EX-4.6 4 dp220105_ex0406.htm EXHIBIT 4.6

 

Exhibit 4.6

 

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 

This management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) of operations and financial condition for the third quarter of fiscal 2024, dated September 3, 2024, should be read in conjunction with the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for the period ended July 31, 2024, which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). This MD&A should also be read in conjunction with VersaBank’s MD&A and Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended October 31, 2023, which are available on VersaBank’s website at www.versabank.com, SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar. Except as discussed below, all other factors discussed and referred to in the MD&A for the year ended October 31, 2023, remain substantially unchanged. All currency amounts in this document are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.

 

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 2
About VersaBank 3
Overview of Performance 4
Selected Financial Highlights 8
Business Outlook 9
Financial Review – Earnings 13
Financial Review – Balance Sheet 19
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 27
Related Party Transactions 27
Capital Management and Capital Resources 28
Results of Operating Segments 30
Summary of Quarterly Results 32
Subsequent Event 32
Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures 33
Significant Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates and Judgements 35
Controls and Procedures 35
Additional Information 35

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A1

 

 

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

 

VersaBank’s public communications often include written or oral forward-looking statements. Statements of this type are included in this document and may be included in other filings and with Canadian securities regulators or the US Securities and Exchange Commission, or in other communications. All such statements are made pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of, and are intended to be forward-looking statements under, the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and any applicable Canadian securities legislation. The statements in this management’s discussion and analysis that relate to the future are forward-looking statements. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, many of which are out of VersaBank’s control. Risks exist that predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the plans, objectives, expectations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the strength of the Canadian and US economies in general and the strength of the local economies within Canada and the US in which VersaBank conducts operations; the effects of changes in monetary and fiscal policy, including changes in interest rate policies of the Bank of Canada and the US Federal Reserve; global commodity prices; the effects of competition in the markets in which VersaBank operates; inflation; capital market fluctuations; the timely development and introduction of new products in receptive markets; the impact of changes in the laws and regulations pertaining to financial services; changes in tax laws; technological changes; unexpected judicial or regulatory proceedings; unexpected changes in consumer spending and savings habits; the impact of wars or conflicts and the impact of both on global supply chains and markets; the impact of outbreaks of disease or illness that affect local, national or international economies; the possible effects on our business of terrorist activities; natural disasters and disruptions to public infrastructure, such as transportation, communications, power or water supply; and VersaBank’s anticipation of and success in managing the risks implicated by the foregoing. For a detailed discussion of certain key factors that may affect VersaBank’s future results, please see VersaBank’s annual MD&A for the year ended October 31, 2023.

 

The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. When relying on forward-looking statements to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The forward-looking information contained in the management’s discussion and analysis is presented to assist VersaBank shareholders and others in understanding VersaBank’s financial position and may not be appropriate for any other purposes. Except as required by securities law, VersaBank does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that is contained in this management’s discussion and analysis or made from time to time by VersaBank or on its behalf.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A2

 

 

About VersaBank

 

VersaBank (the “Bank”) adopted an electronic business-to-business model in 1993, becoming (to its knowledge) the world’s first financial institution with a branchless model. It obtains all of its deposits and conducts the majority of its lending digitally through financial intermediaries who subsequently engage with the actual depositors and borrowers. VersaBank is focused on increasing earnings by concentrating on underserved markets that support more attractive pricing and returns for its products, leveraging existing distribution channels to deliver its financial products to these chosen markets and expanding its diverse deposit gathering network that provides efficient access to a range of low-cost deposit sources in order to maintain a low cost of funds.

 

In Canada, the Bank holds a Canadian Schedule 1 chartered bank licence and is regulated by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (“OSFI”). In the United States, the Bank, through its wholly owned subsidiary, VersaBank USA, will hold a national Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”) charter following its recently completed acquisition of Stearns Bank Holdingford and is regulated by the OCC (see Subsequent Event below).

 

In addition to its core Digital Banking operations, VersaBank has established cybersecurity services and banking and financial technology development operations through its wholly-owned subsidiary, DRT Cyber Inc. (“DRTC”).

 

VersaBank’s Common Shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange and Nasdaq under the symbol VBNK. Its Series 1 Preferred Shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol VBNK.PR.A.

 

The underlying drivers of VersaBank’s performance trends for the current and comparative periods are set out in the following sections of this MD&A.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A3

 

 

Overview of Performance

 

 

* See definition in the "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section below.

 

Closing of the acquisition of Stearns Bank Holdingford N.A.

 

ØIn June 2024, the Bank obtained approval from the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the "OCC"), the US Federal Reserve and OSFI (Canada) to acquire Stearns Bank Holdingford N.A. (“SBH”), a privately held, wholly-owned subsidiary of Stearns Financial Services Inc. ("SFSI") based in St. Cloud, Minnesota. On August 30, 2024, the Bank, through its wholly owned US subsidiary VersaHoldings US Corp., completed the acquisition, acquiring 100% of the outstanding shares of SBH for cash consideration of approximately US$14.0 million (CA$19.3 million), subject to closing related adjustments. Based in Minnesota, SBH is a fully operational, OCC-chartered national bank, focused on

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A4

 

 

small business lending. Upon closing, SBH was renamed Versabank USA (See Subsequent Event section below). 

ØSeveral factors associated with preparations for the closing of the acquisition of SBH dampened VersaBank’s third quarter fiscal 2024 financial results. In preparation to fund the capital requirements of the US subsidiary following closing of the SBH acquisition, VersaBank maintained higher than typical cash balances. The higher than typical cash balances exacerbated the impact of the temporary dampening of net interest margin that usually occurs when interest rates decline, the result of the lag in the adjustment of the Bank’s term deposit rates. In addition, non-interest expense was higher due to acquisition-related costs, some of which were specific to the third quarter and some of which are being incurred ahead of asset growth and revenue generated by the launch of US Receivable Purchase Program (“RPP”) in the US through VersaBank USA.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

ØLoans increased 11% to $4.05 billion, driven primarily by continued growth in the Bank’s Point-of-Sale Receivable Purchase Program Loans and Leases (“POS/RPP Financing”) portfolio, which increased 16%;

ØTotal revenue increased 1% to $27.0 million and was composed of net interest income of $24.9 million and non-interest income of $2.1 million;

ØNIM was 2.23% compared with 2.57% and NIM on loans was 2.41% compared with 2.69%. The decreases were due primarily to the strong growth of the POS/RPP Financing portfolio (composed of lower risk-weighted, lower yielding but higher Return on Common Equity (“ROCE”) assets than the Bank’s residential land and construction financing portfolio, also known as the Commercial Real Estate, or “CRE”, portfolio), as well as the impact of temporarily elevated GIC (term deposit) rates relative to Government of Canada bonds due to the adjustment lag typically experienced in a decreasing interest rate environment. The impact of the adjustment lag was exacerbated by the higher cash balances described above. This was offset partially by higher yields earned on the Bank’s lending assets due to the elevated interest rate environment;

ØRecovery of credit losses was $1,000 compared with a provision for credit losses of $171,000 and as a percentage of average loans was 0.00% compared with 0.02%. The Bank’s Provision for credit losses (“PCL”) continues to remain among the lowest of the publicly traded Canadian Schedule 1 (federally licensed) Banks;

ØNon-interest expenses were $13.5 million compared with $12.9 million, with higher acquisition-related costs, some of which were specific to the third quarter and some of which are being incurred ahead of asset growth and revenue generated by the launch of US RPP;

ØNet income decreased 3% to $9.7 million from $10.0 million;

ØEarnings per share (“EPS”) decreased 5% to $0.36 from $0.38;

ØReturn on average common equity decreased 152 bps to 9.63% from 11.15%; and,

ØEfficiency ratio for the Digital Banking operations (excluding DRTC) was 46% compared to 43% last year.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A5

 

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

ØLoans increased 1% to $4.05 billion, driven primarily by continued growth of the POS/RPP Financing portfolio, which increased 4%;

ØTotal revenue decreased 5% to $27.0 million from $28.5 million and was composed of net interest income of $24.9 million and non-interest income of $2.1 million;

ØNIM was 2.23% compared with 2.45% and NIM on loans was 2.41% compared with 2.52%. The decreases were due primarily to the continued growth of the POS/RPP Financing portfolio (which is composed of lower-risk weighted, lower yielding but higher ROCE assets than the CRE portfolio), the impact of increasing liquidity in anticipation of funding the acquisition and injection of capital into SBH in the fourth quarter, as well as the impact of temporarily elevated GIC (term deposit) rates relative to Government of Canada bonds due to the adjustment lag typically experienced in a decreasing interest rate environment;

ØRecovery of credit losses was $1,000 compared with a provision for credit losses of $16,000 and provision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans was 0.00% compared with 0.00%;

ØNon-interest expenses increased 11% to $13.5 million, with higher acquisition-related costs, some of which were specific to the third quarter and some of which are being incurred ahead of asset growth and revenue generated by the launch of US RPP;

ØNet income and earnings per share were $9.7 million and $0.36 per share, respectively, compared with $11.8 million and $0.45 per share, respectively, with the sequential trend reflecting the impact of higher acquisition related costs which lowered the Bank’s NIM to fund the acquisition and reduced the pace of loan origination to manage capital and higher non-interest expense;

ØReturn on average common equity decreased 273 bps to 9.63% on lower earnings; and,

ØEfficiency ratio for the Digital Banking operations (excluding DRTC) was 46% compared to 38% last quarter.

