost that has been charged against income for the Recognition Plan for 2007, 2006 and 2005 was $684,000, $595,000 and $293,000. The compensation cost that has been charged against income for the Stock Option Plan for 2007, 2006 and 2005 was $332,000, $308,000 and $110,000. The total income tax benefit recognized in the income statement for stock-based compensation for 2007, 2006 and 2005 was $265,000 $235,000 and $111,000.
 
(Continued)
103

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005

 
NOTE 14- STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (continued)

The Recognition Plan
The Recognition Plan permits the Company’s board of directors to award up to 285,131 shares of its common stock to directors and key employees designated by the board. Under the terms of the Recognition Plan, awarded shares are restricted as to transferability and may not be sold, assigned, or transferred prior to vesting. Awarded shares vest at a rate of 20% of the initially awarded amount per year, beginning on the first anniversary date of the award, and are contingent upon continuous service by the recipient through the vesting date. Any awarded shares which are forfeited, are returned to the Company to be re-awarded to another recipient. The Recognition Plan became effective on July 1, 2005 and remains in effect for the earlier of 10 years from the effective date, or the date on which all shares of common stock available for award have vested.

During 2007 the Company’s board of directors awarded 9,124 shares of common stock available under the Recognition Plan to directors and key employees. The restricted shares awarded during 2007 had a grant date fair value of $66,000. A summary of the status of the shares of the Recognition Plan at December 31, 2007, is presented below:

   
Shares
 
Weighted-Average Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
                                               
Non-vested at January 1, 2007
   
233,445
 
$
13.13
 
Granted
   
9,124
   
13.30
 
Vested
   
(53,580
)
 
12.88
 
Forfeited
   
(9,124
)
 
12.30
 
               
Non-vested at December 31, 2007
   
179,865
 
$
14.23
 


The weighted average grant-date fair value of non-vested shares was $14.23 and $13.13 at December 31, 2007 and 2006. There was $1.4 million and $2.3 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested shares awarded under the Recognition Plan at December 31, 2007 and 2006. The expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.8 years. The total fair value of shares vested during the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 was $0.7 million and $1.7 million, respectively, no shares vested during 2005.

The Stock Option Plan
The Stock Option Plan permits the Company’s board of directors to grant options to purchase up to 712,827 shares of its common stock to the Company’s directors and key employees. Under the terms of the Stock Option Plan, granted stock options have a contractual term of 10 years from the date of grant, with an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Key employees are eligible to receive incentive stock options or non-qualified stock options, while outside directors are eligible for non-statutory stock options only.
 
(Continued)
104

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005

 
NOTE 14- STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (continued)

The Stock Option Plan also permits the Company’s board of directors to issue key employees, simultaneous with the issuance of stock options, an equal number of Limited Stock Appreciation Rights (The Limited SAR). The Limited SARs are exercisable only upon a change of control and, if exercised, reduce one-for-one the recipient’s related stock option grants. Under the terms of the Stock Option Plan, granted stock options vest at a rate of 20% of the initially granted amount per year, beginning on the first anniversary date of the grant, and are contingent upon continuous service by the recipient through the vesting date. Accelerated vesting occurs if there is a change in control. The Stock Option Plan became effective on July 28, 2005 and terminates upon the earlier of 10 years after the effective date, or the date on which the exercise of Options or related rights equaling the maximum number of shares occurs.

During 2007 the Company’s board of directors awarded 30,000 incentive stock options to key employees with a weighted-average exercise price of $11.55. The weighted-average fair value of each stock option awarded is estimated to be $1.82 on the date of grant, and is derived by using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions:

   
2007
 
Risk-free interest rate
   
3.58
%
Expected term of stock options (years)
   
6.0
 
Expected stock price volatility
   
22.26
%
Expected dividends
   
4.13
%

The risk-free interest rate is the implied yield available on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with a remaining term equal to the expected term of the stock option. Although the contractual term of the stock options granted is 10 years, the expected term of the stock is less because option restrictions do not permit recipients to sell or pledge their options, and therefore, we believe this may result in exercise of the options before the end of the contractual term. The Company does not have sufficient historical information about its own employees or directors vesting behavior, therefore the expected term of stock options is estimated considering the results of similar companies. Also, since the Company did not begin trading its common stock publicly until October 5, 2004, there was limited history about the volatility of its own shares. Therefore the expected stock price volatility is estimated by considering its own stock volatility for the period since October 5, 2004, as well as that of a sample of similar companies over the expected term of the stock options. Expected dividend is the estimated dividend rate over the expected term of the stock options.

