EDGAR 10-K Filing

Company CIK: 1035976
Filing Year: 2022
Filename: 1035976_10-K_2022_0001437749-22-006006.json

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ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Item 1.
Business
Overview
The Company
FNCB Bancorp, Inc. is a Pennsylvania business corporation and a registered bank holding company headquartered in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. FNCB Bancorp, Inc. incorporated in 1997 under its former name, First National Community Bancorp, Inc. and became an active bank holding company on July 1, 1998 when it acquired 100% ownership of FNCB Bank, formerly First National Community Bank (the "Bank"). In this report, the terms “FNCB,” "the Company," “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to FNCB Bancorp, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise. In certain circumstances, however, FNCB Bancorp, Inc. uses the term “FNCB” to refer to itself.
FNCB’s primary activity consists of owning and operating the Bank, which provides substantially all of FNCB’s earnings from its banking services.
FNCB had net income of $21.4 million, $15.3 million, and $11.1 million in 2021, 2020 and2019, respectively. Total assets were $1.664 billion at December 31, 2021, $1.466 billion at December 31, 2020 and $1.204 billion at December 31, 2019.
The Bank
Established as a national banking association in 1910, as of December 31, 2021 the Bank operated 17 full-service branch offices within its primary market area, Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Mission, Vision and Values
FNCB's mission is to make your banking experience simply better. We strive to be a prosperous, independent bank that is a leader in our community through the power of a strong team with a commitment to excellence for our customers, employees and shareholders. We take pride in our core values:
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Simplicity - Simplifying processes, systems and products to create a better banking experience.
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Integrity - Maintaining the highest ethical standards and practices.
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Mission - To make your banking experience simply better.
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People - A strong team of employees dedicated to the community, our customers, our shareholders and each other.
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Leadership - An organization that prospers under the guidance of focused and dedicated leaders.
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You - Our values equal YOU!
Products and Services
Retail Banking
FNCB accomplishes its mission and vision by providing a wide variety of traditional banking products and services to individuals and businesses, including online, mobile and telephone banking, debit cards, check imaging and electronic statements. Deposit products include various checking, savings, money market and certificate of deposit products, including a line of preferred products for higher-balance customers. The Bank is a member of IntraFi Network, formerly the Promontory Interfinancial Network, and participates in their Certificate of Deposit Account Registry (“CDARs”) and Insured Cash Sweep (“ICS”) programs, which provide customers with the ability to secure Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insurance on balances in excess of the standard limitations.
The Bank offers customers the convenience of 24-hour banking, seven days a week, through FNCB Online Banking (“FNCB Online”) via a secure website www.fncb.com or highly rated mobile app. FNCB’s digital product suite includes Mobile Pay (Apple Pay®, Samsung Pay® and Google Pay®), Zelle®, Bill Pay, Card Valet, mobile check deposit and My Rewards cash-back debit card offers. Through fncb.com, customers can directly access their accounts, open new accounts, apply for a mortgage or obtain a pre-qualification approval. Additionally, through Text Message Banking customers can quickly check on their money, even transfer funds, with a simple text message. Telephone banking (“Account Link”) provides customers with the ability to access account information and perform related account transfers through the use of a touch tone telephone.
In addition, customers can access money from their deposit accounts by using their debit card to make purchases or withdraw cash from any automated teller machines (“ATMs”) including ATMs located in each of the Bank’s branch offices plus several offsite locations. ﻿FNCB is a member of the AllPoint network, providing customers with access to over 55,000 surcharge-free ATMs worldwide. FNCB also provides its customers with CardValet®, allowing debit cardholders the ability to receive fraud alert messages and manage when, where and how their debit card is used.
The Bank offers business customers a suite of service options including, remote deposit capture, Merchant Services, Treasury Services, and purchasing cards ("PCards"). Remote deposit capture provides customers the ability to process daily check deposits to their accounts through an online image capture environment. Merchant Services offers customers payment processing solutions, including credit card terminals, integrated payment systems and a dedicated account manager. Treasury Services include ACH origination, ACH and check positive pay, sweep services, wire services and Safepoint by Loomis. PCards allow business customers the ability to earn a cash rebate on credit card purchases as well as additional functionality and reporting to effectively manage their expenses and procurement. FNCB Business Online Banking provides customers the ability to perform wire transfers and payments through ACH transactions, and process direct deposit payroll transactions for employees, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from their place of business.
The Bank offers its retail and business customers FNCB Bank Overdraft Protection to protect against the cost and inconvenience of returned checks. Customers can also apply for an Instant Money loan or transfer from another FNCB checking or savings account, for an added level of protection against unanticipated overdrafts due to cash flow emergencies and account reconciliation errors.
Lending Activities
FNCB offers and originates a variety of loans, including residential real estate loans, construction, land acquisition and development loans, commercial real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans, loans to state and political subdivisions, and consumer loans, generally to individuals and businesses in its primary market area. In addition to originating loans, FNCB from time to time purchases individual and pools of commercial, residential mortgage and consumer loans originated by third parties, which are included in the respective loan category.
Residential Mortgage Loans and Home Equity Term Loans and Lines of Credit
FNCB offers a variety of 1-4 family residential loans, home equity term loans and home equity lines of credit ("HELOCs"). FNCB’s suite of residential mortgage products include First Time Homebuyer mortgages, FHA and Home Possible® mortgages with low down payments to meet the home financing needs of customers. Home equity term loans have fixed interest rates with terms of up to 15 years. HELOCs have adjustable interest rates based on the prime interest rate for the United States and are offered up to a maximum combined loan-to-value ratio of 90%, based on the property’s appraised value. FNCB also offers a proprietary “WOW” mortgage, a first-lien, fixed-rate mortgage product with maturity terms ranging from 7.5 to 19.5 years. At December 31, 2021, 1-4 family residential mortgage loans, including home equity term loans and HELOCs totaled $234.1 million, or 23.9%, of the total loan portfolio. Except for the WOW mortgage, 1-4 family mortgage loans are originated generally for sale in the secondary market. However, FNCB may hold in portfolio 1-4 family residential mortgage loans as deemed necessary according to current asset/liability management strategies. During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Bank sold $9.4 million of 1-4 family mortgages. FNCB retains servicing rights on these mortgages.
Construction, Land Acquisition and Development Loans
FNCB offers interim construction financing secured by residential property for the purpose of constructing 1-4 family homes. FNCB also offers interim construction financing for the purpose of constructing residential developments and various commercial properties including shopping centers, office complexes and single purpose owner-occupied structures and for land acquisition. At December 31, 2021, construction, land acquisition and development loans amounted to $41.6 million and represented 4.2% of the total loan portfolio.
Commercial Real Estate Loans
Commercial real estate loans represent the largest portion of FNCB’s total loan portfolio and loans in this portfolio generally have larger loan balances. These loans are secured by a broad range of real estate, including but not limited to, office complexes, shopping centers, hotels, warehouses, gas stations, convenience markets, residential care facilities, nursing care facilities, restaurants, multifamily housing, farms and land subdivisions. At December 31, 2021, FNCB’s commercial real estate loans totaled $366.0 million, or 37.3%, of the total loan portfolio.
Commercial and Industrial Loans
Generally, FNCB offers commercial loans to sole proprietors and businesses located in its primary market area. In addition, FNCB purchases pools of secured and unsecured loans. The commercial loan portfolio includes, but is not limited to, lines of credit, dealer floor plan lines, equipment loans, vehicle loans and term loans. These loans are primarily secured by vehicles, machinery and equipment, inventory, accounts receivable, marketable securities and deposit accounts. At December 31, 2021, FNCB’s commercial and industrial loans totaled $193.1 million, or 19.7%, of the total loan portfolio. Also included in commercial and industrial loans are loans originated under various programs that were part of the governmental response to the COVID-19 pandemic. FNCB participated in the Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") promulgated under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act ("CARES Act"). PPP loans outstanding included in commercial and industrial loans were $21.9 million at December 31, 2021.
In the fourth quarter of 2021, FNCB launched a new equipment financing line of business that operates as 1st Equipment Finance. Based in FNCB's community office located in Exeter, Pennsylvania, 1st Equipment Finance provides both direct and indirect equipment financing solutions, including leasing alternatives, for business and municipal customers located within and outside FNCB's primary market area. At December 31, 2021, simple interest loans originated under this initiative totaled $7.9 million and are included in commercial and industrial loans.
Consumer Loans
Consumer loans include indirect automobile loans originated through various auto dealers in the Bank's market area, secured and unsecured installment loans, direct new and used automobile financing, personal lines of credit and overdraft protection loans. At December 31, 2021, FNCB’s consumer loans totaled $85.5 million, or 8.7%, of the total loan portfolio.
State and Political Subdivision Loans and Leases
FNCB originates state and political subdivision loans and leases, including general obligation, tax anticipation notes and municipal leases, primarily to municipalities in the Bank’s market area. At December 31, 2021, FNCB’s state and political subdivision loans and leases totaled $61.1 million, or 6.2%, of the total loan portfolio. Municipal leases originated through 1st Equipment Finance were $2.4 million at December 31, 2021.
Purchased Loans
FNCB purchases individual loans and loan pools originated by several third-party originators to diversify the loan portfolio and enhance net interest income. Purchase loans include pooled commercial equipment loans, unsecured commercial and secured and unsecured consumer individual loans and loan pools. The pools have relatively short average lives and provide steady cash flows. Commercial equipment loans are secured by UCCs and titles, secured consumer loans are collateralized by chattel paper, while credit enhancement features including reserve funds provide credit protection for the consumer and commercial unsecured pools. FNCB has reviewed individual loan files, if feasible, or reviewed random samples of loan files and credit metrics to ensure underwriting was aligned with FNCB's internal underwriting standards. FNCB does not provide servicing of purchased loans.
See Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 4, "Loans" to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information regarding FNCB's loan portfolio and lending policies.
Wealth Management
FNCB offers customers wealth management services through a revenue share agreement with a third-party provider. Customers are able to access alternative deposit products such as mutual funds, annuities, stocks, and bonds directly for purchase from an outside provider. FNCB receives a percentage of the commission revenue generated from these transactions.
Deposit Activities
In general, deposits, borrowings and loan and investment repayments are the major sources of funding for lending and other investment purposes. FNCB relies primarily on marketing, product innovation, technology and service to attract, grow and retain its deposits. Deposit account terms vary according to the minimum balance required, the time periods the funds must remain on deposit and the interest rate, among other factors. In determining the terms of deposit accounts, management considers the interest rates offered by its competitors, the interest rates available on Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") of Pittsburgh advances and other wholesale funding, its liquidity needs and customer preferences. Management regularly reviews FNCB’s deposit mix and deposit pricing as part of its asset/liability management, taking into consideration rates offered by competitors in its market area and balance sheet interest-rate sensitivity.
Competition
The banking and financial services industries are highly competitive. FNCB faces direct competition in originating loans and in attracting deposits from a significant number of financial institutions operating in its market area, many with a statewide or regional presence, and in some cases, a national presence, as well as other financial and non-financial institutions outside of its market area through online loan and deposit product offerings. Competition comes principally from other banks, savings institutions, credit unions, mortgage banking companies, internet-based financial technology (“FinTech”) companies and, with respect to deposits, institutions offering investment alternatives, including money market funds and online deposit accounts. The increased competition has resulted from changes in the legal and regulatory guidelines, as well as from economic conditions. The cost of regulatory compliance remains high for community banks as compared to their larger competitors that are able to achieve economies of scale.
As a result of consolidation in the banking industry, some of the Bank’s competitors and their respective affiliates are larger and may enjoy advantages such as greater financial resources, a wider geographic presence, a wider array of services, or more favorable pricing alternatives and lower origination and operating costs. FNCB considers its major competitors to be local commercial banks as well as other commercial banks with branches in its market area. Competitors may offer deposits at higher rates and loans with lower fixed rates, more attractive terms and less stringent credit structures than FNCB has been able to offer. The growth and profitability of FNCB depends on its continued ability to successfully compete. Management believes interest rates on deposits, especially money market and time deposits, and interest rates and fees charged on loans within FNCB’s market area to be very competitive.
Supervision and Regulation
FNCB and the Bank operate in a highly regulated industry and are subject to a variety of statutes, regulations, and policies, as well as ongoing regulatory supervision and review. Federal statutes that apply to FNCB and the Bank include the Gramm Leach Bliley Act (“GLB Act”), the Bank Holding Company Act (“BHCA”), the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), the USA Patriot Act, the Federal Reserve Act and the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. The Bank is subject primarily to the provisions of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act and, as a state-chartered financial institution, to the Pennsylvania Banking Code of 1965. In general, these statutes, regulations promulgated in accordance with these statutes, and interpretations of the statutes and regulations by the banking regulatory agencies establish the eligible business activities of FNCB and the Bank, certain acquisition and merger restrictions, limitations on intercompany transactions, such as loans and dividends, and capital adequacy requirements, among other things. These laws, regulations and policies are subject to frequent change and FNCB takes measures to comply with applicable requirements. The following summarizes some of the more significant provisions of these laws as they relate to FNCB and the Bank.
FNCB
FNCB is a bank holding company within the meaning of the BHCA and is registered with, and subject to regulation and examination by, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (“FRB”). FNCB is required to file annual and quarterly reports with the FRB and to provide the FRB with such additional information that they may require. BHCA and other federal laws subject bank holding companies to restrictions on the types of activities in which they may engage, and to a range of supervisory requirements and activities, including regulatory enforcement actions for violations of laws and regulations and unsafe and unsound banking practices.
The BHCA requires approval of the FRB for, among other things, the acquisition of direct or indirect ownership or control of more than five percent (5%) of the voting securities or substantially all the assets of any bank or bank holding company, or before the merger or consolidation with another bank holding company.
With certain limited exceptions, a bank holding company is prohibited from acquiring control of any voting shares of any company which is not a bank or bank holding company and from engaging directly or indirectly in any activity other than banking or managing or controlling banks or furnishing services to or performing services for its authorized subsidiaries. A bank holding company may, however, engage in, or acquire an interest in a company that engages in, activities that the FRB has determined by order or regulation to be so closely related to banking or managing or controlling banks as to be properly incidental thereto. In making such a determination, the FRB is required to consider whether the performance of such activities can reasonably be expected to produce benefits to the public, such as convenience, increased competition, or gains in efficiency, which outweigh possible adverse effects, such as undue concentration of resources, decreased or unfair competition, conflicts of interest or unsound banking practices. The FRB is also empowered to differentiate between activities commenced de novo and activities commenced by the acquisition, in whole or in part, of a going concern. Some of the activities that the FRB has determined by regulation to be closely related to banking include making or servicing loans, performing certain data processing services, acting as a fiduciary or investment or financial advisor, and making investments in corporations or projects designed primarily to promote community welfare.
Subsidiary banks of a bank holding company are subject to certain restrictions imposed by the Federal Reserve Act on any extensions of credit to the bank holding company or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates, or investments in the stock or other securities thereof, and on the taking of such stock or securities as collateral for loans to any borrower. Further, a holding company and any subsidiary bank are prohibited from engaging in certain tie-in arrangements in connection with the extension of credit.
The GLB Act allows a bank holding company or other company to certify status as a financial holding company, which allows such company to engage in activities that are financial in nature, that are incidental to such activities, or are complementary to such activities without further approval. The GLB Act enumerates certain activities that are deemed financial in nature, such as underwriting insurance or acting as an insurance principal, agent or broker, underwriting, dealing in or making markets in securities, and engaging in merchant banking under certain restrictions. The GLB Act also authorizes the FRB to determine by regulation what other activities are financial in nature, or incidental or complementary thereto. FNCB has not elected to be treated as a financial holding company.
FNCB also is subject to the periodic reporting requirements and anti-fraud regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act") and, in connection with the offer and sale of securities, including FNCB's securities, the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
FNCB’s shares of common stock are listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol "FNCB." Accordingly, FNCB is subject to certain financial, liquidity and corporate governance requirements imposed by Nasdaq. Non-compliance of these requirements could subject FNCB to potential denial of listing, or additional conditions, as necessary, to protect investors and the public interest.
The Bank
Effective June 30, 2016, upon its conversion to a state charter, the Bank is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities (“PADOBS”). The Bank’s deposit accounts are insured up to the maximum legal limit by the Deposit Insurance Fund of the FDIC and accordingly, the Bank is also regulated by the FDIC. The regulations of the PADOBS and the FDIC govern most aspects of the Bank’s business, including required reserves against deposits, loans, investments, mergers and acquisitions, borrowings, dividends and location and number of branch offices. The laws and regulations governing the Bank generally have been promulgated to protect depositors and the Deposit Insurance Fund, and not to protect shareholders.
Branching and Interstate Banking. The federal banking agencies are generally authorized to approve interstate bank merger transactions.
The Dodd-Frank Act amended federal banking law to permit banks to establish de novo branches in other states to the same extent as a bank chartered by that state would be so permitted. The interstate banking and branching provisions of the federal banking laws would permit the Bank to merge with banks in other states and branch into other states and would also permit banks from other states to acquire banks in the Bank's market area and to establish de novo branches in the Bank’s market area.
USA Patriot Act and the Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”). Under the BSA, a financial institution is required to have systems in place to detect certain transactions, based on the size and nature of the transaction. Financial institutions are generally required to report cash transactions involving more than $10,000 to the United States Treasury. In addition, financial institutions are required to file suspicious activity reports for transactions that involve more than $5,000 and that the financial institution knows, suspects or has reason to suspect, involve illegal funds, are designed to evade the requirements of the BSA or have no lawful purpose. Under the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act, commonly referred to as the “USA Patriot Act” or the “Patriot Act,” financial institutions are subject to prohibitions against specified financial transactions and account relationships, as well as enhanced due diligence standards intended to detect, and prevent, the use of the United States financial system for money laundering and terrorist financing activities. The Patriot Act requires financial institutions, including banks, to establish anti-money laundering programs, including employee training and independent audit requirements, meet minimum specified standards, follow minimum standards for customer identification and maintenance of customer identification records, and regularly compare customer lists against lists of suspected terrorists, terrorist organizations and money launderers.
Capital Adequacy Requirements. Federal banking agencies have adopted risk-based capital adequacy and leverage capital adequacy requirements pursuant to which they assess the adequacy of capital in examining and supervising banks and bank holding companies and in analyzing bank regulatory applications. Risk-based capital requirements determine the adequacy of capital based on the risk inherent in various classes of assets and off-balance sheet items.
Financial institutions are subject to extensive and detailed capital requirements, which generally follow a framework of rules adopted by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision commonly referred to as Basel III. Basel III calls for the following capital requirements:
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A minimum ratio of common equity tier I (“CET I”) capital to risk-weighted assets of 4.5%.
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A minimum ratio of tier I capital to risk-weighted assets of 6%.
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A minimum ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets of 8%.
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A minimum leverage ratio of 4%.
Basel III provides for a "capital conservation buffer" of 2.5% above the regulatory minimum capital requirements for each of the CET I, tier I capital, and total capital ratios. The buffer must consist entirely of CET I capital. As a result, if a banking organization does not have a CET I, Tier I capital, and total capital ratios of at least 7.0%, 8.5% and 10.5%, respectively, its ability to make or commit to discretionary dividends and discretionary bonus payments to "executive officers" or engage in share repurchases or redemptions generally will be restricted in accordance with a pre-determined "maximum payout ratio." Under the maximum payout ratio formula, a banking organization with a capital conservation buffer of less than 2.5% of risk-weighted assets would become subject to increasingly restrictive limitations on covered distributions (as a percentage of eligible retained income) as the capital conservation buffer decreases.
Basel III provides for new deductions from and adjustments to CET I. These include, for example, under current rules, the requirement that mortgage servicing rights, deferred tax assets dependent upon future taxable income and significant investments in non-consolidated financial entities be deducted from CET I to the extent that any one such category exceeds 25.00% of CET I.
Basel III also imposed changes to methodologies for determining risk weighted assets, including revisions to recognition of credit risk mitigation, such as a greater recognition of financial collateral and a wider range of eligible guarantors, the risk weighting of equity exposures and past due loans, and higher (greater than 100%) risk weighting for certain commercial real estate exposures that have higher credit risk profiles, including higher loan to value and equity components.
During 2018, the FRB raised the threshold of its "Small Bank Holding Company" exemption to the application of consolidated capital requirements for qualifying small bank holding companies from $1 billion to $3 billion of consolidated assets. Consequently, qualifying bank holding companies having less than $3 billion of consolidated assets are not subject to the consolidated capital requirements unless otherwise directed by the FRB.
Under the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act enacted in May 2018, federal banking agencies adopted the community bank leverage ratio (“CBLR”) framework available to depository institutions having less than $10 billion in total assets and meeting certain other qualifying criteria. The CBLR rules provide that qualifying community banking organizations that adopt the CBLR framework and that maintain a CBLR in excess of 9% will be considered to have met the generally applicable leverage and risk-based capital requirements under the banking agencies’ capital rules and the capital ratio requirements necessary to be considered “well capitalized.” FNCB has not elected to use the CBLR framework at this time.
Prompt Corrective Action. Under Section 38 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act ("FDIA"), each federal banking agency is required to implement a system of prompt corrective action for an insured institution which it regulates. The federal banking agencies have promulgated substantially similar regulations, which integrate Basel III capital requirements, to implement the system of prompt corrective action established by Section 38 of the FDIA.
The following are the capital requirements under Basel III as integrated into the prompt corrective action category definitions. As of December 31, 2021, the following capital requirements were applicable to the Bank for purposes of Section 38 of the FDIA.
Total
Tier I
Risk-Based
Risk-Based
CET I
Leverage
Tangible Equity
Capital Category
Capital Ratio
Capital Ratio
Capital Ratio
Ratio
to Assets
Well capitalized
>/= 10.0%
>/= 8.0%
>/= 6.5%
>/= 5.0%
N/A
Adequately capitalized with conservation buffer
>/= 10.5%
>/= 8.5%
>/= 7.0%
>/= 4.0%
N/A
Adequately capitalized
>/= 8.0%
>/= 6.0%
>/= 4.5%
>/= 4.0%
N/A
Undercapitalized
< 8.0%
< 6.0%
< 4.5%
< 4.0%
N/A
Significantly undercapitalized
< 6.0%
< 4.0%
< 3.0%
< 3.0%
N/A
Critically undercapitalized
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Less than 2.0%
At December 31, 2021, the Bank was “well capitalized” under the applicable requirements with a CET I capital and Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets ratios (for the Bank only) of 13.46%, a total capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 14.64% and a leverage ratio of 8.92%. Similarly, at December 31, 2020, the Bank exceeded capital requirements for an institution to be considered "well capitalized" with CET I capital and Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets ratios of 14.54%, a total capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 15.79% and a leverage ratio of 9.57%.
Regulatory Enforcement Authority. Federal banking law grants substantial enforcement powers to federal banking regulators. This enforcement authority includes, among other things, the ability to assess civil money penalties, to issue cease-and-desist or removal orders and to initiate injunctive actions against banking organizations and institution-affiliated parties. In general, these enforcement actions may be initiated for violations of laws and regulations and unsafe or unsound practices. Other actions or inactions may provide the basis for enforcement action, including misleading or untimely reports filed with regulatory authorities.
The Bank and its “institution-affiliated parties,” including its management, employees, agents, independent contractors, consultants such as attorneys and accountants and others who participate in the conduct of the financial institution’s affairs, are subject to potential civil and criminal penalties for violations of law, regulations or written orders of a governmental agency. In addition, regulators are provided with greater flexibility to commence enforcement actions against institutions and institution-affiliated parties. Possible enforcement actions include the termination of deposit insurance and cease-and-desist orders. Such orders may, among other things, require affirmative action to correct any harm resulting from a violation or practice, including restitution, reimbursement, indemnifications or guarantees against loss. A financial institution may also be ordered to restrict its growth, dispose of certain assets, rescind agreements or contracts, or take other actions as determined by the ordering agency to be appropriate.
Under provisions of the federal securities laws, a determination by a court or regulatory agency that certain violations have occurred at a company, or its affiliates can result in fines, restitution, a limitation of permitted activities, disqualification to continue to conduct certain activities and an inability to rely on certain favorable exemptions. Certain types of infractions and violations can also affect a public company in its timing and ability to expeditiously issue new securities into the capital markets.
The regulatory structure also gives the regulatory authorities extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including policies with respect to the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loan loss allowances for regulatory purposes.
The Dodd-Frank Act. The Dodd-Frank Act made significant changes to the bank regulatory structure and affects the lending, deposit, investment, trading and operating activities of financial institutions and their holding companies. To date, the following provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act are considered to be of the greatest significance to FNCB:
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expands the authority of the FRB to examine bank holding companies and their subsidiaries, including insured depository institutions;
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requires a bank holding company to be well capitalized and well managed to receive approval of an interstate bank acquisition;
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provides mortgage reform provisions regarding a customer’s ability to pay and making more loans subject to provisions for higher-cost loans and new disclosures;
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created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (the “CFPB”) that has rulemaking authority for a wide range of consumer protection laws that apply to all banks and has broad powers to supervise and enforce consumer protection laws;
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made permanent the $250 thousand limit for federal deposit insurance at all insured depository institutions;
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includes additional corporate governance and executive compensation requirements on companies subject to the Exchange Act;
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permits FDIC-insured banks to pay interest on business demand deposits;
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requires that holding companies and other companies that directly or indirectly control an insured depository institution serve as a source of financial strength;
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created the Financial Stability Oversight Council with authority to identify institutions and practices that might pose a systemic risk; and
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permits national and state banks to establish interstate branches to the same extent as the branch host state allows establishment of in-state branches.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Consumer Lending Regulation. The Dodd-Frank Act created the CFPB, which is granted broad rulemaking, supervisory and enforcement powers under various federal consumer financial protection laws, including the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, Truth in Lending Act (“TILA”), Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (“RESPA”), Fair Credit Reporting Act, Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, Consumer Financial Privacy provisions of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, and certain other statutes. The CFPB has examination and primary enforcement authority with respect to depository institutions with $10 billion or more in assets. Smaller institutions are subject to rules promulgated by the CFPB but continue to be examined and supervised by federal banking regulators for consumer compliance purposes. The CFPB has authority to prevent unfair, deceptive or abusive practices in connection with the offering of consumer financial products. For example, the Dodd-Frank Act authorizes the CFPB to establish certain minimum standards for the origination of residential mortgages including, in certain circumstances, a determination of the borrower’s ability to repay. In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act allows certain borrowers to raise certain defenses to foreclosure if they receive any loan other than a “qualified mortgage” as defined by the CFPB. The Dodd-Frank Act permits states to adopt consumer protection laws and standards that are more stringent than those adopted at the federal level and, in certain circumstances, permits state attorneys general to enforce compliance with both the state and federal laws and regulations.
The CFPB’s rulemaking, examination and enforcement authority has and will continue to significantly affect financial institutions offering consumer financial products and services, including FNCB and the Bank. These regulatory activities may limit the types of financial services and products the Bank may offer, which in turn may reduce FNCB’s revenues.
FDIC Insurance Premiums. Under the FDIC's risk-based assessment system, deposit insurance assessments are based on each insured institution's total assets less tangible equity, thereby basing deposit insurance assessments on an institution’s total liabilities, not only insured deposits. A bank’s assessment is calculated by multiplying its individual assessment rate by its assessment base (average consolidated total assets less average tangible equity), determined quarterly. Banks with assets less than $10 billion, such as the Bank, are assigned an individual rate based on a formula using financial data and the bank’s CAMELS ratings.
At December 31, 2021, the Bank was considered in the lowest risk category, for deposit insurance assessments and paid an annual assessment rate ranging from 0.0005 basis points to 0.0006 basis points on the assessment base of average consolidated total assets less the average tangible equity during the assessment period.
Dividend and Share Repurchase Restrictions
FNCB is a legal entity separate and distinct from the Bank. FNCB’s revenues (on a parent company only basis) and its ability to pay dividends to its shareholders, or repurchase shares from its shareholders, are almost entirely dependent upon the receipt of dividends from the Bank. The right of FNCB, and consequently the rights of its creditors and shareholders to participate in any distribution of the assets or earnings of any subsidiary through the payment of such dividends or otherwise is necessarily subject to the prior claims of creditors of the subsidiary (including depositors) except to the extent that claims of FNCB, in its capacity as a creditor, may be recognized. Additionally, the ability of the Bank to pay dividends to FNCB is subject to Pennsylvania state law and various regulatory restrictions.
The declaration of cash dividends on FNCB’s common stock, or the repurchase of shares of its common stock, is at the discretion of its board of directors, and any decision to declare a dividend, or repurchase shares, is based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, earnings, prospects, financial condition, regulatory capital levels, applicable covenants under any credit agreements, notes and other contractual restrictions, Pennsylvania law, federal bank regulatory law, and other factors deemed relevant.
Human Capital Resources
FNCB's employees support its vision to be a leader in the community with a commitment to financial excellence for customers and shareholders and deliver its mission to make your banking experience simply better. With this in mind, FNCB recognizes that the success of our organization is highly correlated to the effectiveness of the FNCB team. In order to attract, motivate and retain high-quality staff, the Bank must have a competitive, broad-based compensation plan. FNCB focuses on ensuring top talent is compensated appropriately and entry-level starting salaries are competitive and provide an opportunity for advancement.
As FNCB’s leadership culture and business model evolves, FNCB's policies, practices and programs must also evolve and support and reinforce our desired culture and business needs. The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors evaluates and modifies policies, practices and programs on an ongoing basis to ensure compensation plans are competitive and do not encourage inappropriate risk taking. Market competitive and risk appropriate incentive plans have been fully implemented for management, commercial lending, branch banking, specialty sales functions and all staff positions. FNCB also has a Long-Term Incentive Plan designed to align shareholder goals with employee goals and to encourage retention of key officers.
FNCB is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
In 2021, FNCB Bank was voted "The Best Place to Work" in northeastern, Pennsylvania for the fifth consecutive year, as part of the annual Reader's Choice Awards survey conducted by a local newspaper. As of December 31, 2021, FNCB, including the Bank, employed 227 persons, including 23 part-time employees.
Available Information
FNCB files reports, proxy and information statements and other information electronically with the SEC. The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. The SEC’s website site address is https://www.sec.gov. FNCB makes its Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments thereto available through its website at https://www.fncb.com. The information contained on our website is not included as a part of, or incorporated by reference in, this Annual Report on Form 10-K. These reports may also be obtained free of charge as soon as practicable after filing or furnishing them to the SEC upon request by sending an email to corporatesecretary@fncb.com. Information may also be obtained via written request to FNCB Bancorp, Inc. Attention: Chief Financial Officer, 102 East Drinker Street, Dunmore, PA 18512.

