10-Q 1 flic20160830_10q.htm FORM 10-Q flic20160830_10q.htm

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

____________

 

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended

September 30, 2016

 

or

 

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

 

For the transition period from

to

 

 

Commission file number 001-32964

 

THE FIRST OF LONG ISLAND CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

New York

11-2672906

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 

 

10 Glen Head Road, Glen Head, NY  

11545

(Address of principal executive offices) 

(Zip Code)

 

(516) 671-4900

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

 

Not Applicable

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

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the

preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past

90 days. 

 Yes X No     

   
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be
submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant
was required to submit and post such files).  Yes X No     

 

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 definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

                                                                                                                                                                                                 

 

Large accelerated filer [  ] 

Accelerated filer [X]

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-accelerated filer [  ]

Smaller reporting company [  ]

 

                                                                   

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).   

 Yes       No X

                                                            

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Title of Each Class                   

 

Outstanding at October 31, 2016

Common stock, $.10 par value per share 

 

15,790,551

                                                                                                                        

 
 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 
     

ITEM 1.

Financial Statements

 
     
 

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) – September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015

1

     
 

Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) – Nine and Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2015

2

     
 

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) – Nine and Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2015

3

     
 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (Unaudited) – Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2015

4

     
 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) – Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2015

5

     
 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

6

     

ITEM 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

21

     

ITEM 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

29

     

ITEM 4.

Controls and Procedures

30

     

PART II.

OTHER INFORMATION

 
     

ITEM 1.

Legal Proceedings

30

     

ITEM 1A.

Risk Factors

31

     

ITEM 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

31

     

ITEM 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

31

     

ITEM 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

31

     

ITEM 5.

Other Information

31

     

ITEM 6.

Exhibits

31

     
 

Signatures

33

  

 
 

 

  

PART 1. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)

 

   

September 30,

   

December 31,

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

2016

   

2015

 
                 

Assets:

               

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 48,858     $ 39,635  
                 

Investment securities:

               

Held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $12,273 and $14,910)

    11,915       14,371  

Available-for-sale, at fair value

    837,734       737,700  
      849,649       752,071  
                 

Loans held-for-sale

    -       105  
                 

Loans:

               

Commercial and industrial

    117,973       93,056  

Secured by real estate:

               

Commercial mortgages

    1,054,330       1,036,331  

Residential mortgages

    1,180,646       1,025,215  

Home equity lines

    85,984       87,848  

Consumer and other

    5,976       5,733  
      2,444,909       2,248,183  

Allowance for loan losses

    (28,759 )     (27,256 )
      2,416,150       2,220,927  
                 

Restricted stock, at cost

    27,106       28,435  

Bank premises and equipment, net

    32,003       30,330  

Bank-owned life insurance

    32,877       32,447  

Pension plan assets, net

    14,507       14,337  

Other assets

    13,345       12,056  
    $ 3,434,495     $ 3,130,343  

Liabilities:

               

Deposits:

               

Checking

  $ 789,644     $ 777,994  

Savings, NOW and money market

    1,542,366       1,195,968  

Time, $100,000 and over

    189,093       198,147  

Time, other

    103,781       112,566  
      2,624,884       2,284,675  
                 

Short-term borrowings

    101,522       211,502  

Long-term debt

    379,212       365,712  

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

    10,668       12,313  

Deferred income taxes payable

    7,835       5,205  
      3,124,121       2,879,407  
                 

Stockholders' Equity:

               

Common stock, par value $.10 per share:

               

Authorized, 40,000,000 shares; Issued and outstanding, 15,685,967 and 14,116,677 shares

    1,569       1,412  

Surplus

    99,265       56,931  

Retained earnings

    198,834       185,069  
      299,668       243,412  

Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax

    10,706       7,524  
      310,374       250,936  
    $ 3,434,495     $ 3,130,343  

 

See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements 

 

 
1

 

  

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)

 

   

Nine Months Ended September 30,

   

Three Months Ended September 30,

 

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

2016

   

2015

   

2016

   

2015

 
                                 

Interest and dividend income:

                               

Loans

  $ 60,844     $ 51,328     $ 20,789     $ 17,637  

Investment securities:

                               

Taxable

    5,920       6,116       2,010       1,874  

Nontaxable

    10,256       10,184       3,433       3,392  
      77,020       67,628       26,232       22,903  

Interest expense:

                               

Savings, NOW and money market deposits

    3,833       1,840       1,490       690  

Time deposits

    3,910       4,565       1,236       1,495  

Short-term borrowings

    154       113       23       19  

Long-term debt

    5,458       5,877       1,792       1,766  
      13,355       12,395       4,541       3,970  

Net interest income

    63,665       55,233       21,691       18,933  

Provision for loan losses

    1,510       2,402       1,118       1,049  

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

    62,155       52,831       20,573       17,884  
                                 

Noninterest income:

                               

Investment Management Division income

    1,498       1,548       508       509  

Service charges on deposit accounts

    1,979       1,981       689       656  

Net gains on sales of securities

    1,868       1,133       24       -  

Other

    2,154       2,196       793       654  
      7,499       6,858       2,014       1,819  

Noninterest expense:

                               

Salaries

    16,437       15,134       5,388       5,114  

Employee benefits

    5,148       4,347       1,699       1,608  

Occupancy and equipment

    6,923       6,639       2,344       2,070  

Debt extinguishment

    1,756       1,084       -       -  

Other

    9,013       7,367       2,543       2,590  
      39,277       34,571       11,974       11,382  
                                 

Income before income taxes

    30,377       25,118       10,613       8,321  

Income tax expense

    7,316       5,846       2,602       1,810  

Net income

  $ 23,061     $ 19,272     $ 8,011     $ 6,511  
                                 

Earnings per share:

                               

Basic

  $ 1.54     $ 1.38     $ .51     $ .46  

Diluted

    1.52       1.36       .50       .46  
                                 

Cash dividends declared per share

    .61       .58       .21       .20  

 

See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

 
2

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)

 

   

Nine Months Ended

   

Three Months Ended

 
   

September 30,

   

September 30,

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

2016

   

2015

   

2016

   

2015

 
                                 

Net income

  $ 23,061     $ 19,272     $ 8,011     $ 6,511  
                                 

Other comprehensive income (loss):

                               

Change in net unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale securities

    5,469       (1,717 )     (5,184 )     5,144  

Change in funded status of pension plan

    183       -       61       -  

Other comprehensive income (loss) before income taxes

    5,652       (1,717 )     (5,123 )     5,144  

Income tax expense (benefit)

    2,470       (743 )     (2,137 )     2,119  

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    3,182       (974 )     (2,986 )     3,025  

Comprehensive income

  $ 26,243     $ 18,298     $ 5,025     $ 9,536  

 

See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements 

 

 
3

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (UNAUDITED)

 

   

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016

 
                                   

Accumulated

         
                                   

Other

         
   

Common Stock

           

Retained

   

Comprehensive

         

(dollars in thousands)

 

Shares

   

Amount

   

Surplus

   

Earnings

   

Income

   

Total

 
                                                 

Balance, January 1, 2016

    14,116,677     $ 1,412     $ 56,931     $ 185,069     $ 7,524     $ 250,936  

Net income

                            23,061               23,061  

Other comprehensive income

                                    3,182       3,182  

Common stock issued in public offering, net of issuance costs

    1,300,000       130       35,140                       35,270  

Repurchase of common stock

    (13,393 )     (1 )     (369 )                     (370 )

Common stock issued under stock compensation plans, including tax benefit

    99,267       10       1,069                       1,079  

Common stock issued under dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plan

    183,416       18       5,178                       5,196  

Stock-based compensation

                    1,316                       1,316  

Cash dividends declared

                            (9,296 )             (9,296 )

Balance, September 30, 2016

    15,685,967     $ 1,569     $ 99,265     $ 198,834     $ 10,706     $ 310,374  

 

 

 

   

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015

 
                                   

Accumulated

         
                                   

Other

         
   

Common Stock

           

Retained

   

Comprehensive

         

(dollars in thousands)

 

Shares

   

Amount

   

Surplus

   

Earnings

   

Income

   

Total

 
                                                 

Balance, January 1, 2015

    13,887,134     $ 1,389     $ 51,009     $ 170,120     $ 10,785     $ 233,303  

Net income

                            19,272               19,272  

Other comprehensive loss

                                    (974 )     (974 )

Repurchase of common stock

    (12,227 )     (1 )     (286 )                     (287 )

Common stock issued under stock compensation plans, including tax benefit

    76,183       7       741                       748  

Common stock issued under dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plan

    92,093       9       2,275                       2,284  

Stock-based compensation

                    1,053                       1,053  

Cash dividends declared

                            (8,119 )             (8,119 )

Balance, September 30, 2015

    14,043,183     $ 1,404     $ 54,792     $ 181,273     $ 9,811     $ 247,280  

 

See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

 
4

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)

 

   

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

2016

   

2015

 
                 

Cash Flows From Operating Activities:

               

Net income

  $ 23,061     $ 19,272  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

               

Provision for loan losses

    1,510       2,402  

Provision (credit) for deferred income taxes

    98       (359 )

Depreciation and amortization

    2,398       2,254  

Premium amortization on investment securities, net

    3,012       3,651  

Net gains on sales of securities

    (1,868 )     (1,133 )

Net loss on sales of loans held-for-sale

    5       -  

Loss on debt extinguishment

    1,756       1,084  

Stock-based compensation expense

    1,316       1,053  

Accretion of cash surrender value on bank-owned life insurance

    (709 )     (665 )

Pension expense (credit)

    13       (367 )

Increase in other assets

    (1,010 )     (257 )

Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and other liabilities

    (2,094 )     610  

Net cash provided by operating activities

    27,488       27,545  
                 

Cash Flows From Investing Activities:

               

Proceeds from sales of investment securities:

               

Held-to-maturity

    123       243  

Available-for-sale

    62,047       66,140  

Proceeds from maturities and redemptions of investment securities:

               

Held-to-maturity

    3,676       4,580  

Available-for-sale

    76,932       88,264  

Purchases of investment securities:

               

Held-to-maturity

    (1,287 )     (1,619 )

Available-for-sale

    (234,744 )     (136,589 )

Proceeds from sales of loans held-for-sale

    100       1,176  

Net increase in loans

    (196,733 )     (299,349 )

Net decrease in restricted stock

    1,329       2,130  

Purchases of premises and equipment, net

    (4,071 )     (3,835 )

Net cash used in investing activities

    (292,628 )     (278,859 )
                 

Cash Flows From Financing Activities:

               

Net increase in deposits

    340,209       319,547  

Net decrease in short-term borrowings

    (109,980 )     (73,386 )

Proceeds from long-term debt

    43,500       85,362  

Repayment of long-term debt

    (31,756 )     (74,584 )

Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net

    40,466       2,284  

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

    778       524  

Tax benefit from stock compensation plans

    301       224  

Repurchase and retirement of common stock

    (370 )     (287 )

Cash dividends paid

    (8,785 )     (7,950 )

Net cash provided by financing activities

    274,363       251,734  
                 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

    9,223       420  

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year

    39,635       32,944  

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

  $ 48,858     $ 33,364  
                 

Supplemental Information:

               

Cash paid for:

               

Interest

  $ 16,530     $ 12,662  

Income taxes

    5,696       5,600  

Noncash investing and financing activities:

               

Cash dividends payable

    3,334       2,808  

 

See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements 

 
5

 

  

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1 - BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

The accounting and reporting policies of The First of Long Island Corporation (“Corporation”) reflect banking industry practice and conform to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States. In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates, such as the allowance for loan losses, and assumptions that affect the reported asset and liability balances, revenue and expense amounts, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiary, The First National Bank of Long Island (“Bank”). The Bank has two wholly owned subsidiaries: FNY Service Corp., an investment company, and The First of Long Island Agency, Inc., a licensed insurance agency under the laws of the State of New York. The Bank and FNY Service Corp. jointly own another subsidiary, The First of Long Island REIT, Inc., a real estate investment trust. The consolidated entity is referred to as the “Corporation” and the Bank and its subsidiaries are collectively referred to as the “Bank.” All intercompany balances and amounts have been eliminated. For further information refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

The consolidated financial information included herein as of and for the periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 is unaudited. However, such information reflects all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of results for the interim periods. The December 31, 2015 consolidated balance sheet was derived from the Corporation's December 31, 2015 audited consolidated financial statements. When appropriate, items in the prior year financial statements are reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

 

2 – EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

The following table is a reconciliation of basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) for the periods indicated.  

