Derivatives And Hedging (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

General Discussion of Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]

Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block]

The following table summarizes Sterling’s mortgage banking operations and interest rate swaps:

	September 30, 2012
			Fair Value
	Notional		Asset		Liability
	(in thousands)
Interest rate lock commitments, net	$	297,723	$	20,452	$	0
Forward commitments	476,500		0		12,458
Interest rate swaps - broker-dealer	40,303		0		2,415
Interest rate swaps - customer	42,877		2,392		0
	December 31, 2011
			Fair Value
	Notional		Asset		Liability
	(in thousands)
Interest rate lock commitments, net	$	181,456	$	5,558	$	0
Forward commitments	315,579		0		3,785
Interest rate swaps - broker-dealer	43,213		0		4,527
Interest rate swaps - customer	45,820		4,711		0

Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block]

The following table sets forth these gains and losses:

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2012			2011			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Mortgage banking operations	$	(2,694	)	$	(2,116	)	$	(3,349	)	$	(5,015	)
Other noninterest income	80			1,191			(600		)	1,228