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
The operations and financial results of FNCB are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including those described below. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones FNCB faces. Additional risks and uncertainties FNCB is unaware of, or currently believes are not material, may also become important factors affecting FNCB. If any of the following risks occur, FNCB’s business, financial condition, operating results and prospects could be materially and adversely affected. In that event, the price of the FNCB’s common stock could decline.
Risks Related to FNCB’s Business
Weakness in the economic environment, in general, and within FNCB’s market area could pose significant challenges for FNCB and could adversely affect its financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB’s success depends primarily on the general economic conditions in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the specific local markets in which it operates. Unlike larger national or other regional banks that are more geographically diversified, FNCB provides banking and financial services to customers primarily in the Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wayne County markets. The local economic conditions in these areas have a significant impact on the demand for FNCB’s products and services as well as the ability of customers to repay loans, the value of the collateral securing loans, and the stability of deposit funding sources. A significant decline in general economic conditions, caused by inflation, recession, acts of terrorism, severe weather or natural disasters, outbreak of hostilities or other international or domestic occurrences, unemployment, changes in securities markets or other factors could impact these local economic conditions and, in turn, have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s financial condition and results of operations. Specifically, weakness in economic conditions could result in one or more of the following:
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A decrease in the demand for FNCB's loans and other products and services;
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A decrease in customer savings generally and in the demand for FNCB's savings and other deposit products; and
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An increase in the number of customers and counterparties who become delinquent, file for protection under bankruptcy laws, or default on their loans or other obligations.
An increase in the number of delinquencies, bankruptcies, or defaults could result in a higher level of non-performing assets, net charge-offs, and provision for loan and lease losses. The markets FNCB serves are dependent on retail and service-related businesses and, thus, are particularly vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions affecting these sectors.
To the extent that economic conditions deteriorate, business and individual borrowers may be less able to meet their obligations to the Bank in full, in a timely manner, resulting in decreased earnings or losses to the Bank. To the extent that loans are secured by real estate, adverse conditions in the real estate market may reduce the ability of the borrowers to generate the necessary cash flow for repayment of the loan, and reduce the ability to collect the full amount of the loan upon a default. To the extent that the Bank makes fixed-rate loans, general increases in interest rates will tend to reduce its spread as the interest rates FNCB must pay for deposits would increase while interest income is flat. Economic conditions and interest rates may also adversely affect the value of property pledged as security for loans.
FNCB is subject to credit risk, which could adversely affect its profitability.
FNCB’s business depends on its ability to successfully measure and manage credit risk. As a lender, FNCB is exposed to the risk that the principal of, or interest on, a loan will not be paid timely or at all or that the value of any collateral supporting a loan will be insufficient to cover FNCB’s outstanding exposure. In addition, FNCB is exposed to risks with respect to the period of time over which the loan may be repaid, risks relating to loan underwriting, risks resulting from changes in economic and industry conditions, and risks inherent in dealing with individual loans and borrowers. The creditworthiness of a borrower is affected by many factors including local market conditions and general economic conditions. If the overall economic climate in the United States generally, or in the market areas in which FNCB operates specifically, experiences material disruption, FNCB’s borrowers may experience difficulties in repaying their loans, the collateral FNCB holds may decrease in value or become illiquid, and FNCB’s level of nonperforming loans, charge-offs and delinquencies could rise and require significant additional provisions for loan losses.
FNCB’s risk management practices, such as monitoring the concentrations of its loans and its credit approval, review and administrative practices, may not adequately reduce credit risk, and FNCB’s credit administration personnel, policies and procedures may not adequately adapt to changes in economic or any other conditions affecting related customers and the quality of the loan portfolio. Many of FNCB’s loans are made to small businesses that are less able to withstand competitive, economic and financial pressures than larger borrowers. Consequently, FNCB may have significant exposure if any of these borrowers becomes unable to pay their loan obligations as a result of economic or market conditions, or personal circumstances, such as divorce, unemployment or death. A failure to effectively measure and limit the credit risk associated with FNCB’s loan portfolio may result in loan defaults, foreclosures and additional charge-offs, and may necessitate that FNCB significantly increase its allowance for loan losses, each of which could adversely affect FNCB’s net income. As a result, FNCB’s inability to successfully manage credit risk could have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB’s loan portfolio contains a significant number of commercial real estate loans with relatively large balances, the deterioration of one or a few of these loans could cause a significant increase in non-performing loans.
As of December 31, 2021, approximately 41.5% of FNCB’s loan portfolio consisted of commercial real estate loans and construction, land acquisition and development loans. These types of loans are generally viewed as having a higher risk of default than residential real estate loans or consumer loans. These types of loans are also typically larger than residential real estate loans and consumer loans. Because FNCB’s loan portfolio contains a significant number of commercial real estate loans with relatively large balances, the deterioration of one or a few of these loans could cause a significant increase in non-performing loans. All non-performing loans totaled $3.9 million, or 0.39% of total gross loans, as of December 31, 2021, and $5.6 million, or 0.62% of total gross loans, as of December 31, 2020. Specifically, commercial real estate loans that were non-performing totaled $2.5 million, or 0.25%, of total gross loans, as of December 31, 2021, and $3.2 million, or 0.36%, of total gross loans, as of December 31, 2020. There were no construction, land acquisition and development loans that were non-performing at December 31, 2021 and 2020. An increase in non-performing loans in the future could result in an increase in the provision for loan and lease losses and an increase in loan charge-offs, both of which could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s financial condition and results of operations. The lending activities in which the Bank engages carry the risk that the borrowers will be unable to perform on their obligations. As such, general economic conditions, nationally and in FNCB’s primary market area, will have a significant impact on its results of operations.
FNCB’s concentrations of loans, including those to insiders and related parties, may create a greater risk of loan defaults and losses.
A substantial portion of FNCB’s loans are secured by real estate in the Northeastern Pennsylvania market, and substantially all of its loans are to borrowers in that area. FNCB also has a significant amount of commercial real estate, commercial and industrial, construction, land acquisition and development loans and land-related loans for residential and commercial developments. At December 31, 2021, $641.8 million, or 65.4%, of gross loans were secured by real estate, primarily commercial real estate. Management has taken steps to mitigate commercial real estate concentration risk by diversification among the types and characteristics of real estate collateral properties, sound underwriting practices, and ongoing portfolio monitoring and market analysis. Of total gross loans, $41.6 million, or 4.2%, were construction, land acquisition and development loans. Construction, land acquisition and development loans have the highest risk of uncollectability. An additional $193.1 million, or 19.7%, of portfolio loans were commercial and industrial loans not secured by real estate. Historically, commercial and industrial loans generally have had a higher risk of default than other categories of loans, such as single-family residential mortgage loans. The repayment of these loans often depends on the successful operation of a business and are more likely to be adversely affected by adverse economic conditions. While management believes that the loan portfolio is well diversified in terms of borrowers and industries, these concentrations expose FNCB to the risk that adverse developments in the real estate market, or in the general economic conditions in its general market area, could increase the levels of non-performing loans and charge-offs, and reduce loan demand. In that event, FNCB would likely experience lower earnings or losses. Additionally, if, for any reason, economic conditions in its market area deteriorate, or there is significant volatility or weakness in the economy or any significant sector of the area’s economy, FNCB’s ability to develop business relationships may be diminished, the quality and collectability of its loans may be adversely affected, the value of collateral may decline and loan demand may be reduced.
Commercial real estate, commercial and industrial and construction, land acquisition and development loans tend to have larger balances than single family mortgage loans and other consumer loans. Because FNCB’s loan portfolio contains a significant number of commercial and industrial loans, commercial real estate loans and construction, land acquisition and development loans with relatively large balances, the deterioration of one or a few of these loans may cause a significant increase in non-performing assets. An increase in non-performing loans could result in a loss of earnings from these loans, an increase in the provision for loan and lease losses, or an increase in loan charge-offs, which could have an adverse impact on FNCB’s results of operations and financial condition.
Guidance adopted by federal banking regulators provides that banks having concentrations in construction, land development or commercial real estate loans are expected to have and maintain higher levels of risk management and, potentially, higher levels of capital, which may adversely affect shareholder returns, or require FNCB to obtain additional capital sooner than it otherwise would. Excluded from the scope of this guidance are loans secured by non-farm nonresidential properties where the primary source of repayment is the cash flow from the ongoing operations and activities conducted by the party, or affiliate of the party, who owns the property.
Outstanding loans and line of credit balances to directors, officers and their related parties totaled $71.4 million as of December 31, 2021. At December 31, 2021, there were no loans to directors, officers and their related parties that were categorized as criticized loans within the Bank’s risk rating system, meaning they are not considered to present a higher risk of collection than other loans. See Note 11, “Related Party Transactions” of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" and Item 13, “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence” to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information regarding loans to officers and directors and/or their related parties
FNCB’s portfolio of loans to small and mid-sized community-based businesses may increase its credit risk.
Many of FNCB’s commercial business and commercial real estate loans are made to small business or middle market customers. These businesses generally have fewer financial resources in terms of capital or borrowing capacity than larger entities and have a heightened vulnerability to economic conditions. If general economic conditions in the market area in which FNCB operates negatively impact this important customer sector, FNCB’s results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected. Moreover, a portion of these loans have been made by FNCB in recent years and the borrowers may not have experienced a complete business or economic cycle. The deterioration of FNCB’s borrowers’ businesses may hinder their ability to repay their loans with FNCB, which could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s financial condition and results of operations.
The appraisals and other valuation techniques FNCB uses in evaluating and monitoring loans secured by real property and other real estate owned may not accurately reflect the net value of the asset.
In considering whether to make a loan secured by real property, FNCB generally requires an appraisal of the property. However, an appraisal is only an estimate of the value of the property at the time the appraisal is made, and, as real estate values may change significantly in relatively short periods of time (especially in periods of heightened economic uncertainty), this estimate may not accurately reflect the net value of the collateral after the loan is made. As a result, FNCB may not be able to realize the full amount of any remaining indebtedness when FNCB forecloses on and sells the relevant property. In addition, FNCB relies on appraisals and other valuation techniques to establish the value of other real estate owned (“OREO”), that FNCB acquires through foreclosure proceedings and to determine loan impairments. If any of these valuations are inaccurate, FNCB’s financial statements may not reflect the correct value of FNCB’s OREO, if any, and FNCB’s allowance for loan and lease losses may not reflect accurate loan impairments. Inaccurate valuation of OREO or inaccurate provisioning for loan and lease losses could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB’s financial condition and results of operations would be adversely affected if the ALLL is not sufficient to absorb actual losses or if increases to the ALLL were required.
The lending activities in which the Bank engages carry the risk that the borrowers will be unable to perform on their obligations, and that the collateral securing the payment of their obligations may be insufficient to assure repayment. FNCB may experience significant credit losses, which could have a material adverse effect on its operating results. Management makes various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of FNCB’s loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of its borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of many of its loans, which it uses as a basis to estimate and establish its reserves for losses. In determining the amount of the ALLL, management reviews loans, loss and delinquency experience, and evaluates current economic conditions. If these assumptions prove to be incorrect, the ALLL may not cover inherent losses in FNCB’s loan portfolio at the date of its financial statements. Material additions to FNCB’s allowance or extensive charge-offs would materially decrease its net income. At December 31, 2021, the ALLL totaled $12.4 million, representing 1.27% of loans, net of unearned income and net deferred loan origination fees.
Although management believes FNCB’s underwriting standards are adequate to manage normal lending risks, it is difficult to assess the future performance of its loan portfolio due to the ongoing economic environment and the state of the real estate market. The assessment of future performance of the loan portfolio is inherently uncertain. FNCB can give no assurance that non-performing loans will not increase or that non-performing or delinquent loans will not adversely affect its future performance.
In addition, federal and state regulators periodically review the ALLL and may require increases to the ALLL or further loan charge-offs. Any increase in ALLL or loan charge-offs as required by these regulatory agencies could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s results of operations and financial condition.
If management concludes that the decline in value of any of FNCB’s investment securities is other-than-temporary, FNCB is required to write down the security to reflect credit-related impairments through a charge to earnings.
Management reviews FNCB’s investment securities portfolio at each quarter-end reporting period to determine whether the fair value is below the current carrying value. When the fair value of any of FNCB’s debt investment securities has declined below its carrying value, management is required to assess whether the decline represents an other than temporary impairment. If management concludes that the decline is other-than-temporary, it is required to write down the value of that security to reflect the credit-related impairments through a charge to earnings. Changes in the expected cash flows of securities in FNCB’s portfolio and/or prolonged price declines in future periods may result in OTTI, which would require a charge to earnings. Due to the complexity of the calculations and assumptions used in determining whether an asset is impaired, any impairment disclosed may not accurately reflect the actual impairment in the future. In addition, to the extent that the value of any of FNCB’s investment securities is sensitive to fluctuations in interest rates, any increase in interest rates may result in a decline in the value of such investment securities.
FNCB’s risk management framework may not be effective in mitigating risks or losses.
FNCB’s risk management framework is comprised of various processes, systems and strategies, and is designed to manage the types of risk to which FNCB is subject, including, among others, credit, market, liquidity, interest rate and compliance. FNCB’s framework also includes financial or other modeling methodologies that involve management assumptions and judgment. FNCB’s risk management framework may not be effective under all circumstances and may not adequately mitigate any risk or loss to FNCB. If FNCB’s risk management framework is not effective, FNCB could suffer unexpected losses and its business, financial condition, results of operations or growth prospects could be materially and adversely affected. FNCB may also be subject to potentially adverse regulatory consequences.
FNCB is subject to interest rate risk, which could adversely affect its profitability.
FNCB’s profitability, like that of most financial institutions, depends to a large extent on its net interest income, which is the difference between its interest income on interest-earning assets, such as loans and investment securities, and its interest expense on interest-bearing liabilities, such as deposits and borrowings.
Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond FNCB’s control, including general economic conditions and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies and, in particular, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, or the Federal Reserve. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence not only the interest FNCB receives on loans and securities and the interest FNCB pays on deposits and borrowings, but such changes could affect FNCB’s ability to originate loans and obtain deposits, the fair value of FNCB’s financial assets and liabilities, and the average duration of FNCB’s assets. If the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings increase at a faster rate than the interest rates received on loans and other investments, FNCB’s net interest income, and therefore earnings, could be adversely affected. Earnings could also be adversely affected if the interest rates received on loans and other investments fall more quickly than the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings. Any substantial, unexpected or prolonged change in market interest rates could have a material adverse impact on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB uses simulation analysis to model net interest income for various interest rate scenarios over a five-year time horizon. Based on the simulation analysis, FNCB’s interest sensitivity profile at December 31, 2021 was characterized by maturities or repricing of assets and liabilities that were well matched over the next six to nine months, moving to an asset sensitivity position by the end of the first year and in subsequent years of the model. These simulations are based on numerous assumptions, including but not limited to: the nature and timing of interest rate levels, prepayments on loans and securities, deposit decay rates, pricing decisions on loans and deposits, reinvestment of asset and liability cash flows, customer behavior in a rising rate environment and other factors. When short-term interest rates rise, the rate of interest FNCB pays on its interest-bearing liabilities may rise more quickly than the rate of interest that FNCB receives on its interest-earning assets, which may cause FNCB’s net interest income to decrease.
Additionally, a shrinking yield premium between short-term and long-term market interest rates, a pattern usually indicative of investors' waning expectations of future growth and inflation, commonly referred to as a flattening of the yield curve, typically reduces FNCB’s profit margin as FNCB borrows at shorter terms than the terms at which FNCB lends and invests.
In addition, an increase in interest rates could also have a negative impact on FNCB’s results of operations by reducing the ability of borrowers to repay their current loan obligations. These circumstances could not only result in increased loan defaults, foreclosures and charge-offs, but also reduce collateral values and necessitate further increases to the allowance for loan losses, which could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Changes in interest rates could reduce income, cash flows and asset values.
FNCB’s earnings and cash flows are largely dependent upon its net interest income. Net interest income is the difference between interest income earned on interest-earning assets such as loans and securities and interest expense paid on interest-bearing liabilities such as deposits and borrowed funds. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond FNCB’s control, including general economic conditions and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies and, in particular, the FRB. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence not only the interest FNCB receives on loans and securities and the amount of interest it pays on deposits and borrowings, but such changes could also affect FNCB’s ability to originate loans and obtain deposits, the fair value of FNCB’s financial assets and liabilities, and the average duration of FNCB’s mortgage-backed securities portfolio.
If the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings increase at a faster rate than the interest rates received on loans and investments, FNCB’s net interest income, and therefore earnings, could be adversely affected. Earnings could also be adversely affected if the interest rates received on loans and investments fall more quickly than the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings. Any substantial, unexpected, prolonged change in market interest rates could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s financial condition and results of operations.
Uncertainty relating to the expected phase-out of the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) may adversely affect FNCB.
The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority and the administrator of LIBOR have announced that the publication of the most commonly used U.S. dollar LIBOR settings will cease to be published or cease to be representative after June 30, 2023. The publication of all other LIBOR settings ceased to be published as of December 31, 2021. Given consumer protection, litigation, and reputation risks, the bank regulatory agencies have indicated that entering into new contracts that use LIBOR as a reference rate after December 31, 2021, would create safety and soundness risks and that they will examine bank practices accordingly. Therefore, the agencies encouraged banks to cease entering into new contracts that use LIBOR as a reference rate as soon as practicable and in any event by December 31, 2021. FNCB has discontinued originating LIBOR-based loans effective December 31, 2021, and will preferably negotiate loans using the Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("Term SOFR") going forward. As of December 31, 2021, FNCB had approximately $83.9 million of loans and $26.5 million in investments, as well as certain derivative contracts, borrowings and other financial instruments that have attributes that are either directly or indirectly dependent on LIBOR.
There continues to be substantial uncertainty as to the ultimate effects of the LIBOR transition, including with respect to the acceptance and use of Term SOFR and other benchmark rates, such as AMERIBOR, a benchmark developed by the American Financial Exchange and BSBY, a benchmark developed by Bloomberg Index Services, among others. Since Term SOFR and other benchmark rates are calculated differently, payments under contracts referencing new rates will differ from those referencing LIBOR, which may lead to increased volatility as compared to LIBOR. The transition has impacted our market risk profiles and required changes to our risk and pricing models, valuation tools, product design and hedging strategies. Furthermore, failure to adequately manage this transition process with customers could adversely impact FNCB's reputation. Although FNCB is currently unable to assess what the ultimate impact of the transition from LIBOR will be, failure to adequately manage the transition could have a material adverse effect on FNCB's internal systems and processes, financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB may not be able to successfully compete with others for business.
FNCB competes for loans, deposits and investment dollars with numerous regional and national banks and other community banking institutions, online divisions of banks located in other markets as well as other kinds of financial institutions and enterprises, such as securities firms, insurance companies, savings associations, credit unions, mortgage brokers, private lenders and Fintech companies. There is also competition for banking business from competitors outside of its market area. As noted above, FNCB and the Bank are subject to extensive regulations and supervision, including, in many cases, regulations that limit the type and scope of activities. Many competitors have substantially greater resources and may offer certain services that FNCB and the Bank does not provide, and operate under less stringent regulatory environments. The differences in available resources and applicable regulations may make it harder for FNCB to compete profitably, reduce the rates that it can earn on loans and investments, increase the rates it must offer on deposits and other funds, and adversely affect its overall financial condition and earnings. Refer to the section entitled “Business - Competition” included in Item 1, "Business" to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for an additional discussion of FNCB's competitive environment.
Changes in either FNCB’s financial condition or in the general banking industry could result in a loss of depositor confidence.
Liquidity is the ability to meet cash flow needs on a timely basis at a reasonable cost. The Bank uses its liquidity to extend credit and to repay liabilities as they become due or as demanded by customers. The Board of Directors establishes liquidity policies, including contingency funding plans, and limits and management establishes operating guidelines for liquidity. FNCB’s primary source of liquidity is customer deposits. The continued availability of this funding source depends on customer willingness to maintain deposit balances with banks in general and FNCB in particular. The availability of deposits can also be impacted by regulatory changes (e.g. changes in FDIC insurance, the liquidity coverage ratio, etc.), changes in the financial condition of FNCB, or the banking industry in general, and other events which can impact the perceived safety and soundness or economic benefits of bank deposits. While FNCB makes significant efforts to consider and plan for hypothetical disruptions in FNCB’s deposit funding through the use of liquidity stress testing, market related, geopolitical, or other events could impact the liquidity derived from deposits.
FNCB may not be able to retain or grow its core deposit base, which could adversely impact its funding costs.
Like many financial institutions, FNCB relies on customer deposits as its primary source of funding for its lending activities, and FNCB continues to seek customer deposits to maintain this funding base. FNCB’s future growth will largely depend on its ability to retain and grow its deposit base. As of December 31, 2021, FNCB had $1.455 billion in deposits. FNCB’s deposits are subject to potentially dramatic fluctuations in availability or price due to certain factors outside of its control, such as increasing competitive pressures for deposits, changes in interest rates and returns on other investment classes, customer perceptions of its financial health and general reputation, and a loss of confidence by customers in FNCB or the banking sector generally, which could result in significant outflows of deposits within short periods of time or significant changes in pricing necessary to maintain current customer deposits or attract additional deposits. Any such loss of funds could result in lower loan originations, which could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB is a bank holding company and depends on dividends from its subsidiary, FNCB Bank, to operate.
FNCB is an entity separate and distinct from the Bank. The Bank conducts most of FNCB’s operations and FNCB depends upon dividends from the Bank to service FNCB's debt, pay FNCB’s expenses and to pay dividends to FNCB's shareholders. The availability of dividends from the Bank is limited by various statutes and regulations. It is possible, depending upon the financial condition including liquidity and capital adequacy of the Bank and other factors, that the Bank’s regulators could limit the payment of dividends or other payments to FNCB by the Bank. In the event that the Bank was unable to pay dividends and would be unable to repurchase its shares, FNCB in turn would likely have to reduce or stop paying dividends to its shareholders. Failure to pay dividends to FNCB shareholders could have a material adverse effect on the market price of FNCB’s Common Stock. For additional information regarding dividend restrictions, refer to the section entitled “Regulatory Matters” included in Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
If FNCB loses access to wholesale funding sources, it may not be able to meet the cash flow requirements of its depositors, creditors, and borrowers, or have the operating cash needed to fund corporate expansion and other corporate activities.
Wholesale funding sources include brokered deposits, one-way CDARS and ICS deposits, federal funds lines of credit, securities sold under repurchase agreements, non-core deposits, and long-term debt. The Bank is also a member of the FHLB of Pittsburgh, which provides members access to funding through advances collateralized with certain qualifying assets within the Bank’s loan portfolio. In addition, FNCB’s available-for-sale securities provide an additional source of liquidity. Disruptions in availability of wholesale funding can directly impact the liquidity of FNCB and the Bank. The inability to access capital markets funding sources as needed could adversely impact FNCB’s financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, and level of regulatory-qualifying capital.
FNCB held approximately $1.9 million in capital stock of the FHLB as of December 31, 2021. FNCB must own such capital stock to qualify for membership in the Federal Home Loan Bank system which enables it to borrow funds under the FHLB advance program. If the FHLB were to cease operations, FNCB’s business, financial condition, liquidity, capital and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.
Interruptions or security breaches of FNCB’s information systems could negatively affect its financial performance or reputation.
In conducting its business, FNCB relies heavily on its information systems. FNCB collects and stores sensitive data, including proprietary business information and personally identifiable information of its customers and employees, in its data centers and on its networks. The secure processing, maintenance and transmission of this information is critical to FNCB’s operations and business strategy. Maintaining and protecting those systems is difficult and expensive, as is dealing with any failure, interruption or breach of those systems. Despite security measures, FNCB’s information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to security breaches, cyber-attacks by hackers or breaches due to employee error, malfeasance or other disruptions. Any damage, failure or breach could cause an interruption in operations. Computer break-ins, phishing and other disruptions could also jeopardize the security of information stored in and transmitted through FNCB’s computer systems and network infrastructure. The occurrence of any failures, interruptions or breaches could damage FNCB’s reputation, disrupt operations and the services provided to customers, cause a loss of confidence in the products and the services provided, cause FNCB to incur additional expenses, result in a loss of customer business and data, result in legal claims or proceedings, result in liability under laws that protect the privacy of personal information, result in regulatory penalties, or expose FNCB to other liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition and results of operations and competitive position.
FNCB depends on information technology and telecommunications systems of third parties, and any systems failures or interruptions could adversely affect FNCB’s operations and financial condition.
FNCB’s business depends on the successful and uninterrupted functioning of its information technology and telecommunications systems. FNCB outsources many of its major systems, such as data processing, deposit processing, loan origination, email and anti-money laundering monitoring systems. The failure of these systems, or the termination of a third-party software license or service agreement on which any of these systems is based, could interrupt FNCB’s operations, and FNCB could experience difficulty in implementing replacement solutions. In many cases, FNCB’s operations rely heavily on secured processing, storage and transmission of information and the monitoring of a large number of transactions on a minute-by-minute basis, and even a short interruption in service could have significant consequences. Because FNCB’s information technology and telecommunications systems interface with and depend on third party systems, FNCB could experience service denials if demand for such services exceeds capacity or such third-party systems fail or experience interruptions. If significant, sustained or repeated, a system failure or service denial could compromise FNCB’s ability to operate effectively, damage FNCB’s reputation, result in a loss of customer business and subject FNCB to additional regulatory scrutiny and possible financial liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, failure of third parties to comply with applicable laws and regulations, or fraud or misconduct on the part of employees of any of these third parties, could disrupt FNCB’s operations or adversely affect FNCB’s reputation.
FNCB is subject to cybersecurity risks and security breaches and may incur increasing costs in an effort to minimize those risks and to respond to cyber incidents, and FNCB may experience harm to its reputation and liability exposure from security breaches.
FNCB’s business involves the storage and transmission of customers' proprietary information and security breaches could expose FNCB to a risk of loss or misuse of this information, litigation and potential liability. While FNCB has not incurred a material cyber-attack or security breach to date, a number of other financial services and other companies have disclosed cyber-attacks and security breaches, some of which have involved intentional attacks. Attacks may be targeted at FNCB, its customers or both. Although FNCB devotes significant resources to maintain, regularly update and backup its systems and processes that are designed to protect the security of FNCB’s computer systems, software, networks and other technology assets and the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information belonging to FNCB or its customers, its security measures may not be effective against all potential cyber-attacks or security breaches. Despite FNCB’s efforts to ensure the integrity of its systems, it is possible that FNCB may not be able to anticipate, or implement effective preventive measures against, all security breaches of these types, especially because the techniques used change frequently or are not recognized until launched, and because cyber-attacks can originate from a wide variety of sources, including persons who are involved with organized crime or associated with external service providers or who may be linked to terrorist organizations or hostile foreign governments. These risks may increase in the future as FNCB continues to increase FNCB’s internet-based product offerings and expand its internal usage of web-based products and applications. If an actual or perceived security breach occurs, customer perception of the effectiveness of FNCB’s security measures could be harmed and could result in the loss of customers.
A successful penetration or circumvention of the security of FNCB’s systems, including those of third party providers or other financial institutions, or the failure to meet regulatory requirements for security of its systems, could cause serious negative consequences, including significant disruption of FNCB’s operations, misappropriation of FNCB’s confidential information or that of FNCB’s customers, or damage to FNCB’s computers or systems or those of FNCB’s customers or counterparties, significant increases in compliance costs (such as repairing systems or adding new personnel or protection technologies), and could result in violations of applicable privacy and other laws, financial loss to FNCB or to its customers, loss of confidence in its security measures, customer dissatisfaction, significant litigation and regulatory exposure, and harm to FNCB’s reputation, all of which could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
If FNCB’s information technology is unable to keep pace with growth or industry developments or if technological developments result in higher costs or less advantageous pricing, financial performance may suffer.
Effective and competitive delivery of FNCB’s products and services increasingly depends on information technology resources and processes, both those provided internally as well as those provided through third party vendors. In addition to better serving customers, the effective use of technology can improve efficiency and help reduce costs. FNCB’s future success will depend, in part, upon its ability to address the needs of its customers by using technology to provide products and services to enhance customer convenience, as well as to create efficiencies in its operations. There is increasing pressure to provide products and services at lower prices. This can reduce net interest income and non-interest income from fee-based products and services. In addition, the widespread adoption of new technologies could require FNCB to make substantial capital expenditures to modify or adapt existing products and services or develop new products and services. FNCB may not be successful in introducing new products and services in response to industry trends or developments in technology, or those new products may not achieve market acceptance. Many of FNCB’s competitors have greater resources to invest in technological improvements. Additionally, as technology in the financial services industry changes and evolves, keeping pace becomes increasingly complex and expensive. There can be no assurance that FNCB will be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services, which could reduce its ability to compete effectively. As a result, FNCB could lose business, be forced to price products and services on less advantageous terms to retain or attract customers, or be subject to cost increases.
FNCB relies on management and other key personnel and the loss of any of them may adversely affect its operations.
FNCB believes each member of the executive management team is important to its success and the unexpected loss of any of these persons could impair day-to-day operations as well as its strategic direction.
FNCB’s success depends, in large part, on its ability to attract and retain key people. Competition for the best people in most activities engaged in by FNCB can be intense and it may not be able to hire people or retain them. The unexpected loss of services of one or more of FNCB’s key personnel could have a material adverse impact on its business due to the loss of their skills, knowledge of its market, years of industry experience and to the difficulty of promptly finding qualified replacement personnel.
FNCB is dependent on the use of data and modeling in both its management’s decision-making generally and in meeting regulatory expectations in particular.
The use of statistical and quantitative models and other quantitatively-based analyses is endemic to bank decision-making and regulatory compliance processes, and the employment of such analyses is becoming increasingly widespread in FNCB’s operations. Liquidity stress testing, interest rate sensitivity analysis, allowance for loan loss measurement, portfolio stress testing and the identification of possible violations of anti-money laundering regulations are examples of areas in which FNCB is dependent on models and the data that underlies them. FNCB anticipates that model-derived insights will be used more widely in FNCB’s decision-making in the future. While these quantitative techniques and approaches improve FNCB’s decision-making, they also create the possibility that faulty data or flawed quantitative approaches could yield adverse outcomes or regulatory scrutiny. Secondarily, because of the complexity inherent in these approaches, misunderstanding or misuse of their outputs could similarly result in suboptimal decision making, which could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
New lines of business, products, product enhancements or services may subject FNCB to additional risk.
From time to time, FNCB may implement new lines of business or offer new products and product enhancements as well as new services within FNCB’s existing lines of business. There are substantial risks and uncertainties associated with these efforts. In developing, implementing or marketing new lines of business, products, product enhancements or services, FNCB may invest significant time and resources. FNCB may underestimate the appropriate level of resources or expertise necessary to make new lines of business or products successful to realize their expected benefits. FNCB may not achieve the milestones set in initial timetables for the development and introduction of new lines of business, products, product enhancements or services, and price and profitability targets may not prove feasible. External factors, such as compliance with regulations, competitive alternatives and shifting market preferences, may also impact the ultimate implementation of a new line of business or offering of new products, product enhancements or services. Any new line of business, product, product enhancement or service could have a significant impact on the effectiveness of FNCB’s system of internal controls. FNCB may also decide to discontinue business or products, due to lack of customer acceptance or unprofitability. Failure to successfully manage these risks in the development and implementation of new lines of business or offerings of new products, product enhancements or services could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB may be adversely affected by the soundness of other financial institutions.
FNCB’s ability to engage in routine funding transactions could be adversely affected by the actions and commercial soundness of other financial institutions. Financial services companies are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty and other relationships. As a result, defaults by, or even rumors or questions about, one or more financial services companies, or the financial services industry generally, could lead to market-wide liquidity problems and losses or defaults by FNCB or other institutions. These losses could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Damage to FNCB’s reputation could significantly harm its businesses, competitive position and prospects for growth.
FNCB’s ability to attract and retain investors, customers, clients, and employees could be adversely affected by damage to its reputation resulting from various sources, including environmental, social and governance ("ESG") related issues, employee misconduct, litigation, or regulatory outcomes; failure to deliver minimum standards of service and quality; compliance failures; unethical behavior; unintended breach of confidential information; and the activities of FNCB’s clients, customers, or counterparties. Actions by the financial services industry in general, or by certain entities or individuals within it, also could have a significantly adverse impact on FNCB’s reputation.
FNCB’s actual or perceived failure to identify and address various issues, including failure to properly address operational and ESG risks, could also give rise to reputation risk that could negatively impact business prospects. These issues include, among others, legal and regulatory requirements; consumer protection, fair lending, and privacy issues; properly maintaining customer and associated personal information; record keeping; protecting against money laundering; sales and trading practices; and ethical issues.
FNCB may be a defendant from time to time in a variety of litigation and other actions, which could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
FNCB has been and may continue to be involved from time to time in a variety of litigation matters arising out of its business. An increased number of lawsuits, including purported class action lawsuits and other consumer driven litigation, have been filed and will likely continue to be filed against financial institutions, which may involve substantial compensatory and/or punitive damages. Management believes the risk of litigation generally increases during downturns in the national and local economies. FNCB’s insurance may not cover all claims that may be asserted against it, and any claims asserted against it, regardless of merit or eventual outcome, may harm its reputation and may cause it to incur significant expense. Should the ultimate judgments or settlements in any litigation exceed insurance coverage, they could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, FNCB may not be able to obtain appropriate types or levels of insurance in the future, nor may it be able to obtain adequate replacement policies with acceptable terms, if at all. Refer to Item 3, “Legal Proceedings” to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for an additional discussion of FNCB's current material legal matters.
FNCB depends on the accuracy and completeness of information about customers and counterparties.
In deciding whether to extend credit or enter into other transactions with customers and counterparties, FNCB may rely on information furnished by or on behalf of customers and counterparties, including financial information. FNCB may also rely on representations of customers and counterparties as to the accuracy and completeness of that information. In deciding whether to extend credit, FNCB may rely upon customers' representations that their financial statements conform to GAAP and present fairly, in all material respects, the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the customer. FNCB also may rely on customer representations and certifications, or audit or accountants' reports, with respect to the business and financial condition of its customers. FNCB’s financial condition, results of operations, financial reporting and reputation could be negatively affected if FNCB relies on materially misleading, false, inaccurate or fraudulent information.
FNCB may face risks with respect to future expansion or acquisition activity.
FNCB may selectively seek to expand its banking operations through limited de novo branching or opportunistic acquisition activities. FNCB cannot be certain that any expansion activity, through de novo branching, acquisition of branches of another financial institution or a whole institution, or the establishment or acquisition of nonbanking financial service companies, will prove profitable or will increase shareholder value. The success of any acquisition will depend, in part, on FNCB’s ability to realize the estimated cost savings and revenue enhancements from combining its business and that of the target company. FNCB’s ability to realize increases in revenue will depend, in part, on its ability to retain customers and employees, and to capitalize on existing relationships for the provision of additional products and services. If FNCB estimates turn out to be incorrect or FNCB is not able to successfully combine companies, the anticipated cost savings and increased revenues may not be realized fully or at all, or may take longer to realize than expected. It is possible that the integration process could result in the loss of key employees, the disruption of each company’s ongoing business, diversion of management attention, or inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies that adversely affect FNCB’s ability to maintain relationships with clients and employees or to achieve the anticipated benefits of the merger. As with any combination of banking institutions, there also may be disruptions that cause FNCB to lose customers or cause customers to withdraw their deposits. Customers may not readily accept changes to their banking arrangements that FNCB makes as part of, or following, an acquisition. Additionally, the value of an acquisition to FNCB is dependent on its ability to successfully identify and estimate the magnitude of any asset quality issues of acquired companies.
FNCB may not be successful in overcoming these risks or other problems encountered in connection with potential acquisitions or other expansion activity. FNCB’s inability to overcome these risks could have an adverse effect on FNCB’s ability to implement its business strategy and enhance shareholder value, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition or results of operations. Additionally, if FNCB records goodwill in connection with any acquisition, FNCB’s financial condition and results of operation may be adversely affected if that goodwill is determined to be impaired, which would require FNCB to take an impairment charge.
FNCB could be subject to environmental risks and associated costs on its foreclosed real estate assets.
A substantial portion of FNCB’s loan portfolio is secured by real property. During the ordinary course of business, FNCB may foreclose on and take title to properties securing loans. There is a risk that hazardous or toxic substances could be found on these properties and that FNCB could be liable for remediation costs, as well as personal injury and property damage. Environmental laws may require FNCB to incur substantial expenses and may materially reduce the affected property's value or limit FNCB’s ability to sell the affected property. The remediation costs and any other financial liabilities associated with an environmental hazard could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
The COVID-19 pandemic is adversely affecting, and will likely continue to adversely affect, our business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.
Although U.S. and global economies have begun to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic as many health and safety restrictions have been lifted and vaccine distribution has increased, certain adverse consequences of the pandemic continue to impact the macroeconomic environment and may persist for some time, including labor shortages and disruptions of global supply chains. The growth in economic activity and demand for goods and services, alongside labor shortages and supply chain complications, has also contributed to rising inflationary pressures. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic will impact FNCB's business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including the rate and distribution and administration of vaccines globally, the severity and duration of any resurgence of COVID-19 variants either locally, nationally or globally, the continued effectiveness of FNCB's business continuity plan, the direct and indirect impact of the pandemic on FNCB's customers, counterparties and service providers, and actions taken by governmental authorities and other third parties in response to the pandemic.
Governmental authorities have taken significant measures to provide economic assistance to individual households and businesses, stabilize the markets, and support economic growth. These measures may not be sufficient to fully mitigate the negative impact of the pandemic. Additionally, some measures, such as a suspension of consumer and commercial loan payments, may have a negative impact on our business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations. We also expect that the temporary reduction of interest rates to near zero will, over the course of 2022, be reversed, with the Federal Reserve now signaling its concerns with respect to inflation and announcing that it will begin to taper its purchases of mortgages and other bonds.
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in heightened operational risks. A significant portion of FNCB's staff has been working remotely, and increased levels of remote access create additional cybersecurity risk and opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals have increased their attempts to compromise business emails, including an increase in phishing attempts, and fraudulent vendors or other parties may view the pandemic as an opportunity to prey upon consumers and businesses during this time. The increase in online and remote banking activities may also increase the risk of fraud in certain instances.
The length of the pandemic and the effectiveness of the measures being put in place to address it are unknown. Until the effects of the pandemic subside, there is a risk of reduced revenues in our businesses and increased customer defaults. Furthermore, the U.S. economy experienced a temporary recession as a result of the pandemic, and our business could be materially and adversely affected by another recession should the effects of the pandemic continue for a period of time or worsen. To the extent the pandemic adversely affects FNCB's business, financial condition, liquidity, or results of operations, it also has the effect of heightening many of the other risks described in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
FNCB has also participated as a lender in certain government programs designed to provide economic relief in response to the pandemic, including the SBA's Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") and the Federal Reserve's Main Street Lending Program. As a result of participating in these programs, FNCB faces increased risks, including credit, fraud risk and litigation. Additionally, while these loans to small business clients benefit from a government guaranty, many of these businesses may face difficulties even after being granted such a loan. Many of theses businesses have loans other than PPP loans with FNCB A decline in the financial condition of these businesses could result in a loss of earnings from these loans, an increase in the provision for loan and lease losses, or an increase in loan charge-offs, which could have an adverse impact on FNCB’s results of operations and financial condition.
Risks Related to FNCB’s Industry
Federal and state regulators periodically examine FNCB’s business and may require FNCB to remediate adverse examination findings or may take enforcement action against FNCB.
The FRB, the FDIC and the PADOBS, periodically examine FNCB’s business, including its compliance with laws and regulations. If, as a result of an examination, the Federal Reserve, FDIC or PADOBS were to determine that FNCB’s financial condition, capital resources, asset quality, earnings prospects, management, liquidity or other aspects of any of FNCB’s operations had become unsatisfactory, or that FNCB were in violation of any law or regulation, they may take a number of different remedial actions as they deem appropriate. These actions include the power to require FNCB to remediate any such adverse examination findings.
In addition, these agencies have the power to take enforcement action against FNCB to enjoin "unsafe or unsound" practices, to require affirmative action to correct any conditions resulting from any violation of law or regulation or unsafe or unsound practice, to issue an administrative order that can be judicially enforced, to direct an increase in FNCB’s capital, to direct the sale of subsidiaries or other assets, to limit dividends and distributions, including the repurchase of common stock, to restrict FNCB’s growth, to assess civil money penalties against FNCB or its officers or directors, to remove officers and directors and, if it is concluded that such conditions cannot be corrected or there is imminent risk of loss to depositors, to terminate FNCB’s deposit insurance and place the Bank into receivership or conservatorship. Any regulatory enforcement action against FNCB could have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB may be required to act as a source of financial and managerial strength for the Bank in times of stress.
FNCB, as a bank holding company, is required to act as a source of financial and managerial strength to the Bank and to commit resources to support the Bank if necessary. FNCB may be required to commit additional resources to the Bank at times when FNCB may not be in a financial position to provide such resources or when it may not be in FNCB’s, or its shareholders’ or creditors’, best interests to do so. A requirement to provide such support is more likely during times of financial stress for FNCB and the Bank, which may make any capital FNCB is required to raise to provide such support more expensive than it might otherwise be. In addition, any capital loans FNCB makes to the Bank are subordinate in right of repayment to deposit liabilities of the Bank.
FNCB is subject to extensive government regulation, supervision and possible regulatory enforcement actions, which may subject it to higher costs and lower shareholder returns.
The banking industry is subject to extensive regulation and supervision that govern almost all aspects of its operations. The extensive regulatory framework is primarily intended to protect the federal deposit insurance fund and depositors, not shareholders. Compliance with applicable laws and regulations can be difficult and costly and, in some instances, may put banks at a competitive disadvantage compared to less regulated competitors such as finance companies, mortgage banking companies, leasing companies and internet-based Fintech companies. FNCB’s regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in their supervisory and enforcement activities, including with respect to the imposition of restrictions on the operation of a bank or a bank holding company, the imposition of significant fines, the ability to delay or deny merger or other regulatory applications, the classification of assets by a bank, and the adequacy of a bank’s allowance for loan losses, among other matters. If they deem FNCB to be operating in a manner inconsistent with safe and sound banking practices, these regulatory authorities can require the entry into informal and formal supervisory agreements, including board resolutions, memorandum of understanding, settlement agreements and consent or cease and desist orders, pursuant to which FNCB would be required to implement identified corrective actions to address cited concerns and/or to refrain from taking certain actions in the form of injunctive relief. In recent years, the banking industry has faced increased regulation and scrutiny; for instance, areas such as BSA compliance (including BSA and related anti-money laundering regulations) and real estate-secured consumer lending (such as Truth-in-Lending regulations, changes in Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act regulations, implementation of licensing and registration requirements for mortgage originators and more recently, heightened regulatory attention to mortgage and foreclosure-related activities and exposures) are being confronted with escalating regulatory expectations and scrutiny. Non-compliance with laws and regulations such as these, even in cases of inadvertent non-compliance, could result in litigation, significant fines and/or sanctions. Any failure to comply with, or any change in, any applicable regulation and supervisory requirement, or change in regulation or enforcement by such authorities, whether in the form of policies, regulations, legislation, rules, orders, enforcement actions, or decisions, could have a material impact on FNCB, the Bank and other affiliates, and its operations. Federal economic and monetary policy may also affect FNCB’s ability to attract deposits and other funding sources, make loans and investments, and achieve satisfactory interest spreads. Any failure to comply with such regulation or supervision could result in sanctions by regulatory agencies, civil money penalties and/or reputation damage, which could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, compliance with any such action could distract management’s attention from FNCB’s operations, cause it to incur significant expenses, restrict it from engaging in potentially profitable activities and limit its ability to raise capital.
New or changed legislation or regulation and regulatory initiatives could adversely affect FNCB through increased regulation and increased costs of doing business.
Changes in federal and state legislation and regulation may affect FNCB’s operations. Laws and regulations, such as the Dodd-Frank Act and Basel III, may have unforeseen or unintended consequences on the banking industry. The Dodd-Frank Act has implemented significant changes to the U.S. financial system, including the creation of new regulatory agencies (such as the Financial Stability Oversight Council to oversee systemic risk and the CFPB to develop and enforce rules for consumer financial products), changes in retail banking regulations, and changes to deposit insurance assessments. For example, the Dodd-Frank Act has implemented new requirements with respect to “qualified mortgages” and new mortgage servicing standards have, and may continue to, increase costs associated with this business. Refer to the section entitled “Business - The Bank - Consumer Financial Protection Bureau” included in Item 1, "Business" to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a more detailed description of new or changed legislation or regulation and regulatory initiatives.
The Biden Administration may seek to implement a regulatory reform agenda, which could include a heightened focus on the regulation of loan portfolios and credit concentrations to borrowers impacted by climate change, heightened scrutiny on Bank Secrecy Act and anti-money laundering requirements, topics related to social equity, executive compensation, and increased capital and liquidity, as well as limits on share buybacks and dividends. In addition, mergers and acquisitions could be dampened by increased antitrust scrutiny. Reform proposals are also expected for the short-term wholesale markets. At this time it cannot be determined which, if any of these policies, would be implemented and what their impact would be. However, FNCB believes such uncertainty may reduce business activities, which ordinarily would be beneficial to its business.
Additionally, final rules to implement Basel III adopted in July 2013 revise risk-based and leverage capital requirements and limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonuses if a banking organization does not hold the required “capital conservation buffer.” The rule became effective for FNCB on January 1, 2015, with some additional transition periods. This additional regulation could increase compliance costs and otherwise adversely affect operations. Refer to the description in Item 1, "Business" to this Annual Report on Form 10-K under the heading “Capital Adequacy Requirements” for a more detailed description of the final rules. The potential also exists for additional federal or state laws or regulations, or changes in policy or interpretations, affecting many of FNCB’s operations, including capital levels, lending and funding practices, insurance assessments, and liquidity standards. The effect of any such changes and their interpretation and application by regulatory authorities cannot be predicted, may increase FNCB’s cost of doing business and otherwise affect FNCB’s operations, may significantly affect the markets in which it does business, and could have a materially adverse effect on FNCB.
FNCB is also subject to the guidelines under the GLB Act. The GLB Act guidelines require, among other things, that each financial institution develop, implement and maintain a written, comprehensive information security program containing safeguards that are appropriate to the financial institution’s size and complexity, the nature and scope of the financial institution’s activities and the sensitivity of any customer information at issue. In recent years there also has been increasing enforcement activity in the areas of privacy, information security and data protection in the United States, including at the federal level. Compliance with these laws, rules and regulations regarding the privacy, security and protection of customer and employee data could result in higher compliance and technology costs. In addition, non-compliance could result in potentially significant fines, penalties and damage to FNCB’s reputation and brand.
The Federal Reserve may also set higher capital requirements for holding companies whose circumstances warrant it. For example, holding companies experiencing significant internal growth or making acquisitions are expected to maintain strong capital positions substantially above the minimum supervisory levels, without significant reliance on intangible assets. FNCB’s regulatory capital ratios currently are in excess of the levels established for "well capitalized" institutions. Future regulatory change could impose higher capital standards.
Any new or revised standards adopted in the future may require us to maintain materially more capital, with common equity as a more predominant component, or manage the configuration of our assets and liabilities to comply with formulaic liquidity requirements. We may not be able to raise additional capital at all, or on terms acceptable to us. Failure to maintain capital to meet current or future regulatory requirements could have a significant material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB faces a risk of noncompliance and enforcement action with the Bank Secrecy Act and other anti-money laundering statutes and regulations.
The Bank Secrecy Act of 1970, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001, or the USA Patriot Act or Patriot Act, and other laws and regulations require financial institutions, among other duties, to institute and maintain an effective anti-money laundering program and to file reports such as suspicious activity reports and currency transaction reports. FNCB is required to comply with these and other anti-money laundering requirements. FNCB’s federal and state banking regulators, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”), and other government agencies are authorized to impose significant civil money penalties for violations of anti-money laundering requirements. FNCB is also subject to increased scrutiny of compliance with the regulations issued and enforced by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”). If FNCB’s program is deemed deficient, FNCB could be subject to liability, including fines, civil money penalties and other regulatory actions, which may include restrictions on FNCB’s business operations and its ability to pay dividends, or repurchase shares of its common stock, restrictions on mergers and acquisitions activity, restrictions on expansion, and restrictions on entering new business lines. Failure to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat money laundering and terrorist financing could also have significant consequences to FNCB's reputation. Any of these circumstances could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition or results of operations.
FNCB is subject to numerous "fair and responsible banking" laws designed to protect consumers, and failure to comply with these laws could lead to a wide variety of sanctions.
The Community Reinvestment Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Housing Act and other fair lending laws and regulations, including state laws and regulations, prohibit discriminatory lending practices by financial institutions. The Federal Trade Commission Act and the Dodd-Frank Act prohibit unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts or practices by financial institutions. The U.S. Department of Justice, or DOJ, federal banking agencies, and other federal and state agencies are responsible for enforcing these fair and responsible banking laws and regulations. A challenge to an institution’s compliance with fair and responsible banking laws and regulations could result in a wide variety of sanctions, including damages and civil money penalties, injunctive relief, restrictions on mergers and acquisitions activity, restrictions on expansion and restrictions on entering new business lines. Private parties may also have the ability to challenge an institution’s performance under fair lending laws in private class action litigation. Such actions could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations.
FNCB is subject to laws regarding the privacy, information security and protection of personal information and any violation of these laws or another incident involving personal, confidential or proprietary information of individuals could damage FNCB’s reputation and otherwise adversely affect FNCB’s business.
FNCB’s business requires the collection and retention of large volumes of customer data, including personally identifiable information (“PII”), in various information systems that FNCB maintains and in those maintained by third party service providers. FNCB also maintains important internal company data such as PII about its employees and information relating to its operations. FNCB is subject to complex and evolving laws and regulations governing the privacy and protection of PII of individuals (including customers, employees and other third parties). For example, FNCB’s business is subject to the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, or the GLB Act, which, among other things: (i) imposes certain limitations on FNCB’s ability to share nonpublic PII about FNCB’s customers with nonaffiliated third parties; (ii) requires that FNCB provides certain disclosures to customers about its information collection, sharing and security practices and afford customers the right to "opt out" of any information sharing by FNCB with nonaffiliated third parties (with certain exceptions); and (iii) requires that FNCB develops, implements and maintains a written comprehensive information security program containing appropriate safeguards based on FNCB’s size and complexity, the nature and scope of its activities, and the sensitivity of customer information FNCB processes, as well as plans for responding to data security breaches. Various federal and state banking regulators and states have also enacted data breach notification requirements with varying levels of individual, consumer, regulatory or law enforcement notification in the event of a security breach. Ensuring that FNCB’s collection, use, transfer and storage of PII complies with all applicable laws and regulations can increase FNCB’s costs. Furthermore, FNCB may not be able to ensure that customers and other third parties have appropriate controls in place to protect the confidentiality of the information that they exchange with FNCB, particularly where such information is transmitted by electronic means. If personal, confidential or proprietary information of customers or others were to be mishandled or misused (in situations where, for example, such information was erroneously provided to parties who are not permitted to have the information, or where such information was intercepted or otherwise compromised by third parties), FNCB could be exposed to litigation or regulatory sanctions under privacy and data protection laws and regulations. Concerns regarding the effectiveness of FNCB’s measures to safeguard PII, or even the perception that such measures are inadequate, could cause FNCB to lose customers or potential customers and thereby reduce FNCB’s revenues. Accordingly, any failure, or perceived failure, to comply with applicable privacy or data protection laws and regulations may subject FNCB to inquiries, examinations and investigations that could result in requirements to modify or cease certain operations or practices or in significant liabilities, fines or penalties, and could damage FNCB’s reputation and otherwise adversely affect FNCB’s operations, financial condition and results of operations.
Rulemaking changes implemented by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau may result in higher regulatory and compliance costs that may adversely affect FNCB’s business.
The Dodd-Frank Act created a new, independent federal agency, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, or CFPB, which was granted broad rulemaking, supervisory and enforcement powers under various federal consumer financial protection laws. The consumer protection provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act and the examination, supervision and enforcement of those laws and implementing regulations issued by the CFPB have created a more intense and complex environment for consumer finance regulation. The ultimate impact of this heightened scrutiny is uncertain but could result in changes to pricing, practices, products and procedures. It could also result in increased costs related to regulatory oversight, supervision and examination. These changes could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
The Bank’s FDIC deposit insurance premiums and assessments may increase.
The Bank’s deposits are insured by the FDIC up to legal limits and, accordingly, the Bank is subject to insurance assessments based on the Bank’s average consolidated total assets less its average tangible equity. The Bank’s regular assessments are determined by its risk classification, which is based on its regulatory capital levels and the level of supervisory concern that it poses. Numerous bank failures during the financial crisis and increases in the statutory deposit insurance limits increased resolution costs to the FDIC and put significant pressure on the Deposit Insurance Fund. In order to maintain a strong funding position and the reserve ratios of the Deposit Insurance Fund required by statute and FDIC estimates of projected requirements, the FDIC has the power to increase deposit insurance assessment rates and impose special assessments on all FDIC-insured financial institutions. Any future increases or special assessments could reduce FNCB’s profitability and could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to FNCB’s Common Stock
The price of FNCB’s common stock may fluctuate significantly, which may make it difficult for shareholders to resell shares of common stock at a time or price they find attractive.
FNCB’s stock price may fluctuate significantly as a result of a variety of factors, many of which are beyond its control. These factors include, among others:
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actual or anticipated quarterly fluctuations in operating results and financial condition;
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changes in financial estimates or publication of research reports and recommendations by financial analysts or actions taken by rating agencies with respect to FNCB or other financial institutions;
●
speculation in the press or investment community generally or relating to FNCB’s reputation or the financial services industry;
●
failure to declare dividends on FNCB’s common stock from time to time;
●
failure to meet analysts’ revenue or earnings estimates;
●
failure to integrate any future acquisitions or realize anticipated benefits from any future acquisitions;
●
strategic actions by FNCB or its competitors, such as acquisitions, restructurings, dispositions or financings;
●
fluctuations in the stock price and operating results of FNCB’s competitors or other companies that investors deem comparable to FNCB;
●
future sales or repurchases of FNCB’s equity or equity-related securities;
●
proposed or adopted regulatory changes or developments;
●
anticipated or pending audits or litigation that involve or affect FNCB;
●
any future investigations or proceedings that involve or affect FNCB;
●
adverse weather conditions, including floods, tornadoes and hurricanes;
●
geopolitical conditions such as acts or threats of terrorism or military conflicts;
●
domestic and international economic factors unrelated to FNCB’s performance; and
●
general market conditions and, in particular, developments related to market conditions for the financial services industry.
In addition, in recent years, the stock market in general has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations. This volatility has had a significant effect on the market price of securities issued by many companies, including for reasons unrelated to their operating performance. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect FNCB’s stock price, notwithstanding its operating results. FNCB expects that the market price of its common stock will continue to fluctuate and there can be no assurances about the levels of the market prices for its common stock.
General market fluctuations, industry factors and general economic and political conditions and events, such as economic slowdowns or recessions, interest rate changes or credit loss trends, could also cause FNCB’s stock price to decrease regardless of operating results.
The rights of holders of FNCB’s common stock to receive liquidation payments and dividend payments are junior to FNCB’s existing and future indebtedness and to any senior securities FNCB may issue in the future, and FNCB’s ability to declare dividends on, or repurchase shares of, the common stock may become limited.
Shares of the common stock are equity interests in FNCB and do not constitute indebtedness. As such, shares of FNCB’s common stock rank junior to all current and future indebtedness and other non-equity claims on FNCB with respect to assets available to satisfy claims on FNCB, including in a liquidation of FNCB. FNCB may, and the Bank and FNCB’s other subsidiaries may also, incur additional indebtedness from time to time and may increase FNCB’s aggregate level of outstanding indebtedness.
FNCB’s board of directors is authorized to cause FNCB to issue additional classes or series of preferred stock without any action on the part of the shareholders. If FNCB issues preferred shares in the future that have a preference over its common stock with respect to the payment of dividends or upon liquidation, or if FNCB issues preferred shares with voting rights that dilute the voting power of the common stock, then the rights of holders of FNCB’s common stock or the market price of FNCB’s common stock could be adversely affected.
FNCB’s ability to pay dividend, or repurchase shares of its common stock, may become limited by regulatory restrictions. In addition, the ability of the Bank to pay dividends to FNCB is limited by the Bank’s obligations to maintain sufficient accumulated net earnings and by other general restrictions on dividends that are applicable to state nonmember banks.
Holders of FNCB’s common stock are only entitled to receive the dividends that FNCB’s board of directors may declare out of funds legally available for those payments. In addition, FNCB's board of directors may only repurchase shares out of funds legally available for those repurchases. Although FNCB has historically paid cash dividends on its common stock, and has recently announced a share repurchase program to repurchase shares of its common stock, FNCB is not required to do so. FNCB cannot assure shareholders that it will continue paying dividends, or repurchase shares, in the future. This could adversely affect the market price of FNCB’s common stock. Also, as discussed above, FNCB is a bank holding company and its ability to declare and pay dividends, or repurchase shares, depends in part on federal regulatory considerations, including the guidelines of the Federal Reserve regarding capital adequacy and dividends.
FNCB may need to raise additional capital in the future, but that capital may not be available when it is needed and on terms favorable to current shareholders.
Laws, regulations and banking regulators require FNCB and the Bank to maintain adequate levels of capital to support their operations. In addition, capital levels are determined by FNCB’s management and Board of Directors based on capital levels that they believe are necessary to support business operations. Management regularly evaluates its present and future capital requirements and needs and analyzes capital raising alternatives and options. Although FNCB succeeded in meeting its current regulatory capital requirements, it may need to raise additional capital in the future to support growth, possible loan losses or potential OTTI during future periods, to meet future regulatory capital requirements or for other reasons.
The Board of Directors may determine from time to time that FNCB needs to raise additional capital by issuing additional shares of common stock or other securities. FNCB is not restricted from issuing additional shares of common stock, including securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for, or that represent the right to receive, common stock. Because FNCB’s decision to issue securities in any future offering will depend on market conditions and other factors beyond its control, FNCB cannot predict or estimate the amount, timing or nature of any future offerings, or the prices at which such offerings may be affected. Such offerings will likely be dilutive to common shareholders from ownership, earnings and book value perspectives. New investors also may have rights, preferences and privileges that are senior to, and that adversely affect, its then current common shareholders. Additionally, if FNCB raises additional capital by making additional offerings of debt or preferred equity securities, upon liquidation, holders of its debt securities and shares of preferred shares, and lenders with respect to other borrowings, will receive distributions of available assets prior to the holders of common stock. Additional equity offerings may dilute the holdings of existing shareholders or reduce the market price of FNCB’s common stock, or both. Holders of FNCB’s common stock are not entitled to preemptive rights or other protections against dilution.
FNCB cannot provide any assurance that additional capital will be available on acceptable terms or at all. Any occurrence that may limit access to the capital markets may adversely affect FNCB’s capital costs and its ability to raise capital and, in turn, its liquidity. Moreover, if FNCB needs to raise capital, it may have to do so when many other financial institutions are also seeking to raise capital and would have to compete with those institutions for investors. An inability to raise additional capital on acceptable terms when needed could have a material adverse effect on FNCB’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
An investment in FNCB’s common stock is not an insured deposit.
FNCB’s common stock is not a bank deposit and, therefore, is not insured against loss by the FDIC, any other deposit insurance fund or by any other public or private entity. Investment in FNCB’s common stock is inherently risky for the reasons described in this “Risk Factors” section, and elsewhere in FNCB’s reports filed with the SEC, including under heading “Risk Factors” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, or any subsequent report filed by FNCB. Investment in FNCB’s common stock is also subject to the market forces that affect the price of common stock in any company. As a result, shareholders may lose some or all of their investment in FNCB’s common stock.
Shareholders may not receive dividends on FNCB’s common stock or have their shares repurchased by FNCB.
Although FNCB has historically declared quarterly cash dividends on its common stock, and adopted a share repurchase program for the repurchase of shares of its common stock, FNCB is not required to do so and may reduce or cease to pay common stock dividends, or repurchase shares, in the future. If FNCB reduces or ceases to pay common stock dividends, or terminates its stock repurchase program, the market price of its common stock could be adversely affected.
The principal source of funds from which FNCB pays cash dividends, and repurchase shares, are the dividends received from the Bank. Banking laws and regulations of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania restrict the amount of dividends and loans a bank may make to its parent company. In addition, under The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991, banks may not pay a dividend, or repurchase shares if, after paying the dividend, or repurchasing such shares, the bank would be undercapitalized.
If FNCB fails to pay dividends, capital appreciation, if any, of its common stock may be the sole opportunity for gains on an investment in its common stock. In addition, in the event the Bank becomes unable to pay dividends to FNCB, FNCB may not be able to service its debt or pay its other obligations, pay dividends on, or repurchase shares of, its common stock and preferred stock. Accordingly, FNCB’s inability to receive dividends from the Bank could also have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition and results of operations and the value of a shareholder’s investment in FNCB’s common stock.
An entity holding as little as a 5% interest in FNCB’s outstanding securities could, under certain circumstances, be subject to regulation as a “bank holding company.”
Any entity, including a “group” composed of natural persons, owning or controlling with the power to vote 25% or more of FNCB’s outstanding securities, or 5% or more if the holder otherwise exercises a “controlling influence” over FNCB, may be subject to regulation as a “bank holding company” in accordance with the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, or the BHC Act. In addition, (a) any bank holding company or foreign bank with a U.S. presence may be required to obtain the approval of the Federal Reserve under the BHC Act to acquire or retain 5% or more of FNCB’s outstanding securities and (b) any person not otherwise defined as a company by the BHC Act and its implementing regulations may be required to obtain the approval of the Federal Reserve under the Change in Bank Control Act to acquire or retain 10% or more of FNCB’s outstanding securities. Becoming a bank holding company imposes statutory and regulatory restrictions and obligations, such as providing managerial and financial strength for its bank subsidiaries. Regulation as a bank holding company could require the holder to divest all or a portion of the holder’s investment in FNCB’s securities or those nonbanking investments that may be deemed impermissible or incompatible with bank holding company status, such as a material investment in a company unrelated to banking.
The requirements of being a public company may strain FNCB’s resources and divert management's attention.
FNCB is a public company, subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and applicable securities rules and regulations. Under FDIC regulations, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and regulations increase the scope, complexity and cost of corporate governance, reporting and disclosure practices over those of non-public or non-reporting companies. Among other things, the Exchange Act requires that FNCB file annual, quarterly and current reports with respect to its business and operating results and maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting. As a Nasdaq listed company, FNCB is also required to prepare and file proxy materials which meet the requirements of the Exchange Act and the SEC's proxy rules. Compliance with these rules and regulations increase FNCB’s legal and financial compliance costs, make some activities more difficult, time-consuming or costly, and increase demand on FNCB’s systems and resources, particularly if FNCB becomes ineligible to report as a “smaller reporting company” as defined in the SEC’s regulations. In order to maintain, appropriately document and, if required, improve FNCB’s disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting to meet the standards required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, significant resources and management oversight may be required. As a result, management's attention may be diverted from other business concerns, which could harm FNCB’s business and operating results. Additionally, any failure by FNCB to file its periodic reports with the SEC in a timely manner could, among other things, harm its reputation, cause its investors and potential investors to lose confidence in FNCB, restrict trading in or reduce the market price of FNCB’s common stock, and potentially limit its ability to access the capital markets.
As a public company, FNCB incurs significant legal, accounting, insurance, compliance and other expenses. Any deficiencies in FNCB’s financial reporting or internal controls could materially and adversely affect its business and the market price of FNCB’s common stock.
As a public company, FNCB incurs significant legal, accounting, insurance and other expenses. These costs and compliance with the rules of the SEC and the rules of Nasdaq increase FNCB’s legal and financial compliance costs and make some activities more time consuming and costly. SEC rules require that FNCB’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer periodically certify the existence and effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. In addition, FNCB is required to engage an independent registered public accounting firm to audit and opine on the design and operating effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. This process requires significant documentation of policies, procedures and systems, and review of that documentation and testing of FNCB’s internal control over financial reporting by its internal auditing and accounting staff and an independent registered public accounting firm. This process requires considerable time and attention from management, which could prevent FNCB from successfully implementing its business initiatives and improving its business, financial condition and results of operations, which may strain FNCB’s internal resources, and may increase its operating costs. FNCB may experience higher than anticipated operating expenses and outside auditor fees during the implementation of these changes and thereafter.
During the course of FNCB’s testing it may identify deficiencies that would have to be remediated to satisfy the SEC rules for certification of FNCB’s internal control over financial reporting. A material weakness is defined by the standards issued by the PCAOB as a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting that results in a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of FNCB’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. As a consequence, FNCB would have to disclose in periodic reports it files with the SEC any material weakness in its internal control over financial reporting. The existence of a material weakness would preclude management from concluding that FNCB’s internal control over financial reporting is effective and would preclude its independent auditors from expressing an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. In addition, disclosures of deficiencies of this type in FNCB’s SEC reports could cause investors to lose confidence in its financial reporting, and may negatively affect the market price of its common stock, and could result in the delisting of its securities from the securities exchanges on which they trade. Moreover, effective internal controls are necessary to produce reliable financial reports and to prevent fraud. If FNCB has deficiencies in its disclosure controls and procedures or internal control over financial reporting, it may materially and adversely affect FNCB.
FNCB’s disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting may not achieve their intended objectives.
FNCB maintains disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure the timely filing of reports as specified in the rules and forms of the SEC. FNCB also maintains a system of internal control over financial reporting. These controls may not achieve their intended objectives. Control processes that involve human diligence and compliance, such as its disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting, are subject to lapses in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human failures. Controls can also be circumvented by collusion or improper management override. Because of such limitations, there are risks that material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected and that information may not be reported on a timely basis. If FNCB’s controls are not effective, it could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations, and market for its common stock, and could subject it to additional regulatory scrutiny.
Changes in accounting standards could impact reported earnings.
From time to time there are changes in the financial accounting and reporting standards that govern the preparation of financial statements. These changes can materially impact how FNCB records and reports its financial condition and results of operations. In some instances, FNCB could be required to apply a new or revised standard retroactively, resulting in the restatement of prior period financial statements.
Changes which have been approved for future implementation include the calculation of the allowance for loan and leases losses on the basis of the current expected credit losses over the lifetime of our loans, referred to as the CECL model, which is expected to be applicable to us beginning in 2023. The change in this calculation could adversely affect our capital, regulatory capital ratios, ability to make larger loans, earnings and performance metrics. Any such changes could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Under the CECL model, banks will be required to present certain financial assets carried at amortized cost, such as loans held for investment and held-to-maturity debt securities, at the net amount expected to be collected. The measurement of expected credit losses is to be based on information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. This measurement will take place at the time the financial asset is first added to the balance sheet and periodically thereafter. This differs significantly from the "incurred loss" model required under current GAAP, which delays recognition until it is probable a loss has been incurred. Accordingly, we expect that the adoption of the CECL model will materially affect how we determine our allowance for loan losses, and could require us to significantly increase our allowance. Moreover, the CECL model may create more volatility in the level of the allowance for loan losses. If we are required to materially increase the level of the allowance for loan losses for any reason, such increase could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. We are evaluating the impact the CECL accounting model will have on our accounting, but expect to recognize a one-time cumulative-effect adjustment to the allowance for loan losses as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the new standard is effective. We cannot yet determine the magnitude of any such one-time cumulative adjustment or of the overall impact of the new standard on our financial condition or results of operations.
Anti-takeover provisions in FNCB’s charter documents could discourage, delay or prevent a change of control of FNCB’s company and diminish the value of FNCB’s common stock.
Some of the provisions of FNCB’s amended and restated articles of incorporation, as amended, and amended and restated bylaws, as amended, could make it difficult for its shareholders to change the composition of its board of directors, preventing them from changing the composition of management. In addition, the same provisions may discourage, delay or prevent a merger or acquisition that FNCB’s shareholders may consider favorable. These provisions include:
●
classifying FNCB’s board of directors into three classes of directors with staggered three-year terms;
●
authorizing FNCB’s board of directors to issue preferred shares without shareholder approval;
●
prohibiting cumulative voting in the election of directors;
●
requiring the approval of 75% of FNCB’s shareholders to approve any merger or sale of all, or substantially all, unless approval of such proposed transaction is recommended by at least a majority of FNCB’s entire board of directors;
●
authorizing FNCB’s board of directors to, if it deems advisable, oppose a tender or other offer for FNCB’s securities; and
●
requiring the approval of 75% of FNCB’s shareholders to amend certain provisions relating to business combinations not approved by the board of directors.
In addition, pursuant to the Pennsylvania Business Corporation Law (the “PBCL”), in the case of a merger or share exchange, with some exceptions, FNCB’s board of directors must submit the plan of merger or share exchange to the shareholders for approval, and the approval of the plan of merger or share exchange generally requires the approval of the shareholders at a meeting at which a quorum consisting of at least a majority of the shares entitled to vote on the plan exists.
Provisions of the PBCL, applicable to FNCB provide, among other things, that:
●
FNCB may not engage in a business combination with an “interested shareholder,” generally defined as a holder of 20% of a corporation’s voting stock, during the five-year period after the interested shareholder became such except under certain specified circumstances;
●
holders of FNCB’s common stock may object to a “control transaction” involving FNCB (a control transaction is defined as the acquisition by a person or group of persons acting in concert of at least 20% of the outstanding voting stock of a corporation), and demand that they be paid a cash payment for the “fair value” of their shares from the “controlling person or group”;
●
holders of “control shares” will not be entitled to voting rights with respect to any shares in excess of specified thresholds, including 20% voting control, until the voting rights associated with such shares are restored by the affirmative vote of a majority of disinterested shares and the outstanding voting shares of the Company; and
●
any “profit,” as defined in the PBCL, realized by any person or group who is or was a “controlling person or group” with respect to FNCB from the disposition of any equity securities of within 18 months after the person or group became a “controlling person or group” shall belong to and be recoverable by FNCB.
These anti-takeover provisions could impede the ability of FNCB’s common shareholders to benefit from a change of control and, as a result, could have a material adverse effect on the market price of FNCB’s common stock and shareholders’ ability to realize any potential change-in-control premium.
Short sellers of FNCB’s stock may be manipulative and may drive down the market price of FNCB’s common stock.
Short selling is the practice of selling securities that the seller does not own but rather has borrowed or intends to borrow from a third party with the intention of buying identical securities at a later date to return to the lender. A short seller hopes to profit from a decline in the value of the securities between the sale of the borrowed securities and the purchase of the replacement shares, as the short seller expects to pay less in that purchase than it received in the sale. As it is in the short seller's interest for the price of the stock to decline, some short sellers publish, or arrange for the publication of, opinions or characterizations regarding the relevant issuer, its business practices and prospects and similar matters calculated to or which may create negative market momentum, which may permit them to obtain profits for themselves as a result of selling the stock short. Issuers whose securities have historically had limited trading volumes or have been susceptible to relatively high volatility levels can be particularly vulnerable to such short seller attacks. The publication of any such commentary regarding FNCB in the future may bring about a temporary, or possibly long-term, decline in the market price of FNCB’s common stock. No assurances can be made that declines in the market price of FNCB’s common stock will not occur in the future, in connection with such commentary by short sellers or otherwise. When the market price of a company's stock drops significantly, it is not unusual for stockholder lawsuits to be filed or threatened against the company and its board of directors and for a company to suffer reputational damage. Such lawsuits could cause FNCB to incur substantial costs and divert the time and attention of FNCB’s board and management. In addition, reputational damage may affect FNCB’s ability to attract and retain deposits and may cause FNCB’s deposit costs to increase, which could adversely affect its liquidity and earnings. Reputational damage may also affect FNCB’s ability to attract and retain loan customers and maintain and develop other business relationships, which could likewise adversely affect FNCB’s earnings. Negative reports issued by short sellers could also negatively impact FNCB’s ability to attract and retain employees.

