UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C.  20549  FORM 10-K  Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934  For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007  Commission File Number 000-27622  HIGHLANDS BANKSHARES, INC. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)  Virginia
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation or organization)
        54-1796693
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)340 West Main Street
Abingdon, Virginia
(Address of principal executive offices)
        24210-1128
(Zip Code)
  Registrants telephone number, including area code:(276) 628-9181  Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Common Stock, $0.625 par value (Title of class)  Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  YesoNox  Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15d of the Act. YesoNox  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.  YesxNoo  Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrants knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.x  Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or smaller reporting company. (See definition of large accelerated filer, accelerated filer and smaller reporting company in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Large accelerated filer
        o
        Accelerated filer
        oNon-accelerated filer
        o
        Smaller reporting company
        x(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
  Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act) YesoNox  State the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the registrants most recently completed second fiscal quarter. $65,309,389.  Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrants classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date.  As of March 12, 2008, there were 5,053,482 shares of Common Stock.  DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Annual Financial Statements  Part II Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of ShareholdersPart III   Table of ContentsPageNumberPart IItem 1.
        Business
        3Item 1A.
        Risk Factors
        15Item 1B.
        Unresolved Staff Comments
        17Item 2.
        Properties
        17Item 3.
        Legal Proceedings
        17Item 4.
        Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
        17Part IIItem 5.
        Market for Registrants Common Equity, Related Stockholder
Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
        18Item 6.
        Selected Financial Data
        19Item 7.
        Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operation
        20Item 7A.
        Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
        33Item 8.
        Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
        36Item 9.
        Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
Accounting and Financial Disclosure
        36Item 9A.
        Controls and Procedures
        36Item 9B.
        Other Information
        37Part IIIItem 10.
        Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
        37Item 11.
        Executive Compensation
        37Item 12.
        Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and
Management and Related Stockholder Matters
        37Item 13.
        Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
        38Item 14.
        Principal Accounting Fees and Services
        38Part IVItem 15.
        Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
        39
    2    Part I.  Item I.  Business  History and Business Highlands Bankshares, Inc. (the Company) is a one-bank holding company organized under the laws of Virginia in 1995 and registered under the Bank Holding Company Act (BHCA). The Company conducts the majority of its business operations through its wholly-owned bank subsidiary, Highlands Union Bank (the Bank). The Company has two direct subsidiaries as of December 31, 2007: the Bank, which was formed in 1985, and Highlands Capital Trust I (HCTI), a statutory business trust (the Trust) which was formed in 1998. Highlands Union Bank The Bank is a Virginia state chartered bank that was incorporated in 1985. The Bank operates a full-service banking business from its headquarters in Abingdon, Virginia, and its twelve area full service branch offices. The Bank offers general retail and commercial banking services to individuals, businesses and local government unit customers. These products and services include accepting deposits in the form of checking accounts, money market deposit accounts, interest-bearing demand deposit accounts, savings accounts and time deposits; making real estate, commercial, revolving, consumer, credit card and agricultural loans; offering letters of credit; providing other consumer financial services, such as automatic funds transfer, collections, night depository, safe deposit, travelers checks and savings bond sales; and providing other miscellaneous services normally offered by commercial
banks. The Bank makes loans in all major loan categories, including commercial, commercial and residential real estate, construction and consumer loans. The Bank has two wholly owned subsidiaries, Highlands Union Insurance Services, Inc. (HUIS), which was formed in 1999, and Highlands Union Financial Services, Inc. (HUFS), which was formed in 2001.  At December 31, 2007, the Bank had total assets of $657.79 million. Total deposits at this date were $517.59 million. The Banks net income for 2007 was $5.38 million which produced a return on average assets of 0.83% and a return on average stockholders' equity of 11.35%. Refer to Note 21 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the Banks risk-based capital ratios. Highlands Union Insurance Services, Inc. Highlands Union Insurance Services, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank, was formed in 1999. The Bank, through HUIS, joined a consortium of approximately forty-seven other financial institutions to form Bankers Insurance, LLC. Bankers Insurance, LLC, as of December 31, 2007, had purchased eight full service insurance agencies across the state of Virginia. HUIS is used to sell insurance services through Bankers Insurance, LLC.  The number of owner banks involved with Bankers Insurance, LLC was forty-two as of December 31, 2007. Highlands Union Financial Services, Inc. The Bank operated a financial services department for the purpose of brokering various investment vehicles until January 2, 2001.  At that time, Highlands Union Financial Services, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank, was created to convert that department into a separate legal entity in order to transact financial services in all of the Banks market areas. HUFS was formed in order for the Bank to continue to offer third-party mutual funds, annuities and other financial services to its customers  3    in all market areas served.  During 2004, changes to the NASD rules required financial services to be operated underneath the bank structure once again. This change occurred August 1, 2004. The only activity running through Highlands Union Financial Services now relates to commissions from the sale of life insurance In February 2005, the Bank became an equity owner in Bankers Investments, LLC, headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. The Banks equity investment was $250,000 for two units of ownership. Bankers Investments, LLC was formed for the purpose of providing owner banks the ability to offer a full line of financial services to their customers. As of December 31, 2007, Bankers Investments, LLC was in partnership with 35 owner banks. Lending Activities Commercial Loans The Bank makes both secured and unsecured loans to businesses and to individuals for business purposes. Loan requests are granted based upon several factors including credit history, past and present relationships with the Bank, marketability of collateral and the cash flow of the borrowers. Unsecured commercial loans must be supported by a satisfactory balance sheet and income statement. Collateralized business loans may be secured by a security interest in marketable investments, accounts receivable, business equipment and/or general intangibles of the business. In addition, or as an alternative, the loan may be secured by a deed of trust lien on business real estate. The risks associated with commercial loans are related to the strength of the individual business, the value of loan collateral and the general health of the economy. Residential Real Estate Loans Loans secured by residential real estate are originated and held by the Bank. Residential real estate loans carry risks associated with the continued creditworthiness of the borrower and changes in the value of collateral. The Bank also offers secondary market fixed rate mortgages through multiple sources. These loans and servicing rights are generally sold immediately into the secondary market and fees received are booked into income. These loans must meet certain criteria generally set by the secondary market. Construction Loans The Bank makes loans for the purpose of financing the construction of business and residential structures to financially responsible business entities and individuals. These loans are subject to the same credit criteria as commercial and residential real estate loans. In addition to the risks associated with all real estate loans, construction loans bear the risks that the project will not be finished according to schedule, the project will not be finished according to budget or the value of the collateral may at any point in time may be less than the principal amount of the loan. Construction loans also bear the risk that the general contractor, who may or may not be the Bank's loan customer, is unable to finish the construction project as planned because of financial pressures unrelated to the project. Loans to customers that are made as permanent financing of construction loans may
likewise under certain circumstances be affected by external financial pressures.  4    Consumer Loans The Bank routinely makes consumer loans, both secured and unsecured. The credit history, cash flow and character of individual borrowers is evaluated as a part of the credit decision. Loans used to purchase vehicles or other specific personal property and loans associated with real estate are usually secured with a lien on the subject vehicle or property. Negative changes in a customer's financial circumstances due to a large number of factors, such as illness or loss of employment, can place the repayment of a consumer loan at risk. In addition, deterioration in collateral value adds risk to consumer loans. Sales and Purchases of Loans The Bank will occasionally buy or sell all or a portion of a loan. The Bank will consider selling a loan or a participation in a loan, if: (i) the full amount of the loan to a single borrower will exceed the Bank's legal lending limit,which is 15 percent of the unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus of the bank; (ii) the full amount of the loan, when combined with a borrower's previously outstanding loans, will exceed the Bank's legal lending limit to a single borrower; (iii) the Board of Directors or an internal Loan Committee believes that a particular borrower has a sufficient level of debt with the Bank; (iv) the borrower requests the sale; (v) the loan to deposit ratio is at or above the optimal level as determined by Bank management; and/or (vi) the loan may create too great a concentration of loans in one particular location or in one
particular type of loan. The Bank will consider purchasing a participation in a loan from another financial institution if the loan meets all applicable credit quality standards and (i) the Bank's loan to deposit ratio is at a level where additional loans would be desirable; and/or (ii) a common customer requests the purchase. The following table sets forth, for the three fiscal years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005, the percentage of total operating revenue contributed by each class of similar services which contributed 15% or more of total operating revenues of the Company during such periods. Period
        Class of Service
        Percentage of Total RevenuesDecember 31, 2007
        Interest and Fees on Loans
        73.03%December 31, 2006
        Interest and Fees on Loans
        72.46%
 Market Area Highlands Union Bank Market Area The Banks primary market area consists of: 
        all of Washington County, Virginia
 
        portions of Smyth County, Virginia
 
        the City of Bristol, Virginia
 
        the City of Bristol, Tennessee and adjacent portions of Sullivan County, Tennessee
  5    
        the Town of Rogersville, Tennessee and adjacent portions of Hawkins County,  Tennessee
 
        the City of Sevierville, Tennessee and adjacent portions of Sevier County, Tennessee,
 