 

Q3 YTD 2024 vs Q3 YTD 2023

 

ØTotal revenue increased 6% to $84.3 million driven by higher net interest income attributable substantially to strong loan growth and higher non-interest income derived from growth in the revenue contribution of DRTC;

ØNIM was 2.38% compared with 2.72% and NIM on loans was 2.58% compared with 2.89%. The decreases were due primarily to the strong growth of the POS/RPP Financing portfolio (composed of lower-risk weighted, lower yielding but higher ROCE assets than the CRE portfolio) and the impact of the planned transition of some higher yielding, higher risk-weighted CRE loans to lower yielding, but lower risk-weighted CRE loans as part of the Bank’s strategy to capitalize on opportunities for lower- risk loans with a higher return on capital deployed, as well as the impact of temporarily elevated GIC (term deposit) rates relative to Government of Canada bonds due to the adjustment lag typically experienced in a decreasing interest rate environment;

ØRecovery of credit losses was $112,000 compared with a provision for credit losses of $793,000 last year;

ØProvision for credit losses as a percentage of average loans was 0.00% compared with 0.03% last year;

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A6

 

 

ØNon-interest expenses decreased 1% to $37.7 million;

ØNet income increased 15% to $34.2 million;

ØEarnings per share increased 17% to $1.29, with the trend reflecting the impact of a lower number of common shares outstanding as a result of the purchase and cancellation of common shares under the Bank’s Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”) over the course of fiscal 2023;

ØReturn on average common equity increased 55 bps to 11.79%; and,

ØEfficiency ratio for the Digital Banking operations (excluding DRTC) was 41% compared to 43% last year.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A7

 

 

Selected Financial Highlights

 

(unaudited) for the three months ended  for the nine months ended 
(thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
  July 31
2024
  July 31,
2023
Results of operations                    
Interest income  $71,646   $60,089   $212,181   $163,245 
Net interest income   24,944    24,929    77,754    73,812 
Non-interest income   2,052    1,930    6,594    5,650 
Total revenue   26,996    26,859    84,348    79,462 
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses   (1)   171    (112)   793 
Non-interest expenses   13,534    12,879    37,743    37,940 
Digital Banking   11,498    10,758    31,927    31,600 
DRTC   2,378    2,312    6,834    6,914 
Net income   9,705    10,003    34,232    29,683 
Income per common share:                  
Basic  $0.36   $0.38   $1.29   $1.10 
Diluted  $0.36   $0.38   $1.29   $1.10 
Dividends paid on preferred shares  $247   $247   $741   $741 
Dividends paid on common shares  $650   $648   $1,950   $1,962 
Yield*   6.40%   6.19%   6.50%   6.02%
Cost of funds*   4.17%   3.62%   4.12%   3,30%
Net interest margin*   2.23%   2.57%   2.38%   2.72%
Net interest margin on loans*   2.41%   2.69%   2.58%   2.89%
Return on average common equity*   9.63%%   11.15%   11.79%   11.24%
Book value per common share*  $15.23   $13.55   $15.23   $13.55 
Efficiency ratio*   50%   48%   45%   48%
Efficiency ratio – Digital Banking*   46%   43%   41%   43%
Return on average total assets*   0.85%   1.00%   1.03%   1.07%
Provision (recovery) for credit losses as a % of average loans*   0.00%   0.02%   0.00%   0.03%
         as at         
Balance Sheet Summary                    
Cash  $247,983   $87,726   $247,983   $87,726 
Securities   153,026    182,944    153,026    182,944 
Loans, net of allowance for credit losses   4,049,449    3,661,672    4,049,449    3,661,672 
Average loans   4,033,954    3,540,564    3,949,927    3,327,175 
Total assets   4,516,436    3,980,845    4,516,436    3,980,845 
Deposits   3,821,185    3,328,017    3,821,185    3,328,017 
Subordinated notes payable   101,641    101,585    101,641    101,585 
Shareholders’ equity   408,985    365,043    408,985    365,043 
Capital ratios**                    
Risk-weighted assets  $3,273,524   $3,047,172   $3,273,524   $3,047,172 
Common Equity Tier 1 capital   384,496    339,894    384,496    339,894 
Total regulatory capital   504,112    460,065    504,112    460,065 
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio   11.75%   11.15%   11.75%   11.15%
Tier 1 capital ratio   12.16%   11.60%   12.16%   11.60%
Total capital ratio   15.40    15.10%   15.40%   15.10%
Leverage ratio   8.54%   8.53%   8.54%   8.53%

* See definition in "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section below.

** Capital management and leverage measures are in accordance with OSFI's Capital Adequacy Requirements and Basel III Accord.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A8

 

 

Business Outlook

 

VersaBank is active in underserved banking markets in Canada and the US in which its innovative, value- added, business-to-business (B2B) digital banking products command more attractive pricing for its lending products, and further, continues to develop and expand its diverse deposit gathering network that provides efficient access to a range of low-cost deposit sources. In addition, VersaBank remains highly committed to, and focused on, further developing and enhancing its technology advantage, a key component of its value proposition that not only provides efficient access to VersaBank’s chosen underserved lending and deposit markets, but also delivers superior financial products and better customer service to its clients.

 

Management is closely monitoring geo-political, economic and financial market risk precipitated by current wars or conflicts and major national and international events, their potential impact on VersaBank’s business. At this time, management has not identified any material adverse direct or indirect risk exposure to VersaBank resulting from these risks but will continue to assess the relevant data and information as it becomes available.

 

While VersaBank does not provide guidance on specific performance metrics, the commentary provided below discusses aspects of VersaBank’s business and certain anticipated trends related to same that, in management’s view, could potentially impact future performance.

 

US Operations

 

ØOn August 30, 2024, VersaBank, through its wholly owned US subsidiary VersaHoldings US Corp., acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of SBH, for cash consideration of approximately US$14.0 million (CA$19.3 million), subject to post closing related adjustments. Under the acquisition, VersaBank acquired US$61.1 million in assets and assumed US$54.1 million in deposits and other liabilities and renamed SBH as VersaBank USA. VersaBank USA holds a national license. The acquisition will provide the Bank with access to US deposits to support the growth of its Receivable Purchase Program business, which the Bank launched in the US in Fiscal 2022. The acquisition is expected to be accretive to the Bank’s earnings per share within the first year after closing; and, VersaBank USA was well capitalized, as per the OCC’s definition of same, with a Total Capital ratio in excess of 10% as of August 30, 2024.

 

Lending Assets

 

ØCanadian Point-of-Sale Financing: Consumer spending and business investment in Canada are expected to remain steady over the course of fiscal 2024 and into the start of fiscal 2025 following modest contraction in growth the prior year with the impact of higher interest rates, inflationary pressures (albeit moderated from those recently) and a softening labour market still countering GDP growth. Management, however, is seeing a slightly greater impact of the elevated interest rate environment and softness in the consumer spending on the POS/RPP Financing portfolio volumes. It remains management’s view that the impact of the continued softness in consumer spending on the Bank’s POS/RPP Financing portfolio in fiscal 2024 will be mitigated by the onboarding of new origination

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A9

 

 

partners and the continued expansion of business with existing partners over the balance of the year and into fiscal 2025. As a result, management expects to see continued growth in the Canadian POS/RPP Financing portfolio in the final quarter of fiscal 2024;

 

ØUS Receivable Purchase Program (“RPP”): Despite higher interest rates and continuing inflationary pressures in the US, the US labour market remains resilient, which, combined with the broad expectation that the US Federal Reserve’s tightening cycle has come to an end will continue to support consumer spending. Management views the current trajectory of the US economy to be favourable in the context of continued, stable demand for durable goods due primarily to enduring consumption. Management believes that the anticipated US macroeconomic and industry trends described above will continue to support healthy demand in the Bank’s RPP portfolio over the remainder of fiscal 2024 and into the next fiscal year, which would be expected to contribute meaningful additional growth through VersaBank USA to broadly launch its RPP business; and,

 

ØCommercial Real Estate (Business-to-Business Loans with Credit Risk Exposure Predominantly Related to Residential Properties): Notwithstanding the effective risk mitigation strategies that are employed in managing the Bank’s CRE portfolios, including working with well-established, well-capitalized partners and maintaining modest loan-to-value ratios on individual transactions, management continues to take a cautionary stance with respect to its broader CRE exposures due to volatility in CRE asset valuations and the potential impact of higher interest rates on borrowers’ ability to service debt. While management has and will continue to focus on multi-family insured mortgages in fiscal 2024, it is also anticipated that the Bank’s CRE portfolio asset mix will continue to transition into lower risk weighted insured assets that will drive moderate portfolio growth in fiscal 2024.