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ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Item 2.
Properties.
FNCB currently conducts business from its headquarters located at 102 E. Drinker Street, Dunmore, Pennsylvania, which now also houses the Bank’s Commercial Lending and Retail Banking Units. The Bank's main office is located at 100 S. Blakely Street, Dunmore, Pennsylvania, 18512. At December 31, 2021, FNCB also operated sixteen additional community banking offices located throughout Lackawanna, Luzerne and Wayne counties, two administrative offices and another lending center located in Dunmore, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. Eight of the offices are leased and the balance are owned by the Bank. Except for potential remodeling of certain facilities to provide for the efficient use of workspace and/or to maintain an appropriate appearance, each property is considered reasonably suitable and adequate for current and immediate future purposes except as discussed below.
As part of its responsibilities, management regularly evaluates FNCB’s delivery system and facilities including analyzing each office’s operating efficiency, location, foot traffic, structure and design. FNCB and the Bank have an ongoing comprehensive branch network improvement program that focuses on strengthening, better positioning and expanding its market coverage by developing new state-of-the-art customer facilities, as well as relocating and consolidating select locations. Initiatives FNCB executed under the branch network improvement program during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 include:
●
On January 18, 2021, with appropriate Board Approval, FNCB closed a limited purpose office (LPO), that was located at 3500 Winchester Road, Allentown, Pennsylvania.
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Office space at FNCB's community office, located in Exeter, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania was renovated to house the new 1st Equipment Finance team.
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On December 16, 2021, FNCB received approval from its primary regulator to consolidate the Bank's Wheeler Avenue Community Office into its Main Office, effective February 18, 2022. Both offices are located in Dunmore, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. The consolidation is consistent with the Bank's strategic goals and will not have any significant disruptions to customer service in the area.
See Note 5, "Bank Premises and Equipment" of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about FNCB's properties.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings
FNCB has been subject to tax audits, and is also a party to routine litigation involving various aspects of its business, such as employment practice claims, workers compensation claims, claims to enforce liens, condemnation proceedings on properties in which FNCB holds security interests, claims involving the making and servicing of real property loans and other issues incident to its business, none of which has or is expected to have a material adverse impact on the consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity of FNCB.

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ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not Applicable.
PART II

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ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY
Item 5.
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Market Prices of Stock and Dividends Paid
FNCB’s common shares are traded on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC ("Nasdaq") under the symbol "FNCB."
On January 27, 2021, FNCB's Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program under which up to 975,000 shares of FNCB's outstanding common stock may be acquired in the open market pursuant to a trading plan that was adopted in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The repurchase program commenced on February 3, 2021 and expired on December 31, 2021. On January 26, 2022, FNCB's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of an additional 750,000 shares of FNCB's outstanding common stock. Repurchases under both programs are administered through an independent broker and are subjected to SEC regulations as well as certain price, market volume and timing constraints specified in the trading plan. In 2021, FNCB repurchased 330,759 shares at a weighted-average price per share of $7.21, or $2.4 million in aggregate. Repurchases are funded from available working capital and the repurchased shares are returned to the status of authorized but unissued shares of common stock.
Holders
As of February 28, 2022, there were approximately 1,632 holders of record of FNCB’s common shares. Because many of FNCB’s shares are held by brokers and other institutions on behalf of shareholders, FNCB is unable to estimate the total number of shareholders represented by these record holders.
Dividends
Dividends declared and paid were $5.4 million, or $0.27 per share, in 2021 and $4.4 million, or $0.22 per share, in 2020. The dividend payout ratio was 25.4% for the year ended December 31, 2021 and 29.0% for the year ended December 31, 2020. It is the present intent of the Board of Directors to continue paying quarterly dividends going forward. However, FNCB’s ability to declare and pay future dividends is dependent upon earnings, financial position, appropriate restrictions under applicable laws, legal and regulatory restrictions and other factors relevant at the time FNCB’s Board of Directors considers any declaration of any dividends. For a further discussion of FNCB’s and the Bank’s dividend restrictions, refer to Note 14, “Regulatory Matters/Subsequent Events” in the notes to consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
On January 26, 2022, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.075 per share for the first quarter of 2022. The dividend is payable on March 15, 2022 to shareholders of record as of March 1, 2022.
Equity Compensation Plans
For more information regarding FNCB’s equity compensation plans, see Part III, Item 12, “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
None.
Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
None.

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Item 6.
Reserved
None.