        the City of Knoxville, Tennessee and adjacent portions of Knox County, Tennessee
 
        the Town of Banner Elk and adjacent portions of Avery County, North Carolina
 
        the Town of Boone and adjacent portions of Watauga County, North Carolina
 
        the Town of West Jefferson, North Carolina and adjacent portions of Ashe County, North Carolina
 The local economy is diverse and is oriented toward retail and service, light manufacturing, higher education and agriculture. The independent city of Bristol, Virginia is located in far southwestern Virginia and lies directly on the Virginia-Tennessee state line. Washington County surrounds Bristol to the west, north and east. In the Bristol/Washington County community, manufacturing, trade, and  services sectors are the largest industries, in terms of total number of jobs in 2006. The services sector provides the most jobs and contributes 34.9 percent of the total city/county employment. This totals 11,591 employees. The manufacturing and trade industries total 19.3% and 19.1% of all employment.The latest unemployment figures as of September 2007 reflect an unemployment rate of 4.25% for the Bristol/Washington County, Virginia area. Per capita income reported in 2005 was $27,127.  The Bank has a branch office located in Marion which is the county seat of Smyth County, Virginia. Marion is approximately 30 miles northeast of Abingdon, Virginia. The latest unemployment figures reflect an unemployment rate of 4.24% reported as of September 30, 2007. In Smyth County, manufacturing, services, and government are the largest employment industries. Manufacturing is the largest employment industry and makes up 34.2% of all jobs throughout the county, totaling 4,737 individuals. The services and government sectors account for 24.7% and 20.9% of the total jobs, respectively.In Smyth County, Virginia, the entire number of jobs in all industries overall has decreased by 65 total jobs from January 2006.  Bristol, Tennessee is located in Sullivan County, Tennessee and is Bristol, Virginias twin city. Bristol, Tennessees three largest employment sectors are services, manufacturing and retail trade. The latest unemployment figures reflect an unemployment rate of 3.9% for November 2007.  Rogersville, Tennessee is located in Hawkins County approximately 45 miles southwest of Bristol, Tennessee. Rogersville is the county seat for Hawkins County.  Rogersvilles three largest employment sectors are services, manufacturing and retail trade. The latest unemployment figures reflect an unemployment rate of 4.2% for November 2007. In Hawkins County, manufacturing, and retail trade are the largest sectors, in terms of total employment. Manufacturing is the major employer in the county making up 65.5% percent of all jobs throughout the county, totaling 4,203 employees.  Sevierville, Tennessee is located in Sevier County, Tennessee. Sevierville, Tennessee is located approximately 20 miles east of Knoxville, Tennessee. Sevierville serves as the county seat and is the largest city located in Sevier County. Major employers for the county include tourism, retail, and service  6    related industries. There is some industrial base that mitigates some of the seasonal employment fluctuation from the tourism and related businesses. The latest unemployment figures reflect an unemployment rate of 4.3% for November 2007.  Sevier County, Tennessee had a population that was estimated at 81,382 for the year 2006. The total population has increased sharply, since its 2000 population of 71,709. This growth represents an increase of 14.3%.The city of Sevierville is currently involved in a $182 million dollar development project that will include both private and public capital improvements.The primary improvement will be a 200,000 square foot Events Center.  Knoxville, Tennessee is located in Knox County, Tennessee.  Knoxville, Tennessee is located approximately 20 miles west of Sevierville, Tennessee.  Knoxville serves as the county seat  and is the third largest city in the state of Tennessee.  Major employers for the county include manufacturing, retail, entertainment industries, and warehousing and distribution industries.  Knox County had a population that was estimated at 404,972 for the year 2006 and Knoxville had an estimated population of 173,890 for the year 2006.  Knoxvilles central location to two major interstate highways which link the eastern half of the United States continues to provide many opportunities for economic growth in the future.  Boone, North Carolina is located in Watauga County in the northwestern mountains of North Carolina.  Watauga County, North Carolina has an estimated population of 43,406 as of July 2006.  Watauga Countys three largest employment sectors are private industry, education services and retail trade. The latest unemployment figures reflect an unemployment rate of 4.0% as of June 2007. Watauga County, North Carolinas largest employer is Appalachian State University. Appalachian State is the sixth largest university in the University of North Carolina system. Employment at Appalachian State University has remained relatively stable over the past three years. Per capita income personal income as of 2005 was $28,323.  Banner Elk, North Carolina is located in Avery County in the northwestern mountains of North Carolina.  Avery County, North Carolina had an estimated population of 18,174 as of July 2006.  In Avery County, health care and social assistance, retail trade, and the accommodation and food services sectors are the largest industries, in terms of total number of jobs in 2006.  The latest unemployment figures reflect an unemployment rate of 5.1% as of June 2007.  Per capita income personal income as of 2005 was $25,115.  West Jefferson, North Carolina is located in Ashe County in the northwestern mountains of North Carolina.  Ashe County, North Carolina had a population that was estimated at 25,778 as of July 2006.In Ashe County, manufacturing, education and health services, and public administration are the largest employment industries. The latest unemployment figures reflect an unemployment rate of 5.4% as of June 2007.  Per capita income personal income as of 2005 was $25,899.  Competition  The banking and financial service business in Virginia, generally, and in the Banks market areas specifically, is highly competitive. The increasingly competitive environment is a result of changes in regulation, changes in technology and product delivery systems and new competition from non-traditional financial services. The Bank competes for loans and deposits with other commercial banks, savings and loan associations, securities and brokerage companies, mortgage companies, money market funds, credit unions and other non-bank financial service providers. Many of these competitors are much larger in total assets and capitalization, have greater access to capital markets and offer a broader array of financial services than the Bank. In order to compete, the Bank relies upon service-based business philosophies, personal relationships with customers, specialized services tailored to
meet customers' needs and the convenience of office locations and extended hours of operation. In addition, the Bank is generally  7    competitive with other financial institutions in its market areas with respect to interest rates paid on deposit accounts, interest rates charged on loans and other service charges on loans and deposit accounts. Deposit market share for each of the Banks market areas can be found on the FDICs website atwww.fdic.govunder the Industry Analysis/Summary of Deposits section.  Certain Regulatory Considerations  The Company and the Bank are subject to various state and federal banking laws and regulations which impose specific requirements or restrictions on and provide for general regulatory oversight with respect to virtually all aspects of operations. As a result of the substantial regulatory burdens on banking, financial institutions, including the Company and the Bank, are disadvantaged relative to other competitors who are not as highly regulated, and their costs of doing business are much higher.  The following is a summary of the material provisions of certain statutes, rules and regulations which affect the Company and the Bank. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the particular statutory and regulatory provisions referred to below, and is not intended to be an exhaustive description of the statutes or regulations which are applicable to the businesses of the Company and the Bank. Any change in applicable laws or regulations may have a material adverse effect on the business and prospects of the Company and the Bank.  Highlands Bankshares, Inc.  The Company is a bank holding company within the meaning of the BHCA and Chapter 13 of the Virginia Banking Act, as amended (the Virginia Banking Act). The activities of the Company also are governed by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999.  The Bank Holding Company Act.The BHCA is administered by the Federal Reserve Board, and the Company is required to file with the Federal Reserve Board an annual report and any additional information the Federal Reserve Board may require under the BHCA. The Federal Reserve Board also is authorized to examine the Company and its subsidiaries. The BHCA requires every bank holding company to obtain the approval of the Federal Reserve Board before (i) it or any of its subsidiaries (other than a bank) acquires substantially all the assets of any bank; (ii) it acquires ownership or control of any voting shares of any bank if after the acquisition it would own or control, directly or indirectly, more than 5% of the voting shares of the bank; or (iii) it merges or consolidates with any other bank holding company.  The BHCA and the Change in Bank Control Act, together with regulations promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board, require that, depending on the particular circumstances, either Federal Reserve Board approval must be obtained or notice must be furnished to the Federal Reserve Board and not disapproved prior to any person or company acquiring "control" of a bank holding company, such as the Company, subject to certain exemptions. Control is conclusively presumed to exist if an individual or company acquires 25% or more of any class of voting securities of the Company. Control is rebuttably presumed to exist if a person acquires 10% or more, but less than 25%, of any class of voting securities of the Company. The regulations provide a procedure for challenging the rebuttable control presumption.  Under the BHCA, a bank holding company is generally prohibited from engaging in, or acquiring direct or indirect control of more than 5% of the voting shares of any company engaged in non-banking activities, unless the Federal Reserve Board, by order or regulation, has found those activities to be so closely related to banking or managing or controlling banks as to be incident to banking. The Federal Reserve Board imposes certain capital requirements on the Company under the BHCA, including a minimum leverage ratio and a minimum ratio of "qualifying" capital to risk-weighted assets. Subject to its  8    capital requirements and certain other restrictions, the Company can borrow money to make a capital contribution to the Bank, and these loans may be repaid from dividends paid from the Bank to the Company (although the ability of the Bank to pay dividends are subject to regulatory restrictions). The Company can raise capital for contribution to the Bank by issuing securities without having to receive regulatory approval, subject to compliance with federal and state securities laws.  The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act.The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (the GLBA) permits significant combinations among different sectors of the financial services industry; allows for significant expansion of financial service activities by Bank holding companies and provides for a regulatory framework by various governmental authorities responsible for different financial activities; and offers certain financial privacy protections to consumers. The GLBA repealed affiliation and management interlock prohibitions of the Depression-era Glass-Steagall Act and, by amending the Bank Holding Company Act, the GLBA added new substantive provisions to the non-banking activities permitted under the BHCA with the creation of the financial holding company. The GLBA preempts most state laws that prohibit financial holding companies from engaging in insurance activities. The GLBA permits
affiliations between banks and securities firms within the same holding company structure, and the GLBA permits financial holding companies to directly engage in a broad range of securities and merchant banking activities. The Company has not elected to become a financial holding company.  The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act has led to important changes in the manner in which financial services are delivered in the United States. Bank holding companies and their subsidiary banks are able to offer a much broader array of financial services; however, there is greater competition in all sectors of the financial services market.  The Virginia Banking Act. All Virginia bank holding companies must register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (the Commission) under the Virginia Banking Act. A registered bank holding company must provide the Commission with information with respect to the financial condition, operations, management and inter-company relationships of the holding company and its subsidiaries. The Commission also may require such other information as is necessary to keep itself informed about whether the provisions of Virginia law and the regulations and orders issued under Virginia law by the Commission have been complied with, and may make examinations of any bank holding company and its subsidiaries. The Virginia Banking Act allows bank holding companies located in any state to acquire a Virginia bank or bank holding company if the Virginia bank or
bank holding company could acquire a bank holding company in their state and the Virginia bank or bank holding company to be acquired has been in existence and continuously operated for more than two years. The Virginia Banking Act permits bank holding companies from throughout the United States to enter the Virginia market, subject to federal and state approval.  Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the SOX Act) implements legislative reforms intended to address corporate and accounting fraud. In addition to the establishment of a new accounting oversight board that enforces auditing, quality control and independence standards and is funded by fees from all publicly traded companies, the law restricts provision of both auditing and consulting services by accounting firms. To ensure auditor independence, any non-audit services being provided to an audit client requires pre-approval by the issuers audit committee members and the SOX Act also restricts certain services that the audit firm may perform. In addition, the audit partners must be rotated. The SOX Act requires chief executive officers and chief financial officers, or their equivalent, to certify to the accuracy of periodic
reports filed with the SEC, subject to civil and criminal penalties if they knowingly or willfully violate this certification requirement. In addition, under the SOX Act, legal counsel is required to report evidence of a material violation of the securities laws or a breach of fiduciary duty by a company to its chief executive officer or its chief financial officer, and, if such officer does not  9    appropriately respond, to report such evidence to the audit committee or other similar committee of the board of directors or the board itself.  Highlands Union Bank  General.The Bank, as a state chartered member of the Federal Reserve, is subject to regulation and examination by the Virginia State Corporation Commission and the Federal Reserve Board. In addition, the Bank is subject to the rules and regulations of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Deposits in the Bank are insured by the FDIC up to a maximum amount (generally $100,000 per depositor, subject to aggregation rules). The Federal Reserve Board and the Virginia Bureau of Financial Institutions regulate or monitor all areas of the Banks operations, including security devices and procedures, adequacy of capitalization and loss reserves, loans, investments, borrowings, deposits, mergers, issuances of securities, payment of dividends, interest rates payable on deposits, interest rates or fees chargeable on loans, establishment of branches, corporate