 

Credit Quality

 

ØVersaBank lends to underserved markets that support more attractive pricing for its lending products but typically exhibit a lower-than-average risk profile due primarily to the lower inherent risk associated with the underlying collateral assets and/or the structure of VersaBank’s offered financing arrangements; and,

 

ØBased on available forward-looking macroeconomic and industry data (as described above), as well as the Bank’s historical credit experience, current underwriting governance, and general expectations for credit performance, management anticipates that the existing level of credit risk in its portfolio may increase modestly during fiscal 2024 and into fiscal 2025 due primarily to any economic softness and elevated interest rate environments in Canada and/or the US and the ability of consumers and businesses to service debt in such an environment. Further, management expects that the lower risk profile of VersaBank’s unique business to business lending portfolio, which is a function of VersaBank’s prudent underwriting practices, structured lending products and focus on underserved financing markets within which it has a wealth of experience, will contribute to mitigating any modest increases in forward credit risk in the Bank’s lending portfolio.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A10

 

 

Funding and Liquidity

 

ØManagement expects that commercial deposits raised via VersaBank’s Trustee Integrated Banking (“TIB”) program will continue to grow throughout fiscal 2024 and into fiscal 2025 due primarily to higher volumes of consumer and commercial bankruptcy and proposal restructuring proceedings, attributable primarily to the impact of current economic conditions. In addition, VersaBank continues to pursue a number of initiatives to grow and expand its well-established, diverse deposit broker network through which it sources personal deposits, consisting primarily of guaranteed investment certificates. The Bank’s current deposit channels remain an efficient, reliable and diversified source of funding, providing access to ample reasonably priced deposits in volumes that comfortably support the Bank’s liquidity requirements. Substantially all of the Bank’s deposit volumes raised through these channels are eligible for CDIC insurance;

 

ØManagement believes that VersaBank has one of the lowest liquidity risk profiles among North American banks attributable to the quality, stability and stickiness of its deposit base. VersaBank’s Canadian deposits are sourced through existing, third-party distribution channels, specifically wealth management firms that distribute the Bank’s term deposit products and Licensed Insolvency Trustee firms that invest in the Bank’s demand and term deposit products. Currently, the Bank does not accept deposits directly from individuals and does not offer high interest-bearing demand deposit products that are accessible to the public via the internet. With the acquisition of SBH, the Bank will assume US deposits of approximately US$54.1 million (CA$74.7 million), which would include balances from individuals directly, however this would only represent approximately 2% of the Bank’s total deposits; and,

 

ØAside from the recent funding activities to support the acquisition of SBH, liquidity levels are expected to remain reasonably consistent throughout fiscal 2024 and management anticipates this trend to continue for the remainder of fiscal 2024 and into the start of fiscal 2025 as the Bank continues to fund anticipated balance sheet growth across each of its lines of business. Further, management will continue to deploy cash into low risk, government securities with the objective of earning a more favourable yield on its available liquidity.

 

Earnings and Capital

 

ØEarnings growth for the remainder of fiscal 2024 and into the start of fiscal 2025 is expected to be a function primarily of anticipated organic balance sheet growth from its existing Digital Banking operations, specifically, continued expansion of the Bank’s POS/RPP Financing and RPP portfolios in Canada and the US, respectively. Following the acquisition of SBH, the Bank anticipates modest accretive earnings growth from the assets acquired and increased RPP lending through SBH. Digital Banking’s Canadian operations will continue to benefit from the operating leverage inherent in its branchless, business-to-business model, as well as incremental contributions from DRTC;

 

ØNet interest income growth for the remainder of fiscal 2024 and into the start of fiscal 2025 is expected to be a function primarily of continued expansion of the Bank’s POS/RPP Financing and RPP portfolios in Canada and the US, respectively, disciplined liquidity management and the expectation that growth

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A11

 

 

in the TIB program in fiscal 2024 and further expansion of the Bank’s diverse deposit broker network should have a favourable impact on cost of funds although the Bank expects that it could see more volatility in NIM due to the dynamics of the term deposit market;

 

ØNon-interest income growth for fiscal 2024 and into the start of fiscal 2025 is expected to be a function primarily of DRTC revenue growth derived from its suite of cybersecurity services;

 

ØVersaBank’s capital ratios remain comfortably in excess of management’s limits, as well as regulatory minimums and expectations. Management is of the view that VersaBank’s current capital levels are sufficient to accommodate balance sheet growth contemplated for fiscal 2024 and into 2025. However, management believes that demand for its POS/RPP Financing solution, which was recently launched in the United States, could exceed the Bank's lending capacity under its current capital ratios and, accordingly, will monitor the capital markets for the option to raise additional regulatory capital on attractive terms to capitalize on this opportunity in a manner that would be accretive to earnings; and,

 

ØManagement does not anticipate increasing VersaBank’s dividends over the course of fiscal 2024 to ensure that it continues to have adequate regulatory capital available to support contemplated balance sheet growth, as well as specific business development initiatives for earnings growth currently contemplated over the same timeframe and remain in compliance with its established regulatory capital ratio targets and thresholds.

 

There is potential that VersaBank may not realize or achieve the anticipated performance trends set out above due to a number of factors and variables including, but not limited to, the strength of the Canadian and US economies in general and the strength of the local economies in which VersaBank conducts operations; the effects of changes in monetary and fiscal policy, including changes in the interest rate policies of the Bank of Canada and the US Federal Reserve; global commodity prices; the effects of competition in the markets in which VersaBank operates; inflation; capital market fluctuations; the timely development and introduction of new products in receptive markets; the ability of VersaBank to grow its business and execute its strategy in the US market; the impact of changes in the laws and regulations regulating financial services; the impact of wars or conflicts and the impact of outbreaks of disease or illness that affect local, national or international economies. Please see “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward- Looking Statements” on page 2 of this MD&A.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A12

 

 

Financial Review – Earnings

 

Total Revenue

 

Total revenue, which consists of net interest income and non-interest income, for the quarter ended July 31, 2024 increased 1% to $27.0 million compared with the same period a year ago and decreased 5% compared with last quarter. Total revenue for the nine months ended July 31, 2024 increased 6% to $84.3 million compared with the same period a year ago.

 

Net Interest Income

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)      
   For the three months ended:  For the nine months ended:
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  Change  July 31,
2023
  Change  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
  Change
Interest income                                        
Point-of-sale loans and leases  $48,775   $47,414    3%  $38,013    28%  $141,761   $104,230    36%
Commercial real estate mortgages   17,347    18,191    (5)%   17,705    (2)%   54,553    48,073    13%
Commercial real estate loans   154    155    (1)%   161    (4)%   443    503    (12)%
Public sector and other financing   338    336    1%   327    3%   1,029    959    7%
Other   5,032    5,147    (2)%   3,883    30%   14,395    9,480    52%
Interest income  $71,646   $71,243    1%  $60,089    19%  $212,181   $163,245    30%
                                         
Interest expense                                        
Deposit and other  $43,357   $43,469    4%  $33,725    34%  $130,097   $85,100    53%
Subordinated notes   1,345    1,532    (12)%   1,435    (6)%   4,330    4,333    0%
Interest expense  $46,702   $45,001    4%  $35,160    33%  $134,427   $89,433    50%
                                         
Net interest income  $24,944   $26,242    (5)%  $24,929    0%  $77,754   $73,812    5%
                                         
Non-interest income  $2,052   $2,259    (9)%  $1,930    6%  $6,594   $5,650    17%
Total revenue  $26,996   $28,501    (5)%  $26,859    1%  $84,348   $79,462    6%

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

Net interest income increased marginally to $24.9 million due primarily to:

 

ØHigher interest income attributable to continued POS/RPP lending asset growth and higher overall yields consistent with the elevated interest rate environment.

 

Offset partially by:

 

ØLower CRE lending asset balance in the current quarter due to timing of loan origination;

ØThe impact of the planned transition of some higher yielding, higher risk-weighted CRE loans to lower yielding, lower risk-weighted CRE loans as part of the Bank’s strategy to capitalize on opportunities for lower-risk loans with a higher return on capital deployed; and,

ØHigher interest expense attributable to higher deposit balances to fund balance sheet growth across each of its lines of business and the acquisition of SBH, as well as higher cost of funds consistent with the elevated interest rate environment.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A13

 

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

Net interest income decreased 5% due primarily to:

 

ØLower CRE lending asset balance in the current quarter due to timing of loan origination;

ØThe impact of the planned transition of some higher yielding, higher risk-weighted CRE loans to lower yielding, lower risk-weighted CRE loans as part of the Bank’s strategy to capitalize on opportunities for lower-risk loans with a higher return on capital deployed; and,

ØHigher interest expense attributable to higher deposit balances to fund balance sheet growth across each of its lines of business and the acquisition of SBH, as well as higher cost of funds consistent with the elevated interest rate environment.