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Item 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) represents an overview of the financial condition and results of operations of FNCB and should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" and Item 1A, "Risk Factors" of Part I to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
FNCB is in the business of providing customary retail and commercial banking services to individuals, businesses and local governments and municipalities through 16 full-service branch offices operated by FNCB Bank, FNCB's wholly-owned subsidiary, within its primary market area, Northeastern Pennsylvania.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
FNCB may from time to time make written or oral “forward-looking statements,” including statements contained in our filings with the SEC, in our reports to shareholders, and in our other communications, which are made in good faith by us pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
These forward-looking statements include statements with respect to FNCB’s beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions, that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, and are subject to change based on various factors (some of which are beyond our control). The words “may,” “could,” “should,” "will," “would,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” "project," "future" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.
Readers are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are only predictions and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumption that are difficult to predict, including those under "Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors," and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Therefore, actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Readers are also cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s analysis only as of the date of this report, even if subsequently made available by FNCB on its website or otherwise. FNCB does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of FNCB to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this report.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management has made estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the consolidated statements of condition and results of operations for the periods indicated. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.
FNCB’s accounting policies are fundamental to understanding management’s discussion and analysis of its financial condition and results of operations. Management has identified the policies on the determination of the allowance for loan and lease losses (“ALLL”), securities’ valuation and impairment evaluation, the valuation of other real estate owned (“OREO”) and income taxes to be critical, as management is required to make subjective and/or complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain and could be subject to revision as new information becomes available.
The judgments used by management in applying the critical accounting policies discussed below may be affected by changes and/or deterioration in the economic environment, which may impact future financial results. Specifically, subsequent evaluations of the loan portfolio, in light of the factors then prevailing, may result in significant changes in the ALLL in future periods, and the inability to collect on outstanding loans could result in increased loan losses. In addition, the valuation of certain securities in FNCB’s investment portfolio could be negatively impacted by illiquidity or dislocation in marketplaces resulting in significantly depressed market prices thus leading to impairment losses.
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses
Management evaluates the credit quality of FNCB’s loan portfolio on an ongoing basis, and performs a formal review of the adequacy of the ALLL on a quarterly basis. The ALLL is established through a provision for loan losses charged to earnings and is maintained at a level management considers adequate to absorb estimated probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the evaluation date. Loans, or portions of loans, determined by management to be uncollectible are charged off against the ALLL, while recoveries of amounts previously charged off are credited to the ALLL.
Determining the amount of the ALLL is considered a critical accounting estimate because it requires significant judgment and the use of estimates related to the amount and timing of expected future cash flows on impaired loans, estimated losses on pools of homogeneous loans based on historical loss experience, qualitative factors, and consideration of current economic trends and conditions, all of which may be susceptible to significant change. Banking regulators, as an integral part of their examination of FNCB, also review the ALLL, and may require, based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination, that certain loan balances be charged off or require that adjustments be made to the ALLL. Additionally, the ALLL is determined, in part, by the composition and size of the loan portfolio.
The ALLL consists primarily of two components, a specific component and a general component. The specific component relates to loans that are classified as impaired. For such loans, an allowance is established when the discounted cash flows, collateral value or observable market price of the impaired loan is lower than the carrying value of that loan. The general component covers all other loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted by qualitative factors. The general reserve component of the ALLL is based on pools of unimpaired loans segregated by loan segment and risk rating categories of “Pass”, “Special Mention” or “Substandard and Accruing.” Historical loss factors and various qualitative factors are applied based on the risk profile in each risk rating category to determine the appropriate reserve related to those loans. Substandard loans on non-accrual status above the $100 thousand loan relationship threshold and all loans considered troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”) are classified as impaired. Based on its evaluations, management may establish an unallocated component that is used to cover any inherent losses that exist as of the evaluation date, but which may not have been identified under the methodology.
See Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 4, “Loans” of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about the ALLL.
Securities Valuation and Evaluation for Impairment
Management utilizes various inputs to determine the fair value of its investment portfolio. To the extent they exist, unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets (Level 1) or quoted prices for similar assets or models using inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly (Level 2) are utilized to determine the fair value of each investment in the portfolio. In the absence of observable inputs or if markets are illiquid, valuation techniques are used to determine fair value of any investments that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement (Level 3). For Level 3 inputs, valuation techniques are based on various assumptions, including, but not limited to, cash flows, discount rates, adjustments for nonperformance and liquidity, and liquidation values. A significant degree of judgment is involved in valuing investments using Level 3 inputs. The use of different assumptions could have a positive or negative effect on FNCB’s financial condition or results of operations. See Note 3, “Securities” and Note 15, “Fair Value Measurements” of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about FNCB’s securities valuation techniques.
On a quarterly basis, management evaluates individual investment securities in an unrealized loss position for other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”). The evaluation for OTTI requires the use of various assumptions, including but not limited to, the length of time an investment’s fair value is less than book value, the severity of the investment’s decline, any credit deterioration of the issuer, whether management intends to sell the security, and whether it is more-likely-than-not that FNCB will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis. Debt investment securities deemed to have OTTI are written down by the impairment related to the estimated credit loss, and the non-credit related impairment loss is recognized in other comprehensive income. FNCB did not recognize any OTTI charges on investment securities for years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 within the consolidated statements of income.
See Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 3, “Securities” of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about valuation of securities and management's evaluation for OTTI.
Other Real Estate Owned
OREO consists of property acquired by foreclosure, abandonment or conveyance of deed in-lieu of foreclosure of a loan, and bank premises that are no longer used for operation or for future expansion. OREO is held for sale and is initially recorded at fair value less estimated costs to sell at the date of acquisition or transfer, which establishes a new cost basis. Upon acquisition of the property through foreclosure, or deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, any adjustment to fair value less estimated selling costs is recorded to the ALLL. The determination is made on an individual asset basis. Bank premises no longer used for operations or future expansion are transferred to OREO at fair value less estimated selling costs with any related write-down included in non-interest expense. Subsequent to acquisition, valuations are periodically performed, and the assets are carried at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated cost to sell. Fair value is determined through external appraisals, current letters of intent, broker price opinions or executed agreements of sale, unless management determines that conditions exist that warrant an adjustment to the value. Costs relating to the development and improvement of the OREO properties may be capitalized; holding period costs and any subsequent changes to the valuation allowance are charged to expense as incurred.
Income Taxes
The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in an entity’s financial statements or tax returns. Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in FNCB’s consolidated financial statements or tax returns. Fluctuations in the actual outcome of these future tax consequences could impact our consolidated financial condition or results of operations.
FNCB records an income tax provision or benefit based on the amount of tax currently payable or receivable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting purposes. Management conducts quarterly assessments of all available positive and negative evidence to determine the amount of deferred tax assets that will more likely than not be realized. FNCB establishes a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets and records a charge to income if management determines, based on available evidence at the time the determination is made, that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, management considers past operating results, estimates of future taxable income based on approved business plans, future capital requirements and ongoing tax planning strategies. This evaluation process involves significant management judgment about assumptions that are subject to change from period to period depending on the related circumstances. The recognition of deferred tax assets requires management to make significant assumptions and judgments about future earnings, the periods in which items will impact taxable income, future corporate tax rates, and the application of inherently complex tax laws. The use of different estimates can result in changes in the amounts of deferred tax items recognized, which may result in equity and earnings volatility because such changes are reported in current period earnings. Management’s evaluation as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 concluded that no valuation allowance was necessary for net deferred tax assets.
In connection with determining the income tax provision or benefit, management considers maintaining liabilities for uncertain tax positions and tax strategies that it believes contain an element of uncertainty. Periodically, management evaluates each of FNCB’s tax positions and strategies to determine whether a liability for uncertain tax benefits is required. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, management determined that FNCB did not have any uncertain tax positions or tax strategies and that no liability was required to be recorded.
See Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 10, “Income Taxes” of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about the accounting for income taxes.
New Authoritative Accounting Guidance and Accounting Guidance to be Adopted in Future Periods
For information regarding new authoritative accounting guidance adopted by FNCB during the year ended December 31, 2021 and accounting guidance that FNCB will adopt in future periods, see Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
The following overview should be read in conjunction with this MD&A in its entirety.
Results of Operations
FNCB exhibited strong earnings performance in 2021, consistent with our mission to provide a simply better banking experience to our customers, while adapting to changing market demands. Net income in amounted to $21.4 million, or $1.06 per diluted common share, an increase of $6.0 million, or 39.3%, compared to $15.3 million, or $0.76 per diluted common share, in 2020. The increase in 2021 net income compared to 2020 was primarily attributable to increases in net interest income and a decrease in the provision for loan and lease losses. These positive factors were partially offset by a decrease in non-interest income and an increase in non-interest expense. Net interest income was $49.0 million in 2021, an increase of $8.8 million, or 21.9%, from $40.2 million in 2020, which resulted from a $5.4 million, or 11.6%, increase in total interest income and a $3.4 million, or 56.1% reduction in total interest expense. The increase in interest income was driven by strong earning asset growth, while the reduction in interest expense was largely due to a significant reduction in funding costs. Interest income in 2021 was also favorably impacted by a $3.6 million increase in net loan origination fees associated with PPP loans that were recognized upon forgiveness. The provision for loan and lease losses decreased $1.8 million to $166 thousand in 2021, from $1.9 million in 2020. The elevated amount of credit provisioning in 2020 was in response to uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 global pandemic. Non-interest income decreased $982 thousand, or 10.6%, to $8.3 million in 2021 from $9.2 million in 2020. The year over year decrease in non-interest income largely reflected decreases in net gains on equity securities, net gains on the sales of available-for-sale debt securities and mortgage loans held for sale, partially offset by increases in deposit service charges, higher income from bank-owned life insurance and loan referral fees/interest rate swap revenue. Non-interest expense increased $2.2 million, or 7.4%, to $31.1 million in 2021 from $28.9 million in 2020, which primarily reflected higher salaries and employee benefits, data processing costs, regulatory assessments and bank shares tax, partially offset by decreases in occupancy, equipment and professional fee expenses. Income tax expense increased $1.4 million, or 44.4%, to $4.6 million in 2021 as compared to $3.2 million in 2020.
Return on average assets and return on average shareholders’ equity equaled 1.36% and 13.46%, respectively, in 2021, compared to 1.13% and 10.66%, respectively, in 2020. FNCB paid dividends to holders of common stock of $0.27 per share in 2021, an increase of $0.05 per share, or 22.7%, compared to $0.22 per share in 2020. Total dividends declared and paid in 2021 equated to a dividend yield of approximately 2.92% based on the closing stock price of $9.24 per share on December 31, 2021. The dividend payout ratio was 25.4% in 2021 compared to 29.0% in 2020.
Balance Sheet Profile
Total assets increased $198.6 million, or 13.6%, to $1.664 billion at December 31, 2021 from $1.465 billion at December 31, 2020. The balance sheet expansion primarily reflected substantial increases in available-for-sale debt securities, and loans and leases, net of deferred origination fees and unearned income. Available-for-sale debt securities increased $172.5 million, or 49.3%, to $522.6 million at December 31, 2021 from $350.0 million at December 31, 2020. Loans and leases, net of net deferred origination fees and unearned income, increased $78.3 million, or 8.7%, to $979.4 million at December 31, 2021 from $901.1 million at December 31, 2020 Excluding activity related to the origination and forgiveness of PPP loans, loans and leases, net of net deferred origination fees, increased $133.4 million, or 16.2%. Cash and cash equivalents decreased $56.8 million, or 36.4%, to $99.0 million at December 31, 2021 from $155.8 million at December 31, 2020, as excess liquidity was redeployed to the loan and investment portfolios. Total deposits increased $167.6 million, or 13.0%, to $1.455 billion at December 31, 2021 from $1.287 billion at December 31, 2020. Borrowed funds increased $20.0 million, or 194%, to $30.3 million at December 31, 2021, compared to $10.3 million at December 31, 2020. The increase in borrowed funds reflected the transition of $20.0 million that was part of a cash flow hedge from brokered time deposits to advances through the Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") of Pittsburgh.
Total shareholders’ equity increased $6.6 million, or 4.2%, to $162.5 million at December 31, 2021 from $155.9 million at December 31, 2020. Contributing to the increase in capital was net income in 2021 of $21.4 million partially offset by a $7.5 million decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income related primarily to depreciation in the fair value of available-for-sale debt securities, net of deferred taxes, and year-to-date dividends declared and paid of $5.4 million. The repurchase of 330,759 common shares under the board-authorized 2021 stock repurchase program also reduced shareholder's equity by $2.4 million. At December 31, 2021, FNCB Bank’s total risk-based capital ratio and the Tier 1 leverage ratio were 14.64% and 8.92%, respectively, which exceeded the 10.00% and 5.00% required to be well capitalized under the prompt corrective action provisions of the Basel III capital framework for U.S. banking organizations. FNCB's tangible book value improved $0.43 per share, or 5.6%, to $8.13 per share at December 31, 2021 from $7.70 per share at December 31, 2020.
Management’s Focus in 2021
COVID-19 Considerations
Management continued to navigate and respond to the many challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, with prioritizing the health and safety of FNCB's customers and employees at the forefront. Throughout 2021, FNCB operated under its pandemic preparedness plan and continued to manage the many challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. FNCB continues to follow CDC and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania guidance and take additional precautions to ensure the safety of its customers and its employees. As of the date of this report, FNCB branches are open and are fully operational with lobbies open for consumer traffic.Widespread availability and distribution of vaccines, including boosters, has led to improved economic growth across the United States and more specifically within our market area. However, lingering effects from the COVID-19 pandemic, including the effects of the Delta and Omicron variants, and the potential for additional variants, continue to adversely impact employment markets and supply-chains affecting national, regional and local economies, which has resulted in pronounced price inflation in 2021 and continuing into 2022.
Additionally, FNCB focused on originating PPP loans under the second round of funding, in addition to assisting customers through the loan forgiveness process. In 2020, FNCB implemented a digital, cloud-based management tool to facilitate the entire PPP loan origination and forgiveness process, providing customers with direct access to educational materials and the ability to easily upload required documents. FNCB's response to the second round of funding resulted in the origination of 679 PPP loans totaling $76.3 million in 2021. FNCB received $3.6 million in related loan origination fees associated with this second round of originations, which was deferred and is being recognized upon forgiveness or repayment. During the year ended December 31, 2021, FNCB received forgiveness for PPP loans totaling $130.3 million and recognized $4.8 million in net PPP loans origination fees, which is included in interest income in the consolidated statements of income. At December 31, 2021, FNCB had PPP loans still outstanding of $20.9 million, net of $1.0 million in net deferred origination fees, compared to $76.0 million, net of $2.6 million in net deferred origination fees at December 31, 2020.
Regarding our banking operations, commercial activity within our market area, while improving , remains volatile and has not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Economic restrictions adopted in 2020, caused many borrowers to request payment deferrals and other payment accommodations. As of December 31, 2021, all borrowers that previously received payment accommodations have resumed making contractual principal and interest payments. While positive developments have occurred, management is keenly aware that uncertainty regarding the pandemic may still exist. Additionally, FNCB's commercial customer base includes businesses in industries such as automobile, hotel/lodging, restaurants, hospitality, and retail and commercial real estate, all of which has been significantly and adversely impacted in 2021 and 2020 by economic restrictions and employment and supply-chain constraints related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Management continues to closely monitor customers within these industries as the economic recovery continues to unfold.
Management expects the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as certain provisions of legislative and regulatory relief efforts, to continue to impact FNCB's operations. At this time, management cannot determine or estimate the full magnitude of the impact and cannot provide any assurances as to the effect on FNCB's results of operations or financial position. The FNCB team will continue to work diligently to address any issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic in a safe and sound manner as they arise. Management believes that FNCB's balance sheet and capital position are strong and will allow FNCB to withstand any further challenges that may be presented.
General Banking Operations
Outside of navigating the challenges of the pandemic, during 2021, management focused several key strategic initiatives including: enhancing future net interest income run rates through the redeployment of excess liquidity into the investment and loan portfolios and effectively managing funding costs; improving the customer experience by further expanding and enhancing FNCB's digital and traditional product and service offerings; continuing to create efficiency within FNCB's branch network and delivery channels; and investing in strategic business alliances and opportunities to advance financial performance over the long-term.
In the fourth quarter of 2021, management expanded FNCB's commercial credit product offerings to include commercial equipment financing, through direct finance leases, tax-free municipal leases and simple interest loans. FNCB hired a team of professionals highly-experienced with this type of financing to launch this new product line, which are doing business under the name 1st Equipment Finance and operating out of FNCB's community office located in Exeter, Luzerne County. Pennsylvania. The new product line officially launched on November 1, 2022. Originations for the remainder of the year were in line with budget expectations. As of December 31, 2021 gross loans and municipal leases originated under this initiative were $9.8 million. FNCB expects to originate approximately $50.0 million annually under this product line.
Management regularly evaluates FNCB's branch network and delivery channels for opportunities to improve customer reach or consolidate underutilized locations. With customer banking preferences rapidly evolving to a digital-based approach, management decided to consolidate FNCB's Dunmore-Wheeler community office in its state-of-the-art, recently constructed Main Office, which were located within a mile of each other. On December 16, 2021, FNCB received regulatory approval for the consolidation. The consolidation, which was completed on February 18, 2022, had minimal impact to customers and is expected to reduce operating expense run rates going forward by approximately $230 thousand annually.
Focus for 2022
Looking ahead to 2022, FNCB will focus on expanding its comprehensive digital strategy to respond to evolving customer demands and create operational and delivery channel efficiencies. Specific initiatives include enhancement to the existing online banking platforms, integration of a new commercial lending origination platform and utilizing artificial intelligence and robotics to streamline workflows. Additional areas of focus for 2022 include: outsourcing the origination and underwriting of residential mortgage loans through a third party to create efficiencies and improve customer service; building and strengthening our core customer base including increasing existing customer wallet share; and continuing to assist business customers through the PPP loan forgiveness process as well as seeking opportunities to provide for the future banking needs of these customers. In 2022, FNCB expects to benefit from the recognition of approximately $1.0 million in remaining net loan origination fees from the outstanding PPP loans.
Furthermore, in response to a recent increase in inflation, the Federal Open Market Committee ('FOMC") has indicated a potential tightening of monetary policy, including several increases in the federal funds target rate in 2022. With the anticipated increase in market interest rates, management will focus on balance sheet management, controlling funding costs and continuing to evaluate opportunities to enhance net interest income and non-interest income run rates going forward.
Stock Repurchase Program/Subsequent Event
On January 26, 2022, FNCB's Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program under which up to 750,000 shares of FNCB's outstanding common stock may be acquired in the open market commencing no earlier than March 4, 2022 and expiring December 31, 2022 pursuant to a trading plan that may be adopted in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In 2021, the Board of Directors had authorized a similar program under which 330,759 common shares were repurchased. The 2021 plan expired on December 31, 2021. The repurchase of shares under the programs are administered through an independent broker. Repurchases may occur from time to time at prevailing market prices, through open market transactions depending upon market conditions, and are subject to SEC regulations as well as certain price, market volume and timing constraints specified in the trading plan. Under the program, the purchases will be funded from working capital presently available to FNCB, and the repurchased shares will be returned to the status of authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock. There is not a guarantee as to the exact number of shares that will be repurchased by FNCB, and FNCB may discontinue purchases at any time that management determines additional repurchases are no longer warranted. As of December 31, 2021, FNCB had approximately 20.0 million shares outstanding.
SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
Net Interest Income
Net interest income is the difference between (i) interest income, interest and fees on interest-earning assets, and (ii) interest expense, interest paid on deposits and borrowed funds. Net interest income represents the largest component of FNCB’s operating income and, as such, is the primary determinant of profitability. Net interest income is impacted by variations in the volume, rate and composition of earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, changes in general market rates and the level of non-performing assets. Interest income is shown on a fully tax-equivalent basis using the corporate statutory tax rate of 21.0% in 2021, 2020 and 2019.
In 2020, in response to economic fallout from the global pandemic, the Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) reduced the federal funds target rate a total of 150 basis points in two emergency actions: a 50-basis point decrease on March 3, 2020 followed by another 100 basis point decrease on March 16, 2020. The federal funds target rate remained at 0.00% to 0.25% from this point through the remainder of 2020 and 2021. These actions resulted in a corresponding decrease in the national prime rate to 3.25% at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. Despite the decreases, FNCB experienced an increase in yields on taxable loans throughout 2021, compared to 2020. Origination and funding of low-yielding PPP loans with a rate of 1.0%, were offset by the recognition of net origination fees associated with a portion of these loans that were forgiven by the SBA. The Bank remained competitive in deposit rate offerings, parallel to market conditions and a surplus of liquidity within the industry. As a result, FNCB experienced a decrease in funding costs across interest-bearing deposits.
Tax-equivalent net interest income increased $8.9 million, or 21.8%, to $49.9 million in 2021 compared to $41.0 million in 2020. The increase in tax-equivalent net interest income was due to an increase in tax-equivalent interest income due primarily to higher earning asset volumes coupled with a decrease in interest expense due primarily to a reduction in funding costs. Additionally, net interest income was favorably impacted by an increase in net loan origination fees recognized on forgiven PPP loans of $3.6 million to $4.8 million in 2021 compared to $1.2 million in 2020. Tax-equivalent net interest margin, a key measurement used in the banking industry to measure income from earning assets relative to the cost to fund those assets, is calculated by dividing tax-equivalent net interest income by average interest-earning assets. FNCB's tax-equivalent net interest margin improved 10 basis points to 3.45% in 2021 compared to 3.35% in 2020. Additionally, rate spread, the difference between the average yield on interest-earning assets shown on a fully tax-equivalent basis and the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities, increased 17 basis points to 3.38% in 2021 compared to 3.21% in 2020.
Tax-equivalent interest income increased $5.5 million, or 11.6%, to $52.6 million in 2021 from $47.1 million in 2020, which reflected higher volumes of average earning assets and higher loan yields, partially offset by a decrease in investment yields. Average earning assets increased $226.2 million, or 18.5%, to $1.449 billion in 2021 from $1.223 billion in 2020, resulting in a corresponding increase to tax-equivalent interest income of $6.1 million. Specifically, average loans increased $39.1 million, or 4.3%, to $950.4 million in 2021 from $911.4 million in 2020, which reflected strong organic loan demand and the purchase of loan pools from third party originators. Investment securities averaged $429.6 million in 2021, an increase of $127.4 million, or 42.1%, compared to $302.2 million in 2020. FNCB's tax-equivalent yield on loans increased 18 basis points to 4.36% in 2021 compared to 4.18% in 2020, resulting in a corresponding increase in tax-equivalent interest income of $1.7 million. The impact on changes in loan volumes and rates largely reflected the origination of PPP loans. PPP loans, which carry an interest rate of 1.00%, averaged $76.4 million in 2021. Including amortization of net origination fees associated with PPP loans of $4.8 million, the yield on PPP loans was 7.18% in 2021, compared to 2.61% in 2020. Partially counteracting these positive factors, was a decrease in the tax-equivalent yield on investment securities which decreased 41 basis points to 2.59% in 2021 from 3.00% in 2020 and caused a corresponding decrease to tax-equivalent interest income of $2.1 million. The tax-equivalent yield on average interest-bearing deposits decreased 17 basis points to 0.13% in 2021 from 0.30% in 2020, resulting in a $219 thousand decrease in tax equivalent interest income, which was more than entirely offset by the $59.7 million, or 649.0%, increase in volume to $68.9 million in 2021 from $9.2 million in 2020.
The low interest rate environment and continued oversupply of deposits in the market resulted in a further reduction in the cost of funds. As a result, interest expense decreased $3.5 million, or 56.1%, to $2.7 million in 2021 from $6.2 million in 2020. Specifically, rates paid on interest-bearing deposits decreased 36 basis points to 0.24% in 2021 from 0.59% in 2020, resulting in a corresponding decrease to interest expense of $3.3 million. The decrease in interest expense due to changes in deposit rates was concentrated in rates paid on interest-bearing demand deposits and time deposits. The rate paid on interest-bearing demand deposits, decreased 32 basis points to 0.16% in 2021 as compared to 0.48% in 2020. In addition, the rate paid on time deposits decreased 55 basis points to 0.66% in 2021, compared to 1.22% in 2020. The reduction in rates paid on interest-bearing demand deposits and time deposits resulted in corresponding reductions to interest expense due to changes in rates of $2.3 million and $1.0 million, respectively. The rate paid on savings deposits decreased only 3 basis points to 0.07% in 2021 compared to 0.10% in 2020 and had minimal impact on interest expense. Also contributing to the decrease to interest expense was a $39.1 million, or 76.2%, decrease in the average balance of other borrowed funds to $12.2 million in 2021 from $51.3 million in 2020, which led to a corresponding decrease in interest expense of $623 thousand. Partially offsetting this decrease, was a 14-basis point increase in the rate paid on borrowed funds to 1.61% in 2021 from 1.47% in 2020, which resulted in a corresponding increase in interest expense of $64 thousand. While FNCB experienced significant deposit growth, changes in average volumes of interest-bearing deposits resulted in only a negligible increase to interest expense, as much of the growth was concentrated in low-costing interest-bearing demand deposits. Additionally, FNCB continued to experience deposit migration as higher-costing time deposits migrated to non-maturity deposits at the end of their term. Total average interest-bearing deposits increased $157.6 million, or 17.3%, to $1.066 billion in 2021 from $908.5 million in 2020, which resulted in a $409 thousand corresponding increase in interest expense. The average balance of time deposits decreased $18.9 million, or 9.7%, to $176.2 million in 2021 from $195.1 million in 2020, which resulted in a corresponding decrease to interest expense of $212 thousand that was more than entirely offset by an increase to interest expense of $602 thousand due to a $153.3 million, or 25.1%, increase in average interest-bearing demand deposits to $764.8 million in 2021 from $611.5 million in 2020. Additionally, FNCB experienced strong demand for its non-interest-bearing deposit products as average non-interest-bearing demand deposits increased $73.2 million, or 30.2%, to $315.2 million in 2021 from $242.0 million in 2020.
Non-accrual loans
The interest income that would have been earned on non-accrual and restructured loans, had these loans performed in accordance with their original terms approximated to $215 thousand and $353 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Additionally, interest income recognized on impaired loans based on payments received approximated to $305 thousand and $351 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
The following table presents the components of net interest income for the three years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
Summary of Net Interest Income
For the Year Ended December 31,
Average
Yield/
Average
Yield/
Average
Yield/
(dollars in thousands)
Balance
Interest
Cost
Balance
Interest
Cost
Balance
Interest
Cost
Assets:
Earning assets (2)(3)
Loans and leases-taxable (4)
$ 905,237
$ 39,645
4.38 %
$ 863,702
$ 35,980
4.17 %
$ 784,124
$ 36,332
4.63 %
Loans and leases-tax free (4)
45,217
1,777
3.93
47,669
2,070
4.34
45,246
1,881
4.16
Total loans and leases (1)(2)
950,454
41,422
4.36
911,371
38,050
4.18
829,370
38,213
4.61
Securities-taxable
346,204
8,476
2.45
250,881
7,322
2.92
274,739
7,901
2.88
Securities-tax free
83,437
2,641
3.17
51,367
1,738
3.38
4,618
4.09
Total securities (1)(5)
429,641
11,117
2.59
302,248
9,060
3.00
279,357
8,090
2.90
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks and federal funds sold (8)
68,932
0.13
9,203
0.30
7,910
2.38
Total earning assets (8)
1,449,027
52,627
3.63 %
1,222,822
47,138
3.85 %
1,116,637
46,491
4.16 %
Non-earning assets (8)
129,386
145,227
101,273
Allowance for loan and lease losses
(12,311 )
(10,867 )
(9,359 )
Total assets
$ 1,566,102
$ 1,357,182
$ 1,208,551
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity:
Interest-bearing liabilities
Interest-bearing demand deposits
$ 764,798
1,252
0.16 %
$ 611,511
2,933
0.48 %
$ 513,542
4,167
0.81 %
Savings deposits
125,022
0.07 %
101,847
0.10
93,114
0.13
Time deposits
176,245
1,169
0.66 %
195,140
2,374
1.22
238,145
3,810
1.60
Total interest-bearing deposits
1,066,065
2,508
0.24 %
908,498
5,404
0.59
844,801
8,101
0.96
Borrowed funds and other interest-bearing liabilities
12,228
1.61
51,287
1.47
63,640
1,695
2.66
Total interest-bearing liabilities
1,078,293
2,705
0.25 %
959,785
6,160
0.64 %
908,441
9,796
1.08 %
Demand deposits
315,181
242,017
164,035
Other liabilities
13,892
11,368
11,395
Shareholders' equity
158,736
144,012
124,680
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
$ 1,566,102
$ 1,357,182
$ 1,208,551
Net interest income/interest rate spread (6) (8)
49,922
3.38 %
40,978
3.21 %
36,695
3.08 %
Tax equivalent adjustment
(928 )
(800 )
(435 )
Net interest income as reported
$ 48,994
$ 40,178
$ 36,260
Net interest margin (7) (8)
3.45 %
3.35 %
3.29 %
(1)
Interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a 21% rate.
(2)
Loans are stated net of unearned income.
(3)
Non-accrual loans are included in loans within earning assets.
(4)
Interest income on loans includes net loan fees of $4,612 in 2021, $467 in 2020, and net loan costs of $1,467 in 2019 .
(5)
The yields for securities that are classified as available for sale are based on the average historical amortized cost.
(6) Interest rate spread represents the difference between the average yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities and is presented on a tax equivalent basis.
(7)
Net interest income as a percentage of total average interest earning assets.
(8)
Information for 2019 includes revisions to average balances to reclassify certain average deposits in other banks from interest-bearing deposits in other banks to non-earning assets in the amount of $4,794.
The most significant impact on net income between periods is derived from the interaction of changes in the volume and rates earned or paid on interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. The volume of earning assets, specifically loans and investments, compared to the volume of interest-bearing liabilities represented by deposits and borrowings, combined with the spread, produces the changes in net interest income between periods.
The following table summarizes the effect that changes in volumes of earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and the interest rates earned and paid on these assets and liabilities have on net interest income. The net change or mix component attributable to the combined impact of rate and volume changes has been allocated proportionately to the change due to volume and the change due to rate.
Rate Volume Analysis
For the Year Ended December 31,
2021 vs. 2020
2020 vs. 2019
Increase (Decrease) Due to Change in
Increase (Decrease) Due to Change in
(in thousands)
Volume
Rate
Total
Volume
Rate
Total
Interest income:
Loans and leases-taxable
$ 1,773
$ 1,892
$ 3,665
$ 3,501
$ (3,853 )
$ (352 )
Loans and leases-tax free
(110 )
(183 )
(293 )
Total loans and leases
1,663
1,709
3,372
3,604
(3,767 )
(163 )
Securities-taxable
3,097
(1,943 )
1,154
(695 )
(579 )
Securities-tax free
1,022
(119 )
1,587
(38 )
1,549
Total securities
4,119
(2,062 )
2,057
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks and federal funds sold
(219 )
(195 )
(160 )
Total interest income
6,061
(572 )
5,489
4,531
(3,884 )
Interest expense:
Interest-bearing demand deposits
(2,283 )
(1,681 )
(1,926 )
(1,234 )
Savings deposits
(29 )
(10 )
(38 )
(27 )
Time deposits
(212 )
(993 )
(1,205 )
(617 )
(819 )
(1,436 )
Total interest-bearing deposits
(3,305 )
(2,896 )
(2,783 )
(2,697 )
Borrowed funds and other interest-bearing liabilities
(623 )
(559 )
(284 )
(655 )
(939 )
Total interest expense
(214 )
(3,241 )
(3,455 )
(198 )
(3,438 )
(3,636 )
Net interest income
$ 6,275
$ 2,669
$ 8,944
$ 4,729
$ (446 )
$ 4,283
Provision for Loan and Lease Losses
The provision for loan and lease losses is an expense charged against net interest income to provide for probable losses attributable to uncollectible loans and is based on management’s analysis of the adequacy of the ALLL. A credit to loan and lease losses reflects the reversal of amounts previously charged to the ALLL. Management closely monitors the loan portfolio and the adequacy of the ALLL by considering the underlying financial performance of the borrower, collateral values and associated credit risks. Future material adjustments may be necessary to the provision for loan and lease losses and the ALLL if economic conditions or loan performance differ substantially from the assumptions management considered in its evaluation of the ALLL.
FNCB recorded a provision for loan and lease losses of $166 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2021, a decrease of $1.8 million, or 91.5%, compared to $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The elevated amount credit provisioning in 2020 was primarily related to the economic disruption and uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as management took into consideration the potential adverse impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on economic conditions, at the time, in its application of FNCB's methodology on the allowance for loan and lease losses. Specifically, management tried to address this adverse impact by adjusting the qualitative factor associated with changes in national, local and business economic conditions and developments. In addition, management increased the unallocated portion of the ALLL to a maximum of 10.0% of the total allowance. Both actions resulted in higher credit provisioning during the year ended December 31, 2020.
Non-Interest Income
The following table presents the components of non-interest income for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Components of Non-Interest Income
Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Deposit service charges
$ 3,877
$ 3,252
Net gain on the sale of available-for-sale debt securities
1,528
Net gain on equity securities
1,171
Net gain on the sale of mortgage loans held for sale
Net gain on the sale of other real estate owned
-
Loan-related fees
Income from bank-owned life insurance
Bank-owned life insurance settlement
-
Loan referral fees
Merchant services revenue
Other
1,092
Total non-interest income
$ 8,268
$ 9,250
For the year ended December 31, 2021, non-interest income decreased $1.0 million to $8.3 million compared to $9.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The 10.6% decrease in non-interest income primarily reflected decreases in net gains on the sale of available-for-sale debt securities, net gains on equity securities, net gains on the sale of mortgage loans held for sale, and loan referral fees, partially offset by increases in deposit services charges and a settlement received on a bank-owned life insurance policy. Net gains on the sale of available-for-sale debt securities decreased to $213 thousand in 2021, compared to $1.5 million in 2020, while net gains on equity securities that decreased $470 thousand, to $701 thousand in 2021, from $1.2 million in 2020. Net gains on equity securities in 2020 included a $1.1 thousand gain recognized on FNCB's investment in the common stock of a privately held bank holding company as part of the completion of a merger and acquisition. Also contributing to the lower level of non-interest income were decreases in the net gains realized on the sale of mortgage loans held for sale. As part of an asset/liability management initiative to enhance future interest income run rates, management elected to hold higher-quality saleable mortgage loans in the loan portfolio. This initiative contributed to a $301 thousand, or 46.1%, decrease in net gains on the sale of mortgages held for sale to $352 thousand in 2021, compared to $653 thousand in 2020. Loan referral fees decreased $318 thousand, or 81.5%, to $72 thousand in 2021 from $390 thousand in 2020. Loan referral fees include fees received from third-party counterparties related to various commercial loan interest rate swap transactions and fees received for the referral of FHA residential mortgage loans to a third-party broker. The decrease in these fees reflected a reduction in the number and volume of such transactions in 2021 as compared to 2020. Partially offsetting the decreases to non-interest income was a $625 thousand, or 19.2%, increase in deposit service charges, resulting primarily from an increase in debit card usage. FNCB also received a $426 thousand settlement from bank-owned life insurance death benefit, that was recognized in 2021 and recorded in other non-interest income.
Non-Interest Expense
The following table presents the major components of non-interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Components of Non-Interest Expense
Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Salaries and employee benefits
$ 16,697
$ 15,246
Occupancy expense
2,039
2,052
Equipment expense
1,338
1,477
Advertising expense
Data processing expense
3,689
2,933
Regulatory assessments
Bank shares tax
Professional fees
Other operating expenses
4,336
4,350
Total non-interest expense
$ 31,069
$ 28,915
Non-interest expense totaled $31.1 million in 2021, an increase of $2.2 million, or 7.5%, from $28.9 million in 2020. The increase resulted primarily from increases in salaries and employee benefits, data processing expenses, regulatory assessments and bank shares tax. Partially offsetting these increases were decreases in occupancy costs, equipment expenses and professional fee expenses.
Salaries and employee benefits increased $1.5 million, or 9.5%, to $16.7 million in 2021 from $15.2 million in 2020. The increase in salaries and employee benefits was primarily due to higher full-time salaries, payroll taxes and benefits associated with staff additions, including the onboarding of the 1st Equipment Financing team of professionals. Also factoring into the increase in salaries and employee benefits were increases in employment retirement plan contributions and incentive pay. Data processing expenses increased $756 thousand, or 25.8%, to $3.7 million in 2021, compared to $2.9 million in 2020, resulting from additional costs associated with a remote work environment, enhancements made to FNCB's digital banking services, including cybersecurity protection, and higher software costs. Regulatory assessments increased $222 thousand, or 57.4%, to $609 thousand in 2021 from $387 thousand in 2020, which reflected the utilization of the remaining FDIC small bank assessment credit in 2020. Bank shares tax also increased in 2021, to $975 thousand, up $189 thousand, or 24.1%, from $786 thousand recorded at December 31, 2020, due to an increase in capital at the Bank level.
These increases were slightly offset by the decreases in professional fees and equipment expense. Professional fees decreased $325 thousand, or 32.5%, to $674 thousand in 2021 from $999 thousand in 2020. Equipment expenses decreased $139 thousand, or 9.4%, to $1.3 million in 2021, compared to $1.5 million in 2020. The reduction in professional fees in 2021 was largely due to the expiration of a revenue-share agreement with a third-party consultant, while the decrease in equipment expenses was primarily due to a decrease in depreciation related to office and computer equipment.
Other operating expenses of $4.3 million in 2021 included $300 thousand in losses associated with the transfer of two bank-owned properties to other real estate owned. As part of management's ongoing initiative to optimize its branch network, on December 16, 2021, FNCB received regulatory approval to consolidate a community office located in the Borough of Dunmore, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania with its main office located in the same Borough. The consolidation is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2022 and is expected to generate annual operating cost savings of approximately $230 thousand. Additionally, with the continuing evolution of digital banking and declining utilization of brick-and-mortar branches, management entered into a sales agreement to sell land located in Lackawanna County that FNCB was holding for future branch expansion.
Provision for Income Taxes
FNCB recorded income tax expense of $4.6 million in 2021, an increase of $1.4 million, or 44.4%, compared to $3.2 million in 2020. The increase in income tax expense was due to higher taxable income in 2021 as compared to 2020.
Management evaluates the carrying amount of its deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis, or more frequently, as necessary, in accordance with guidance set forth in ASC Topic 740 “Income Taxes,” and applies the criteria in the guidance to determine whether it is more likely than not that some portion, or all, of the deferred tax asset will not be realized within its life cycle, based on the weight of available evidence. If management determines based on available evidence, both positive and negative, that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized in future periods, a valuation allowance is calculated and recorded. These determinations are inherently subjective and depend upon management’s estimates and judgments used in their evaluation of both positive and negative evidence.
In evaluating available evidence, management considers, among other factors, historical financial performance, expectation of future earnings, the ability to carry back losses to recoup taxes previously paid, length of statutory carry forward periods, experience with operating loss and tax credit carry forwards not expiring unused, tax planning strategies and timing of reversals of temporary differences. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, management carefully weighs both positive and negative evidence currently available.
Management performed an evaluation of FNCB ’s deferred tax assets at December 31, 2021 taking into consideration both positive and negative evidence as of that date. Based on this evaluation, management believes that FNCB's future taxable income will be sufficient to utilize deferred tax assets. Accordingly, management concluded that no valuation allowance for deferred tax assets was required at December 31, 2021 or 2020.
FINANCIAL CONDITION
Total assets were $1.664 billion at December 31, 2021, an increase of $198.6 million, or 13.6%, from $1.465 billion at December 31, 2020. The increase in total assets primarily reflected substantial increases in available-for-sale debt securities, and loans and leases, net of deferred origination fees and unearned income. Available-for-sale debt securities increased $172.5 million, or 49.3%, to $522.6 million at December 31, 2021 from $350.0 million at December 31, 2020. Loans and leases, net of net deferred origination fees and unearned income, increased $78.3 million, or 8.7%, to $979.4 million at December 31, 2021 from $901.1 million at December 31, 2020. Excluding activity related to the origination and forgiveness of PPP loans, loans and leases, net of net deferred origination fees, increased $133.4 million, or 16.2%. The increases in the investment and loan portfolios were funded primarily by deposit growth, as total deposits increased $167.6 million, or 13.0%, to $1.455 billion at December 31, 2021 from $1.287 billion at December 31, 2020. The increase in deposits was primarily attributable to increases in both interest-bearing and non-interest-bearing deposits. Total borrowed funds increased $20.0 million, or 194.0%, to $30.3 million at December 31, 2021, compared to $10.3 million at December 31, 2020. Cash and cash equivalents decreased $56.8 million, or 36.4%, to $99.0 million at December 31, 2021 from $155.8 million at December 31, 2020, as excess liquidity was redeployed to the loan and investment portfolios. FNCB had $20.0 million in borrowings through the Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") of Pittsburgh outstanding at December 31, 2021.
Total shareholders ’ equity increased $6.6 million, or 4.2%, to $162.5 million at December 31, 2021 from $155.9 million at December 31, 2020. Contributing to the increase in capital was net income in 2021 of $21.4 million partially offset by a $7.5 million decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income related primarily to depreciation in the fair value of available-for-sale debt securities, net of deferred taxes, and year-to-date dividends declared and paid of $5.4 million. The repurchase of 330,759 common shares under the board-authorized 2021 stock repurchase program also reduced shareholder's equity by $2.4 million. FNCB's tangible book value was $8.13 per share at December 31, 2021, an increase of $0.43 per share, or 5.6%, from $7.70 per share at December 31, 2020.
Securities
FNCB’s investment securities portfolio provides a source of liquidity needed to meet expected loan demand and interest income to increase profitability. Additionally, the investment securities portfolio is used to meet pledging requirements to secure public deposits and for other purposes. Debt securities are classified as either available-for-sale or held-to-maturity at the time of purchase based on management's intent. Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported as a component of shareholders’ equity in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, while held-to-maturity securities are carried at amortized cost. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, all debt securities were classified as available-for-sale. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are carried at fair value, with gains and losses due to fluctuations in market value included in the consolidated statements of income. Securities with limited marketability and/or restrictions, such as FHLB of Pittsburgh stock, are carried at cost. Decisions to purchase or sell investment securities are based upon management’s current assessment of long- and short-term economic and financial conditions, including the interest rate environment and asset/liability management, liquidity and tax-planning strategies.
At December 31, 2021, the investment portfolio was comprised principally of available-for-sale debt securities including, fixed-rate, taxable and tax-exempt obligations of state and political subdivisions and fixed-rate and floating-rate securities issued by U.S. government or U.S. government-sponsored agencies, which include mortgage-backed securities and residential and commercial collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"). FNCB also holds investments, to a lesser extent, in private CMO's, corporate debt securities, asset-backed securities and U.S. Treasury securities. Additionally, FNCB holds equity investments in the common and preferred stock of certain publicly-traded bank holding companies. Except for U.S. government and government-sponsored agencies, there were no securities of any individual issuer that exceeded 10.0% of shareholders’ equity as of December 31, 2021.
The investment portfolio is predominantly fixed rate in nature. As such, FNCB's debt securities are inherently subject to interest rate risk, defined as the risk that an investment’s value will change due to a change in interest rates, in the spread between two rates and in the shape of the yield curve. U.S. Treasury rates fell significantly in the first quarter of 2020 in response to the outbreak of COVID-19, declaration of a national emergency and economic shutdown in March 2020. U.S. Treasury rates fluctuated slightly but hovered near historic lows for the remainder of 2020. In 2021, longer-term U.S. Treasury rates gradually increased over the course of the year, however short-term rates remained at historic lows throughout most of 2021, before increasing considerably in the fourth quarter due to talk of potential tightening of monetary policy by the FOMC in early 2022. The 10-year Treasury rate, which was 0.93% at December 31, 2020﻿, increased 59 basis points to 1.52% at December 31, 2021, while the 2-year Treasury rate, which was 0.13% at December 31, 2020﻿, increased 15 basis points 0.28% at September 30, 2022 before jumping another 45 basis point to 0.73% at December 31, 2021﻿. Additionally, the spread between the 2-year and 10-year treasury, which was 80 basis points at December 31, 2020, fluctuated throughout 2021 and widened to 158 basis points at March 31, 2021 then gradually narrowed to 79 basis points at December 31, 2021, indicating flattening of the yield curve. Generally, a security's value reacts inversely with changes in interest rates. Due to the increase in rates comparing December 31, 2021 and 2020, FNCB experienced significant depreciation in the fair value of its investment portfolio. FNCB reported a net unrealized holding gain on its investment portfolio of $6.1 million, net of income taxes of $1.6 million at December 31, 2021, compared to a $14.0 million net unrealized holding gain, net of income taxes of $3.7 million, at December 31, 2020. Any further increase in interest rates could result in further depreciation in the fair value of FNCB’s securities portfolio and capital position.
The following table presents the carrying value of available-for-sale debt securities and equity securities, at fair value at December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019:
Composition of the Investment Portfolio
December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Fair Value
% of Portfolio
Fair Value
% of Portfolio
Fair Value
% of Portfolio
Available-for-sale debt securities
U.S. Treasuries
$ 36,355
6.96 %
$ -
- %
$ -
- %
Obligations of state and political subdivisions
244,372
46.76
205,828
58.80
117,763
43.16
U.S. Government-sponsored agency:
Collateralized mortgage obligations - residential
100,710
19.27
56,972
16.28
80,294
29.43
Collateralized mortgage obligations - commercial
3,727
0.71
3,904
1.12
17,723
6.50
Residential mortgage-backed securities
25,506
4.88
13,026
3.72
18,485
6.78
Private Collateralized mortgage obligations
67,165
12.85
38,199
10.91
25,075
9.19
Corporate debt securities
32,063
6.14
24,580
7.02
7,182
2.63
Asset backed securities
11,932
2.28
7,526
2.15
5,621
2.06
Negotiable certificates of deposit
0.14
-
-
0.26
Total available-for-sale debt securities
$ 522,566
100.00 %
$ 350,035
100.00 %
$ 272,839
100.00 %
Equity securities, at fair value
$ 4,922
$ 3,026
$
Management monitors the investment portfolio regularly and adjusts the investment strategy to reflect changes in liquidity needs, asset/liability strategy and tax-planning requirements. The composition of FNCB's investment portfolio shifted in 2020, reflecting the change in its income tax position, as the majority of available NOL carryforwards were consumed in 2020, this resulted in FNCB increasing its holdings of tax-free investments in 2020 and 2021. The yields on tax-exempt obligations of states and political subdivisions are presented on a tax-equivalent basis using the federal corporate income tax rate of 21.0%.
Management continually monitors the investment portfolio for credit worthiness, value, and yield. Semiannually, management engages a third-party consultant to review the municipal portfolio to determine if there is any undue credit risk within the portfolio. As part of the independent review, each security is compared to their Portfolio Credit Benchmark to identify which securities may contain more than a minimal risk of payment default. As of December 31, 2021, the third-party report concluded that each security held within the portfolio met or exceeded the benchmark and that none of the securities required further review. The next third-party review is scheduled for June 30, 2022. Management also monitors municipal securities monthly using a third-party surveillance report that indicates changes in issuer status, credit downgrades, rating changes and other pertinent events.