 

   

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

   

Three Months Ended

September 30,

 

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

2016

   

2015

   

2016

   

2015

 

Net income

  $ 23,061     $ 19,272     $ 8,011     $ 6,511  

Income allocated to participating securities (1)

    98       -       34       -  

Income allocated to common stockholders

  $ 22,963     $ 19,272     $ 7,977     $ 6,511  
                                 

Weighted average:

                               

Common shares

    14,958,631       13,982,485       15,664,908       14,029,990  

Dilutive stock options and restricted stock units (1)

    144,900       157,488       142,158       165,687  
      15,103,531       14,139,973       15,807,066       14,195,677  

Earnings per share:

                               

Basic

  $ 1.54     $ 1.38     $ .51     $ .46  

Diluted

    1.52       1.36       .50       .46  

  

(1) Restricted stock units (“RSUs”) awarded in January 2016 accrue dividends at the same rate as the dividends declared by the Board of Directors on the Corporation’s common stock. For purposes of computing EPS, these RSUs are considered to participate with common stock in the earnings of the Corporation and, therefore, the Corporation is required to calculate basic and diluted EPS using the two-class method. Under the two-class method, net income for the period is allocated between common stockholders and participating securities according to dividends declared and participation rights in undistributed earnings. See Note 6 for additional details on the RSUs awarded in 2016.

 

3 - COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

Comprehensive income includes net income and other comprehensive income. Other comprehensive income includes revenues, expenses, gains and losses that under generally accepted accounting principles are included in comprehensive income but excluded from net income. Other comprehensive income for the Corporation consists of unrealized holding gains or losses on available-for-sale securities and changes in the funded status of the Bank’s defined benefit pension plan, both net of related income taxes. Accumulated other comprehensive income is recognized as a separate component of stockholders’ equity.

 

 
6

 

  

The components of other comprehensive income (loss) and the related tax effects are as follows: 

 

   

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

   

Three Months Ended

September 30,

 
   

2016

   

2015

   

2016

   

2015

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Change in net unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale securities:

                               

Change arising during the period

  $ 7,320     $ (592 )   $ (5,160 )   $ 5,144  

Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income (1)

    (1,851 )     (1,125 )     (24 )     -  

Change in net unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale securities

    5,469       (1,717 )     (5,184 )     5,144  

Tax effect

    2,448       (706 )     (2,160 )     2,119  
      3,021       (1,011 )     (3,024 )     3,025  
                                 

Change in funded status of pension plan:

                               

Amortization of net actuarial loss included in pension expense (2)

    183       -       61       -  

Tax effect

    22       (37 )     23       -  
      161       37       38       -  

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  $ 3,182     $ (974 )   $ (2,986 )   $ 3,025  

  

(1) Reclassification adjustment represents net realized gains arising from the sale of available-for-sale securities. The net realized gains are included in the consolidated statements of income in the line item, “Net gains on sales of securities.” See “Note 4 – Investment Securities” for the income tax expense related to the net realized gains, which is included in the consolidated statements of income in the line item, “Income tax expense.”

 

(2) Represents the amortization into expense of net actuarial loss relating to the Bank’s defined benefit pension plan. This item is included in net periodic pension cost (see Note 7) and in the consolidated statements of income in the line item, “Employee benefits.” The related income tax expense is included in the consolidated statements of income in the line item, “Income tax expense.”

 

The following table sets forth the components of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax: 

 

           

Current

         
   

Balance

   

Period

   

Balance

 
   

12/31/15

   

Change

   

9/30/16

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale securities

  $ 11,675     $ 3,021     $ 14,696  

Unrealized actuarial losses on pension plan

    (4,151 )     161       (3,990 )

Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax

  $ 7,524     $ 3,182     $ 10,706  

 

 
7

 

  

4 - INVESTMENT SECURITIES

 

The following tables set forth the amortized cost and estimated fair values of the Bank’s investment securities. 

 

   

September 30, 2016

 
           

Gross

   

Gross

         
   

Amortized

   

Unrealized

   

Unrealized

   

Fair

 
   

Cost

   

Gains

   

Losses

   

Value

 

 

  (in thousands)  
Held-to-Maturity Securities:      

State and municipals

  $ 10,800     $ 263     $ -     $ 11,063  

Pass-through mortgage securities

    422       49       -       471  

Collateralized mortgage obligations

    693       46       -       739  
    $ 11,915     $ 358     $ -     $ 12,273  

Available-for-Sale Securities:

                               

State and municipals

  $ 443,691     $ 21,991     $ (174 )   $ 465,508  

Pass-through mortgage securities

    183,827       1,718       (85 )     185,460  

Collateralized mortgage obligations

    185,118       1,894       (246 )     186,766  
    $ 812,636     $ 25,603     $ (505 )   $ 837,734  

 

   

December 31, 2015

 

Held-to-Maturity Securities:

                               

State and municipals

  $ 12,922     $ 410     $ -     $ 13,332  

Pass-through mortgage securities

    576       67       -       643  

Collateralized mortgage obligations

    873       62       -       935  
    $ 14,371     $ 539     $ -     $ 14,910  

Available-for-Sale Securities:

                               

State and municipals

  $ 416,957     $ 18,892     $ (156 )   $ 435,693  

Pass-through mortgage securities

    148,402       810       (1,947 )     147,265  

Collateralized mortgage obligations

    152,712       2,720       (690 )     154,742  
    $ 718,071     $ 22,422     $ (2,793 )   $ 737,700  

  

At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, investment securities with a carrying value of $431,879,000 and $405,769,000, respectively, were pledged as collateral to secure public deposits and borrowed funds.

 

There were no holdings of any one issuer, other than the U.S. Government and its agencies, in an amount greater than 10% of stockholders’ equity at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

 

Securities With Unrealized Losses. The following tables set forth securities with unrealized losses presented by the length of time the securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position. 

 

   

September 30, 2016

 
   

Less than

   

12 Months

                 
   

12 Months

   

or More

   

Total

 
   

Fair

   

Unrealized

   

Fair

   

Unrealized

   

Fair

   

Unrealized

 
   

Value

   

Loss

   

Value

   

Loss

   

Value

   

Loss

 
    (in thousands)  

State and municipals

  $ 11,887     $ (174 )   $ -     $ -     $ 11,887     $ (174 )

Pass-through mortgage securities

    16,266       (85 )     -       -       16,266       (85 )

Collateralized mortgage obligations

    58,707       (156 )     8,491       (90 )     67,198       (246 )

Total temporarily impaired

  $ 86,860     $ (415 )   $ 8,491     $ (90 )   $ 95,351     $ (505 )

 

   

December 31, 2015

 

State and municipals

  $ 13,148     $ (78 )   $ 5,837     $ (78 )   $ 18,985     $ (156 )

Pass-through mortgage securities

    98,504       (1,348 )     27,365       (599 )     125,869       (1,947 )

Collateralized mortgage obligations

    39,133       (305 )     12,743       (385 )     51,876       (690 )

Total temporarily impaired

  $ 150,785     $ (1,731 )   $ 45,945     $ (1,062 )   $ 196,730     $ (2,793 )

  

Because the unrealized losses reflected in the preceding tables are deemed by management to be attributable to changes in interest rates and not credit losses, and because management does not have the intent to sell these securities and it is not more likely than not that it will be required to sell these securities before their anticipated recovery, the Bank does not consider these securities to be other-than-temporarily impaired at September 30, 2016.

 

 
8

 

  

Sales of Available-for-Sale Securities. Sales of available-for-sale securities were as follows: 

 

   

Nine Months Ended September 30,

   

Three Months Ended September 30,

 
   

2016

   

2015

   

2016

   

2015

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Proceeds

  $ 62,047     $ 66,140     $ 21,058     $ -  
                                 

Gross gains

  $ 1,869     $ 1,501     $ 24     $ -  

Gross losses

    (18 )     (376 )     -       -  

Net gain

  $ 1,851     $ 1,125     $ 24     $ -  

  

Income tax expense related to the net realized gains was $772,000 and $463,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and September 30, 2015, respectively.

 

Sales of Held-to-Maturity Securities. During the second quarter of 2016, the Bank sold one mortgage-backed security that was classified as held-to-maturity. The sale occurred after the Bank collected 85% or more of the principal outstanding at acquisition. The security sold had a carrying value of $106,000 at the time of sale and the Bank realized a gain upon sale of $17,000.

 

During the second quarter of 2015, the Bank sold one municipal security that was classified as held-to-maturity. The sale was in response to a significant deterioration in the creditworthiness of the issuer. The security sold had a carrying value of $235,000 at the time of sale and the Bank realized a gain upon sale of $8,000.

 

Maturities. The following table sets forth by maturity the amortized cost and fair value of the Bank’s state and municipal securities at September 30, 2016 based on the earlier of their stated maturity or, if applicable, their pre-refunded date. The remaining securities in the Bank’s investment securities portfolio are mortgage-backed securities, consisting of pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations. Although these securities are expected to have substantial periodic repayments they are reflected in the table below in aggregate amounts.  

 

   

Amortized Cost

   

Fair Value

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 
Held-to-Maturity Securities:      

Within one year

  $ 3,726     $ 3,761  

After 1 through 5 years

    5,676       5,872  

After 5 through 10 years

    1,398       1,430  

After 10 years

    -       -  

Mortgage-backed securities

    1,115       1,210  
    $ 11,915     $ 12,273  

Available-for-Sale Securities:

               

Within one year

  $ 16,339     $ 16,535  

After 1 through 5 years

    65,687       68,893  

After 5 through 10 years

    168,525       177,243  

After 10 years

    193,140       202,837  

Mortgage-backed securities

    368,945       372,226  
    $ 812,636     $ 837,734  

 

 
9

 

  

5 – LOANS

 

The following tables set forth by class of loans the amount of loans individually and collectively evaluated for impairment and the portion of the allowance for loan losses allocable to such loans.

 

   

September 30, 2016

 
   

Loans

   

Allowance for Loan Losses

 
   

Individually Evaluated for Impairment

   

Collectively Evaluated for Impairment

   

Ending Balance

   

Individually Evaluated for Impairment

   

Collectively Evaluated for Impairment

   

Ending Balance

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ 1,000     $ 116,973     $ 117,973     $ -     $ 1,351     $ 1,351  

Commercial mortgages:

                                               

Multifamily

    -       545,354       545,354       -       5,671       5,671  

Other

    -       387,107       387,107       -       4,559       4,559  

Owner-occupied

    567       121,302       121,869       -       1,186       1,186  

Residential mortgages:

                                               

Closed end

    1,203       1,179,443       1,180,646       46       14,922       14,968  

Revolving home equity

    280       85,704       85,984       -       924       924  

Consumer and other

    -       5,976       5,976       -       100       100  
    $ 3,050     $ 2,441,859     $ 2,444,909     $ 46     $ 28,713     $ 28,759  

 

   

December 31, 2015

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ -     $ 93,056     $ 93,056     $ -     $ 928     $ 928  

Commercial mortgages:

                                               

Multifamily

    -       572,322       572,322       -       6,858       6,858  

Other

    -       348,909       348,909       -       3,674       3,674  

Owner-occupied

    594       114,506       115,100       -       1,047       1,047  

Residential mortgages:

                                               

Closed end

    3,797       1,021,418       1,025,215       428       13,211       13,639  

Revolving home equity

    522       87,326       87,848       -       1,016       1,016  

Consumer and other

    -       5,733       5,733       -       94       94  
    $ 4,913     $ 2,243,270     $ 2,248,183     $ 428     $ 26,828     $ 27,256  

 

The following tables present the activity in the allowance for loan losses for the nine and three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. 