 

Offset partially by:

 

ØHigher interest income attributable to continued POS/RPP lending asset growth.

 

Q3 YTD 2024 vs Q3 YTD 2023

 

Net interest income increased 5% due primarily to:

 

ØHigher interest income attributable to continued POS/RPP lending asset growth and higher yields consistent with the elevated interest rate environment.

 

Offset partially by:

 

ØLower CRE lending asset balance due to timing of loan origination;

ØThe impact of the planned transition of some higher yielding, higher risk-weighted CRE loans to lower yielding, lower risk-weighted CRE loans as part of the Bank’s strategy to capitalize on opportunities for lower-risk loans with a higher return on capital deployed; and,

ØHigher interest expense attributable to higher deposit balances and higher cost of funds consistent with the elevated interest rate environment.

 

Net Interest Margin

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)      
   For the three months ended:  For the nine months ended:
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  Change  July 31,
2023
  Change  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
  Change
Interest income  $71,646   $71,243    1%  $60,089    19%  $212,181   $163,245    30%
Interest expense   46,702    45,001    4%   35,160    33%   134,427    89,433    50%
Net interest income   24,944    26,242    (5)%   24,929    0%   77,754    73,812    5%
                                         
Average assets  $4,452,378   $4,348,978    2%  $3,855,119    15%  $4,359,023   $3,623,422    20%
Yield*   6.40%   6.66%   (4)%   6.19%   3%   6.50%   6.02%   8%
Cost of funds*   4.17%   4.21%   (1)%   3.62%   15%   4.12%   3.30%   25%
Net interest margin*   2.23%   2.45%   (9)%   2.57%   (13)%   2.38%   2.72%   (13)%
Average gross loans  $4,014,653   $3,982,164    1%  $3,525,286    14%  $3,931,191   $3,312,781    19%
Net interest margin on loans*   2.41%   2.52%   (4)%   2.69%   (10)%   2.58%   2.89%   (11)%

* See definition in "Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures" section below.

 

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A14

 

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

Net interest margin decreased 34 bps due primarily to:

 

ØContinued growth in the POS/RPP Financing portfolio, which is composed of lower risk-weighted, lower yielding assets;

ØLower CRE lending asset balance and the impact of the planned transition of some higher yielding, higher risk-weighted CRE loans to lower yielding, lower risk-weighted CRE loans as part of the Bank’s strategy to capitalize on opportunities for lower-risk loans with a higher return on capital deployed;

ØHigher cost of funds due to higher rates on term deposits which also increased to fund balance sheet growth across each of its lines of business and the acquisition of SBH; and,

ØThe impact of temporarily elevated GIC (term deposit) rates relative to Government of Canada bonds due to the adjustment lag typically experienced in a decreasing interest rate environment.

 

Offset partially by:

 

ØHigher yields earned on the Bank’s lending and treasury assets, generally, due primarily to the elevated interest rate environment.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

Net interest margin decreased 22 bps due primarily to:

 

ØContinuing growth in the POS/RPP Financing portfolio which is composed of lower risk-weighted, lower yielding assets;

ØLower CRE lending asset balance and the impact of the planned transition of some higher yielding, higher risk-weighted CRE loans to lower yielding, lower risk-weighted CRE loans as part of the Bank’s strategy to capitalize on opportunities for lower-risk loans with a higher return on capital deployed;

ØHigher cost of funds attributable to higher rates paid on term deposits during the quarter amidst higher rates in the term deposit market in Canada; and,

ØThe impact of temporarily elevated GIC (term deposit) rates relative to Government of Canada bonds due to the adjustment lag typically experienced in a decreasing interest rate environment.

 

Offset partially by:

 

ØHigher yields earned on the Bank’s lending and treasury assets. While interest income increased 1%, the growth was dampened by timing of expected loan originations.

 

Q3 YTD 2024 vs Q3 YTD 2023

 

Net interest margin decreased 34 bps due primarily to the trends noted in the quarterly results above.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A15

 

 

Non-Interest Income

 

Non-interest income is composed of revenue generated by DRTC which includes the gross profit of Digital Boundary Group (“DBG”), as well as income derived from miscellaneous transaction fees not directly attributable to lending assets.

 

Non-interest income for the quarter ended July 31, 2024 was $2.1 million compared with $1.9 million for the same period a year ago and $2.3 million last quarter and was composed substantially of the consolidated gross profit of DBG. The year-over-year and quarter-over-quarter trends were a function primarily of the timing of client engagements.

 

Non-interest income for the nine months ended July 31, 2024 was $6.6 million compared with $5.7 million for the same period a year ago. The year-over-year trend was due primarily to increased client engagements in the current year.

 

Provision for Credit Losses

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)   
   For the three months ended  For the nine months ended
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  July 31,
2023
  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
                
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses:                         
Point-of-sale loans and leases  $358   $142   $19   $465   $101 
Commercial real estate mortgages   (342)   (164)   139    (622)   619 
Commercial real estate loans   1    3    (9)   17    (4)
Public sector and other financing   (18)   35    22    28    77 
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses  $(1)  $16   $171   $(112)  $793 

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

VersaBank recorded a recovery of credit losses in the amount of $1,000 in the current quarter compared with a provision for credit losses in the amount of $171,000 last year due primarily to:

 

ØChanges in the forward-looking information used by the Bank in its credit risk models; and,

ØA recalibration of the Bank’s calculation in the POS/RPP Financing portfolio to align more closely with empirical data and general credit performance.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

VersaBank recorded a recovery of credit losses in the amount of $1,000 in the current quarter compared with a provision for credit losses in the amount of $16,000 last quarter due primarily to:

 

ØChanges in the forward-looking information used by the Bank in its credit risk models.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A16

 

 

Q3 YTD 2024 vs Q3 YTD 2023

 

VersaBank recorded a recovery of credit losses in the amount of $112,000 compared with a provision for credit losses in the amount of $793,000 last year due primarily to:

 

ØChanges in the forward-looking information used by the Bank in its credit risk models; and,

ØA recalibration of the calculation in the POS/RPP Financing portfolio to align more closely with empirical data and general credit performance.

 

Non-Interest Expenses

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)   
   For the three months ended:  For the nine months ended:
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  Change  July 31,
2023
  Change  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
  Change
Salaries and benefits  $7,507   $7,409    1%  $7,453    1%  $21,454   $24,139    (11)%
General and administrative   4,833    3,557    36%   4,446    9%   12,723    10,888    17%
Premises and equipment   1,194    1,219    (2)%   980    22%   3,566    2,913    22%
Total non-interest expenses  $13,534   $12,185    11%  $12,879    5%  $37,743   $37,940    (1)%
Efficiency Ratio   50%   43%   17%   48%   4%   45%   48%   (6)%

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

Non-interest expenses increased 5% to $13.5 million due primarily to:

 

ØPrior year favourable adjustment to capital tax expense attributable to a shift in the provincial allocation of the Bank’s loan and deposit originations; and,

ØHigher general operating costs consistent with increased business activities, including costs being incurred ahead of anticipated asset growth and revenue generated by the launch of US RPP through VersaBank USA.

 

Offset partially by:

 

ØLower professional fees related primarily to the advancement of the regulatory approval process for the Bank’s proposed acquisition of a US bank.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

Non-interest expenses increased 11% due primarily to:

 

ØHigher professional fees attributable to the continuing regulatory approval process associated with VersaBank’s acquisition of a US bank;

ØAdjustments in compensation obligations in the comparable quarter; and,

ØHigher general operating costs consistent with increased business activities, including costs being incurred ahead of anticipated asset growth and revenue generated by the launch of US RPP through VersaBank USA.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A17

 

 

Q3 YTD 2024 vs Q3 YTD 2023

 

Non-interest expenses decreased 1% due primarily to:

 

ØLower general annual compensation adjustments; and,

ØLower professional fees related primarily to the advancement of the regulatory approval process for the Bank’s proposed acquisition of a US bank.

 

Offset partially by:

 

ØPrior year favourable adjustment to capital tax expense attributable to a shift in the provincial allocation of the Bank’s loan and deposit originations; and,

ØHigher general operating costs consistent with increased business activities, including costs being incurred ahead of anticipated asset growth and revenue generated by the launch of US RPP through VersaBank USA.

 

Income Tax Provision

 

VersaBank’s year to date effective tax rate is approximately 27% compared with approximately 27% for fiscal 2023.The Bank’s effective tax rate in the current year was due primarily to the impact of deferred tax assets recognized in the current period associated with tax loss carry forwards which are anticipated to be applied to future taxable earnings and lower non-deductible expenses associated with employee stock options, which were issued as part of the Bank’s employee retention program in early fiscal 2022. Provision for income taxes for the current quarter was $3.8 million compared with $3.8 million for the same period a year ago and $4.5 million last quarter. Provision for income taxes for the nine months ended July 31, 2024 was $12.5 million compared with $11.0 million for the same period a year ago.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A18

 

 

Financial Review – Balance Sheet

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)               
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  Change  July 31
2023
  Change
Total assets  $4,516,436   $4,388,320    3%  $3,980,845    13%
Cash and securities   401,009    302,577    33%   270,670    48%
Loans, net of allowance for credit losses   4,049,449    4,018,458    1%   3,661,672    11%
Deposits   3,821,185    3,693,495    3%   3,328,017    15%

 

Total Assets

 

 

 

 

Total assets as at July 31, 2024, were $4.52 billion compared with $3.98 billion a year ago and $4.39 billion last quarter. The year-over-year and sequential increases were due primarily to growth in VersaBank’s POS/RPP Financing portfolio. The modest sequential asset growth reflects the seasonality in the POS/RPP Financing portfolio and the impact of softness in the Canadian economy and elevated interest rates.

 

Cash and securities

 

Cash and securities, which are held primarily for liquidity purposes as at July 31, 2024 were $401.0 million or 9% of total assets, compared with $270.7 million, or 7% of total assets, a year ago and $302.6 million,

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A19

 

 

or 7% of total assets, last quarter. The year-over-year and sequential trends were primarily attributable to the anticipated funding related to the acquisition of SBH.

 

As at July 31, 2024, the Bank held securities totalling $153.0 million (October 31, 2023 - $167.9 million), including accrued interest, comprised of a Government of Canada Treasury Bill for $150.0 million with a face value of $150.0 million at maturity on August 1, 2024, yielding 4.51%, and a Government of Canada Bond for $3.0 million with a face value totaling $3.0 million, yielding 4.76%, with a 3.75% coupon and maturing on May 1, 2025.

 

Loans

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)               
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  Change  July 31
2023
  Change
Point-of-sale loans and leases  $3,228,354   $3,114,024    4%  $2,776,126    16%
Commercial real estate mortgages   736,345    819,853    (10)%   810,630    (9)%
Commercial real estate loans   8,523    8,612    (1)%   9,298    (8)%
Public sector and other financings   56,923    56,671    0%   49,627    15%
    4,030,145    3,999,160    1%   3,645,681    11%
Allowance for credit losses   (2,401)   (2,402)        (2,697)     
Accrued interest   21,705    21,700         18,688      
Total loans, net allowance for credit losses  $4,049,449   $4,018,458    1%  $3,661,672    11%

 

VersaBank organizes its lending portfolio into the following four broad asset categories: Point-of-Sale Loans & Leases, Commercial Real Estate Mortgages, Commercial Real Estate Loans, and Public Sector and Other Financing. These categories have been established in VersaBank’s proprietary, internally developed asset management system and have been designed to catalogue individual lending assets as a function primarily of their key risk drivers, the nature of the underlying collateral, and the applicable market segment.

 

The Point-of-Sale Loans and Leases Receivable Purchase Program (“POS/RPP Financing”) asset category is composed of Point-of-Sale Loan and Lease Receivables acquired from VersaBank’s network of origination and servicing partners in Canada and the US as well as Warehouse Loans that provide bridge financing to VersaBank’s origination and servicing partners for the purpose of accumulating and seasoning practical volumes of individual loans and leases prior to VersaBank purchasing the cashflow receivables derived from same.

 

The Commercial Real Estate Mortgages (“CRE Mortgages”) asset category is comprised primarily of Residential Construction, Term, CMHC Insured and Land Mortgages. All of these loans are business-to- business loans with the underlying credit risk exposure being primarily consumer in nature given that the vast majority (approximately 93% as at July 31, 2024) of the loans are related to properties that are designated primarily for residential use. The portfolio benefits from diversity in its underlying security in the form of a broad range of such collateral properties.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A20

 

 

The Commercial Real Estate Loans (“CRE Loans”) asset category is comprised primarily of Condominium Corporation Financing loans.

 

The Public Sector and Other Financing (“PSOF”) asset category is comprised primarily of Public Sector Loans and Leases, a small balance of Corporate Loans and Leases and Single Family Residential Conventional and Insured Mortgages. VersaBank has de-emphasized Corporate lending and continues to monitor the public sector space in anticipation of more robust demand for Federal, Provincial and Municipal infrastructure and other project financings.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

Loans increased 11% to $4.05 billion due primarily to:

 

ØHigher POS/RPP Financing balances, which increased 16% year-over-year due primarily to consistent strong demand for home improvement/HVAC receivable financing.

 

Offset partially by:

 

ØLower commercial lending balances due to timing of loan originations.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

Loans increased 1% due primarily to:

 

ØHigher POS/RPP Financing balances, which increased 4% sequentially.

 

Offset partially by:

 

ØLower commercial lending balances due to timing of loan originations.

 

Residential Mortgage Exposures

 

In accordance with the OSFI Guideline B-20 – Residential Mortgage Underwriting Practices and Procedures, additional information is provided regarding the Bank’s residential mortgage exposure. For the purposes of the Guideline, a residential mortgage is defined as a loan to an individual that is secured by residential property (one-to-four-unit dwellings) and includes home equity lines of credit (“HELOCs”). This differs from the classification of residential mortgages used by the Bank which also includes multi-family residential mortgages.

 

Under OSFI’s definition, the Bank’s exposure to residential mortgages at July 31, 2024 was $4.2 million compared with $4.3 million a year ago and $4.2 million last quarter. The Bank does not currently offer residential mortgages to the public. The Bank did not have any HELOCs outstanding at July 31, 2024, last quarter or a year ago.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A21

 

 

Credit Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses

 

VersaBank closely monitors its lending portfolio, the portfolio’s underlying borrowers, as well as its origination partners in order to ensure that management maintains good visibility on credit trends that could provide an early warning indication of the emergence of any elevated risk in VersaBank’s lending portfolio.

 

Allowance for Credit Losses

 

The Bank must maintain an allowance for expected credit losses that is adequate, in management’s opinion, to absorb all credit related losses in the Bank’s lending and treasury portfolios. The expected credit loss methodology requires the recognition of credit losses based on 12 months of expected losses for performing loans which is reflected in the Bank’s Stage 1 grouping. The Bank recognizes lifetime expected losses on loans that have experienced a significant increase in credit risk since origination which is reflected in the Bank’s Stage 2 grouping. While there is elevated credit risk in the Bank’s POS/RPP Financing portfolio as at the measurement date, management does not believe that this represents significant increase in credit risk in that portfolio and the majority of this portfolio remains in Stage 1. Impaired loans require recognition of lifetime losses and is reflected in the Stage 3 grouping.

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)               
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  Change  July 31
2023
  Change
ECL allowance by lending asset:                         
Point-of-sale loans and leases  $565   $207    173%  $646    (13)%
Commercial real estate mortgages   1,600    1,942    (18)%   1906    (16)%
Commercial real estate loans   59    58    2%   50    18%
Public sector and other financings   177    195    (9)%   05    86%
Total ECL allowance  $2,401   $2,402    0%  $2,697    (11)%

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)               
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  Change  July 31
2023
  Change
ECL allowance by stage:                         
ECL allowance stage 1  $2,002   $2,093    (4)%  $2,425    (17)%
ECL allowance stage 2   399    309    29%   272    47%
ECL allowance stage 3   -    -         -      
Total ECL allowance  $2,401   $2,402    0%  $2,697    (11)%

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

VersaBank’s ECL allowance as at July 31, 2024, was $2.40 million compared with $2.70 million a year ago due primarily to:

 

ØChanges in the forward-looking information used by the Bank in its credit risk models; and,

ØA recalibration of the Bank’s calculation in the POS/RPP Financing portfolio to align more closely with empirical data and general credit performance.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A22

 

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

VersaBank’s ECL allowance as at July 31, 2024, was $2.40 million compared with $2.40 million last quarter.

 

Forward-looking information

 

The Bank has sourced credit risk modeling systems and forecast macroeconomic scenario data from Moody’s Analytics, a third-party service provider for the purpose of computing forward-looking credit risk parameters under multiple macroeconomic scenarios that consider both market-wide and idiosyncratic factors and influences. The macroeconomic indicator data utilized by the Bank for the purpose of sensitizing probability of default and loss given default term structure data to forward economic conditions include, but are not limited to: real GDP, the national unemployment rate, long term interest rates, the consumer price index, the S&P/TSX Index and the price of oil. These specific macroeconomic indicators were selected in an attempt to ensure that the spectrum of fundamental macroeconomic influences on the key drivers of the credit risk profile of the Bank’s balance sheet, including: corporate, consumer and real estate market dynamics; corporate, consumer and SME borrower performance; geography; as well as collateral value volatility, are appropriately captured and incorporated into the Bank’s forward macroeconomic sensitivity analysis.

 

Key assumptions driving Moody’s Analytics’ baseline macroeconomic forecast trends this quarter include: the Bank of Canada cutting interest rates at its September and December policy meetings; the Canadian economy returning to modest growth in late 2024 and early 2025 and inflation approaching the Bank of Canada’s target by the end of 2024; elevated debt service obligations strain household finances but result in only modest loan deterioration; high financing costs and low sales volumes cause home prices to contract until the end of the 2024 when falling interest rates help rejuvenate demand; the various military conflicts continue but do not escalate to other regional powers; supply-chain bottlenecks continue to ease which aids in moderating inflation; outbreaks of disease or illness have very little economic impact; and global oil prices stabilize with West Texas Intermediate in the low US $80 per barrel range until early 2025.

 

Management developed ECL estimates using credit risk parameter term structure forecasts sensitized to individual baseline, upside and downside forecast macroeconomic scenarios, each weighted at 100%, and subsequently computed the variance of each to the Bank’s reported ECL as at July 31, 2024 in order to assess the alignment of the Bank’s reported ECL with the Bank’s credit risk profile, and further, to assess the scope, depth and ultimate effectiveness of the credit risk mitigation strategies that the Bank has applied to its lending portfolios (see Expected Credit Loss Sensitivity below).

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A23

 

 

A summary of the key forecast macroeconomic indicator data trends utilized by VersaBank for the purpose of sensitizing lending asset credit risk parameter term structure forecasts to forward looking information, which in turn are used in the estimation of VersaBank’s reported ECL, as well as in the assessment of same are presented in the charts below.

 

 

 

Expected Credit Loss Sensitivity:

 

The following table presents the sensitivity of the Bank’s estimated ECL to a range of individual forecast macroeconomic scenarios, that in isolation may not reflect the Bank’s actual expected ECL exposure, as well as the variance of each to the Bank’s reported ECL as at July 31, 2024:

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)            
   Reported ECL  100%
Upside
  100%
Baseline
  100%
Downside
Allowance for expected credit losses  $2,401   $1,574   $1,867   $2,570 
Variance from reported ECL        (827)   (534)   169 
Variance from reported ECL (%)        (34)%   (22)%   7%

 

The uncertainty associated with the directionality, velocity and magnitude of both interest rates and inflation as well as the general uncertainty associated with the broader Canadian and US economies may result in VersaBank’s estimated ECL amounts exhibiting some future volatility which in turn may result in the Bank recognizing higher provisions for credit losses in the coming quarters.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A24

 

 

Considering the analysis set out above and based on management’s review of the loan and credit data comprising VersaBank’s lending portfolio, combined with management’s interpretation of the available forecast macroeconomic and industry data, management is of the view that its reported ECL allowance represents a reasonable proxy for potential future losses.

 

Deposits

 

VersaBank has established three core funding channels, those being personal deposits, commercial deposits, and cash reserves retained from VersaBank’s POS/RPP Financing origination partners that are classified as other liabilities.

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)               
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  Change  July 31
2023
  Change
Commercial deposits  $706,918   $672,382    5%  $603,583    17%
Personal deposits   3,114,267    3,021,113    3%   2,724,434    14%
Total deposits  $3,821,185   $3,693,495    3%  $3,328,017    15%

 

Personal deposits, consisting principally of guaranteed investment certificates, are sourced primarily through a well-established and well-diversified deposit broker network that the Bank continues to grow and expand across Canada.

 

Commercial deposits are sourced primarily via specialized operating accounts made available to Licensed Insolvency Trustee firms (“Trustees”) in the Canadian insolvency industry. The Bank developed customized banking software platforms for use by Trustees that integrates banking services with the market-leading software platform used in the administration of consumer bankruptcy and proposal restructuring proceedings.

 

Substantially all of the Bank’s Personal and Commercial deposits sourced through these channels are eligible for CDIC insurance.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

Deposits increased 15% to $3.8 billion due primarily to:

 

ØHigher personal deposits attributable to VersaBank increasing activity in its broker market network to fund balance sheet growth and the funding related to the acquisition of SBH; and,

ØHigher commercial deposits attributable to an increase in the volume of consumer and commercial bankruptcy and proposal restructuring proceedings in the current year.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

Deposits increased 3% due primarily to the variables and trends set out above.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A25

 

 

Subordinated Notes Payable

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)         
   July 31,
2024
 

April 30, 

2024 

  July 31,
2023
Issued April 2021, unsecured, non-viability contingent capital compliant, subordinated notes payable, principal amount of $75.0 million, fixed effective interest rate of 5.38%, maturing May 2031.  $101,641   $101,108   $96,669 
                
Issued March 2019, unsecured, non-viability contingent capital compliant, subordinated notes payable, principal amount of $5.0 million, fixed effective interest rate of 10.41%, maturing May 2029.   -    -    4,916 
   $101,641   $101,108   $101,585 

 

Subordinated notes payable, net of issue costs, were $101.6 million as at July 31, 2024, compared with $101.6 million a year ago and $101.1 million last quarter. The year-over-year trend was a function primarily attributable to the change in the USD/CAD foreign exchange spot rate related to the US $75.0 million subordinated note, offset by the Bank redeeming its $5.0 million, unsecured, non-viability contingent capital compliant, subordinate note payable on April 30, 2024, using the Bank’s general funds. The sequential trend reflects the change in the USD/CAD foreign exchange spot rate.

 

Shareholders’ Equity

 

Shareholders’ equity was $409.0 million as at July 31, 2024, compared with $365.0 million a year ago and $400.1 million last quarter.

 

At July 31, 2024, there were 25,964,424 common shares outstanding compared with 25,924,424 common shares outstanding a year ago and 25,964,424 common shares outstanding last quarter.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023 vs Q2 2024

 

Shareholders’ equity increased 12% compared with a year ago and 2% compared with last quarter due primarily to higher retained earnings attributable to net income earned over the course of the year, offset partially by payment of dividends and for the year-over-year trend the purchase and cancellation of common shares through the Bank’s NCIB during fiscal 2023.

 

VersaBank’s book value per common share as at July 31, 2024 was $15.23 compared with $13.55 a year ago and $14.88 last quarter. The year-over-year and sequential increases were due primarily to higher retained earnings attributable to net income earned in the current quarter offset partially by the payment of dividends over the same period. The year-over-year trend also reflects impact of the purchase and cancellation of common shares through the Bank’s NCIB during fiscal 2023.

 

See note 9 to the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for additional information relating to share capital.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A26

 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

Stock options are accounted for using the fair value method which recognizes the fair value of the stock option over the applicable vesting period as an increase in salaries and benefits expense with the same amount being recorded in contributed surplus. VersaBank recognized compensation expense for the current quarter totaling $72,000 compared with $192,000 for the same period a year ago and $72,000 last quarter, relating to the estimated fair value of stock options granted. The recognized compensation expense for the nine-month period ended July 31, 2024, totaled $276,000 compared with $727,000 for the same period a year ago. See note 9 to the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for additional information relating to stock options.

 

Updated Share Information

 

As at September 3, 2024, there were no changes since July 31, 2024 in the number of common shares, Series 1 preferred shares, and common share options outstanding.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As at July 31, 2024, VersaBank had an outstanding interest rate derivative contract established for asset liability management purposes to swap between fixed and floating interest rates with a notional amount totalling $22.4 million that qualified for hedge accounting. The Bank enters into interest rate swap contracts for its own account exclusively and does not act as an intermediary in this market.

 

As at July 31, 2024, VersaBank did not have any significant off-balance sheet arrangements other than an interest rate swap contract, loan commitments and letters of credit attributable to normal course business activities. See notes 12 and 13 to the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for more information.

 

Related Party Transactions

 

VersaBank’s Board of Directors and senior executive officers represent key management personnel. See note 14 to the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements for additional information on related party transactions and balances.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A27

 

 

Capital Management and Capital Resources

 

The table below presents VersaBank’s regulatory capital position, risk-weighted assets and regulatory capital and leverage ratios for the current and comparative periods.

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)               
   July 31,
2024
  April 30,
2024
  Change  July 31
2023
  Change
Common Equity Tier 1 capital  $384,496   $375,153    2%  $339,894    13%
                          
Total Tier 1 capital  $398,143   $388,800    2%  $353,541    13%
                          
Total Tier 2 capital  $105,969   $105,497    0%  $106,524    (1)%
                          
Total regulatory capital  $504,112   $494,297    2%  $460,065    10%
                          
Total risk-weighted assets  $3,273,524   $3,224,822    2%  $3,047,172    7%
Capital ratios                         
CET1 capital ratio   11.75%   11.63%   1%   11.15%   5%
Tier 1 capital ratio   12.16%   12.06%   1%   11.60%   5%
Total capital ratio   15.40%   15.33%   0%   15.10%   2%
Leverage ratio   8.54%   8.55%   0%   8.53%   0%

 

VersaBank reports its regulatory capital ratios using the Standardized approach for calculating risk- weighted assets, as defined under Basel III, which may require VersaBank to carry more capital for certain credit exposures compared with requirements under the Advanced Internal Ratings Based (“AIRB”) methodology. As a result, regulatory capital ratios of banks that utilize the Standardized approach are not directly comparable with the large Canadian banks that employ the AIRB methodology.

 

OSFI requires that all Canadian banks must comply with the Basel III standards on an “all-in” basis for purposes of determining their risk-based capital ratios. Required minimum regulatory capital ratios are a 7.0% Common Equity Tier 1 (“CET1”) capital ratio, an 8.5% Tier 1 capital ratio and a 10.5% total capital ratio, all of which include a 2.5% capital conservation buffer.

 

The year-over-year and sequential trends exhibited by VersaBank’s reported regulatory capital levels, regulatory capital ratios and leverage ratio were a function primarily of retained earnings growth, the purchase and cancellation of common shares through the Bank’s NCIB, and changes to VersaBank’s risk- weighted asset balances and composition.

 

For more information regarding capital management, please see note 15 to VersaBank’s July 31, 2024, unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements as well as the Capital Management and Capital Resources section of VersaBank’s MD&A for the year ended October 31, 2023.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A28

 

 

Liquidity

 

The unaudited Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the nine months ended July 31, 2024, shows cash provided by operations in the amount of $119.4 million compared with cash provided by operations in the amount of $65.0 million for the same period last year. The trend in the current period was due primarily to the inflows from operations and deposits raised exceeding outflows to fund loans. The comparative period trend was due primarily to the cash outflows to fund loans exceeding the cash inflows from operations and deposits raised. Based on factors such as liquidity requirements and opportunities for investment in loans and securities, VersaBank may manage the amount of deposits it raises and loans it funds in ways that result in the balances of these items giving rise to either negative or positive cash flow from operations. VersaBank will continue to fund its operations and meet contractual obligations as they become due using cash on hand and by closely managing its flow of deposits.

 

Interest Rate Sensitivity

 

The table below presents the duration difference between VersaBank’s assets and liabilities and the potential after-tax impact of a 100-basis point shift in interest rates on VersaBank’s earnings during a 12- month period if no remedial actions are taken. As at July 31, 2024, the duration difference between assets and liabilities was (2.8) months compared with (2.0) months as at October 31, 2023. As at July 31, 2024, VersaBank’s assets would reprice faster than its liabilities in the event of a future change in interest rates.

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)

  July 31, 2024  October 31, 2023
    

Increase
100 bps

    

Decrease
100 bps

    

Increase
100 bps

    

Decrease
100 bps

 
Increase (decrease):                    
Impact on projected net interest income during a 12 month period  $5,444   $(5,457)  $4,046   $(4,059)
During difference between assets and liabilities (months)   (2.8)        (2.0)     

 

Contractual Obligations

 

As at July 31, 2024, VersaBank had an outstanding contract established for asset liability management purposes to swap between fixed and floating interest rates with a notional amount totalling $22.8 million which qualified for hedge accounting. There have been no other significant changes in contractual obligations as disclosed in VersaBank’s MD&A and Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended October 31, 2023.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A29

 

 

Results of Operating Segments

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)  
For the three months ended  July 31, 2024  April 30, 2024  July 31, 2023
   Digital Banking  DRTC  Eliminations/ Adjustments  Consolidated  Digital Banking  DRTC  Eliminations/ Adjustments  Consolidated  Digital Banking  DRTC  Eliminations/ Adjustments  Consolidated
Net interest income  $24,944   $-   $-   $24,944   $26,242   $-   $-   $26,242   $24,929   $-   $-   $224,929 
Non-interest income   175    2,219    (342)   2,052    262    2,336    (339)   2,259    101    2,020    (191)   1,930 
Total revenue   25,119    2,219    (342)   26,996    26,504    2,336    (339)   28,501    25,030    2,020    (191)   26,859 
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses   (1)   -    -    (1)   16    -    -    16    171    -    -    171 
    25,120    2,219    (342)   26,997    26,488    2,336    (339)   28,485    24,859    2,020    (191)   26,688 
Non-interest expenses:                                                            
Salaries and benefits   5,945    1,562    -    7,507    5,724    1,685    -    7,409    5,891    1,562    -    7,453 
General and administrative   4,729    446    (342)   4,833    3,445    451    (339)   3,557    4,257    380    (191)   4,446 
Premises and equipment   824    370    -    1,194    845    374    -    1,219    610    370         980 
    11,498    2,378    (342)   13,534    10,014    2,510    (339)   12,185    10,758    2,312    (191)   12,879 
Income (loss) before income taxes   13,622    (159)   -    13,463    16,474    (174)   -    16,300    14,101    (292)        13,809 
Income tax provision   3,811    (53)   -    3,758    4,484    (12)   -    4,472    3,999    (193)        3,806 
Net income (loss)  $9,811   $(106)  $-   $9,705   $11,990   $(162)  $-   $11,828   $10,102   $(99)  $-   $10,003 
                                                             
Total assets  $4,507,158   $27,285   $(18,007)  $4,516,436   $4,378,863   $26,980   $(17,523)  $4,388,320   $3,971,781   $25,485   $(16,421)  $3,980,845 
                                                             
Total liabilities  $4,102,239   $29,471   $(24,259)  $4,107,451   $3,982,924   $29,069   $(23,776)  $3,988,217   $3,609,832   $29,123   $(23,153)  $3,615,802 

 

(thousands of Canadian dollars)
For the nine months ended  July 31, 2024  July 31, 2023
   Digital Banking  DRTC  Eliminations/ Adjustments  Consolidated  Digital Banking  DRTC  Eliminations/ Adjustments  Consolidated
Net interest income  $77,754   $-   $-   $77,754   $73,812   $-   $-   $73,812 
Non-interest income   557    7,055    (1,018)   6,594    225    5,999    (574)   5,650 
Total revenue   78,311    7,055    (1,018)   84,348    74,037    5,999    (574)   79,462 
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses   (112)   -    -    (112)   793    -    -    793 
    78,423    7,055    (1,018)   84,460    73,244    5,999    (574)   78,669 
Non-interest expenses:                                        
Salaries and benefits   17,040    4,414    -    21,454    19,505    4,634    -    24,139 
General and administrative   12,450    1,291    (1,018)   12,723    10,250    1,212    (574)   10,888 
Premises and equipment   2,437    1,129    -    3,566    1,845    1,068    -    2,913 
    31,927    6,834    (1,018)   37,743    31,600    6,914    (574)   37,940 
Income (loss) before income taxes   46,496    221    -    46,717    41,644    (915)   -    40,729 
Income tax provision   12,431    54    -    12,485    11,779    (733)   -    11,046 
Net income (loss)  $34,065   $167   $-   $34,232   $29,865   $(182)  $-   $29,683 
                                         
Total assets  $4,507,158   $27,285   $(18,007)  $4,516,436   $3,971,781   $25,485   $(16,421)  $3,980,845 
                                         
Total liabilities  $4,102,239   $29,471   $(24,259)  $4,107,451   $3,609,832   $29,123   $(23,153)  $3,615,802 

 

Digital Banking Operations

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

Net income decreased 3% to $9.8 million due primarily to higher non-interest expenses, offset partially by higher revenue and lower provision for credit losses.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A30

 

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

Net income decreased 18% due primarily to lower revenues and higher non-interest expenses.

 

Q3 YTD 2024 vs Q3 YTD 2023

 

Net income increased 14% due primarily to higher revenues attributable to strong loan growth, a recovery of credit losses, offset partially by higher non-interest expenses.

 

DRTC (Cybersecurity Services and Banking and Financial Technology Development)

 

Q3 2024 vs Q3 2023

 

DRTC reported a net loss of $106,000 compared with net loss of $99,000, due primarily to tax provision adjustments, offset partially by higher revenues attributable to higher gross profit from DBG and intercorporate cybersecurity services provided to Digital Banking.

 

DBG revenue increased 8% to $2.5 million and gross profit increased 5% to $1.9 million due primarily to higher service engagements in the current quarter.

 

Q3 2024 vs Q2 2024

 

DRTC reported a net loss of $106,000 compared with net loss of $162,000 attributable primarily to lower non-interest expenses, offset partially by lower revenues and gross profit from DBG in the current quarter.

 

DRTC’s DBG services revenue and gross profit decreased 8% and 6%, respectively, due primarily to lower service engagements in the current quarter.

 

Q3 YTD 2024 vs Q3 YTD 2023

 

DRTC recorded net income of $167,000 compared with a net loss of $182,000 attributable primarily to higher revenues and gross profit from DBG, higher intercorporate cybersecurity services provided to Digital Banking and lower non-interest expenses.

 

DRTC’s DBG services revenue and gross profit were 13% and 13%, respectively.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A31

 

 

Summary of Quarterly Results

 
(thousands of Canadian dollars,  
except per share amounts)
  2024  2023  2022
    Q3    Q2    Q1    Q4    Q3    Q2    Q1    Q4 

Results of operations:

 

                                        
Interest income  $71,646   $71,243   $69,292   $66,089   $60,089   $53,595   $49,561   $42,072 
Yield on assets (%)   6.40%   6.66%   6.47%   6.40%   6.19%   6.05%   5.78%   5.26%
Interest expense   46,702    45,001    42,724    39,850    35,160    28,986    25,287    19,595 
Cost of funds (%)   4.17%   4.21%   3.99%   3.86%   3.62%   3.27%   2.95%   2.45%
Net interest income   24,944    26,242    26,568    26,239    24,929    24,609    24,274    22,477 
Net interest margin (%)   2.23%   2.45%   2.48%   2.54%   2.57%   2.78%   2.83%   2.81%
Net interest margin on loans (%)   2.41%   2.52%   2.63%   2.69%   2.69%   2.99%   3.03%   3.03%
Non-interest income   2,052    2,259    2,283    2,934    1,930    2,076    1,644    1,775 
Total revenue   26,996    28,501    28,851    29,173    26,859    26,685    25,918    24,252 
Provision for (recovery of) credit losses   (1)   16    (127)   (184)   171    237    385    205 
Non-interest expenses   13,534    12,185    12,024    12,441    12,879    12,726    12,335    13,774 
Efficiency ratio   50%   43%   42%   43%   48%   48%   48%   57%
Efficiency ratio - Digital Banking   46%   38%   40%   45%   43%   43%   42%   51%
Tax provision   3,758    4,472    4,255    4,437    3,806    3,459    3,781    3,844 
Net income  $9,705   $11,828   $12,699   $12,479   $10,003   $10,263   $9,417   $6,429 
Income per share                                        
Basic  $0.36   $0.45   $0.48   $0.47   $0.38   $0.38   $0.34   $0.23 
Diluted  $0.36   $0.45   $0.48   $0.47   $0.38   $0.38   $0.34   $0.23 
Return on average common equity   9.63%   12.36%   13.41%   13.58%   11.15%   12.07%   10.79%   7.32%
Return on average total assets   0.85%   1.08%   1.16%   1.19%   1.00%   1.13%   1.07%   0.77%

 

The financial results for each of the last eight quarters are summarized above. Key drivers of VersaBank’s sequential performance trends for the current reporting period were:

 

ØLending asset growth attributable to continued growth in the POS/RPP Financing portfolio;

ØLower NIM attributable primarily to lower yields earned on the Bank’s lending assets and higher cost of funds (with higher cost of funds over the most recent 12 months due largely to higher rates on term deposits);

ØProvision for credit losses trend attributable primarily to changes in the forward-looking information used by the Bank in its credit risk models; and,

ØHigher non-interest expense attributable primarily to higher professional fees attributable to the continuing regulatory approval process associated with VersaBank’s acquisition of a US bank, a favourable adjustment in compensation obligations in the comparable quarter and higher general operating costs consistent with increased business activities.

 

Subsequent Event

 

Acquisition of Stearns Bank Holdingford, N.A.

 

On August 30, 2024 the Bank through its wholly owned US subsidiary VersaHoldings US Corp., acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of shares of Minnesota-based SBH, a privately held, wholly owned subsidiary of "SFSI" based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, for cash consideration of approximately US$14.0 million (CA$19.3 million), subject to closing related adjustments. SBH is a fully operational, OCC-chartered

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A32

 

 

national bank, focused on small business lending. The acquisition follows the approval for acquisition received in June 2024 from OSFI, as well as the US’s OCC and the US Federal Reserve.

 

Upon the close of the share acquisition of SBH, the Bank acquired approximately US$61.1 million in assets and assumed approximately US$54.1 million in deposits and other liabilities and renamed SBH as VersaBank USA. The acquisition will provide the Bank with access to U.S. deposits to support the growth of its Receivable Purchase Program business, which the Bank launched in Fiscal 2022. The acquisition is expected to be accretive to the Bank’s earnings per share within the first year after closing; and, VersaBank USA was well capitalized, as per the OCC’s definition of same, with a Total Capital ratio in excess of 10% as at August 30, 2024.

 

Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures

 

Non-GAAP and other financial measures are not standardized financial measures under the financial reporting framework used to prepare the financial statements of the Bank to which these measures relate. These measures may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. The Bank uses these financial measures to assess its performance and as such believes these financial measures are useful in providing readers with a better understanding of how management assesses the Bank’s performance.

 

Non-GAAP Measures

 

Return on Average Common Equity is defined as annualized net income less amounts relating to preferred share dividends, divided by average common shareholders’ equity which is average shareholders’ equity less amounts relating to preferred shares recorded in equity.

 

  For the three months ended  For the nine months ended
(thousands of Canadian dollars)  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
             
Return on average common equity                    
Net income  $9,705   $10,003   $34,232   $29,683 
Preferred share dividends   (247)   (247)   (741)   (741)
Adjusted net income   9,458    9,756    33,491    28,942 
Annualized adjusted net income   37,626    38,706    44,736    38,695 
Average common equity  $390,898   $.347,135   $379,425   $344,213 
Return on average common equity   9.63%   11.15%   11.79%   11.24%

 

Book Value per Common Share is defined as Shareholders’ Equity less amounts relating to preferred shares recorded in equity, divided by the number of common shares outstanding.

 

   As at
(thousands of Canadian dollars, except shares outstanding and per share amounts)  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
Book value per common share      
Common equity  $395,338   $351,396 
Shares outstanding   25,964,424    25,924,424 
Book value per common share  $15.23   $13.55 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A33

 

 

Return on Average Total Assets is defined as annualized net income less amounts relating to preferred share dividends, divided by average total assets.

 

    
   For the three months ended  For the nine months ended
(thousands of Canadian dollars)  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
  July 31,
2024
  July 31,
2023
Return on average total assets                    
Net income  $9,705   $10,003   $34,232   $29,683 
Preferred share dividends   (247)   (247)   (741)   (741)
Adjusted net income   9,458    9,756    33,491    28,942 
Annualized adjusted net income   37,626    38,706    44,736    38,695 
Average assets  $4,452,378   $.3,855,119   $4,359,023   $3,623,422 
Return on average common assets   0.85%   1.00%   1.03%   1.07%

 

Other Financial Measures

 

Yield is calculated as interest income (as presented in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income) divided by average total assets. Yield does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other financial institutions.

 

Cost of Funds is calculated as interest expense (as presented in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income) divided by average total assets. Cost of funds does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other financial institutions.

 

Net Interest Margin or Spread are calculated as net interest income divided by average total assets. Net interest margin or spread does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other financial institutions.

 

Net Interest Margin on Loans is calculated as net interest income adjusted for the impact of cash. securities and other assets, divided by average gross loans. This metric does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other financial institutions.

 

Efficiency Ratio is calculated as non-interest expenses from consolidated operations as a percentage of total revenue (as presented in the interim Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income). This ratio does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other financial institutions.

 

Efficiency Ratio Digital Banking is calculated as non-interest expenses from the Digital Banking operations as a percentage of total revenue from the Digital Banking operations. This ratio does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other financial institutions.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A34

 

 

Provision for (Recovery of) Credit Losses as a Percentage of Average Total Loans captures the provision for (recovery of) credit losses (as presented in the interim Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income) as a percentage of VersaBank’s average loans, net of allowance for credit losses. This percentage does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other financial institutions.

 

Basel III Common Equity Tier 1, Tier 1, Total Capital Adequacy and Leverage Ratios are determined in accordance with guidelines issued by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (Canada) (OSFI).

 

Significant Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates and Judgements

 

Significant accounting policies and use of estimates and judgements are detailed in note 2 and note 3 of VersaBank’s 2023 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements. There have been no material changes in accounting policies since October 31, 2023.

 

Controls and Procedures

 

During the quarter ended July 31, 2024, there were no changes in VersaBank’s internal controls over financial reporting, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect VersaBank’s internal controls over financial reporting.

 

Additional Information

 

Additional information regarding VersaBank, including its Annual Information Form for the year ended October 31, 2023, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.

 

VersaBank - Q3 2024 MD&A35