FNCB sold available-for-sale securities in 2021 with an aggregate amortized cost of $2.8 million and a weighted-average yield of 2.78%. Gross proceeds received on the sales totaled $3.0 million, with net gains of $0.2 million realized upon the sales and included in non-interest income. Given the economic climate during 2021, characterized by historically low interest rates and high liquidity due to the pandemic, FNCB's investment strategy included a focus on yield maintenance and utilizing excess liquidity to purchase investments within the Bank's risk tolerance in order to enhance interest income streams. FNCB purchased 137 securities with an aggregate cost of $224.0 million and a weighted-average yield of 1.63% during the year ended December 31, 2021. Securities purchased were diversified across all major sectors, including $79.2 million in CMOs of U.S. government-sponsored agencies, $36.8 in U.S. Treasury securities, $40.3 million in private CMOs, $27.3 million in taxable obligations of state and political subdivisions, $24.7 million in tax-free obligations of state and political subdivisions, $8.5 million in corporate debt securities, $6.5 million in asset-backed securities and $744 thousand in negotiable certificates of deposit.
The following table presents the weighted-average yields on available-for-sale debt securities by major category and maturity period at December 31, 2021:
December 31, 2021
Within One Year
> 1 - 5 Years
6-10 Years
Over 10 Years
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations, Mortgage-Backed and Asset-Backed Securities
Total
Weighted-average yield
U.S. Treasury
- %
1.11 %
1.18 %
- %
- %
1.17 %
Obligations of state and political subdivisions
2.67
2.95
2.34
2.78
-
2.77
U.S. government/government-sponsored agencies:
Collateralized mortgage obligations - residential
-
-
-
-
1.62
1.62
Collateralized mortgage obligations - commercial
-
-
-
-
1.98
1.98
Mortgage-backed securities
-
-
-
-
2.23
2.33
Private collateralized mortgage obligations
-
-
-
-
2.32
2.32
Corporate debt securities
-
-
4.79
-
-
4.79
Asset-backed securities
-
-
-
-
1.46
1.46
Negotiable certificates of deposit
-
1.02
-
-
-
1.02
Weighted-average yield
2.67 %
2.80 %
2.77 %
2.78 %
1.92 %
2.43 %
OTTI Evaluation
There was no OTTI recognized during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. For additional information regarding management’s evaluation of securities for OTTI, see Note 3, “Securities” of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Management noted no indicators of impairment for the FHLB of Pittsburgh or Atlantic Community Bankers Bank stock at December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019.
Loans and Leases
Total loans and leases, gross increased by $78.1 million, or 8.6%, to $981.4 million at December 31, 2021 from $903.3 million at December 31, 2020. The growth in the loan and lease portfolio primarily reflected increases in residential and commercial real estate loans, and loans to state and political subdivisions. Partially offsetting these increases were reductions in commercial and industrial loans, construction, land acquisition and development loans and consumer loans. With respect to commercial and industrial loans, on January 19, 2021, the SBA fully reopened the loan portal and began accepting applications for a second round of PPP loans through May 31, 2021 when the application period ended and the portal closed. During the first half of 2021, FNCB originated and received funding for 679 PPP loans totaling $76.3 million. FNCB also continued to assist PPP customers in applying for forgiveness. At December 31, 2021, PPP loans outstanding were $21.9 million, a decrease of $54.3 million, compared to $78.6 million at December 31, 2020. In 2021, FNCB received forgiveness on PPP loans of $132.9 million and expects to receive forgiveness for the remaining PPP loans in early 2022. In addition to PPP loan activity, in the fourth quarter of 2021, FNCB expanded its commercial credit product offerings to include commercial equipment financing, including simple interest loans and direct finance and municipal leases. The majority of equipment financing originations under this product line is expected to come through indirect, third-party dealers. As of December 31, 2021, simple interest loans and municipal leases originated under this initiative were $7.9 million and $2.4 million, respectively.
To assist in deploying excess liquidity, enhance interest income and further diversify the loan portfolio, FNCB purchased individual loans and loan pools originated by third-party originators, including $14.3 million in commercial equipment loans, $1.8 million in unsecured commercial loans, and $7.4 million in unsecured personal loans. The pools have relatively short average lives to provide cash flow. Commercial equipment loans are secured by UCCs and titles, while credit enhancement features including reserve funds provide credit protection for the personal and commercial unsecured pools. FNCB has reviewed individual loan files, if feasible, or reviewed a random sample of loan files and credit metrics to ensure underwriting was aligned with FNCB's internal underwriting standards.
Historically, commercial lending activities have represented a significant portion of FNCB’s loan portfolio. Commercial lending includes commercial and industrial loans, including commercial equipment financing and purchased loans, commercial real estate loans, and construction, land acquisition and development loans, and represented 61.2% and 63.3% of total loans at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively. The decrease in commercial lending was largely due to the decreases in commercial and industrial loans, specifically PPP loans, due to loan forgiveness, and construction, land acquisition and development loans. Excluding PPP loans, commercial lending represented 59.0% of total loans at December 31, 2021 compared to 54.6% at December 31, 2020.
From a collateral standpoint, a majority of FNCB’s loan portfolio consists of loans secured by real estate. Real estate secured loans, which include commercial real estate, construction, land acquisition and development, and residential real estate loans increased by $111.8 million, or 21.1%, to $641.8 million at December 31, 2021 from $530.0 million at December 31, 2020. The increase was concentrated in commercial and residential real estate loans. Real estate secured loans represents 65.4% and 58.7% at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.
Commercial real estate loans, which include long-term commercial mortgage financing and are primarily secured by first or second lien mortgages, increased $92.1 million, or 33.6%, to $366.0 million at December 31, 2021, from $273.9 million at December 31, 2020. While, commercial and industrial loans decreased $45.3 million, or 19.0%, during the year to $193.1 million at December 31, 2021 from $238.4 million at December 31, 2020. Commercial and industrial loans consist primarily of equipment loans, including purchased commercial equipment loans, working capital financing, revolving lines of credit and loans secured by cash and marketable securities and PPP loans. Commercial and industrial loans decreased $45.3 million, or 19.0%, to $193.1 million at December 31, 2021 from $238.4 million at December 31, 2020. The decline was largely due to PPP loan forgiveness. Excluding PPP loans, commercial and industrial loans increased $11.1 million, or 7.1%, reflecting an increase in loan demand, loan purchases and the launch of the new equipment financing product line.
Residential real estate loans include fixed-rate and variable-rate, amortizing mortgage loans, home equity term loans and home equity lines of credit ("HELOCs"). FNCB primarily underwrites fixed-rate purchase and refinance of residential mortgage loans for sale in the secondary market to reduce interest rate risk and provide funding for additional loans. Additionally, FNCB offers a “WOW” mortgage product, which is a non-saleable mortgage with maturity terms of 7.5 to 19.5 years, that offers customers an attractive fixed interest rate and low closing costs. Residential real estate loans totaled $234.1 million at December 31, 2021, an increase of $37.8 million, or 19.2%, from $196.3 million at December 31, 2020. In 2021, FNCB experienced strong demand for its proprietary WOW mortgage product, which increased $28.0 million, or 38.5%, to $100.9 million at December 31, 2021 from $72.9 million at December 31, 2020.
Consumer loans totaled $85.5 million at December 31, 2021, a decrease of $0.4 million, or 0.4%, from $85.9 million at December 31, 2020. The reduction in consumer loans was concentrated within the indirect auto loan portfolio, which decreased $7.6 million, or 9.2%, to $74.9 million at December 31, 2021 from $82.5 million at December 31, 2020. The decrease in indirect automobile loans reflected automobile supply-chain constraints for new automobiles, coupled with a reduction in supply of pre-owned automobiles. The purchase of $7.4 million in consumer loan pools partially counteracted the reduction in indirect automobile loans. Loans to state and municipal governments increased $12.1 million, or 24.6%, to $61.1 million at December 31, 2021 from $49.0 million at December 31, 2020.
The following table presents loans receivable, net by major category at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Loan and Lease Portfolio Detail
December 31,
% of Total
% of Total
(in thousands)
Amount
Loans, Gross
Amount
Loans, Gross
Residential real estate
$ 234,113
23.86 %
$ 196,328
21.73 %
Commercial real estate
366,009
37.29
273,903
30.32
Construction, land acquisition and development
41,646
4.24
59,785
6.62
Commercial and industrial
193,086
19.67
238,435
26.39
Consumer
85,522
8.72
85,881
9.51
State and political subdivisions
61,071
6.22
49,009
5.43
Total loans, gross
981,447
100.00 %
903,341
100.00 %
Unearned income
(1,442 )
(110 )
Net deferred loan and lease fees
(566 )
(2,129 )
Allowance for loan and lease losses
(12,416 )
(11,950 )
Loans and leases, net
$ 967,023
$ 889,152
The following tables present the maturity distribution and interest rate information of the loan and lease portfolio by major category as of December 31, 2021:
Loans and Leases by Maturity and Interest Rate Sensitivity
December 31, 2021
Within One
One to Five
Five to Fifteen
Over Fifteen
(in thousands)
Year
Years
Years
Years
Total
Residential real estate
$ 6,630
$ 13,348
$ 112,233
$ 101,902
$ 234,113
Commercial real estate
23,596
54,900
203,205
84,308
366,009
Construction, land acquisition and development
5,336
15,438
5,281
15,591
41,646
Commercial and industrial
63,122
109,857
20,107
-
193,086
Consumer
1,713
58,089
25,148
85,522
State and political subdivisions
8,734
35,834
16,351
61,071
Total loans and leases, gross
$ 100,549
$ 260,366
$ 401,808
$ 218,724
$ 981,447
December 31, 2021
Within One
One to Five
Five to Fifteen
Over Fifteen
(in thousands)
Year
Years
Years
Years
Total
Loans with fixed rates
Residential real estate
$ 1,338
$ 11,607
$ 78,778
$ 84,328
$ 176,051
Commercial real estate
5,778
38,908
18,249
-
62,935
Construction, land acquisition and development
2,428
1,168
3,910
8,092
Commercial and industrial
7,893
101,194
15,367
-
124,454
Consumer
1,647
57,994
25,070
-
84,711
State and political subdivisions
31,821
33,404
Total loans and leases with fixed rates
$ 19,236
$ 211,587
$ 169,871
$ 88,953
$ 489,647
Loans with floating rates
Residential real estate
$ 5,292
$ 1,741
$ 33,455
$ 17,574
$ 58,062
Commercial real estate
17,818
15,992
184,956
84,308
303,074
Construction, land acquisition and development
2,908
14,270
4,695
11,681
33,554
Commercial and industrial
55,229
8,663
4,741
-
68,632
Consumer
State and political subdivisions
-
8,018
4,013
15,636
27,667
Total loans and leases with floating rates
$ 81,313
$ 48,779
$ 231,938
$ 129,771
$ 491,800
Under industry regulations, a concentration is considered to exist when there are loans extended to a multiple number of borrowers engaged in similar activities which would cause them to be similarly impacted by economic or other conditions. Typically, industry guidelines require disclosure of concentrations of loans exceeding 10.0% of total loans outstanding. FNCB had no such concentrations at December 31, 2021 and 2020. In addition to industry guidelines, FNCB’s internal policy considers a concentration to exist in its loan portfolio if an aggregate loan balance outstanding to borrowers within a specific industry exceeds 25.0% of capital. However, management regularly reviews loans in all industry categories to determine if a potential concentration exists.
The following table presents loans by industry, the percentage to gross loans and indicates concentrations greater than 25% of capital at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Loan Concentrations
December 31,
% of Gross
% of Gross
(dollars in thousands)
Amount
Loans
Amount
Loans
Retail space/shopping centers
$ 48,590
4.95 %
$ 43,926
4.86 %
1-4 family residential investment properties
92,745
9.45 %
58,114
6.43 %
Modifications Related to COVID-19
In late March 2020, the federal banking regulators issued guidance encouraging banks to work prudently with and provide short-term payment accommodations to borrowers affected by COVID-19. Additionally, Section 4013 of the CARES Act addressed COVID-19 related modifications and specified that such modifications made on loans that were current as of December 31, 2019 do not need to be classified as TDRs. In 2020, FNCB had applied this guidance and made 922 such modifications, with 843 loans having an aggregate recorded investment of $151.4 million outstanding at December 31, 2020. These initial modifications provided borrowers with a short-term, typically three-month, interest-only period or full payment deferral. FNCB extended a second payment deferral modification for 79 loans with an aggregate recorded investment of $22.0 million. Management closely monitored all loans for which a payment deferral was granted and as of December 31, 2021, there were no loans that were still under deferral.
Asset Quality
Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are stated at the amount of unpaid principal, net of unearned interest, deferred loan fees and costs, and reduced by the ALLL. The ALLL is established through a provision for loan and lease losses charged to earnings.
FNCB has established and consistently applies loan policies and procedures designed to foster sound underwriting and credit monitoring practices. Credit risk is managed through the efforts of loan officers, the Chief Credit Officer, the loan review function, and the Credit Risk Management and the ALLL committees, as well as oversight from the Board of Directors, including the Director's Loan Committee. Management continually evaluates its credit risk management practices to ensure problems in the loan portfolio are addressed in a timely manner, although, as is the case with any financial institution, a certain degree of credit risk is dependent in part on local and general economic conditions that are beyond management’s control.
Under FNCB’s risk rating system, loans that are rated pass, special mention, substandard, doubtful, or loss are reviewed regularly as part of the risk management practices. The Credit Risk Management Committee, which consists of key members of management from the finance, legal, retail lending and credit administration units, meets monthly, or more often as necessary, to review individual problem credits and workout strategies and provides monthly reports to the Director's Loan Committee and full Board of Directors.
A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that FNCB will be unable to collect all amounts due (including principal and interest) according to the contractual terms of the note and loan agreement. For purposes of the analysis, all TDRs, loan relationships with an aggregate outstanding balance greater than $100 thousand rated substandard and non-accrual, and loans that are identified as doubtful or loss are considered impaired. Impaired loans are analyzed individually to determine the amount of impairment. For collateral-dependent loans, impairment is measured based on the fair value of the collateral supporting the loans. A loan is determined to be collateral dependent when repayment of the loan is expected to be provided through the operation or liquidation of the collateral held. For impaired loans that are secured by real estate, management obtains external appraisals annually, or more frequently as warranted, to ascertain a fair value so that the impairment analysis can be updated. Should a current appraisal not be available at the time of impairment analysis, management may use other valuations sources, including current letters of intent, broker price opinions or executed agreements of sale. Under the fair value of collateral method, the impaired amount of the loan is deemed to be the difference between the loan amount and the fair value of the collateral, less the estimated costs to sell. For real estate secured loans, management generally estimates selling costs using a factor of 10%, which is based on typical cost factors, such as a 6% broker commission, 1% transfer taxes, and 3% various other miscellaneous costs associated with the sales process. If the valuation indicates that the fair value has deteriorated below the carrying value of the loan, the difference between the fair value and the principal balance is either charged off or a specific reserve is established. For impaired loans for which the value of the collateral less estimated costs to sell exceeds the loan value, the impairment is determined to be zero. For non-collateral-dependent loans, impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows, net of any deferred fees and costs, discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate.
Loans to borrowers that are experiencing financial difficulty that are modified and result in the granting of concessions to the borrowers are classified as TDRs and are considered to be impaired. Such concessions generally involve an extension of a loan’s stated maturity date, a reduction of the stated interest rate, payment modifications, capitalization of property taxes with respect to mortgage loans or a combination of these modifications. Non-accrual TDRs are returned to accrual status if principal and interest payments, under the modified terms, are brought current, are performing under the modified terms for six consecutive months, and management believes that collection of the remaining interest and principal is probable.
Non-performing loans are monitored on an ongoing basis as part of FNCB’s loan review process. Additionally, work-out for non-performing loans and OREO are actively monitored through the Credit Risk Management Committee. A potential loss on a non-performing asset is generally determined by comparing the outstanding loan balance to the fair market value of the pledged collateral, less estimated cost to sell.
Loans are placed on non-accrual when a loan is specifically determined to be impaired or when management believes that the collection of interest or principal is doubtful. This generally occurs when a default of interest or principal has existed for 90 days or more, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection, or when management becomes aware of facts or circumstances that the loan would default before 90 days. FNCB determines delinquency status based on the number of days since the date of the borrower’s last required contractual loan payment. When the interest accrual is discontinued, all unpaid interest income is reversed and charged back against current earnings. Any subsequent cash payments received are applied, first to the outstanding loan amounts, then to the recovery of any charged-off loan amounts, with any excess treated as a recovery of lost interest. A non-accrual loan is returned to accrual status when the loan is current as to principal and interest payments, is performing according to contractual terms for six consecutive months and future payments are reasonably assured.
The following table presents information about non-performing assets and accruing TDRs as of December 31, for each of the last five years:
Non-performing Assets and Accruing TDRs
December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Non-accrual loans, including non-accrual TDRs
$ 3,863
$ 5,581
$ 9,084
$ 4,696
$ 2,578
Loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing
-
-
-
-
-
Total non-performing loans
3,863
5,581
9,084
4,696
2,578
Other real estate owned
1,023
Other non-performing assets
1,773
1,900
1,900
1,900
1,900
Total non-performing assets
$ 6,556
$ 7,539
$ 11,273
$ 7,515
$ 5,501
Accruing TDRs
$ 6,666
$ 6,975
$ 7,745
$ 8,457
$ 9,299
Non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans, gross
0.39 %
0.62 %
1.10 %
0.56 %
0.34 %
FNCB's asset quality metrics continued to improve throughout 2021. Total non-performing assets decreased $1.0 million, or 13.0%, to $6.5 million at December 31, 2021 from $7.5 million at December 31, 2020. The decrease was due primarily to a decrease in non-accrual loans, partially offset by an increase in OREO. Nonaccrual loans decreased $1.7 million, or 30.8%, to $3.9 million at December 31, 2021 from $5.6 million at December 31, 2020. The reduction in non-accrual loans primarily reflected strong repayment activity and the return of several smaller balance loans to accrual status. FNCB’s ratio of non-performing loans to total gross loans decreased to 0.39% at December 31, 2021 from 0.62% at December 31, 2020. Similarly, FNCB’s ratio of non-performing assets as a percentage of shareholders’ equity decreased to 4.0% at December 31, 2021 from 4.8% at December 31, 2020.
Other non-performing assets at December 31, 2021 and 2020 was comprised solely of a classified account receivable, the balance of which was $1.8 million at December 31, 2021 and $1.9 million at December 31, 2020. The receivable is secured by an evergreen letter of credit that was received in 2011 as part of a settlement agreement for a large construction, land acquisition and development loan for a residential development project in the Pocono region of Monroe County. The agreement provides for payment to FNCB as real estate building lots are sold. The project was stalled due to a decline in real estate values in this area following the financial crisis of 2008. In 2019, economic development in this market area started to improve and management had confirmed that the developer for this project had resumed construction activity, including the completion of substantial infrastructure, and had increased marketing and sales initiatives related to the project. To date, no single-unit lots have been sold, however, the developer completed the construction of a seven-unit building that houses timeshare units and owners began occupying the units in the fourth quarter of 2020. In 2020, management negotiated a repayment plan with the developer. FNCB received the first payment of $127 thousand in the second quarter of 2021. Management continues to closely monitor the project. While the repayment plan has commenced, economic uncertainty and volatility associated with the COVID-19 pandemic are still unknown and could negatively impact the timing of sales and payments.
TDRs at December 31, 2021 and 2020 were $6.9 million and $7.7 million, respectively. Accruing and non-accruing TDRs were $6.7 million and $0.2 million, respectively at December 31, 2021 and $7.0 million and $0.7 million, respectively at December 31, 2020.
There was one loan that was modified as a TDR during the year ended December 31, 2021. The modification involved a commercial and industrial loan that was granted a principal forbearance. The pre- and post-modification recorded investment for this loan was $235 thousand.
There were four loans that were modified as TDRs during the year ended December 31, 2020. There was one residential real estate loan for which the original terms were extended, and three commercial and industrial loans that were each granted a principal forbearance. The residential real estate loan had a pre- and post-modification recorded investment of $93 thousand. The three commercial and industrial loans had an aggregate pre- and post-modification recorded investment of $196 thousand.
The average balance of impaired loans, including TDRs was $11.0 million and $13.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. FNCB recognized interest on impaired loans of $305 thousand in 2021 and $351 thousand in 2020.
The additional interest income that would have been earned on non-accrual and restructured loans had the loans been performing in accordance with their original terms approximated
$215 thousand and $353 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Management actively manages impaired loans in an effort to mitigate loss to FNCB by working with customers to develop strategies to resolve borrower difficulties, through sale or liquidation of collateral, foreclosure, and other appropriate means. In addition, management monitors employment and economic conditions within FNCB’s market area, as weakening of conditions could result in real estate devaluations and an increase in loan delinquencies, which could negatively impact asset quality and cause an increase in the provision for loan and lease losses. Employment conditions in FNCB’s market area, at December 31, 2021 although elevated, improved as compared to December 31, 2020, as the economy re-opened and economic activity increased amid widespread vaccine distribution. The seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate for the Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton metropolitan statistical area, FNCB's primary market area, improved to 6.4% at December 31, 2021, compared to 7.7% at December 2020. Additionally, in response to continuing inflationary pressures, the FOMC has indicated that they will begin tightening monetary policy by increasing short-term interest rates as early as their meeting in March of 2022. Rising interest rates, coupled with elevated unemployment levels, may pose debt service constraints for borrowers with floating-rate loans, which could result in an increase in loan delinquencies and general asset quality deterioration. Management continues to monitor the loan portfolio in light of the any continued effects of the pandemic to proactively addresses any potential impact to the credit quality of FNCB's loan portfolio
For additional information about impaired loans and TDRs, see Note 4, "Loans" of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The following table presents the changes in non-performing loans for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 . Loan foreclosures represent recorded investment at time of foreclosure not including the effect of any guarantees.
Changes in Non-performing Loans
Year ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Balance, January 1
$ 5,581
$ 9,084
Loans newly placed on non-accrual
1,375
2,352
Change in loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing
-
-
Loans transferred to OREO
(138 )
-
Loans returned to performing status
(388 )
(1,573 )
Loans charged-off
(735 )
(1,514 )
Loan payments received
(1,832 )
(2,768 )
Balance, December 31
$ 3,863
$ 5,581
The following table presents accruing loan delinquencies and non-accrual loans as a percentage of gross loans at December 31, 2021 and 2020 :
Loan Delinquencies and Non-accrual Loans
December 31,
Accruing:
30-59 days
0.13 %
0.31 %
60-89 days
0.03
0.06
90+ days
0.00
0.00
Non-accrual
0.39
0.62
Total delinquencies
0.55 %
0.99 %
Total delinquencies as a percent of gross loans decreased to 0.55% at December 31, 2021 from 0.99% at December 31, 2020. The most predominant factor contributing to the decrease in total delinquencies was the $1.7 million decrease in non-accrual loans, along with decreases in the balance of accruing loans past due 30-59 days and 60-89 days.
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses
The ALLL represents management’s estimate of probable loan losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The ALLL is analyzed in accordance with GAAP and is maintained at a level that is based on management’s evaluation of the adequacy of the ALLL in relation to the risks inherent in the loan portfolio.
As part of its evaluation, management considers qualitative and environmental factors, including, but not limited to:
●
changes in national, local, and business economic conditions and developments, including the condition of various market segments;
●
changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio;
●
changes in lending policies and procedures, including underwriting standards, collection, charge-off and recovery practices and results;
●
changes in the experience, ability and depth of lending management and staff;
●
changes in the quality of the loan review system and the degree of oversight by the Board of Directors;
●
changes in the trend of the volume and severity of past due and classified loans, including trends in the volume of non-accrual loans, TDRs and other loan modifications;
●
the existence and effect of any concentrations of credit and changes in the level of such concentrations;
●
the effect of external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated credit losses in the current loan portfolio; and
●
analysis of customers’ credit quality, including knowledge of their operating environment and financial condition.
Evaluations are intrinsically subjective, as the results are estimated based on management knowledge and experience and are subject to interpretation and modification as information becomes available or as future events occur. Management monitors the loan portfolio on an ongoing basis with emphasis on weakness in both the real estate market and the economy in general and its effect on repayment. Adjustments to the ALLL are made based on management’s assessment of the factors noted above.
For purposes of management’s analysis of the ALLL, all loan relationships with an aggregate balance greater than $100 thousand that are rated substandard and non-accrual, identified as doubtful or loss, and all TDRs are considered impaired and are analyzed individually to determine the amount of impairment. Circumstances such as construction delays, declining real estate values, and the inability of the borrowers to make scheduled payments have resulted in these loan relationships being classified as impaired. FNCB utilizes the fair value of collateral method for collateral-dependent loans and TDRs for which repayment depends on the sale of collateral. For non-collateral-dependent loans and TDRs, FNCB measures impairment based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate. With regard to collateral-dependent loans, appraisals are received at least annually to ensure that impairment measurements reflect current market conditions. Should a current appraisal not be available at the time of impairment analysis, other valuation sources including current letters of intent, broker price opinions or executed agreements of sale may be used. Only downward adjustments are made based on these supporting values. Included in all impairment calculations is a cost to sell adjustment of approximately 10%, which is based on typical cost factors, including a 6% broker commission, 1% transfer taxes and 3% various other miscellaneous costs associated with the sales process. Sales costs are periodically reviewed and revised based on actual experience. The ALLL analysis is adjusted for subsequent events that may arise after the end of the reporting period but before the financial reports are filed.
The ALLL equaled $12.4 million at December 31, 2021, an increase of $0.5 million, or 3.9%, from $11.9 million at December 31, 2020. The increase resulted from a provision for loan and lease losses of $166 thousand coupled with net recoveries of $300 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2021. In 2020, Management adjusted the qualitative factors for the potential effect of economic and employment uncertainty and disruption due to the global pandemic into its evaluation.
The ALLL consists of both specific and general components. The component of the ALLL that is related to impaired loans that are individually evaluated for impairment, the guidance for which is provided by ASC 310 “Impairment of a Loan” (“ASC 310”), was $26 thousand, or 0.2%, of the total ALLL at December 31, 2021, compared to $416 thousand, or 3.5%, of the total ALLL at December 31, 2020. A general reserve of $12.4 million was established for loans analyzed collectively under ASC 450 “Contingencies” (“ASC 450”), which represented 99.8% of the total ALLL of $12.4 million at December 31, 2021. Included in the general component of the ALLL were unallocated reserves of $1.1 million, for both years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. Based on its evaluations, management may establish an unallocated component to cover any inherent losses that exist as of the evaluation date, but which may not have been identified under the methodology. In 2020, management increased the unallocated reserve as part of an overall increase in credit provisioning due to the economic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on continued economic uncertainty related to the pandemic, management believes the level of the unallocated reserve continues to be appropriate at December 31, 2021. The ratio of the ALLL to total loans at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 was 1.27% and 1.33%, respectively, based on loans, net of net deferred origination fees and unearned income of $979.4 million and $901.1 million, respectively.
The following table presents an allocation of the ALLL by major loan category and percent of loans in each category to total loans at December 31, for each of the last five years:
Allocation of the ALLL
December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Allowance
Percentage of
Loans in Each
Category to Total
Loans
Allowance
Percentage of
Loans in Each
Category to Total
Loans
Allowance
Percentage of
Loans in Each
Category to Total
Loans
Allowance
Percentage of
Loans in Each
Category to Total
Loans
Allowance
Percentage of Loans in Each Category to Total Loans
Residential real estate
$ 2,081
23.86 %
$ 1,715
21.73 %
$ 1,147
22.73 %
$ 1,175
22.09 %
$ 1,236
23.36 %
Commercial real estate
4,530
37.29
4,268
30.32
3,198
33.69
3,107
31.46
3,499
34.08
Construction, land acquisition and development
4.24
6.62
5.75
2.49
2.73
Commercial and industrial
2,670
19.67
2,619
26.39
1,997
17.86
2,552
18.08
2,340
19.54
Consumer
1,159
8.72
1,319
9.51
1,658
14.66
2,051
18.81
1,395
14.75
State and political subdivisions
6.22
5.43
5.31
7.07
5.54
Unallocated
1,129
-
1,086
-
-
-
-
-
Total
$ 12,416
100.00 %
$ 11,950
100.00 %
$ 8,950
100.00 %
$ 9,519
100.00 %
$ 9,034
100.00 %
The following table presents an analysis of changes in the ALLL and the ratio of net (recoveries) charge-offs to average loans by major loan category and certain credit ratios for each of the last five years:
Reconciliation of the ALLL
For the Year Ended December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, January 1,
$
11,950
$
8,950
$
9,519
$
9,034
$
8,419
Charge-offs:
Residential real estate
-
Commercial real estate
-
1,845
Construction, land acquisition and development
-
-
-
-
Commercial and industrial
1,258
Consumer
1,311
1,134
State and political subdivision
-
-
-
-
-
Total charge-offs
1,565
2,614
3,139
1,449
Recoveries of charged-off loans:
Residential real estate
Commercial real estate
Construction, land acquisition and development
-
Commercial and industrial
1,220
Consumer
State and political subdivision
-
-
-
-
-
Total recoveries
1,086
2,624
1,248
1,074
1,295
Net (recoveries) charge-offs
(300)
(1,059)
1,366
2,065
Provision for loan and lease losses
1,941
2,550
Balance, December 31,
$
12,416
$
11,950
$
8,950
$
9,519
$
9,034
Net (recoveries) charge-offs to average loans and leases
Residential real estate
(0.00)
%
(0.03)
%
0.01
%
(0.05)
%
0.11
%
Commercial real estate
(0.13)
(0.16)
(0.01)
0.62
0.04
Construction, land acquisition and development
(0.02)
-
(0.21)
(0.13)
(2.53)
Commercial and industrial
0.06
(0.43)
0.59
(0.12)
0.10
Consumer
0.03
0.42
0.37
0.35
0.19
State and political subdivision
-
-
-
-
-
Net (recoveries) charge-offs to average loans and leases
(0.03)
%
(0.12)
%
0.16
%
0.25
%
0.02
%
Ratios:
Allowance for loan and lease losses to gross loans at period end
1.27
%
1.33
%
1.08
%
1.13
%
1.17
%
Allowance for loan and lease losses to nonaccrual loans
321.41
%
214.12
%
98.52
%
202.70
%
350.43
%
Other Real Estate Owned
The balance of OREO was $920 thousand at December 31, 2021, which included two bank-owned properties that were transferred from bank premises to OREO. Comparatively, OREO at December 31, 2020 included one piece of commercial land with a carrying value of $58 thousand. FNCB recorded a valuation adjustment to the carrying value of $4 thousand prior to selling the land in 2021. The land was subsequently sold for $65 thousand with a gain of $11 thousand recognized at the time of sale. In 2021, FNCB also obtained a deed in lieu of foreclosure for a residential mortgage with a recorded investment of $138 thousand. The property immediately went under contract at a selling price of $205 thosuand. FNCB transferred the property to OREO at the selling price less cost to sell of $178 thousand and recorded a positive valuation adjustment of $40 thousand, which is included in non-interest income for the year ended December 31, 2021. The sale of this property was finalized in 2021.
On December 16, 2021, FNCB received approval from its primary regulator to consolidate the Bank’s Wheeler Avenue Community Office into its Main Office effective February 18, 2022. Both offices are located in Dunmore, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. FNCB is obligated under a land lease through December 2024 for the Wheeler Avenue property and FNCB received an independent third-party appraisal of the building and improvements, which it owns. Upon regulatory approval, FNCB transferred the building and improvements to OREO at fair value less estimated cost to sell of $228 thousand and recorded a loss on the transfer of $242 thousand which is included in other operating expense in the consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2021. In addition, in the fourth quarter of 2021, FNCB accepted an offer on a parcel of commercial land originally held in bank premises for future branch expansion. Upon acceptance FNCB transferred the property to OREO at $692 thousand, the selling price less estimated cost to sell. A loss of $68 thousand was recorded on the transfer and included in other operating expense in the consolidated statements of income. The sale of the land is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2022.
FNCB actively markets OREO properties for sale through a variety of channels including internal marketing and the use of outside brokers/realtors. The carrying value of OREO is generally calculated at an amount not greater than 90% of the most recent fair market appraised value unless specific conditions warrant an exception. A 10% factor is generally used to estimate costs to sell, which is based on typical cost factors, such as 6% broker commission, 1% transfer taxes, and 3% various other miscellaneous costs associated with the sales process. This fair value is updated on an annual basis or more frequently if new valuation information is available. Deterioration in the real estate market could result in additional losses on these properties. Valuation adjustments related to OREO included a positive valuation adjustment of $36 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2021 and a write-down of $27 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2020.
The following table presents the activity in OREO for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Activity in OREO
For the Years Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Balance, January 1
$
$
Real estate foreclosures
-
Transfer from bank premises
-
Valuation adjustments
(27 )
Carrying value of OREO sold
(232 )
(204 )
Balance, December 31
$
$
The following table presents a distribution of OREO at December 31, for the past five years:
Distribution of OREO
December 31,
(in thousands)
Land / lots
$
$
$
$
$
Commercial real estate
-
-
Residential real estate
-
-
Total other real estate owned
$
$
$
$
$ 1,023
The expenses related to maintaining OREO include the subsequent write-downs of the properties related to declines in value since foreclosure, net of any income received. OREO expenses amounted to $25 thousand and $164 thousand and are included in other operating expense in the consolidated statements of income, for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Deposits
Management recognizes the importance of deposit growth as its primary funding source for loan products and regularly evaluates new products and strategies focused on growing commercial, consumer and municipal deposit relationships. FNCB experienced strong deposit demand in 2021 and 2020, which was concentrated primarily in non-maturity deposits. The strong demand was generally caused by factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic including among others, various government stimulus initiatives, PPP funding, and changes in consumer and saving habits and business investment in response to economic uncertainty. FNCB did experience some deposit migration during both 2021 and 2020 as maturing time deposits were redirected into non-maturity deposits.
Total deposits in creased $167.6 million, or 13.0%, to $1.455 billion at December 31, 2021 from $1.287 billion at December 31, 2020 . Interest-bearing deposits increased $119.0 million, or 11.7%, to $1.135 billion at December 31, 2021 from $1.016 billion at December 31, 2020 . In addition, non-interest-bearing deposits increased $48.6 million, or 17.9%, to $320.1 million at December 31, 2021 from $271.5 million at December 31, 2020 . The increase in non-interest-bearing deposits was due primarily to increases in consumer and small business demand deposit accounts, including residual balances retained from PPP loan funding. With regard to interest-bearing deposits, the increase was primarily concentrated in interest-bearing demand accounts, specifically money market transaction accounts, interest-bearing public funds and interest-bearing business checking accounts. In total, interest-bearing demand deposits increased $144.6 million, or 20.2%, to $857.9 million at December 31, 2021 from $713.4 million at December 31, 2020 . Savings accounts increased $24.6 million, or 22.4%, to $134.2 million at December 31, 2021 from $109.7 million at December 31, 2020. Time deposits with balances $250 thousand and over decreased $9.7 million, or 26.7%, to $26.5 million a t December 31, 2021 , from $36.2 million at December 31, 2020, and other time deposits decreased $40.3 million, or 25.7%, to $116.3 million at December 31, 2021 from $156.7 million at December 31, 2020. At December 31, 2021 other time deposits included $10 million in brokered time deposits outstanding that are part of an interest rate swap transaction, compared to $20 million at December 31, 2020.
Total deposits averaged $1.381 billion in 2021, an increase of $230.7 million, or 20.1%, compared to $1.151 billion in 2020. The changes in average deposit balances reflected the migration of time deposits into non-maturity deposits, and continued oversupply of deposits in the market. Non-interest-bearing demand deposits averaged $73.2 million, or 30.2%, higher at $315.2 million in 2021 as compared to $242.0 million in 2020. Interest-bearing deposits averaged $1.066 billion in 2021, an increase of $157.6 million, or 17.3%, from $908.5 million in 2020. The increase was concentrated in average interest-bearing demand deposits which increased $153.3 million, or 25.1% comparing 2021 and 2020. Average savings deposits increased $23.2 million, or 22.8%, to $125.0 million in 2021 from $101.9 million in 2020. Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease of $18.9 million, or 9.7%, in average time deposits, to $176.2 million in 2021 from $195.1 million in 2020. FNCB’s deposit funding costs decreased 35 basis points, to 0.24% in 2021 from 0.59% in 2020. Rates on interest-bearing demand and time deposits decreased by 32 basis points and 55 basis points, respectively, while savings deposit rates decreased to a lesser extent, by 3 basis points, comparing 2021 and 2020. The decrease in deposit costs reflected sustained low market interest rates due to deposit oversupply within the industry in 2021.
The average balance of, and the rate paid on, the major classifications of deposits for the past three years are summarized in the following table:
Deposit Distribution
For the Year Ended December 31,
Average
Average
Average
(dollars in thousands)
Balance
Rate
Balance
Rate
Balance
Rate
Interest-bearing deposits:
Demand
$ 764,798
0.16 %
$ 611,511
0.48 %
$ 513,542
0.81 %
Savings
125,022
0.07
101,847
0.10
93,114
0.13
Time
176,245
0.66
195,140
1.22
238,145
1.60
Total interest-bearing deposits
1,066,065
0.24 %
908,498
0.59 %
844,801
0.96 %
Non-interest-bearing deposits
315,181
242,017
164,035
Total deposits
$ 1,381,246
$ 1,150,515
$ 1,008,836
The following table presents the maturity distribution of time deposits in excess of insurance limit at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Maturity Distribution of Time Deposits $250,000 or More
December 31,
(in thousands)
3 months or less
$ 10,740
$ 13,022
Over 3 through 6 months
5,354
5,476
Over 6 through 12 months
8,431
14,913
Over 12 months
2,006
2,805
Total
$ 26,531
$ 36,216
Borrowings
FNCB has an agreement with the FHLB of Pittsburgh which allows for borrowings, either overnight or term, up to a maximum borrowing capacity based on a percentage of qualifying loans pledged under a blanket pledge agreement. In addition to pledging loans, FNCB is required to purchase FHLB of Pittsburgh stock based upon the amount of credit extended. Loans that were pledged to collateralize borrowings under this agreement were $478.3 million at December 31, 2021 and $500.1 million at December 31, 2020. FNCB’s maximum borrowing capacity was $391.7 million at December 31, 2021. There was $7.5 million in letters of credit to secure municipal deposits outstanding at December 31, 2021 under this agreement. There were $20.0 million in term advances through the FHLB of Pittsburgh outstanding at December 31, 2021 that were hedged under interest-rate swaps. There were no overnight borrowings or term advances through the FHLB of Pittsburgh at December 31, 2020.
Advances through the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window generally include short-term advances which are fully collateralized by certain pledged loans of $18 million under the Federal Reserve Bank’s Borrower-in-Custody (“BIC”) program. There were no advances under the BIC program outstanding at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. FNCB had available borrowing capacity of $10.6 million under this program at December 31, 2021.
FNCB also had $10.3 million of junior subordinated debentures outstanding at December 31, 2021 and 2020. The interest rate on these debentures resets quarterly at a spread of 1.67% above the current 3-month LIBOR rate. The average interest rate paid on the junior subordinated debentures in 2021 was 1.85%, compared to 2.43% in 2020.
Average borrowed funds decreased $39.1 million, or 14.0%, to $12.2 million in 2021 from $51.3 million in 2020. The average rate paid on borrowed funds increased 14 basis points to 1.61% in 2021 from 1.47% in 2020. The increase in rate on borrowed funds reflected lower average volumes of overnight and short-term borrowings through the FHLB of Pittsburgh and Federal Reserve Bank in 2021 as compared to 2020, as short-term borrowing rates were at historical lows. Average borrowed funds in 2021 was comprised mainly of the junior subordinated debentures, which carry an adjustable rate tied to 3-Month LIBOR plus 1.67%.
See Note 7, “Borrowed Funds” of the Notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" to this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information about FNCB's borrowed funds.
Liquidity
The term liquidity refers to the ability to generate sufficient amounts of cash to meet cash flow needs. Liquidity is required to fulfill the borrowing needs of FNCB’s credit customers and the withdrawal and maturity requirements of its deposit customers, as well as to meet other financial commitments. FNCB’s liquidity position is impacted by several factors, which include, among others, loan and lease origination volumes, loan, lease and investment maturity structure and cash flows, deposit demand and time deposit maturity structure and retention. FNCB has liquidity and contingent funding policies in place that are designed with controls in place to provide advanced detection of potentially significant funding shortfalls, establish methods for assessing and monitoring risk levels, and institute prompt responses that may alleviate a potential liquidity crisis. Management monitors fluctuations in FNCB’s liquidity position daily and forecasts future liquidity needs. Additionally, management performs periodic stress tests on FNCB's liquidity position that attempt to model in varying degrees of stress in order to proactively develop strategies to ensure adequate liquidity at all times. Additionally, management regularly monitors FNCB's wholesale funding sources taking into consideration the cost of fund, diversification between funding sources and asset/liability management strategies. FNCB utilizes brokered deposits, including one-way purchases through the IntraFiSM Network, deposits acquired through a national listing service, as well as overnight and term advances through the FHLB of Pittsburgh as wholesale sources of funds to supplement its deposit gathering initiatives.
The statements of cash flows present the change in cash and cash equivalents from operating, investing and financing activities. Cash and due from banks and interest-bearing deposits in other banks, which comprise cash and cash equivalents, are FNCB’s most liquid assets. Cash and cash equivalents totaled $99.0 million at December 31, 2021, a decrease of $56.8 million, or 36.4%, from $155.8 million at December 31, 2020, as net cash outflows for investing activities more than offset net cash inflows from operating and financing activities.
Net cash outflows from investing activities used $260.8 million of cash and cash equivalents during the year ended December 31, 2021, which primarily reflected the deployment of excess liquidity into the investment and loan portfolios. Specifically, cash outflows for purchases of available-for-sale debt securities, net of inflows for sales, maturities, calls and repayments, were $184.3 million in 2021. Additionally, FNCB recorded a net increase in loans and leases of $73.2 million, resulting from increased demand, ALCO initiatives to hold in portfolio saleable 1-4 family residential mortgages, and the purchase of individual loans and loan pools from third-party originators. Also, contributing to the net cash outflow for investing activities were purchases of new BOLI policies and bank premises and equipment of $2.5 million and $1.3 million, respectively.
Financing activities provided $179.8 million in net cash, which resulted primarily from a $167.6 million net increase in deposits in 2021, coupled with $20.0 million in proceeds received from term advances through FHLB of Pittsburgh. These inflows were slightly offset by net cash used to pay dividends to shareholder dividends of $5.4 million and to repurchase shares of common stock totaling $2.4 million. Operating activities include net income, adjusted for the effects of non-cash transactions including, among others, depreciation and amortization and the provision for loan and lease losses, and is the primary source of cash flows from operations. In 2021 operating activities provided FNCB with $24.2 million in net cash, which reflected net income of $21.4 million and non-cash adjustments to income of $2.8 million.
Management is actively monitoring FNCB's liquidity position and capital adequacy in light of the changing circumstances related to economic uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. While management believes FNCB's liquidity position is favorable, they are keenly aware that changes in general economic conditions, including inflation, rising interest rates and situations related to the pandemic, among others, could pose potential stress on liquidity should deposits begin exiting the Bank or FNCB's asset quality deteriorates. Additionally, FNCB could experience an increase in the utilization of existing lines of credit as customers manage their own liquidity needs during this time of economic uncertainty. Management believes that FNCB’s current liquidity position is sufficient to meet its cash flow needs as of December 31, 2021. In addition to cash and cash equivalents of $99.0 million at December 31, 2021, FNCB had ample sources of additional liquidity including approximately $391.7 million in available borrowing capacity with the FHLB of Pittsburgh, and available borrowing capacity through The Federal Reserve Discount Window of $10.6 million under the BIC program. In addition, FNCB had $72.0 million in federal fund lines of credit available through correspondent banks at December 31, 2021, as well as access to wholesale deposit markets.
Capital
A strong capital base is essential to the continued growth and profitability of FNCB and is therefore a management priority. Management’s principal capital planning goals include providing an adequate return to shareholders, retaining a sufficient base from which to provide for future growth, and complying with applicable regulatory standards. As more fully described in Note 14, “Regulatory Matters” to the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, regulatory authorities have prescribed specified minimum capital ratios as guidelines for determining capital adequacy to help assure the safety and soundness of financial institutions.
The following schedules present information regarding the Bank’s risk-based capital at December 31, 2021 and 2020, and selected other capital ratios:
FNCB Bank
Minimum Required For Capital Adequacy Purposes
Minimum Required For Capital Adequacy Purposes with Conservation Buffer
Minimum Required To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Regulations
(dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Ratio
Ratio
Ratio
December 31, 2021
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)
$ 161,957
14.64 %
8.00 %
10.50 %
10.00 %
Tier I capital (to risk-weighted assets)
148,958
13.46 %
6.00 %
8.50 %
8.00 %
Tier I common equity (to risk-weighted assets)
148,958
13.46 %
4.50 %
7.00 %
6.50 %
Tier I capital (to average assets)
148,958
8.92 %
4.00 %
4.00 %
5.00 %
Total risk-weighted assets
1,106,636
Total average assets
1,669,932
FNCB Bank
Minimum Required For Capital Adequacy Purposes
Minimum Required For Capital Adequacy Purposes with Conservation Buffer
Minimum Required To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Regulations
(dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Ratio
Ratio
Ratio
December 31, 2020
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)
$ 149,173
15.79 %
8.00 %
10.50 %
10.00 %
Tier I capital (to risk-weighted assets)
137,356
14.54 %
6.00 %
8.5 %
8.00 %
Tier I common equity (to risk-weighted assets)
137,356
14.54 %
4.50 %
7.00 %
6.50 %
Tier I capital (to average assets)
137,356
9.57 %
4.00 %
4.00 %
5.00 %
Total risk-weighted assets
944,546
Total average assets
1,434,776
FNCB’s total regulatory capital increased $12.8 million to $162.0 million at December 31, 2021 from $149.2 million at December 31, 2020. The Bank’s risk-based capital ratios exceeded the minimum regulatory capital ratios required for adequately capitalized institutions. Based on the most recent notification from its primary regulators, the Bank was categorized as well capitalized at December 31, 2021 and 2020. There are no conditions or events since this notification that management believes have changed this category.
As of December 31, 2021, FNCB had 30,010,125 shares of common stock available for future sale or share dividends. Quarterly market highs and lows, dividends paid and known market makers are highlighted in Part I, Item 5, “Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. For further discussion of FNCB’s capital requirements and dividend limitations, refer to Note 14, “Regulatory Matters,” of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Additionally, FNCB has available 20,000,000 authorized shares of preferred stock. There were no preferred shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
On January 27, 2021, FNCB's Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program under which up to 975,000 shares of FNCB's outstanding common stock may be acquired in the open market pursuant to a trading plan that was adopted in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The repurchase program commenced on February 3, 2021 and expired on December 31, 2021. On January 26, 2022, FNCB's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 750,000 shares of FNCB's outstanding common stock under a similar program, which is anticipated to commence on March 4, 2022. Repurchases under both programs are administered through an independent broker and are subjected to SEC regulations as well as certain price, market volume and timing constraints specified in the trading plan. In 2021, FNCB repurchased 330,759 shares at a weighted-average price per share of $7.21, or $2.4 million in aggregate. Repurchases are funded from available working capital and the repurchased shares were returned to the status of authorized but unissued shares of common stock.
FNCB’s ability to pay dividends to its shareholders is largely dependent on the Bank’s ability to pay dividends to FNCB. Bank regulations limit the amount of dividends that may be paid without prior approval of the Bank’s regulatory agency. Cash dividends declared and paid by FNCB during 2021 and 2020 were $0.27 per share and $0.22 per share, respectively. FNCB offers a Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase plan ("DRP") to its shareholders. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 dividend reinvestment shares were purchased in open market transactions, while shares under the optional cash purchase feature of the DRP were issued from authorized but unissued common shares. Shares of common stock issued under the DRP totaled 12,189 and 10,271 for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Subsequent to December 31, 2021, on January 26, 2022, FNCB declared a $0.075 per share dividend payable on March 15, 2022 to shareholders of record on March 1, 2022.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
In the ordinary course of operations, FNCB engages in a variety of financial transactions that, in accordance with GAAP, are not recorded in our consolidated financial statements or are recorded in amounts that differ from the notional amounts. These transactions involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit, interest rate and liquidity risk. Such transactions may be used for general corporate purposes or for customer needs. Corporate purpose transactions would be used to help manage credit, interest rate and liquidity risk or to optimize capital. Customer transactions are used to manage customers' requests for funding.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, FNCB did not engage in any off-balance sheet transactions that would have or would be reasonably likely to have a material effect on its consolidated financial condition. For a further discussion of FNCB’s off-balance sheet arrangements, refer to Note 12, “Commitments, Contingencies, and Concentrations” to the notes to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The following table presents off-balance financial instruments whose contractual amounts represent credit risk at December 31, 2021 and 2020. With the exception of credit availability for certain commercial construction, land acquisition and development loans having a 24-month draw period, all of the off-balance sheet financial instruments outstanding at December 31, 2021 expire within one year of their respective contract dates.
Off-Balance Sheet Commitments
December 31,
(in thousands)
Commitments to extend credit
$ 273,883
$ 227,908
Standby letters of credit
17,179
18,914
In order to provide for probable losses inherent in these instruments, FNCB recorded reserves for unfunded commitments of $583 thousand and $613 thousand at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, which were included in other liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to measure the FNCB’s financial position and operating results primarily in terms of historic dollars. Changes in the relative value of money due to inflation or recession are generally not considered. The primary effect of inflation on FNCB's operations is primarily related to increases in operating expenses. Management considers changes in interest rates to impact our financial condition and results of operations to a far greater degree than changes in prices due to inflation. Although interest rates are greatly influenced by changes in the inflation rate, they do not necessarily change at the same rate or in the same magnitude as the inflation rate. FNCB manages interest rate risk in several ways. Refer to “Interest Rate Risk ” in Item 7A for further discussion.There can be no assurance that FNCB will not be materially adversely affected by future changes in interest rates, as interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond its control. Additionally, inflation may adversely impact the financial condition of FNCB's borrowers and could impact their ability to repay their loans, which could negatively affect FNCB's asset quality through higher delinquency rates and increased charge-offs. Management will carefully will carefully consider the impact of inflation and rising interest rates on FNCB borrowers in managing credit risk related to the loan and lease portfolio.