 

   

Balance at

1/1/16

   

Chargeoffs

   

Recoveries

   

Provision for Loan

Losses (Credit)

   

Balance at

9/30/16

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ 928     $ -     $ 4     $ 419     $ 1,351  

Commercial mortgages:

                                       

Multifamily

    6,858       -       -       (1,187 )     5,671  

Other

    3,674       -       -       885       4,559  

Owner-occupied

    1,047       -       -       139       1,186  

Residential mortgages:

                                       

Closed end

    13,639       32       9       1,352       14,968  

Revolving home equity

    1,016       -       12       (104 )     924  

Consumer and other

    94       5       5       6       100  
    $ 27,256     $ 37     $ 30     $ 1,510     $ 28,759  

 

 
10

 

  

   

Balance at

7/1/16

   

Chargeoffs

   

Recoveries

   

Provision for Loan Losses (Credit)

   

Balance at

9/30/16

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ 1,174     $ -     $ -     $ 177     $ 1,351  

Commercial mortgages:

                                       

Multifamily

    6,346       -       -       (675 )     5,671  

Other

    3,828       -       -       731       4,559  

Owner-occupied

    1,175       -       -       11       1,186  

Residential mortgages:

                                       

Closed end

    14,148       32       1       851       14,968  

Revolving home equity

    913       -       -       11       924  

Consumer and other

    93       5       -       12       100  
    $ 27,677     $ 37     $ 1     $ 1,118     $ 28,759  

 

   

Balance at

1/1/15

   

Chargeoffs

   

Recoveries

   

Provision for Loan Losses (Credit)

   

Balance at

9/30/15

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ 838     $ -     $ 6     $ 61     $ 905  

Commercial mortgages:

                                       

Multifamily

    7,207       88       -       (304 )     6,815  

Other

    2,340       -       2       521       2,863  

Owner-occupied

    1,023       -       -       (74 )     949  

Residential mortgages:

                                       

Closed end

    10,599       -       9       2,319       12,927  

Revolving home equity

    1,121       -       5       (158 )     968  

Consumer and other

    93       37       -       37       93  
    $ 23,221     $ 125     $ 22     $ 2,402     $ 25,520  

 

   

Balance at

7/1/15

   

Chargeoffs

   

Recoveries

   

Provision for Loan Losses (Credit)

   

Balance at

9/30/15

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ 986     $ -     $ -     $ (81 )   $ 905  

Commercial mortgages:

                                       

Multifamily

    7,030       21       -       (194 )     6,815  

Other

    2,263       -       1       599       2,863  

Owner-occupied

    1,007       -       -       (58 )     949  

Residential mortgages:

                                       

Closed end

    12,114       -       -       813       12,927  

Revolving home equity

    1,021       -       5       (58 )     968  

Consumer and other

    70       5       -       28       93  
    $ 24,491     $ 26     $ 6     $ 1,049     $ 25,520  

 

 
11

 

  

For individually impaired loans, the following tables set forth by class of loans at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 the recorded investment, unpaid principal balance and related allowance. The tables also set forth the average recorded investment of individually impaired loans and interest income recognized while the loans were impaired during the nine and three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. The recorded investment is the unpaid principal balance of the loans less any interest payments applied to principal and any direct chargeoffs plus or minus net deferred loan costs and fees. Any principal and interest payments received on nonaccrual impaired loans are applied to the recorded investment in the loans. The Bank recognizes interest income on other impaired loans using the accrual method of accounting. 

 

                           

Nine Months Ended

   

Three Months Ended

 
   

September 30, 2016

   

September 30, 2016

   

September 30, 2016

 
           

Unpaid

           

Average

   

Interest

   

Average

   

Interest

 
   

Recorded

   

Principal

   

Related

   

Recorded

   

Income

   

Recorded

   

Income

 
   

Investment

   

Balance

   

Allowance

   

Investment

   

Recognized

   

Investment

   

Recognized

 
   

(in thousands)

 

With no related allowance recorded:

                                                       

Commercial and industrial

  $ 1,000     $ 1,000     $ -     $ 1,158     $ 1     $ 1,100     $ 1  

Commercial mortgages - owner occupied

    567       641       -       579       -       570       -  

Residential mortgages:

                                                       

Closed end

    569       689       -       589       -       573       -  

Revolving home equity

    280       279       -       280       -       280       (5 )
                                                         

With an allowance recorded:

                                                       

Residential mortgages - closed end

    634       642       46       645       22       637       7  
                                                         

Total:

                                                       

Commercial and industrial

    1,000       1,000       -       1,158       1       1,100       1  

Commercial mortgages - owner occupied

    567       641       -       579       -       570       -  

Residential mortgages:

                                                       

Closed end

    1,203       1,331       46       1,234       22       1,210       7  

Revolving home equity

    280       279       -       280       -       280       (5 )
    $ 3,050     $ 3,251     $ 46     $ 3,251     $ 23     $ 3,160     $ 3  

 

                           

Nine Months Ended

   

Three Months Ended

 
   

December 31, 2015

   

September 30, 2015

   

September 30, 2015

 
           

Unpaid

           

Average

   

Interest

   

Average

   

Interest

 
   

Recorded

   

Principal

   

Related

   

Recorded

   

Income

   

Recorded

   

Income

 
   

Investment

   

Balance

   

Allowance

   

Investment

   

Recognized

   

Investment

   

Recognized

 
   

(in thousands)

 

With no related allowance recorded:

                                                       

Commercial mortgages:

                                                       

Multifamily

  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 1,889     $ -     $ 1,883     $ -  

Owner-occupied

    594       654       -       617       -       606       -  

Residential mortgages:

                                                       

Closed end

    306       405       -       365       -       351       -  

Revolving home equity

    522       521       -       574       4       572       4  
                                                         

With an allowance recorded:

                                                       

Commercial and industrial

    -       -       -       81       1       74       1  

Residential mortgages - closed end

    3,491       3,494       428       3,424       63       3,373       42  
                                                         

Total:

                                                       

Commercial and industrial

    -       -       -       81       1       74       1  

Commercial mortgages:

                                                       

Multifamily

    -       -       -       1,889       -       1,883       -  

Owner-occupied

    594       654       -       617       -       606       -  

Residential mortgages:

                                                       

Closed end

    3,797       3,899       428       3,789       63       3,724       42  

Revolving home equity

    522       521       -       574       4       572       4  
    $ 4,913     $ 5,074     $ 428     $ 6,950     $ 68     $ 6,859     $ 47  

 

 
12

 

  

Aging of Loans. The following tables present the aging of the recorded investment in loans by class of loans.

  

   

September 30, 2016

 
                   

Past Due

           

 

                 
                   

90 Days or

           

Total Past

                 
   

 

   

 

   

More and

   

 

   

Due Loans &

           

 

 
   

30-59 Days

Past Due

   

60-89 Days

Past Due

   

Still

Accruing

   

Nonaccrual

Loans

   

Nonaccrual

Loans

   

Current

   

Total

Loans

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ 125     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 125     $ 117,848     $ 117,973  

Commercial mortgages:

                                                       

Multifamily

    -       -       -       -       -       545,354       545,354  

Other

    -       -       -       -       -       387,107       387,107  

Owner-occupied

    619       -       -       567       1,186       120,683       121,869  

Residential mortgages:

                                                       

Closed end

    252       -       -       569       821       1,179,825       1,180,646  

Revolving home equity

    490       -       -       280       770       85,214       85,984  

Consumer and other

    -       -       -       -       -       5,976       5,976  
    $ 1,486     $ -     $ -     $ 1,416     $ 2,902     $ 2,442,007     $ 2,444,909  

 

   

December 31, 2015

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 93,056     $ 93,056  

Commercial mortgages:

                                                       

Multifamily

    -       -       -       -       -       572,322       572,322  

Other

    -       -       -       -       -       348,909       348,909  

Owner-occupied

    -       -       -       594       594       114,506       115,100  

Residential mortgages:

                                                       

Closed end

    991       -       -       456       1,447       1,023,768       1,025,215  

Revolving home equity

    -       -       -       280       280       87,568       87,848  

Consumer and other

    12       -       -       -       12       5,721       5,733  
    $ 1,003     $ -     $ -     $ 1,330     $ 2,333     $ 2,245,850     $ 2,248,183  

  

There were no loans in the process of foreclosure at September 30, 2016 or December 31, 2015. The Bank did not hold any foreclosed residential real estate property at September 30, 2016 or December 31, 2015.

 

Troubled Debt Restructurings. A restructuring constitutes a troubled debt restructuring when it includes a concession by the Bank and the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. In order to determine whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, an evaluation is performed as to the probability that the borrower will be in payment default on any of its debt in the foreseeable future without the modification. The Bank performs the evaluation under its internal underwriting policy.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2016 the Bank modified a commercial and industrial loan in a troubled debt restructuring. The modification involved restructuring a $1.0 million line of credit into a new time loan. The new time loan has a maturity of December 31, 2016 and a rate of interest that is lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Bank modified two loans to a single borrower in a troubled debt restructuring. The loans were a first lien residential mortgage with a pre and post-modification outstanding recorded investment of $2.7 million and a junior lien residential mortgage with a pre and post-modification outstanding recorded investment of $245,000. The restructuring reduced the interest rate on each loan from 5.25% to 4.00%, which is lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk. The restructuring resulted in a charge to the provision for loan losses of $332,000.

 

At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Bank had an allowance for loan losses of $46,000 and $395,000, respectively, allocated to specific troubled debt restructurings. The Bank had no commitments to lend additional amounts in connection with loans that were classified as troubled debt restructurings.

 

There were no troubled debt restructurings for which there was a payment default during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 that were modified during the twelve-month period prior to default. A loan is considered to be in payment default once it is 90 days contractually past due under the modified terms.

 

Risk Characteristics. Credit risk within the Bank’s loan portfolio primarily stems from factors such as borrower size, geographic concentration, industry concentration, real estate values, local and national economic conditions and environmental impairment of properties securing mortgage loans. The Bank’s commercial loans, including those secured by mortgages, are primarily made to small and medium-sized businesses. Such loans sometimes involve a higher degree of risk than those to larger companies because such businesses may have shorter operating histories, higher debt-to-equity ratios and may lack sophistication in internal record keeping and financial and operational controls. In addition, most of the Bank’s loans are made to businesses and consumers on Long Island and in the boroughs of New York City, and a large percentage of these loans are mortgage loans secured by properties located in those areas. The primary source of repayment for multifamily loans is cash flows from the underlying properties, a substantial portion of which are rent stabilized or rent controlled. Such cash flows are dependent on the strength of the local economy.

 

 
13

 

  

Credit Quality Indicators. The Bank categorizes loans into risk categories based on relevant information about the borrower’s ability to service their debt including, but not limited to, current financial information for the borrower and any guarantors, payment experience, credit underwriting documentation, public records and current economic trends.

 

Commercial and industrial loans and commercial mortgage loans are risk rated utilizing a ten point rating system. The ten point risk rating system is described hereinafter.  

 

Internally

Assigned

Risk Rating

   
     

1 – 2

 

Cash flow is of high quality and stable. Borrower has very good liquidity and ready access to traditional sources of credit. This category also includes loans to borrowers secured by cash and/or marketable securities within approved margin requirements.

3 – 4

 

Cash flow quality is strong, but shows some variability. Borrower has good liquidity and asset quality. Borrower has access to traditional sources of credit with minimal restrictions.

5 – 6

 

Cash flow quality is acceptable but shows some variability. Liquidity varies with operating cycle and assets provide an adequate margin of protection. Borrower has access to traditional sources of credit, but generally on a secured basis.

7

 

Watch - Cash flow has a high degree of variability and subject to economic downturns. Liquidity is strained and the ability of the borrower to access traditional sources of credit is diminished.

8

 

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

9

 

Substandard - Loans are inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the borrower or the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Bank will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.

10

 

Doubtful - Loans have all the inherent weaknesses of those classified substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions and values, highly questionable and improbable.

 

Risk ratings on commercial and industrial loans and commercial mortgages are initially assigned by the lending officer together with any necessary approval authority. The ratings are periodically reviewed and evaluated based upon borrower contact, credit department review or independent loan review.

 

The Bank's Loan Policy establishes requirements for the annual review of commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans. The requirements include details of the scope of coverage and selection process based on loan-type and risk rating. Among other requirements, at least 60% of the recorded investment of commercial real estate loans as of December 31 of the prior year must be reviewed annually. The frequency of the review of other loans is determined by the Bank’s ongoing assessments of the borrower’s condition.

 

Residential mortgage loans, revolving home equity lines, other consumer loans and small business credit scored loans are risk rated utilizing a three point rating system. In most cases, the borrower’s credit score dictates the risk rating. However, regardless of credit score, loans that are on management’s watch list or have been criticized or classified by management are assigned a risk rating of 3. A credit score is a tool used in the Bank’s loan approval process, and a minimum score of 700 is generally required for new loans. Credit scores for each borrower are updated at least annually. The risk ratings along with their definitions are as follows:

 

Internally

Assigned

Risk Rating

   

1

 

Credit score is equal to or greater than 680.

2

 

Credit score is 635 to 679.

3

 

Credit score is below 635 or, regardless of credit score, the loan has been classified, criticized or placed on watch.

  

 
14

 

 

The following tables present the recorded investment in commercial and industrial loans and commercial mortgage loans by class of loans and risk rating. Loans shown as Pass are all loans other than those risk rated Watch, Special Mention, Substandard or Doubtful.    