A summary of the option activity under the Stock Option Plan as of December 31, 2007, and changes for the year then ended is presented below:
 
(Continued)
105

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005

 
NOTE 14- STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (continued)
 
Options
 
Shares
 
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted-
Average
Remaining Contractual
Term
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(in thousands)
 
                   
Outstanding at beginnng of year
   
558,051
 
$
14.09
   
-
   
-
 
Granted
   
30,000
   
11.55
   
-
   
-
 
Exercised
   
(4,300
)
 
13.72
   
-
   
-
 
Forfeited
   
(23,300
)
 
13.72
   
-
   
-
 
                           
Outstanding at December 31, 2007
   
560,451
 
$
13.97
   
7.9
 
$
-
 
                           
Vested or expected to vest
   
525,028
 
$
13.95
   
7.9
 
$
-
 
                           
Exercisable at year end
   
223,883
 
$
13.91
   
7.7
 
$
-
 

Information related to the stock option plan during each year follows:

   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
Intrinsic value of options exercised
 
$
18,000
 
$
29,000
   
-
 
Cash received from option exercises
   
57,000
   
102,000
   
-
 
Tax benefit realized from option exercises
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Weighted average fair value of options granted
 
$
1.82
 
$
3.45
 
$
3.15
 

The Company has a policy of satisfying share option exercises by issuing shares from Treasury stock obtained from its stock repurchase programs.

NOTE 15 - INCOME TAXES

Income tax expense was as follows:

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
 (Dollars in Thousands)
 
Current
 
$
3,040
 
$
3,082
 
$
2,127
 
Deferred
   
(3,234
)
 
(700
)
 
(837
)
Change in valuation allowance
   
324
   
-
   
-
 
                     
Total
 
$
130
 
$
2,382
 
$
1,290
 
 
(Continued)
106

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005

 
NOTE 15 - INCOME TAXES (continued)

The effective tax rate differs from the statutory federal income tax rate as follows:

   
Years Ended December 31,
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Income taxes at Current 
                   
Statutory rate of 34%
 
$
423
 
$
2,554
 
$
2,147
 
Increase(decrease) from
                   
State income tax, net of Federal tax effect
   
(89
)
 
(24
)
 
110
 
Tax-exempt income
   
(56
)
 
(19
)
 
(47
)
Increase in cash surrender value of BOLI
   
(293
)
 
(286
)
 
(205
)
ESOP share release
   
94
   
87
   
50
 
Stock option expense
   
81
   
73
   
26
 
Other, net
   
(30
)
 
(3
)
 
(791
)
                     
Income tax expense
 
$
130
 
$
2,382
 
$
1,290
 
                     
Effective tax rate
   
10.4
%
 
31.7
%
 
20.4
%

Other in 2005 includes a benefit of $895,000 for the reversal of a contingency reserve for the same amount. The reserve had been established by the Company in 2000 upon becoming a taxable entity and reflected the tax effect of a tax accounting method utilized by the Company in 2000 and 2001 calendar tax years. The Company believed the filing position was supportable based upon a reasonable interpretation of federal income tax laws and the underlying regulations. However, due to the lack of prior rulings on similar fact patterns, it was unknown whether the accounting method would be sustained upon audit by either federal or state tax authorities. The applicable statue of limitations expired with respect to the 2001 tax year on September 15, 2005, making the contingency reserve unnecessary.
 