reorganizations and maintenance of books and records. The Federal Reserve Board requires the Bank to maintain certain capital ratios. The Bank is required by the Federal Reserve Board to prepare quarterly reports on the Banks financial condition and to conduct an annual audit of its financial affairs in compliance with minimum standards and procedures prescribed by the Federal Reserve Board. The Bank also is required by the Federal Reserve Board to adopt internal control structures and procedures in order to safeguard assets and monitor and reduce risk exposure. While appropriate for safety and soundness of banks, these requirements impact banking overhead costs.  The Bank is organized as a Virginia-chartered banking corporation and is regulated and supervised by the Bureau of Financial Institutions (BFI) of the Virginia State Corporation Commission. In addition, as a federally insured bank, the Bank is regulated and supervised by the Federal Reserve Board, which serves as its primary federal regulator, and is subject to certain regulations promulgated by the FDIC. Under the provisions of federal law, federally insured banks are subject, with certain exceptions, to certain restrictions on extensions of credit to their affiliates, on investments in the stock or other securities of affiliates and on the taking of such stock or securities as collateral from any borrower. In addition, these banks are prohibited from engaging in certain tie-in arrangements in connection with any extension of credit or the providing of any property of service.  The Virginia State Corporation Commission and the Federal Reserve Board conduct regular examinations of the Bank reviewing the adequacy of the loan loss reserves, quality of the loans and investments, propriety of management practices, compliance with laws and regulations and other aspects of the bank's operations. In addition to these regular examinations, Virginia chartered banks must furnish to the Federal Reserve Board quarterly reports containing detailed financial statements and schedules.  Community Reinvestment Act.The Bank is subject to the provisions of the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 (the CRA), which requires the appropriate federal bank regulatory agency, in connection with its regular examination of a bank, to assess the bank's record in meeting the credit needs of the community served by the bank, including low and moderate-income neighborhoods. The focus of the regulations is on the volume and distribution of a bank's loans, with particular emphasis on lending activity in low and moderate-income areas and to low and moderate-income persons. The regulations place substantial importance on a bank's product delivery system, particularly branch locations. The regulations require banks, including the Bank to comply with significant data collection requirements. The regulatory agency's assessment of the bank's record is made
available to the public. Further, this assessment is required for any bank which has applied to, among other things, establish a new branch office that will accept deposits, relocate an existing office, or merge, consolidate with or acquire the assets or assume the liabilities of a federally regulated financial institution. Management expects that the Banks compliance with the CRA, as well as other fair lending laws, will face ongoing government  10    scrutiny and that costs associated with compliance will continue to increase. The Bank received "Satisfactory" CRA ratings in the last examination by bank regulators.  Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991. The difficulties encountered nationwide by financial institutions from the 1980s through 1991 prompted federal legislation designed to reform the banking industry and to promote the viability of the industry and of the deposit insurance system.  The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 (FDICIA) bolsters the deposit insurance fund, tightened bank and thrift regulation and trimmed the scope of federal deposit insurance as summarized below.  FDICIA requires each federal banking regulatory agency to prescribe, by regulation, standards for all insured depository institutions and depository institution holding companies relating to (i) internal controls, information systems and audit systems; (ii) loan documentation; (iii) credit underwriting; (iv) interest rate exposure; (v) asset growth; (vi) compensation, fees and benefits; and (vii) such other operational and managerial standards as the agency determines to be appropriate.  The compensation standards would prohibit employment contracts, compensation or benefit arrangements, stock option plans, fee arrangements or other compensatory arrangements that provide excessive compensation, fees or benefits or could lead to material financial loss.  In addition, each federal banking regulatory agency must prescribe by regulation standards specifying (i) a maximum ratio of classified
assets to capital; (ii) minimum earnings sufficient to absorb losses without impairing capital; (iii) to the extent feasible, a minimum ratio of market value to book value for publicly traded shares of depository institutions and depository institution holding companies; and (iv) such other standards relating to asset quality, earnings and valuation as the agency determines to be appropriate.  If an insured institution fails to meet any of the standards promulgated by regulation, then such institution will be required to submit a plan to its federal regulatory agency specifying the steps it will take to correct the deficiency.  Prompt corrective action measures adopted in FDICIA impose significant restrictions and requirements on depository institutions that fail to meet their minimum capital requirements.  Under Section 38 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (the FDI Act), the federal banking regulatory agencies have developed a classification system pursuant to which all depository institutions are placed into one of five categories based on their capital levels and other supervisory criteria:  well capitalized, adequately capitalized; undercapitalized; significantly undercapitalized; and critically undercapitalized.  The Bank met the requirements at December 31, 2007 to be classified as well capitalized.  This classification is determined solely for the purposes of applying the prompt corrective action regulations and may not constitute an accurate representation of the Banks overall financial condition.  If its principal federal regulator determines that an adequately capitalized institution is in an unsafe or unsound condition or is engaging in an unsafe or unsound practice, it may require the institution to submit a corrective action plan, restrict its asset growth and prohibit branching, new acquisitions and new lines of business.  An institutions principal federal regulator may deem it to be engaging in unsafe or unsound practices if it receives a less than satisfactory rating for asset quality, management, earnings or liquidity in its most recent examination.  Section 36 of FDICIA significantly affects financial institutions with more than $500 million in total assets. The Bank came under the provisions beginning in January 2004. Effective December 28, 2005, the FDIC lessened the requirements of Part 363 by raising the asset size threshold from $500 million to $1 billion for internal control assessments by management and external auditors. For institutions under $1 billion, management is no longer required to assess and report on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, the external auditors are no longer required to examine and attest to managements internal control assertions, and only a majority of the outside directors on the audit  11    committee must be independent of management.  Section 36 of FDICIA requires insured depository institutions with at least $500 million but less than $1 billion in total assets to file annual reports that must include the following:  1.
        Audited comparative annual financial statements.
 2.
        The independent public accountants report on the audited financial statements.
 3.
        A management report that contains a statement of managements responsibilities for preparing the financial statement, establishing and maintaining an adequate internal control structure over financial reporting and complying with the laws and regulations designed by the FDIC and appropriate banking regulators.
 4.
        An assessment by management of the institutions compliance with the designated laws and regulations during the year.
  These amendments provide relief for covered institutions of less than $1 billion in assets only for purposes of this section of Part 363. These covered institutions must continue to fully comply with the remaining provisions of Part 363 including the annual financial statement audit requirement. These amendments do not relieve public companies of their obligations to comply with the SOX Act and the SECs rules on internal control reporting and audit committee independence.  The Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994(the Interstate Act) allows bank holding companies to acquire banks in any state, without regard to state law, except that if the state has a minimum requirement for the amount of time a bank must be in existence, that law must be preserved. Under the Virginia Banking Act, a Virginia bank or all of the subsidiaries of Virginia holding companies sought to be acquired must have been in continuous operation for more than two years before the date of such proposed acquisition. The Interstate Act also permits banks to acquire out-of-state branches through interstate mergers, if the state has not opted out of interstate branching. De novo branching, where an out-of-state bank holding company sets up a new branch in another state, requires a state's specific approval. An acquisition or merger is
not permitted under the Interstate Act if the bank, including its insured depository affiliates, will control more than 10% of the total amount of deposits of insured depository institutions in the United States, or will control 30% or more of the total amount of deposits of insured depository institutions in any state.  Virginia has, by statute, elected to opt-in fully to interstate branching under the Interstate Act. Under the Virginia statute, Virginia state banks may, with the approval of the Virginia State Corporation Commission, establish and maintain a de novo branch or acquire one or more branches in a state other than Virginia, either separately or as part of a merger. Procedures also are established to allow out-of-state domiciled banks to establish or acquire branches in Virginia, provided the "home" state of the bank permits Virginia banks to establish or acquire branches within its borders. The activities of these branches are subject to the same laws as Virginia domiciled banks, unless such activities are prohibited by the law of the state where the bank is organized. The Virginia State Corporation Commission has the authority to examine and supervise out-of-state state banks to ensure that
the branch is operating in a safe and sound manner and in compliance with the laws of Virginia. The Virginia statute authorizes the Bureau of Financial Institutions to enter into cooperative agreements with other state and federal regulators for the examination and supervision of out-of-state banks with Virginia operations, or Virginia domiciled banks with operations in other states. Likewise, national banks, with the approval of the OCC, may branch into and out of the state of Virginia. Any Virginia branch of an out-of-state state chartered bank is subject to Virginia law (enforced by the Virginia Bureau of Financial Institutions) with respect to intrastate branching, consumer protection, fair lending and community reinvestment as if it were a branch of a Virginia bank, unless preempted by federal law.  12    Deposit Insurance.The Banks deposits are insured up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) of the FDIC. The DIF was created by the merger of the Bank Insurance Fund (BIF) and Savings Association Insurance Fund (SAIF) provided for in the Federal Deposit Insurance Reform Act of 2005 (FDIRA), as enacted in February 2006. This legislation also increased coverage for retirement accounts to $250,000 and indexed the insurance levels for inflation, among other changes. In addition, as a result of the FDIRA, the FDIC has adopted a revised, risk-based assessment system to determine assessment rates to be paid by member institutions, such as the Bank.  Under this revised assessment system, risk is defined and measured using an institutions supervisory ratings, combined with certain other risk measures, including certain financial ratios and
long-term debt issuer ratings. The annual risk based assessment rates for 2007 range from $0.05 to $0.43 per $100 of insured deposits. The FDIRA also provided for a one-time assessment credit, to be allocated among member institutions. The FDIC one-time assessment credit may be used to offset future deposit insurance assessments beginning in 2007.  Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 (the GLBA) allows banks, with primary regulator approval, to acquire financial subsidiaries to engage in any activity that is financial in nature or incidental to a financial activity, as defined in the Bank Holding Act, except (i) insurance underwriting, (ii) merchant or insurance portfolio investments, and (iii) real estate development or investment. Well-capitalized banks are also given the authority to engage in municipal bond underwriting.  To establish or acquire a financial subsidiary, a bank must be well-managed, and the consolidated assets of its financial subsidiary must not exceed the lesser of 45% of the consolidated total assets of the bank or $50 billion. The relationship between a bank and a financial subsidiary are subject to a variety of supervisory enhancements from regulators.  USA Patriot Act. The USA Patriot Act facilitates the sharing of information among government entities and financial institutions to combat terrorism and money laundering. The USA Patriot Act creates an obligation on banks to report customer activities that may involve terrorist activities or money laundering.  Government Policies. The operations of the Bank are affected not only by general economic conditions, but also by the policies of various regulatory authorities. In particular, the Federal Reserve Board regulates money and credit and interest rates in order to influence general economic conditions. These policies have a significant influence on overall growth and distribution of loans, investments and deposits and affect interest rates charged on loans or paid for time and savings deposits. Federal Reserve Board monetary policies have had a significant effect on the operating results of commercial banks in the past and are expected to continue to do so in the future.  Limits on Dividends and Other Payments. As a state member bank subject to the regulations of the Federal Reserve Board, the Bank must obtain the approval of the Federal Reserve Board for any dividend if the total of all dividends declared in any calendar year would exceed the total of its net profits, as defined by the Federal Reserve Board, for that year, combined with its retained net profits for the preceding two years. In addition, a state member bank may not pay a dividend in an amount greater than its undivided profits then on hand after deducting its losses and bad debts. For this purpose, bad debts are generally defined to include the principal amount of loans which are in arrears with respect to interest by six months or more, unless such loans are fully secured and in the process of collection. Moreover, for purposes of this limitation, a state member
bank is not permitted to add the balance in its allowance for loan losses account to its undivided profits then on hand; however, it may net the sum of its bad debts as so defined against the balance in its allowance for loan losses account and deduct from undivided profits only bad debts as so defined in excess of that account.  13    In addition, the Federal Reserve Board is authorized to determine, under certain circumstances relating to the financial condition of a state member bank, that the payment of dividends would be an unsafe or unsound practice and to prohibit payment thereof. The payment of dividends that depletes a bank's capital base could be deemed to constitute such an unsafe or unsound practice. The Federal Reserve Board has indicated that banking organizations should generally pay dividends only out of current operating earnings.  Virginia law also imposes restrictions on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends. A Virginia state bank is permitted to declare a dividend out of its "net undivided profits", after providing for all expenses, losses, interest and taxes accrued or due by the bank. In addition, a deficit in capital originally paid in must be restored to its initial level, and no dividend can be paid which could impair the Bank's paid in capital. The Bureau of Financial Institutions further has authority to limit the payment of dividends by a Virginia bank if it determines the limitation is in the public interest and is necessary to ensure the bank's financial soundness.  The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 (FDICIA) provides that no insured depository institution may make any capital distribution (which would include a cash dividend) if, after making the distribution, the institution would not satisfy one or more of its minimum capital requirements.  Capital Requirements. The Federal Reserve Board has adopted risk-based capital guidelines which are applicable to the Company and the Bank. The Federal Reserve Board guidelines redefine the components of capital, categorize assets into different risk classes and include certain off-balance sheet items in the calculation of risk-weighted assets. The minimum ratio of qualified total capital to risk-weighted assets (including certain off-balance sheet items, such as standby letters of credit) is 8.0%. At least half of the total capital must be comprised of Tier 1 capital for a minimum ratio of Tier 1 Capital to risk-weighted assets of 4.0%. The remainder may consist of a limited amount of subordinated debt, other preferred stock, certain other instruments and a limited amount of loan and lease loss reserves.  In addition, the Federal Reserve Board has established minimum leverage ratio (Tier 1 capital to total average assets less intangibles) guidelines that are applicable to the Company and the Bank. These guidelines provide for a minimum ratio of 4.0% for banks that meet certain specified criteria, including that they have the highest regulatory CAMELS rating and are not anticipating or experiencing significant growth and have well-diversified risk. All other banks will be required to maintain an additional cushion of at least 100 to 200 basis points, based upon their particular circumstances and risk profiles. The guidelines also provide that banks experiencing internal growth or making acquisitions will be expected to maintain strong capital positions substantially above the minimum supervisory levels, without significant reliance on intangible assets.  