 

   

September 30, 2016

 
   

Internally Assigned Risk Rating

         
                   

Special

                         
   

Pass

   

Watch

   

Mention

   

Substandard

   

Doubtful

   

Total

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ 116,838     $ 135     $ -     $ 1,000     $ -     $ 117,973  

Commercial mortgages:

                                               

Multifamily

    538,029       -       7,325       -       -       545,354  

Other

    385,692       1,415       -       -       -       387,107  

Owner-occupied

    120,894       408       -       567       -       121,869  
    $ 1,161,453     $ 1,958     $ 7,325     $ 1,567     $ -     $ 1,172,303  

 

   

December 31, 2015

 

Commercial and industrial

  $ 91,950     $ 1,106     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 93,056  

Commercial mortgages:

                                               

Multifamily

    567,467       -       4,855       -       -       572,322  

Other

    346,419       900       -       1,590       -       348,909  

Owner-occupied

    110,641       3,865       -       594       -       115,100  
    $ 1,116,477     $ 5,871     $ 4,855     $ 2,184     $ -     $ 1,129,387  

  

The following tables present the recorded investment in residential mortgage loans, home equity lines and other consumer loans by class of loans and risk rating. Loans shown as Pass are all loans other than those risk rated Watch, Special Mention, Substandard or Doubtful.

 

   

September 30, 2016

 
   

Internally Assigned Risk Rating

         
                   

Special

                         
   

Pass

   

Watch

   

Mention

   

Substandard

   

Doubtful

   

Total

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Residential mortgages:

                                               

Closed end

  $ 1,178,452     $ 991     $ -     $ 1,203     $ -     $ 1,180,646  

Revolving home equity

    85,704       -       -       280       -       85,984  

Consumer and other

    5,627       -       -       -       -       5,627  
    $ 1,269,783     $ 991     $ -     $ 1,483     $ -     $ 1,272,257  

 

   

December 31, 2015

 

Residential mortgages:

                                               

Closed end

  $ 1,020,393     $ 1,025     $ -     $ 3,797     $ -     $ 1,025,215  

Revolving home equity

    87,326       -       -       522       -       87,848  

Consumer and other

    5,443       -       -       -       -       5,443  
    $ 1,113,162     $ 1,025     $ -     $ 4,319     $ -     $ 1,118,506  

  

Deposit account overdrafts were $349,000 and $290,000 at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Overdrafts are not assigned a risk rating and are therefore excluded from consumer loans in the tables above.

 

6 - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

On April 22, 2014, the stockholders of the Corporation approved the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan (“2014 Plan”). Upon approval of the 2014 Plan, no further awards could be made under the 2006 Stock Compensation Plan (“2006 Plan”).

 

2014 Plan. Under the 2014 Plan, awards may be granted to employees and non-employee directors as non-qualified stock options (“NQSOs”), stock appreciation rights (“SARs”), restricted stock awards, RSUs, or any combination thereof, any of which may be subject to performance-based vesting conditions. Awards may also be granted to employees as incentive stock options (“ISOs”). The exercise price of ISOs and NQSOs granted under the 2014 Plan may not be less than the fair market value of the Corporation’s common stock on the date the stock option is granted. The 2014 Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Awards granted to date under the 2014 Plan are substantially comprised of RSUs. All awards granted under the 2014 Plan will immediately vest in the event of a change in control, total and permanent disability, as defined, or death, and with certain exceptions will immediately vest in the event of retirement, as defined.

 

The Corporation has 1,500,000 shares of common stock reserved for awards under the 2014 Plan. Awards granted under the 2006 Plan that expire or are forfeited after April 22, 2014 will be added to the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance of awards under the 2014 Plan. All of the 1,500,000 shares may be issued pursuant to the exercise of stock options or SARs. A maximum of 525,000 shares may be issued as restricted stock awards or RSUs. At September 30, 2016, 1,356,973 shares of common stock remain available for issuance of awards under the 2014 Plan of which 369,353 shares remain available for issuance as restricted stock awards or RSUs.

 

 
15

 

  

In January 2016, the Board of Directors awarded 68,010 RSUs under the 2014 Plan of which 2,190 shares vested upon the retirement of two non-employee directors and 65,820 remain outstanding at September 30, 2016. These RSUs accrue dividends at the same rate as the dividends declared by the Board of Directors on the Corporation’s common stock. The accrued dividends are payable upon vesting of the awards. The outstanding awards include 55,640 performance-based RSUs with vesting based on the financial performance of the Corporation in 2018 and 10,180 RSUs that will vest in equal annual installments at the end of one, two and three years of service.

 

2006 Plan. The 2006 Plan was approved by the stockholders of the Corporation on April 18, 2006. The 2006 Plan permitted the granting of stock options, SARs, restricted stock awards and RSUs to employees and non-employee directors. Under the terms of the 2006 Plan, stock options and SARs could not have an exercise price that was less than 100% of the fair market value of one share of the underlying common stock on the date of grant. Through December 31, 2011, equity grants to executive officers and directors under the 2006 Plan consisted of a combination of NQSOs and RSUs, while equity grants to other officers consisted solely of NQSOs. Beginning in 2012, equity grants under the 2006 Plan consisted solely of RSUs. Stock options granted under the 2006 Plan have a five year vesting period and a ten year term. All awards granted under the 2006 Plan will immediately vest in the event of a change in control, retirement, total and permanent disability, as defined, or death.

 

Fair Value of RSUs. The grant date fair value of RSUs awarded in 2016 is equal to the market price of the shares underlying the awards on the grant date. For RSUs awarded prior to 2016, the grant date fair value is equal to the market price of the shares underlying the awards on the grant date, discounted for dividends that are not paid or accrued on these RSUs.

 

Fair Value of Stock Options. The grant date fair value of option awards is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

 

Compensation Expense. Compensation expense for performance-based RSUs is recognized over a three-year performance period and adjusted periodically to reflect the estimated number of shares of the Corporation’s common stock into which the RSUs will ultimately be convertible. However, for performance-based RSUs that provide for immediate vesting in the event of retirement, if the period between the grant date and the grantee’s eligible retirement date is less than three years, compensation expense is recognized ratably over this shorter period without regard to performance. Compensation expense for service-based RSUs is recognized over the applicable service-based vesting period with acceleration, as appropriate, based on a grantee’s eligible retirement date.

 

Compensation expense for stock options is recognized ratably over the five-year vesting period or the period from the grant date to the participant’s eligible retirement date, whichever is shorter.

 

The Corporation recorded compensation expense for share-based payments of $1,316,000 and $1,053,000 and recognized related income tax benefits of $552,000 and $434,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Stock Option Activity. The following table presents a summary of options outstanding under the Corporation’s stock-based compensation plans as of September 30, 2016, and changes during the nine month period then ended. 

 

                   

Weighted-

         
           

Weighted-

   

Average

   

Aggregate

 
           

Average

   

Remaining

   

Intrinsic

 
   

Number of

   

Exercise

   

Contractual

   

Value

 
   

Options

   

Price

   

Term (yrs.)

   

(in thousands)

 

Outstanding at January 1, 2016

    231,444     $ 15.96                  

Exercised

    (47,513 )     16.38                  

Forfeited or expired

    (3,875 )     15.12                  

Outstanding at September 30, 2016

    180,056     $ 15.87       2.64     $ 3,112  

Exercisable at September 30, 2016

    179,656     $ 15.85       2.63     $ 3,109  

  

All options outstanding at September 30, 2016 are either fully vested or expected to vest. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the first nine months of 2016 and 2015 was $644,000 and $401,000, respectively.

 

 
16

 

  

RSU Activity. The following table presents a summary of RSUs outstanding under the Corporation’s stock-based compensation plans as of September 30, 2016 and changes during the nine month period then ended.

  

                   

Weighted-

         
           

Weighted-

   

Average

   

Aggregate

 
           

Average

   

Remaining

   

Intrinsic

 
   

Number of

   

Grant-Date

   

Contractual

   

Value

 
   

RSUs

   

Fair Value

   

Term (yrs.)

   

(in thousands)

 

Outstanding at January 1, 2016

    157,351     $ 21.83                  

Granted

    68,010       27.26                  

Converted

    (51,754 )     19.68                  

Outstanding at September 30, 2016

    173,607     $ 24.60       1.43     $ 5,755  

Vested and Convertible at September 30, 2016

    -     $ -       -     $ -  

  

The number of RSUs in the table represents the maximum number of shares of the Corporation’s common stock into which the RSUs can be converted. All of the RSUs outstanding at September 30, 2016 are currently expected to vest and become convertible in the future. The total intrinsic value of RSUs converted during the first nine months of 2016 and 2015 was $1,445,000 and $965,000, respectively.

 

Unrecognized Compensation Cost. As of September 30, 2016, there was $1,787,000 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested equity awards comprised of $3,000 for stock options and $1,784,000 for RSUs. The total cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.7 years, which is based on weighted-average periods of 3.7 years and 1.7 years for stock options and RSUs, respectively.

 

Cash Received and Tax Benefits Realized. Cash received from stock option exercises for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was $778,000 and $524,000, respectively. The actual tax benefits realized for the tax deductions from stock option exercises for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 were $259,000 and $157,000, respectively.

 

Other. No cash was used to settle stock options during the first nine months of 2016 or 2015. The Corporation uses newly issued shares to settle stock option exercises and for the conversion of RSUs.

 

7 - DEFINED BENEFIT PENSION PLAN

 

The following table sets forth the components of net periodic pension cost. 

 

   

Nine Months Ended

   

Three Months Ended

 
   

September 30,

   

September 30,

 
   

2016

   

2015

   

2016

   

2015

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Service cost plus expected expenses and net of expected plan participant contributions

  $ 857     $ 892     $ 285     $ 297  

Interest cost

    1,188       1,055       396       351  

Expected return on plan assets

    (2,215 )     (2,314 )     (738 )     (770 )

Amortization of net actuarial loss

    183       -       61       -  

Net pension cost (credit)

  $ 13     $ (367 )   $ 4     $ (122 )

 

The Bank makes cash contributions to the pension plan (“Plan”) which comply with the funding requirements of applicable Federal laws and regulations. For funding purposes, the laws and regulations set forth both minimum required and maximum tax-deductible contributions. The Bank had no minimum required pension contribution for the Plan year ending September 30, 2016 and its maximum tax-deductible contribution for the tax year beginning January 1, 2016 is $1,553,000. Management has not yet determined the amount, if any, that the Bank will contribute to the Plan in 2016.

 

8 - FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

 

Financial Instruments Recorded at Fair Value. When measuring fair value, the Corporation uses a fair value hierarchy, which is designed to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The hierarchy involves three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

 

Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Corporation has the ability to access at the measurement date.

 

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

 

Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that reflect the Corporation’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.

 

 
17

 

  

The Corporation deems transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy to have occurred on the date of the event or change in circumstance that caused the transfer. There were no transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 or 2015.

 

The fair values of the Corporation’s investment securities designated as available-for-sale at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are set forth in the tables that follow. These values are determined on a recurring basis using matrix pricing (Level 2 inputs). Matrix pricing, which is a mathematical technique widely used in the industry to value debt securities, does not rely exclusively on quoted prices for the specific securities but rather on the relationship of such securities to other benchmark quoted securities. 

 

            Fair Value Measurements Using:  
           

Quoted Prices

   

Significant

         
           

in Active

   

Other

   

Significant

 
           

Markets for

   

Observable

   

Unobservable

 
           

Identical Assets

   

Inputs

   

Inputs

 
   

Total

   

(Level 1)

   

(Level 2)

   

(Level 3)

 
   

(in thousands)

 

September 30, 2016:

                               

Available-for-Sale Securities:

                               

State and municipals

  $ 465,508     $ -     $ 465,508     $ -  

Pass-through mortgage securities

    185,460       -       185,460       -  

Collateralized mortgage obligations

    186,766       -       186,766       -  
    $ 837,734     $ -     $ 837,734     $ -  
                                 

December 31, 2015:

                               

Available-for-Sale Securities:

                               

State and municipals

  $ 435,693     $ -     $ 435,693     $ -  

Pass-through mortgage securities

    147,265       -       147,265       -  

Collateralized mortgage obligations

    154,742       -       154,742       -  
    $ 737,700     $ -     $ 737,700     $ -  

  

Assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis at December 31, 2015, are set forth in the table that follows. There were no such assets at September 30, 2016. Real estate appraisals utilized in measuring the fair value of impaired loans may employ a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the independent appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. In arriving at fair value, the Corporation adjusts the value set forth in the appraisal by deducting costs to sell and a distressed sale adjustment, if needed. The adjustments made by the appraisers and the Corporation are deemed to be significant unobservable inputs and therefore result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs used for determining the fair value of impaired loans. Because the Corporation has a small amount of impaired loans measured at fair value, the impact of unobservable inputs on the Corporation’s financial statements is not material. 

 

           

Fair Value Measurements Using:

 
           

Quoted Prices

   

Significant

         
           

in Active

   

Other

   

Significant

 
           

Markets for

   

Observable

   

Unobservable

 
           

Identical Assets

   

Inputs

   

Inputs

 
   

Total

   

(Level 1)

   

(Level 2)

   

(Level 3)

 
   

(in thousands)

 

December 31, 2015:

                               

Residential mortgages held-for-sale:

                               

Closed end

  $ 25     $ -     $ -     $ 25  

Revolving home equity

    80       -       -       80  
    $ 105     $ -     $ -     $ 105  

Impaired loan:

                               

Residential mortgage - closed end

  $ 119     $ -     $ -     $ 119  

 

The impaired loan set forth in the preceding table had a principal balance of $152,000 at December 31, 2015, and a valuation allowance of $33,000. During the nine and three months ended September 30, 2016, the Corporation recorded credit provisions for loan losses of $33,000 and $24,000, respectively, for impaired loans measured at fair value. During the nine and three months ended September 30, 2015 the Corporation recorded credit provisions of $6,000 and $0 for impaired loans measured at fair value.

 

The residential mortgage loans held-for-sale at December 31, 2015 in the preceding table were accounted for on a nonaccrual basis and carried at fair value. These loans were sold during the first quarter of 2016 at a loss of $5,000.

 

 
18

 

  

Financial Instruments Not Recorded at Fair Value. Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time. Such estimates are generally subjective in nature and dependent upon a number of significant assumptions associated with each financial instrument or group of similar financial instruments, including estimates of discount rates, risks associated with specific financial instruments, estimates of future cash flows, and relevant available market information. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates. In addition, fair value estimates do not reflect the value of anticipated future business, premiums or discounts that could result from offering for sale at one time the Corporation’s entire holdings of a particular financial instrument, or the tax consequences of realizing gains or losses on the sale of financial instruments.

 

The following table sets forth the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments that are not recorded at fair value in the Corporation’s financial statements at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. 

 

 

Level of

 

September 30, 2016

   

December 31, 2015

 
 

Fair Value

 

Carrying

           

Carrying

         
 

Hierarchy

 

Amount

   

Fair Value

   

Amount

   

Fair Value

 
     

(in thousands)

 

Financial Assets:

                                 

Cash and cash equivalents

Level 1

  $ 48,858     $ 48,858     $ 39,635     $ 39,635  

Held-to-maturity securities

Level 2

    10,322       10,680       12,366       12,905  

Held-to-maturity securities

Level 3

    1,593       1,593       2,005       2,005  

Loans

Level 3

    2,416,150       2,424,991       2,220,808       2,203,418  

Restricted stock

Level 1

    27,106       27,106       28,435       28,435  

Accrued interest receivable:

                                 

Investment securities

Level 2

    4,756       4,756       4,403       4,403  

Loans

Level 3

    6,142       6,142       5,501       5,501  
                                   

Financial Liabilities:

                                 

Checking deposits

Level 1

    789,644       789,644       777,994       777,994  

Savings, NOW and money market deposits

Level 1

    1,542,366       1,542,366       1,195,968       1,195,968  

Time deposits

Level 2

    292,874       299,555       310,713       313,331  

Short-term borrowings

Level 1

    101,522       101,522       211,502       211,502  

Long-term debt

Level 2

    379,212       384,543       365,712       364,935  

Accrued interest payable:

                                 

Checking, savings, NOW and money market deposits

Level 1

    142       142       43       43  

Time deposits

Level 2

    50       50       3,224       3,224  

Short-term borrowings

Level 1

    1       1       3       3  

Long-term debt

Level 2

    570       570       669       669  

   

The following methods and assumptions are used by the Corporation in measuring the fair value of financial instruments disclosed in the preceding table.

 

Cash and cash equivalents. The recorded book value of cash and cash equivalents is their fair value.

 

Investment securities. Fair values are based on quoted prices for similar assets in active markets or derived principally from observable market data.

 

Loans. The total loan portfolio is divided into three segments: (1) residential mortgages; (2) commercial mortgages and commercial loans; and (3) consumer loans. Each segment is further divided into pools of loans with similar financial characteristics (i.e. product type, fixed versus variable rate, time to rate reset, length of term, conforming versus nonconforming). Cash flows for each pool, including estimated prepayments if applicable, are discounted utilizing market or internal benchmarks which management believes are reflective of current market rates for similar loan products. The discounted value of the cash flows is reduced by the related allowance for loan losses to arrive at an estimate of fair value.

 

Restricted stock. The recorded book value of Federal Home Loan Bank stock and Federal Reserve Bank stock is their fair value because the stock is redeemable at cost.

 

Deposit liabilities. The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as checking deposits, money market deposits, NOW accounts and savings deposits, is equal to their recorded book value. The fair value of time deposits is based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows. The discount rate is equivalent to the rate at which the Bank could currently replace these deposits with wholesale borrowings from the Federal Home Loan Bank.

 

Borrowed funds. For short-term borrowings maturing within ninety days, the recorded book value is a reasonable estimate of fair value. The fair value of long-term debt is based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows. The discount rate is equivalent to the rate at which the Bank could currently replace these borrowings with wholesale borrowings from the Federal Home Loan Bank.

 

 
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Accrued interest receivable and payable. For these short-term instruments, the recorded book value is a reasonable estimate of fair value.

 

Off-balance-sheet items. The fair value of off-balance sheet items is not considered to be material.

 

9 - IMPACT OF ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

 

The pronouncements discussed in this section are not intended to be an all-inclusive list, but rather only those pronouncements that could potentially have an impact on the Corporation’s financial position, results of operations or disclosures.

 

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” The amendments in ASU 2014-09 provide a comprehensive framework for addressing revenue recognition issues that can be applied to all contracts with customers. While the guidance in ASU 2014-09 supersedes most existing industry-specific revenue recognition accounting guidance, much of a bank’s revenue comes from financial instruments such as debt securities and loans that are scoped-out of the guidance. The amendments in ASU 2014-09 also include improved disclosures to enable users of financial statements to better understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized. For public entities such as the Corporation, ASU 2014-09, as amended, is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Management is currently evaluating the impact that the amendments in ASU 2014-09 could have on the Corporation’s financial position, results of operations and disclosures, but does not currently believe that such impact will be material.

 

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01 “Financial Instruments – Overall.” The amendments in ASU 2016-01 are intended to improve the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial assets and liabilities to provide users of financial statements with information that is more useful for decision-making purposes. Among other changes, ASU 2016-01 would require equity securities to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized through net income, but would allow equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values to be remeasured at fair value either upon the occurrence of an observable price change or upon identification of an impairment. The amendments would simplify the impairment assessment of such equity securities and would require enhanced disclosure about these investments. ASU 2016-01 would also require separate presentation of financial assets and liabilities by measurement category and type of instrument, such as securities or loans, on the balance sheet or in the notes, and would eliminate certain other disclosures relating to the methods and assumptions used to estimate fair value. For public entities such as the Corporation, the amendments in ASU 2016-01 are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is not permitted. ASU 2016-01 is not expected to have a material impact on the Corporation’s financial position, results of operations or disclosures.

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 “Leases.” ASU 2016-02 affects any entity that enters into a lease and is intended to increase the transparency and comparability of financial statements among organizations. The ASU requires, among other changes, a lessee to recognize on its balance sheet a lease asset and a lease liability for those leases previously classified as operating leases. The lease asset would represent the right to use the underlying asset for the lease term and the lease liability would represent the discounted value of the required lease payments to the lessor. The ASU would also require entities to disclose key information about leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. Management is currently evaluating the impact that ASU 2016-02 will have on the Corporation’s financial position, results of operations and disclosures.

 

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09 “Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting.” ASU 2016-09 affects any entity that issues share-based payment awards to its employees. The ASU involves the simplification of several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted. The Corporation may decide to early adopt ASU 2016-09 in the fourth quarter of 2016, effective as of January 1, 2016. Among other things, early adoption would increase 2016 net income through a credit to income tax expense and a debit to surplus in an amount ranging between $300,000 and $400,000.

 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” ASU 2016-13 affects entities holding financial assets that are not accounted for at fair value through net income, including loans, debt securities, and other financial assets. The ASU requires financial assets measured at amortized cost basis to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected by recording an allowance for credit losses. ASU 2016-13 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Management is currently evaluating the impact that ASU 2016-13 will have on the Corporation’s financial position, results of operations and disclosures.

 

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15 “Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments.” ASU 2016-15 affects all entities that are required to present a statement of cash flows under Topic 230, Statement of Cash Flows, and other Topics, addressing eight specific cash flow issues with the objective of reducing diversity in practice. ASU 2016-13 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. ASU 2016-15 is not expected to have a material impact on the Corporation’s financial position, results of operations or disclosures.

 

 
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10 – SUBSEQUENT EVENT

 

On October 27, 2016, the Corporation announced a 3-for-2 stock split. The stock split will be effected through a 50% stock dividend. The additional shares that will be issued as a result of the stock split will be distributed on November 28, 2016 to shareholders of record on November 10, 2016. No adjustments have been made to the equity accounts of the Corporation or to share and per share amounts included in the unaudited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto as of September 30, 2016 to reflect the effect of the split. 

 

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

 

The following is management's discussion and analysis of The First of Long Island Corporation’s financial condition and operating results during the periods included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, and should be read in conjunction with such financial statements. The Corporation’s financial condition and operating results principally reflect those of its wholly-owned subsidiary, The First National Bank of Long Island, and subsidiaries wholly-owned by the Bank, either directly or indirectly, FNY Service Corp., The First of Long Island REIT, Inc. and The First of Long Island Agency, Inc. The consolidated entity is referred to as the Corporation and the Bank and its subsidiaries are collectively referred to as the Bank. Although the Bank’s primary service area is Nassau and Suffolk Counties, Long Island, it does have two commercial banking branches in Manhattan, two full service branches in Queens and one in Brooklyn. Expansion of the Bank’s branch distribution system, particularly in the New York City boroughs of Queens and Brooklyn, is an ongoing initiative.

 

Overview

 

Net income and earnings per share for the first nine months of 2016 were $23.1 million and $1.52, respectively, representing increases over the same period last year of 19.7% and 11.8%, respectively. Dividends per share increased 5.2%, from $.58 for the first nine months of 2015 to $.61 for the current nine-month period. Returns on average assets (ROA) and average equity (ROE) for the first nine months of 2016 were .94% and 10.84%, respectively, versus .91% and 10.79%, respectively, for the same period last year. Book value per share increased by 11.3% from $17.78 at year-end 2015 to $19.79 at the close of the current quarter. The credit quality of the Bank’s loan and securities portfolios remains excellent and the mortgage pipeline at quarter-end was strong at $173 million.    

 

Analysis of Earnings – Nine Month Periods. Net income for the first nine months of 2016 was $23.1 million, an increase of $3.8 million, or 19.7%, over the same period last year. The increase is primarily attributable to an increase in net interest income of $8.4 million, or 15.3%, and a decrease in the provision for loan losses of $892,000. The impact of these items was partially offset by increases in noninterest expense, before debt extinguishment costs, of $4.0 million and income tax expense of $1.5 million.

 

The increase in net interest income was primarily driven by growth in average interest-earning assets of $442.4 million, or 16.1%. Average interest-earning assets grew mostly because of increases in the average balances of loans and securities. While most of the loan growth occurred in mortgage loans, commercial and industrial loans also grew. The growth in loans and securities was primarily funded by growth in the average balances of noninterest-bearing checking deposits, interest-bearing deposits and stockholders’ equity.

 

The decrease in the provision for loan losses for the current nine month period versus the same period last year is largely due to lesser loan growth and a decline in historical loss rates. Also contributing to the decrease was a decline in specific reserves during the current nine month period versus an increase during the same period last year.

 

The increase in noninterest expense, before debt extinguishment costs, of $4.0 million is primarily attributable to increases in salaries, employee benefits expense, consulting expense, computer and telecommunications expense, occupancy and equipment expense and marketing expense.

 

The $1.5 million increase in income tax expense is attributable to higher pre-tax earnings in the current nine-month period partially offset by additional New York State income tax benefits derived from the Corporation’s captive REIT and the inclusion of a one-time charge of $402,000 in the same period last year caused by changes in New York City tax law.

 

Asset Quality. The Bank’s allowance for loan losses to total loans decreased 3 basis points from 1.21% at year-end 2015 to 1.18% at September 30, 2016. The decrease is primarily due to improved economic conditions and a reduction in the historical loss component of the allowance for loan losses. The provision for loan losses was $1.5 million and $2.4 million in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively. The $1.5 million provision in the first nine months of 2016 is primarily attributable to loan growth and adjustments to qualitative factors used in determining the allowance for loan losses. The impact of these items was partially offset by a decline in historical loss rates and a reduction in specific reserves. The $2.4 million provision in the first nine months of 2015 was primarily attributable to loan growth and an increase in specific reserves, partially offset by improved economic conditions.