(Continued)
107

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005

 
NOTE 15 - INCOME TAXES (continued)

Deferred tax assets and liabilities were due to the following:

 
 
December 31,
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
 
 
2007
 
2006
 
Deferred tax assets:
         
Allowance for loan losses
 
$
2,463
 
$
1,356
 
Depreciation
   
299
   
483
 
Deferred compensation arrangements
   
1,233
   
906
 
Other real estate
   
290
   
71
 
Net operating loss carryforward
   
1,640
   
-
 
Organizational costs
   
-
   
8
 
Net unrealized losses on AFS securities
   
-
   
127
 
Interest income on non-accrual loans
   
33
   
13
 
Accrued expenses
   
162
   
104
 
Deferred loan fees
   
107
   
26
 
               
   
$
6,227
 
$
3,094
 
               
Deferred tax liability:
             
Net unrealized gain on AFS securities
   
(51
)
 
-
 
Net unrealized gain on interest rate swaps
   
-
   
(254
)
Deferred loan costs
   
(500
)
 
(516
)
Prepaid expenses
   
(171
)
 
(161
)
Core deposit intangibles
   
(269
)
 
(203
)
Other
   
-
   
(33
)
     
(991
)
 
(1,167
)
               
Valuation allowance
   
(324
)
 
-
 
               
Net deferred tax asset
 
$
4,912
 
$
1,927
 

 
The Company has a federal net operating loss carryforward of $4.3 million which begins to expire in 2027. There is no valuation allowance on this carryforward. The Company has a Florida and Georgia net operating loss carryforward of $4.5 million which begins to expire in 2027. The Company maintains a valuation allowance on $2.3 million of the loss as it does not anticipate generating taxable income in these states to utilize this carryforward prior to expiration.
 
The Company has no unrecognized tax benefits as of January 1, 2007 and did not recognize any increase in unrecognized benefits during 2007 relative to any tax positions taken in 2007. The Company does not expect the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits to significantly increase or decrease in the next twelve months. Should the accrual of any interest or penalties relative to unrecognized tax benefits be necessary, it is the Company’s policy to record such accruals in its income tax expense accounts; no such accruals existed as of December 31, 2007. The Company and its subsidiaries file U.S. Corporation federal income tax returns and Georgia and Florida Corporation income tax returns. These returns are subject to examination by taxing authorities for all years after 2003.
 
(Continued)
108

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005

 
NOTE 16 - REGULATORY MATTERS

Atlantic Coast Bank is subject to regulatory capital requirements administered by federal banking agencies. Capital adequacy guidelines and prompt corrective action regulations involve quantitative measures of assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors, and the regulators can lower classifications in certain cases. Failure to meet various capital requirements can initiate regulatory action that could have a direct material effect on the financial statements. The prompt corrective action regulations provide for five classifications:
well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and critically undercapitalized, although these terms are not used to represent overall financial condition.

Atlantic Coast Bank actual and required capital levels (in millions) and ratios were:
 
   
Actual
 
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
 
To Be Well
Capitalized Under
Prompt Corrective
Action
 
 
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
Amount
 
Ratio
 
As of December 31, 2007
                         
Total capital (to risk weighted assets)
 
$
75.5
   
12.1
%
$
50.1
   
8.0
%
$
62.6
   
10.0
%
Tier 1 (core) capital (to risk weighted assets)
   
70.4
   
11.2
%
 
25.1
   
4.0
%
 
37.6
   
6.0
%
Tier 1 (core) capital (to adjusted total assets)
   
70.4
   
7.7
%
 
36.8
   
4.0
%
 
46.0
   
5.0
%
                                       
As of December 31, 2006
                                     
Total capital (to risk weighted assets)
 
$
81.6
   
13.8
%
$
47.2
   
8.0
%
$
59.0
   
10.0
%
Tier 1 (core) capital (to risk weighted assets)
   
77.5
   
13.1
%
 
23.6
   
4.0
%
 
35.4
   
6.0
%
Tier 1 (core) capital (to adjusted total assets)
   
77.5
   
9.3
%
 
33.4
   
4.0
%
 
41.7
   
5.0
%

At December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006, Atlantic Coast Bank was classified as "well capitalized." There are no conditions or events since December 31, 2007 that management believes have changed the classification.