Other Legislative and Regulatory Concerns  Other legislative and regulatory proposals regarding changes in banking and the regulation of banks, thrifts and other financial institutions are periodically considered by the executive branch of the federal government, Congress and various state governments, including Virginia. New proposals could significantly change the regulation of banks and the financial services industry. It cannot be predicted what might be proposed or adopted or how these proposals would affect the Company.  Other Business Concerns  The banking industry is particularly sensitive to interest rate fluctuations, as the spread between the rates which must be paid on deposits and those which may be charged on loans is an important  14    component of profit. In addition, the interest which can be earned on a bank's invested funds has a significant effect on profits. Rising interest rates typically reduce the demand for new loans, particularly the real estate loans which represent a significant portion of the Banks loan demand.  Registrant's Organization and Employment  The Company, the Bank, HCTI, HUFS and HUIS are organized in a holding company/subsidiary structure. As of December 31, 2007, the Company had no employees, except for officers, and it conducted substantially all of its operations through its subsidiaries. All cash compensation paid to the Companys officers was paid by the subsidiary bank, including fees paid to its directors. In previous years, stock based compensation, through the form of stock options, is paid/granted through the Company. During 2007, compensation paid to HUFS officers and employees was paid through the Bank. At December 31, 2007, the Bank employed 239 full time equivalent employees at its main office, operations center and branch offices. The Company, HCTI, HUFS and HUIS had no employees at this time.  The Companys relationship with its employees is considered to be good. Employment has remained very stable over the last several years with very little turnover. There are no employment contracts in existence for any employee or officer.  Company Website  The Bank maintains a website atwww.hubank.com. The Company makes available through its website its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and all amendments to those reports, free of charge, as soon as reasonably practicable after the material is electronically filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  Item 1A. Risk Factors  Changes in interest rates could have an adverse effect on our income.  If market interest rates rise, our net interest income can be negatively affected in the short term.   The direction and speed of interest rate changes affect our net interest margin and net interest income. In the short term, rising interest rates can negatively affect our net interest income, because our interest-bearing liabilities (generally deposits) reprice sooner than our interest-earning assets (generally loans).  Our failure to maintain adequate capital could have adverse effects on our financial condition.  Highlands Bankshares, Inc. and its bank subsidiary are subject to regulatory capital adequacy guidelines. If the Bank fails to meet capital adequacy guidelines, it could have a material effect on our financial condition and could subject us to a variety of enforcement actions, as well as impose, restrictions on our business. In addition, it could lead to a decline in the confidence that our customers have in us and a reduction in the demand for our products and services. If we are not in compliance with governmental regulation, we can be subject to fines, penalties or restrictions of our business.  Our profitability and the value of your investment may suffer because of rapid and unpredictable changes in the highly regulated environment in which we operate.  Our businesses are subject to stringent regulation by federal and state governmental and regulatory agencies and self-regulatory organizations. In addition, our customers have a number of  15    complex confidentiality and fiduciary requirements. We have established policies, procedures and systems that are designed to comply with these regulatory and operational risk requirements. However, as a financial services institution, we face complexity and costs related to our compliance efforts. We also face the potential for loss resulting from failed or inadequate internal processes and from external events, which could have a material impact on our results of operations. Adverse publicity and damage to our reputation from the failure or perceived failure to comply with legal, regulatory or capital requirements could affect our ability to attract or maintain customers or maintain access to capital markets, or could result in enforcement actions, fines, penalties and lawsuits.  If there is a significant economic downturn in our region, our credit risk could be adversely affected and result in loss.  Our business is subject to various lending and other economic risks that could adversely impact our results of operations and financial condition.  We do business in a small geographic area, and a large percentage of our loans are made in our market area. If the region suffers a significant or prolonged period of economic downturn, there is a greater likelihood that more of our customers could become delinquent on their loans or other obligations which could adversely affect our performance. If more competitors come into our market area, our business could suffer.  Our future success is dependent on our ability to compete effectively in the highly competitive banking industry  Financial services in our market area are highly competitive, with a number of commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies and stockbrokers seeking to do business with our customers.  Inadequate disaster recovery plans could significantly impact our operations.  If the disaster recovery plans that we have in place are not adequate to continue our operations in the event of a disaster, the business disruption can adversely impact our operations. Natural or man-made disasters, such as fires, storms, terrorist or military actions could cause damage to our physical facilities, or could cause delays or disruptions to operational functions, including information processing or check settlements. In addition, our vendors could suffer from such events. Should these events affect us or the vendors with whom we do business, our results of operations could be negatively impacted.  An interruption or breach of our information systems may result in a loss of customers.  We rely heavily on communications and information systems to conduct our business. In addition, we rely on third parties to provide key components of our infrastructure, including internet connections and network access. Any disruption in service of these key components could adversely affect our ability to deliver products and services to our customers and otherwise to conduct our operations. Furthermore, any security breach of our information systems or data, whether managed by us or by third parties, could harm our reputation or cause a decrease in the number of customers that choose to do business with us.  Our liquidity is dependent on dividends from the Bank.  The Banks ability to pay dividends to the Company is limited by various statutes and regulations. In the event the Bank was unable to pay dividends to the Company, dividends on our common stock which we pay to shareholders could be adversely affected. Failure to pay dividends or a reduction in the dividend rate could have a material adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.  16     Our performance depends on attracting and retaining key employees and skilled personnel to operate our business effectively.  There are a limited number of qualified personnel in the markets we serve, so our success depends in part on the continued services of many of our current management and other key employees. Failure to maintain our key officers and employees and maintain adequate staffing of qualified personnel could adversely impact our operations and ability to compete.  17    Item 1B.  Unresolved Staff Comments  Not Applicable  Item 2. Properties  The Companys and the Banks headquarters are located at 340 W. Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia. In addition to the Bank's Main Office location, the Bank owns twelve branch offices: one in the Town of Abingdon, Virginia; one in Washington County, Virginia; two in the City of Bristol, Virginia; one in the Town of Glade Spring, Virginia; one in the Town of Marion, Virginia; one in the City of Bristol, Tennessee; one in the Town of Rogersville, Tennessee; one in the Town of Boone, North Carolina; one in the Town of Banner Elk, North Carolina; one in the City of Sevierville, Tennessee; and one in the City of Knoxville, Tennessee. The Bank owns the land and buildings of all of these branch offices as well as the main office for the Company and Bank.  The Bank also owns the land and building used for its Collections, Human Resources, Customer Call Center and IRA Operations in Abingdon, Virginia. The Bank owns a vacant piece of land in Bristol, Tennessee that is being held for a potential future branch site. The Bank leases office space in Abingdon, Virginia for operational purposes, leases office space in West Jefferson, North Carolina for a loan production office and leases office space in Sevierville, Tennessee that was previously used as a loan production office. The Bank now subleases this space.  The Company owns the land and buildings used as the Banks Operations Center and Technology House in Abingdon, Virginia. The Company owns the land and vacant building on property adjacent to the Companys Operations Center in Abingdon, Virginia. The Company owns vacant land adjacent to its Main Branch Office in Abingdon, Virginia. The Company owns approximately 14 acres of vacant land in Abingdon, Virginia for future possible development of a corporate headquarters. The Company also owns an additional lot in Sevierville, Tennessee and an additional lot in Boone, North Carolina (both approximately 1 acre) to for future branching.  All of the existing properties are in good operating condition and are adequate for the Companys present and anticipated future needs.  The Bank owns all its computer and data processing hardware and is a licensee of the software it utilizes.  Item 3.  Legal Proceedings  The Company is not currently involved in any pending legal proceedings, other than routine litigation incidental to the Banks banking business. These proceedings are not material to the Company or the Bank.  Item 4.  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders  None.   18    Part II  Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity,  Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities  Common Stock Information and Dividend  Trades in the Companys common stock are reported on the Over-The-Counter Bulletin Board (OTCBB) and in the Pinksheets by at least five broker dealers under the symbol HBKA.OB. In addition, the Company maintains a list of individuals who are interested in purchasing its common stock and connects these people with shareholders who are interested in selling their stock. These parties negotiate the per share price independent of the Company. The stock transfer agent of the Company attempts to keep a record of stock sales by asking the parties about the trade price per share.  Please refer to the table below entitled Common Stock Performance for a summary of sales prices known to the Company for each of the four quarters of 2007 and 2006.  Common Stock Performance  December 31, 2007High
        Low
        Quarterly Average
        Dividends per ShareFirst Quarter
        $16.50
        $15.35
        $16.41
        $        -Second Quarter
        $16.50
        $15.10
        $16.29
        $   0.20Third Quarter
        $17.00
        $14.50
        $16.32
        $        -Fourth Quarter
        $17.00
        $13.10
        $16.74
        $        -
  Common Stock Performance  December 31, 2006High
        Low
        Quarterly Average
        Dividends per ShareFirst Quarter
        $16.84
        $15.85
        $15.99
        $        -Second Quarter
        $16.50
        $15.85
        $16.38
        $   0.15Third Quarter
        $16.75
        $14.75
        $16.36
        $        -Fourth Quarter
        $20.00
        $15.75
        $16.51
        $        -
   The Company historically has paid cash dividends on an annual basis.  The final determination of the timing, amount and payment of dividends on the Common Stock is at the discretion of the Companys Board of Directors and will depend upon the earnings of the Company and its subsidiaries, principally the Bank, the financial condition of the Company and other factors, including general economic conditions and applicable governmental regulations and policies as discussed in Item 1., Business  Certain Regulatory Considerations, above.  As of March 12, 2008, the Company had approximately 1,457 shareholders of record.  19    Issuer Repurchases of Equity Securities  The following table sets forth information with respect to repurchases of common stock that the Company made during the three months ended December 31, 2007:  Period
        Total Number of Shares Purchased
        Average Price Paid per Share
        Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Programs (1)
        Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Program
(in thousands)Oct. 1, 2007  Oct. 31, 2007
        20,999
        $16.75
        20,999
        59,856Nov. 1, 2007  Nov 30, 2007
        9,918
        $17.00
        9,918
        49,938Dec. 1, 2007  Dec. 31, 2007
        16,784
        $17.00
        16,784
        33,154Total
        47,701
        $16.89
        47,701
        33,154
  (1)           On December 13, 2006, the Companys board of directors approved a stock repurchase program to purchase over the next 12 months up to 151,515 shares of its outstanding common stock (the Program). The Company has allocated $2.5 million to the Program and anticipates funding for the Program to come from available corporate funds.  Item 6. Selected Financial Data  The Company and Subsidiaries Selected Consolidated Financial Data: (Refer to the Annual Report of Shareholders for the complete set of the Companys financial statements)  (Amounts in thousands, except per share data) Years Ended December 31,2007
        2006
        2005
        2004
        2003Interest income
        $  40,345
        $  37,012
        $  32,189
        $  29,460
        $  29,463Interest expense
        21,441
        18,491
        14,490
        12,162
        12,877Net interest income
        18,904
        18,521
        17,699
        17,298
        16,586Selected Income
Statement Data
        Provision for loan
losses
        685
        1,147
        1,155
        1,300
        2,053Non-interest income
        4,613
        4,828
        4,850
        4,572
        4,652Non-interest expense
        17,120
        15,886
        14,998
        14,871
        13,470Income taxes
        811
        1,108
        1,363
        1,042
        1,195Net income
        4,901
        5,208
        5,033
        4,657
        4,520Basic net income
        $   0.95
        $     1.00
        $     0.95
        $     0.88
        $     0.85Diluted net income
        0.94
        0.98
        0.94
        0.87
        0.85*Per share data
        Cash dividends
declared
        .20
        .15
        0.075
        0.06
        0.05Book value per share
        9.14
        8.81
        7.98
        7.37
        6.67Selected Balance Sheet Data at End of Year
        Loans, net
        $446,661
        $433,034
        $407,274
        $387,133
        $373,534Total securities
        136,867
        142,953
        140,284
        133,203
        124,964Total assets
        660,794
        632,649
        599,341
        567,060
        543,416Total deposits
        512,747
        500,109
        486,908
        468,657
        450,009Stockholders equity
        46,711
        45,707
        42,132
        39,299
        35,434
   20     Selected Balance Sheet Daily Averages
        Loans, net
        $436,758
        $418,100
        $396,530
        $381,178
        $355,593Total securities
        143,989
        143,034
        130,367
        129,611
        115,313Total assets
        647,936
        615,354
        584,500
        556,995
        517,497Total deposits
        507,862
        490,288
        479,808
        459,749
        439,330Stockholders equity
        46,213
        43,358
        40,290
        38,895
        36,886Return on average assets
        0.76%
        0.85%
        0.86%
        0.83%
        0.87%Selected Ratios
        Return on average equity
        10.61%
        12.01%
        12.43%
        12.55%
        13.27%Dividend payout ratio
        21.06%
        15.11%
        7.94%
        6.87%
        5.86%Average equity to average assets
        7.13%
        7.05%
        6.89%
        6.64%
        6.59%
  * Data adjusted for 2:1 split effective September 9, 2005.  Item 7.  Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation  The purpose of this discussion is to provide information about the financial condition and results of operations of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries and other information included in this report. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Companys Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.  Caution About Forward-Looking Statements  This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company's actual results could differ materially form those set forth in the forward-looking statements.  Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks including, but not limited to, the following factors:  
        The ability to successfully manage the Companys growth or implement its growth strategies if it is unable to identify attractive markets, locations or opportunities to expand in the future;
 
        The ability to continue to attract low cost core deposits to fund asset growth;
 
        Maintaining capital levels adequate to support the Companys growth;
 
        Maintaining cost controls and asset qualities as the Company opens or acquires new branches;
 
        Reliance on the Companys management team, including its ability to attract and retain key personnel;
 
        The successful management of interest rate risk;
 
        Changes in general economic and business conditions in the Companys market area;
 
        Further deterioration in the housing market;
 
        Continued problems related to the national credit crisis;
 
        Changes in interest rates and interest rate policies;
  21    
        Risks inherent in making loans such as repayment risks and fluctuating collateral values;
 
        Competition with other banks and financial institutions, and companies outside of the banking industry, including those companies that have substantially greater access to capital and other resources;
 
        Demand, development and acceptance of new products and services;
 
        Problems with technology utilized by the Company;
 
        Changing trends in customer profiles and behavior; and
 
        Changes in banking and other laws and regulations applicable to the Company.
  Overview  The Company is a bank holding company located in southwest Virginia. It conducts commercial banking operations primarily through its full service banking subsidiary, Highlands Union Bank (the Bank). The Bank has two wholly-owned subsidiaries, Highlands Union Financial Services, Inc. and Highlands Union Insurance Services, Inc. These two subsidiaries offer investment and insurance products. Revenues and net income derived from these two sources are not significant at this time. Management characterizes the Bank as a "community bank".  The Bank offers general retail and commercial banking services to individuals, businesses and local government units. These products and services include accepting deposits in the form of checking accounts, money market deposit accounts, interest-bearing demand deposit accounts, savings accounts and time deposits; making real estate, commercial, revolving, consumer, credit card and agricultural loans; offering letters of credit; providing other consumer financial services, such as automatic funds transfer, collections, night depository, safe deposit, travelers checks and savings bond sales; and providing other miscellaneous services normally offered by commercial banks. The Bank makes loans in all major loan categories, including commercial, commercial and residential real estate, construction and consumer loans.  The Company makes money primarily by earning an interest rate spread between the interest rates it earns on loans and securities and interest rates it pays on deposits and other borrowed money. The Company also earns money through fees, service charges and other non-interest income.  Critical Accounting Policies  General  The financial condition and results of operations presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements, accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and managements discussion and analysis are, to a large degree, dependent upon the accounting policies of the Company.  The selection and application of these accounting policies involve judgments, estimates, and uncertainties that are susceptible to change.  Presented below is a discussion of the Accounting Policy that management believes is important to the understanding of the Companys financial condition and results of operations.  This critical accounting policy requires managements most difficult, subjective and complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain.  In the event that different assumptions or conditions were to prevail, and depending upon the severity of such changes, the possibility of materially different financial condition or results of operations is a reasonable likelihood.  See also Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.  22     Allowance for Loan Losses  The Company monitors and maintains an allowance for loan losses to absorb the estimate of probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio.  The allowance for loan losses is based on managements judgment and analysis of current and historical loss experience, risk characteristics of the loan portfolio, concentrations of credit and asset quality, as well as other internal and external factors, such as general economic conditions. The Company recognizes the inherent imprecision in estimates of losses due to various uncertainties, and variability related to the factors used. If different assumptions or conditions were to prevail and it is determined that the allowance is not adequate to absorb the new estimate of probable losses, an additional provision for loan losses would be made, which amount may be material to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  Performance Summary  The following table shows the Companys key performance ratios for the years ended December 31, 2007 and  2006:  12/31/07
        
        12/31/06Return on Average Assets
        0.76%
        
        0.85%Return on Average Equity
        10.61%
        
        12.01%Basic Earnings Per Share
        $0.95
        
        $1.00Fully Diluted Earnings Per Share
        $0.94
        
        $0.98Net Interest Margin (1)
        3.43%
        
        3.50%(1) Net Interest Margin - Year-to-date tax equivalent net interest income divided by year-to-date average earning assets.
  Growth  The following table shows the Companys key growth indicators for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006:  (dollar amounts in thousands)  12/31/07
        
        12/31/06Securities
        $131,132
        
        $137,984Loans, net
        $446,661
        
        $433,034Deposits
        $512,747
        
        $500,109Assets
        $660,794
        
        $632,649
   23    Asset Quality  The following table shows the Companys key asset quality indicators for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006:  (dollar amounts in thousands)12/31/07
        
        12/31/06Non- accrual loans
        $7,849
        
        $2,696Loans past due over 90 days
        268
        
        704Other real estate owned
        617
        
        1,924Allowance for loan losses to total loans
        1.03%
        
        1.04%Net charge-off ratio
        0.14%
        
        0.22%
  For further information see the discussion under "Provision and Allowances for Loan Losses".  Results of Operations  Net Interest Income (dollar amounts in thousands)  2007 versus 2006  Net interest income for 2007 was $18,904 or an increase of $383 over 2006. During 2007 interest income increased $3,333. This was a result of both existing interest earning assets re-pricing at higher rates and new loans made and securities purchased at higher rates. Interest-bearing liabilities also re-priced upward, causing an increase in interest expense of $2,950. During the latter part of 2007, the Federal Reserve Board began lowering interest rates due to recessionary fears and the current economic weaknesses. The net result of these events was a slight decrease in the Companys net interest margin to 3.43% in 2007 from 3.50% in 2006. The Company has also made a concerted effort to lock in longer term funding by increasing its long term funding from the Federal Home Loan Bank. During 2007, the Company increased its net funding from the FHLB by $15,000. The continued competition
for deposits in the Companys market areas has not only slowed deposit growth but has also significantly increased the weighted yields paid for such deposits. The current trend is the result of short-term interest rates rising after an unusually long period of low interest rates. The flat and/or slightly inverted yield curve during the majority of 2007 has also impacted the Companys ability to attract longer term deposits. The tax equivalent yield on earning assets for 2007 was 7.03%, increasing 30 basis points during the year. During the same period, the yield on interest bearing liabilities was 4.16%, which was an increase of increase of 37 basis points. The Company will continue to look for alternative funding sources in an effort to reduce its cost of funds.  Analysis of Net Interest Earnings  The following table shows the major categories of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, the interest earned or paid, the average yield or rate on the average balance outstanding, net interest income and net yield on average interest-earning assets and average interest spread for the years indicated.  24     Year Ended December 31,2007
        2006(Dollars in Thousands)Average
Balance
        Interest Income/ Expense
        Yield/
Rate
        Average
Balance
        Interest Income/ Expense
        Yield/
RateASSETSInterest earning assets (taxable-equivalent basis):Loans (net of unearned discount )(1)
        $441,308
        $ 32,832
        7.44%
        $422,505
        $ 30,319
        7.18%Securities (2)(3)
        148,500
        7,175
        5.89
        146,390
        6,540
        5.48Federal funds sold
        6,521
        338
        5.18
        3,049
        153
        5.02Total interest-earning assets
        $596,329
        $  40,345
        7.03%
        $571,945
        $  37,012
        6.73%LIABILITIESInterest bearing liabilities:Interest bearing deposits
        $426,116
        $ 16,886
        3.96%
        $410,749
        $ 14,429
        3.51%Other interest bearing liabilities
        88,694
        4,555
        5.14
        77,771
        4,062
        5.22Total interest-bearing liabilities
        $514,810
        $  21,441
        4.16%
        $488,520
        $  18,491
        3.79%Net interest income
        
        $ 18,904
        
        
        $ 18,521Net margin on interest earning assets on a
tax equivalent basis
        
        
        3.43%
        
        
        3.50%Average interest spread
        
        
        2.87%
        
        
        2.94%(1)   For the purposes of these computations, non-accruing loans are included in the daily average loan amounts outstanding.(2)   Tax equivalent adjustments (using 34% federal tax rates) have been made in calculating yields on tax-free investments. Virginia banks are exempt from state income tax.(3)   The yield on securities classified as available for sale is computed based on the average balance of the historical amortized cost balance without the effects of the fair value adjustment required by Financial Accounting Standard 115.
   Analysis of Changes in Interest Income and Interest Expense  The Company's primary source of revenue is net interest income, which is the difference between the interest and fees earned on loans and investments and the interest paid on deposits and other funds. The Company's net interest income is affected by changes in the amount and mix of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and by changes in yields earned on interest-earning assets and rates paid on interest-bearing liabilities. The following table sets forth, for the years indicated, a summary of the changes in interest income and interest expense resulting from changes in average asset and liability balances (volume) and changes in average interest rates (rate). Increase/(Decrease) Due to Volume and Rate  2007 Compared to 2006Increase (Decrease) in
        Increase (decrease) due to change in volume
        Increase (decrease) due to change in rate
        Net increase
(decrease)(Dollars in Thousands)INTEREST INCOME
Securities
        $        125
        $        510
        $        635Federal funds sold
        179
        6
        185Loans
        1,399
        1,114
        2,513Total Income Change
        $     1,703
        $     1,630
        $     3,333INTEREST EXPENSE
Savings and time deposits
        $        609
        $     1,848
        $     2,457Other interest-bearing liabilities
        561
        (68)
        493Total Expense Change
        $     1,170
        $     1,780
        $     2,950Increase (Decrease) in Net Interest Income
        $        533
        $      (151)
        $        383
   25    Non-interest Income (dollar amounts in thousands)  2007 versus 2006  Non-interest income for 2007 was $4,613.  Service charges on deposit accounts (primarily NSF fees) decreased $436 as compared to 2006. The number of checks processed continues to decline as the number of electronic transactions increases.  Merchant and debit card fee income increased by $139 over 2006 due to increases in merchant fees and visa check card interchange fees. The use of debit cards continued to increase significantly over the prior period.  Income received during 2007 from the Companys investment in Virginia Title Company, LLC totaled $162. During 2007, the Bank purchased an additional $2.5 million in Bank Owned Life Insurance covering selected officers. Earnings related to its investment in Bank Owned Life Insurance totaled $483 or an increase of $112 as compared to 2006.  Net securities gains totaled $80 compared to $99 in 2006.  Non-interest Expense (dollar amounts in thousands)  2007 versus 2006  Non-interest expense is comprised of salaries and employee benefit costs, occupancy expenses, furniture and equipment expenses and other operating expenses. Non-interest expense for 2007 was $17,120, an increase of $1,234 over 2006. The increase is primarily attributable to the continued growth of the Company that was achieved during 2007.  Salaries and employee benefits increased by 8.94% or $811 primarily due to the Company opening a new branch in Knoxville, TN during 2007 as well as a full year of personnel cost for its new branch opened in Sevierville, TN in August of 2006.  Recent technology enhancements however have allowed the bank to leverage its existing personnel base to help minimize overall increases in personnel costs.  Income Taxes (dollar amounts in thousands)  2007 vs. 2006  Income tax expense for 2007 decreased $297 when compared to 2006 primarily due to the decrease in pretax income and the increase in tax exempt income.  Interest income from tax exempt municipal bonds and earnings related to the Companys investment in BOLI are the primary assets with tax exempt income.   26    Provision and Allowance for Loan Losses (dollar amounts in thousands)  2007 vs. 2006  The adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is based on management's judgment and analysis of current and historical loss experience, risk characteristics of the loan portfolio, concentrations of credit and asset quality, as well as other internal and external factors, such as general economic conditions.  The internal credit review department performs pre-credit analyses of large credits and also conducts credit review activities that provide management with an early warning of asset quality deterioration. The internal credit review department also prepares regular analyses of the adequacy of the allowance for loans losses. These analyses include calculations based upon a mathematical formula that considers identified potential losses on specific loans and makes pool allocations for historical losses for various loan types. The Company uses a rolling three year history by loan category
in determining pool allocation factors. In addition, an amount is allocated based upon such factors as changing trends in the loan mix, the effects of changes in business conditions and market area, unemployment trends, the effects of any changes in loan policies, and the effects of competition and regulatory factors on the loan portfolio.  The internal credit review department as well as management has determined that the Company's allowance for loan losses is sufficient. Loans past due ninety days or more and still accruing were $268 at December 31, 2007, compared to $704 at December 31, 2006. Net charge-offs to total loans decreased from 0.22% in 2006 to 0.14% in 2007. This was in large part due to the changes implemented in 2004 related to credit scoring, underwriting, analysis and review.  The following table presents the Companys loan loss experience for the past five years:  Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in Thousands)2007
        2006
        2005
        2004
        2003Allowance for loan losses at beginning of year
        $       4,565
        $       4,359
        $       4,181
        $      4,274
        $      3,877Loans charged off:Commercial
        47
        206
        131
        219
        299Real Estate  mortgage
        99
        58
        205
        192
        270Consumer
        444
        539
        791
        1,089
        1,211Other
        242
        277
        0
        0
        0Total
        $          832
        $       1,080
        $       1,127
        $      1,500
        $      1,780Recoveries of loans previously charged off:Commercial
        $            36
        $            14
        $            17
        $             2
        $             8Real Estate  mortgage
        54
        10
        10
        1
        0Consumer
        121
        115
        123
        104
        116Other
        1
        0
        0
        0
        0Total
        $         212
        $         139
        $         150
        $         107
        $         124Net loans charged off
        $         620
        $         941
        $         977
        $      1,393
        $      1,656Provision for loan losses
        685
        1,147
        1,155
        1,300
        2,053Allowance for loan losses end of year
        $      4,630
        $      4,565
        $      4,359
        $      4,181
        $      4,274Average total loans (net of unearned income)
        $  441,308
        $  422,525
        $  400,759
        $  385,434
        $  359,187Total loans (net of unearned income) at year-end
        $  451,291
        $  437,599
        $  411,633
        $  391,314
        $  377,808Ratio of net charge-offs to average loans
        0.140%
        0.223%
        0.244%
        0.361%
        0.461%Ratio of provision for loan losses to average loan
        0.155%
        0.271%
        0.288%
        0.337%
        0.572%Ratio of provision for loan losses to net charge-off
        110.484%
        121.892%
        118.219%
        123.973%
        123.973%Allowance for loan losses to year-end loans
        1.026%
        1.043%
        1.059%
        1.068%
        1.131%
   27    Non-performing loans (dollar amounts in thousands)  The loan portfolio of the Bank is reviewed regularly by senior officers to evaluate loan performance. The frequency of the review is based on a rating of credit worthiness of the borrower utilizing various factors such as net worth, credit history and customer relationship. The evaluations emphasize different factors depending upon the type of loan involved. Commercial and real estate loans are reviewed on the basis of projections of cash flow and estimated net realizable value through an evaluation of collateral and the financial strength of the borrower. Installment loans are evaluated largely on the basis of delinquency data because of the large number of such loans and relatively small size of each individual loan.  Managements review of commercial and other loans may result in a determination that a loan should be placed on a non-accrual of interest basis. It is the policy of the Bank to discontinue the accrual of interest on any loan on which full repayment of principal and / or interest is doubtful. Subsequent collection of interest is recognized as income on a cash basis upon receipt. Placing a loan on non-accrual status for the purpose of income recognition is not in itself a reliable indication of potential loss of principal. Other factors, such as the value of the collateral securing the loan and the financial condition of the borrower, serve as more reliable indications of potential loss of principal. The policy of the Bank is that non-performing loans consist of loans accounted for on a non-accrual basis and loans which are contractually past due 90 days or more in regards to interest and/or principal payments. The following table presents non-performing assets at December 31.  2007
        2006
        2005
        2004
        2003(Amounts in thousands)Non-performing loans
        $     8,117
        $     3,400
        $     4,201
        $     4,653
        $      4,521Non-accrual loans
        $     7,849
        $     2,696
        $     2,920
        $     3,902
        $      3,723Loans past-due 90 days and more and still accruing
        $        268
        $        704
        $     1,281
        $        661
        $        802Interest income lost on non-accruing loans
        $        333
        $        234
        $        227
        $        237
        $        235
  The majority of the increase in non-performing assets during 2007 from the prior year was related to a $4.07 million commercial real estate loan that was placed in non-accrual status during the third quarter of 2007. This customer is currently being processed for collections on real estate and other collateral. Management believes that the underlying value of the collateral is sufficient to cover the balance of this loan. However, in the event the collateral value is underestimated or deteriorates a sufficient amount of loan loss reserve has been allocated to this loan to cover any potential future losses.   28    Allocation of the allowance for loan losses  The following table provides an allocation of the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004 and 2003.  December 31,
Percent of Loans on each Category

(Dollars in Thousands)2007(1)
        2006(1)
        2005(1)Allowance for
Loan Loss
        Percentage of Total Allowance
        Percentage of
Total Loans
        Allowance for
Loan Loss
        Percentage of Total Allowance
        Percentage of
Total Loans
        Allowance for
Loan Loss
        Percentage of Total Allowance
        Percentage of
Total LoansCommercial
        $        1,005
        21.71%
        9.46%
        $        1,691
        37.04%
        9.76%
        $        710
        16.29%
        9.38%Real Estate
        2,187
        47.22
        81.94
        593
        12.99
        80.77
        1,255
        28.79
        79.42Consumer
        589
        12.72
        7.42
        768
        16.82
        8.14
        858
        19.68
        10.07Other / Unallocated
        849
        18.35
        1.18
        1,513
        33.15
        1.33
        1536
        35.24
        1.13Total
        $    4,630
        100.00%
        100.00%
        $    4,565
        100.00%
        100.00%
        $    4,359
        100.00%
        100.00%
   2004(1)
        2003Allowance for
Loan Loss
        Percentage of Total Allowance
        Percentage of
Total Loans
        Allowance for
Loan Loss
        Percentage of Total Allowance
        Percentage of
Total LoansCommercial
        $        705
        16.86%
        9.13%
        $        830
        19.42%
        10.37%Real Estate
        1,302
        31.16
        76.40
        224
        5.24
        73.25Consumer
        953
        22.79
        13.25
        3,220
        75.34
        15.08Other / Unallocated
        1,221
        29.19
        1.22
        0
        0.00
        1.30Total
        $    4,181
        100.00%
        100.00%
        $    4,274
        100.00%
        100.00%
  1)
        Percentages for 2007, 2006, 2005, and 2004 are categorized differently from 2003 due to the Companys change in its methodology of the calculation of the Allowance for Loan Loss reserve. More enhanced pooling allocation factors are now being used, in addition to more detailed historical data being utilized. The allowance for loan loss reserve is computed quarterly by the Companys internal credit review department and is reviewed by the Senior Financial Officers of the Company. Management believes its method, implemented in 2004, pertaining to the allocation of loan loss reserve is both adequate and more properly allocates the reserve among the various categories.  The additional reserves allocated for Real Estate loans in 2007 is primarily due to the Companys increase in commercial real estate lending .
  Financial Condition  Balance Sheet (dollar amounts in thousands)  2007 vs. 2006  Total assets for the Company increased by $28,145 or 4.45% in 2007. Average interest earning assets grew by $24,385 or 4.26% for the year. Average interest bearing liabilities increased by $26,294 or 5.38% in 2007. Asset growth was primarily attributable to the continued increased market share in both North Carolina and Tennessee.  29    Loans (dollar amounts in thousands)  2007 vs. 2006  Loans net of unearned income and deferred fees increased by $13,692 or 3.13% in 2007. The majority of the increase was related to the Companys continued growth in market share in North Carolina and Tennessee.  Loans secured by real estate showed an increase of approximately $16,449, offset by a decline in loans secured by collateral other than real estate of approximately $2,757. The decline in loans secured by collateral other than real estate was primarily due to the Companys decision to discontinue its dealer finance division in the first quarter of 2005. This decision was made due to the competitive nature of this program and the risks associated with these indirect loans. The Company also implemented a more stringent credit analysis and scoring system in 2004 which also contributed to a decline in the number of approved loans. Management also believes the decline in loans
secured by collateral other than real estate was also due to the following:  
        General economic conditions and the lack of employment opportunity in portions of the Company's market area.
 
        A decline in consumer requests for new car financing because of special financing incentives offered by automobile companies.
 
        Consumers taking advantage of low mortgage rates to refinance home mortgages to obtain funds that might otherwise have been borrowed through a consumer loan.
  Reversal of this trend may occur to some extent as economic conditions change and higher interest rates make mortgage refinancing less appealing. Likewise in the current mortgage environment, loans secured by residential real estate could be harder to obtain. Also, management believes that automotive related financing offers and competition from the credit card sector will remain.  Since loans to individuals are generally higher yielding, this trend will not have a favorable effect on net interest income in the future but should have a favorable impact on future net charge-offs as the percentage of real estate secured loans to total loans increases.  The Companys portfolio of commercial, construction and land development loans has also experienced significant growth over the past few years. During 2007, this segment of loans grew $7,303 or 4.79%. This is primarily attributable to the North Carolina and Tennessee markets the Company has entered and the amount of growth occurring in these particular areas. The Company continues to see more loan growth in commercial real estate as opposed to residential activity.  30    Loan Portfolio  The table below classifies gross loans by major category and percentage distribution at December 31, for each of the past five years:   December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)2007
        2006
        2005
        2004
        2003Amount
        Percentage
        Amount
        Percentage
        Amount
        Percentage
        Amount
        Percentage
        Amount
        PercentageReal Estate Secured:Residential 1-4    family
        $ 163,918
        36.28%
        $156,753
        35.77%
        $151,815
        36.88%
        $ 146,970
        37.54%
        $141,693
        37.49%Multi-family
        9,420
        2.08
        10,520
        2.40
        4,148
        1.01
        3,379
        0.86
        2,651
        0.70Commercial, Construction
and Land Development
        159,795
        35.35
        152,491
        34.80
        140,178
        34.05
        122,997
        31.42
        113,146
        29.93Second Mortgages
        17,964
        3.97
        15,305
        3.49
        10,962
        2.66
        7,419
        1.89
        6,976
        1.85Equity Line of Credit
        9,782
        2.16
        9,493
        2.17
        9,800
        2.38
        8,981
        2.29
        7,430
        1.96Farmland
        9,475
        2.10
        9,343
        2.13
        10,015
        2.43
        9,347
        2.39
        4,843
        1.28$ 370,354
        81.94%
        $353,905
        80.77%
        $326,918
        79.41%
        $ 299,093
        76.39%
        $276,739
        73.21%Secured, Other:Personal
        $   24,741
        5.47%
        $  27,384
        6.25%
        $  33,395
        8.11%
        $   44,222
        11.30%
        $   48,637
        12.87%Commercial
        26,433
        5.85
        26,943
        6.15
        25,628
        6.23
        24,992
        6.38
        27,247
        7. 21Agricultural
        4,232
        0.94
        5,093
        1.16
        3,653
        .89
        4,024
        1.03
        4,506
        1.19$   55,406
        12.26%
        $  59,420
        13.56%
        $  62,676
        15.23%
        $   73,238
        18.71%
        $   80,390
        21.27%Unsecured:
        $   26,192
        5.80%
        $  24,845
        5.67%
        $  22,048
        5.36%
        $   19,176
        4.90%
        $   20,868
        5.52%Loans, gross
        $ 451,952
        100.00%
        $438,170
        100.00%
        $411,642
        100.00%
        $ 391,507
        100.00%
        $ 377,997
        100.00%
   The following table shows the maturity of loans outstanding, inclusive of contractual amortization, at December 31, 2007:  December 31, 2007
(Amounts in Thousands)Within One Year
        After One Year But
Within Five Years
        After Five YearsFixed
        Floating
        Fixed
        Floating
        Fixed
        Floating
        TotalReal Estate Secured:Residential 1-4 Family
        $13,867
        $3,542
        $36,462
        $6,965
        $43,123
        $59,959
        $163,918Multi-family
        1,151
        0
        6,336
        0
        1,933
        0
        9,420Commercial, Construction
& Land Development
        47,862
        19,406
        63,923
        4,085
        15,111
        9,408
        159,795Second Mortgages
        1,674
        925
        5,633
        85
        8,405
        772
        17,964Equity Line of Credit
        0
        978
        0
        3,913
        0
        4,891
        9,782Farmland
        1,674
        1,494
        5,490
        30
        616
        171
        9,475Secured, Other:Personal
        9,099
        5
        15,089
        3
        499
        46
        24,741Commercial
        7,920
        6,995
        10,669
        102
        747
        0
        26,433Agricultural
        1,005
        2,469
        580
        178
        0
        0
        4,232Unsecured
        14,469
        5,593
        3,014
        1,113
        1,967
        36
        26,192Loans, Gross
        $ 99,191
        $ 41,407
        $147,196
        $ 16,474
        $ 72,401
        $ 75,283
        $451,952
   31    Securities (dollar amounts in thousands)  2007 vs. 2006  Investment securities available for sale decreased $6,852 (market value) from December 31, 2006 to December 31, 2007 as a result of maturities and prepayments.  The Company made fewer purchases during 2007 primarily due to the flat yield curve. The Company maintained a large percentage of its excess funds in overnight funds during the year due to the higher yields obtained in fed funds versus longer term bond yields. Purchases during the year consisted  primarily of fixed rate agency notes and fixed rate municipal bonds. During the year, management has continued its investment strategy to purchase securities that will not only blend in with the Companys overall asset liability strategy but also maximize yield. The majority of the  pay downs were contractual amortization and prepayments on variable rate securities as a result of prepayments occurring on the underlying mortgages  At December 31, 2007, net unrealized losses in the Companys securities portfolio classified available for sale totaled $2,134. The majority of these unrealized losses were related to the Companys holdings ($6,250 in book value) of Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and Federal National Mortgage Association agency preferred stock. As discussed in Footnote 2 in the Companys Consolidated Financial Statements, management of the Company does not consider any of these losses to be other than temporary. It is managements opinion that the unrealized losses are primarily related to interest rate changes. Management also feels that the market values of these particular instruments have also been negatively affected by the accounting related irregularities at both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The Company has both the ability and intent to hold these instruments for a time
necessary to recover its cost These instruments are stocks and do not have a stated maturity date. The Company continues to hold a laddered structure of these investments (a single 1- year floater, two 2- year floaters and a single 5- year floater). 70% of the quarterly dividends paid on these instruments are tax exempt. Therefore, as the coupon rates on these stocks increase, the tax exempt benefit increases as well which also supports managements position that the values of these stocks are related to the interest rate cycle.  Investment Portfolio  The following table presents the maturity distribution, market value, amortized cost and approximate tax equivalent yield (assuming a 34% federal income tax rate) of the investment portfolio at December 31, 2007.  (Dollars in Thousands)Within One
Year
        One Year
Through
Five Years
        Five Years
Through
Ten Years
        After Ten
Years
        Yield
        Market
Value
        Amortized
CostMortgage-backed Sec  fixed rate
        $          3
        $   2,758
        $      1,680
        $    3,254
        4.32%
        $   7,695
        $   7,744Mtg.-backed Sec  variable rate
        -
        -
        30
        26,935
        5.06
        26,965
        27,100State & Municipals   tax exempt
        -
        -
        684
        60,978
        6.03
        61,662
        62,043State & Municipals   taxable
        -
        1,005
        -
        694
        4.84
        1,699
        1,718U.S. Agencies  fixed rate
        750
        -
        3,318
        11,300
        5,89
        15,368
        15,272Agency Preferred  variable rate
        -
        -
        -
        4,136
        5.68
        4,136
        6,250Corporate bonds  fixed rate
        -
        -
        -
        1,445
        6.66
        1,445
        1,438Corporate bonds  variable rate
        -
        -
        394
        11,370
        6.50
        11,764
        12,405SBA bonds  variable rate
        -
        -
        -
        83
        5.12
        83
        83CMOs  fixed rate
        -
        -
        -
        298
        5.31
        298
        297CMOs  variable rate
        -
        -
        -
        14
        3.91
        14
        14TOTAL
        753
        $   3,762
        $      6,106
        $120,507
        
        $131,132
        $134,365Total fixed rate securities
        $        753
        $  3,762
        $       5,682
        $ 77,969
        
        $ 88,168
        $ 88,513Total variable rate securities
        $             -
        $          -
        $          424
        $ 42,538
        
        $ 42,964
        $ 45,852
  32    Deposits (dollar amounts in thousands)  2007 vs. 2006  Total deposits grew by $12,638 or 2.53% in 2007. Non-interest bearing demand deposits increased by $4,305. Total time deposits increased by $11,633. Savings accounts declined $4,735 during the year as customers began placing more funds back into the equity markets or moving their funds to time deposits. The increase in time deposits is primarily a result of growth in the Companys newer markets.  The majority of the increase in time deposits was growth in shorter term CDs due to the current interest rate environment and the current yield curve. The Company and banks nationwide are continuing to face the challenge of gathering deposits, especially non-interest bearing deposits. The Company has continued to use its alternative funding sources (primarily FHLB advances) to help facilitate growth.  During 2007, the Company increased its borrowings from the FHLB by $15,000. The total
amount of FHLB borrowings as of December 31, 2007 was $91,100.  See Footnotes 9 and 10 in the Companys Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of the Banks outstanding FHLB advances. The Company secures the FHLB advances with a selected group of residential mortgage loans and commercial real estate loans as well as a specific group of securities available for sale.  The following table provides a breakdown of deposits at December 31 as indicated:  December 31,(Amounts in Thousands)2007
        2006Non-interest bearing demand deposits
        $    83,986
        $    79,681Interest bearing demand deposits
        61,284
        59,849Savings deposits
        46,931
        51,666Time deposits
        320,546
        308,913Total Deposits
        $  512,747
        $  500,109
  The average daily amount of deposits and rates paid on such deposits is summarized for the periods indicated in the following table:  Year Ended December 31,
(Dollars in Thousands)2007
        2006Amount
        
        Rate
        Amount
        
        RateNon-interest bearing  demand deposits
        $  81,746
        
        0.00%
        $  79,667
        
        0.00%Interest-bearing demand  deposits
        59,468
        
        1.92
        57,689
        
        1.89Savings deposits
        50,497
        
        1.25
        60,685
        
        1.26Time deposits
        316,151
        
        4.78
        292,247
        
        4.30Total
        $507,862
        
        
        $490,288
  The remaining maturities of time deposits greater than or equal to $100,000 at December 31, 2007 are as follows (Amount in thousands):  Maturity
        Amount3 months or less
        $     21,448Over 3 months through 6 months
        29,583Over 6 months through 12 months
        26,732Over 12 months
        34,387Total
        $    112,150
   33    Effects of Inflation  The Company's consolidated statements of income generally reflect the effects of inflation. Since interest rates, loan demand, and deposit levels are related to inflation, the resulting changes are included in net income. The most significant item which does not reflect the effects of inflation is depreciation expense. Historical dollar values used to determine depreciation expense do not reflect the effects of inflation on the market value of depreciable assets after their acquisition.  Liquidity and Capital Resources (dollar amounts in thousands)  Liquidity is the measure of the Banks ability to generate sufficient funds in order to meet customers demands for withdrawal of deposit balances and for the funding of loan requests. The Bank maintains cash reserves, in accordance with Federal Reserve Bank guidelines, and has sufficient flow of funds from investment security payments as well as loan payments to meet current liquidity needs.  Management of the Bank continuously monitors and plans the Banks liquidity position for the future. Liquidity is provided from cash and due from banks, federal funds sold, loan and investment security payments, core deposits, the national certificate of deposit market, lines of credit with correspondent banks and lines of credit with the Federal Home Loan Bank, Management believes that these sources of funds provide sufficient and timely liquidity for the foreseeable future.  Recent Accounting Pronouncements  See Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information relating to recent accounting pronouncements.  Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements  See Note 16 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for information relating to Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements.  Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk  Interest Rate Sensitivity Analysis  Interest rate risk refers to the exposure of the Companys earnings and market value of equity (MVE) to changes in interest rates. The amount of change in net interest income and MVE resulting from shifts in interest rates is determined by contractual maturity of fixed rate instruments, the re-pricing date for variable rate instruments, competition and customer reactions.  The Company runs simulation models through a range of positive and negative interest rate movements to determine the effect these shifts in interest rates would have on the market value of the Companys equity. The market value is determined by applying a discount rate to the Companys interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities that are not carried at market value, based on current rate levels at the time the model is run and calculating the present value of future cash flows.  There are several common components of interest rate risk that must be effectively managed to maintain minimal impact on the Companys earnings and capital. Re-pricing risk comes largely from  34    timing differences in the pricing of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Reinvestment risk refers to the reinvestment of cash flows from interest and principal payments and maturing assets at lower or higher rates. Basis risk arises when different yield curves or pricing indices do not change at precisely the same moment in time or magnitude so that earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities with the same maturity are not affected equally. Yield curve risk refers to unequal movements in short-term and long-term interest rates.  The Company is not a party to derivative financial instruments with off-balance sheet risks such as futures, forwards, swaps, and options. The Company, however, is a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risks such as commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit and recourse obligations in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. See Note 16 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information relating to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk. Management does not plan any future involvement in high risk derivative products.  The following table provides the maturities or re-pricing of investment securities, loans, and deposits as of December 31, 2007, and measures the interest rate sensitivity gap for each range of maturity indicated.  The table presents the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the periods they are expected to re-price or mature.  The amounts below also reflect various prepayment assumptions.  December 31, 2007
(Dollars in Thousands)
Maturing / Re-pricingWithin One
Year
        After One
But Within
Five Years
        After Five
Years
        TotalASSETSInterest-bearing
Investment Securities
        $    36,712
        $   14,765
        $    85,389
        $  136,866Fed Funds Sold
        8,129
        -
        -
        8,129Loans
        223,757
        193,706
        33,828
        451,291Non-interest bearing
Other Assets
        -
        -
        64,508
        64,508Total Assets
        $  268,598
        $  208,471
        $  183,725
        $  660,794LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS EQUITYInterest-bearing(1) All Interest- bearing Deposits
        $  332,110
        $   94,900
        $      1,754
        $  428,764Other Interest- bearing  Liabilities
        12,404
        17,368
        67,902
        97,674Non-interest-bearingDemand Deposits
        -
        -
        83,983
        83,983Other Liabilities
        -
        -
        3,662
        3,662Shareholders Equity
        -
        -
        46,711
        46,711Total Liabilities and Shareholders Equity
        $  344,514
        $  112,268
        $  204,012
        $  660,794Interest Rate Sensitivity GAP
        $(75,916)
        $    96,203
        $ (20,287)
        $             -(1)   For purposes of this schedule, the Company includes 100% of its statement savings, NOW and MMDA in the one year column.
 Asset Liability Management  The Companys primary objectives for asset and liability management are to establish internal controls and procedures that will result in managing interest rate risk, liquidity management, capital planning, asset mix and volume control, and loan and deposit pricing. The Asset and Liability Committee  35    (ALCO) is headed by the CEO and includes management personnel from the different areas of the Bank. The ALCO meets on a monthly basis.  In determining the appropriate level of interest rate risk, the ALCO reviews the changes in projected net interest income subject to various changes in interest rates. To help effectively measure interest rate risk, the ALCO utilizes rate sensitivity and simulation analysis to determine the impact on net interest income as well as the changes in the Economic Value of Equity. Simulation analysis is used to subject or shock the current re-pricing and maturing amounts to rising and falling interest rates. Rate change increments of 1% and 2% up and down are used in the monthly simulation analysis. Loan and investment security prepayments are estimated using current market information.  While this planning process is designed to protect the Company over the long-term, it does not provide near-term protection from interest rate shocks, as interest rate sensitive assets and liabilities do not, by their nature, move up or down in tandem in response to changes in the overall rate environment. The Company's profitability in the near term may be temporarily affected either positively by a falling interest rate scenario or negatively by a period of rising rates.  The following table shows the estimated cumulative impact on net interest income (NII) for the next 12 months as of December 31, 2007, subject to the specified interest rate changes. For purposes of this schedule the Company used a parallel rate shock on its interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities. A parallel rate shock means that a 100 basis point increase in the rate index (prime rate) would result in an immediate 100 basis point increase on interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities subject to the interest rate reset date. The Company uses a 50 basis point slope for its computation. The slope is the number of basis points per month that an index can increase or decrease until it reaches the target rate.  Rate change increment
        % change in NII
        $ change in NIIUp 100  basis points
        -4.03%
        -877,000Up 200 basis points
        -7.31%
        -1,593,000Down 100 basis points
        3.83%
        835,000Down 200  basis points
        4.98%
        1,086,000
   The above schedule assumes that 100% of the Companys interest bearing checking accounts and 100% of its statement savings accounts would re-price according to the above increments. The above schedule also assumes an approximate growth in assets of 5% over the next 12 months.  36    Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data  The following financial statements are incorporated by reference from the Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007:  
        Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on the Financial Statements per the annual report
 
        Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2007 and 2006;
 
        Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years in the two year period ended December 31, 2007;
 
        Consolidated Statements of Stockholders Equity for each of the years in the two year period ended December 31, 2007;
 
        Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years in the two year period ended December 31, 2007; and
 
        Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for December 31, 2007
  Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure  None.
   Item 9A. Controls and Procedures  On an on-going basis, senior management monitors and reviews the internal controls established for the various operating activities of the Bank. Additionally, the Company has created a Disclosure Review Committee to review not only internal controls but the information used by Companys financial officers to prepare the Companys periodic SEC filings and corresponding financial statements. The Committee is comprised of the Senior Management Team of the Bank and meets at least quarterly.  Internal audits conducted by the Companys internal audit department are also reviewed by senior officers to assist them in assessing the adequacy of the Companys internal control structure. These audits are also discussed in detail with the Companys Audit Committee.  We have carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and the participation of our management, including our Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, our Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, our Chief Financial Officer and our Vice President of Accounting, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Act), as of the end of the fiscal year covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, our CEO, COO, CFO and VP Accounting concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in providing reasonable assurance that (a) the information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time
periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commissions rules and forms, and (b) such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO, COO, CFO and VP Accounting, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.  Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that our disclosure controls and procedures will detect or uncover every situation involving the failure of persons within Highlands Bankshares, Inc. to disclose material information otherwise required to be set forth in our periodic reports.  37    There were not any changes in the Companys internal controls over financial reporting during the fourth fiscal quarter of the fiscal year covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.  This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Companys registered public
accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting.  Managements report was not subject to attestation by the companys registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of
the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit the company to provide only managements report in this annual report.  Item 9B. Other Information  None
   Part III.  Item 10.  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance  Pursuant to General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K, the information contained under the headings The Nominees, Executive Officers Who Are Not Directors, Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance, The Board of Directors and its Committees and Code of Ethics in the Companys Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference.  Item 11. Executive Compensation  Pursuant to General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K, the information contained under the headings  Executive Compensation in the Companys Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference.  Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters  Pursuant to General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K, the information contained under the heading Security Ownership of Management and Certain Beneficial Owners in the Companys Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference.  The following table sets forth information as of December 31, 2007, with respect to compensation plans under which shares of Common Stock are authorized for issuance.  38    Equity Compensation Plan Information  Plan Category
        Number of Securities to Be Issued upon Exercise of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights
        Weighted Average
Exercise Price of Outstanding Options, Warrants and Rights
        Number of Securities Remaining Available
for Future Issuance
Under Equity
Compensation Plans (a)Equity Compensation Plans Approved by Shareholders
        314,321
        $  12.86
        --Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved by Shareholders (b)
        
        $         -
        200,000Total
        314,321
        $  12.86
        200,000
  (a)
        Amounts exclude any securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights.
 (b)
        On September 13, 2006, the Board of Directors of the Company approved the Highlands Bankshares, Inc. 2006 Equity Compensation Plan (the Plan).  The Plan authorizes the Personnel and Compensation Committee (the Committee) of the Board of Directors to grant options, stock appreciation rights, stock awards and stock units to directors, officers, key employees, consultants and advisors to the Company and its subsidiaries who are designated by the Committee.  The Company is authorized to issue under the Plan up to 200,000 shares of its Common Stock.  Generally, if an award is forfeited, expires or terminates, the shares allocated to that award under the Plan may be reallocated to new awards under the Plan.  Shares surrendered pursuant to the exercise of a stock option or other award or in satisfaction of tax withholding requirements under the Plan may also be
reallocated to other awards.
  Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence  Pursuant to General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K, the information contained under the heading Transactions with Related Parties and The Board of Directors and its Committees in the Companys Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference.  Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services  Pursuant to General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K, the information contained under the headings Services and Fees and Pre-Approved Policies and Procedures in the Companys Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference.   39    Part IV.  Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules  (a)  (1)
        The response to this portion of Item 15 is submitted as a separate section of this report.
  (2)
        All applicable financial statement schedules required by Regulation S-X are included in the Notes to the 2007 Consolidated Financial Statements.
  (3)
        Exhibits:
  3.1
        Articles of Incorporation of Highlands Bankshares, Inc. (as restated in electronic format  only as of July 27, 2005), filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, File No. 000-27622, filed with the Commission on August 2, 2005, incorporated herein by reference.3.2
        Bylaws of Highlands Bankshares, Inc. attached as Exhibit 3.2 to the Registration Statement on Form 8-A, File No. 000-27622, filed with the Commission on January 24, 1996, incorporated herein by reference.10.1
        Highlands Union Bank 1995 Stock Option Plan, attached as Exhibit 10.1 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002, File No. 000-27622, incorporated herein by reference.10.2
        Highlands Bankshares, Inc. 2006 Equity Compensation Plan, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, File No. 000-27622, filed with the Commission on September 20, 2006, incorporated herein by reference.11
        Statement regarding computation of per share earnings (included as Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2007 Annual Report to Shareholders and incorporated herein by reference).13.1
        Annual Report to Shareholders  Financial Statements21
        Subsidiaries of the Corporation.23.1
        Consent of Brown, Edwards & Company, L.L.P.31.1
        Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.31.2
        Section 302 Certification of Chief Operations Officer.31.3
        Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation.31.4
        Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer of the Bank.32.1
        Statement of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.32.2
        Statement of Chief Operations Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.
   40     32.3
        Statement of Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.32.4
        Statement of Chief Financial Officer of the Bank Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.
  (b)
        Exhibits.
  The response to this portion of Item 15 as listed in Item 15(a)(3) above is submitted  as a separate section of this report.  (c)
        Financial Statement Schedules.
  The response to this portion of Item 15 is submitted as a separate section of this   report.  41    SIGNATURES  Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.  HIGHLANDS BANKSHARES, INC.  Date:  March 26, 2008
        BY:/s/ Samuel L. Neese
 Samuel L. Neese Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer  Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated on March 26, 2008.   Signature
        Title
        Date/s/ James D. Morefield
        Chairman of the Board, and Director
        March 26, 2008James D. Morefield/s/ Dr. James D. Moore, Jr.
        President
        March 26, 2008Dr. James D. Moore, Jr./s/ J. Carter Lambert
        Vice Chairman
        March 26, 2008J. Carter Lambert/s/ Samuel L. Neese
        Executive Vice President, and Chief
        March 26, 2008Samuel L. Neese
        Executive Officer (principal executive officer)/s/ James T. Riffe
        Executive Vice President and
        March 26, 2008James T. Riffe
        Cashier (principal financial and accounting officer)/s/ William E. Chaffin
        Director
        March 26, 2008William E. Chaffin/s/ E. Craig Kendrick
        Director
        March 26, 2008E. Craig Kendrick
   42     /s/ Clydes B. Kiser
        Director
        March 26, 2008Clydes B. Kiser/s/ Charles P. Olinger
        Director
        March 26, 2008Charles P. Olinger/s/ William J. Singleton
        Director
        March 26, 2008William J. Singleton/s/ Dr. H. Ramsey White, Jr.
        Director
        March 26, 2008Dr. H. Ramsey White, Jr.
  43   EXHIBIT INDEX  Exhibit No
        Description3.1
        
        Articles of Incorporation of Highlands Bankshares, Inc. (as restated in electronic format  only as of July 27, 2005), filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, File No. 000-27622, filed with the Commission on August 2, 2005, incorporated herein by reference.3.2
        
        Bylaws of Highlands Bankshares, Inc. attached as Exhibit 3.2 to the Registration Statement on Form 8-A, File No. 000-27622, filed with the Commission on January 24, 1996, incorporated herein by reference.10.1
        
        Highlands Union Bank 1995 Stock Option Plan, attached as Exhibit 10.1 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002, File No. 000-27622, incorporated herein by reference.10.2
        
        Highlands Bankshares, Inc. 2006 Equity Compensation Plan, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, File No. 000-27622, filed with the Commission on September 20, 2006, incorporated herein by reference.11
        
        Statement regarding computation of per share earnings (included as Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2007 Annual Report to Shareholders and incorporated herein by reference).13.1
        
        Annual Report to Shareholders  Financial Statements21
        
        Subsidiaries of the Corporation.23.1
        
        Consent of Brown, Edwards & Company, L.L.P.31.1
        
        Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.31.2
        
        Section 302 Certification of Chief Operations Officer.31.3
        
        Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation.31.4
        
        Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer of the Bank.32.1
        
        Statement of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.32.2
        
        Statement of Chief Operations Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.32.3
        
        Statement of Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.32.4
        
        Statement of Chief Financial Officer of the Bank Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.
   3