 

The credit quality of the Bank’s loan portfolio remains excellent. Nonaccrual loans at September 30, 2016 were essentially unchanged from December 31, 2015, amounting to $1.4 million, or .06% of total loans outstanding, as of each date. During the third quarter of 2016, nonaccrual loans declined $3.7 million from $5.1 million at June 30, 2016. The decrease was primarily attributable to the payoff of two related mortgage loans. Troubled debt restructurings at September 30, 2016 amounted to $2.5 million, or .10% of total loans outstanding. Of the troubled debt restructurings, $1.6 million are performing in accordance with their modified terms and $844,000 are nonaccrual and included in the aforementioned amount of nonaccrual loans. Troubled debt restructurings declined $2.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The decrease was attributable to the payoff of two loans to one borrower, partially offset by one loan that was restructured in a troubled debt restructuring during the current quarter. Loans past due 30 through 89 days amounted to $1.5 million, or .06% of total loans outstanding, at September 30, 2016, compared to $1.0 million, or .04%, at December 31, 2015.

 

 
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The credit quality of the Bank’s securities portfolio also remains excellent. The Bank’s mortgage securities are backed by mortgages underwritten on conventional terms, with 61% of these securities being full faith and credit obligations of the U.S. government and the balance being obligations of U.S. government sponsored entities. The remainder of the Bank’s securities portfolio principally consists of high quality, general obligation municipal securities rated AA or better by major rating agencies. In selecting municipal securities for purchase, the Bank uses credit agency ratings for screening purposes only and then performs its own credit analysis. On an ongoing basis, the Bank periodically assesses the credit strength of the municipal securities in its portfolio and makes decisions to hold or sell based on such assessments.

 

Key Strategic Initiatives. Key strategic initiatives will continue to include loan and deposit growth through effective relationship management, targeted solicitation efforts, new product offerings and continued expansion of the Bank’s branch distribution system, particularly in the New York City boroughs of Queens and Brooklyn. With respect to loan growth, the Bank will continue to prudently manage concentration risk and further develop its broker and correspondent relationships. Small business credit scored loans, equipment finance loans and Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, along with the Bank’s traditional commercial and industrial loan products, will be originated to diversify the Bank’s loan portfolio and help mitigate the impact of the low rate environment on the Bank’s earnings.

 

The Bank’s growing branch distribution system currently consists of forty-five branches in Nassau and Suffolk Counties, Long Island and the boroughs of Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan. The Bank expects to open two more branches in the next six months and continues to evaluate sites for further branch expansion. One of the new branches will be in College Point, Queens and the other in East Islip, Long Island. In addition to loan and deposit growth, management is also focused on growing noninterest income from existing and potential new sources, which may include the acquisition of fee-based businesses.

 

Challenges We Face. The federal funds target rate increased by twenty-five basis points in December 2015. Further increases could exert upward pressure on non-maturity deposit rates. Intermediate and long-term interest rates are impacted by national and global forces and have been low and volatile for an extended period of time. They declined significantly since year-end 2015 and could remain low or go lower in the foreseeable future. This could cause investing and lending rates to be suboptimal. There is significant price competition for loans in the Bank’s marketplace and little room for the Bank to further reduce its deposit rates. These factors will make it difficult to improve net interest margin and could result in a decline in net interest margin from its current level and inhibit earnings growth for the foreseeable future.

 

The banking industry continues to be faced with new and complex regulatory requirements and enhanced supervisory oversight. Banking regulators are increasingly concerned about, among other things, growth, commercial real estate concentrations, underwriting of commercial real estate and commercial and industrial loans, capital levels and cyber security. Regulatory requirements and enhanced supervisory oversight are exerting downward pressure on revenues and upward pressure on required capital levels and the cost of doing business.

 

 
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Net Interest Income

 

Average Balance Sheet; Interest Rates and Interest Differential. The following table sets forth the average daily balances for each major category of assets, liabilities and stockholders’ equity as well as the amounts and average rates earned or paid on each major category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. The average balances of investment securities include unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, and the average balances of loans include nonaccrual loans.  

 

   

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 
   

2016

   

2015

 
   

Average

   

Interest/

   

Average

   

Average

   

Interest/

   

Average

 
   

Balance

   

Dividends

   

Rate

   

Balance

   

Dividends

   

Rate

 
   

(dollars in thousands)

 

Assets:

                                               

Interest-earning bank balances

  $ 36,434     $ 140       .51 %   $ 22,099     $ 42       .25 %

Investment securities:

                                               

Taxable

    367,569       5,780       2.10       360,919       6,074       2.24  

Nontaxable (1)

    465,054       15,779       4.52       436,941       15,668       4.78  

Loans (1)

    2,322,461       60,854       3.49       1,929,159       51,339       3.55  

Total interest-earning assets

    3,191,518       82,553       3.45       2,749,118       73,123       3.55  

Allowance for loan losses

    (27,860 )                     (24,052 )                

Net interest-earning assets

    3,163,658                       2,725,066                  

Cash and due from banks

    30,504                       28,723                  

Premises and equipment, net

    31,236                       28,720                  

Other assets

    58,876                       59,100                  
    $ 3,284,274                     $ 2,841,609                  
                                                 

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity:

                                               

Savings, NOW and money market deposits

  $ 1,483,338       3,833       .35     $ 1,134,741       1,840       .22  

Time deposits

    302,001       3,910       1.73       322,312       4,565       1.89  

Total interest-bearing deposits

    1,785,339       7,743       .58       1,457,053       6,405       .59  

Short-term borrowings

    44,193       154       .47       50,705       113       .30  

Long-term debt

    373,798       5,458       1.95       363,937       5,877       2.16  

Total interest-bearing liabilities

    2,203,330       13,355       .81       1,871,695       12,395       .89  

Checking deposits

    780,980                       709,896                  

Other liabilities

    15,668                       21,250                  
      2,999,978                       2,602,841                  

Stockholders' equity

    284,296                       238,768                  
    $ 3,284,274                     $ 2,841,609                  
                                                 

Net interest income (1)

          $ 69,198                     $ 60,728          

Net interest spread (1)

                    2.64 %                     2.66 %

Net interest margin (1)

                    2.89 %                     2.94 %

 

(1) Tax-equivalent basis. Interest income on a tax-equivalent basis includes the additional amount of interest income that would have been earned if the Corporation's investment in tax-exempt loans and investment securities had been made in loans and investment securities subject to Federal income taxes yielding the same after-tax income. The tax-equivalent amount of $1.00 of nontaxable income was $1.54 in each period presented using the statutory Federal income tax rate of 35%.

 

 
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Rate/Volume Analysis. The following table sets forth the effect of changes in volumes, rates and rate/volume on tax-equivalent interest income, interest expense and net interest income. 

 

   

Nine Months Ended September 30,

 
   

2016 Versus 2015

 
   

Increase (decrease) due to changes in:

 
                   

Rate/

   

Net

 
   

Volume

   

Rate

   

Volume (1)

   

Change

 
   

(in thousands)

 

Interest Income:

                               

Interest-earning bank balances

  $ 26     $ 43     $ 29     $ 98  

Investment securities:

                               

Taxable

    101       (389 )     (6 )     (294 )

Nontaxable

    1,004       (856 )     (37 )     111  

Loans

    10,497       (844 )     (138 )     9,515  

Total interest income

    11,628       (2,046 )     (152 )     9,430  
                                 

Interest Expense:

                               

Savings, NOW & money market deposits

    565       1,092       336       1,993  

Time deposits

    (284 )     (392 )     21       (655 )

Short-term borrowings

    (14 )     64       (9 )     41  

Long-term debt

    165       (563 )     (21 )     (419 )

Total interest expense

    432       201       327       960  
Increase (decrease) in net interest income   $ 11,196     $ (2,247 )   $ (479 )   $ 8,470  

  

(1) Represents the change not solely attributable to change in rate or change in volume but a combination of these two factors. The rate/volume variance could be allocated between the volume and rate variances shown in the table based on the absolute value of each to the total for both.

 

Net Interest Income

 

Net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis for the first nine months of 2016 was $69.2 million, an increase of $8.5 million, or 13.9%, over $60.7 million for the first nine months of 2015. The increase resulted primarily from an increase in average interest-earning assets of $442.4 million, or 16.1%, partially offset by a 5 basis point decline in net interest margin from 2.94% to 2.89%.

 

The increase in average interest-earning assets is primarily comprised of growth in the average balances of loans of $393.3 million, or 20.4%, and securities of $34.8 million, or 4.4%. While most of the loan growth occurred in mortgage loans, commercial and industrial loans also grew. The Bank’s continued ability to grow loans is attributable to a variety of factors including, among others, competitive pricing, targeted solicitation efforts, the introduction of new loan products, advertising campaigns and broker and correspondent relationships for both residential and commercial mortgages.

 

The growth in loans and securities was primarily funded by growth in the average balances of noninterest-bearing checking deposits of $71.1 million, or 10.0%, interest-bearing deposits of $328.3 million, or 22.5%, and stockholders’ equity of $45.5 million, or 19.1%. The Bank’s ongoing ability to grow deposits is attributable to, among other things, continued expansion of the Bank’s branch distribution system, targeted solicitation of local commercial businesses and municipalities, new and expanded lending relationships, new small business checking and loan products and the expansion of merchant sales relationships. In addition, management believes that the Bank’s positive reputation in its marketplace has contributed to both loan and deposit growth. The increase in stockholders’ equity is mostly attributable to the retention of net income and the sale of common stock through an underwritten public offering completed in the second quarter of 2016.

 

Intermediate and long-term interest rates have been low and volatile for an extended period of time. In a low interest rate environment: (1) loans are sometimes originated and investments are sometimes made at yields lower than existing portfolio yields; (2) some loans prepay in full resulting in the immediate writeoff of deferred costs; (3) prepayment speeds on mortgage securities can be elevated resulting in accelerated amortization of purchase premiums; (4) the benefit of no cost funding in the form of noninterest-bearing checking deposits and capital is suppressed; and (5) the Bank’s ability to reduce deposit rates diminishes. These factors, partially offset by an elevated level of prepayment penalty income caused by the low rate environment, contributed to a 5 basis point decline in the Bank’s net interest margin from 2.94% for the first nine months of 2015 to 2.89% for the current nine month period. Despite the decline in net interest margin, the Bank’s net interest income continues to increase as a result of the aforementioned growth in interest-earning assets. On a going forward basis, if available yields for loans and securities, prepayment penalties and the cost of deposits and borrowings remain at current levels, net interest margin is not expected to meaningfully decline. This expectation is based on the fact that significant portions of the Bank’s mortgage loan and securities portfolios were originated or purchased in a low rate environment at yields similar to those currently available.

 

 
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Noninterest Income

 

Noninterest income includes service charges on deposit accounts, Investment Management Division income, gains or losses on sales of securities, and all other items of income, other than interest, resulting from the business activities of the Corporation.

 

Noninterest income before securities gains decreased $94,000, or 1.6%, when comparing the first nine months of 2016 to the same period last year. The decrease is primarily attributable to a $177,000 decrease in real estate tax refunds, a $91,000 sales tax refund in 2015 and a decline in Investment Management Division income of $50,000. The impact of these items was partially offset by proceeds of bank-owned life insurance that exceeded the cash surrender value by $103,000, an increase of $56,000 in income from the sale of mutual funds and annuities and an increase of $45,000 in cash value accretion on bank-owned life insurance.

 

Noninterest Expense

 

Noninterest expense is comprised of salaries, employee benefits expense, occupancy and equipment expense and other operating expenses incurred in supporting the various business activities of the Corporation.

 

Noninterest expense before debt extinguishment costs increased $4.0 million, or 12.0%, when comparing the first nine months of 2016 to the same period last year. The increase is primarily attributable to increases in salaries of $1.3 million, or 8.6%, employee benefits expense of $801,000, or 18.4%, consulting expense of $712,000, computer and telecommunications expense of $408,000, occupancy and equipment expense of $284,000 and marketing expense of $206,000. The increase in salaries is primarily due to new branch openings, additions to staff in the back office, higher stock-based compensation expense and normal annual salary adjustments. The increase in employee benefits expense is partially due to a $309,000 increase in group health insurance expense resulting from increases in staff count and the rates being charged by insurance carriers. Employee benefits expense also increased because of increases in pension expense of $380,000, a credit of $367,000 for the nine month period ended September 30, 2015 compared to a charge of $13,000 for the current nine month period, and incentive compensation costs of $118,000. Pension expense increased largely because the 2015 return on plan assets fell short of expectation and the number of plan participants increased. The increase in consulting expense is due to a one-time charge of $800,000 in the second quarter of 2016 for advisory services relating to a vendor contract renegotiation. The Corporation expects that the cost savings negotiated by the consultant over the life of the contract will far exceed the one-time consulting charge. The increase in computer and telecommunications expense is mainly attributable to a growth-related increase in telecommunications capacity and one-time expenses of approximately $126,000. The Bank’s ongoing investment in and spending on technology and telecommunications-related projects should enhance operating efficiency, business continuity controls and cybersecurity. The increase in occupancy and equipment expense includes the operating costs of new branches and a growth-related increase in depreciation on the Bank’s facilities and equipment.