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
Interest Rate Risk
Interest Rate Sensitivity
Market risk is the risk to earnings and/or financial position resulting from adverse changes in market rates or prices, such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates or equity prices. FNCB’s exposure to market risk is primarily interest rate risk associated with our lending, investing and deposit gathering activities, all of which are other than trading. Changes in interest rates affect earnings by changing net interest income and the level of other interest-sensitive income and operating expenses. In addition, variations in interest rates affect the underlying economic value of our assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet items.
LIBOR Replacement
The Alternative Reference Rates Committee ("ARRC") had proposed that the Secured Overnight Funding Rate ("SOFR") replace USD-LIBOR, with the transition to SOFR from USD-LIBOR to take place by the end of 2021. FNCB has various loans, investments, borrowings and interest rate swap contracts that are indexed to USD-LIBOR. On November 30, 2020 the ICE Benchmark Administration ("IBA"), which complies and oversees LIBOR, announced its intention to extend most of the USD-LIBOR tenors to June 30, 2023, with U.S. banking regulators supporting the extension. As of December 31, 2021, most LIBOR tenors, with the exception of the overnight, 1-,3-, 6- and 12-month LIBOR tenors which have been extended through June 30, 2023, have ceased to be published. Additionally, beginning January 1, 2022, no new financial instruments can be written with terms tied to LIBOR. FNCB has various loans, investments, borrowings and interest rate swap contracts that are indexed to USD-LIBOR, and management is actively monitoring its LIBOR exposures and evaluating any risks involved.
Asset and Liability Management
The ALCO, comprised of members of the Bank's board of directors, executive management and other appropriate officers, oversees FNCB's interest rate risk management program. Members of ALCO meet quarterly, or more frequently as necessary, to develop balance sheet strategies affecting the future level of net interest income, liquidity and capital. The major objectives of ALCO are to:
●
manage exposure to changes in the interest rate environment by limiting the changes in net interest margin to an acceptable level within a reasonable range of interest rates;
●
ensure adequate liquidity and funding;
●
maintain a strong capital base; and
●
maximize net interest income opportunities.
ALCO monitors FNCB’s exposure to changes in net interest income over both a one-year planning horizon and a longer-term strategic horizon. ALCO uses net interest income simulations and economic value of equity (“EVE”) simulations as the primary tools in measuring and managing FNCB’s position and considers balance sheet forecasts, FNCB's liquidity position, the economic environment, anticipated direction of interest rates and FNCB’s earnings sensitivity to changes in these rates in its modeling. In addition, ALCO has established policy tolerance limits for acceptable negative changes in net interest income. Furthermore, as part of its ongoing monitoring, ALCO requires quarterly back testing of modeling results, which involves after-the-fact comparisons of projections with FNCB’s actual performance to measure the validity of assumptions used in the modeling techniques.
Earnings at Risk and Economic Value at Risk Simulations:
Earnings at Risk
Earnings-at-risk simulation measures the change in net interest income and net income under various interest rate scenarios. Specifically, given the current market rates, ALCO looks at “earnings at risk” to determine anticipated changes in net interest income from a base case scenario with scenarios of + 200, +400 and -100 basis points for simulation purposes. The simulation takes into consideration that not all assets and liabilities re-price equally and simultaneously with market rates (i.e., savings rate).
Economic Value at Risk
While earnings-at-risk simulation measures the short-term risk in the balance sheet, economic value (or portfolio equity) at risk measures the long-term risk by finding the net present value of the future cash flows from FNCB’s existing assets and liabilities. ALCO examines this ratio regularly, and given the current rate environment, has utilized rate shocks of +200, +400 and -100 basis points for simulation purposes. Management recognizes that, in some instances, this ratio may contradict the “earnings at risk” ratio.
While ALCO regularly performs a wide variety of simulations under various strategic balance sheet and treasury yield curve scenarios, the following results reflect FNCB’s sensitivity over the subsequent twelve months based on the following assumptions:
●
asset and liability levels as of December 31, 2021 as a starting point;
●
cash flows are based on contractual maturity and amortization schedules with applicable prepayments derived from internal historical data and external sources; and
●
cash flows are reinvested into similar instruments to keep interest-earning asset and interest-bearing liability levels constant.
The following table illustrates the simulated impact of parallel and instantaneous interest rate shocks of +400 basis points, +200 basis points and -100 basis points on net interest income and the change in economic value over a one-year time horizon from the December 31, 2021 levels:
Rates +200
Rates +400
Rates -100
Simulation
Policy
Simulation
Policy
Simulation
Policy
Results
Limit
Results
Limit
Results
Limit
Earnings at risk:
Percent change in net interest income
(4.1 )%
(12.5 )%
(6.9 )%
(20.0 )%
(4.6 )%
(10.0 )%
Economic value at risk:
Percent change in economic value of equity
(3.0 )%
(20.0 )%
(8.9 )%
(35.0 )%
(21.6 )%
(10.0 )%
Model results at December 31, 2021 indicated that FNCB's asset/liability position was relatively well matched in the near term with an asset-sensitive bias emerging over the remaining over the life of the model. At December 31, 2021, the model indicated that FNCB’s net interest income is expected to decrease 4.1% under a +200-basis point interest rate shock, as compared to the base case. Under this scenario, assumed increases to funding costs hinder potential benefits of rising rates on net interest income in the near term with net interest income exhibiting a strong upward trajectory for the remainder of the simulation. Model results also indicate a 4.6% decrease to net interest income from the base case over the next 12 months under a rate shock of -100 basis points. Assumptions under this falling-rate scenario, indicate that asset-yield deterioration would offset any remaining funding cost relief, with net interest income to continue a downward trend as assets continue to reprice into lower rates. Additionally, model results indicated that FNCB's EVE is expected to decrease 3.0% and 21.6% under parallel shifts in interest rates of +200 basis points and -100 basis points, respectively. With the exception of a -100-basis point impact on the EVE, all modeled exposures of net interest income and EVE were within internal policy guidelines. Management does not believe that the modeled decrease in the EVE, which exceeds the current policy limit of 10.0%, poses any undue interest rate risk at December 31, 2021, as the results are impacted by deposit decay rate assumptions on the higher level of non-maturity deposits. Comparatively, model results at December 31, 2020 indicated net interest income would be expected to decrease 1.0% and economic value of equity would be expected to increase 10.7% given a +200-basis point rate shock, and under a -100- basis point rate shock, net interest income would be expected to decrease 0.8% and the economic value of equity would decrease 32.9%.
This analysis does not represent a forecast for FNCB and should not be relied upon as being indicative of expected operating results. These simulations are based on numerous assumptions, including but not limited to, the nature and timing of interest rate levels, prepayments on loans and securities, deposit decay rates, pricing decisions on loans and deposits, reinvestment/replacements of asset and liability cash flows, and other factors. While assumptions reflect current economic and local market conditions, FNCB cannot make any assurances as to the predictive nature of these assumptions, including changes in interest rates, customer preferences, competition and liquidity needs, or what actions ALCO might take in responding to these changes.
As previously mentioned, as part of its ongoing monitoring, ALCO requires quarterly back testing of modeling results, which involves after-the-fact comparisons of projections with FNCB’s actual performance to measure the validity of assumptions used in the modeling techniques. As part of its quarterly review, management compared tax-equivalent net interest income recorded for the three months ended December 31, 2021 with tax-equivalent net interest income that was projected for the period. There was a positive variance between actual and projected tax-equivalent net interest income for the three months ended December 31, 2021 of ﻿approximately $1.1 million, or 8.1%. The variance primarily reflected a difference in the assumption for the volume and timing of the forgiveness of PPP loans used in the model with that actually experienced. ALCO performs a detailed rate/volume analysis between actual and projected results to continue to improve the accuracy of its simulation models.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of
FNCB Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Opinion on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of FNCB Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows, for the years then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "consolidated financial statements"). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Allowance for Loan Losses - Qualitative Factor Adjustments
Critical Audit Matter Description
As described in Notes 2 and 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the allowance for loan losses is established through a provision for loan losses and represents an amount, which, in management’s judgment will be adequate to absorb losses in the loan portfolio. The Company's allowance for loan losses was $12.42 million at December 31, 2021, which consisted of specific and general reserve components of $0.03 million and $12.39 million, respectively.
In calculating the general reserve component, management considered historical loss experience by segment and qualitative factor adjustments for changes not reflected in the historical loss experience. The general reserve component of the Company’s allowance for loan losses involved consideration of national and local economic conditions, levels of and trends in classified loans, delinquency rates and nonaccrual loans, trends in volumes and terms of loans, changes in lending policies, lending personnel, and collateral, as well as concentrations in loan types, industry, and geography. The adjustments for qualitative factors require a significant amount of judgment by management and involve a high degree of estimation uncertainty.
We identified the qualitative factor component of the allowance for loan losses as a critical audit matter as auditing the underlying qualitative factors required significant auditor judgment as amounts determined by management rely on analysis that is highly subjective and includes significant estimation uncertainty.
The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included:
●
Obtaining an understanding of the relevant controls related to the allowance for loan losses and tested such controls for design and operating effectiveness, including controls related to management's establishment, review, and approval of the qualitative factors, and the completeness and accuracy of data used in determining qualitative factors.
● Evaluation of the appropriateness of management's methodology for estimating the allowance for loan losses.
● Testing of the completeness and accuracy of data used by management in determining qualitative factor adjustments by agreeing them to internal and external source data.
●
Testing of management's conclusions regarding the appropriateness of the qualitative factor adjustments and agreement of any changes therein to the allowance for loan losses calculations.
/s/ Baker Tilly US, LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2014.
Baker Tilly US, LLP (PCAOB 23)
Iselin, New Jersey
March 11, 2022
FNCB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
December 31,
December 31,
(in thousands, except share data)
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and due from banks
$ 16,651 $ 24,822
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks
82,369 130,989
Total cash and cash equivalents
99,020 155,811
Available-for-sale debt securities
522,566 350,035
Equity securities, at fair value
4,922 3,026
Restricted stock, at cost
1,911 1,745
Loans held for sale
- 2,107
Loans and leases, net of allowance for loan and lease losses of $12,416 and $11,950
967,023 889,152
Bank premises and equipment, net
16,082 17,579
Accrued interest receivable
4,643 4,286
Bank-owned life insurance
33,494 31,712
Other assets
14,662 10,226
Total assets
$ 1,664,323 $ 1,465,679
Liabilities
Deposits:
Demand (non-interest-bearing)
$ 320,089 $ 271,499
Interest-bearing
1,134,939 1,015,949
Total deposits
1,455,028 1,287,448
Borrowed funds:
Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh advances
20,000 -
Junior subordinated debentures
10,310 10,310
Total borrowed funds
30,310 10,310
Accrued interest payable
49 108
Other liabilities
16,479 11,953
Total liabilities
1,501,866 1,309,819
Shareholders' equity
Preferred stock ($1.25 par)
Authorized: 20,000,000 shares at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020
Issued and outstanding: 0 shares at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020
- -
Common stock ($1.25 par)
Authorized: 50,000,000 shares at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020
Issued and outstanding: 19,989,875 shares at December 31, 2021 and 20,245,649 shares at December 31, 2020
24,987 25,307
Additional paid-in capital
80,128 81,587
Retained earnings
50,990 35,080
Accumulated other comprehensive income
6,352 13,886
Total shareholders' equity
162,457 155,860
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$ 1,664,323 $ 1,465,679
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
FNCB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands, except share data)
Interest income
Interest and fees on loans and leases
$ 41,049 $ 37,615
Interest and dividends on securities:
Taxable
8,237 7,073
Tax-exempt
2,086 1,373
Dividends
239 249
Total interest and dividends on securities
10,562 8,695
Interest on interest-bearing deposits in other banks
88 28
Total interest income
51,699 46,338
Interest expense
Interest on deposits
2,508 5,404
Interest on borrowed funds:
Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window advances
- 32
Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh advances
6 474
Junior subordinated debentures
191 250
Total interest on borrowed funds
197 756
Total interest expense
2,705 6,160
Net interest income before provision for loan and lease losses
48,994 40,178
Provision for loan and lease losses
166 1,941
Net interest income after provision for loan and lease losses
48,828 38,237
Non-interest income
Deposit service charges
3,877 3,252
Net gain on the sale of available-for-sale debt securities
213 1,528
Net gain on equity securities
701 1,171
Net gain on the sale of mortgage loans held for sale
352 653
Net gain on the sale of other real estate owned
11 -
Loan-related fees
390 348
Income from bank-owned life insurance
541 482
Bank-owned life insurance settlement
426 -
Merchant services revenue
593 565
Other
1,164 1,251
Total non-interest income
8,268 9,250
Non-interest expense
Salaries and employee benefits
16,697 15,246
Occupancy expense
2,039 2,052
Equipment expense
1,338 1,477
Advertising expense
712 685
Data processing expense
3,689 2,933
Regulatory assessments
609 387
Bank shares tax
975 786
Professional fees
674 999
Other operating expenses
4,336 4,350
Total non-interest expense
31,069 28,915
Income before income tax expense
26,027 18,572
Income tax expense
4,656 3,225
Net income
$ 21,371 $ 15,347
Earnings per share
Basic
$ 1.06 $ 0.76
Diluted
$ 1.06 $ 0.76
Cash dividends declared per common share
$ 0.27 $ 0.22
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING:
Basic
20,111,430 20,210,439
Diluted
20,126,853 20,212,187
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
FNCB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Net income
$ 21,371 $ 15,347
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Unrealized (losses) gains on available-for-sale debt securities
(9,711 ) 15,349
Taxes
2,039 (3,223 )
Net of tax amount
(7,672 ) 12,126
Reclassification adjustment for net gains included in net income
(213 ) (1,528 )
Taxes
45 321
Net of tax amount
(168 ) (1,207 )
Derivative adjustments
388 (112 )
Taxes
(82 ) 23
Net of tax amount
306 (89 )
Total other comprehensive (loss) income
(7,534 ) 10,830
Comprehensive income
$ 13,837 $ 26,177
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
FNCB BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
Accumulated
Number
Additional
Other
Total
of Common
Common
Paid-in
Retained
Comprehensive
Shareholders'
(in thousands, except share data)
Shares
Stock
Capital
Earnings
Income
Equity
Balances, December 31, 2019
20,171,408 $ 25,214 $ 81,130 $ 24,207 $ 3,056 $ 133,607
Net income
- - - 15,347 - 15,347
Cash dividends paid, $0.22 per share
- - - (4,447 ) - (4,447 )
Restricted stock awards
- - 336 - - 336
Common shares issued under long-term incentive compensation plan
63,970 80 70 - - 150
Common shares issued through dividend reinvestment/optional cash purchase plan
10,271 13 51 (27 ) - 37
Other comprehensive income, net of tax of $2,879
- - - - 10,830 10,830
Balances, December 31, 2020
20,245,649 $ 25,307 $ 81,587 $ 35,080 $ 13,886 $ 155,860
Net income
- - - 21,371 - 21,371
Cash dividends paid, $0.27 per share
- - - (5,427 ) - (5,427 )
Restricted stock awards
- - 376 - - 376
Repurchase of common shares
(330,759 ) (413 ) (1,984 ) - - (2,397 )
Common shares issued under long-term incentive compensation plan
62,796 78 72 - - 150
Common shares issued through dividend reinvestment/optional cash purchase plan
12,189 15 77 (34 ) - 58
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax of $2,002
- - - - (7,534 ) (7,534 )
Balances, December 31, 2021
19,989,875 $ 24,987 $ 80,128 $ 50,990 $ 6,352 $ 162,457
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
FNCB BANCORP, INC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
$ 21,371 $ 15,347
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Investment securities amortization, net
2,059 879
Equity in trust
(6 ) (8 )
Depreciation of bank premises and equipment
1,567 1,628
Amortization of loan origination fees
(4,793 ) (626 )
Valuation adjustment for loan servicing rights
(16 ) 16
Stock-based compensation expense
526 486
Provision for loan and lease losses
166 1,941
Valuation adjustment for off-balance sheet commitments
(30 ) (90 )
Net gain on the sale of available-for-sale debt securities
(213 ) (1,528 )
Net gain on equity securities
(701 ) (1,171 )
Net gain on the sale of mortgage loans held for sale
(352 ) (653 )
Net gain on other real estate owned
(11 ) -
Valuation adjustment of other real estate owned
(36 ) 27
Loss on the disposition of bank premises and equipment
300 -
Bank-owned life insurance settlement
(426 ) -
Income from bank-owned life insurance
(541 ) (482 )
Proceeds from the sale of mortgage loans held for sale
9,778 14,510
Funds used to originate mortgage loans held for sale
(7,319 ) (14,903 )
Decrease in net deferred tax assets
387 3,219
Increase in accrued interest receivable
(357 ) (1,052 )
(Increase) decrease in other assets
(672 ) 1,412
Decrease in accrued interest payable
(59 ) (150 )
Increase in other liabilities
3,536 773
Total adjustments
2,787 4,228
Net cash provided by operating activities
24,158 19,575
Cash flows from investing activities:
Maturities, calls and principal payments of available-for-sale debt securities
36,666 20,694
Proceeds from the sale of available-for-sale debt securities
2,981 69,271
Purchases of available-for-sale debt securities
(223,949 ) (152,691 )
Purchase of equity securities
(1,195 ) (500 )
(Purchase) redemption of restricted stock
(166 ) 2,059
Proceeds from the sale/transfer of equity securities
- 1,223
Purchase of equity securities without readily determinable fair values
- (500 )
Net increase in loans and leases to customers
(73,238 ) (70,820 )
Proceeds from the sale of other real estate owned
243 204
Proceeds received from bank-owned life insurance settlement
1,685 -
Purchase of bank-owned life insurance
(2,500 ) -
Purchases of bank premises and equipment
(1,290 ) (1,689 )
Net cash used in investing activities
(260,763 ) (132,749 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net increase in deposits
167,580 285,739
Repayment of from Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh advances - overnight
- (14,100 )
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh advances - term
20,000 20,000
Repayment of Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh advances - term
- (52,809 )
Repurchase of common shares
(2,397 ) -
Proceeds from issuance of common shares, net of discount
58 37
Cash dividends paid
(5,427 ) (4,447 )
Net cash provided by financing activities
179,814 234,420
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
(56,791 ) 121,246
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
155,811 34,565
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
$ 99,020 $ 155,811
Supplemental cash flow information
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest
$ 2,764 $ 6,310
Taxes
4,480 -
Other transactions:
Loans transferred to OREO
138 -
Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use assets
60 387
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. ORGANIZATION
FNCB Bancorp, Inc. is a registered bank holding company under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1997. It is the parent company of FNCB Bank (the “Bank”) and the Bank’s wholly owned subsidiaries FNCB Realty Company, Inc., FNCB Realty Company I, LLC, and FNCB Realty Company II, LLC. Unless the context otherwise requires, the term “FNCB” is used to refer to FNCB Bancorp, Inc., and its subsidiaries. In certain circumstances, however, the term “FNCB” refers to FNCB Bancorp, Inc., itself.
The Bank provides customary retail and commercial banking services to individuals, businesses and local governments and municipalities through its 17 full-service branch locations, as of December 31, 2021, within its primary market area, Northeastern Pennsylvania.
FNCB Realty Company, Inc., FNCB Realty Company I, LLC, and FNCB Realty Company II, LLC, which were formed to hold real estate and/or operate businesses acquired in exchange for debt settlement or foreclosure, were inactive at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
In December 2006, First National Community Statutory Trust I (“Issuing Trust”), which is wholly owned by FNCB, was formed under Delaware law to provide FNCB with an additional funding source through the issuance of pooled trust preferred securities. FNCB has adopted Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810-10, Consolidation, for the Issuing Trust. Accordingly, the Issuing Trust has not been consolidated with the accounts of FNCB, because FNCB is not the primary beneficiary of the trust.
Note 2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements of FNCB are comprised of the accounts of FNCB Bancorp, Inc., and its wholly-owned subsidiary, FNCB Bank, as well as the Bank’s wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The accounting and reporting policies of FNCB conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), Regulation S-X and general practices within the banking industry. Prior period amounts have been reclassified when necessary to conform to the current year’s presentation. Such reclassifications did not have a material impact on the operating results or financial position of FNCB.
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to change in the near term are the allowance for loan and lease losses (“ALLL”), the valuation and impairment evaluation of FNCB's investments, the valuation of other real estate owned (“OREO”), and income taxes.
Cash Equivalents
For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash equivalents include cash on hand and amounts due from banks. FNCB maintains compensating balances at correspondent banks, most of which are not required, but are used to offset specific charges for services. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the amount of these balances were $1.7 million and $4.5 million, respectively.
Securities
Debt Securities and Equity Securities with Readily Determinable Fair Values
FNCB classifies its investments in debt securities as either available-for-sale or held-to-maturity at the time of purchase. Debt securities that are classified as available-for-sale are carried at fair value with unrealized holding gains and losses recognized as a component of shareholders’ equity in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax. Debt securities that are classified as held-to-maturity are carried at amortized cost when management has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Premiums on callable debt securities are amortized to the earliest call date. Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts on noncallable debt securities is recognized over the life of the related security as an adjustment to yield using the interest method. Realized gains and losses on sales of debt securities are based on amortized cost using the specific identification method on the trade date. All of FNCB's debt securities were classified as available-for-sale at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are reported at fair value with net unrealized gains and losses recognized in the consolidated statements of income.
Fair values for debt securities and equity securities with readily determinable fair values are based upon quoted market prices, where available. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based upon quoted market prices of comparable instruments, or a discounted cash flow model using market estimates of interest rates and volatility.
Restricted Securities
Investments in restricted securities have limited marketability, are carried at cost and are evaluated for impairment based on FNCB’s determination of the ultimate recoverability of the par value of the stock. FNCB’s investment in restricted securities is comprised of stock in the Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") of Pittsburgh and Atlantic Community Bankers Bank ("ACBB").﻿
Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Values
Equity securities without readily determinable fair values generally consist of common and/or preferred stock of privately held financial institutions, which are carried at cost and included in other assets in the consolidated statements of financial condition. On a quarterly basis, management performs a qualitative assessment to determine if the securities are impaired. If the qualitative assessment indicates impairment, the security is written down to its fair value, with the charge for impairment included in net income.
Evaluation for Other Than Temporary Impairment
On a quarterly basis, management evaluates all securities in an unrealized loss position for other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”). An individual security is considered impaired when its current fair value is less than its amortized cost basis. As part of its evaluation, management considers the following factors, among other things, in determining whether the security’s impairment is other than temporary:
●
the length of time and extent of the impairment;
●
the causes of the decline in fair value, such as credit deterioration, interest rate fluctuations, or market volatility;
●
adverse industry or geographic conditions;
●
historical implied volatility;
●
payment structure of the security and whether FNCB expects to receive all contractual cash flows;
●
failure of the issuer to make contractual interest or principal payments in the past; and
●
changes in the security’s rating.
Based on current authoritative guidance, when a held-to-maturity or available-for-sale security is assessed for OTTI, management must first consider (a) whether it intends to sell the security and (b) whether it is more likely than not the FNCB will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost. If one of these circumstances applies to a security, an OTTI loss is recognized in the statement of income equal to the full amount of the decline in fair value below amortized cost. If neither of these circumstances applies to a security, but FNCB does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost, an OTTI loss has occurred that must be separated into two categories: (a) the amount related to credit loss and (b) the amount related to other factors (such as market risk). In assessing the level of OTTI attributable to credit loss, management compares the present value of cash flows expected to be collected with the amortized cost of the security. The portion of the total OTTI related to credit loss is identified as the amount of principal cash flows not expected to be received over the remaining term of the security as estimated based on cash flow projections discounted at the applicable original yield of the security, and is recognized in earnings, while the amount related to other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income. The total OTTI loss is presented in the statement of income less the portion recognized in other comprehensive income. When a debt security becomes other-than-temporarily impaired, its amortized cost basis is reduced to reflect the portion of the total impairment related to credit loss. The assessment of whether an OTTI decline exists involves a high degree of subjectivity and judgment that is based on information available to management at a point in time.
Loan and Lease Origination Fees and Costs
Loans and leases that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are stated at their outstanding unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized deferred loan fees and costs, any unearned income and partial charge-offs. Loans and leases receivable are presented net of the allowance for loan and lease losses in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Interest income on all loans is recognized using the effective interest method. Nonrefundable loan origination fees, as well as certain direct loan origination costs, are deferred and the net amount amortized over the contractual life of the related loan as an adjustment to yield using the effective interest method. Amortization of deferred loan fees or costs is discontinued when a loan is placed on non-accrual status.
Loans are placed on non-accrual status when a loan is specifically determined to be impaired or when management believes that the collection of interest or principal is doubtful. This generally occurs when a default of interest or principal has existed for 90 days or more, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection, or when management becomes aware of facts or circumstances that the loan would default before 90 days. FNCB determines delinquency status based on the number of days since the date of the borrower’s last required contractual loan payment. When the interest accrual is discontinued, all unpaid interest income is reversed and charged back against current earnings. Any subsequent cash payments received are applied, first to the outstanding principal balance, then to the recovery of any previously charged-off principal, with any excess treated as a recovery of lost interest. A non-accrual loan is returned to accrual status when the loan is current as to principal and interest payments, is performing according to contractual terms for six consecutive months and factors indicating reasonable doubt about the timely collection of payments no longer exist.
In accordance with federal regulations, prior to making, extending, renewing or advancing additional funds in excess of $500 thousand on a loan secured by real estate, FNCB requires an appraisal of the property by an independent, state-certified or state-licensed appraiser (depending upon collateral type and loan amount) that is approved by the Board of Directors. Appraisals are reviewed internally or by an independent third party engaged by FNCB. Generally, management obtains a new appraisal when a loan is deemed impaired. These appraisals may be more limited in scope than those obtained at the initial underwriting of the loan.
Troubled Debt Restructurings
FNCB considers a loan to be a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”) when it grants a concession to the borrower for legal or economic reasons related to the borrower’s financial difficulties that it would not otherwise consider. Such concessions granted generally involve a reduction of the stated interest rate, an extension of a loan’s stated maturity date, a payment modification under a forbearance agreement, a permanent reduction of the recorded investment in the loan, capitalization of real estate taxes, or a combination of these modifications. Non-accrual TDRs are returned to accrual status if principal and interest payments, under the modified terms, are brought current, are performing under the modified terms for six consecutive months, and management believes that collection of the remaining interest and principal is probable.
Loan Impairment
A loan is considered impaired when it is probable that FNCB will be unable to collect all amounts due (including principal and interest) according to the contractual terms of the note and loan agreement. For purposes of the analysis, all TDRs, loan relationships with an aggregate outstanding balance greater than $100 thousand rated substandard and non-accrual, and loans that are identified as doubtful or loss are considered impaired. Impaired loans are analyzed individually to determine the amount of impairment. For collateral-dependent loans, impairment is measured based on the fair value of the collateral supporting the loans. A loan is determined to be collateral dependent when repayment of the loan is expected to be provided through the operation or liquidation of the collateral held. For impaired loans that are secured by real estate, external appraisals are generally obtained annually, or more frequently as warranted, to ascertain a fair value so that the impairment analysis can be updated. Should a current appraisal not be available at the time of impairment analysis, other sources of valuation may be used including current letters of intent, broker price opinions or executed agreements of sale. For non-collateral dependent loans, impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows, net of any deferred fees and costs, discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate.
Generally, all loans with balances of $100 thousand or less are considered within homogeneous pools and are not individually evaluated for impairment. However, individual loans with balances of $100 thousand or less are individually evaluated for impairment if that loan is part of a larger impaired loan relationship or the loan is a TDR.
Impaired loans, or portions thereof, are charged-off upon determination that all or a portion of the loan balance is uncollectible and exceeds the fair value of the collateral. A loan is considered uncollectible when the borrower is delinquent with respect to principal or interest repayment and it is unlikely that the borrower will have the ability to pay the debt in a timely manner, collateral value is insufficient to cover the outstanding indebtedness and the guarantors (if applicable) do not provide adequate support for the loan.
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses
Management evaluates the credit quality of FNCB’s loan portfolio on an ongoing basis and performs a formal review of the adequacy of the ALLL on a quarterly basis. The ALLL is established through a provision for loan losses charged to earnings and is maintained at a level that management considers adequate to absorb estimated probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the evaluation date. Loans, or portions of loans, determined by management to be uncollectible are charged off against the ALLL, while recoveries of amounts previously charged off are credited to the ALLL.
Determining the amount of the ALLL is considered a critical accounting estimate because it requires significant judgment and the use of estimates related to the amount and timing of expected future cash flows on impaired loans, estimated losses on pools of homogeneous loans based on historical loss experience, qualitative factors, and consideration of current economic trends and conditions, all of which may be susceptible to significant change. Banking regulators, as an integral part of their examination of FNCB, also review the ALLL, and may require, based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination, that certain loan balances be charged off or require that adjustments be made to the ALLL. Additionally, the ALLL is determined, in part, by the composition and size of the loan portfolio.
FNCB's allowance methodology consists primarily of two components, a specific component and a general component. The specific component relates to loans that are classified as impaired. For such loans, an allowance is established when the discounted cash flows, collateral value or observable market price of the impaired loan is lower than the carrying value of that loan. The general component covers all other loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted by qualitative factors. The general reserve component of the ALLL is based on pools of unimpaired loans segregated by loan segment and risk rating categories of “Pass”, “Special Mention” or “Substandard and Accruing.” Historical loss factors and various qualitative factors are applied based on the risk profile in each risk rating category to determine the appropriate reserve related to those loans. Substandard loans on non-accrual status above the $100 thousand loan relationship threshold and all loans considered TDRs are classified as impaired. Based on its evaluation, management may establish an unallocated component that is used to cover any inherent losses that exist as of the evaluation date, but which may not have been identified under the methodology.
When establishing the ALLL, management categorizes loans into the following loan segments that are based generally on the nature of the collateral and basis of repayment. The risk characteristics of FNCB’s loan segments are as follows:
Construction, Land Acquisition and Development - These loans consist of loans secured by real estate, with the purpose of constructing one- to four-family homes, residential developments and various commercial properties including shopping centers, office complexes and single-purpose, owner-occupied structures. Additionally, loans in this category include loans for land acquisition, secured by raw land. FNCB’s construction program offers either short-term, interest-only loans that require the borrower to pay only interest during the construction phase with a balloon payment of the principal outstanding at the end of the construction period or only interest during construction with a conversion to amortizing principal and interest when the construction is complete. Loans for undeveloped real estate are subject to a loan-to-value ratio not to exceed 65%. Construction loans are treated similarly to the developed real estate loans and are subject to a maximum loan to value ratio of 85% based upon an “as-completed” appraised value. Construction loans generally yield a higher interest rate than other mortgage loans but also carry more risk.
Commercial Real Estate - These loans represent the largest portion of FNCB’s total loan portfolio and loans in this portfolio generally carry larger loan balances. The commercial real estate mortgage loan portfolio consists of owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied properties that are secured by a broad range of real estate, including but not limited to, office complexes, shopping centers, hotels, warehouses, gas stations, convenience markets, residential care facilities, nursing care facilities, restaurants and multifamily housing. FNCB offers commercial real estate loans at various rates and terms that do not exceed 25 years. These types of loans are subject to specific loan-to-value guidelines prior to the time of closing. The policy limits for developed real estate loans are subject to a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 85%. Commercial mortgage loans must also meet specific criteria that include the capacity, capital, credit worthiness and cash flow of the borrower and the project being financed. Potential borrower(s) and guarantor(s) are required to provide FNCB with historical and current financial data. As part of the underwriting process for commercial real estate loans, management performs a review of the cash flow analysis of the borrower(s), guarantor(s) and the project in addition to considering the borrower’s expertise, credit history, net worth and the value of the underlying property.
Commercial and Industrial - FNCB offers commercial loans at various rates and terms to businesses located in its primary market area. The commercial loan portfolio includes revolving lines of credit, automobile floor plans, equipment loans, vehicle loans, improvement loans and term loans. These loans generally carry a higher risk than commercial real estate loans by the nature of the underlying collateral, which can be machinery and equipment, inventory, accounts receivable, vehicles or marketable securities. Generally, a collateral lien is placed on the collateral supporting the loan. To reduce the risk associated with these loans, management may attempt to secure real estate as collateral and obtain personal guarantees of the borrower as deemed necessary.
State and Political Subdivision - FNCB originates general obligation notes, municipal leases and tax anticipation loans to state and political subdivisions, which are primarily municipalities in FNCB’s market area.
Residential Real Estate - FNCB offers fixed-rate 1 - 4 family residential loans. Residential first lien mortgages are generally subject to an 80% loan to value ratio based on the appraised value of the property. FNCB will generally require the mortgagee to purchase Private Mortgage Insurance if the amount of the loan exceeds the 80% loan to value ratio. Residential mortgage loans are generally smaller in size and are considered homogeneous as they exhibit similar characteristics. FNCB may sell loans and retain servicing when warranted by market conditions. FNCB offers home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (“HELOCs”) with a maximum combined loan-to-value ratio of 90% based on the appraised value of the property. Home equity loans have fixed rates of interest and carry terms up to 15 years. HELOCs have adjustable interest rates and are based upon the national prime interest rate. Residential mortgage loans, including home equity loans, are generally smaller in size and are considered homogeneous as they exhibit similar characteristics.
Consumer - FNCB offers both secured and unsecured installment loans, personal lines of credit and overdraft protection loans. FNCB is in the business of underwriting indirect auto loans which are originated through various auto dealers in northeastern Pennsylvania and dealer floor plan loans. Consumer loans are generally smaller in size and exhibit homogeneous characteristics.
Off-Balance-Sheet Credit-Related Financial Instruments
FNCB is a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing need of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit, unused portions of lines of credit, including revolving HELOCs, and letters of credit. FNCB’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument is represented by the contractual notional amount of these instruments. FNCB uses the same credit policies in making these commitments as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. In order to provide for probable losses inherent in these instruments, FNCB records a reserve for unfunded commitments, included in other liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial condition, with the offsetting expense recorded in other operating expenses in the consolidated statements of income.
Mortgage Banking Activities, Loan Sales and Servicing
Mortgage loans originated and held for sale are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or fair value determined on an individual loan basis. Net unrealized losses are recorded as a valuation allowance and charged to earnings. Gains and losses on sales of mortgage loans are based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related loan sold and include the value assigned to the rights to service the loan.
FNCB may also elect to sell the guaranteed principal balance of loans that are guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) and retain the servicing on those loans.
Servicing rights are recorded at fair value upon sale of the loan and reported in other assets on the consolidated statements of financial condition. Servicing rights are amortized in proportion to and over the period during which estimated servicing income will be received.
Fair value is based on market prices for comparable servicing contracts, when available, or alternately, is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income. The valuation model incorporates assumptions that market participants would use in estimating future net servicing income, such as the cost to service, the discount rate, the custodial earnings rate, an inflation rate, ancillary income, prepayment speeds and default rates and losses.
Servicing rights are evaluated for impairment at each reporting date based upon the fair value of the rights as compared to amortized cost. Impairment is determined by stratifying rights into tranches based on predominant risk characteristics, such as interest rate, loan type and investor type. Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for an individual tranche, to the extent that fair value is less than the capitalized amount for the tranche. If management later determines that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular tranche, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded as an increase to income.
Other Real Estate Owned
OREO consists of property acquired by foreclosure, abandonment or conveyance of deed in-lieu of foreclosure of a loan, and bank premises that are no longer used for operations or for future expansion. OREO is held for sale and is initially recorded at fair value less estimated costs to sell at the date of acquisition or transfer, which establishes a new cost basis. Upon acquisition of the property through foreclosure or deed in-lieu of foreclosure, any adjustment to fair value less estimated selling costs is recorded to the ALLL. The determination is made on an individual asset basis. Bank premises no longer used for operations or future expansion are transferred to OREO at fair value less estimated selling costs with any related write-down included in non-interest expense. Subsequent to acquisition, valuations are periodically performed, and the assets are carried at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated cost to sell. Fair value is determined through external appraisals, current letters of intent, broker price opinions or executed agreements of sale, unless management determines that conditions exist that warrant an adjustment to the value. Costs relating to the development and improvement of the OREO properties may be capitalized; holding period costs and any subsequent changes to the valuation allowance are charged to expense as incurred.
Bank Premises and Equipment
Land is stated at cost. Bank premises, equipment and leasehold improvements are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Costs for routine maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred, while significant expenditures for improvements are capitalized. Depreciation expense is computed generally using the straight-line method over the following ranges of estimated useful lives, or in the case of leasehold improvements, to the expected terms of the leases, if shorter:
Buildings and improvements (years)
5 to 40
Furniture, fixtures and equipment (years)
3 to 20
Leasehold improvements (years)
3 to 35
Long-lived Assets
Intangible assets and bank premises and equipment are reviewed by management at least annually for potential impairment and whenever events or circumstances indicate that carrying amounts may not be recoverable.
Income Taxes
FNCB recognizes income taxes under the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more-likely-than-not that all or some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
FNCB files a consolidated federal income tax return. Under tax sharing agreements, each subsidiary provides for and settles income taxes with FNCB as if it would have filed on a separate return basis. Interest and penalties, if any, as a result of a taxing authority examination are recognized within non-interest expense. FNCB is not currently subject to an audit by any of its tax authorities and with limited exception is no longer subject to federal and state income tax examinations by taxing authorities for years before 2018.
When tax returns are filed, it is highly certain that some positions taken would be sustained upon examination by the taxing authorities, while others are subject to uncertainty about the merits of the position taken or the amount of the position that would be ultimately sustained. The benefit of a tax position is recognized in the financial statements in the period during which, based on all available evidence, management believes it is more-likely-than-not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including the resolution of appeals or litigation processes, if any. Tax positions taken are not offset or aggregated with other positions. Tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold are measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefits associated with tax positions taken that exceeds the amount measured as described above is reflected as a liability for unrecognized tax benefits along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon examination. Management determined that FNCB had no liabilities for uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Earnings per Share
Earnings per share is calculated on the basis of the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Basic earnings per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share reflect additional shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential common shares had been issued. Potential common shares that may be issued by FNCB relate to shares of unvested restricted stock for which the dilutive effect is calculated using the treasury stock method.
Stock-Based Compensation
FNCB recognizes all share-based payments for compensation in the consolidated statements of income based on their fair values on the grant date. The fair value of shares of unrestricted and restricted stock and awarded under the Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan (“LTIP”) is determined using an average of the high and low prices for FNCB’s common stock for the 10 days preceding the grant date. Stock-based compensation expense for unrestricted stock is recognized on the grant date. For restricted stock, stock-based compensation expense is recognized ratably over the vesting period, adjusted for forfeitures during the period in which they occur.
Bank-Owned Life Insurance
Bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”) represents the cash surrender value of life insurance policies on certain current and former directors and officers of FNCB. FNCB purchased the insurance as a tax-deferred investment and future source of funding for liabilities, including the payment of employee benefits such as health care. BOLI is carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at its cash surrender value. Increases in the cash value of the policies, as well as proceeds received, are recorded in non-interest income. Under some of these policies, the beneficiaries receive a portion of the death benefit. The net present value of the future death benefits scheduled to be paid to the beneficiaries was $99 thousand and $116 thousand at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, and is reflected in other liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Fair Value Measurement
FNCB uses fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain financial assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. Available-for-sale debt securities and derivative contracts are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. Additionally, from time to time, FNCB may be required to recognize adjustments to other assets at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, such as impaired loans, other securities, and OREO.
Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. An orderly transaction is a transaction that assumes exposure to the market for a period prior to the measurement date to allow for marketing activities that are usual and customary for transactions involving such assets or liabilities; it is not a forced transaction.
Accounting standards define fair value, establish a framework for measuring fair value, establish a three-level hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurement and provide disclosure requirements about fair value measurements. The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability as of the measurement date.
The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are:
●
Level 1 valuation is based upon unadjusted quoted market prices for identical instruments traded in active markets;
●
Level 2 valuation is based upon quoted market prices for similar instruments traded in active markets, quoted market prices for identical or similar instruments traded in markets that are not active and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market or can be corroborated by market data; and
●
Level 3 valuation is derived from other valuation methodologies including discounted cash flow models and similar techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in determining fair value.
Revenue Recognition
FNCB recognizes revenues as they are earned based on contractual terms, as transactions occur, or as services are provided and collectability is reasonably assured. FNCB's primary source of revenue is interest income from the Bank's loans and investment securities, which is recognized on the accrual basis primarily on terms in written contracts such as loan agreements or securities contracts. FNCB also earns non-interest income from various banking services offered by the Bank and other transactions as follows:
●
Deposit service charges - include general service fees for monthly account maintenance, account analysis fees, non-sufficient funds fees, wire transfer fees and other deposit account related fees. Revenue is recognized when FNCB’s performance obligation is completed which is generally monthly for account maintenance services or when a transaction has been completed (such as a wire transfer). Payment for service charges on deposit accounts is received immediately or in the following month through a direct charge to customers’ accounts. Also included in deposit service charges is income from ATM surcharges and debit card services income. ATM surcharges are generated when an FNCB cardholder uses an ATM that is not within the AllPoint ATM network or a non-FNCB cardholder uses an FNCB ATM. Card services income is primarily comprised of interchange fees earned whenever a customer uses an FNCB debit card as payment for goods and/or services through a card payment network such as Mastercard®/Visa®. FNCB’s performance obligation is satisfied on a daily basis as transactions are processed. FNCB recognizes ATM surcharges and card services income as transactions with merchants are settled, generally on a daily basis.
● Net gains on the sale of available-for-sale debt securities - Gains or losses realized from the sale of available-for-sale debt securities are recorded to non-interest income on the settlement date.
● Net gains on the sale of mortgage loans held for sale - Gains or losses realizd on the sale of mortgages held for sale are recorded to non-interest income on the settlement date.
●
Net gains on the sale of other real estate owned - FNCB records a gain or loss from the sale of OREO when control of the property transfers to the buyer, which generally occurs at the time of an executed deed. When FNCB finances the sale of OREO to the buyer, FNCB assesses whether the buyer is committed to perform their obligations under the contract and whether collectability of the transaction price is probable. Once these criteria are met, the OREO asset is derecognized and the gain or loss on sale is recorded upon the transfer of control of the property to the buyer. In determining the gain or loss on the sale, FNCB adjusts the transaction prices and related gain (loss) on sale if a significant financing component is present.
● Loan referral fees/interest rate swap revenue - Loan referral fees represent fees FNCB receives from a third-party correspondent bank for referring certain qualified borrowers to their proprietary loan participation swap program. Interest rate swap revenue represent net fees FNCB receives from a counterparty for completing the swap transaction with the counterparty directly. FNCB receives both types of fees at the time the loan closes. The fees are non-refundable and are not tied to the loan and FNCB has no future obligations to the correspondent under the participation agreement related to such fees. FNCB records referral fees/interest rate swap revenue in non-interest income upon receipt.
●
Other income - primarily includes wealth management fee income, merchant services fee income and title insurance revenue. Wealth management fee income represents fees received from a third-party broker-dealer as part of a revenue-sharing agreement for fees earned from customers that we refer to the third party. Merchant services fees represent commissions received from the major payment networks such as VISA®/Mastercard® on activity generated by customers on their merchant account. Wealth management and merchant services fee income are transactional in nature and are recognized in income monthly when FNCB’s performance obligation is complete, which is generally the time that payment is received. With regard to title insurance revenue, FNCB is a member in a limited liability company that provides title insurance services to customers referred by member financial institutions. In accordance with an operating agreement, the title insurance company makes quarterly discretionary distributions to member institutions on a pro-rata basis based on their respective membership interest percentage at the time of distribution. FNCB’s performance obligation under the operating agreement was satisfied with its capital contribution. There are no future minimum referral quotas required under the operating agreement. FNCB records revenue from quarterly distributions at the time of receipt.
Comprehensive Income
Accounting principles generally require that recognized revenue, expenses, gains and losses be included in net income. Although certain changes in assets and liabilities, such as unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, are reported as a separate component of the shareholders’ equity section of the statement of financial condition, such items, along with net income, are components of comprehensive income.
New Authoritative Accounting Guidance
Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): “Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting,” provides optional guidance for a limited period of time to ease the potential burden in accounting for (or recognizing the effects of) reference rate reform on financial reporting. It provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying generally accepted accounting principles to contracts, hedging relationships and other transactions affected by reference rate reform if certain criteria are met. The amendments in ASU 2020-04 were effective upon issuance. On January 7, 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848) that clarifies that certain optional expedients and exceptions provided for in ASU 2020-04 also apply to derivatives that do not reference a rate that is being discontinued but otherwise are affected by reference rate reform. ASU 2021-01 clarifies that changes in the interest rates used for margining, discounting, or contract price alignment for derivative instruments that are being implemented as part of the market-wide transition to new reference rates, commonly referred to as the "discounting transition," are within the scope of Topic 848. ASU 2021-01 was effective upon issuance. As part of its overall evaluation of reference rate reform, management is still evaluating the impact that LIBOR replacement will have on FNCB's operating results and financial position. Any such impacts will be prospective in nature and may affect net interest income and fair value estimates after the effective date of such rate replacement. The LIBOR replacement is not expected to have a material effect on the operating results or financial position of FNCB.
Accounting Guidance to be Adopted in Future Periods
ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” replaces the current loss impairment methodology under GAAP with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to form credit loss estimates in an effort to provide financial statement users with more decision-useful information about the expected credit losses on financial instruments and other commitments to extend credit. ASU 2016-13 is commonly referred to as Current Expected Credit Losses ("CECL") and will require a financial asset (or a group of financial assets) measured at amortized cost basis to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The amendments in this update affect entities holding financial assets and net investment in leases that are not accounted for at fair value through net income, including such financial assets as loans, debt securities, trade receivables, net investments in leases, off-balance-sheet credit exposures, reinsurance receivables, and any other financial assets not excluded from the scope that have the contractual right to receive cash. On June 17, 2016, the four, federal financial institution regulatory agencies (the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the National Credit Union Administration and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency), issued a joint statement to provide information about ASU 2016-13 and the initial supervisory views regarding the implementation of the new standard. The joint statement applies to all banks, savings associations, credit unions and financial institution holding companies, regardless of asset size. The statement details the key elements of, and the steps necessary for, the successful transition to the new accounting standard. In addition, the statement notifies financial institutions that because the appropriate allowance levels are institution-specific amounts, the agencies will not establish benchmark targets or ranges for the change in institutions’ allowance levels upon adoption of the ASU, or for allowance levels going forward. Due to the importance of ASU 2016-13, the agencies encourage financial institutions to begin planning and preparing for the transition and state that senior management, under the oversight of the board of directors, should work closely with staff in their accounting, lending, credit risk management, internal audit, and information technology functions during the transition period leading up to, and well after, adoption. ASU 2016-13 was originally effective for public business entities that are registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including smaller reporting companies, for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. All entities may adopt the amendments in this ASU earlier as of the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. On November 15, 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2019-10, "Credit Losses (Topic 326), Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815), and Leases (Topic 842): Effective Dates," which finalized various effective dates delay for private companies, not-for-profit organizations, and certain smaller reporting companies. Specifically, under ASU 2019-10 the effective date for implementation of CECL for smaller reporting companies, private companies and not-for-profits was extended to fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2022. FNCB is a smaller reporting company, and accordingly, will adopt this guidance on January 1, 2023. FNCB has created a CECL task group comprised of members of its finance, credit administration, lending, internal audit, loan operations and information systems units. The CECL task group understands the provisions of ASU 2016-13 and is currently in the process of implementing the new guidance, which includes, but is not limited to: (1) identifying segments and sub-segments within the loan portfolio that have similar risk characteristics; (2) determining the appropriate methodology for each segment; (3) implementing changes that are necessary to its core operating system and interfaces to be able to capture appropriate data requirements; and (4) evaluating qualitative factors and economic to develop appropriate forecasts for integration into the model. FNCB is currently evaluating the effect this guidance may have on its operating results and/or financial position, including assessing any potential impact on its capital.
ASU 2020-01 Investments - Investments-Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments-Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815). The new guidance addresses accounting for the transition into and out of the equity method and measuring certain purchase options and forward contracts to acquire investments. If a company is applying the measurement alternative for an equity investment under ASC 321 and must transition to the equity method, or if applying the equity method and must transition to ASC 321; because of an observable transaction, it will remeasure its investment immediately before transition. If a company holds certain non-derivative forward contracts or purchased call options to acquire equity securities, such instruments generally will be measured using the fair value principles of ASC 321 before settlement or exercise. ASU 2020-01 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2020 for public business entities, a﻿nd for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021 for all other entities. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2022 is not expected to have a material effect on the operating results or financial position of FNCB.
Note 3. SECURITIES
Debt Securities
The following tables present the amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, and the fair value of FNCB’s available-for-sale debt securities at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
December 31, 2021
Gross
Gross
Unrealized
Unrealized
Amortized
Holding
Holding
Fair
(in thousands)
Cost
Gains
Losses
Value
Available-for-sale debt securities:
U.S. Treasury
$ 36,751 $ 1 $ 397 $ 36,355
Obligations of state and political subdivisions
235,489 9,651 768 244,372
U.S. government/government-sponsored agencies:
Collateralized mortgage obligations - residential
101,321 1,158 1,769 100,710
Collateralized mortgage obligations - commercial
3,685 87 45 3,727
Mortgage-backed securities
25,467 263 224 25,506
Private collateralized mortgage obligations
68,137 60 1,032 67,165
Corporate debt securities
31,300 940 177 32,063
Asset-backed securities
11,907 42 17 11,932
Negotiable certificates of deposit
744 - 8 736
Total available-for-sale debt securities
$ 514,801 $ 12,202 $ 4,437 $ 522,566
December 31, 2020
Gross
Gross
Unrealized
Unrealized
Amortized
Holding
Holding
Fair
(in thousands)
Cost
Gains
Losses
Value
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Obligations of state and political subdivisions
$ 192,851 $ 13,012 $ 35 $ 205,828
U.S. government/government-sponsored agencies:
Collateralized mortgage obligations - residential
54,091 2,940 59 56,972
Collateralized mortgage obligations - commercial
3,721 183 - 3,904
Mortgage-backed securities
12,452 588 14 13,026
Private collateralized mortgage obligations
37,926 352 79 38,199
Corporate debt securities
23,800 790 10 24,580
Asset-backed securities
7,505 46 25 7,526
Negotiable certificates of deposit
- - - -
Total available-for-sale debt securities
$ 332,346 $ 17,911 $ 222 $ 350,035
Except for securities of U.S. government and government-sponsored agencies, there were no securities of any individual issuer that exceeded 10.0% of shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2021 or 2020.
The following table presents the maturity information of FNCB’s available-for-sale debt securities at December 31, 2021. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturity because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Because collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities are not due at a single maturity date, they are not included in the maturity categories in the following maturity summary.
December 31, 2021
Amortized
Fair
(in thousands)
Cost
Value
Available -for-sale debt securities:
Amounts maturing in:
One year or less
$ 749 $ 760
After one year through five years
74,425 77,529
After five years through ten years
94,945 95,781
After ten years
134,165 139,456
Collateralized mortgage obligations
173,143 171,602
Mortgage-backed securities
25,467 25,506
Asset-backed securities
11,907 11,932
Total
$ 514,801 $ 522,566
The following table presents the gross proceeds received and gross realized gains and losses on the sale and redemption of available-for-sale debt securities for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Gross proceeds received on sales
$ 2,981 $ 68,256
Gross proceeds received on redemption
1,000 1,015
Gross realized gains on sales
213 1,686
Gross realized losses on sales
- (173 )
Gross realized gain on redemption
- 15
The following tables present the number, fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2021 and 2020, aggregated by investment category and length of time the securities have been in an unrealized loss position.
December 31, 2021
Less than 12 Months
12 Months or Longer
Total
Number
Gross
Number
Gross
Number
Gross
of
Fair
Unrealized
of
Fair
Unrealized
of
Fair
Unrealized
(dollars in thousands)
Securities
Value
Losses
Securities
Value
Losses
Securities
Value
Losses
U.S. Treasuries
16 $ 35,394 $ 397 - $ - $ - 16 $ 35,394 $ 397
Obligations of state and political subdivisions
41 36,107 702 2 1,257 66 43 37,364 768
U.S. government/government-sponsored agencies:
Collateralized mortgage obligations - residential
20 58,848 1,530 2 5,713 239 22 64,561 1,769
Collateralized mortgage obligations - commercial
1 1,632 45 - - - 1 1,632 45
Mortgage-backed securities
6 14,585 204 1 1,596 20 7 16,181 224
Private collateralized mortgage obligations
22 44,425 897 3 6,213 135 25 50,638 1,032
Corporate debt securities
9 7,643 107 2 2,180 70 11 9,823 177
Asset-backed securities
4 3,810 14 2 1,293 3 6 5,103 17
Negotiable certificates of deposit
3 736 8 - - - 3 736 8
Total
122 $ 203,180 $ 3,904 12 $ 18,252 $ 533 134 $ 221,432 $ 4,437
December 31, 2020
Less than 12 Months
12 Months or Longer
Total
Number
Gross
Number
Gross
Number
Gross
of
Fair
Unrealized
of
Fair
Unrealized
of
Fair
Unrealized
(dollars in thousands)
Securities
Value
Losses
Securities
Value
Losses
Securities
Value
Losses
Obligations of state and political subdivisions
6 $ 4,541 $ 35 - $ - $ - 6 $ 4,541 $ 35
U.S. government/government-sponsored agencies:
Collateralized mortgage obligations - residential
2 7,019 59 - - - 2 7,019 59
Collateralized mortgage obligations - commercial
- - - - - - - - -
Mortgage-backed securities
1 2,103 14 - - - 1 2,103 14
Private collateralized mortgage obligations
3 7,857 42 1 2,256 37 4 10,113 79
Corporate debt securities
2 1,739 10 - - - 2 1,739 10
Asset-backed securities
2 746 13 1 1,591 12 3 2,337 25
Total
16 $ 24,005 $ 173 2 $ 3,847 $ 49 18 $ 27,852 $ 222
Management evaluates individual securities in an unrealized loss position quarterly for OTTI. As part of its evaluation, management considers, among other things, the length of time a security’s fair value is less than its amortized cost, the severity of decline, any credit deterioration of the issuer, whether or not management intends to sell the security, and whether it is more likely than not that FNCB will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost.
Management performed a review of all securities in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2021 and determined that movements in the fair values of the securities were consistent with changes in market interest rates or market disruption stemming from the COVID-19 global pandemic. In addition, as part of its review, management noted that there was no material change in the credit quality of any of the issuers or any other event or circumstance that may cause a significant adverse effect on the fair value of these securities. Moreover, to date, FNCB has received all scheduled principal and interest payments and expects to fully collect all future contractual principal and interest payments on all securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2021. FNCB does not intend to sell the securities, nor is it more likely than not that it will be required to sell the securities, prior to recovery of their amortized cost. Based on the results of its review and considering the attributes of these debt securities, management concluded that the individual unrealized losses were temporary and OTTI did not exist at December 31, 2021.
Equity Securities
Included in equity securities with readily determinable fair values at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 were investments in the common or preferred stock of publicly traded bank holding companies and an investment in a mutual fund comprised of 1-4 family residential mortgage-backed security collateralized by properties within FNCB's market area. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are reported at fair value with net unrealized gains and losses recognized in the consolidated statements of income.
The following table presents unrealized and realized gains and losses recognized in net income on equity securities for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Net gain recognized on equity securities
$ 701 $ 1,171
Less: net gains recognized on equity securities sold/acquired
- 611
Unrealized gain recognized on equity securities
$ 701 $ 560
Equity Securities and Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value
At December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, equity securities without readily determinable fair values consisted of a $500 thousand investment in a fixed-rate, non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock of a privately-held bank holding company, which is included in other assets in the consolidated statement of financial condition. The preferred stock pays quarterly dividends at an annual rate of 8.25%, which commenced on March 30, 2021. The preferred stock of this bank holding company is not traded on any established market and is accounted for as an equity security without a determinable fair value. Under GAAP, an equity security without a readily determinable fair value shall be written down to its fair values if a qualitative assessment indicates that the investment is impaired, and the fair value of the investment is less than its carrying value. As part of its qualitative assessment, management engaged an independent third party to provide valuations of this investment as of December 31, 2021 & 2020, which indicated that the investment was not impaired. Accordingly, management determined that no adjustment for impairment was required at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.
Restricted Securities
The following table presents FNCB's investment in restricted securities at December 31, 2021 and 2020. Restricted securities have limited marketability and are carried at cost. Management noted no indicators of impairment for FHLB of Pittsburgh or ACBB stock at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
December 31,
(in thousands)
Stock in Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh
$ 1,901 $ 1,735
Stock in Atlantic Community Bankers Bank
10 10
Total restricted securities, at cost
$ 1,911 $ 1,745
Note 4. LOANS AND LEASES
The following table summarizes loans and leases receivable, net, by major category at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
December 31,
(in thousands)
Residential real estate
$ 234,113 $ 196,328
Commercial real estate
366,009 273,903
Construction, land acquisition and development
41,646 59,785
Commercial and industrial
193,086 238,435
Consumer
85,522 85,881
State and political subdivisions
61,071 49,009
Total loans and leases, gross
981,447 903,341
Unearned income
(1,442 ) (110 )
Net deferred origination fees
(566 ) (2,129 )
Allowance for loan and lease losses
(12,416 ) (11,950 )
Loans and leases, net
$ 967,023 $ 889,152
Included in commercial and industrial loans and leases at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 were $21.9 million and $78.6 million, respectively, of loans originated under the Small Business Administration ("SBA") Payment Protection Program ("PPP"). Included in net deferred origination fees at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, were $1.0 million and $2.6 million, respectively, in deferred origination fees, net of deferred loan origination costs, associated with the PPP Loans. PPP loans are 100.0% guaranteed and may be forgiven by the SBA. Accordingly, there was no ALLL established for PPP loans at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
In 2021, management expanded FNCB's commercial credit product offerings to include commercial equipment financing, through simple interest loans, direct finance leases and municipal leases. There were no direct finance leases originated in 2021. Simple loans and municipal leases originated under this initiative were $7.9 million and $2.4 million, respecitively. Simple interest loans are included in commercial and industrial loans, while municipal leases are included with state and political subdivision loans.
FNCB has granted loans, letters of credit and lines of credit to certain of its executive officers and directors as well as to certain of their related parties. For more information about related party transactions, refer to Note 11, “Related Party Transactions” to these consolidated financial statements.
For information about credit concentrations within FNCB’s loan portfolio, refer to Note 12, “Commitments, Contingencies and Concentrations” to these consolidated financial statements.
FNCB originates 1- 4 family residential mortgage loans for sale in the secondary market. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, 1 - 4 family residential mortgages sold on the secondary market were $9.4 million and $13.9 million, respectively. Net gains on the sale of residential mortgage loans were $352 thousand in 2021 and $653 thousand in 2020. FNCB retains servicing rights on mortgages sold in the secondary market. There were no 1-4 family residential mortgage loans held for sale at December 31, 2021. At December 31, 2020 1-4 family residential mortgage loans held for sale were $2.1 million.
There were no sales of SBA-guaranteed loans during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. The unpaid principal balance of loans serviced for others, including residential mortgages and SBA-guaranteed loans were $77.2 million and $96.5 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
FNCB does not have any lending programs commonly referred to as "subprime lending". Subprime lending generally targets borrowers with weakened credit histories typically characterized by payment delinquencies, previous charge-offs, judgments, and bankruptcies, or borrowers with questionable repayment capacity as evidenced by low credit scores or high debt-burden ratios.
FNCB provides for loan and lease losses based on the consistent application of its documented ALLL methodology. Loan and lease losses are charged to the ALLL and recoveries are credited to it. Additions to the ALLL are provided by charges against income based on various factors which, in management’s judgment, deserve current recognition of estimated probable losses. Loan and lease losses are charged-off in the period the loans, or portions thereof, are deemed uncollectible. Generally, FNCB will record a loan charge-off (including a partial charge-off) to reduce a loan to the estimated recoverable amount based on its methodology detailed below. Management regularly reviews the loan portfolio and makes adjustments for loan losses in order to maintain the ALLL in accordance with GAAP. The ALLL consists primarily of the following two components:
(1)
Specific allowances are established for impaired loans, which FNCB defines as all loan relationships with an aggregate outstanding balance greater than $100 thousand rated substandard and on non-accrual, loans rated doubtful or loss, and all TDRs. The amount of impairment provided for as an allowance is represented by the deficiency, if any, between the carrying value of the loan and either (a) the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, (b) the loan’s observable market price, or (c) the fair value of the underlying collateral, less estimated costs to sell, for collateral dependent loans. Impaired loans that have no impairment losses are not considered in the establishment of general valuation allowances as described below. If management determines that collection of the impairment amount is remote, a charge-off will be recorded for the impairment amount.
(2)
General allowances are established for loan losses on a portfolio basis for loans that do not meet the definition of impaired. FNCB divides its portfolio into loan segments for loans exhibiting similar characteristics. Loans rated special mention or substandard and accruing, which are embedded in these loan segments, are then separated from these loan segments, as these loans are subject to an analysis that emphasizes the credit risk associated with these loans. An estimated loss rate is then applied to each loan segment, which are based on FNCB’s own historical loss experience for each respective loan segment. In addition, management evaluates and applies to each loan segment certain qualitative or environmental factors that are likely to cause estimated credit losses associated with FNCB’s existing portfolio to differ from historical experience, which are discussed below. For loans that have an internal credit rating of special mention or substandard, the qualitative and environmental factors are further adjusted for the increased risk.
In addition to the specific and general components, management may establish an unallocated allowance that is used to cover any inherent losses that exist as of the evaluation date, but which may have not been identified under the methodology.
As part of its evaluation, management considers qualitative and environmental factors, including, but not limited to:
●
changes in national, local, and business economic conditions and developments, including the condition of various market segments;
●
changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio;
●
changes in lending policies and procedures, including underwriting standards, collection, charge-off and recovery practices and results;
●
changes in the experience, ability and depth of lending management and staff;
●
changes in the quality of the loan review system and the degree of oversight by the Board of Directors;
●
changes in the trend of the volume and severity of past due and classified loans, including trends in the volume of non-accrual loans, TDRs and other loan modifications;
●
the existence and effect of any concentrations of credit and changes in the level of such concentrations;
●
the effect of external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated credit losses in the current loan portfolio; and
●
analysis of customers’ credit quality, including knowledge of their operating environment and financial condition.
Management evaluates the credit quality of the loan portfolio on an ongoing basis and performs a formal review of the adequacy of the ALLL on a quarterly basis. This evaluation is inherently subjective, as it requires material estimates that may be susceptible to significant revisions based upon changes in economic and real estate market conditions. However, actual loan losses may be significantly more than the established ALLL, which could have a material negative effect on FNCB’s operating results or financial condition. While management uses the best information available to make its evaluations, future adjustments to the ALLL may be necessary if conditions differ substantially from the information used in making the evaluations. Banking regulators, as an integral part of their examination of FNCB, also review the ALLL, and may require, based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination, that certain loan balances be charged off or require that adjustments be made to the ALLL.
The following tables present, by major category, the activity in the ALLL and the allocation of the ALLL and the related loan balance disaggregated based on impairment methodology at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses by Loan Category
December 31, 2021
(in thousands)
Residential Real Estate
Commercial Real Estate
Construction, Land Acquisition and Development
Commercial and Industrial
Consumer
State and Political Subdivisions
Unallocated
Total
Allowance for loan and lease losses:
Beginning balance, January 1, 2021
$ 1,715 $ 4,268 $ 538 $ 2,619 $ 1,319 $ 405 $ 1,086 $ 11,950
Charge-offs
(14 ) (11 ) - (218 ) (543 ) - - (786 )
Recoveries
17 467 13 74 515 - - 1,086
Provisions (credits)
363 (194 ) (159 ) 195 (132 ) 50 43 166
Ending balance, December 31, 2021
$ 2,081 $ 4,530 $ 392 $ 2,670 $ 1,159 $ 455 $ 1,129 $ 12,416
Specific reserve
$ 9 $ 6 $ - $ 11 $ - $ - $ - $ 26
General reserve
$ 2,072 $ 4,524 $ 392 $ 2,659 $ 1,159 $ 455 $ 1,129 $ 12,390
Loans and leases receivable:
Individually evaluated for impairment
$ 1,681 $ 7,530 $ - $ 762 $ - $ - $ - $ 9,973
Collectively evaluated for impairment
232,432 358,479 41,646 192,324 85,522 61,071 - 971,474
Total loans and leases, gross at December 31, 2021
$ 234,113 $ 366,009 $ 41,646 $ 193,086 $ 85,522 $ 61,071 $ - $ 981,447
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses by Loan Category
December 31, 2020
(in thousands)
Residential Real Estate
Commercial Real Estate
Construction, Land Acquisition and Development
Commercial and Industrial
Consumer
State and Political Subdivisions
Unallocated
Total
Allowance for loan and lease losses:
Beginning balance, January 1, 2020
$ 1,147 $ 3,198 $ 271 $ 1,997 $ 1,658 $ 253 $ 426 $ 8,950
Charge-offs
- (336 ) - (254 ) (975 ) - - (1,565 )
Recoveries
43 846 - 1,220 515 - - 2,624
Provisions (credits)
525 560 267 (344 ) 121 152 660 1,941
Ending balance, December 31, 2020
$ 1,715 $ 4,268 $ 538 $ 2,619 $ 1,319 $ 405 $ 1,086 $ 11,950
Specific reserve
$ 13 $ 46 $ - $ 357 $ - $ - $ - $ 416
General reserve
$ 1,702 $ 4,222 $ 538 $ 2,262 $ 1,319 $ 405 $ 1,086 $ 11,534
Loans and leases receivable:
Individually evaluated for impairment
$ 2,321 $ 8,448 $ 69 $ 897 $ - $ - $ - $ 11,735
Collectively evaluated for impairment
194,007 265,455 59,716 237,538 85,881 49,009 - 891,606
Total loans and leases, gross at December 31, 2020
$ 196,328 $ 273,903 $ 59,785 $ 238,435 $ 85,881 $ 49,009 $ - $ 903,341
Credit Quality Indicators - Commercial Loans
Management continuously monitors and evaluates the credit quality of FNCB’s commercial loans by regularly reviewing certain credit quality indicators. Management utilizes credit risk ratings as the key credit quality indicator for evaluating the credit quality of FNCB’s loan receivables.
FNCB’s commercial loan classification and credit grading processes are part of the lending, underwriting, and credit administration functions to ensure an ongoing assessment of credit quality. FNCB maintains a formal, written loan classification and credit grading system that includes a discussion of the factors used to assign appropriate classifications of credit grades to loans. The risk grade groupings provide a mechanism to identify risk within the loan portfolio and provide management and the board of directors with periodic reports by risk category. The process also identifies groups of loans that warrant the special attention of management. Accurate and timely loan classification and credit grading is a critical component of loan portfolio management. Loan officers are required to review their loan portfolio risk ratings regularly for accuracy. In addition, the credit risk ratings play an important role in the loan review function, as well as the establishment and evaluation of the provision for loan and lease losses and the ALLL.
The loan review function uses the same risk rating system in the loan review process. Quarterly, FNCB engages an independent third party to assess the quality of the loan portfolio and evaluate the accuracy of ratings with the loan officer’s and management’s assessment.
FNCB’s loan rating system assigns a degree of risk to commercial loans based on relevant information about the ability of borrowers to service their debt such as: current financial information, historical payment experience, credit documentation, public information and current economic trends, among other factors. Management analyzes these non-homogeneous loans individually by grading the loans as to credit risk and probability of collection for each type of loan. Commercial and industrial loans include commercial indirect auto loans which are not individually risk rated, and construction, land acquisition and development loans include residential construction loans which are also not individually risk rated. These loans are monitored on a pool basis due to their homogeneous nature as described in “Credit Quality Indicators - Other Loans” below. FNCB risk rates certain residential real estate loans and consumer loans that are part of a larger commercial relationship using a credit grading system as described in “Credit Quality Indicators - Commercial Loans.” The grading system contains the following basic risk categories:
1. Minimal Risk
2. Above Average Credit Quality
3. Average Risk
4. Acceptable Risk
5. Pass - Watch
6. Special Mention
7. Substandard - Accruing
8. Substandard - Non-Accrual
9. Doubtful
10. Loss
This analysis is performed on a quarterly basis using the following definitions for risk ratings:
Pass - Assets rated 1 through 5 are considered pass ratings. These assets show no current or potential problems and are considered fully collectible. All such loans are evaluated collectively for ALLL calculation purposes. However, accruing loans restructured under a TDR that have been performing for an extended period, do not represent a higher risk of loss, and have been upgraded to a pass rating are evaluated individually for impairment.
Special Mention - Assets classified as special mention do not currently expose FNCB to a sufficient degree of risk to warrant an adverse classification but do possess credit deficiencies or potential weaknesses deserving close attention. Special mention assets have a potential weakness or pose an unwarranted financial risk which, if not corrected, could weaken the asset and increase risk in the future.
Substandard - Assets classified as substandard have well defined weaknesses based on objective evidence and are characterized by the distinct possibility that FNCB will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.
Doubtful - Assets classified as doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard with the added characteristic that such weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full highly questionable and improbable based on current circumstances.
Loss - Assets classified as loss are those considered uncollectible and of such little value that their continuance as assets is not warranted.
Credit Quality Indicators - Other Loans
Certain residential real estate loans, consumer loans, and commercial indirect auto loans are monitored on a pool basis due to their homogeneous nature. Loans that are delinquent 90 days or more are placed on non-accrual status unless collection of the loan is in process and reasonably assured. FNCB utilizes accruing versus non-accrual status as the credit quality indicator for these loan pools.
The following tables present the recorded investment in loans and leases receivable by major category and credit quality indicator at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Credit Quality Indicators
December 31, 2021
Commercial Loans
Other Loans
Special
Subtotal
Accruing
Non-accrual
Subtotal
Total
(in thousands)
Pass
Mention
Substandard
Doubtful
Loss
Commercial
Loans
Loans
Other
Loans
Residential real estate
$ 42,028 $ 530 $ 77 $ - $ - $ 42,635 $ 190,919 $ 559 $ 191,478 $ 234,113
Commercial real estate
350,904 8,232 6,873 - - 366,009 - - - 366,009
Construction, land acquisition and development
34,869 - - - - 34,869 6,777 - 6,777 41,646
Commercial and industrial
187,554 1,877 1,343 - - 190,774 2,312 - 2,312 193,086
Consumer
- - - - - - 85,291 231 85,522 85,522
State and political subdivisions
61,066 - - - - 61,066 5 - 5 61,071
Total
$ 676,421 $ 10,639 $ 8,293 $ - $ - $ 695,353 $ 285,304 $ 790 $ 286,094 $ 981,447
Credit Quality Indicators
December 31, 2020
Commercial Loans
Other Loans
Special
Subtotal
Accruing
Non-accrual
Subtotal
Total
(in thousands)
Pass
Mention
Substandard
Doubtful
Loss
Commercial
Loans
Loans
Other
Loans
Residential real estate
$ 35,839 $ 494 $ 209 $ - $ - $ 36,542 $ 158,896 $ 890 $ 159,786 $ 196,328
Commercial real estate
256,390 4,349 13,164 - - 273,903 - - - 273,903
Construction, land acquisition and development
55,697 - - - - 55,697 4,088 - 4,088 59,785
Commercial and industrial
233,370 961 1,104 - - 235,435 3,000 - 3,000 238,435
Consumer
- - - - - - 85,374 507 85,881 85,881
State and political subdivisions
48,998 - - - - 48,998 11 - 11 49,009
Total
$ 630,294 $ 5,804 $ 14,477 $ - $ - $ 650,575 $ 251,369 $ 1,397 $ 252,766 $ 903,341
Included in loans receivable are loans for which the accrual of interest income has been discontinued due to deterioration in the financial condition of the borrowers. The recorded investment in these non-accrual loans was $3.9 million at December 31, 2021 and $5.6 million at December 31, 2020. Generally, loans are placed on non-accrual status when they become 90 days or more delinquent. Once a loan is placed on non-accrual status it remains on non-accrual status until it has been brought current, has six months of performance under the loan terms, and factors indicating reasonable doubt about the timely collection of payments no longer exists. Therefore, loans may be current in accordance with their loan terms, or may be less than 90 days delinquent, and still be on a non-accrual status. There were no loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
The following tables present the delinquency status of past due and non-accrual loans at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
December 31, 2021
Delinquency Status
0-29 Days
30-59 Days
60-89 Days
>/= 90 Days
(in thousands)
Past Due
Past Due
Past Due
Past Due
Total
Performing (accruing) loans and leases:
Residential real estate
$ 233,054 $ 406 $ 17 $ - $ 233,477
Commercial real estate
363,394 116 - - 363,510
Construction, land acquisition and development
41,646 - - - 41,646
Commercial and industrial
192,584 4 1 - 192,589
Consumer
84,333 754 204 - 85,291
State and political subdivisions
61,071 - - - 61,071
Total performing (accruing) loans and leases
976,082 1,280 222 - 977,584
Non-accrual loans and leases:
Residential real estate
67 27 87 455 636
Commercial real estate
1,172 - - 1,327 2,499
Construction, land acquisition and development
- - - - -
Commercial and industrial
497 - - - 497
Consumer
117 85 15 14 231
State and political subdivisions
- - - - -
Total non-accrual loans and leases
1,853 112 102 1,796 3,863
Total loans and leases receivable
$ 977,935 $ 1,392 $ 324 $ 1,796 $ 981,447
December 31, 2020
Delinquency Status
0-29 Days
30-59 Days
60-89 Days
>/= 90 Days
(in thousands)
Past Due
Past Due
Past Due
Past Due
Total
Performing (accruing) loans and leases:
Residential real estate
$ 194,820 $ 251 $ 159 $ - $ 195,230
Commercial real estate
270,059 606 - - 270,665
Construction, land acquisition and development
59,785 - - - 59,785
Commercial and industrial
237,262 419 16 - 237,697
Consumer
83,486 1,485 403 - 85,374
State and political subdivisions
49,009 - - - 49,009
Total performing (accruing) loans and leases
894,421 2,761 578 - 897,760
Non-accrual loans and leases:
Residential real estate
642 39 - 417 1,098
Commercial real estate
1,484 - - 1,754 3,238
Construction, land acquisition and development
- - - - -
Commercial and industrial
614 - 124 - 738
Consumer
114 132 96 165 507
State and political subdivisions
- - - - -
Total non-accrual loans and leases
2,854 171 220 2,336 5,581
Total loans and leases receivable
$ 897,275 $ 2,932 $ 798 $ 2,336 $ 903,341
The following tables present a distribution of the recorded investment, unpaid principal balance and the related allowance for FNCB’s impaired loans, which have been analyzed for impairment under ASC 310, at December 31, 2021 and 2020. Non-accrual loans, other than TDRs, with balances less than the $100 thousand loan relationship threshold are not evaluated individually for impairment and accordingly, are not included in the following tables. However, these loans are evaluated collectively for impairment as homogeneous pools in the general allowance under ASC 450. Total non-accrual loans, other than TDRs, with balances less than the $100 thousand loan relationship threshold that were evaluated under ASC 450 amounted to $0.6 million and $1.4 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
December 31, 2021
Recorded
Unpaid Principal
Related
(in thousands)
Investment
Balance
Allowance
With no allowance recorded:
Residential real estate
$ 395 $ 463 $ -
Commercial real estate
2,499 4,230 -
Construction, land acquisition and development
- - -
Commercial and industrial
314 347 -
Consumer
- - -
State and political subdivisions
- - -
Total impaired loans with no related allowance recorded
3,208 5,040 -
With a related allowance recorded:
Residential real estate
1,286 1,285 9
Commercial real estate
5,031 5,031 6
Construction, land acquisition and development
- - -
Commercial and industrial
448 666 11
Consumer
- - -
State and political subdivisions
- - -
Total impaired loans with a related allowance recorded
6,765 6,982 26
Total of impaired loans:
Residential real estate
1,681 1,748 9
Commercial real estate
7,530 9,261 6
Construction, land acquisition and development
- - -
Commercial and industrial
762 1,013 11
Consumer
- - -
State and political subdivisions
- - -
Total impaired loans
$ 9,973 $ 12,022 $ 26
December 31, 2020
Recorded
Unpaid Principal
Related
(in thousands)
Investment
Balance
Allowance
With no allowance recorded:
Residential real estate
$ 859 $ 957 $ -
Commercial real estate
2,729 5,311 -
Construction, land acquisition and development
69 69 -
Commercial and industrial
5 5 -
Consumer
- - -
State and political subdivisions
- - -
Total impaired loans with no related allowance recorded
3,662 6,342 -
With a related allowance recorded:
Residential real estate
1,462 1,462 13
Commercial real estate
5,719 5,719 46
Construction, land acquisition and development
- - -
Commercial and industrial
892 1,130 357
Consumer
- - -
State and political subdivisions
- - -
Total impaired loans with a related allowance recorded
8,073 8,311 416
Total of impaired loans:
Residential real estate
2,321 2,419 13
Commercial real estate
8,448 11,030 46
Construction, land acquisition and development
69 69 -
Commercial and industrial
897 1,135 357
Consumer
- - -
State and political subdivisions
- - -
Total impaired loans
$ 11,735 $ 14,653 $ 416
The following table presents the average balance and interest income by loan category recognized on impaired loans for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
Year Ended December 31,
Average
Interest
Average
Interest
(in thousands)
Balance
Income (1)
Balance
Income (1)
Residential real estate
$ 1,966 $ 71 $ 2,542 $ 78
Commercial real estate
8,052 223 10,111 254
Construction, land acquisition and development
33 2 72 5
Commercial and industrial
969 9 1,041 14
Consumer
- - - -
State and political subdivisions
- - - -
Total impaired loans
$ 11,020 $ 305 $ 13,766 $ 351
(1) Interest income represents income recognized on performing TDRs.
The additional interest income that would have been earned on non-accrual and restructured loans had these loans performed in accordance with their original terms approximated to $215 thousand and $353 thousand, respectively, for years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Troubled Debt Restructured Loans
TDRs at December 31, 2021 and 2020 were $6.9 million and $7.7 million, respectively. Accruing and non-accruing TDRs were $6.7 million and $0.2 million, respectively at December 31, 2021 and $7.0 million and $0.7 million, respectively at December 31, 2020. Approximately $26 thousand and $197 thousand in specific reserves have been established for TDRs as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. FNCB was not committed to lend additional funds to any loan classified as a TDR at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
The modification of the terms of loans classified as TDRs may include one or a combination of the following, among others: a reduction of the stated interest rate of the loan, an extension of the maturity date, capitalization of real estate taxes, a payment modification under a forbearance agreement, or a permanent reduction of the recorded investment in the loan. There was one loan that was modified as a TDR during the year ended December 31, 2021. The modification involved a commercial and industrial loan that was granted a principal forbearance. The pre- and post-modification recorded investment for this loan was $235 thousand.
There were four loans that were modified as TDRs during the year ended December 31, 2020. There was one residential real estate loan for which the original terms were extended, and three commercial and industrial loans that were each granted a principal forbearance. The residential real estate loan had a pre- and post-modification recorded investment of $93 thousand. The three commercial and industrial loans had an aggregate pre- and post-modification recorded investment of $196 thousand.
There were no TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Residential Real Estate Loan Foreclosures
In 2021, FNCB obtained a deed in lieu of foreclosure for a residential mortgage with a recorded investment of $138 thousand. FNCB accepted an offer of $205 thousand at which time the property went under agreement of sale and the sale closed prior to December 31, 2021. At the time of acceptance, FNCB transferred the property to OREO at the selling price less cost to sell of $178 thousand and recorded a positive valuation adjustment of $40 thousand, which is included in non-interest income for the year ended December 31, 2021.
There were two residential real estate loans with an aggregate recorded investment of $98 thousand that were in the process of foreclosure at December 31, 2021. There was one residential real estate loan with a recorded investment of $154 thousand that was in the process of foreclosure at December 31, 2020. FNCB did not have any residential real estate properties in OREO at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Note 5. BANK PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT
The following table summarizes bank premises and equipment at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
December 31,
(in thousands)
Land
$ 2,776 $ 3,537
Buildings and improvements
14,249 13,708
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
10,610 12,114
Leasehold improvements
2,980 3,654
Total
30,615 33,013
Accumulated depreciation
(14,533 ) (15,434 )
Net
$ 16,082 $ 17,579
Depreciation and amortization expense of premises and equipment amounted to $1.6 million for both of the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
On December 16, 2021, FNCB received approval from its primary regulator to consolidate the Bank’s Wheeler Avenue Community Office into its Main Office effective February 18, 2022. Both offices are located in Dunmore, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. FNCB is obligated under a land lease through December 2024 for the Wheeler Avenue property and FNCB received an independent third- party appraisal of the building and improvements, which it owns. Upon regulatory approval, FNCB transferred the building and improvements to OREO at fair value less cost to sell and recorded loss on the transfer of $242 thousand which is included in other operating expenses of the consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Note 6. DEPOSITS
The following table summarizes deposits by major category at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
December 31,
(in thousands)
Demand (non-interest bearing)
$ 320,089 $ 271,499
Interest-bearing:
Interest-bearing demand
857,849 713,398
Savings
134,224 109,664
Time ($250,000 and over)
26,531 36,216
Other time
116,335 156,671
Total interest-bearing
1,134,939 1,015,949
Total deposits
$ 1,455,028 $ 1,287,448
The aggregate amount of deposits reclassified as loans was $83 thousand at December 31, 2021 and $86 thousand at December 31, 2020. Management evaluates transaction accounts that are overdrawn for collectability as part of its evaluation for credit losses. During 2021 and 2020, no deposits were received on terms other than those available in the normal course of business.
The following table summarizes scheduled maturities of time deposits, including certificates of deposit and individual retirement accounts, at December 31, 2021:
$250,000
Other
(in thousands)
and Over
Time Deposits
Total
$ 24,525 $ 94,189 $ 118,714
899 8,360 9,259
1,107 8,685 9,792
- 2,947 2,947
- 2,154 2,154
Total
$ 26,531 $ 116,335 $ 142,866
Investment securities with a carrying value of $410.5 million and $279.7 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, were pledged to collateralize certain municipal deposits. In addition, FNCB had outstanding letters of credit with the FHLB to secure municipal deposits of $7.5 million and $75.0 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Note 7. BORROWED FUNDS
Short-term borrowings available to FNCB include overnight advances through the FHLB of Pittsburgh advances, federal funds lines of credit and the Federal Reserve Discount Window, which generally represent overnight or less than 30-day borrowings. FNCB's maximum borrowing capacity under federal funds lines of credit, which are unsecured, was $72.0 million at December 31, 2021.
FNCB has an agreement with the FHLB of Pittsburgh which allows for borrowings, either overnight or term, up to a maximum borrowing capacity based on a percentage of qualifying loans pledged under a blanket pledge agreement. In addition to pledging loans, FNCB is required to purchase FHLB of Pittsburgh stock based upon the amount of credit extended. Loans that were pledged to collateralize borrowings under this agreement were $478.3 million at December 31, 2021 and $500.1 million at December 31, 2020. FNCB’s maximum borrowing capacity was $391.7 million at December 31, 2021. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were $7.5 million and $75.0 million, respectively, in letters of credit to secure municipal deposits outstanding under this agreement. There was $20.0 million in term advances through the FHLB of Pittsburgh outstanding at December 31, 2021 that were hedged under interest-rate swaps. There were no overnight borrowings or term advances through the FHLB of Pittsburgh outstanding at December 31, 2020.
Advances through the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window generally include short-term advances which are fully collateralized by certain pledged loans of $18 million under the Federal Reserve Bank’s Borrower-in-Custody (“BIC”) program. There were no advances under the BIC program outstanding at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. FNCB had available borrowing capacity of $10.6 million under this program at December 31, 2021.
The Federal Reserve Bank established the Paycheck Protection Program Liquidity Facility (“PPPLF”) on April 9, 2020; through the Discount Window to provide participating lenders with liquidity to lend money under the PPP. PPPLF advances were collateralized by pools of PPP loans, with an interest rate of 0.35% and a maturity date equal to the term of the pool of PPP loans securing it. Repayment of PPP loans serving as collateral were passed on to the Federal Reserve Bank Discount Window to pay down the corresponding PPPLF advance. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were no outstanding advances under the PPPLF.
As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2021
Weighted
Weighted
Maximum
Average
Average
Ending
Average
Month-End
Rate for
Rate at
(dollars in thousands)
Balance
Balance
Balance
the Year
Period End
FHLB of Pittsburgh advances - term
$ 20,000 $ 1,890 $ 20,000 0.33 %
0.07 %
Federal funds
- 28 - - -
Junior subordinated debentures
10,310 10,310 10,310 1.85 1.87
As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2020
Weighted
Weighted
Maximum
Average
Average
Ending
Average
Month-End
Rate for
Rate at
(dollars in thousands)
Balance
Balance
Balance
the Year
Period End
FHLB of Pittsburgh advances - overnight
$ - $ 5,501 $ 35,125 1.24 %
- %
FHLB of Pittsburgh advances - term
- 26,354 52,809 1.54 -
Federal funds
- 26 - 0.76 -
Federal reserve discount window BIC advances
- 437 10,000 0.25 -
Federal reserve discount window PPPLF advances
- 8,659 36,272 0.35 -
Junior subordinated debentures
10,310 10,310 10,310 2.43 1.89
On December 14, 2006, the Issuing Trust issued $10.0 million of trust preferred securities (the “Trust Securities”) at a variable interest rate of 7.02%, with a scheduled maturity of December 15, 2036. FNCB owns 100.0% of the ownership interest in the Issuing Trust. The proceeds from the issue were invested in $10.3 million, 7.02% Junior Subordinated Debentures (the “Debentures”) issued by FNCB. The interest rate on the Trust Securities and the Debentures resets quarterly at a spread of 1.67% above the current 3-month LIBOR rate. The average interest rate paid on the Debentures was 1.85% in 2021 and 2.43% in 2020. The Debentures are unsecured and rank subordinate and junior in right to all indebtedness, liabilities and obligations of FNCB. The Debentures represent the sole assets of the Trust. Interest on the Trust Securities is deferrable until a period of twenty consecutive quarters has elapsed. FNCB has the option to prepay the Trust Securities beginning December 15, 2011. FNCB has, under the terms of the Debentures and the related Indenture, as well as the other operative corporate documents, agreed to irrevocably and unconditionally guarantee the Trust’s obligations under the Debentures. FNCB has reflected this investment on a deconsolidated basis. As a result, the Debentures totaling $10.3 million, have been reflected in borrowed funds in the consolidated statements of financial condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020 under the caption “Junior Subordinated Debentures”. FNCB records interest expense on the Debentures in its consolidated statements of income. FNCB also records its common stock investment issued by First National Community Statutory Trust I in other assets in its consolidated statements of financial condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020. At both December 31, 2021 and 2020, accrued and unpaid interest associated with the Debentures amounted to $9 thousand.
The following table presents the contractual maturities of borrowed funds at December 31, 2021:
(in thousands)
December 31, 2021
$ 20,000
-
-
-
-
2027 and thereafter
10,310
Total
$ 30,310
Note 8. DERIVATIVE AND HEDGING TRANSACTIONS
Risk Management Objective of Using Derivatives
FNCB is exposed to certain risks arising from both its business operations and economic conditions. It principally manages its exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of its core business activities. FNCB manages economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity, and credit risk primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of its assets and liabilities and the use of derivative financial instruments. Specifically, FNCB enters into derivative financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the receipt or payment of future unknown and uncertain cash amounts, the value of which are determined by interest rates. Derivative financial instruments are used to manage differences in the amount, timing, and duration of known or expected cash payments primarily related to FNCB's borrowings.
Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk
FNCB's objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish this objective, FNCB primarily uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for FNCB making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying notional amount. During 2021, such derivatives were used to hedge the variable cash flows associated with forecasted issuances of debt.
For derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk, the gain or loss on the derivative is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and subsequently reclassified into interest expense in the same period during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive income related to derivatives will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on FNCB's variable-rate debt. During the next twelve months, it is estimated that an additional $69 thousand will be reclassified as an increase to interest expense.
Non-designated Hedges
Derivatives not designated as hedges are not speculative and result from a service FNCB provides to certain customers. FNCB executes interest rate swaps with commercial banking customers to facilitate their respective risk management strategies. Those interest rate swaps are simultaneously hedged by offsetting interest rate swaps that FNCB executes with a third party, such that FNCB minimizes its net risk exposure resulting from such transactions. As the interest rate swaps associated with this program do not meet the strict hedge accounting requirements, changes in the fair value of both the customer swaps and the offsetting swaps are recognized directly in earnings.
Fair Values of Derivative Instruments on the Balance Sheet
The table below presents the fair value of FNCB's derivative financial instruments and the classification on the consolidated statements of financial condition at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.
Derivative Assets
Derivative Liabilities
As of December 31, 2021
As of December 31, 2020
As of December 31, 2021
As of December 31, 2020
(in thousands)
Notional Amount
Balance Sheet Location
Fair Value
Balance Sheet Location
Fair Value
Notional Amount
Balance Sheet Location
Fair Value
Balance Sheet Location
Fair Value
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Interest rate products
$ 20,000 Other assets
$ 271 Other assets
$ - $ 10,000 Other liabilities
$ 7 Other liabilities
$ 120
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments
271 - 7 120
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Interest Rate Products
5,807 Other assets
92 Other assets
23 5,807 Other liabilities
92 Other liabilities
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
92 23 92 23
Cash and other collateral (1)
- - - -
Net derivative amounts
$ 363 $ 23 $ 99 $ 143
(1) Other collateral represents the amount that cannot be used to offset our derivative assets and liabilities from a gross basis to a net basis in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance. The other collateral consist of securities and is exchanged under bilateral collateral and master netting agreements that allow us to offset the net derivative position with the related collateral. The application of the other collateral cannot reduce the net derivative position below zero. Therefore, excess other collateral, if any, is not reflected above.
Effect of Fair Value and Cash Flow Hedge Accounting on Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The table below presents the effect of fair value and cash flow hedge accounting on accumulated other comprehensive income as of December 31, 2021. Amounts disclosed are gross and not net of taxes.
Year Ended December 31, 2021
(in thousands)
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivative
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI Included Component
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI Excluded Component
Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Income
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income Included Component
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income Excluded Component
Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships
Interest rate products
$ 168 $ 168 $ - Interest expense
$ (22 ) $ (22 ) $ -
Total
$ 168 $ 168 $ - $ (22 ) $ (22 ) $ -
Year Ended December 31, 2020
(in thousands)
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivative
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI Included Component
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI Excluded Component
Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Income
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income Included Component
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income Excluded Component
Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships
Interest rate products
$ (102 ) $ (102 ) $ - Interest expense
$ 11 $ 11 $ -
Total
$ (102 ) $ (102 ) $ - $ 11 $ 11 $ -
Effect of Fair Value and Cash Flow Hedge Accounting on the Statement of Income
The table below presents the effect of the FNCB's derivative financial instruments on the consolidated statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Location and Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Fair Value and Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
Year Ended
December 31, 2021
December 31, 2020
(in thousands)
Interest Expense
Interest Expense
Total amounts of income and expense line items presented in the cash flow statement of financial performance in which the effects of fair value or hedges are recorded
$ (22 ) $ 11
The effects of fair value and cash flow hedging:
Gain or (loss) on cash flow hedging relationships in Subtopic 815-20
Interest contracts:
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income
$ (22 ) $ 11
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income as a result that a forecasted transaction is no longer probable of occurring
$ - $ -
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated OCI into income - included component
$ (22 ) $ 11
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated OCI into income - excluded component
$ - $ -
Effect of Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments on the Statement of Income
Derivative financial instruments that are not designated as hedging instruments had no effect on the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Credit-risk-related Contingent Features
FNCB has agreements with each of its derivative counterparties that contain a provision where if FNCB defaults or is capable of being declared in default on any of its indebtedness, then it could also be declared in its derivative obligations.
FNCB has agreements with certain of its derivatives counterparties that contain a provision where if it fails to maintain its status as a well-capitalized institution, then it could be required to post additional collateral.
As of December 31, 2021, the termination value of derivatives in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk, related to these agreements was $96 thousand. As of December 31, 2020, the termination value of derivatives in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk, related to these agreements was $135 thousand. FNCB has minimum collateral posting thresholds with certain of its derivative counterparties and has received posted collateral of $300 thousand against its obligations under these agreements as of December 31, 2021. As of December 31, 2020, FNCB had not posted or received any collateral related to these agreements with counterparties. If FNCB had breached any of these provisions it could have been required to settle its obligations under the agreements at the termination value.
Note 9. BENEFIT PLANS
The Bank has a defined contribution profit sharing plan (“Profit Sharing Plan”) which includes the provision under section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (“401(k)”) and covers all eligible employees. The Bank’s contribution to the Profit Sharing Plan is determined at management’s discretion at the end of each year and funded. The 401(k) feature of the Profit Sharing Plan permits employees to make voluntary salary deferrals, either pre-tax or Roth, up to the dollar limit prescribed by law. FNCB may make discretionary matching contributions equal to a uniform percentage of employee salary deferrals. Discretionary matching contributions are determined each year by management and approved by the Board of Directors. There were no discretionary annual contributions made to the Profit Sharing Plan in 2021 and 2020. Discretionary matching contributions under the 401(k) feature of the plan totaled $385 thousand in 2021 and $332 thousand in 2020.
The Bank has an unfunded non-qualified deferred compensation plan covering all eligible Bank officers and directors as defined by the plan. This plan permits eligible participants to elect to defer a portion of their compensation. Elective deferred compensation and accrued earnings, included in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition, aggregated to $1.9 million and $2.0 million at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.
The Bank has a Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (“SERP”) for a select group of management or highly compensated employees within the meaning of Sections 201(2), 301(a)(3) and 401(a)(1) of The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. The general provisions of the SERP provide for annual year-end contributions, performance contingent contributions and discretionary contributions. The SERP contributions are unfunded for Federal tax purposes and constitute an unsecured promise by the Bank to pay benefits in the future and are included in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition. Participants in the SERP have the status of general unsecured creditors of the Bank. SERP contributions totaled $387 thousand in 2021 and $240 thousand in 2020. The total liability associated with the SERP was $1.1 million at December 31, 2021 and $856 thousand at December 31, 2020.
Note 10. INCOME TAXES
The following table summarizes the current and deferred amounts of the provision for income tax expense (benefit) for each of the two years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Current
$ 4,250 $ 6
Deferred
406 3,219
Income tax expense
$ 4,656 $ 3,225
The following table presents a reconciliation between the effective income tax expense and the income tax expense that would have been provided at the federal statutory tax rate of 21.0% for the years ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:
For the Year Ended December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Amount
%
Amount
%
Provision at statutory tax rates
$ 5,466 21.00 % $ 3,900 21.00 %
Add (deduct):
Tax effects of tax free interest income
(733 ) (2.82 )% (632 ) (3.40 )%
Non-deductible interest expense
32 0.12 % 46 0.25 %
Bank-owned life insurance
(114 ) (0.44 )% (101 ) (0.55 )%
Other items, net
5 0.03 % 12 0.06 %
Income tax provision
$ 4,656 17.89 % $ 3,225 17.36 %
The following table summarizes the components of net deferred tax assets at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
December 31,
(in thousands)
Allowance for loan and lease losses
$ 2,730 $ 2,638
Deferred compensation
697 641
Lease liability
659 752
Other real estate owned valuation
9 23
Deferred intangible assets
- 45
Employee benefits
340 210
Accrued interest
2 2
Charitable contribution carryover
19 -
Accrued vacation
54 56
Deferred income
47 51
Depreciation
- 13
Derivative liabilities
- 24
Net operating loss carryover
- 418
Gross deferred tax assets
4,557 4,873
Deferred loan origination costs
(114 ) (173 )
Unrealized holding gains on securities available-for-sale
(1,631 ) (3,715 )
Unrealized holding gains on equity securities
(147 ) (118 )
Right of use asset
(597 ) (686 )
Prepaid expenses
(27 ) -
Derivative assets
(58 ) -
Mortgage servicing rights
(56 ) -
Depreciation
(122 ) -
Gross deferred tax liabilities
(2,752 ) (4,692 )
Net deferred tax assets
$ 1,805 $ 181
Management evaluates the carrying amount of its deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis, or more frequently if necessary, in accordance with guidance set forth in ASC Topic 740 “Income Taxes,” and applies the criteria in the guidance to determine whether it is more likely than not that some portion, or all, of the deferred tax asset will not be realized within its life cycle, based on the weight of available evidence. Management performed an evaluation of FNCB's deferred tax assets at December 31, 2021 taking into consideration all available positive and negative evidence at that time. Based on this evaluation, management believes that FNCB's future taxable income will be sufficient to utilize its deferred tax assets. There was no valuation allowance for deferred tax assets at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.
Note 11. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In conducting its business, FNCB has engaged in, and intends to continue to engage in, banking and financial transactions with directors, executive officers and their related parties.
FNCB has granted loans, letters of credit and lines of credit to directors, executive officers and their related parties. The following table summarizes the changes in the total amounts of such outstanding loans, advances under lines of credit, net of any participations sold, as well as repayments during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Balance January 1,
$ 98,935 $ 77,896
Additions, new loans and advances
123,717
79,325
Repayments
(127,558
) (58,286 )
Other (1)
(23,657 ) -
Balance December 31,
$ 71,437 $ 98,935
(1) Other represents loans to related parties that ceased being related parties
At December 31, 2021 and 2020 there were no loans made to directors, executive officers and their related parties that were not performing in accordance with the terms of the loan agreements.
Deposits from directors, executive officers and their related parties held by the Bank at December 31, 2021 and 2020 amounted to $152.6 million and $146.2 million, respectively. Interest paid on the deposits amounted to $290 thousand in 2021 and $542 thousand in 2020.
In the course of its operations, FNCB acquires goods and services from, and transacts business with, various companies of related parties, which include, but are not limited to, employee health insurance, fidelity bond and errors and omissions insurance, legal services, and dealer reserve payments. FNCB recorded payments to related parties for goods and services of $2.0 million for both years ending December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Note 12. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND CONCENTRATIONS
Leases
FNCB is obligated under operating leases for certain bank branches, office space, automobiles and equipment. Operating lease right of use ("ROU") assets represent FNCB's right to use an underlying asset during the lease term and operating liabilities represent its obligation to make lease payments under the lease agreement. ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized at lease commencement based on the present value of the remaining lease payments using a discount rate that represents FNCB's incremental borrowings rate at the commencement date. ROU assets are included in other assets and operating lease liabilities are included in other liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition. ROU assets and lease liabilities were $3.0 million and $3.2 million, respectively, at December 31, 2021 and $3.3 million and $3.6 million, respectively, at December 31, 2020.
Operating lease expense associated with bank branches and office space is included in occupancy expense, while operating lease expense associated with automobiles and office equipment are included in equipment expense in the consolidated statements of income. Total rental expense under leases amounted to $389 thousand and $408 thousand, respectively, at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
The following table summarizes the maturity of remaining operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2021:
(in thousands)
December 31, 2021
$ 398
2027 and thereafter
2,271
Total lease payments
4,017
Less: imputed interest
Present value of operating lease liabilities
$ 3,248
The following table presents other information related to FNCB's operating leases:
(dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2021
December 31, 2020
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)
12.2 13.3
Weighted-average discount rate
3.29 % 3.25 %
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases
$ 401 $ 395
Financial Instruments with off-balance sheet commitments
FNCB is a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit that involve varying degrees of credit, interest rate or liquidity risk in excess of the amount recognized in the balance sheet. FNCB’s exposure to credit loss from nonperformance by the other party to the financial instruments for commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments.
Financial instruments whose contract amounts represent credit risk at December 31, 2021 and 2020 are as follows:
December 31,
(in thousands)
Commitments to extend credit
$ 273,883 $ 227,908
Standby letters of credit
17,179 18,914
In order to provide for probable losses inherent in these instruments, FNCB recorded reserves for unfunded commitments of $583 thousand and $613 thousand at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, which were included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.
Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to customers in accordance with contractual provisions. These commitments usually are for specific periods or contain termination clauses and may require the payment of a fee. The total amounts of unused commitments do not necessarily represent future cash requirements, in that commitments often expire without being drawn upon.
Letters of credit and financial guarantees are agreements whereby FNCB guarantees the performance of a customer to a third party. Collateral may be required to support letters of credit in accordance with management’s evaluation of the creditworthiness of each customer. The credit exposure assumed in issuing letters of credit is essentially equal to that in other lending activities.
Federal Home Loan Bank - Mortgage Partnership Finance (“MPF”) Program
Under a secondary market loan servicing program with the FHLB, FNCB, in exchange for a monthly fee, provides a credit enhancement guarantee to the FHLB for foreclosure losses in excess of a defined First Loss Account (“FLA”) balance, up to specified amounts. At December 31, 2021, FNCB serviced payments on $15.4 million of first lien residential loan principal under these terms for the FHLB. At December 31, 2021, the maximum credit enhancement obligation for such guarantees by FNCB would be approximately $987 thousand if total foreclosure losses on the entire pool of loans exceed the FLA of approximately $60 thousand. There was no reserve established for this guarantee at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Cash Concentrations: The Bank maintains cash balances at several correspondent banks. FNCB engages in a primary correspondent banking relationship with PNC Bank (formerly BBVA Compass). At December 31, 2021 and 2020, FNCB had balances with PNC Bank of $1.6 million and $4.4 million, respectively. There were no other due from bank accounts in excess of the $250 thousand limit covered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) at December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Loan Concentrations: FNCB attempts to limit its exposure to concentrations of credit risk by diversifying its loan portfolio and closely monitoring any concentrations of credit risk. The commercial real estate and construction, land acquisition and development portfolios comprise $407.7 million, or 41.5% of gross loans at December 31, 2021. Geographic concentrations exist because FNCB provides its services in its primary market area of Northeastern Pennsylvania and conducts limited activities outside of that area. FNCB had loans and loan commitments secured by collateral of its primary market area of $77.7 million, or 6.2%, of gross loans at December 31, 2021.
FNCB considers an industry concentration within the loan portfolio to exist if the aggregate loan balance outstanding for that industry exceeds 25.0% of capital. The following table summarizes the concentration within FNCB’s loan portfolio by industry at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
December 31, 2021
December 31, 2020
% of
% of
(in thousands)
Amount
Gross Loans
Amount
Gross Loans
Retail space/shopping centers
$ 48,590 4.95 %
$ 43,926 4.86 %
1-4 family residential investment properties
92,745 9.45 %
58,114 6.43 %
Litigation
FNCB has been subject to tax audits, and is also a party to routine litigation involving various aspects of its business, such as employment practice claims, workers compensation claims, claims to enforce liens, condemnation proceedings on properties in which FNCB holds security interests, claims involving the making and servicing of real property loans and other issues incident to its business, none of which has or is expected to have a material adverse impact on the consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity of FNCB.
Note 13. STOCK COMPENSATION PLANS
FNCB has a Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (“LTIP”) for directors, executive officers and key employees. The LTIP authorizes up to 1,200,000 shares of common stock for issuance and provides the Board of Directors with the authority to offer several different types of long-term incentives, including stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance units and performance shares. The Board of Directors granted awards, comprised solely of shares of restricted stock, to executives and certain key employees under the terms of the LTIP of 66,065 shares in 2021 and 75,924 shares in 2020.
The following table summarizes the activity related to FNCB’s unvested restricted stock awards during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
For the Years Ended December 31,
Weighted-
Weighted-
Average
Average
Restricted
Grant Date
Restricted
Grant Date
Shares
Fair Value
Shares
Fair Value
Unvested restricted stock awards at January 1,
159,913 $ 7.07 128,150 $ 7.76
Awards granted
66,065 7.98 75,924 6.07
Forfeitures
(7,443 ) 7.38 (5,741 ) 6.64
Vestings
(44,238 ) 7.20 (38,420 ) 7.48
Unvested restricted stock awards at December 31,
174,297 $ 7.37 159,913 $ 7.07
For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, stock-based compensation expense, which is included in salaries and benefits expense in the consolidated statements of income, totaled $376 thousand in 2021 and $336 thousand in 2020. Total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock awards at December 31, 2021 and 2020 was $992 thousand and $896 thousand, respectively. Unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested shares of restricted stock is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.4 years.
On July 1, 2021 and 2020, 2,062 shares and 2,555 shares, respectively, of FNCB's common stock were granted under the LTIP to each of the Bank's non-employee directors. The total number of shares granted to the directors were 18,558 in 2021 and 25,550 in 2020. The shares of common stock immediately vested to each director upon grant, and the fair value per share on the grant date was $7.28 for the 2021 grant and $5.87 for the 2020 grant. Directors fees of $135 thousand in 2021 and $150 thousand in 2020 associated with these grants was recognized on each of the respective grant dates and included in other operating expense in the consolidated statements of income. At December 31, 2021, there were 679,207 shares of common stock available for award under the LTIP.
Note 14. REGULATORY MATTERS/SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
FNCB’s ability to pay dividends to its shareholders, or repurchase shares of its common stock, is largely dependent on the Bank’s ability to pay dividends to FNCB. Bank regulations limit the amount of dividends that may be paid, or shares that may be repurchased, without prior approval of the Bank’s regulatory agency. Cash dividends declared and paid by FNCB during 2021 and 2020 were $0.27 per share and $0.22 per share, respectively. FNCB offers a Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase plan ("DRP") to its shareholders. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 dividend reinvestment shares were purchased in open market transactions. However, shares under the optional cash purchase feature of the DRP were issued from authorized but unissued common shares. Shares of common stock issued under the DRP totaled 12,189 and 10,271 for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Subsequent to December 31, 2021, on January 26, 2022, FNCB declared a $0.075 per share dividend payable on March 15, 2022 to shareholders of record as of March 1, 2022.
On January 27, 2021, FNCB's Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program under which up to 975,000 shares of FNCB's outstanding common stock may be acquired in the open market pursuant to a trading plan that was adopted in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The repurchase program commenced on February 3, 2021 and expired on December 31, 2021. On January 26, 2022, FNCB's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 750,000 shares of FNCB's outstanding common stock under a similar progrm, which is anticipated to commence on March 4, 2022. Repurchases under both programs are administered through an independent broker and are subjected to SEC regulations as well as certain price, market volume and timing constraints specified in the trading plan. In 2021, FNCB repurchased 330,759 shares at a weighted-average price per share of $7.21, or $2.4 million in aggregate. Repurchases are funded from available working capital and the repurchased shares were returned to the status of authorized but unissued shares of common stock.
The holding company is considered a small bank holding company and is exempt from risk-based capital and leverage rules, including Basel III. FNCB and the Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material adverse effect on FNCB’s financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, FNCB and the Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of FNCB's and the Bank's assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. FNCB's and the Bank's capital amounts, and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors. Management believes, as of December 31, 2021, that FNCB and the Bank meet all applicable capital adequacy requirements.
Current quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require FNCB Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below) of Total capital, Tier I capital, and Tier I common equity (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined), and of Tier I capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined). The following tables present summary information regarding the Bank’s risk-based capital and related ratios at December 31, 2021 and 2020:
FNCB Bank
Minimum Required For Capital Adequacy Purposes
Minimum Required For Capital Adequacy Purposes with Conservation Buffer
Minimum Required To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Regulations
(dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Ratio
Ratio
Ratio
December 31, 2021
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)
$ 161,957 14.64 %
8.00 %
10.50 %
10.00 %
Tier I capital (to risk-weighted assets)
148,958 13.46 %
6.00 %
8.50 %
8.00 %
Tier I common equity (to risk-weighted assets)
148,958 13.46 %
4.50 %
7.00 %
6.50 %
Tier I capital (to average assets)
148,958 8.92 %
4.00 %
4.00 %
5.00 %
Total risk-weighted assets
1,106,636
Total average assets
1,669,932
FNCB Bank
Minimum Required For Capital Adequacy Purposes
Minimum Required For Capital Adequacy Purposes with Conservation Buffer
Minimum Required To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Regulations
(dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Ratio
Ratio
Ratio
December 31, 2020
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)
$ 149,173 15.79 %
8.00 %
10.50 %
10.00 %
Tier I capital (to risk-weighted assets)
137,356 14.54 %
6.00 %
8.50 %
8.00 %
Tier I common equity (to risk-weighted assets)
137,356 14.54 %
4.50 %
7.00 %
6.50 %
Tier I capital (to average assets)
137,356 9.57 %
4.00 %
4.00 %
5.00 %
Total risk-weighted assets
944,546
Total average assets
1,434,776
Note 15. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
In determining fair value, FNCB uses various valuation approaches, including market, income and cost approaches. Accounting standards establish a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, which are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of FNCB. Unobservable inputs reflect FNCB’s knowledge about the assumptions the market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability, which are developed based on the best information available in the circumstances.
The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). A financial asset or liability’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fair value hierarchy is broken down into three levels based on the reliability of inputs as follows:
●
Level 1 valuation is based upon unadjusted quoted market prices for identical instruments traded in active markets;
●
Level 2 valuation is based upon quoted market prices for similar instruments traded in active markets, quoted market prices for identical or similar instruments traded in markets that are not active and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market or can be corroborated by market data; and
●
Level 3 valuation is derived from other valuation methodologies including discounted cash flow models and similar techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in determining fair value.
A description of the valuation methodologies used for assets recorded at fair value, and for estimating fair value of financial instruments not recorded at fair value, is set forth below.
Available-for-Sale Debt Securities
The estimated fair values for FNCB’s investments in obligations of the U.S. government, obligations of state and political subdivisions, government-sponsored agency CMOs and mortgage-backed securities, private collateralized mortgage obligations, asset-backed securities, negotiable certificates of deposit and certain corporate debt securities are obtained by FNCB from a nationally-recognized pricing service. This pricing service develops estimated fair values by analyzing like securities and applying available market information through processes such as benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings and matrix pricing (Level 2 inputs), to prepare valuations. Matrix pricing is a mathematical technique widely used in the industry to value debt securities without relying exclusively on quoted prices for the specific securities, but rather by relying on the securities’ relationship to other benchmark quoted securities. The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include, among other things, dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond’s terms and conditions, and are based on market data obtained from sources independent from FNCB. The Level 2 investments in FNCB’s portfolio are priced using those inputs that, based on the analysis prepared by the pricing service, reflect the assumptions that market participants would use to price the assets. Management has determined that the Level 2 designation is appropriate for these securities because, as with most fixed-income securities, those in FNCB’s portfolio are not exchange-traded, and such non-exchange-traded fixed income securities are typically priced by correlation to observed market data. FNCB has reviewed the pricing service’s methodology to confirm its understanding that such methodology results in a valuation based on quoted market prices for similar instruments traded in active markets, quoted markets for identical or similar instruments traded in markets that are not active and model-based valuation techniques for which the significant assumptions can be corroborated by market data as appropriate to a Level 2 designation.
For those securities for which the inputs used by an independent pricing service were derived from unobservable market information, FNCB evaluated the appropriateness and quality of each price. Management reviewed the volume and level of activity for all classes of securities and attempted to identify transactions which may not be orderly or reflective of a significant level of activity and volume. For securities meeting these criteria, the quoted prices received from either market participants or an independent pricing service may be adjusted, as necessary, to estimate fair value (fair values based on Level 3 inputs). If applicable, the adjustment to fair value was derived based on present value cash flow model projections obtained from third party providers using assumptions similar to those incorporated by market participants.
At December 31, 2021, FNCB owned 27 corporate debt securities with an aggregate amortized cost and fair value of $31.3 million and $32.1 million, respectively. The market for eight of the 27 corporate debt securities at December 31, 2021 was not active and markets for similar securities are also not active. FNCB obtained valuations for these securities from a third-party service provider that prepared the valuations using a discounted cash flow approach. Management takes measures to validate the service provider’s analysis and is actively involved in the valuation process, including reviewing and verifying the assumptions used in the valuation calculations. Results of a discounted cash flow test are significantly affected by variables such as the estimate of the probability of default, estimates of future cash flows, discount rates, prepayment rates and the creditworthiness of the underlying issuers. FNCB considers these inputs to be unobservable Level 3 inputs because they are based on estimates about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing this type of asset and developed based on the best information available in the circumstances rather than on observable inputs. As it relates to fair value measurements, once each issuer is categorized and the forecasted default rates have been applied, the expected cash flows are modeled using the variables described above. Discount rates ranging from 2.86% to 3.90% were applied to the expected cash flows to estimate fair value. Management will continue to monitor the market for these securities to assess the market activity and the availability of observable inputs and will continue to apply these controls and procedures to the valuations received from its third-party service provider for the period it continues to use an outside valuation service.
Equity Securities
The estimated fair values of equity securities are determined by obtaining quoted prices on nationally recognized exchanges (Level 1 inputs).
Derivative Contracts
FNCB's derivative liabilities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs. Values of these instruments are obtained through an independent pricing source utilizing information which may include market observed quotations for swaps, LIBOR rates, forward rates and rate volatility. Derivative contracts create exposure to interest rate movements a swell as risks from the potential of non-performance of the counterparty.
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following tables present the financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the fair value hierarchy of the respective valuation techniques utilized to determine the fair value:
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2021
Quoted Prices
Significant
Significant
in Active Markets
Observable
Unobservable
for Identical Assets
Inputs
Inputs
(in thousands)
Fair Value
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Financial assets:
Available-for-sale debt securities:
U.S. Treasury securities
$ 36,355 $ - $ 36,355 $ -
Obligations of state and political subdivisions
244,372 - 244,372 -
U.S. government/government-sponsored agencies:
Collateralized mortgage obligations - residential
100,710 - 100,710 -
Collateralized mortgage obligations - commercial
3,727 - 3,727 -
Mortgage-backed securities
25,506 - 25,506 -
Private collateralized mortgage obligations
67,165 - 67,165 -
Corporate debt securities
32,063 - 19,718 12,345
Asset-backed securities
11,932 - 11,932 -
Negotiable certificates of deposit
736 - 736 -
Total available-for-sale debt securities
522,566 - 510,221 12,345
Equity securities, at fair value
4,922 4,922 - -
Derivative assets
363 - 363 -
Total financial assets
$ 527,851 $ 4,922 $ 510,584 $ 12,345
Financial liabilities:
Derivative liabilities
$ 99 $ - $ 99 $ -
Total financial liabilities
$ 99 $ - $ 99 $ -
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2020
Quoted Prices
Significant
Significant
in Active Markets
Observable
Unobservable
for Identical Assets
Inputs
Inputs
(in thousands)
Fair Value
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Financial assets:
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Obligations of state and political subdivisions
$ 205,828 $ - $ 205,828 $ -
U.S. government/government-sponsored agencies:
Collateralized mortgage obligations - residential
56,972 - 56,972 -
Collateralized mortgage obligations - commercial
3,904 - 3,904 -
Mortgage-backed securities
13,026 - 13,026 -
Private collateralized mortgage obligations
38,199 - 38,199 -
Corporate debt securities
24,580 - 8,156 16,424
Asset-backed securities
7,526 - 7,526 -
Total available-for-sale debt securities
350,035 - 333,612 16,424
Equity Securities, at fair value
3,026 3,026 - -
Derivative assets
23 - 23 -
Total financial assets
$ 353,084 $ 3,026 $ 333,635 $ 16,424
Financial liabilities:
Derivative liabilities
$ 143 $ - $ 143 $ -
Total financial liabilities
$ 143 $ - $ 143 $ -
Eight corporate debt securities were transferred from Level 3 hierarchy to Level 2 during the year ended December 31, 2021. The market for these securities was previously not active and management obtained fair values from an independent third party that utilized a discounted cash flow model. During 2021, the market of these securities became active. Accordingly, management was able to obtain fair values for these eight securities from the independent pricing service used to price the remainder of the portfolio.
There were no transfers between levels within the fair value hierarchy during the year ended December 31, 2020.
The following table presents a reconciliation and statement of operations classification of gains and losses for all assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), which consisted entirely of corporate debt securities, for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Fair Value Measurements
Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Corporate Debt Securities
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Balance at January 1,
$ 16,424 $ 5,150
Additions
4,500 11,800
Redemptions
(1,000 ) (1,015 )
Transfer to Level 2
(7,550 ) -
Total gains or losses (realized/unrealized):
Included in earnings
- 15
Included in other comprehensive income
(29 ) 474
Balance at December 31,
$ 12,345 $ 16,424
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis
The following tables present assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at December 31, 2021 and 2020, and additional quantitative information about the valuation techniques and inputs utilized by FNCB to determine fair value. All such assets and liabilities were measured using Level 3 inputs.
December 31, 2021
Fair Value Measurement
Quantitative Information
Recorded
Valuation
Fair
Valuation
Unobservable
Value/
(in thousands)
Investment
Allowance
Value
Technique
Inputs
Range
Impaired loans - collateral dependent
$ 3,208 $ - $ 3,208 Appraisal of collateral
Selling costs
10.0%
Impaired loans - other
6,765 26 6,739 Discounted cash flows
Discount rate
3.00% - 8.75 %
Other real estate owned
920 - 920 Appraisal of collateral/Sales Contract
Selling costs
1.00%
December 31, 2020
Fair Value Measurement
Quantitative Information
Recorded
Valuation
Fair
Valuation
Unobservable
Value/
(in thousands)
Investment
Allowance
Value
Technique
Inputs
Range
Impaired loans - collateral dependent
$
4,244
$
$
4,026
Appraisal of collateral
Selling costs
10.0%
Impaired loans - other
7,491
7,293
Discounted cash flows
Discount rate
3.00%
-
8.75%
Other real estate owned
-
Appraisal of collateral
Selling costs
10.0%
The fair value of collateral-dependent impaired loans is determined through independent appraisals or other reasonable offers, which generally include various Level 3 inputs which are not identifiable. Management reduces the appraised value by the estimated costs to sell the property and may make adjustments to the appraised values as necessary to consider any declines in real estate values since the time of the appraisal. For impaired loans that are not collateral-dependent, fair value is determined using the discounted cash flow method. When the measure of the impaired loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan, the impairment is recorded through a valuation allowance or is charged off. The amount shown is the balance of impaired loans, net of any charge-offs and the related allowance for loan losses.
OREO properties are recorded at fair value less the estimated cost to sell at the date of FNCB’s acquisition of the property. Subsequent to acquisition of the property, the balance may be written down further. It is FNCB’s policy to obtain certified external appraisals of real estate collateral underlying impaired loans and OREO, and estimate fair value using those appraisals. Other valuation sources may be used, including broker price opinions, letters of intent and executed sale agreements.
The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of FNCB’s financial instruments at December 31, 2021 and 2020. FNCB discloses fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not recognized in the statements of financial condition, for which it is practicable to estimate that value. The fair value of financial instruments that are not measured at fair value in the financial statements were based on exit price notion. The following estimated fair value amounts have been determined using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. However, management judgment is required to interpret data and develop fair value estimates. Accordingly, the estimates below are not necessarily indicative of the amounts FNCB could realize in a current market exchange. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts.
Fair Value
December 31, 2021
December 31, 2020
(in thousands)
Measurement
Carrying Value
Fair Value
Carrying Value
Fair Value
Financial assets:
Cash and short term investments
Level 1
$ 99,020 $ 99,020 $ 155,811 $ 155,811
Available-for-sale debt securities
See previous table
522,566 522,566 350,035 350,035
Equity securities
Level 1
4,922 4,922 3,026 3,026
Restricted stock
Level 2
1,911 1,911 1,745 1,745
Loans held for sale
Level 2
- - 2,107 2,107
Loans, net
Level 3
967,023 967,087 889,152 891,880
Accrued interest receivable
Level 2
4,643 4,643 4,286 4,286
Servicing rights
Level 3
268 526 324 479
Derivative assets
Level 2
371 363 23 23
Financial liabilities:
Deposits
Level 2
1,455,028 1,454,812 1,287,448 1,288,567
Borrowed funds
Level 2
30,310 30,310 10,310 10,310
Accrued interest payable
Level 2
49 49 108 108
Derivative liabilities
Level 2
96 99 135 143
Note 16. EARNINGS PER SHARE
For FNCB, the numerator of both the basic and diluted earnings per share of common stock is net income available to common shareholders. The weighted average number of common shares outstanding used in the denominator for basic earnings per common share is increased to determine the denominator used for diluted earnings per common share by the effect of potentially dilutive common share equivalents utilizing the treasury stock method. For each of the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 common stock equivalents reflected in the table above were related entirely to the incremental shares of unvested restricted stock.
The following table presents the calculation of both basic and diluted earnings per share of common stock for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands, except share data)
Net income
$ 21,371 $ 15,347
Basic weighted-average number of common stock outstanding
20,111,430 20,210,439
Plus: common share equivalents
15,423 1,747
Diluted weighted-average number of common stock outstanding
20,126,853 20,212,187
Income per share of common stock:
Basic
$ 1.06 $ 0.76
Diluted
$ 1.06 $ 0.76
Note 17. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME
The following tables summarize the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
For the year Ended December 31, 2021
Amount Reclassified
from Accumulated
Affected Line Item
Other Comprehensive
in the Consolidated
(in thousands)
Income
Statements of Income
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Reclassification adjustment for net gains reclassified into net income
$ (213 ) Net gain on the sale of available-for-sale securities
Taxes
45 Income taxes
Net of tax amount
$ (168 )
For the year Ended December 31, 2020
Amount Reclassified
from Accumulated
Affected Line Item
Other Comprehensive
in the Consolidated
(in thousands)
Income
Statements of Income
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Reclassification adjustment for net gains reclassified into net income
$ (1,528 ) Net gain on the sale of available-for-sale securities
Taxes
321 Income taxes
Net of tax amount
$ (1,207 )
The following table summarizes the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020:
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Balance, January 1,
$ 13,886 $ 3,056
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications
(7,366 ) 12,037
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
(168 ) (1,207 )
Net other comprehensive (loss) income during the period
(7,534 ) 10,830
Balance, December 31,
$ 6,352 $ 13,886
Note 18. CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION - PARENT COMPANY ONLY
The following tables present condensed parent company only financial information:
Condensed Statements of Financial Condition
December 31,
(in thousands)
Assets:
Cash
$ 11,423 $ 11,296
Investment in statutory trust
431 425
Investment in subsidiary (equity method)
155,342 151,700
Equity securities, at fair value
4,016 2,093
Other assets
1,800 726
Total assets
$ 173,012 $ 166,240
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity:
Junior subordinated debentures
$ 10,310 $ 10,310
Accrued interest payable
9 9
Other liabilities
236 61
Total liabilities
10,555 10,380
Shareholders’ equity
162,457 155,860
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$ 173,012 $ 166,240
Condensed Statements of Income
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Income:
Dividends from subsidiaries
$ 10,000 $ 10,000
Interest and dividend income
168 75
Gain on equity securities
728 1,158
Trust income
6 8
Other income
5 -
Total income
10,907 11,241
Expense:
Interest on junior subordinated debt
191 251
Other operating expenses
351 312
Total expenses
542 563
Income before income taxes
10,365 10,679
Provision for income taxes
170 6
Income before equity in undistributed net income of subsidiary
10,195 10,673
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiary
11,176 4,675
Net income
$ 21,371 $ 15,347
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
For the Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
$ 21,371 $ 15,347
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Equity in undistributed income of subsidiary
(11,176 ) (4,675 )
Equity in trust
(6 ) (8 )
Gain on equity securities
(728 ) (1,158 )
Decrease in other assets
(548 ) 621
Decrease in accrued interest payable
- (7 )
Increase in other liabilities
175 20
Net cash provided by operating activities
9,088 10,140
Cash flows from investing activities:
Investment in Subsidiary
- (5,000 )
Proceeds from the sale/transfer of equity securities
- 1,223
Purchases of equity securities
(1,195 ) (500 )
Purchase of equity security without a readily determinable fair value
- (500 )
Net cash used in investing activities
(1,195 ) (4,777 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common shares
58 37
Repurchase of common shares
(2,397 ) -
Cash dividends paid
(5,427 ) (4,447 )
Net cash used in financing activities
(7,766 ) (4,410 )
Net increase in cash
127 953
Cash at beginning of year
11,296 10,343
Cash at end of year
$ 11,423 $ 11,296