The Qualified Thrift Lender test requires at least 65% of assets be maintained in housing-related finance and other specified areas. If this test is not met, limits are placed on growth, branching, new investments, FHLB advances, and dividends, or Atlantic Coast Bank must convert to a commercial bank charter. Management believes this test is met.

Banking regulations limit capital distributions by savings associations. Generally, capital distributions are limited to undistributed net income for the current and prior two years. During 2008 Atlantic Coast Bank can not declare any dividends without prior approval of the OTS.
 
(Continued)
109

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005

 
NOTE 16 - REGULATORY MATTERS (continued)

The following is a reconciliation of Atlantic Coast Bank's equity under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America to regulatory capital as of December 31, 2007 and 2006:

   
2007
 
2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
GAAP equity
 
$
73,213
 
$
80,110
 
Intangible assets
   
(2,844
)
 
(2,888
)
Unrealized (gain) loss on securities available for sale
   
(117
)
 
117
 
Minority interest in includable consolidated subsidiaries including REIT
   
125
   
125
 
Tier 1 Capital
   
70,377
   
77,464
 
General allowance for loan and lease losses
   
5,111
   
4,133
 
               
Total capital
 
$
75,488
 
$
81,597
 

NOTE 17 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

In the ordinary course of business, the Company has various outstanding commitments and contingent liabilities that are not reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

The principal commitments as of December 31 are as follows:

   
2007
 
2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Undisbursed portion of loans closed
 
$
14,664
 
$
22,315
 
Unused lines of credit and commitments to fund loans
   
88,037
   
77,025
 

At December 31, 2007, the undisbursed portion of loans closed is primarily unfunded residential construction loans with fixed and variable rates ranging from 3.90% to 10.75%. At December 31, 2007, the unused lines of credit and commitments to fund loans were made up of both fixed rate and variable rate commitments. The fixed rate commitments totaled $40.0 million and had interest rates that range from 6.40% to 18.0%; variable rate commitments totaled $48.2 million and had interest rates that range from 5.75% to 11.25%.

As of December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Company had fully secured outstanding standby letters of credit commitments totaling $1.1 million and $332,000.
 
(Continued)
110

 
 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005

 
NOTE 17 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

Since certain commitments to make loans, provide lines of credit, and to fund loans in process expire without being used, the amount does not necessarily represent future cash commitments. In addition, commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. The exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to these financial instruments is represented by the contractual amount of these instruments. The Company follows the same credit policy to make such commitments as is followed for those loans recorded on the consolidated balance sheet.
 
The Company has an employment agreement with its chief executive officer (“CEO”). Under the terms of the agreement, certain events leading to separation from the Company could result in cash payments equal to two times the CEO’s salary. Since payments are contingent upon certain events, the Company accrues for no liability.
 
The Company maintains lines of credit with two financial institutions that total $22.5 million. There was no balance outstanding with either line as of December 31, 2007 and 2006.

NOTE 18 - EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

A reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic and diluted earnings per common share computation for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 is as follows:

   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
 
 
 (Dollars in Thousands, Except Share Information)
Basic 
             
                     
Net income
 
$
1,115
 
$
5,129
 
$
5,025
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
   
13,693,651
   
14,036,595
   
14,548,723
 
Less: Average unallocated ESOP shares
   
(325,736
)
 
(372,288
)
 
(418,840
)
Average unvested restricted stock awards
   
(202,571
)
 
(237,283
)
 
(130,297
)
                     
Average shares
   
13,165,344
   
13,427,024
   
13,999,586
 
                     
Basic earnings per common share
 
$
0.08
 
$
0.38
 
$
0.36
 
                     
Diluted
                   
Net income
 
$
1,115
 
$
5,129
 
$
5,025
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding per common share
   
13,165,344
   
13,427,024
   
13,999,586
 
Add:Dilutive effects of assumed exercise of stock options
   
51,445
   
25,695
   
-
 
Dilutive effects of full vesting of stock awards
   
128,719
   
105,107
   
20,563
 
                     
Average shares and dilutive potential common shares
   
13,345,508
   
13,557,826
   
14,020,149
 
                     
Diluted earnings per common share
 
$
0.08
 
$
0.38
 
$
0.36
 
 
(Continued)
111

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005

 
NOTE 18 - EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (continued)

Stock options and restricted stock awards for 640,681, 69,969 and 534,400 shares of common stock were not considered in computing diluted earnings per common share for 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively, because they were anti-dilutive.

NOTE 19 - OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Other comprehensive income (loss) components and related taxes for 2007, 2006 and 2005 were as follows:

   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Unrealized holding gains and (losses) on securities available for sale
 
$
440
 
$
167
 
$
(559
)
Less reclassification adjustments for (gains) losses recognized in income
   
46
   
163
   
80
 
Net unrealized gains and (losses)
   
486
   
330
   
(479
)
Tax effect
   
(178
)
 
(126
)
 
183
 
Net-of-tax amount
   
308
   
204
   
(296
)
                     
Change in fair value of derivatives used for cash flow hedges
   
-
   
-
   
(20
)
Net unrealized (losses)
   
-
   
-
   
(20
)
Tax effect
   
-
   
-
   
8
 
Net-of-tax amount
   
-
   
-
   
(12
)
                     
Other comprehensive income
 
$
308
 
$
204
 
$
(308
)

As of December 31, 2007 and 2006 accumulated other comprehensive income includes $104,000 and $(204,000) related to net unrealized gains (losses) on securities available for sale.
 
(Continued)
112

ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 20 - FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Carrying amount and estimated fair value of financial instruments at year end were as follows:
 
   
As of December 31,
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
   
Carrying
 
Estimated
 
Carrying
 
Estimated
 
   
Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Amount
 
Fair Value
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
FINANCIAL ASSETS
                         
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
29,310
 
$
29,310
 
$
41,057
 
$
41,057
 
Other interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions
   
-
   
-
   
1,200
   
1,200
 
Securities available for sale
   
134,216
   
134,216
   
99,231
   
99,231
 
Real estate mortgages held for sale
   
640
   
640
   
4,365
   
4,365
 
Loans, net
   
703,513
   
683,562
   
639,517
   
615,558
 
Federal Home Loan Bank stock
   
9,293
   
n/a
   
7,948
   
n/a
 
Accrued interest receivable
   
4,080
   
4,080
   
3,499
   
3,499
 
Interest rate swaps
   
-
   
-
   
668
   
668
 
                           
FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
                         
Deposits
   
582,730
   
582,791
   
573,052
   
572,165
 
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase
   
78,500
   
76,533
   
29,000
   
29,000
 
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
   
173,000
   
144,906
   
144,000
   
118,590
 
Accrued interest payable
   
1,342
   
1,342
   
1,058
   
1,058
 
Interest rate swaps
   
-
   
-
   
31
   
31
 

The methods and assumptions used to estimate fair value are described as follows:

Carrying amount is the estimated fair value for cash and cash equivalents, other interest-bearing deposit in other financial institutions, accrued interest, demand and savings deposits and variable rate loans or deposits that re-price frequently and fully. Security fair values are based on market prices or dealer quotes, and if no such information is available, on the rate and term of the security and information about the issuer. For fixed rate loans or deposits and for variable rate loans or deposits with infrequent re-pricing or re-pricing limits, fair value is based on discounted cash flows using current market rates applied to the estimated life and credit risk. Fair value of debt (FHLB advances and securities sold under agreements to repurchase) is based on current rates for similar financing. The fair value of interest rate swaps is based on quotes provided by the issuers of the interest rate swaps, who are the only permissible re-purchasers of the contracts. It was not practicable to determine the fair vale of FHLB stock due to restrictions placed on its transferability. The estimated fair value of other financial instruments and off-balance-sheet loan commitments approximate cost and are not considered significant to this presentation.

(Continued)
113


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 21 - PARENT COMPANY ONLY CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 2007 and 2006
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
           
Cash and cash equivalents at subsidiary
 
$
706
 
$
327
 
Other interest bearing deposits at subsidiary
   
-
   
1,200
 
Securities available for sale
   
6,660
   
7,522
 
Investment in subsidiary
   
73,213
   
80,110
 
Note receivable from ESOP
   
3,032
   
3,409
 
Other assets
   
7,865
   
2,944
 
               
Total assets
 
$
91,476
 
$
95,512
 
               
Borrowed funds
 
$
718
 
$
3,268
 
Other accrued expenses
   
952
   
1,157
 
Total stockholders'equity
   
89,806
   
91,087
 
               
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
91,476
 
$
95,512
 
 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
               
Net interest income
 
$
530
 
$
671
 
$
866
 
Loss on sale of securities
   
-
   
(43
)
 
(80
)
Other
   
136
   
23
   
-
 
Equity in net income of subsidiary
   
2,345
   
5,239
   
5,026
 
                     
Total income
   
3,011
   
5,890
   
5,812
 
                     
Total expense
   
1,896
   
761
   
787
 
                     
Net income
 
$
1,115
 
$
5,129
 
$
5,025
 
 
(Continued)
114

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 21 - PARENT COMPANY ONLY CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)

ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 
   
2007
 
2006
 
2005
 
   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
Cash flow from operating activities
                   
Net income
 
$
1,115
 
$
5,129
 
$
5,025
 
Adjustments:
                   
Loss on sale of securities
   
-
   
43
   
80
 
Net change in other assets
   
(1,866
)
 
(664
)
 
235
 
Net change in other liabilities
   
(339
)
 
73
   
(241
)
Share-based compensation expense
   
1,125
   
903
   
398
 
Dividends received from subsidiary
   
10,216
   
2,044
   
-
 
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiary
   
(2,345
)
 
(5,239
)
 
(5,026
)
Net cash from operating activities
   
7,906
   
2,289
   
471
 
                     
Cash flow from investing activities
                   
Purchase of securities available for sale
   
-
   
(2,449
)
 
(9,000
)
Proceeds from maturities and repayments of securities available for sale
   
983
   
2,279
   
9,840
 
Proceeds from the sale of securities available for sale
   
-
   
3,000
   
9,473
 
Purchase of bank owned life insurance
   
(3,100
)
 
(1,695
)
 
-
 
Payments received on ESOP loan
   
376
   
362
   
370
 
Net change in other interest bearing deposits at subsidiary
   
1,200
   
600
   
701
 
Net cash from investing activities
   
(541
)
 
2,097
   
11,384
 
                     
Cash flow from financing activities
                   
Advances from Atlantic Coast Bank
   
428
   
3,618
   
-
 
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
   
57
   
102
   
-
 
Shares relinquished
   
(16
)
 
-
   
-
 
Treasury stock purchased
   
(1,968
)
 
(6,877
)
 
(9,603
)
Repayments to Atlantic Coast Bank
   
(2,978
)
 
(350
)
 
-
 
Dividends paid
   
(2,509
)
 
(1,895
)
 
(1,494
)
Net cash from financing activities
   
(6,986
)
 
(5,402
)
 
(11,097
)
                     
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
   
379
   
(1,016
)
 
758
 
                     
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
327
   
1,343
   
585
 
                     
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
706
 
$
327
 
$
1,343
 
 
(Continued)
115


ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005
 

 
NOTE 22 - QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

   
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
                       
   
Interest
 
Net Interest
 
Net
 
Earnings per Share
 
   
Income
 
Income
 
Income
 
Basic
 
Diluted
 
                       
2007
                               
First quarter
 
$
13,256
 
$
5,353
 
$
785
 
$
.06
 
$
.06
 
Second quarter
   
13,766
   
5,538
   
635
   
.05
   
.05
 
Third quarter
   
14,263
   
5,730
   
789
   
.06
   
.06
 
Fourth quarter
   
14,224
   
5,765
   
(1,094)
(4)
 
(.09
)
 
(.09
)
                                 
2006
                               
First quarter
 
$
10,515
 
$
5,237
 
$
1,291
 
$
.10
 
$
.10
 
Second quarter
   
11,156
   
5,422
   
1,410
   
.10
   
.10
 
Third quarter
   
12,006
   
5,558
   
1,518
   
.11
   
.11
 
Fourth quarter
   
12,730
   
5,443
   
910
(1)
 
.07
   
.07
 
                                 
2005
                               
First quarter
 
$
8,443
 
$
4,998
 
$
1,060
 
$
.08
 
$
.08
 
Second quarter
   
9,219
   
5,112
   
696
   
.05 (3
)
 
.05
(3)
Third quarter
   
9,407
   
4,819
   
2,112
(2)
 
.15
   
.15
 
Fourth quarter
   
10,185
   
5,186
   
1,157
   
.08
   
.08
 


(1)
The fourth quarter of 2006 was impacted by interest margin compression, an increased provision for loan losses, increased compensation expense and increased outside consulting services.
 
 
(2)
The third quarter of 2005 includes the tax benefit of the elimination of a tax-related contingent liability of $895 as discussed in Note 13.
 
(3)
The second quarter 2005 basic and diluted earnings per share were both previously reported as $.06. They have both been restated to $.05 due to rounding differences.
 
(4)
The fourth quarter of 2007 was impacted by an increased provision for loan losses and increased operating expenses due to the write-off of previously deferred costs related to the terminated Second-Step Conversion.
 
116


Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

Not applicable.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

(a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. Based on their evaluation as of a date within 90 days of the filing of this Annual Report on Form 10K, the Registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-14(c) and 15d-14(c) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) ) are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms.

(b) Management’s report on internal control over financial reporting. The management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
 
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment and those criteria, management concluded that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of the company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by the company’s registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the company to provide only management’s report in this annual report.

117


(c) Changes in internal controls. There were no changes in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f)) that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2007, that have materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
Item 9B. Other Information

Not applicable.

118


PART III

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
Information in response to this item is incorporated by reference to Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

Item 11. Executive Compensation.
Information in response to this item is incorporated by reference to Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
 
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
Information in response to this item is incorporated by reference to Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Information in response to this item is incorporated by reference to Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.
Information in response to this item is incorporated by reference to Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a) Documents filed as a part of this report

1.
Consolidated financial statements.

The consolidated financial statements are set forth under Item 8 of this report on Form 10-K.

2.
Financial statement schedules.

The following information is filed as part of this Form 10-K and should be read should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8:
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

All other schedules have been omitted because they were not applicable or because the required information has been included in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

119


Exhibits
 
   
3.1
Charter of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 1
3.2
Bylaws of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 1
4
Form of Common Stock Certificate of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 1
10.1
Employee Stock Ownership Plan 1
10.2
Employment Agreement with Robert J. Larison, Jr. 2
10.3
Amended and Restated Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement with Robert J. Larison, Jr. 6
10.4
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan 1
10.5
Director Retirement Plan 1
10.6
Director Fee Deferral Plan 1
10.7
Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 2005 Stock Option Plan 3
10.8
Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation 2005 Recognition and Retention Plan 3
10.9
Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreement with Robert J. Larison, Jr. 4
10.10
Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreement with Carl W. Insel 4
10.11
Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreement with Jon C. Parker, Sr. 4
10.12
Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement with Carl W. Insel 5
10.13
Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement with Jon C. Parker, Sr. 5
21
Subsidiaries of Registrant
23.1
Consent of Crowe Chizek and Company LLC
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
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 

 
1
Incorporated by reference to the registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, and any amendments thereto, originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 25, 2004 (Registration No. 333-113923).

2
Incorporated by reference to the registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report, originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 8, 2006.

3
Incorporated by reference to the registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 25, 2005 (Registration No. 333-126861).

4
Incorporated by reference to the registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report, originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 9, 2006.

5
Incorporated by reference to the registrant’s Form 8-K/A Current Report, originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 25, 2007.

6
Incorporated by reference to the registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report, originally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 3, 2006.
 
120


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Section 13 or 15(d) 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.

 
ATLANTIC COAST FEDERAL CORPORATION
Date: March 27, 2008
By:
/s/ Robert J. Larison, Jr.
   
Robert J. Larison, Jr.
   
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacity and on the dates indicated.
 
By:
/s/ Robert J. Larison, Jr.
 
By:
/s/ Dawna R. Miller
 
Robert J. Larison, Jr.
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
   
Dawna R. Miller
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
         
 
Date: March 27, 2008
   
Date: March 27, 2008
         
By:
/s/ Thomas F. Beeckler
 
By:
/s/ Frederick D. Franklin, Jr.
 
Thomas F. Beeckler
Director
   
Frederick D. Franklin, Jr.
Director
         
 
Date: March 27, 2008
   
Date: March 27, 2008
         
By:
/s/ Charles E. Martin, Jr.
 
By:
/s/ W. Eric Palmer
 
Charles E. Martin, Jr.
Director
   
W. Eric Palmer
Director
         
 
Date: March 27, 2008
   
Date: March 27, 2008
         
By:
/s/ Robert J. Smith
 
By:
/s/ Forrest W. Sweat, Jr.
 
Robert J. Smith
Director
   
Forrest W. Sweat, Jr.
Director
         
 
Date: March 27, 2008
   
Date: March 27, 2008
         
By:
/s/ H. Dennis Woods
 
By:
/s/ Jon C. Parker, Sr.
 
H. Dennis Woods
Director
   
Jon C. Parker, Sr. Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and Director
         
 
Date: March 27, 2008
   
Date: March 27, 2008
 
121

 
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Exhibit 21. Subsidiaries of Registrant

Name
  
Parent Company
  
State of Incorporation
         
Atlantic Coast Bank
 
Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation
 
Federal
         
First Community Financial Services, Inc.
 
Atlantic Coast Bank
 
Georgia
         
Atlantic Coast Holdings, Inc.
 
Atlantic Coast Bank
 
Nevada
         
Coastal Properties, Inc.
 
Atlantic Coast Holdings, Inc.
 
Maryland
 
 
 

 
EX-23.1 5 v107909_ex23-1.htm
Exhibit 23.1 Consent of Crowe Chizek and Company LLC

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 333-126861 on Form S-8 of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation of our report dated March 21, 2008 appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2007.

Atlantic
Crowe Chizek and Company LLC
 
Brentwood, Tennessee
March 21, 2008
 
 
 

 
EX-31.1 6 v107909_ex31-1.htm
Exhibit 31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

I, Robert J. Larison, Jr. certify that:

1.I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation;

2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respect the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) for the registrant and have:

 
a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 
b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
 
 
c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 
d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 
a)
all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 
b)
any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
 
Date: March 27, 2008
 
/s/Robert J. Larison, Jr.
Robert J. Larison, Jr.
President and Chief Executive Officer
 

EX-31.2 7 v107909_ex31-2.htm
Exhibit 31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

I, Dawna R. Miller certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation.

2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respect the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) for the registrant and have:

 
a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 
b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 
c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 
d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 
a)
all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 
b)
any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.
 
Date: March 27, 2008
 
/s/Dawna R. Miller
Dawna R. Miller
Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 

 
 
EX-32 8 v107909_ex32.htm
Exhibit 32. Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of
Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
Robert J. Larison, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer, and Dawna R. Miller, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Atlantic Coast Federal Corporation (the “Company”), each certify in their capacity as an officer of the Company that they have reviewed the Annual Report of the Company on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 and that to the best of their knowledge:

 
1.
the report fully complies with the requirements of Sections 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and

 
2.
the information contained in the report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

The purpose of this statement is solely to comply with Title 18, Chapter 63, Section 1350 of the United States Code, as amended by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

Date: March 27, 2008

/s/ Robert J. Larison, Jr.
 
/s/ Dawna R. Miller
 
Robert J. Larison, Jr.
 
Dawna R. Miller
 
President and
 
Senior Vice President and
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
 

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