 

Effective July 1, 2016, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) reduced the assessment rate charged to certain depository institutions, including the Bank, for FDIC insurance coverage. The reduction in the assessment rate is expected to lower the Bank’s FDIC insurance costs by approximately $150,000 per quarter based on the current assessment base which is calculated as quarterly average total assets less total capital. The savings resulting from the lower assessment rate is expected to be offset over time by growth-related increases in the assessment base.

 

Income Taxes

 

Income tax expense as a percentage of book income (“effective tax rate”) was 24.1% for the first nine months of 2016 compared to 23.3% for the same period last year. The $1.5 million increase in income tax expense is attributable to higher pre-tax earnings in the current nine-month period partially offset by additional New York State income tax benefits derived from the Corporation’s captive REIT and the inclusion of a one-time charge of $402,000 in the same period last year caused by changes in New York City tax law.

 

Results of Operations – Third Quarter 2016 Versus Third Quarter 2015

 

Net income for the third quarter of 2016 was $8.0 million, representing an increase of $1.5 million, or 23.0%, over $6.5 million earned in the third quarter of last year. The increase is primarily attributable to an increase in net interest income of $2.8 million, partially offset by increases of $274,000 in both salaries and occupancy and equipment expense and a $792,000 increase in income tax expense. The increases in net interest income, salaries and occupancy and equipment expense occurred for substantially the same reasons discussed above with respect to the nine month periods. Excluding the aforementioned one-time charge of $402,000, income tax expense also increased for the same reasons discussed with respect to the nine month periods.

 

Application of Critical Accounting Policies

 

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported asset and liability balances and revenue and expense amounts. Our determination of the allowance for loan losses is a critical accounting estimate because it is based on our subjective evaluation of a variety of factors at a specific point in time and involves difficult and complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain. In the event that management’s estimate needs to be adjusted based on, among other things, additional information that comes to light after the estimate is made or changes in circumstances, such adjustment could result in the need for a significantly different allowance for loan losses and thereby materially impact, either positively or negatively, the Bank’s results of operations.

 

 
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The Bank’s Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses Committee (“ALLL Committee”), which is a management committee chaired by the Chief Credit Officer, meets on a quarterly basis and is responsible for determining the allowance for loan losses after considering, among other things, the results of credit reviews performed by the Bank’s independent loan review consultants and the Bank’s credit department. In addition, and in consultation with the Bank’s Chief Financial Officer and Chief Risk Officer, the ALLL Committee is responsible for implementing and maintaining accounting policies and procedures surrounding the calculation of the required allowance. The Board Loan Committee reviews and approves the Bank’s Loan Policy at least once each calendar year. The Bank’s allowance for loan losses is reviewed and ratified by the Board Loan Committee on a quarterly basis and is subject to periodic examination by the OCC whose safety and soundness examination includes a determination as to the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses to absorb probable incurred losses.

 

The first step in determining the allowance for loan losses is to identify loans in the Bank’s portfolio that are individually deemed to be impaired and then measure impairment losses based on either the fair value of collateral or the discounted value of expected future cash flows. In estimating the fair value of real estate collateral, management utilizes appraisals or evaluations adjusted for costs to dispose and a distressed sale adjustment, if needed. Estimating the fair value of collateral other than real estate is also subjective in nature and sometimes requires difficult and complex judgments. Determining expected future cash flows can be more subjective than determining fair values. Expected future cash flows could differ significantly, both in timing and amount, from the cash flows actually received over the loan’s remaining life.

 

In addition to estimating losses for loans individually deemed to be impaired, management also estimates collective impairment losses for pools of loans that are not specifically reviewed. The Bank’s highest average annualized loss experience over periods of 24, 36, 48 or 60 months is generally the starting point in determining its allowance for loan losses for each pool of loans. Management believes that this approach appropriately reflects losses from the current economic cycle and those incurred losses in the Bank’s loan portfolio. However, since future losses could vary significantly from those experienced in the past, on a quarterly basis management adjusts its historical loss experience to reflect current conditions. In doing so, management considers a variety of general qualitative factors and then subjectively determines the weight to assign to each in estimating losses. The factors include, among others: (1) delinquencies, (2) economic conditions as judged by things such as median home prices and commercial vacancy rates in the Bank’s service area and national and local unemployment levels, (3) trends in the nature and volume of loans, (4) concentrations of credit, (5) changes in lending policies and procedures, (6) experience, ability and depth of lending staff, (7) changes in the quality of the loan review function, (8) environmental risks, and (9) loan risk ratings. Substantially all of the Bank’s allowance for loan losses allocable to pools of loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment results from these qualitative adjustments to historical loss experience. Because of the nature of the qualitative factors and the difficulty in assessing their impact, management’s resulting estimate of losses may not accurately reflect actual losses in the portfolio.

 

Although the allowance for loan losses has two separate components, one for impairment losses on individual loans and one for collective impairment losses on pools of loans, the entire allowance for loan losses is available to absorb realized losses as they occur whether they relate to individual loans or pools of loans.

 

Asset Quality

 

The Corporation has identified certain assets as risk elements. These assets include nonaccrual loans, other real estate owned, loans that are contractually past due 90 days or more as to principal or interest payments and still accruing and troubled debt restructurings. These assets present more than the normal risk that the Corporation will be unable to eventually collect or realize their full carrying value. Information about the Corporation’s risk elements is set forth below. 

 

   

September 30,

   

December 31,

 
   

2016

   

2015

 
   

(dollars in thousands)

 

Nonaccrual loans:

               

Troubled debt restructurings

  $ 844     $ 900  

Other (includes $105,000 in loans held-for-sale at 12/31/15)

    572       535  

Total nonaccrual loans

    1,416       1,435  

Loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing

    -       -  

Other real estate owned

    -       -  

Total nonperforming assets

    1,416       1,435  

Troubled debt restructurings - performing

    1,634       3,581  

Total risk elements

  $ 3,050     $ 5,016  
                 

Nonaccrual loans as a percentage of total loans

    .06 %     .06 %

Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total loans and other real estate owned

    .06 %     .06 %

Risk elements as a percentage of total loans and other real estate owned

    .12 %     .22 %

  

In addition to the Bank’s past due, nonaccrual and restructured loans, the disclosure of other potential problem loans can be found in “Note 5 – Loans” to the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements of this Form 10-Q.

 

 
26

 

  

Allowance and Provision for Loan Losses

 

The allowance for loan losses is established through provisions for loan losses charged against income. When available information confirms that specific loans, or portions thereof, are uncollectible, these amounts are charged off against the allowance for loan losses, and subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance for loan losses.

 

The allowance for loan losses increased $1.5 million during the first nine months of 2016, amounting to $28.8 million, or 1.18% of total loans, at September 30, 2016, compared to $27.3 million, or 1.21% of total loans, at December 31, 2015. During the first nine months of 2016, the Bank had loan chargeoffs of $37,000, recoveries of $30,000 and recorded a provision for loan losses of $1.5 million. During the first nine months of 2015, the Bank had loan chargeoffs and recoveries of $125,000 and $22,000, respectively, and recorded a provision for loan losses of $2.4 million. The $1.5 million provision in the first nine months of 2016 is primarily attributable to loan growth and adjustments to qualitative factors used in determining the allowance for loan losses. The impact of these items was partially offset by a decrease in historical loss rates and a reduction in specific reserves. The $2.4 million provision in the first nine months of 2015 was primarily attributable to loan growth and an increase in specific reserves, partially offset by improved economic conditions.

 

The allowance for loan losses is an amount that management currently believes will be adequate to absorb probable incurred losses in the Bank’s loan portfolio. As more fully discussed in the “Application of Critical Accounting Policies” section of this discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations, the process for estimating credit losses and determining the allowance for loan losses as of any balance sheet date is subjective in nature and requires material estimates. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. Other detailed information on the Bank’s allowance for loan losses, impaired loans and the aging of loans can be found in “Note 5 – Loans” to the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-Q.

 

The amount of future chargeoffs and provisions for loan losses will be affected by, among other things, economic conditions on Long Island and in New York City. Such conditions could affect the financial strength of the Bank’s borrowers and will affect the value of real estate collateral securing the Bank’s mortgage loans. Loans secured by real estate represent approximately 95% of the Bank’s total loans outstanding at September 30, 2016. Most of these loans were made to borrowers domiciled on Long Island and in the boroughs of New York City. Although economic conditions are showing signs of improvement, they have been sluggish for an extended period of time. These conditions have caused some of the Bank’s borrowers to be unable to make the required contractual payments on their loans and could cause the Bank to be unable to realize the full carrying value of such loans through foreclosure or other collection efforts.

 

Future provisions and chargeoffs could also be affected by environmental impairment of properties securing the Bank’s mortgage loans. At the present time, management is not aware of any environmental pollution originating on or near properties securing the Bank’s loans that would materially affect the carrying value of such loans.

 

Cash Flows and Liquidity

 

Cash Flows. The Corporation’s primary sources of cash are deposits, maturities and amortization of loans and investment securities, operations and borrowings. The Corporation uses cash from these and other sources to fund loan growth, purchase investment securities, repay borrowings, expand and improve its physical facilities, pay cash dividends and for general operating purposes.

 

During the first nine months of 2016, the Corporation’s cash and cash equivalent position increased by $9.2 million, from $39.6 million at December 31, 2015 to $48.9 million at September 30, 2016. The increase occurred primarily because cash provided by deposit growth, long-term borrowings, paydowns and sales of securities, paydowns of loans, proceeds from issuance of common stock and operations exceeded cash used to repay borrowings, originate loans and purchase securities.

 

Securities increased $97.6 million during the first nine months of 2016, from $752.1 million at year-end 2015 to $849.6 million at September 30, 2016. The increase is mainly attributable to purchases of $234.7 million of available-for-sale securities, partially offset by maturities and redemptions of $76.9 million and proceeds from sales of $62.0 million of available-for-sale securities during the period.

 

During the first nine months of 2016, total deposits grew $340.2 million, or 14.9%, to $2.6 billion at September 30, 2016. The increase was attributable to growth in savings, NOW and money market deposits of $346.4 million, or 29.0%, and noninterest-bearing checking balances of $11.7 million, partially offset by a decrease in time deposits of $17.8 million. The growth in savings, NOW and money market deposits is mainly attributable to new branch openings and an increase in municipal deposit balances.

 

Borrowings include Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) borrowings and liabilities under repurchase agreements. Total borrowings decreased $96.5 million, or 16.7%, during the first nine months of 2016. The decrease is attributable to a reduction in short-term borrowings of $110.0 million, partially offset by an increase in long-term debt of $13.5 million. From a funding perspective, the net decrease in total borrowings during the first nine months of 2016 was more than offset by the growth in deposits discussed above. Long-term debt totaled $379.2 million at September 30, 2016, representing 79% of total borrowings at quarter-end. The Bank’s long-term fixed-rate borrowing position and time deposits are intended to reduce the impact that an eventual increase in interest rates could have on the Bank’s earnings.

 

 
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Liquidity. The Bank has a board committee approved Liquidity Policy and Liquidity Contingency Plan, which are intended to ensure that the Bank has sufficient liquidity at all times to meet the ongoing needs of its customers in terms of credit and deposit outflows, take advantage of earnings enhancement opportunities and respond to liquidity stress conditions should they arise.

 

The Bank has both internal and external sources of liquidity that can be used to fund loan growth and accommodate deposit outflows. The Bank’s primary internal sources of liquidity are its overnight investments, investment securities designated as available-for-sale, maturities and monthly payments on its investment securities and loan portfolios and operations. At September 30, 2016, the Bank had approximately $406 million of unencumbered available-for-sale securities.

 

The Bank is a member of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (“FRB”) and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLB of New York”), and has a federal funds line with a commercial bank. In addition to customer deposits, the Bank’s primary external sources of liquidity are secured borrowings from the FRB and FHLB of New York. In addition, the Bank can purchase overnight federal funds under its existing line. However, the Bank’s FRB membership, FHLB of New York membership and federal funds line do not represent legal commitments to extend credit to the Bank. The amount that the Bank can potentially borrow is currently dependent on, among other things, the amount of unencumbered eligible securities and loans that the Bank can use as collateral and the collateral margins required by the lenders. Based on the Bank’s unencumbered securities and loan collateral, a substantial portion of which is in place at the FRB and FHLB of New York, the Bank had borrowing capacity of approximately $1.6 billion at September 30, 2016.

 

Deleveraging Transactions

 

In April 2016, the Bank completed a deleveraging transaction. The primary purpose of the transaction was to eliminate inefficient leverage and thereby provide capital to accommodate growth. The transaction involved the sale of $40.3 million of mortgage securities at a gain of $1.8 million and utilization of most of the resulting proceeds to prepay $30.0 million of long-term debt at a cost of $1.8 million. The Bank completed a similar deleveraging transaction in the second quarter of 2015. The 2015 transaction involved the sale of $61.8 million of securities at a gain of $995,000 and utilization of the resulting proceeds to prepay $63.5 million of long-term debt at a cost of $1.1 million

 

Capital

 

Stockholders’ equity totaled $310.4 million at September 30, 2016, an increase of $59.4 million from $250.9 million at December 31, 2015. The most significant reason for the increase was the sale of 1,300,000 shares of common stock through an underwritten public offering at a price of $29 per share. The capital raised in the offering amounted to $35.3 million, net of $2.4 million of issuance costs, and is being used to support continued growth. The other primary reasons for the increase in stockholders’ equity were net income of $23.1 million, an increase in the after-tax amount of unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities of $3.2 million and the issuance of shares under the Corporation’s stock-based compensation, dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plans of $6.3 million, partially offset by cash dividends declared of $9.3 million.

 

During 2016, the Corporation’s Board of Directors increased the amount of stock that an individual can purchase on a quarterly basis under the stock purchase component of the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan from $20,000 to $50,000. This change is intended to provide additional capital that can be used to accommodate future growth.

 

The Corporation’s capital management policy is designed to build and maintain capital levels that exceed regulatory standards and appropriately provide for growth. The regulatory capital ratios of the Corporation and the Bank as of September 30, 2016 are as follows: 

 

   

Corporation

   

Bank

 
                 

Tier 1 leverage

    8.88 %     8.87 %

Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based

    14.78 %     14.77 %

Tier 1 risk-based

    14.78 %     14.77 %

Total risk-based

    16.04 %     16.02 %

  

The Corporation and the Bank exceeded the Basel III minimum capital adequacy requirements, including the Capital Conservation Buffer of .625% for the Bank for 2016, and the Bank was well capitalized under the Prompt Corrective Action provisions at September 30, 2016.

 

The Corporation’s Shareholder Rights Protection Plan expired on August 1, 2016 and was not renewed by the Board of Directors.

 

On October 27, 2016, the Corporation announced a 3-for-2 stock split. The stock split will be effected through a 50% stock dividend. The additional shares that will be issued as a result of the stock split will be distributed on November 28, 2016 to shareholders of record on November 10, 2016. No adjustments have been made to the equity accounts of the Corporation or to share and per share amounts included in the unaudited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto as of September 30, 2016 to reflect the effect of the split. 

 

 
28

 

  

ITEM 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

The Bank invests in interest-earning assets, which are funded by interest-bearing deposits and borrowings, noninterest-bearing deposits and capital. The Bank’s results of operations are subject to risk resulting from interest rate fluctuations generally and having assets and liabilities that have different maturity, repricing, and prepayment/withdrawal characteristics. The Bank defines interest rate risk as the risk that the Bank's net interest income and/or economic value of equity (“EVE”) will change when interest rates change. The principal objective of the Bank’s asset liability management activities is to optimize current and future net interest income while at the same time maintain acceptable levels of interest rate and liquidity risk and facilitate the funding needs of the Bank.

 

The Bank monitors and manages interest rate risk through a variety of techniques including traditional gap analysis and the use of interest rate sensitivity models. Both gap analysis and interest rate sensitivity modeling involve a variety of significant estimates and assumptions and are done at a specific point in time. Changes in the estimates and assumptions made in gap analysis and interest rate sensitivity modeling could have a significant impact on projected results and conclusions. Therefore, these techniques may not accurately reflect the actual impact of changes in the interest rate environment on the Bank’s net interest income or EVE.

 

Traditional gap analysis involves arranging the Bank’s interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities by repricing periods and then computing the difference, or interest-rate sensitivity gap, between the assets and liabilities which are estimated to reprice during each time period and cumulatively through the end of each time period. Gap analysis requires estimates as to when individual categories of interest-sensitive assets and liabilities will reprice and assumes that assets and liabilities assigned to the same repricing period will reprice at the same time and in the same amount. Among other things, gap analysis does not fully take into account the fact that the repricing of some assets and liabilities is discretionary and subject to competitive and other pressures.

 

Through use of interest rate sensitivity modeling, the Bank first projects net interest income over a five-year time period assuming a static balance sheet and no changes in interest rates from current levels. Utilization of a static balance sheet ensures that interest rate risk embedded in the Bank’s current balance sheet is not masked by assumed balance sheet growth or contraction. Net interest income is then projected over a five-year time period utilizing: (1) a static balance sheet and various interest rate change scenarios, including both ramped and shock changes and changes in the shape of the yield curve; and (2) a most likely balance sheet growth scenario and these same interest rate change scenarios. The interest rate scenarios modeled are based on, among other things, the shape of the current yield curve and the relative level of rates and management’s expectations as to potential future yield curve shapes and rate levels.

 

The Bank also uses interest rate sensitivity modeling to calculate EVE in the current rate environment assuming shock increases and decreases in interest rates. EVE is the difference between the present value of expected future cash flows from the Bank’s assets and the present value of the expected future cash flows from the Bank’s liabilities. Present values are determined using discount rates that management believes are reflective of current market conditions. EVE can capture long-term interest rate risk that would not be captured in a five-year projection of net interest income.

 

In utilizing interest rate sensitivity modeling to project net interest income and calculate EVE, management makes a variety of estimates and assumptions which include, among others, the following: (1) how much and when yields and costs on individual categories of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities will change in response to projected changes in market interest rates; (2) future cash flows, including prepayments of mortgage assets and calls of municipal securities; (3) cash flow reinvestment assumptions; (4) appropriate discount rates to be applied to loan, deposit and borrowing cash flows; and (5) decay or runoff rates for nonmaturity deposits such as checking, savings, NOW and money market accounts. The repricing of loans and borrowings and the reinvestment of loan and security cash flows are generally assumed to be impacted by the full amount of each assumed rate change, while the repricing of nonmaturity deposits is not. For nonmaturity deposits, management makes estimates of how much and when it will need to change the rates paid on the Bank’s various deposit products in response to changes in general market interest rates. These estimates are based on, among other things, product type, management’s experience with needed deposit rate adjustments in prior interest rate change cycles, the results of a nonmaturity deposit study conducted by an independent consultant during 2015 and management’s assessment of competitive conditions in its marketplace.

 

The information provided in the following table is based on a variety of estimates and assumptions that management believes to be reasonable, the more significant of which are set forth hereinafter. The base case information in the table shows (1) a calculation of the Corporation’s EVE at September 30, 2016 arrived at by discounting estimated future cash flows at rates that management believes are reflective of current market conditions and (2) an estimate of net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis for the year ending September 30, 2017 assuming a static balance sheet, the adjustment of repricing balances to current rate levels, and the reinvestment at current rate levels of cash flows from maturing assets and liabilities in a mix of assets and liabilities that mirrors the Bank’s strategic plan. In addition, in calculating EVE, cash flows for nonmaturity deposits are based on a base case average life of 7.0 years as determined by a nonmaturity deposit study conducted during 2015.

 

The rate change information in the table shows estimates of net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis for the year ending September 30, 2017 and calculations of EVE at September 30, 2016 assuming rate changes of plus 100, 200 and 300 basis points and minus 100 basis points. The rate change scenarios were selected based on, among other things, the relative level of current interest rates and are: (1) assumed to be shock or immediate changes, (2) occur uniformly across the yield curve regardless of the duration to maturity or repricing of specific assets and liabilities, and (3) impact the repricing and reinvestment of all assets and liabilities, except nonmaturity deposits, by the full amount of the rate change. In projecting future net interest income under the indicated rate change scenarios, activity is simulated by assuming that cash flows from maturing assets and liabilities are reinvested in a mix of assets and liabilities that mirrors the Bank’s strategic plan. The changes in EVE from the base case have not been tax affected.

 

 
29

 

 

 

 

   

Economic Value of Equity

   

Net Interest Income for

 
   

at September 30, 2016

   

Year Ending September 30, 2017

 
           

Percent Change

           

Percent Change

 
           

From

           

From

 

Rate Change Scenario (dollars in thousands)

 

Amount

   

Base Case

   

Amount

   

Base Case

 

+ 300 basis point rate shock

  $ 320,505       -5.9 %   $ 80,559       -15.6 %

+ 200 basis point rate shock

    376,323       10.5 %     92,785       -2.8 %

+ 100 basis point rate shock

    371,697       9.2 %     94,609       -0.9 %

Base case (no rate change)

    340,525       -       95,498       -  

- 100 basis point rate shock

    251,637       -26.1 %     90,740       -5.0 %

  

As shown in the preceding table, assuming a static balance sheet, an immediate decrease in interest rates of 100 basis points or an immediate increase in interest rates of 100, 200 or 300 basis points could negatively impact the Bank’s net interest income for the year ending September 30, 2017. The Bank’s net interest income could be negatively impacted in a shock down 100 basis point scenario because, among other things, the rates currently being paid on many of the Bank’s deposit products are approaching zero and there is little room to reduce them. In the shock up 100, 200 or 300 basis point scenarios, net interest income could be negatively impacted because it is assumed that the Bank will need to make more significant changes to the rates paid on its nonmaturity deposits in order to remain competitive. Changes in management’s estimates as to the rates that will need to be paid on nonmaturity deposits could have a significant impact on the net interest income amounts shown for each scenario in the table.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This Report on Form 10-Q and the documents incorporated into it by reference contain various forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include statements of goals; intentions and expectations; estimates of risks and of future costs and benefits; assessments of probable loan losses; assessments of market risk; and statements of the ability to achieve financial and other goals. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “would,” “should,” “could,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project” and other similar words and expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties which may change over time. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. We do not assume any duty and do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements. Because forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions and uncertainties, actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those that we anticipated in our forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from historical performance.

 

Our forward-looking statements are subject to the following principal risks and uncertainties: general economic conditions and trends, either nationally or locally; conditions in the securities markets; fluctuations in the trading price of our common stock; changes in interest rates; changes in deposit flows, and in the demand for deposit and loan products and other financial services; changes in real estate values; changes in the quality or composition of our loan or investment portfolios; changes in competitive pressures among financial institutions or from non-financial institutions; our ability to retain key members of management; changes in legislation, regulation, and policies; and a variety of other matters which, by their nature, are subject to significant uncertainties. We provide greater detail regarding some of these factors in the Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, in Part I under “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” Our forward-looking statements may also be subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those that we may discuss elsewhere in other documents we file with the SEC from time to time.

 

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

The Corporation’s Principal Executive Officer, Michael N. Vittorio, and Principal Financial Officer, Mark D. Curtis, have evaluated the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, they have concluded that the Corporation’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the third quarter of 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 

 

In the ordinary course of business, the Corporation is party to various legal actions which are incidental to the operation of its business. Although the ultimate outcome and amount of liability, if any, with respect to these legal actions cannot presently be ascertained with certainty, in the opinion of management, based upon information currently available to us, any resulting liability is believed to be immaterial to the Corporation's consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

 
30

 

  

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

 

Not applicable

 

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

 

Not applicable

 

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

 

Not applicable

 

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

Not applicable

 

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Not applicable

 

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

 

See Index of Exhibits that follows. 

 

 
31

 

  

INDEX OF EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit No.

 

Description of Exhibit 

31.1

 

Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)

31.2

 

Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)

32

 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) and U.S.C. Section 1350

101

 

The following materials from the Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2016, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity, (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (vi) Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 
32

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

     Pursuant to the requirements of Section l3 or l5(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.

 

 

THE FIRST OF LONG ISLAND CORPORATION

 

  (Registrant)  

 

 

 

 

Dated: November 9, 2016

By

/s/ MICHAEL N. VITTORIO

 

 

MICHAEL N. VITTORIO, President & Chief Executive Officer

 

  (principal executive officer)  

 

 

 

 

  By /s/ MARK D. CURTIS  
  MARK D. CURTIS, Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer       
  (principal financial officer)  
       
  By /s/ WILLIAM APRIGLIANO  
  WILLIAM APRIGLIANO, Senior Vice President & Chief Accounting Officer  
  (principal accounting officer)  

 

33