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ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.

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ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
FNCB’s management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of FNCB’s disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as of December 31, 2021.
Based on that evaluation, FNCB’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded FNCB’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2021.
There were no changes made to FNCB’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, FNCB’s internal control over financial reporting.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for FNCB Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”). Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States and is not intended to provide absolute assurance that a misstatement of the Company’s financial statements would be prevented or detected.
Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are only being made in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Any control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. The design of a control system inherently has limitations and the benefits of controls must be weighed against their costs. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the controls. Therefore, no assessment of a cost-effective system of internal controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, will be detected.
As of December 31, 2021, management of the Company conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Management’s assessment included extensive documenting, evaluating and testing the design and operating effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.
Based on this evaluation under the criteria in the Framework, management concluded that the Company’s system of internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2021.
/s/ Gerard A. Champi /s/ James M. Bone, Jr., CPA
Gerard A. Champi
President and Chief Executive Officer
James M. Bone, Jr., CPA
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

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ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 9B.
Other Information
None

---

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Item 10.
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
The information concerning the Directors and Executive Officers of FNCB required by this Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections entitled “Information as to Nominees, Directors and Executive Officers” in FNCB’s Definitive Proxy Statement for its 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on or about April 4, 2022 (the “Proxy Statement”). Disclosure of compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, by FNCB’s Directors and Executive Officers is incorporated by reference to the section entitled “Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports” in the Proxy Statement. In addition, information concerning Audit Committee and Audit Committee Financial Expert is included in the Proxy Statement under the caption “Audit Committee Report” and is incorporated herein by reference.
FNCB has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (the “Code”) that applies to FNCB’s directors and employees, including the President and Principal Executive Officer (“PEO”), Principal Financial Officer (“PFO”) and Principal Accounting Officer (“PAO”). The Code includes guidelines relating to compliance with laws, the ethical handling of actual or potential conflicts of interest, the use of corporate opportunities, protection and use of FNCB’s confidential information, accepting gifts and business courtesies, accurate financial and regulatory reporting, and procedures for promoting compliance with, and reporting violations of, the Code. The Code is available on FNCB’s website at www.fncb.com/investorrelations/ under the heading “Governance Documents.” FNCB intends to post any amendments to the Code on its website and also to disclose any waivers (to the extent applicable to FNCB’s President, PEO, PFO or PAO) on a Form 8-K within the prescribed time period.

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ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Item 11.
Executive Compensation.
The information required by this Item 11 is incorporated herein by reference to the section entitled “Executive Compensation” in FNCB’s Proxy Statement.

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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
Item 12.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
The information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management required by this Item 12 is incorporated herein by reference to the section entitled “Principal Beneficial Owners of FNCB’s Common Stock” in FNCB’s Proxy Statement. The information regarding securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans by this Item 12 is incorporated by reference to the section entitled "Equity Compensation Plan Information" in FNCB's Proxy Statement.

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ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Item 13.
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
The information required by this Item 13 related to certain relationships and related transactions is incorporated herein by reference to the section entitled “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” in FNCB’s Proxy Statement. The information required under this Item 13 related to Director Independence is incorporated herein by reference to the section entitled “Corporate Governance” in FNCB’s Proxy Statement.

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ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Item 14.
Principal Accounting Fees and Services.
The information required by this Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference to the section entitled “Fees Paid to Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in FNCB’s Proxy Statement.
PART IV

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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
Item 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
1.
Financial Statements
The following financial statements are included by reference in Part II, Item 8 hereof:
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
Consolidated Statements of Income
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
2.
Financial Statement Schedules
Financial Statement Schedules are omitted because the required information is either not applicable, not required or is shown in the respective financial statements or in the notes thereto.
3.
The following exhibits are filed herewith or incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 3.1
Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of FNCB Bancorp, Inc. dated May 19, 2010 - filed as Exhibit 3.1 to FNCB’s Current Report on Form 8-K on May 19, 2010, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 3.2
Articles of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation dated October 4, 2016 - filed as Exhibit 3.1 to FNCB’s Current Report on Form 8-K on October 11, 2016, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 3.3 Amended and Restated Bylaws - filed as Exhibit 3.1 to FNCB's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2020, as filed on May 4, 2020, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 4.1
Form of Common Stock Certificate - filed as Exhibit 4.1 to FNCB’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2016, as filed on November 4, 2016, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 4.2
Form of Amended and Restated Subordinated Note - filed as Exhibit 4.2 to FNCB’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2015, as filed on August 7, 2015, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 4.3 Indenture by and between First National Community Bancorp, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, dated as of December 14, 2006 - filed as Exhibit 10.2 to FNCB's Current Report on Form 8-K on December 19, 2006, SEC file number 333-24121, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 4.4 Description of Securities - filed as Exhibit 4.4 to FNCB's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, as filed on March 12, 2021, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.1
Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust by and among Wilmington Trust Company First National Community Bancorp, Inc. and with individuals as administrators, dated as of December 14, 2006 - filed as Exhibit 10.1 to FNCB’s 8-K on December 19, 2006 is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.2
Guarantee Agreement by and between First National Community Bancorp, Inc. and Wilmington Trust Company, dated as of December 14, 2006 - filed as Exhibit 10.4 to FNCB’s Current Report on Form 8-K on December 19, 2006, SEC file number 333-24121, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.3+
Directors’ and Officers’ Deferred Compensation Plan - filed as Exhibit 10.4 to FNCB’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 - as filed on March 16, 2005, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.4+
2013 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan - filed as Exhibit 10.1 to FNCB’s Current Report on Form 8-K on December 27, 2013, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.5+
Executive Incentive Plan - filed as Exhibit 10.14 to FNCB’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, as filed on March 28, 2013, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.6+
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement - filed as Exhibit 4.2 to FNCB’s Form S-8 on January 24, 2014 is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.7+
Form of Stock Option Award Agreement - filed as Exhibit 4.3 to FNCB’s Form S-8 on January 24, 2014 is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.8+
First National Community Bank Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan - filed as Exhibit 10.16 to FNCB’s Current Report on Form 8-K on October 2, 2015, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.9+
Employment Agreement Between First National Community Bank and Gerard A. Champi, COO - filed as Exhibit 10.17 to FNCB’s Current Report on Form 8-K on October 2, 2015, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.10+
Employment Agreement Between First National Community Bancorp, Inc., First National Community Bank and James M. Bone, Jr. CFO - filed as Exhibit 10.18 to FNCB’s Current Report on Form 8-K on October 2, 2015, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.11+
Employment Agreement Between First National Community Bank and Brian C. Mahlstedt, CLO - filed as Exhibit 10.19 to FNCB’s Current Report on Form 8-K on October 2, 2015, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 10.12*+ Change in Form of Control Agreement
EXHIBIT 21
Subsidiaries- filed as Exhibit 21.1 to FNCB’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 , as filed on September 28, 2018, is hereby incorporated by reference.
EXHIBIT 23*
Consent of Baker Tilly US, LLP
EXHIBIT 31.1*
Certification of Chief Executive Officer
EXHIBIT 31.2*
Certification of Chief Financial Officer
EXHIBIT 32**
Section 1350 Certification - Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
EXHIBIT 101.INS
INLINE XBRL INSTANCE DOCUMENT (THE INSTANCE DOCUMENT DOES NOT APPEAR IN THE INTERACTIVE DATA FILE BECAUSE ITS XBRL TAGS ARE EMBEDDED WITHIN THE INLINE XBRL DOCUMENT)
EXHIBIT 101.SCH INLINE XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION SCHEMA
EXHIBIT 101.CAL INLINE XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION CALCULATION LINKBASE
EXHIBIT 101.DEF INLINE XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION DEFINITION LINKBASE
EXHIBIT 101.LAB INLINE XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION LABLE LINKBASE
EXHIBIT 101.PRE INLINE XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION PRESENTATION LINKBASE
EXHIBIT 104 COVER PAGE INTERATIVE DATA FILE (FORMATTED AS INLINE XBRL AND CONTAINED IN EXHIBIT 101)
_____________________________
* Filed herewith
** Furnished herewith
+ Management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement