EDGAR 10-K Filing

Company CIK: 1050743
Filing Year: 2024
Filename: 1050743_10-K_2024_0000950170-24-029761.json

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ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Item 1.	BUSINESS
The disclosures set forth in this Form 10-K are qualified by Item 1A - Risk Factors and the section captioned “Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements” in Item 7 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this report and other cautionary statements set forth elsewhere in this report and filed by us from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The terms “Peapack,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries unless otherwise indicated or the context requires otherwise.
The Corporation
Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation is a bank holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “Bank Holding Company Act”). The Company was organized under New Jersey law in 1997 by the Board of Directors of Peapack-Gladstone Bank (the “Bank”), its principal subsidiary. The Bank is a state chartered commercial bank founded in 1921 under New Jersey laws. The Bank is a member of the Federal Reserve System. Through its branch network in Somerset, Morris, Hunterdon and Union counties and its private banking locations in Bedminster, Morristown, Princeton and Teaneck, its private wealth management, commercial private banking, retail private banking and residential lending divisions, along with its online platforms, Peapack-Gladstone Bank is committed to offering unparalleled client service. Additionally, the Company signed a lease for future market expansion into New York City.
Our wealth management clients include individuals, families, foundations, endowments, trusts and estates. Our commercial loan clients include business owners, professionals, retailers, contractors and real estate investors. Most forms of commercial lending are offered, including working capital lines of credit, term loans for fixed asset acquisitions, commercial mortgages, multifamily mortgages and other forms of asset-based financing.
In addition to commercial lending activities, we offer a wide range of consumer banking services, including checking and savings accounts, money market and interest-bearing checking accounts, certificates of deposit, and individual retirement accounts. We also offer residential mortgages, home equity lines of credit and other second mortgage loans. Automated teller machines are available at 18 locations. Internet banking, including an online bill payment option and mobile phone banking, is available.
Available Information
Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation is a public company, and files interim, quarterly and annual reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). These reports and any amendments to these reports are available for free on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov, and on our website, www.pgbank.com, as soon as reasonably practical after they have been filed with or furnished to the SEC. Information on our website should not be considered a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Human Capital Resources
We believe our employees are our most important resource and are critical to our success and ability to provide outstanding service to our customers. As of December 31, 2023, we had 521 full-time and part-time employees, with 274 at our corporate headquarters, 92 in our branch offices and 155 in other locations. We believe that we have good relationships with our employees.
Hiring and Promotion
We look to hire internally for positions whenever possible. When this is not the case, we source candidates from multiple avenues, including referrals, utilizing online platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Circa, the New Jersey Department of Labor website and our own corporate website. We also post advertisements at our branch locations, participate in on-site career fairs, and reach out to local community organizations to promote open positions. Additionally, we meet with local colleges and host career workshops for students to further develop our talent pool. This approach has improved our brand awareness in the community and our ability to grow diverse hires.
Talent Development
The continuous development and succession of our employees is a primary focus. We conduct regular talent reviews for the purpose of succession planning and developing our employees. In addition to regulatory training courses, we offer ethics and subject matter training sessions regularly. On an annual basis, we offer career development, performance enhancement and leadership development opportunities. Experiential learning opportunities are also available on an individualized basis. We maintain a mentorship program and a peer recognition program in which all employees can participate. Our President and CEO hosts a monthly company update accessible to all employees. Tuition reimbursement, up to $10,000 annually, is offered to full-time employees after completion of one year of employment and successful course completion.
We conduct an annual employee engagement survey by utilizing the American Banker ‘Best Banks to Work for Survey’, a third-party survey that collects employee feedback on areas that include, but are not limited to, leadership, corporate culture and communications, training and development resources, role satisfaction, pay and benefits and overall engagement. We review the detailed results to identify areas of opportunity and develop steps to improve, as well as take actions in those areas. We invite all employees to participate and have received a high level of survey participation. Based on our survey results, we have been awarded recognition as an American Banker ‘Best Banks to Work For’ for the previous six years (2018-2023).
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
We are an employer that champions diversity, equity and inclusion in our workplace. Our strategy focuses on maintaining hiring levels that are representative of the communities in which we serve, as well as improving diversity representation in our senior roles. We have dedicated actions to drive a more diverse workforce, with focus in the areas of brand awareness and sourcing, recruiting and hiring, cultural awareness and appreciation, and furthering our development opportunities for all employees.
Our Cultural Ambassador Committee, established in 2019, consists of non-executive employees and is sponsored by our CEO, Chief Human Resource Officer and our President of Commercial Banking. The Committee was created to sustain and evolve our corporate culture through ongoing communication, awareness, engagement and advocacy of our core principles, including diversity, inclusion and volunteerism. We have seven employee resource groups, focusing on areas such as wellness, the environment, core principles and diversity and inclusion.
Additionally, we maintain an Anti-Discrimination and Harassment Policy as well as a workplace harassment training course which must be completed annually by all employees.
Employee Health and Safety
The safety, health and well-being of our employees and customers is extremely important to us. Employees are permitted to leverage a new flexible work arrangement offered by management provided their performance remains in good standing. The combination of working remotely and in the office enables employees to continue be more productive, completing tasks with less interruption when remote, while still having the opportunity to collaborate with peers in the workplace. Virtual meeting and teleconference platforms continue to be utilized to maintain a safe and productive work environment.
Compensation and Benefits
We seek to attract, motivate and retain the best talent in a competitive marketplace by offering an attractive compensation and benefits package. Compensation includes a market competitive salary, and for eligible positions, annual incentives or cash bonuses and participation in long-term incentive awards as well as an opportunity to participate in our discounted employee stock purchase plan.
Work/life balance is an important part of our culture, and in support of this we offer a broad list of benefits for eligible employees, which includes a comprehensive suite of health insurance benefits, paid time off, maternity and paternity leave, access to employee assistance programs, retirement planning and 401(k) Plan participation with a generous company match. Wellness programs are deeply embedded in our culture and other ancillary benefits such as pet insurance, identity protection coverage and supplemental insurance are provided.
Community Involvement
We actively reinvest in our communities with the greatest needs. We encourage volunteerism, supporting organizations valued by our employees and clients. Our employees are generous with their time in their support of local organizations. In 2023, we performed over 2,000 hours of service and provided financial support to over 271 charitable organizations. We are proud to be known and recognized locally and nationally for our community involvement.
Peapack-Gladstone Bank’s Private Wealth Management Division (“Peapack Private”)
Peapack Private is a New Jersey-chartered trust and investment business with $10.9 billion of assets under management and/or administration as of December 31, 2023. It is headquartered in Bedminster, New Jersey with additional private banking locations throughout New Jersey in Morristown, Princeton, Red Bank, Summit and Teaneck, New Jersey, as well as at the Bank’s subsidiary, PGB Trust & Investments of Delaware, in Greenville, Delaware. Peapack Private is known for its integrity, client service and broad range of fiduciary, investment management and tax services, designed specifically to meet the needs of high net-worth individuals, families, foundations and endowments.
Our wealth management business differentiates us from our competition and adds significant value. We intend to grow this business further, both in and around our market; through our existing wealth, loan and depository client base; our innovative private banking service model, which utilizes private bankers working together to provide fully integrated client solutions; and potential acquisitions of complimentary wealth management businesses. Throughout the wealth management division and all other business lines, we will continue to provide the unparalleled personalized, high-touch service our valued clients have come to expect.
Our Markets
Our current market is defined as the New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania metropolitan statistical area, with our primary market areas being in New Jersey and New York. According to estimates from the United States Census Bureau, as of 2018-2022, New Jersey had a total population exceeding 9.3 million and a median household income of $97,126, and Somerset County, where we are headquartered, is one of the wealthiest counties in New Jersey, with a median household income of $131,948; compared to a U.S. median household income of $75,149. We believe that these markets have economic and competitive dynamics that are consistent with our objectives and favorable to executing our growth strategy.
Competition
We operate in a market area with a high concentration of banking and financial institutions and we face substantial competition in attracting deposits and in originating loans and leases. A number of our competitors are significantly larger institutions with greater financial and managerial resources and lending limits. Our ability to compete successfully is a significant factor affecting our growth potential and profitability.
Our competition for deposits, loans and leases historically has come from other insured financial institutions such as local and regional commercial banks, savings institutions, leasing companies and credit unions located in our primary market area. We also compete with mortgage banking and finance companies for real estate loans and with commercial banks, savings institutions and credit unions for consumer loans.
We also face direct competition for wealth and advisory services from registered investment advisory firms and investment management companies.
Our Business Strategy
In 2022, we initiated the “Refining Our Strategy” phase of our Strategic Plan, a natural evolution of the groundwork set forth in 2013. Almost ten years after the launch and successful execution of the “Expanding Our Reach” strategy, we recognized refinements were necessary to address several industry headwinds that assume:
•margin pressure is likely to continue for the foreseeable future given the expansion of digital banks and nature of economic cycles, including the current economic climate with a continued inversion of the yield curve, elevated interest rates, and intense competition for deposits, especially locally;
•costs associated with compliance, risk management and cybersecurity would continue to increase significantly, and the increasing utilization of technology externally by clients and internally by banks would require significant investment to remain competitive and demand higher returns on capital;
•our clients have become so accustomed to automation and technology, which only accelerated because of the COVID-19 pandemic, that there would continue to be a shift from transactions in traditional branches in favor of electronic delivery channels; and
•given the technology evolution and resulting pressure from a competitive standpoint, strong and updated technology is a requirement, but our differentiation must be in the level and quality of service we provide.
On the heels of several major bank failures in 2023, we believe it is more important than ever to remain grounded in our relationship-based approach while continuing to diversify our business model further, included geographic expansion.
The key elements of our business strategy include:
•a robust wealth management business that provides a diversified and stable source of revenue over time, through organic growth and strategic acquisitions;
•an emphasis on commercial banking with private bankers focused on providing high-touch client service through an advice-based approach encompassing corporate and industrial (“C&I”) lending (including equipment finance lending and leasing), wealth management, depository services, electronic banking, Small Business Administration (“SBA”) loans, other commercial real estate lending, and corporate advisory services;
•a unified “One Company” culture heavily focused on unparalleled “white glove” customer service designed and centered around best-in-class hospitality standards and delivered by experienced industry professionals across all business lines;
•highly efficient branch network and deposit gathering processes;
•expanding our footprint to include areas that naturally fit with our geography and/or business model;
•robust risk management processes, including, but not limited to, active loan portfolio, capital, liquidity, and interest rate risk stress testing; and
•a focus on the communities which we serve with a strong commitment to community service and involvement.
Governmental Policies and Legislation
The banking industry is highly regulated. Statutory and regulatory controls increase a bank holding company’s cost of doing business and limit the options of its management to deploy assets and maximize income. Proposals to change the laws and regulations governing the operations and taxation of banks, bank holding companies and other financial institutions are frequently made in Congress, in state legislatures and before various bank regulatory agencies. The likelihood of any major changes and the impact such changes might have on the Company or the Bank is impossible to predict. The following description is not intended to be complete and is qualified in its entirety to applicable laws and regulations.
Bank Regulation
As a New Jersey-chartered commercial bank, the Bank is subject to the regulation, supervision, and examination by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (“NJDOBI”). As a Federal Reserve-member bank, the Bank is also subject to the regulation, supervision and examination by the Federal Reserve Board (“FRB”) as its primary federal regulator. The regulations of the FRB and the NJDOBI impact virtually all of our activities, including the minimum levels of capital we must maintain, our ability to pay dividends, our ability to expand through new branches or acquisitions and various other matters.
Holding Company Supervision
The Company is a bank holding company and periodically examined within the meaning of the Bank Holding Company Act. As a bank holding company, the Company is supervised by the FRB and is required to file reports with the FRB and provide such additional information as the FRB may require.
The Bank Holding Company Act prohibits the Company, with certain exceptions, from (i) acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of more than five percent of the voting shares of any company that is not a bank and (ii) from engaging in any business other than banking, managing and controlling banks, or furnishing services to subsidiary banks, However, the Company may apply to engage in, or own shares of companies engaged in, certain businesses found by the FRB to be so closely related to banking “as to be a proper incident thereto.” The Bank Holding Company Act requires prior approval by the FRB of the acquisition by the Company of more than five percent of the voting stock of any additional bank. Generally, federal regulatory approval to make acquisitions requires as prerequisites satisfactory capital ratios, Community Reinvestment Act ratings and anti-money laundering policies, among other things. Federal law provides that a bank holding company must act as a source of financial strength to its subsidiary bank and commit resources to support the subsidiary banks in circumstances in which it might not do so absent that law. Acquisitions through the Bank require the approval of the FRB and the NJDOBI.
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Report and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) significantly changed bank regulation and affected the lending, investment, trading and operating activities of depository institutions and their holding companies. The Dodd-Frank Act also created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (the “CFPB”) with extensive powers to supervise and enforce consumer protection laws. The CFPB has broad rule-making authority for a wide range of consumer protection laws that apply to all banks and savings institutions. The CFPB also has examination and enforcement authority over all banks and savings institutions with more than $10 billion in assets. Banks and savings institutions with $10 billion or less in assets, such as the Bank, continue to be examined for compliance with consumer protection-related laws and regulations by their applicable federal bank regulators.
Capital Requirements
Pursuant to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 (“FDICIA”), each federal banking agency has promulgated regulations, specifying the levels at which a financial institution would be considered “well capitalized,” “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized,” or “critically undercapitalized,” and to take certain mandatory and discretionary supervisory actions based on the capital level of the institution.
FRB regulations require member banks to meet several minimum capital standards established by the federal banking agencies, which are based on the final capital framework for strengthening international capital standards, known as Basel III, of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision: a common equity Tier 1 (“CET1”) capital to risk-based assets ratio of 4.5 percent, a Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 6.0 percent, a total capital to risk-based assets ratio of 8.0 percent, and a Tier 1 capital to total assets leverage ratio of 4.0 percent.
CET1 capital is generally defined as common stockholders’ equity and retained earnings. Tier 1 capital is generally defined as CET1 and additional Tier 1 capital. Additional Tier 1 capital includes certain noncumulative perpetual preferred stock and related surplus and minority interests in equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries. Total capital includes Tier 1 capital and Tier 2 capital. Tier 2 capital is comprised of capital instruments and related surplus, meeting specified requirements, and may include cumulative preferred stock and long-term perpetual preferred stock, mandatory convertible securities, intermediate preferred stock and subordinated debt.
The capital requirements also require the Company and the Bank to maintain a 2.5 percent “capital conservation buffer,” composed entirely of CET1, on top of the minimum risk-weighted asset ratios, effectively resulting in minimum ratios of (i) CET1 to risk-weighted assets of at least 7.0 percent, (ii) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 8.5 percent, and (iii) total capital to risk-weighted assets of at least 10.5 percent. The capital conservation buffer is designed to absorb losses during periods of economic stress. Banking institutions with a ratio of (i) CET1 to risk-weighted assets, (ii) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets, or (iii) total capital to risk-weighted assets above the respective minimum but below the capital conservation buffer will face constraints on dividends, equity repurchases and discretionary bonus payments to executive officers based on the amount of the shortfall.
Bank holding companies with greater than $3 billion in total consolidated assets are subject to consolidated regulatory capital requirements identical to those applicable to the subsidiary depository institutions. The Company and the Bank were in compliance with the capital requirements, including the capital conservation buffer, as of December 31, 2023.
Federal law requires that federal bank regulatory authorities take “prompt corrective action” with respect to institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements. The FRB maintains regulations to implement the prompt corrective action legislation. An institution is deemed to be “well capitalized” if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of 10.0 percent or greater, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 8.0 percent or greater, a leverage ratio of 5.0 percent or greater and a CET1 ratio of 6.5
percent or greater. An institution is deemed to be “adequately capitalized” if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of 8.0 percent or greater, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6.0 percent or greater, a leverage ratio of 4.0 percent or greater and a CET1 ratio of 4.5 percent or greater. An institution is deemed to be “undercapitalized” if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 8.0 percent, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 6.0 percent, a leverage ratio of less than 4.0 percent or a CET1 ratio of less than 4.5 percent. An institution is deemed to be “significantly undercapitalized” if it has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 6.0 percent, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 4.0 percent, a leverage ratio of less than 3.0 percent or a CET1 ratio of less than 3.0 percent. An institution is deemed to be “critically undercapitalized” if it has a ratio of tangible equity (as defined in the regulations) to total assets that is equal to or less than 2.0 percent.
The Company and the Bank’s capital ratios were all above the minimum levels required for it to be considered a “well capitalized” financial institution at December 31, 2023 under the “prompt corrective action” regulations in effect as of such date.
The Economic Growth Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act of 2018 (the "Relief Act") required that the federal banking agencies, including the FRB, establish a “community bank leverage ratio” of between 8-10 percent of average total consolidated assets for qualifying institutions with less than $10 billion of assets. Pursuant to federal legislation enacted in 2020, the community bank leverage ratio was set at 9 percent for 2022 and thereafter. Institutions with tangible equity (subject to certain adjustments) meeting the specified level and electing to follow the alternative framework would be deemed to comply with the applicable regulatory capital requirements, including the risk-based requirements, and be considered to be “well-capitalized.” The Bank has not elected to measure its capital adequacy using the community bank leverage ratio.
Insurance of Deposit Accounts
The Bank’s deposits are insured up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund ("DIF") of the FDIC. Deposit accounts in the Bank are insured up to $250,000 for each separately insured depositor per account ownership category.
The FDIC charges insured depository institutions ("IDI") premiums to maintain the Deposit Insurance Fund. Under the risk-based assessment system, institutions deemed less risky of failure pay lower assessments. Assessments for institutions of less than $10 billion of assets are based on financial measures and supervisory ratings derived from statistical modeling estimating the probability of an institution’s failure within three years.
The FDIC has authority to increase insurance assessments. Effective January 1, 2023, assessment rates for institutions of the Bank’s size ranged from 2.5 to 32 basis points.
Further, on November 16, 2023, the FDIC issued a final rule to implement a special assessment to recover the loss to the DIF associated with protecting uninsured depositors following the closure of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. Under the final rule, the assessment base for an IDI will be equal to the institution's estimated uninsured deposits as of December 31, 2022, adjusted to exclude the first $5 billion in estimated uninsured deposits. Under the final rule, the FDIC will collect the special assessment at an annual rate of 13.4 basis points beginning with the first quarterly assessment period of 2024 and will continue to collect special assessments for an anticipated total of eight quarterly assessment periods.
An insured institution’s deposit insurance may be terminated by the FDIC upon an administrative finding that the institution has engaged in unsafe or unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations or has violated any applicable law, regulation, rule, order or regulatory condition imposed in writing. The management of the Bank does not know of any practice, condition or violation that might lead to termination of deposit insurance.
Community Reinvestment Act
Pursuant to the federal Community Reinvestment Act (the “CRA”), the Bank is obligated, consistent with safe and sound banking practices, to help meet the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. The FRB periodically assesses the Bank’s record of performance under the CRA and issue one of the following ratings: “Outstanding,” “Satisfactory,” “Needs to Improve,” or “Substantial Noncompliance.” The most recently completed evaluation of the Bank’s performance under the CRA was conducted by the FRB in 2021 and resulted in an overall rating of “Satisfactory.” On October 24, 2023, the FDIC, the FRB, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency issued a final rule to strengthen and modernize the federal CRA regulations. Under the final rule, banks with assets of at least $2 billion as of December 31 in both of the prior two calendar years will be a “large bank.” The agencies will evaluate large banks under four performance tests: the Retail Lending Test, the Retail Services and Products Test, the Community Development
Financing Test, and the Community Development Services Test. The applicability date for the majority of the provisions in the CRA regulations is January 1, 2026, and additional requirements will be applicable on January 1, 2027.
Privacy
Federal banking regulators, as required under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, have adopted regulations limiting the ability of banks and other financial institutions to disclose non-public information about consumers to non-affiliated third parties. The regulations require disclosure of privacy policies to consumers and, in some circumstances, allow consumers to prevent disclosure of certain personal information to non-affiliated third parties. The privacy provisions of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act affect how consumer information is transmitted through diversified financial services companies and conveyed to outside vendors.
In November 2021, the federal bank regulatory agencies issued a final rule requiring banking organizations to notify their primary federal regulator as soon as possible and no later than 36 hours of determining that a “computer-security incident” that rises to the level of a “notification incident,” as those terms are defined in the final rule, has occurred. A notification incident is a “computer-security incident” that has materially disrupted or degraded, or is reasonably likely to materially disrupt or degrade, the banking organization’s ability to deliver services to a material portion of its customer base, jeopardize the viability of key operations of the banking organization, or impact the stability of the financial sector. The final rule also requires bank service providers to notify any affected bank to or on behalf of which the service provider provides services “as soon as possible” after determining that it has experienced an incident that materially disrupts or degrades, or is reasonably likely to materially disrupt or degrade, covered services provided to such bank for four or more hours. The rule was effective April 1, 2022, with compliance required by May 1, 2022.
Restrictions on the Payment of Dividends
The holders of the Company’s common stock are entitled to receive dividends, when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors of the Company out of funds legally available. Under the prompt corrective action laws, the ability of a bank holding company to pay dividends may be restricted if a subsidiary bank becomes undercapitalized.
The Company is also subject to FRB policies, which may, in certain circumstances, limit its ability to pay dividends. FRB policy is that a bank holding company should pay cash dividends only out of current earnings and only if the prospective rate of earnings retention is consistent with the holding company’s capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition. In addition, FRB guidance sets forth the supervisory expectation that bank holding companies will inform and consult with FRB staff in advance of issuing a dividend that exceeds earnings for the quarter and should inform the FRB and should eliminate, defer or significantly reduce dividends if: (i) net income available to stockholders for the past four quarters, net of dividends previously paid during that period, is not sufficient to fully fund the dividends; (ii) prospective rate of earnings retention is not consistent with the bank holding company’s capital needs and overall current and prospective financial condition; or (iii) the bank holding company will not meet, or is in danger of not meeting, its minimum regulatory capital adequacy ratios.
The FRB policies require, among other things, that a bank holding company must maintain a minimum capital base and serve as a source of strength to its subsidiary banks. The FRB by supervisory letters has advised holding companies that it is has supervisory concerns when the level of dividends is too high and would seek to prevent dividends if the dividends paid by a holding company exceeded its earnings. The FRB would most likely seek to prohibit any dividend payment that would reduce a holding company’s capital below these minimum amounts. FRB policy also provides for regulatory review prior to a holding company (i) redeeming or repurchasing regulatory capital instruments when the holding company is experiencing financial weaknesses, or (ii) redeeming or repurchasing common stock or perpetual preferred stock that would result in a net reduction as of the end of a quarter in the amount of such equity instruments outstanding compared with the beginning of the quarter in which the redemption or repurchase occurred. In addition, the FRB staff has recently begun interpreting its regulatory capital regulations to require holding companies to receive FRB approval prior to any repurchases or redemptions of its common shares.
Since the principal source of income for the Company are dividends paid to the Company by the Bank, the Company’s ability to pay dividends to its shareholders will depend on whether the Bank pays dividends to it. As a practical matter, restrictions on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends act as restrictions on the amount of funds available for the payment of dividends by the Company. As a New Jersey chartered commercial bank, the Bank is subject to the restrictions on the payment of dividends contained in the New Jersey Banking Act of 1948, as amended (the “Banking Act”). Under the Banking Act, the Bank may pay dividends only out of retained earnings, to the extent that surplus exceeds 50 percent of stated capital. Federal law may also limit the amount of dividends that may be paid by the Bank. Under the Financial Institutions Supervisory Act, the FDIC has the authority to prohibit a state-chartered bank from engaging in conduct that, in the FDIC’s opinion, constitutes
an unsafe or unsound banking practice. Under certain circumstances, the FDIC could claim that the payment of a dividend or other distribution by the Bank to the Company constitutes an unsafe or unsound practice.
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 was enacted to address, among other issues, corporate governance, auditing and accounting, executive compensation, and enhanced and timely disclosure of corporate information. We have existing policies, procedures and systems designed to comply with this act and its implementing regulations.
Other Laws and Regulations
Interest and other charges collected or contracted for by the Bank are subject to state usury laws and federal laws concerning interest rates. The Bank’s operations are also subject to federal laws (and their implementing regulations) applicable to credit transactions, such as the:
•Truth-In-Lending Act, governing disclosures of credit terms to consumer borrowers;
•Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, requiring that borrowers for mortgage loans for one- to four-family residential real estate receive various disclosures, including good faith estimates of settlement costs, lender servicing and escrow account practices, and prohibiting certain practices that increase the cost of settlement services;
•Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, requiring financial institutions to provide information to enable the public and public officials to determine whether a financial institution is fulfilling its obligation to help meet the housing needs of the community it serves;
•Equal Credit Opportunity Act, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, creed or other prohibited factors in extending credit;
•Fair Credit Reporting Act, governing the use and provision of information to credit reporting agencies;
•Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, governing the manner in which consumer debts may be collected; and
•Truth in Savings Act, prescribing disclosure and advertising requirements with respect to deposit accounts.
The operations of the Bank are also subject to the:
•Right to Financial Privacy Act, which imposes a duty to maintain confidentiality of consumer financial records and prescribes procedures for complying with administrative subpoenas of financial records;
•Electronic Funds Transfer Act and Regulation E promulgated thereunder, governing automatic deposits to and withdrawals from deposit accounts and customers’ rights and liabilities arising from the use of automated teller machines and other electronic banking services;
•Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act (also known as “Check 21”), which gives “substitute checks,” such as digital check images and copies made from that image, the same legal standing as the original paper check;
•The Bank Secrecy Act and the USA PATRIOT Act and their implementing regulations, which require the Bank to maintain a compliance program to detect and prevent money laundering, terrorist financing, and illicit crime, to maintain a customer identification program and other internal controls, conduct customer due diligence, administer training, maintain specified records, and report suspicious activity, among other things; and
•Regulations of the Office of Foreign Assets Control that enforce economic and trade sanctions programs based on United States foreign policy and national security goals.

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Item 1A.	RISK FACTORS
The material risks and uncertainties that Management believes affect the Company are described below. These risks and uncertainties are not the only ones affecting the Company. Additional risks and uncertainties that Management is not aware of or focused on or that Management currently deems immaterial may also affect the Company’s business operations. This report is qualified in its entirety by these risk factors. If any one or more of the following risks actually occur, the Company’s financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Risks Related to Economic Matters
Negative developments in the financial services industry and U.S. and global credit markets and the U.S. debt obligations may adversely impact our operations and results.
Our businesses and operations, which primarily consist of lending money, accepting deposits and investing in securities, are sensitive to general business and economic conditions in the United States. If the U.S. economy weakens, our growth and profitability from our lending, deposit and investment operations could be constrained. Uncertainty about the federal fiscal policymaking process and the medium and long-term fiscal outlook of the federal government is a concern for businesses, consumers and investors in the United States. In addition, economic conditions in foreign countries could affect the stability of global financial markets, which could hinder U.S. economic growth. Weak economic conditions or a return of recessionary conditions and/or negative developments in the domestic and international credit markets are often characterized by deflation, fluctuations in debt and equity capital markets, a lack of liquidity and/or depressed prices in the secondary market for mortgage loans, increased loan delinquencies, real estate price declines and lower home sales and commercial activity.
Our business is also significantly affected by monetary and related policies of the U.S. federal government and its agencies. Changes in any of these policies are influenced by macroeconomic conditions and other factors that are beyond our control. Adverse economic conditions and government policy responses to such conditions could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Further, a U.S. government debt default would have a material adverse impact on our business and financial performance, including a decrease in the value of Treasury bonds and other government securities held by us, which could negatively impact the Bank’s capital position and its ability to meet regulatory requirements. Other negative impacts could be volatile capital markets, an adverse impact on the U.S. economy and the U.S. dollar, as well as increased default rates among borrowers in light of increased economic uncertainty. Some of these impacts might occur even in the absence of an actual default but as a consequence of extended political negotiations around the threat of such a default and a government shutdown.
We are more sensitive to adverse changes in the local economy than our more geographically diversified competitors.
Unlike larger regional banks that operate in large geographies, much of our business is with clients located within Central and Northern New Jersey, Pennsylvania, as well as New York City. Our business loans are generally made to small to mid-sized businesses, most of whose success depends on the regional economy. These businesses generally have fewer financial resources in terms of capital or borrowing capacity than larger entities. Due to our geographic concentration, a downturn in the local economy could make it more difficult to attract deposits and could cause higher losses and delinquencies on our loans than if the loans were more geographically diversified. Adverse economic and business conditions in our market area could reduce our growth, affect our borrowers' ability to repay their loans and, consequently, adversely affect our financial condition and performance. Further, we place substantial reliance on real estate as collateral for our loan portfolio. A sharp downturn in real estate values in our market area could leave our loans under-secured, which could adversely affect our earnings.
Inflation and increase in market interest rates and potential effects from a recession can have an adverse impact on our business and on our customers.
Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. In response to a pronounced rise in inflation the Federal Reserve Board raised certain benchmark interest rates. As inflation increases and market interest rates rise the value of our investment securities, particularly those with longer maturities, would decrease further. In addition, inflation generally increases the cost of goods and services we use in our business operations, such as electricity and other utilities, which increases our noninterest expenses. Furthermore, our customers are also affected by inflation, rising interest rates, and the rising costs of goods and services used in their households and businesses, which could have a negative impact on their ability to repay their loans with us. Sustained higher interest rates by the Federal Reserve Board to tame persistent inflationary price pressures could also push down asset prices and weaken economic activity. A deterioration in economic conditions in the United States and our markets could result in an increase in loan delinquencies and non-performing assets, decreases in loan collateral values and a decrease in demand for our products and services, any of which, could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Further, continued high market interest rates may reduce our loan origination volume, particularly refinance volume, and/or reduce our interest rate spread, which could have an adverse effect on our profitability and results of operations.
Risks Related to Lending Matters
Our exposure to credit risk could adversely affect our earnings and financial condition.
There are certain risks inherent in making loans, including risks that the principal of or interest on the loan will not be repaid timely or at all or that the value of any collateral securing the loan will be insufficient to cover our outstanding exposure. These risks may be affected by the strength of the borrower’s business and local, regional and national market and economic conditions. Our risk management practices, such as monitoring the concentration of our loans within specific industries and our credit approval practices, may not adequately reduce credit risk, and our credit administration personnel, policies and procedures may not adequately adapt to changes in economic or any other conditions affecting clients and the quality of the loan portfolio. Finally, many of our loans are made to small- and medium-sized businesses that are less able to withstand competitive, economic and financial pressures than larger borrowers. A failure to effectively measure and limit the credit risk associated with our loan portfolio could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Our concentrations of loans in certain industries could have adverse effects on credit quality.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s loan portfolio included loans to: (i) lessors of office buildings of $107.0 million, or 2.0 percent of total loans; and (ii) borrowers in the retail industry of $229.4 million, or 4.2 percent of total loans. Because of these concentrations of loans in specific industries, a deterioration within these industries, especially those that have been particularly adversely impacted by long-term work-from-home arrangements on the commercial real estate sector, including retail stores, hotels and office buildings, creates greater risk exposure for our commercial real estate loan portfolio. Should the fundamentals of the commercial real estate market deteriorate, our financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.
The performance of our New York multifamily real estate loans could be adversely impacted by regulation.
In June 2019, New York enacted legislation increasing the restrictions on rent increases in a rent-regulated apartment building, including, among other provisions, (i) repealing the vacancy bonus and longevity bonus, which allowed a property owner to raise rents as much as 20 percent each time a rental unit became vacant, (ii) eliminating high rent vacancy deregulation and high-income deregulation, which allowed a rental unit to be removed from rent stabilization once it crossed a statutory high-rent threshold and became vacant, or the tenant’s income exceeded the statutory amount in the preceding two years, and (iii) eliminating an exception that allowed a property owner who offered preferential rents to tenants to raise the rent to the full legal rent upon renewal. This legislation generally limits a landlord’s ability to increase rents on rent-regulated apartments and makes it more difficult to convert rent regulated apartments to market rate apartments. As a result, the value of the collateral located in New York securing our multifamily loans or the future net operating income of such properties could potentially become impaired. At December 31, 2023, our total multifamily rent regulated exposure in New York was approximately $941 million, or 17 percent, of the total loan portfolio.
If our allowance for credit losses is not sufficient to cover actual loan losses, our earnings would decrease.
We maintain allowances for credit losses on loans and off-balance sheet credit exposures. The amount of each allowance account represents management's best estimate of current expected credit losses on these financial instruments considering available information, from internal and external sources, relevant to assessing exposure to credit loss over the contractual term of the instrument. Relevant available information includes historical credit loss experience, current economic conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. As a result, the determination of the appropriate level of allowance for credit losses inherently involves a high degree of subjectivity and requires us to make significant estimates related to current and expected future credit risks and trends, all of which may undergo material changes. Continuing deterioration in economic conditions, including the possibility of a recession, affecting borrowers and securities issuers; inflation; rising interest rates; new information regarding existing loans, credit commitments and securities holdings; and identification of additional problem loans ratings downgrades and other factors; both within and outside of our control, may require an increase in the allowances for credit losses on loans and off-balance sheet credit exposures. In addition, bank regulatory agencies periodically review our allowance for credit losses and may require an increase in credit loss expense or the recognition of further loan charge-offs, based on judgments different than those of management. Furthermore, if any charge-offs related to loans or off-balance sheet credit exposures in future periods exceed our allowances for credit losses on loans or off-balance sheet credit exposures, we will need to recognize additional credit loss expense to increase the applicable allowance. Any increase in the allowance for credit losses on loans and/or off-balance sheet credit exposures will result in a decrease in net income and, possibly, capital, and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our commercial real estate loan and commercial C&I portfolios expose us to greater risks than other mortgage loans.
Our loan portfolio includes non-owner-occupied commercial real estate loans for individuals and businesses for various purposes. The repayment of these loans typically depends upon income generated, or expected to be generated, by the property securing the loan in amounts sufficient to cover operating expenses and debt service. This may be adversely affected by changes in the economy or local market conditions. These loans expose us to greater credit risk than loans secured by residential real estate because the collateral securing these loans typically cannot be liquidated as easily as residential real estate. If we foreclose on these loans, our holding period for the collateral typically is longer than for a single or multifamily residential property because there are fewer potential purchasers of the collateral. Additionally, non-owner-occupied commercial real estate loans generally involve relatively large balances to single borrowers or related groups of borrowers. Accordingly, charge-offs on non-owner-occupied commercial real estate loans may be larger on a per loan basis than those incurred with our residential or consumer loan portfolios. Unexpected deterioration in the credit quality of our commercial real estate loan portfolio may require us to increase our provision for credit losses, which would reduce our profitability and could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The source of repayment of C&I loans is typically the cash flows of the borrowers’ businesses. These loans may involve greater risk because the availability of funds to repay each loan depends substantially on the success of the business itself. The collateral securing the loans and leases often depreciates over time, is difficult to appraise and liquidate and fluctuates in value based on the success of the business. In addition, many commercial business loans have a variable rate which is indexed off of a floating rate such as the U.S. Prime Rate or the Secured Overnight Financing Rate. If interest rates rise, the borrower's debt service requirement may increase, negatively impacting the borrower's ability to service their debt.
The level of the commercial real estate loan portfolio may subject the Bank to additional regulatory scrutiny.
The federal bank regulatory agencies have promulgated joint guidance on sound risk management practices for financial institutions with concentrations in commercial real estate lending. Under the guidance, a financial institution that, like the Bank, is actively involved in commercial real estate lending should perform a risk assessment to identify concentrations. A financial institution may be subject to this guidance if, among other factors, (i) total reported loans for construction, land acquisition and development and other land represent 100 percent or more of total capital, or (ii) total reported loans secured by multifamily and non-farm residential properties, loans for construction, land acquisition and development and other land, and loans otherwise sensitive to the general commercial real estate market, including loans to commercial real estate related entities, represent 300 percent or more of total capital. Based on these factors, the Bank has a concentration in commercial real estate lending, as such loans represented 375 percent of total bank capital as of December 31, 2023. The guidance focuses on exposure to commercial real estate loans that are dependent on the cash flow from the real estate held as collateral and that are likely to be at greater risk to conditions in the commercial real estate market (as opposed to real estate collateral held as a secondary source of repayment or in an abundance of caution). The guidance assists banks in developing risk management practices and determining capital levels commensurate with the level and nature of real estate concentrations. The guidance states that management should employ heightened risk management practices including board and management oversight and strategic planning, development of underwriting standards, risk assessment and monitoring through market analysis and stress testing. While it is management’s belief that policies and procedures with respect to the Bank’s commercial real estate loan portfolio have been implemented consistent with this guidance, bank regulators could require that additional policies and procedures be implemented consistent with their interpretation of the guidance that may result in additional costs or that may result in the curtailment of commercial real estate lending that would adversely affect the Bank’s loan originations and profitability.
We are subject to environmental liability risk associated with our lending activities.
In the course of our business, we may purchase real estate or foreclose on and take title to real estate. As a result, we could be subject to environmental liabilities with respect to these properties. We may be held liable to a governmental entity or to third parties for property damage, personal injury, investigation or clean-up costs incurred by these parties in connection with environmental contamination. The costs associated with investigation or remediation activities could be substantial. In addition, if we are the owner or former owner of a contaminated site, we may be subject to common law claims by third parties based on damages and costs resulting from environmental contamination emanating from the property. Any significant environmental liabilities could cause a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Risks Related to Interest Rates
Changes in interest rates may adversely affect our earnings and financial condition.
Our net income depends primarily upon our net interest income. Net interest income is the difference between interest income earned on loans, investments and other interest-earning assets and the interest expense incurred on deposits and borrowed funds.
Different types of assets and liabilities may react differently, and at different times, to changes in market interest rates. We expect that we will periodically experience “gaps” in the interest rate sensitivities of our assets and liabilities. That means either our interest-bearing liabilities will be more sensitive to changes in market interest rates than our interest-earning assets, or vice versa. When interest-bearing liabilities mature or reprice more quickly than interest-earning assets, an increase in market rates of interest could reduce our net interest income. Likewise, when interest-earning assets mature or reprice more quickly than interest-bearing liabilities, falling interest rates could reduce our net interest income. We are unable to predict changes in market interest rates, which are affected by many factors beyond our control, including inflation, recession, unemployment, money supply, governmental policy, domestic and international events and changes in the United States and other financial markets.
In addition, changes in interest rates can affect the average life of loans and investment securities. A reduction in interest rates causes increased prepayments of loans and mortgage-backed securities as borrowers refinance their debt to reduce their borrowing costs. This creates reinvestment risk, which is the risk that the Bank may not be able to reinvest the funds from faster prepayments at rates that are comparable to the rates earned on the prepaid loans or securities. Conversely, an increase in interest rates generally reduces prepayments. Additionally, increases in interest rates may decrease loan demand and/or make it more difficult for borrowers to repay adjustable-rate loans.
Changes in interest rates may also affect the current estimated fair value of the securities portfolio. Generally, the value of securities moves inversely with changes in interest rates. Unrealized net losses on securities available-for-sale are reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. To the extent interest rates increase and the value of the available-for-sale portfolio decreases, stockholders’ equity will be adversely affected.
Changes in the estimated fair value of debt securities may reduce stockholders’ equity and net income.
At December 31, 2023, the Company maintained a debt securities portfolio of $658.4 million, of which $550.6 million was classified as available-for-sale. The estimated fair value of the available-for-sale debt securities portfolio may change depending on the credit quality of the underlying issuer, market liquidity, changes in interest rates and other factors. Stockholders’ equity increases or decreases by the amount of the change in the unrealized gain or loss (difference between the estimated fair value and the amortized cost) of the available-for-sale debt securities portfolio, net of the related tax expense or benefit, under the category of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). A decrease can occur even though the securities are not sold.
Other Risks Related to Our Business
We are exposed to the risks of public health issues, natural disasters, severe weather, acts of war or terrorism, government shutdowns, geopolitical events and other potential external events.
We are exposed to the risks of public health issues, natural disasters, pandemics, severe weather, acts of war or terrorism, and other potential external events, any of which could have a significant impact on our ability to conduct business. In addition, such events could: impair the ability of borrowers to qualify for loans and/or repay their obligations, impair the value of collateral securing loans, cause depositors to withdraw funds, cause wealth management clients to withdraw assets under management, and/or cause us to incur additional expenses. Further, any of these events could affect the financial markets in general, causing a diminishment in the market value of assets under management for our wealth management clients and/or cause a yield curve not advantageous to the Company or the banking industry in general. Any of the above could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and/or results of operations. Additionally, financial markets may be adversely affected by the current or anticipated impact of military conflict, including escalating military tension between Russia and Ukraine, terrorism or other geopolitical events.
The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect us.
Financial services institutions are interconnected as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty, or other relationships. We have exposure to many different industries and counterparties, and we routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including brokers and dealers, investment banks, commercial banks, and other institutional clients. Some of these transactions expose us to credit risk if there is a default by our client or counterparty. Additionally, our credit risk may be impaired when collateral held by us cannot be realized or is liquidated at prices insufficient to recover the full amount of the credit or derivative exposure due us; such losses could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
In early 2023, the failures of Silicon Valley Bank, First Republic Bank, and Signature Bank resulted in decreased confidence in banks among depositors, other counterparties and investors. Such events and developments could materially and adversely affect our business or financial condition, including through declines in deposits, increased costs of funds, potential liquidity pressures, increased regulation, and declines and volatility in the price of our common stock.
Risks Relating to Regulatory Matters
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act has and may continue to adversely affect our business activities, financial condition, and profitability by increasing our regulatory compliance burden and associated costs, placing restrictions on certain products and services, and limiting our future capital raising strategies.
The Dodd-Frank Act has and may continue to increase our regulatory compliance burden. Among the Dodd-Frank Act’s significant regulatory changes, it created the CFPB, which is empowered to promulgate new consumer protection regulations and revise existing regulations in many areas of consumer protection. Moreover, the Dodd-Frank Act permits states to adopt stricter consumer protection laws and state attorney generals may enforce consumer protection rules issued by the CFPB. These changes have increased, and may continue to increase, our regulatory compliance burden and costs and may restrict the financial products and services we offer to our clients. The Dodd-Frank Act also increased regulation of derivatives and hedging transactions, which could limit our ability to enter into, or increase the costs associated with, interest rate and other hedging transactions.
Government regulation significantly affects our business.
The banking industry is extensively regulated. Banking regulations are intended primarily to protect depositors, and the FDIC deposit insurance fund, not our shareholders. We are subject to regulation and supervision by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance and the Federal Reserve Bank. Such regulation and supervision governs the activities in which an institution and its holding company may engage. The bank regulatory agencies possess broad authority to prevent or remedy unsafe or unsound practices or violations of law. Regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the imposition of restrictions on operations, the classification of assets and determination of the level of the allowance for credit losses. Regulatory requirements affect our lending practices, capital structure, investment practices, dividend policy and growth. In addition, changes in laws, regulations and regulatory practices affecting the banking industry may limit the manner in which we conduct our business. Such changes may adversely affect us, including our ability to offer new products and services, obtain financing, attract deposits, make loans and achieve satisfactory spreads and may impose additional costs on us.
The Bank is also subject to a number of federal laws, which, among other things, require it to lend to various sectors of the economy and population, and establish and maintain comprehensive programs relating to anti-money laundering and customer identification. The Bank's compliance with these laws will be considered by the federal banking regulators when reviewing bank merger and bank holding company acquisitions or commencing new activities or making new investments in reliance on the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. As a public company, we are also subject to the corporate governance standards set forth in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as well as any rules or regulations promulgated by the SEC and the NASDAQ Stock Market.
Monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board could adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.
The Company’s earnings and growth are affected by the policies of the Federal Reserve Board. An important function of the Federal Reserve Board is to regulate the money supply and credit conditions. Among the instruments used by the Federal Reserve Board to implement these objectives are open market purchases and sales of U.S. government securities, adjustments
of the discount rate and changes in banks’ reserve requirements against certain transaction account deposits. These instruments are used in varying combinations to influence overall economic growth and the distribution of credit, bank loans, investments and deposits. Their use also affects interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits. The monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board have a significant effect on the overall economy and the operating results of financial institutions.
Risks Related to Capital
We may need to raise additional capital in the future, which may not be available when needed or available on acceptable terms.
We are required by federal regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support its operations. We may at some point need to raise additional capital to support continued growth. Our ability to raise additional capital, if needed, will depend on conditions in the capital markets at that time, which are outside our control, and on its financial performance. Accordingly, we cannot be assured of its ability to raise additional capital if needed or on terms acceptable to us. If we cannot raise additional capital when needed, the ability to further expand its operations could be materially impaired. Further, if we raise capital through the issuance of additional shares of our common stock, it would dilute the ownership interests of existing shareholders and may dilute the per share book value of our common stock. New investors may also have rights, preferences and privileges senior to our current shareholders, which may adversely impact our current shareholders.
We are subject to certain capital requirements, which may adversely impact our return on equity, require us to raise additional capital, or constrain us from paying dividends or repurchasing shares.
A financial institution and its holding company, such as the Bank and the Company, are subject to limitations on paying dividends, engaging in share repurchases, and paying discretionary bonuses if their capital level falls below the required amounts. These limitations establish a maximum percentage of eligible retained income that can be utilized for such actions.
The application of more stringent capital requirements could, among other things, result in lower returns on equity, require the raising of additional capital, and result in regulatory actions if we were to be unable to comply with such requirements. Furthermore, the imposition of liquidity requirements in connection with the implementation of Basel III could result in our having to lengthen the term of our funding, restructure our business models, and/or increase our holdings of liquid assets. See Part I, Item1, “Business - Capital Requirements.”
Our ability to pay dividends to our common shareholders is limited by law.
Since the principal source of income for the Company is dividends paid to the Company by the Bank, the Company’s ability to pay dividends to its shareholders will depend on whether the Bank pays dividends to it. As a practical matter, restrictions on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends act as restrictions on the amount of funds available for the payment of dividends by the Company. As a New Jersey-chartered commercial bank, the Bank is subject to the restrictions on the payment of dividends contained in the New Jersey Banking Act of 1948, as amended. Under the Banking Act, the Bank may pay dividends only out of retained earnings, and out of surplus to the extent that surplus exceeds 50 percent of stated capital. The Company is also subject to Federal Reserve Board policies, which may, in certain circumstances, limit its ability to pay dividends. The Federal Reserve Board policies require, among other things, that a bank holding company maintain a minimum capital base and the Federal Reserve Board in supervisory guidance has cautioned bank holding companies about paying out too much of their earnings in dividends and has stated that banks should not pay out more in dividends than they earn. The Federal Reserve Board would most likely seek to prohibit any dividend payment that would reduce a holding company's capital below these minimum amounts.
Risks Related to Liquidity
Limits on our ability to use brokered deposits as part of our funding strategy may adversely affect our ability to grow.
A “brokered deposit” is any deposit that is obtained from or through the mediation or assistance of a deposit broker, which includes larger correspondent banks and securities brokerage firms. These deposit brokers attract deposits from individuals and companies throughout the country and internationally whose deposit decisions are based almost exclusively on obtaining the highest interest rates. At December 31, 2023, brokered deposits represented approximately 2.5 percent of our total deposits and equaled $130.5 million, comprised of the following: interest-bearing demand-brokered of $10.0 million, and brokered certificates of deposits of $120.5 million. To continue to maintain our level of brokered deposits, we may be forced to pay higher interest rates than contemplated by our asset-liability pricing strategy. In addition, banks that become less than “well capitalized” under applicable regulatory capital requirements may be restricted in their ability to accept or be prohibited from accepting brokered deposits. If this funding source becomes more difficult or expensive to access, we will have to seek alternative funding sources in order to continue to fund our growth. This may include increasing our reliance on Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings, attempting to attract non-brokered deposits, reducing our available for sale securities portfolio or selling loans. There can be no assurance that brokered deposits will be available, or if available, sufficient to support our continued growth.
We may lose lower-cost funding sources, which may affect our profitability.
Checking, savings, and money market deposit account balances and other forms of client deposits can decrease when clients perceive alternative investments, such as the stock market, as providing a better risk/return tradeoff. If clients move money out of bank deposits and into other investments, we would lose a relatively low-cost source of funds and have to replace them with higher cost funds, thus increasing our funding costs and reducing our net interest income and net income. The Bank does have certain deposits with high dollar balances which are subject to volatility. Customers with large average deposits may move these deposits for operational needs, investment opportunities or other reasons, which could require the Bank to pay higher interest rates to retain these deposits or use higher rate borrowings as an alternative funding source.
A lack of liquidity could adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.
Liquidity is essential to the Company’s business. The Company relies on its ability to generate deposits and effectively manage the repayment and maturity schedules of loans to ensure that there is adequate liquidity to fund its operations. An inability to raise funds through deposits, borrowings, the sale and maturities of loans and other sources could have a substantial negative effect on liquidity. The Company’s most important source of funds is deposits. Deposit balances can decrease when customers perceive alternative investments as providing a better risk/return tradeoff, which are strongly influenced by such external factors as the direction of interest rates, local and national economic conditions and the availability and attractiveness of alternative investments. Further, the demand for deposits may be reduced due to a variety of factors such as demographic patterns, changes in customer preferences, reductions in consumers’ disposable income, the monetary policy of the FRB or regulatory actions that decrease customer access to particular products. If customers move money out of bank deposits and into other investments such as money market funds, the Company would lose a relatively low-cost source of funds, which would increase its funding costs and reduce net interest income. Any changes made to the rates offered on deposits to remain competitive with other financial institutions may also adversely affect profitability and liquidity.
Other primary sources of funds consist of cash flows from operations, maturities and sales of investment securities and borrowings from the FHLB of New York. The Company also has an available line of credit with the FRB discount window. The Company also may borrow funds from third-party lenders, such as other financial institutions. The Company’s access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance or capitalize its activities, or on terms that are acceptable, could be impaired by factors that affect the Company directly or the financial services industry or economy in general, such as disruptions in the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry, a decrease in the level of the Company’s business activity as a result of a downturn in markets or by one or more adverse regulatory actions against the Company.
Any decline in available funding could adversely impact the Company’s ability to originate loans, invest in securities, meet expenses, or to fulfill obligations such as repaying borrowings or meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could have a material adverse impact on its liquidity, business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to Competition
Competition from other financial institutions in originating loans and attracting deposits may adversely affect our profitability.
We face substantial competition in originating loans from other banks, savings institutions, credit unions, mortgage banking companies and other lenders. Many of our competitors enjoy advantages, including greater financial resources and higher lending limits, a wider geographic presence, and more accessible branch office locations.
In attracting deposits, we face substantial competition from other insured depository institutions such as banks, savings institutions and credit unions, as well as institutions offering uninsured investment alternatives, including money market funds. Many of our competitors enjoy advantages, including greater financial resources, more aggressive marketing campaigns, better brand recognition and more branch locations. These competitors may offer higher interest rates than we do, which could decrease the deposits that we attract or require us to increase our rates to retain existing deposits or attract new deposits.
We also compete with non-bank providers of financial services, such as brokerage firms, consumer finance companies, insurance companies and governmental organizations, which may offer more favorable terms. Some of our non-bank competitors are not subject to the same extensive regulations that govern our operations. As a result, such non-bank competitors may have advantages over us in providing certain products and services. This competition may reduce or limit our margins on banking services, reduce our market share and adversely affect our earnings and financial condition.
Risks Related to Operational Matters
Cyber-attacks and information security breaches could compromise our information or result in the data of our customers being improperly divulged, which could expose us to liability and losses.
Many financial institutions and companies engaged in data processing have reported significant breaches in the security of their websites or other systems, some of which have involved sophisticated and targeted attacks intended to obtain unauthorized access to confidential information, destroy data, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems, often through the introduction of computer viruses or malware, cyber-attacks and other means. We are subject to such cyber-attacks or other information security breaches, which could result in losses. Additionally, our risk exposure to security matters may remain elevated or increase in the future due to, among other things, the increasing size and prominence of the Company in the financial services industry, our expansion of Internet and mobile banking tools and products based on customer needs and an increased level of employees working remotely. As cyber threats continue to evolve, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify or enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities. Disruptions or failures in the physical infrastructure or operating systems that support our businesses, customers or third parties, or cyber-attacks or security breaches of the networks, systems or devices that our customers or third parties use to access our products and services could result in customer attrition, financial losses, the inability of our customers or vendors to transact business with us, violations of applicable privacy and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties or intervention, reputational damage, reimbursement or other costs, and/or additional compliance costs, any of which could materially adversely affect our results of operations or financial condition.
Our information technology systems and the systems of third parties upon which we rely may experience a failure, interruption or breach in security that could negatively affect our operations and reputation.
We rely heavily on information technology systems to conduct our business, including the systems of third-party service providers. Any failure, interruption, or breach in security or operational integrity of these systems could result in failures or disruptions in our customer relationship management and general ledger, deposit, loan, and other systems. While we have policies and procedures designed to prevent or limit the impact of any failure, interruption, or breach in our security systems (including privacy and cyber-attacks), there can be no assurance that such events will not occur or if they do occur, that they will be adequately addressed. Information security and cyber-security risks have increased significantly in recent years because of new technologies, the use of the Internet and other electronic delivery channels (including mobile devices) to conduct financial transactions. Accordingly, we may be required to expend additional resources to continue to enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities or exposures. The occurrence of any system failures, interruptions, or breaches in security could expose us to reputation risk, litigation, regulatory scrutiny and possible financial liability that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Our failure to successfully keep pace with technological changes could have a material adverse impact on our business and, in turn, our financial condition and results of operations.
The financial services industry is continually undergoing rapid technological change with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. The effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to better serve clients and to reduce costs. Our future success depends, in part, upon our ability to address the needs of our clients by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy client demands, as well as to create additional efficiencies in our operations. Many of our competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. We may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing these products and services to our clients. Failure to successfully keep pace with technological change affecting the financial services industry could have a material adverse impact on our business and, in turn, our financial condition and results of operations.
Our board of directors relies on management and outside consultants in overseeing cybersecurity risk management.
The Company has a standing Information Technology Committee. The Chief Information Officer is the primary management liaison to the committee. The committee meets quarterly, or more frequently if needed, and reports to the board of directors after each meeting through committee minutes. The Company also engages outside consultants to support its cybersecurity efforts. Our directors do not have significant experience in cybersecurity risk management in other business entities comparable to the Company and rely on the Chief Information Officer and other consultants for cybersecurity guidance.
We are subject to operational risk.
We face the risk that the design of our controls and procedures, including those to mitigate the risk of fraud by employees or outsiders, may prove to be inadequate or are circumvented, thereby causing delays in the detection of errors or inaccuracies in data and information. Management regularly reviews and updates our internal controls, disclosure controls and procedures, and corporate governance policies and procedures. Any system of controls, however well designed and operated, is based in part on certain assumptions and can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurances that the objectives of the system are met. Any failure or circumvention of our controls and procedures or failure to comply with regulations related to controls and procedures could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are dependent on key personnel and the loss of one or more of those key personnel may materially and adversely affect our prospects.
Our performance is largely dependent on the talents and efforts of highly skilled individuals. There is intense competition in the financial services industry for qualified employees. In addition, we face increasing competition with businesses outside the financial services industry for the most highly skilled individuals. Our business operations could be adversely affected if we were unable to attract new employees and retain and motivate our existing employees.
Risks Related to Our Wealth Management Business
Revenues and profitability from our wealth management business may be adversely affected by any reduction in assets under management, which could reduce fees earned.
The wealth management business derives the majority of its revenue from non-interest income, which consists of trust, investment advisory and other servicing fees. Substantial revenues are generated from investment management contracts with clients. Under these contracts, the investment advisory fees paid to us are typically based on the market value of assets under management. Assets under management may decline for various reasons including declines in the market value of the assets, which could be caused by price declines in the securities markets. Assets under management may also decrease due to redemptions and other withdrawals by clients or termination of contracts. This could be in response to adverse market conditions or in pursuit of other investment opportunities. If the assets under management we supervise decline and there is a related decrease in fees, it will negatively affect our results of operations.
We may not be able to attract and retain wealth management clients.
Due to strong competition, our wealth management business may not be able to attract and retain clients. Competition is strong because there are numerous well-established and successful investment management and wealth advisory firms including commercial banks and trust companies, investment advisory firms, mutual fund companies, stock brokerage firms, and other financial companies. Many of our competitors have greater resources than we have. Our ability to successfully attract and retain wealth management clients is dependent upon our ability to compete with competitors’ investment products,
level of investment performance, client services and marketing and distribution capabilities. If we are not successful, our results of operations and financial condition may be negatively impacted.
The wealth management industry is subject to extensive regulation, supervision and examination by regulators, and any enforcement action or adverse changes in the laws or regulations governing our business could decrease our revenues and profitability.
The wealth management business is subject to regulation by a number of regulatory agencies that are charged with safeguarding the integrity of the securities and other financial markets and with protecting the interests of customers participating in those markets. In the event of non-compliance with regulation, governmental regulators, including the SEC and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, may institute administrative or judicial proceedings that may result in censure, fines, civil penalties, the issuance of cease-and-desist orders or the deregistration or suspension of the non-compliant broker-dealer or investment adviser or other adverse consequences. The imposition of any such penalties or orders could have a material adverse effect on the wealth management segment's operating results and financial condition. We may be adversely affected as a result of new or revised legislation or regulations. Regulatory changes have imposed and may continue to impose additional costs, which could adversely impact our profitability.

---

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Item 1B.	UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.

---

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Item 2.	PROPERTIES
The Company owns eight branches and leases eight branches. The Company leases an administrative and operations office building in Bedminster, New Jersey, private banking offices in Princeton and Teaneck, New Jersey and wealth offices in Greenville, Delaware, Morristown, New Providence, Red Bank and Summit, New Jersey and Bonita Springs, Florida. The Company has signed a lease for future market expansion in New York City. We consider our present facilities to be sufficient for our current operations.

---

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Item 3.	LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
In the normal course of business, lawsuits and claims may be brought against the Company and its subsidiaries. Currently, there are no pending or threatened litigation or proceedings against the Company or its subsidiaries, which assert claims that if adversely decided, we believe would have a material adverse effect on the Company.

---

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
Item 4.	MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
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 STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
The common stock of the Company is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “PGC”. On March 1, 2024, there were approximately 1,240 registered shareholders of record.
Stock Performance Graph
The following graph compares the cumulative total return on a hypothetical $100 investment made on December 31, 2018 (Five Year Total Return Performance), in (a) the Company’s common stock; (b) the KBW NASDAQ Regional Banking Index (top 50 U.S. banks); and (c) the Proxy Peer Group. The graph is calculated assuming that all dividends are reinvested during the relevant periods.
The KBW NASDAQ Regional Banking Index is comprised of the largest money center banks in the U.S. (i.e. those included in the KBW NASDAQ Bank Index), but also includes smaller regional banks. The Peer Group is comprised of the bank peer group included in the Company’s 2024 Proxy that the Company utilized for monitoring its executive compensation. (Note that banks that have since been acquired or did not file their required reports on a timely basis have been excluded.)
The Peer Group consists of: Arrow Financial Corporation, Cambridge Bancorp, Customers Bancorp, Inc., Dime Community Bancshares, Inc., Eagle Bancorp, Inc., Enterprise Bancorp, Inc., Lakeland Bancorp, Inc., OceanFirst Financial Corp., Orrstown Financial Services, Inc., Peoples Financial Services Corp., Provident Financial Services, Inc., Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc., The First of Long Island Corporation, Tompkins Financial Corporation, Univest Financial Corporation, and Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc.
The Company believes each of these indexes/groups are more closely aligned with the operations of the Company.
Period Ended
Index
12/31/18
12/31/19
12/31/20
12/31/21
12/31/22
12/31/23
Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation
$
100.00
$
123.59
$
91.97
$
143.95
$
152.22
$
122.82
KBW NASDAQ Regional Banking Index
100.00
123.81
113.03
154.45
143.75
143.17
Peer Group
100.00
117.14
95.47
144.45
120.71
111.93
Stock Repurchases
The following table sets forth information for the quarter ended December 31, 2023 with respect to common shares repurchased and common shares withheld to satisfy withholding obligations upon the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock awards/units.
Total
Number of Shares
Purchased
As Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs
Total
Number of Shares
Withheld (1)
Average Price Paid
Per Share
Maximum Number of
Shares That May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans
Or Programs (2)
October 1, 2023 -
October 31, 2023
36,886
-
$
22.76
529,114
November 1, 2023 -
November 30, 2023
48,916
-
24.28
480,198
December 1, 2023 -
December 31, 2023
2,525
25.68
477,673
Total
88,327
$
23.86
(1)Represents shares withheld to satisfy tax withholding obligations upon the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock awards. These shares are repurchased pursuant to the terms of the applicable plan and not under the Company's stock repurchase plan.
(2)On January 26, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a plan to repurchase up to 890,000 shares, which was approximately 5 percent of the outstanding shares as of that date, through December 31, 2024. The timing and amount of shares repurchased will depend on certain factors, including but not limited to, market conditions and prices, the Company’s liquidity and capital requirements and alternative uses of capital.
Sales of Unregistered Securities
On September 1, 2019, the Company acquired Point View, a registered investment adviser (“RIA”) in Summit, New Jersey, which had approximately $325 million of assets under management at closing for cash and stock due on closing, and contingent post-closing payments of common stock based upon Point View’s post-acquisition performance. The contingent payments, to the extent earned, are payable on or about September 15 of 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The Company issued 14,220 shares of Company common stock to the Point View shareholder pursuant to an agreement on each of September 17, 2021, and September 19, 2022. On August 8, 2023, the Company issued 19,197 shares of Company common stock to the Point View shareholder pursuant to the agreement. These Company shares were issued without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) in reliance on Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act.

---

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Item 6.	[RESERVED]

---

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Item 7.	MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are not historical facts and include expressions about Management’s confidence and strategies and Management’s expectations about new and existing programs and products, investments, relationships, opportunities and market conditions. These statements may be identified by such forward-looking terminology as “expect,” “look,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “may,”
or similar statements or variations of such terms. Actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:
•our ability to successfully grow our business and implement our strategic plan, including our ability to generate revenues to offset the increased personnel and other costs related to the strategic plan;
•the impact of anticipated higher operating expenses in 2024 and beyond;
•our ability to successfully integrate wealth management firm acquisitions;
•our ability to successfully integrate our expanded employee base;
•an unexpected decline in the economy, in particular in our New Jersey and New York market areas, including potential recessionary conditions;
•declines in our net interest margin caused by the interest rate environment and/or our highly competitive market;
•declines in the value in our investment portfolio;
•higher than expected increases in our allowance for credit losses;
•higher than expected increases in credit losses or in the level of delinquent, nonperforming, classified and criticized loans;
•inflation and changes in interest rates, which may adversely impact our margins and yields, reduce the fair value of our financial instruments, reduce our loan originations and lead to higher operating costs;
•decline in real estate values within our market areas;
•legislative and regulatory actions that may result in increased compliance costs;
•a potential government shutdown;
•successful cyberattacks against our IT infrastructure and that of our IT and third-party providers;
•the current or anticipated impact of military conflict, terrorism or other geopolitical events or natural disasters;
•our inability to successfully generate new business in new geographic markets, including our expansion into New York City;
•a reduction in our lower-cost funding sources;
•changes in liquidity, including the size and composition of our deposit portfolio and the percentage of uninsured deposits in the portfolio;
•our inability to adapt to technological changes;
•claims and litigation pertaining to fiduciary responsibility, environmental laws and other matters;
•our inability to retain key employees;
•demand for loans and deposits in our market areas;
•adverse changes in securities markets;
•changes in governmental regulation, including, but not limited to, any increase in FDIC insurance premiums and changes in the monetary policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System;
•impact from the pandemic on our business, operations, customers, allowance for credit losses and capital levels;
•changes in accounting policies and practices; and/or
•other unexpected material adverse changes in our operations or earnings.
Except as may be required by applicable law or regulation, the Company undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the Company’s expectations. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, the Company cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES: Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is based upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Note 1 to the Company’s Audited Consolidated Financial Statements contains a summary of the Company’s significant accounting policies.
Management believes that the Company’s policy with respect to the methodology for the determination of the allowance for credit losses involves a higher degree of complexity and requires Management to make difficult and subjective judgments, which often require assumptions or estimates about highly uncertain matters. Changes in these judgments, assumptions or estimates could materially impact results of operations. This critical policy and its application are periodically reviewed with the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors.
On January 1, 2022, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13 (Topic 326), which replaced the incurred loss methodology with CECL for financial instruments measured at amortized cost and other commitments to extend credit. The allowance for credit losses is a valuation allowance Management’s estimate of expected credit losses in the loan portfolio. The process to determine expected credit losses utilizes analytic tools and Management judgment and is reviewed on a quarterly basis. When Management is reasonably certain that a loan balance is not fully collectable, an analysis is completed whereby a specific reserve may be established or a full or partial charge off is recorded against the allowance. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. Management estimates the allowance balance via a quantitative analysis which considers available information from internal and external sources related to past loan loss and prepayment experience and current conditions, as well as the incorporation of reasonable and supportable forecasts. Management evaluates a variety of factors including available published economic information in arriving at its forecasts. Expected credit losses are estimated over the contractual term of the loans, adjusted for expected prepayments when appropriate. Also included in the allowance for credit losses are qualitative reserves that are expected, but, in the Management’s assessment, may not be adequately represented in the quantitative analysis or the forecasts described above. Factors may include, among others, changes in lending policies and procedures, size and composition of the portfolio, experience and depth of Management and the effect of external factors such as competition, legal and regulatory requirements. The allowance is available for any loan that, in Management’s judgment, should be charged off.
Although Management uses the best information available, the level of the allowance for credit losses remains an estimate, which is subject to significant judgment and short-term change. Various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Company’s allowance for credit losses. Such agencies may require the Company to make additional provisions for credit losses based upon information available to them at the time of their examination. Furthermore, the majority of the Company’s loans are secured by real estate in New Jersey and, to a lesser extent, the boroughs of New York City. Accordingly, the collectability of a substantial portion of the carrying value of the Company’s loan portfolio is susceptible to changes in local market conditions and any adverse economic conditions. Future adjustments to the provision for credit losses and allowance for credit losses may be necessary due to economic, operating, regulatory and other conditions beyond the Company’s control.
The Company accounts for its debt securities in accordance with ASC 320, “Investments - Debt Securities” and its equity security in accordance with ASC 321, “Investments - Equity Securities”. All securities classified as available for sale are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax. Securities classified as held to maturity are carried at amortized cost. The Company’s investment in a CRA investment fund is classified as an equity security. In accordance with ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments” unrealized holding gains and losses for equity securities are marked to market through the income statement.
OVERVIEW: The following discussion and analysis is intended to provide information about the financial condition and results of operations of the Company and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the related notes and supplemental financial information appearing elsewhere in this report.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded net income of $48.9 million, and diluted earnings per share of $2.71, compared to $74.2 million and $4.00, respectively, for 2022, reflecting decreases of $25.4 million, or 34 percent, and $1.29 per share, or 32 percent, respectively. During 2023, the Company continued to focus on executing its Strategic Plan, which included ongoing investment in our private banking model. During 2023, the Company also made a strategic decision to expand into New York City by hiring a team of experienced professionals to gain entry into this market. The Strategic Plan calls for expansion of the Company’s wealth management business, organically and through acquisitions, and also expansion of the Company’s commercial and industrial (“C&I”) lending platform, through the use of private bankers, who lead with deposit gathering and wealth management discussions.
The following are selected highlights from 2023:
•At December 31, 2023, the market value of assets under management and/or administration, through the Peapack Private Wealth Management Team, was $10.9 billion, reflecting an increase of 10 percent from $9.9 billion at December 31, 2022.
•Wealth Management fee income was $55.7 million in 2023, which comprised 24 percent of total revenue for the year.
•Total loans increased by $144 million, or 3 percent, to 5.4 billion at December 31, 2023 compared to $5.3 billion at December 31, 2022.
•At December 31, 2023, total C&I loans (including equipment finance loans) comprised 42 percent of the total loan portfolio.
•Noninterest-bearing demand deposits comprised 18 percent of total deposits as of December 31, 2023.
•Core deposits (which includes noninterest-bearing demand and interest-bearing demand, savings and money market accounts) totaled 89 percent of total deposits at December 31, 2023.
•Book value per share increased 10 percent to $32.90 at December 31, 2023 from $29.92 at December 31, 2022.
•The Company and the Bank’s capital ratios at December 31, 2023 remain well above regulatory well capitalized standards.
EARNINGS SUMMARY: The following table presents certain key aspects of our performance for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
At or for the Years Ended December 31,
Change
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
2023 vs
2022 vs
Results of Operations:
Interest income
$
304,010
$
211,875
$
160,067
$
92,135
$
51,808
Interest expense
147,921
35,795
22,006
112,126
13,789
Net interest income
156,089
176,080
138,061
(19,991
)
38,019
Provision for loan losses
14,091
6,353
6,475
7,738
(122
)
Net interest income after provision for
loan losses
141,998
169,727
131,586
(27,729
)
38,141
Wealth management fee income
55,747
54,651
52,987
1,096
1,664
Other income
17,831
11,766
19,256
6,065
(7,490
)
Total operating expense
148,295
133,800
126,167
14,495
7,633
Income before income tax expense
67,281
102,344
77,662
(35,063
)
24,682
Income tax expense
18,427
28,098
21,040
(9,671
)
7,058
Net income
$
48,854
$
74,246
$
56,622
$
(25,392
)
$
17,624
Per Share Data:
Basic earnings per common share
$
2.74
$
4.09
$
3.01
$
(1.35
)
$
1.08
Diluted earnings per common share
2.71
4.00
2.93
(1.29
)
1.07
Cash dividends declared
0.20
0.20
0.20
-
-
Book value end-of-period
32.90
29.92
29.70
2.98
0.22
Average common shares outstanding
17,849,558
18,161,605
18,788,679
(312,047
)
(627,074
)
Common stock equivalents (dilutive)
199,494
406,493
503,923
(206,999
)
(97,430
)
Diluted average common shares outstanding
18,049,052
18,568,098
19,292,602
(519,046
)
(724,504
)
Average equity to average assets
8.70
%
8.56
%
8.93
%
0.14
%
(0.37
)%
Return on average assets
0.76
1.20
0.94
(0.44
)
0.26
Return on average equity
8.77
14.02
10.56
(5.25
)
3.46
Dividend payout ratio
7.28
4.91
6.67
2.37
(1.76
)
Net interest margin
2.48
2.91
2.38
(0.43
)
0.53
Noninterest expenses to average assets
2.32
2.16
2.10
0.16
0.06
Noninterest income to average assets
1.15
1.07
1.20
0.08
(0.13
)
Balance sheet data (at period end):
Total assets
$
6,476,857
$
6,353,593
$
6,077,993
$
123,264
$
275,600
Securities held to maturity
107,755
102,291
108,680
5,464
(6,389
)
Securities available to sale
550,617
554,648
796,753
(4,031
)
(242,105
)
CRA equity security, at fair value
13,166
12,985
14,685
(1,700
)
FHLB and FRB stock, at cost
31,044
30,672
12,950
17,722
Total loans
5,429,325
5,285,246
4,806,721
144,079
478,525
Allowance for loan losses
65,888
60,829
61,697
5,059
(868
)
Total deposits
5,274,114
5,205,164
5,266,149
68,950
(60,985
)
Total shareholders’ equity
583,681
532,980
546,388
50,701
(13,408
)
Cash dividends:
Common
3,558
3,645
3,775
(87
)
(130
)
Assets under management and/or administration
at Wealth Management Division (market value)
$ 10.9 billion
$ 9.9 billion
$ 11.1 billion
$ 1.0 billion
$ (1.2) billion
At or for the Years Ended December 31,
Change
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
2023 vs
2022 vs
Asset quality ratios (at period end):
Nonperforming loans to total loans
1.13
%
0.36
%
0.32
%
0.77
%
0.04
%
Nonperforming assets to total assets
0.95
0.30
0.26
0.65
0.04
Allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans
107.44
320.59
396.18
(213.15
)
(75.59
)
Allowance for loan losses to total loans
1.21
1.15
1.28
0.06
(0.13
)
Net charge-offs/(recoveries) to average loans plus other real estate owned
0.17
0.02
0.27
0.15
(0.25
)
Liquidity and capital ratios:
Average loans to average deposits
102.29
%
94.97
%
89.17
%
7.32
%
5.80
%
Total shareholders’ equity to total assets
9.01
8.39
8.99
0.62
(0.60
)
Selected Balance Sheet Ratios of the
Company:
Regulatory total capital to risk-weighted assets
14.95
%
14.73
%
14.64
%
0.22
%
0.09
%
Regulatory leverage ratio
9.19
8.90
8.29
0.29
0.61
Noninterest bearing deposits to total deposits
18.16
23.94
18.16
(5.78
)
5.78
Time deposits to total deposits
10.85
7.11
9.02
3.74
(1.91
)
2023 compared to 2022
The Company recorded net income of $48.85 million and diluted earnings per share of $2.71 for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to net income of $74.25 million and diluted earnings per share of $4.00 for the year ended December 31, 2022. These results produced a return on average assets of 0.76 percent and 1.20 percent for 2023 and 2022, respectively, and a return on average shareholders’ equity of 8.77 percent and 14.02 percent for 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The decrease in net income for 2023 was principally driven by the Company’s decreased net interest income due to net interest margin contraction as a result of higher deposit rates experienced during 2023 and increases in the provision for loan losses and operating expenses, offset by an increase in other income. Clients continue to migrate out of noninterest bearing checking products and into higher costing alternatives, which has lead to intense competition for deposit balances from other banks and alternative investment opportunities due to the significant rise in interest rates. Both market volatility and the higher interest rate environment resulted in lower SBA sale premiums and origination volumes. The year ended December 31, 2023 reflects a decline of $4.3 million in gain on sale of SBA loans to $2.4 million when compared to $6.8 million for 2022. Operating expenses increased by $14.5 million due to increased corporate and health insurance costs, hiring in line with the Company's strategic plan, normal merit increases and expenses associated with the expansion of the Company into New York City. The year ended December 31, 2023 included one-time charges of $2.0 million related to the retirement of certain employees and $565,000 of expense associated with the closure of three retail branches.
NET INTEREST INCOME AND NET INTEREST MARGIN
The primary source of the Company’s operating income is net interest income, which is the difference between interest and dividends earned on interest-earning assets and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Interest-earning assets include loans, investment securities, interest-earning deposits and federal funds sold. Interest-bearing liabilities include interest-bearing checking, savings and time deposits, Federal Home Loan Bank advances, subordinated debt and other borrowings. Net interest income is determined by the difference between the average yields earned on interest-earning assets and the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities (“net interest spread”) and the relative amounts of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest margin ("NIM") is calculated as net interest income as a percent of total interest-earning assets. The Company’s net interest income, spread and margin are affected by regulatory, economic and competitive factors that influence interest rates, loan demand and deposit flows and general levels of nonperforming assets.
The following table compares the average balance sheets, interest rate spreads and net interest margins for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 (on a fully tax-equivalent basis "FTE"):
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Average
Income/Expense
Yield
(Dollars in thousands)
Balance
(FTE)
(FTE)
Assets:
Interest-earnings assets:
Investments:
Taxable (1)
$
800,811
$
19,743
2.47
%
Tax-exempt (1)(2)
1,251
4.00
Loans (2)(3):
Mortgages
562,488
19,733
3.51
Commercial mortgages
2,494,427
108,819
4.36
Commercial
2,254,617
144,141
6.39
Commercial construction
10,115
9.08
Installment
51,929
3,454
6.65
Home Equity
34,332
2,624
7.64
Other
11.28
Total loans
5,408,165
279,718
5.17
Federal funds sold
-
-
-
Interest-earning deposits
146,977
6,075
4.13
Total interest-earning assets
6,357,204
305,586
4.81
%
Noninterest-earning assets:
Cash and due from banks
8,973
Allowance for loan losses
(64,149
)
Premises and equipment
23,986
Other assets
79,192
Total noninterest-earning assets
48,002
Total assets
$
6,405,206
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:
Interest-bearing deposits:
Checking
$
2,777,390
$
88,829
3.20
%
Money markets
862,686
18,432
2.14
Savings
124,538
0.18
Certificates of deposit - retail and listing service
400,155
11,736
2.93
Subtotal interest-bearing deposits
4,164,769
119,226
2.86
Interest-bearing demand - brokered
13,973
4.37
Certificates of deposit - brokered
67,998
3,038
4.47
Total interest-bearing deposits
4,246,740
122,875
2.89
Borrowed funds
337,777
18,204
5.39
Finance lease liability
4,018
4.75
Subordinated debt
133,127
6,651
5.00
Total interest-bearing liabilities
4,721,662
147,921
3.13
%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Demand deposits
1,040,403
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
86,193
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities
1,126,596
Shareholders’ equity
556,948
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
6,405,206
Net interest income
$
157,665
Net interest spread
1.68
%
Net interest margin (4)
2.48
%
1.Average balances for available for sale securities are based on amortized cost.
2.Interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a 21 percent federal income tax rate.
3.Loans are stated net of unearned income and include nonaccrual loans.
4.Net interest income on an FTE basis as a percentage of total average interest-earning assets.
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Average
Income/Expense
Yield
(Dollars in thousands)
Balance
(FTE)
(FTE)
Assets:
Interest-earnings assets:
Investments:
Taxable (1)
$
803,982
$
13,854
1.72
%
Tax-exempt (1)(2)
3,521
3.89
Loans (2)(3):
Mortgages
513,189
15,165
2.96
Commercial mortgages
2,478,891
87,488
3.53
Commercial
2,046,735
90,225
4.41
Commercial construction
12,600
4.23
Installment
36,685
1,447
3.94
Home Equity
37,755
1,656
4.39
Other
9.49
Total loans
5,126,129
196,540
3.83
Federal funds sold
-
-
-
Interest-earning deposits
171,491
2,763
1.61
Total interest-earning assets
6,105,123
213,294
3.49
%
Noninterest-earning assets:
Cash and due from banks
8,046
Allowance for loan losses
(60,037
)
Premises and equipment
23,312
Other assets
111,893
Total noninterest-earning assets
83,214
Total assets
$
6,188,337
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:
Interest-bearing deposits:
Checking
$
2,363,412
$
17,861
0.76
%
Money markets
1,253,032
6,113
0.49
Savings
162,396
0.02
Certificates of deposit - retail and listing service
397,128
2,971
0.75
Subtotal interest-bearing deposits
4,175,968
26,971
0.65
Interest-bearing demand - brokered
84,178
1,579
1.88
Certificates of deposit - brokered
29,778
3.16
Total interest-bearing deposits
4,289,924
29,492
0.69
Borrowed funds
26,631
2.25
Finance lease liability
5,241
4.77
Subordinated debt
132,839
5,453
4.10
Total interest-bearing liabilities
4,454,635
35,795
0.80
%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Demand deposits
1,107,943
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
96,331
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities
1,204,274
Shareholders’ equity
529,428
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
6,188,337
Net interest income
$
177,499
Net interest spread
2.69
%
Net interest margin (4)
2.91
%
1.Average balances for available for sale securities are based on amortized cost.
2.Interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a 21 percent federal income tax rate.
3.Loans are stated net of unearned income and include nonaccrual loans.
4.Net interest income on an FTE basis as a percentage of total average interest-earning assets.
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Average
Income/Expense
Yield
(Dollars in thousands)
Balance
(FTE)
(FTE)
Assets:
Interest-earnings assets:
Investments:
Taxable (1)
$
838,174
$
11,577
1.38
%
Tax-exempt (1)(2)
6,579
4.50
Loans (2)(3):
Mortgages
503,616
15,359
3.05
Commercial mortgages
2,032,318
63,298
3.11
Commercial
1,881,683
66,652
3.54
Commercial construction
20,420
3.39
Installment
34,390
1,030
3.00
Home Equity
44,735
1,479
3.31
Other
8.50
Total loans
4,517,409
148,531
3.29
Federal funds sold
-
0.13
Interest-earning deposits
477,477
0.11
Total interest-earning assets
5,839,687
$
160,949
2.76
%
Noninterest-earning assets:
Cash and due from banks
10,396
Allowance for loan losses
(67,075
)
Premises and equipment
23,094
Other assets
197,893
Total noninterest-earning assets
164,308
Total assets
$
6,003,995
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:
Interest-bearing deposits:
Checking
$
2,078,658
$
4,426
0.21
%
Money markets
1,260,865
2,882
0.23
Savings
146,210
0.05
Certificates of deposit - retail and listing service
483,889
4,058
0.84
Subtotal interest-bearing deposits
3,969,622
11,441
0.29
Interest-bearing demand - brokered
96,301
1,721
1.79
Certificates of deposit - brokered
33,790
1,058
3.13
Total interest-bearing deposits
4,099,713
14,220
0.35
Borrowed funds
110,077
0.43
Finance lease liability
6,260
4.79
Subordinated debt
156,888
7,013
4.47
Total interest-bearing liabilities
4,372,938
22,006
0.50
%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Demand deposits
959,912
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
134,948
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities
1,094,860
Shareholders’ equity
536,197
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
6,003,995
Net interest income
$
138,943
Net interest spread
2.26
%
Net interest margin (4)
2.38
%
1.Average balances for available for sale securities are based on amortized cost.
2.Interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a 21 percent federal income tax rate.
3.Loans are stated net of unearned income and include nonaccrual loans.
4.Net interest income on an FTE basis as a percentage of total average interest-earning assets.
The effect of volume and rate changes on net interest income (on an FTE basis) for the periods indicated are shown below:
Year Ended 2023 Compared with 2022
Year Ended 2022 Compared with 2021
Net
Net
Difference due to
Change In
Change In
Change In
Change In:
Income/
Income/
Income/
(In Thousands):
Volume
Rate
Expense
Volume
Rate
Expense
ASSETS:
Investments
$
$
5,415
$
5,802
$
(430
)
$
2,548
$
2,118
Loans
13,914
69,264
83,178
21,095
26,914
48,009
Federal funds sold
-
-
-
-
-
-
Interest-earning deposits
(446
)
3,758
3,312
(544
)
2,762
2,218
Total interest income
$
13,855
$
78,437
$
92,292
$
20,121
$
32,224
$
52,345
LIABILITIES:
Checking
$
6,623
$
64,345
$
70,968
$
$
12,532
$
13,435
Money market
(2,313
)
14,632
12,319
2,999
3,231
Savings
(32
)
(5
)
(44
)
(49
)
Certificates of deposit - retail
8,742
8,765
(681
)
(406
)
(1,087
)
Certificates of deposit - brokered
1,586
2,096
(126
)
(116
)
Interest bearing demand brokered
(1,995
)
1,027
(968
)
(226
)
(142
)
Borrowed funds
13,168
4,436
17,604
(1,841
)
1,968
Finance lease liability
(58
)
(1
)
(59
)
(48
)
(2
)
(50
)
Subordinated debt
1,182
1,198
(995
)
(565
)
(1,560
)
Total interest expense
$
17,018
$
95,108
$
112,126
$
(2,787
)
$
16,576
$
13,789
Net interest income
$
(3,163
)
$
(16,671
)
$
(19,834
)
$
22,908
$
15,648
$
38,556
2023 compared to 2022
Net interest income, on a fully tax-equivalent basis, declined $19.8 million, or 11 percent, in 2023 to $157.7 million compared to $177.5 million in 2022. The net interest margin was 2.48 percent and 2.91 percent for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, a decrease of 43 basis points year over year. The decline in net interest income and NIM for the year ended December 31, 2023, when compared to 2022 was due to a rapid increase in interest expense mostly driven by higher deposit rates during 2023 and the increase in the average balance of FHLB advances and other borrowings. The ongoing Federal Reserve monetary policy tightening intended to slow inflation has led to a significant increase in interest rates, particularly rates impacting short-term investments and deposits. This has resulted in an inversion of the U.S. Treasury yield curve driving an increase in deposit and borrowing costs at a faster rate than the yields on interest earning assets.
During the first quarter of 2022, the Company executed a balance sheet reposition whereby the Company added $250.0 million of multifamily loans, funded by the sale of $125.0 million of lower-yielding, like-duration securities, and deposit growth. To manage a neutral overall duration effect on the balance sheet, thereby protecting the balance sheet against the impact of rising rates, we executed $100.0 million of forward starting five-year pay fixed swaps. The repositioning resulted in an attractive earn-back period on the loss on sale of securities, with future NIM improving by four basis points, with no impact to tangible capital or tangible book value per share.
Average interest-earning assets increased by $252.1 million to $6.36 billion at December 31, 2023 compared to $6.11 billion at 2022. The increase was predominately driven by growth in the average balance of loans of $282.0 million to $5.41 billion when comparing 2023 and 2022, which was slightly offset by a decline in the average balance of interest-earning deposits of $24.5 million and investments of $5.4 million.
Interest-earning deposits are an additional part of the Company's liquidity and interest rate risk management strategies. The combined average balance of these investments during the year ended December 31, 2023 was $147.0 million with an average yield of 4.13 percent as compared to $171.5 million and an average yield of 1.61 percent for 2022. The increase in the average yield for 2023 was due to the increase in the Federal Funds rate.
The growth in average balance of loans was driven by growth in commercial loans and residential mortgages. The average balance of commercial loans grew by $207.9 million to $2.25 billion in 2023 compared to $2.05 billion in 2022. Additionally, the average balances of residential mortgages grew $49.3 million to $562.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 from $513.2 million for the same 2022 period.
The average balance of investments was $802.1 million in 2023 compared to $807.5 million for 2022 which reflected a decrease of $5.4 million or 1 percent. During the first quarter of 2022, the Company executed a balance sheet reposition, which included the sale of $125.0 million of investments at lower yields to partially fund the purchase of like duration, higher-yielding multifamily loans. Normal amortization of the portfolio coupled with the sale resulted in a slight decline in the portfolio.
For the 2023 and 2022 periods, the average yields earned on interest-earning assets were 4.81 percent and 3.49 percent, respectively, an increase of 132 basis points. The increase in the yields on interest-earning assets was primarily due to the increase in target Federal Funds rate of 525 basis points. This resulted in an increased yield on loans of 134 basis points to 5.17 percent for 2023 when compared to 3.83 percent for 2022. The yield on interest-earning deposits increased 252 basis points to 4.13 percent for 2023 when compared to 1.61 percent for the prior year.
The increase for the year ended December 31, 2023 when compared to the prior period was driven by an increase in the yield on commercial loans of 198 basis points to 6.39 percent for 2023, due to an increase in target Federal Funds rate of 525 basis points which had a greater impact on these loans, which are typically floating rates with short repricing periods. The yield on commercial mortgages for 2023 was 4.36 percent, which reflected an increase of 83 basis points when compared to 2022, which was primarily driven by the origination of loans with higher yields in the current higher interest rate environment. In addition, at December 31, 2023, 20 percent of our loans will reprice within one month, 34 percent within three months and 47 percent within one year.
During 2023 and 2022, the Company recorded yield on investments of 2.47 percent and 1.73 percent, respectively. The increase in yield was due to the Company strategically purchasing higher-yielding investments during 2022 in anticipation of maturities and to utilize excess liquidity.
The average balance of interest-bearing liabilities totaled $4.72 billion for 2023 representing an increase of $267.0 million, or 6 percent, from $4.45 billion in 2022. The increase in interest-bearing liabilities was primarily due to an increase in the average balance of borrowings of $311.1 million to $337.8 million in 2023 from $26.6 million in 2022. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in interest-bearing deposits of $43.2 million to $4.25 billion in 2023 from $4.29 billion in 2022.
The decrease in the average balance of interest-bearing deposits was primarily due to a decline of money market deposits of $390.3 million to $862.7 million from $1.25 billion and savings deposits decreasing $37.9 million in 2023. Money market and savings accounts declined in 2023 due to clients shifting balances into higher-yielding short-term Treasuries and interest-bearing checking accounts. These decreases were offset by an increase into checking accounts for 2023 of $414.0 million due to the clients demand for FDIC insured products. The Company added a short-term brokered certificate of deposit ("CD") of $100.0 million in 2023 to provide additional liquidity and replace brokered deposit run off. The average balance of retail CDs increased in 2023 by $3.0 million due to consumer demand for higher-yielding deposit products.
The Company is a participant in the Reich & Tang demand Deposit Marketplace ("DDM") program and the Promontory Program. The Company uses these deposit sweep services to place customer funds into interest-bearing demand (checking) accounts at other participating banks. Customer funds are placed at one or more participating banks to ensure that each deposit customer is eligible for the full amount of FDIC insurance. As a participant, the Company receives an equal amount of reciprocal deposits from other participating banks. Such average reciprocal deposit balances were $862.5 million and $662.0 million for 2023 and 2022, respectively.
At December 31, 2023, uninsured/unprotected deposits were approximately $1.18 billion, or 22 percent of total deposits. This amount was adjusted to exclude $287 million of public fund deposit balances, which are fully-collateralized and protected with securities and an FHLBNY letter of credit.
The increase in borrowings of $311.1 million to $337.8 million for 2023 was principally due to the need for additional funding due to the decline in demand deposits.
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the cost of interest-bearing liabilities was 3.13 percent and 0.80 percent, respectively, reflecting an increase of 233 basis points. The increase was driven by an increase in the average cost of interest-bearing deposits of 220 basis points to 2.89 percent for 2023. The increase in deposit and borrowing rates was due to the Federal Reserve raising the target Federal Funds rate by 525 basis points since March 2022 and a change in the composition of the deposit portfolio. The cost of borrowings increased by 314 basis points to 5.39 percent in 2023. The average cost of interest-bearing liabilities was also affected by an increase in the cost of subordinated debt of 90 basis points to 5.00 percent for 2023.
INVESTMENT SECURITIES: Investment securities held to maturity are those securities that the Company has both the ability and intent to hold to maturity. These securities are carried at amortized cost. Investment securities available for sale are purchased, sold and/or maintained as a part of the Company’s overall balance sheet, liquidity and interest rate risk management strategies, and in response to changes in interest rates, liquidity needs, prepayment speeds and/or other factors. These securities are carried at estimated fair value, and unrealized changes in fair value are recognized as a separate component of shareholders’ equity, net of income taxes. Realized gains and losses are recognized in income at the time the securities are sold. Equity securities are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses recorded in non-interest income as incurred.
At December 31, 2023, the Company had investment securities held to maturity with a carrying cost of $107.8 million and an estimated fair value of $94.4 million compared with a carrying cost of $102.3 million and an estimated fair value of $87.2 million at December 31, 2022.
At December 31, 2023, the Company had investment securities available for sale with an estimated fair value of $550.6 million compared with $554.6 million at December 31, 2022. A net unrealized loss (net of income tax) of $69.2 million and a net unrealized loss (net of income tax) of $81.0 million were included in shareholders’ equity at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The Company had one equity security (a CRA investment security) with a fair value of $13.2 million and $13.0 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, with changes in fair value recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income. The Company recorded an unrealized gain of $181,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to a $1.7 million unrealized loss for the year ended December 31, 2022.
The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities held to maturity and available for sale at December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 are shown below:
(In thousands)
Amortized Cost
Estimated Fair Value
Amortized Cost
Estimated Fair Value
Amortized Cost
Estimated Fair Value
Investment securities - held to maturity:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
40,000
$
36,631
$
40,000
$
35,437
$
40,000
$
39,982
Mortgage-backed securities-residential (principally
U.S. government-sponsored entities)
67,755
57,784
62,291
51,750
68,680
68,478
Total investment securities - held to maturity
$
107,755
$
94,415
$
102,291
$
87,187
$
108,680
$
108,460
Investment securities - available for sale:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
244,794
$
197,691
$
244,774
$
190,542
$
280,045
$
272,221
Mortgage-backed securities-residential (principally
U.S. government-sponsored entities)
363,893
320,796
372,471
325,738
481,062
476,974
SBA pool securities
27,148
23,404
31,934
27,427
40,649
39,561
State and political subdivision
-
-
1,866
1,849
5,431
5,476
Corporate bond
10,000
8,726
10,000
9,092
2,500
2,521
Total investment securities - available for sale
$
645,835
$
550,617
$
661,045
$
554,648
$
809,687
$
796,753
Total investment securities
$
753,590
$
645,032
$
763,336
$
641,835
$
918,367
$
905,213
The following table presents the contractual maturities and yields of debt securities held to maturity and available for sale as of December 31, 2023. The weighted average yield is a computation of income within each maturity range based on the amortized cost of securities:
After 1
After 5
But
But
After
Within
Within
Within
(Dollars in thousands)
1 Year
5 Years
10 Years
Years
Total
Investment securities - held to maturity:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
-
$
40,000
$
-
$
-
$
40,000
-
%
1.53
%
-
%
-
%
1.53
%
Mortgage-backed securities-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
67,755
$
67,755
residential (1)
-
%
-
%
-
%
2.23
%
2.23
%
Total investment securities - held to maturity
$
-
$
40,000
$
-
$
67,755
$
107,755
-
%
1.53
%
-
%
2.23
%
1.97
%
Investment securities - available for sale:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
-
$
30,752
$
106,449
$
60,490
$
197,691
-
%
1.24
%
1.53
%
1.75
%
1.56
%
Mortgage-backed securities-
$
50,177
$
8,669
$
26,000
$
235,950
$
320,796
residential (1)
6.10
%
2.86
%
2.80
%
2.57
%
3.08
%
SBA pool securities
$
-
$
-
$
8,996
$
14,408
$
23,404
-
%
-
%
1.99
%
1.45
%
1.65
%
Corporate bond
$
-
$
-
$
8,726
$
-
$
8,726
-
%
-
%
4.81
%
-
%
4.81
%
Total investment securities - available for sale
$
50,177
$
39,421
$
150,171
$
310,848
$
550,617
6.10
%
1.57
%
1.95
%
2.34
%
2.47
%
Total investment securities
$
50,177
$
79,421
$
150,171
$
378,603
$
658,372
6.10
%
1.55
%
1.95
%
2.32
%
2.39
%
(1)Shown using stated final maturity
LOANS: The loan portfolio represents the largest portion of the Company’s interest-earning assets and is the primary source of interest and fee income. Loans are primarily originated in New Jersey and the boroughs of New York City and, to a lesser extent, Pennsylvania and Delaware. The Company also offers equipment financing loan and leases that are originated nationally. As of December 31, 2023, 42 percent of the total loan portfolio consisted of C&I loans (including equipment financing), 34 percent of multifamily loans and 12 percent of commercial mortgages.
Total loans were $5.43 billion and $5.29 billion at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, an increase of $144.1 million, over the previous year. Residential loans increased $52.6 million to $578.3 million at December 31, 2023 from $525.8 million at December 31, 2022. Multifamily mortgage loans were $1.84 billion at December 31, 2023, a decrease of $27.5 million, or 1 percent, when compared to $1.86 billion at December 31, 2022. During 2023, commercial mortgages increased $13.0 million to $637.6 million when compared to $624.6 million for 2022. Commercial loans, which includes equipment financing, totaled $2.26 billion at December 31, 2023. This was an increase of $66.4 million, or 3 percent, when compared to December 31, 2022.
The Company originates loans that are partially guaranteed by the SBA, for the purposes of providing working capital and/or, financing the purchase of equipment, inventory or commercial real estate and that could be used for start-up and smaller businesses. All SBA loans are underwritten and documented as prescribed by the SBA. The Company generally sells the guaranteed portion of the SBA loans in the secondary market, with the non-guaranteed portion held in the loan portfolio. During 2023, the Bank sold $32.4 million of the guaranteed portion of SBA loans into the secondary market. As of December 31, 2023, the balance of the non-guaranteed portion of SBA loans held on our balance sheet totaled $47.9 million and was included in commercial loans.
The following table presents the contractual repayments of the loan portfolio, by loan type, at December 31, 2023:
After 5 But
Within
After 1 But
Within
After
(In thousands)
One Year
Within 5 Years
15 Years
15 Years
Total
Residential mortgage
$
1,584
$
13,518
$
74,173
$
489,052
$
578,327
Commercial mortgage (including multifamily)
101,633
668,521
1,651,532
52,329
2,474,015
Commercial loans (including equipment financing)
414,855
1,314,393
447,627
83,649
2,260,524
Commercial construction
-
-
17,721
-
17,721
Home equity lines of credit
-
1,659
34,477
36,464
Consumer and other loans
25,772
4,929
30,900
62,274
Total loans
$
519,073
$
2,022,204
$
2,197,641
$
690,407
$
5,429,325
The following table presents the loans, by loan type, that have a fixed interest rate and an adjustable interest rate due after one year:
Fixed
Adjustable
(In thousands)
Interest Rate
Interest Rate
Residential mortgage
$
566,386
$
10,357
Commercial mortgage (including multifamily)
1,937,764
434,618
Commercial loans (including equipment financing)
1,043,274
802,395
Commercial construction
-
17,721
Home equity lines of credit
-
36,136
Consumer and other loans
5,851
55,750
Total loans
$
3,553,275
$
1,356,977
The Company has not made nor invested in subprime loans or “Alt-A” type mortgages.
The geographic breakdown of the multifamily portfolio, net of participated multifamily loans, at December 31, 2023 is as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)
New York
$
1,011,181
%
New Jersey
573,273
Pennsylvania
217,581
Other
34,355
Total Multifamily
$
1,836,390
%
A further breakdown of the multifamily portfolio by county within each respective State is as follows:
New Jersey
New York
Pennsylvania
Essex County
%
Bronx County
%
Philadelphia County
%
Hudson County
Kings County
Lehigh County
Union County
New York County
York County
Morris County
Westchester County
Lycoming County
Bergen County
All other NY counties
Bucks County
Monmouth County
All other PA counties
All other NJ counties
Total
%
Total
%
Total
%
Principal types of owner occupied commercial real estate properties (by Call Report code), included in commercial mortgage loans on the balance sheet, at December 31, 2023 are:
(Dollars in thousands)
Office Buildings/Office Condominiums
$
66,321
%
Industrial (including Warehouse)
57,108
Medical Offices
42,748
Retail Buildings/Shopping Centers
25,109
Other Owner Occupied CRE Properties
63,824
Total Owner Occupied CRE Loans
$
255,110
%
Principal types of non-owner occupied commercial real estate properties (by Call Report code), at December 31, 2023 are as follows. These loans are included in commercial mortgage loans and commercial loans on the Company’s balance sheet.
(Dollars in thousands)
Healthcare
$
322,179
%
Retail Buildings/Shopping Centers
229,400
Office Buildings/Office Condominiums
106,981
Hotels and Hospitality
96,157
Industrial (including Warehouse)
65,264
Medical Offices
67,200
Mixed Use (Commercial/Residential)
60,508
Mixed Use (Retail/Office)
27,833
Other Non-Owner Occupied CRE Properties
85,675
Total Non-Owner Occupied CRE Loans
$
1,061,197
%
At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Bank had a concentration in commercial real estate loans as defined by applicable regulatory guidance. The following table presents such concentration levels at December 31, 2023 and 2022:
As of December 31,
Multifamily mortgage loans as a percent of total regulatory capital of the Bank
%
%
Non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans as a percent of
total regulatory capital of the Bank
Total CRE concentration
%
%
The Bank believes it addresses the key elements in the risk management framework laid out by its regulators for the effective management of CRE concentration risks.
GOODWILL: At both December 31, 2023 and 2022, goodwill was $36.2 million. The Bank intends to continue to grow its wealth management business through growth in existing relationships, attraction of new clients and acquisitions. Future acquisitions could result in additional goodwill.
DEPOSITS: The following table sets forth the details of total deposits as of December 31:
(Dollars in thousands)
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits
$
957,687
18.16
%
$
1,246,066
23.94
%
Interest-bearing checking (1)
2,882,193
54.65
2,143,611
41.18
Savings
111,573
2.12
157,338
3.02
Money market
740,559
14.04
1,228,234
23.60
Certificates of deposit - retail
443,791
8.41
318,573
6.12
Certificates of deposit - listing service
7,804
0.15
25,358
0.49
Subtotal deposits
5,143,607
97.53
5,119,180
98.35
Interest-bearing demand - Brokered
10,000
0.19
60,000
1.15
Certificates of deposit - Brokered
120,507
2.28
25,984
0.50
Total deposits
$
5,274,114
100.00
%
$
5,205,164
100.00
%
(1) Interest-bearing checking included $990.7 million at December 31, 2023 and $620.1 million at December 31, 2022 of reciprocal balances in the Reich & Tang or Promontory Demand Deposit Marketplace programs.
At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company reported total deposits of $5.27 billion and $5.21 billion, an increase of $69.0 million, or 1 percent, year over year. The Company’s strategy is to fund a majority of its loan growth with core deposits, which is an important factor in the generation of net interest income. The Company saw limited deposit increases in 2023 as the ongoing acquisition of new relationships driven by our private banking strategy was offset by several large relationships strategically utilizing their funds, including transferring funds to our Wealth Management business, acquisitions, further investing in their business, and purchasing real estate and other investments. The Company’s deposit balances at December 31, 2023 increased $69.0 million, or 1 percent, from 2022 levels to $5.27 billion. The increase was primarily due to increases of $738.6 million in interest-bearing demand deposits, $125.2 million in retail certificates of deposit and $94.5 million in brokered certificates of deposit. Increases in these accounts were a result of clients shifting balances from lower-yielding money market and noninterest-bearing demand deposits to higher-yielding deposit accounts which include reciprocal accounts that offer insurance protection. The growth in new client relationships was driven by several factors including an increase in retail deposits from our branch network; a focus on providing high-touch client service; and a full array of treasury management products that support core deposit growth. The Company has also successfully focused on:
•Growth in deposits associated with its private banking relationships, including lending activities; and
•Business and personal core deposit generation, particularly checking accounts.
The Company continues to leverage interest rate swaps to extend the duration to the matched deposits. At December 31, 2023, the Company had transacted pay fixed, receive floating interest rate swaps totaling $310.0 million in notional amount.
The following table sets forth information concerning the composition of the Company’s average balance of deposits and average interest rates paid for the following years:
(Dollars in thousands)
Noninterest-bearing demand
$
1,040,403
-
%
$
1,107,943
-
%
$
959,912
-
%
Checking
2,777,390
3.20
2,363,412
0.76
2,078,658
0.21
Savings
124,538
0.18
162,396
0.02
146,210
0.05
Money markets
862,686
2.14
1,253,032
0.49
1,260,865
0.23
Certificates of deposit - retail and listing
service
400,155
2.93
397,128
0.75
483,889
0.84
Interest-bearing
Demand - brokered
13,973
4.37
84,178
1.88
96,301
1.79
Certificates of deposit - brokered
67,998
4.47
29,778
3.16
33,790
3.13
Total deposits
$
5,287,143
2.32
%
$
5,397,867
0.55
%
$
5,059,625
0.28
%
At December 31, 2023, the Company carried deposits that exceed the FDIC insurance limit of $250,000. At December 31, 2023, we had no deposits that were uninsured for any reason other than being in excess of the maximum amount for federal deposit insurance.
The following table shows the maturity for certificates of deposit of $250,000 or more as of December 31, 2023 (in thousands):
Three months or less
$
10,691
Over three months through six months
5,508
Over six months through year
73,641
Over year
16,108
Total
$
105,948
FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK ADVANCES AND OTHER BORROWINGS: As part of our overall funding and liquidity management program, from time to time we borrow from the Federal Home Loan Bank (the "FHLB").
As of December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount outstanding at end of the year
$
403,814
$
379,530
$
-
Weighted average interest rate end of the year
5.62
%
4.61
%
-
%
Average daily balance during the year
$
337,777
$
26,631
$
110,077
Weighted average interest rate during the year
5.39
%
2.25
%
0.43
%
Maximum month-end balance during the year
$
541,796
$
379,530
$
186,115
At December 31, 2023, the Company had $403.8 million of overnight borrowings at the FHLB at a rate of 5.62 percent compared to $379.5 million of overnight borrowings at the FHLB at a rate of 4.61 percent at December 31, 2022 and no overnight borrowings at December 31, 2021.
At December 31, 2023, unused short-term or overnight borrowing commitments totaled $1.4 billion from the FHLB, $22.0 million from correspondent banks and $1.7 billion from the Federal Reserve Bank.
SUBORDINATED DEBT: In December 2017, the Company issued $35.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating subordinated notes (the “2017 Notes”) to certain institutional investors. The 2017 Notes have a stated maturity of December 15, 2027, and an interest rate that resets quarterly to a level equal to the then current three-month LIBOR rate plus 254 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears (which was 8.21 percent at December 31, 2023). Debt issuance costs incurred totaled $875,000 and are being amortized to maturity.
In December 2020, the Company issued $100.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed to floating subordinated notes (the “2020 Notes”) to certain institutional investors. The 2020 Notes are non-callable for five years, have a stated maturity of December 22, 2030, and bear interest at a fixed rate of 3.50 percent per year until December 22, 2025. From December 23, 2025 to the maturity date or early redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to a level equal to the then current three-month SOFR plus 326 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears. Debt issuance costs incurred totaled $1.9 million and are being amortized to maturity.
The Company used the proceeds from the issuance of the 2020 Notes to refinance then-outstanding debt, for stock repurchases, acquisitions of wealth management firms, as well as other general corporate purposes.
Subordinated debt is presented net of issuance cost on the Consolidated Statements of Condition. The subordinated debt issuances are included in the Company’s regulatory total capital amount and ratio.
In connection with the issuance of the 2020 Notes, the Company obtained ratings from Kroll Bond Rating Agency (“KBRA”) and Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”). KBRA assigned investment grade rating of BBB- and Moody’s assigned investment grade rating of Baa3 for the 2020 Notes at the time of issuance.
ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES AND RELATED PROVISION: The allowance for credit losses ("ACL") was $65.9 million at December 31, 2023 compared to $60.8 million at December 31, 2022. The increase in the allowance for credit losses was due to the provision for credit losses of $14.1 million. The provision was partially offset by net charge-offs of $2.2 million on a previously established reserve related to one multifamily loan and $5.6 million on one equipment finance relationship. Additionally, there was a specific reserve of $4.2 million for one freight related credit with an outstanding
balance of $23.5 million recorded during the year ended December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2023, the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans outstanding was 1.21 percent compared to 1.15 percent at December 31, 2022. The Company believes that the allowance for credit losses as of December 31, 2023, represents a reasonable estimate for probable incurred losses in the portfolio at that date.
The provision for credit losses was $14.1 million for 2023, $6.4 million for 2022 and $6.5 million for 2021. The increase in the provision for credit losses for 2023 was primarily due to elevated levels of net charge-offs of $9.1 million, as compared to $1.2 million for 2022.
In determining an appropriate amount for the allowance, the Bank segments and aggregates the loan portfolio based on common characteristics. The following segments have been identified:
a)Primary Residential Mortgages. The Bank originates one-to-four-family residential mortgage loans in the Tri-State area (New York, New Jersey and Connecticut), Pennsylvania and Florida. On a case-by-case basis, the Bank will lend in additional states. When reviewing residential mortgage loan applications, detailed verifiable information is gathered on income, assets, employment and a tri-merged credit report obtained from a credit repository that will determine total monthly debt obligations. Utilizing an independent appraisal from an approved appraisal management company, the Bank makes residential mortgage loans up to 80 percent of the appraised value. Maximum loan-to-value (“LTV”) is determined based on property type and loan amount. On primary residences and second home properties, LTVs range from a maximum of 80 percent for loan amounts to $1 million to 50 percent for loan amounts to $5 million. For investment properties, LTVs range from a maximum of 65 percent for loan amounts to $1 million to 50 percent for loan amounts to $3 million. Loans greater than $5 million will also be considered based on the strength of the overall credit profile of the borrower. Underwriting guidelines include (i) minimum credit report scores of 700 and (ii) a maximum debt to income ratio of 45 percent. The Bank may consider an exception to any guideline if there are strong compensating factors that mitigate any risk. Generally, the Bank retains in its portfolio residential mortgage loans with fixed rate maturities of no greater than ten years, which then convert to annually adjusted floating rates. Community Development loans granted under the Affordable Housing Program are offered with 30-year maturities. Loans with longer maturities or lower credit scores are sold to secondary market investors. The Bank does not originate, purchase or carry any sub-prime mortgage loans.
Risk characteristics associated with primary residential mortgage loans typically involve major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income, unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic events; and divorce or death. In addition, residential mortgage loans that have adjustable rates could expose the borrower to higher debt service requirements in a rising interest rate environment. Further, real estate values could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential exposure for the Bank.
b)Junior Lien Loan on Residence (which include home equity lines of credit). The Bank provides junior lien loans (“JLL”) and revolving home equity lines of credit against one-to-four-family properties in the Tri-State area. Junior lien loans can be either an amortizing fixed rate home equity loan or a revolving home equity line of credit. These loans are subordinate to a first mortgage which may be from another lending institution. The Bank requires that the mortgage securing the JLL be no lower than a second lien position. When reviewing the JLL application, the Bank collects detailed verifiable information regarding income, assets, employment and a credit report that determines total monthly debt obligations. The Bank uses an independent appraisal of the subject property on all applications. LTVs and combined LTVs are capped at 70 percent for JLLs and 75 percent for home equity lines of credit if the property type is a primary residence. All applications for JLLs adhere to applicable underwriting standards and guidelines. Exceptions can be made to these guidelines with compensating factors that mitigate the risk associated with the exception. Primary risk characteristics associated with JLLs typically involve major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income; unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic events; and divorce or death. In addition, home equity lines of credit typically are made with variable or floating interest rates, such as the Prime Rate, which could expose the borrower to higher debt service requirements in a rising interest rate environment. Further, real estate values could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential exposure for the Bank.
c)Multifamily Loans. Multifamily loans are commercial mortgages on residential apartment buildings. Within the multifamily sector, the Bank’s primary focus is to lend against larger non-luxury apartment buildings and rent regulated properties with at least 30 units that are owned and managed by experienced sponsors. As of December 31, 2023, the average property size in the portfolio was 47 units.
Multifamily loans are expected to be repaid from the cash flows of the underlying property so the collective amount of rents must be sufficient to cover all operating expenses, maintenance, taxes and debt service. Increases in vacancy rates, interest rates or other changes in general economic conditions can have an impact on the borrower and their ability to repay the loan. Certain markets, such as the Boroughs of New York City, are rent regulated, and as such, feature rents that are considered to be below market rates. Generally, rent regulated properties are characterized by relatively stable occupancy levels and longer-term tenants. As a loan asset class for many banks, multifamily loans have experienced much lower historical loss rates compared to other types of commercial lending.
The Bank’s loan policy allows loan to appraised value ratios of up to 75 percent and the overall portfolio average loan to value ratio was approximately 62 percent at December 31, 2023 based on appraisals at the time of origination. The majority of all new originations have a ten-year maturity with a repricing of the interest rate after five years.
Multifamily loan terms include prepayment penalties and generally require that the Bank escrow for real estate taxes. Multifamily loans will typically have a minimum debt service coverage ratio that provides for an adequate cushion for unexpected or uncertain events and changes in market conditions. In the loan underwriting process, the Bank requires an independent appraisal and review, appropriate environmental due diligence and an assessment of the property’s condition.
Multifamily properties generally present a lower level of risk as compared to investment commercial real estate projects given that there are a larger number of tenants in the property. The repayment of loans secured by multifamily real estate is typically dependent upon the successful operation of the related real estate property. If the cash flows from the property are reduced (for example, if leases are not obtained or renewed, or a bankruptcy court modifies a lease term), the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired.
d) Owner-Occupied Commercial Real Estate Loans. The Bank provides mortgage loans for owner-occupied commercial real estate properties in the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania.
The terms and conditions of all commercial mortgage loans are tailored to the specific attributes of the borrower and any guarantors as well as the nature of the property and loan purpose.
With an owner-occupied property, a detailed credit assessment is made of the operating business since its ongoing success and profitability will be the primary source of repayment. While owner-occupied properties include the real estate as collateral, the risk assessment of the operating business is more similar to the underwriting of commercial and industrial loans (described below). The Bank evaluates factors such as, but not limited to, the expected sustainability of profits and cash flows, the depth and experience of management and ownership, the nature of competition, and the impact of forces like regulatory change and evolving technology.
Commercial mortgage loans are generally made with an initial fixed rate with periodic rate resets every five or seven years over an underlying market index. Resets may not be automatic and subject to re-approval. Commercial mortgage loan terms include prepayment penalties and generally require that the Bank escrow for real estate taxes. The Bank requires an independent appraisal, an assessment of the property’s condition, and appropriate environmental due diligence. With all commercial real estate loans, the Bank’s standard practice is to require a depository relationship.
e)Investment Commercial Real Estate Loans. The Bank provides mortgage loans for properties managed as an investment property (non-owner-occupied) in the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania.
The terms and conditions of all commercial mortgage loans are tailored to the specific attributes of the borrower and any guarantors as well as the nature of the property and loan purpose. In the case of investment commercial real estate properties, the Bank reviews, among other things, the composition and mix of the underlying tenants, terms and conditions of the underlying tenant lease agreements, the resources and experience of the sponsor, and the condition and location of the subject property.
Commercial real estate loans are generally considered to have a higher degree of credit risk than multifamily loans as they may be dependent on the ongoing success and operating viability of a fewer number of tenants who are occupying the property and who may have a greater degree of exposure to various industry or economic conditions. To mitigate this risk, the Bank generally requires an assignment of leases, direct recourse to the owners, and a risk appropriate interest rate and loan structure. In underwriting an investment commercial real estate loan, the Bank evaluates the property’s historical operating income as well as its projected sustainable cash flows and generally requires a minimum debt service coverage ratio that provides for an adequate cushion for unexpected or uncertain events and changes in market conditions.
Commercial mortgage loans are generally made with an initial fixed rate with periodic rate resets every five or seven years over an underlying market index. Resets may not be automatic and subject to re-approval. Commercial mortgage loan terms include prepayment penalties and generally require that the Bank escrow for real estate taxes. The Bank requires an independent appraisal, an assessment of the property’s condition, and appropriate environmental due diligence. With all commercial real estate loans, the Bank’s standard practice is to require a depository relationship.
f)Commercial and Industrial Loans. The Bank provides lines of credit and term loans to operating companies for business purposes. The loans are generally secured by business assets such as accounts receivable, inventory, business vehicles and equipment as well as the stock of the company, if privately held. In addition, these loans often include commercial real estate as collateral to strengthen the Bank’s position and further mitigate risk. When underwriting business loans, among other things, the Bank evaluates the historical profitability and debt servicing capacity of the borrowing entity and the financial resources and character of the principal owners and guarantors.
Commercial and industrial loans are typically repaid by the cash flows generated by the borrower’s business. The primary risk characteristics are specific to the underlying business and its ability to generate sustainable profitability and resulting positive cash flows. Factors that may influence a business’ profitability include, but are not limited to, demand for its products or services, quality and depth of management, degree of competition, regulatory changes, and general economic conditions. Commercial and industrial loans are generally secured by business assets; however, the ability of the Bank to foreclose and realize sufficient value from the assets is often highly uncertain. To mitigate the risk characteristics of commercial and industrial loans, the Bank often requires more frequent reporting requirements from the borrower in order to better monitor its business performance.
g)Leasing and Equipment Finance. Peapack Capital Corporation (“PCC”), a subsidiary of the Bank, offers a range of finance solutions nationally. PCC provides term loans and leases secured by assets financed for U.S. based mid-size and large companies. Facilities tend to be fully drawn under fixed-rate terms. PCC serves a broad range of industries including transportation, manufacturing, heavy construction and utilities.
Asset risk in PCC’s portfolio is generally recognized through changes to loan income, or through changes to lease related income streams due to fluctuations in lease rates. Changes to lease income can occur when the existing lease contract expires, the asset comes off lease, or the business seeks to enter a new lease agreement. Asset risk may also change depreciation, resulting from changes in the residual value of the operating lease asset or through impairment of the asset carrying value, which can occur at any time during the life of the asset.
Credit risk in PCC’s portfolio generally results from the potential default of borrowers or lessees, which may be driven by customer specific or broader industry related conditions. Credit losses can impact multiple parts of the
income statement including an increase in the provision for credit losses, loss of interest/lease/rental income and/or via higher costs and expenses related to the repossession, refurbishment, re-marketing and or re-leasing of assets.
h) Construction. The Bank provides commercial construction loans for properties located in the Tri-state area. Risks common to commercial construction loans are cost overruns, changes in market demand for property, inadequate long-term financing arrangements and declines in real estate values. Changes in market demand for property could lead to longer marketing times resulting in higher carrying costs, declining values, and higher interest rates.
i) Consumer and Other. These are loans to individuals for household, family and other personal expenditures as well as obligations of states and political subdivisions in the U.S. This also represents all other loans that cannot be categorized in any of the previous mentioned loan segments. Consumer loans generally have higher interest rates and shorter terms than residential loans but tend to have higher credit risk due to the type of collateral securing the loan or in some cases the absence of collateral.
Management believes that the underwriting guidelines previously described adequately address the primary risk characteristics. Further, the Bank has dedicated staff and resources to monitor and collect on any potentially problematic loans.
The adoption of CECL on January 1, 2022 resulted in a day 1 reduction of $5.5 million. The lower allowance was in part attributed to historically low charge-offs combined with the shorter duration of the loan portfolio employed in our CECL analysis. Further, the incurred loss method required significant qualitative factors, including factors related to COVID-19, and the use of a multiplier for potential losses on criticized and classified loans, neither of which are included within the CECL methodology. The CECL methodology utilizes less qualitative factors as it uses economic factors and considers relevant available information from internal and external sources related to past events and calculates losses based on discounted cash flows on an individual loan basis. Accordingly, the CECL model quantitatively accounts for some of the qualitative factors utilized in the incurred loss methodology.
The following table presents the credit loss experience, by loan type, during the years ended December 31:
(Dollars in thousands)
Average loans outstanding
$
5,396,212
$
5,105,200
$
4,494,473
$
4,552,358
$
4,035,603
Allowance for credit losses at beginning of year (A)
$
60,829
$
61,697
$
67,309
$
43,676
$
38,504
Day one CECL adjustment
-
(5,536
)
-
-
-
Loans charged-off during the period:
Residential mortgage
-
-
Commercial mortgage
3,422
1,450
7,137
1,485
-
Commercial
5,594
-
5,019
7,132
-
Home equity lines of credit
-
-
-
-
Consumer and other
Total loans charged-off
9,155
1,506
12,248
9,203
Recoveries during the period:
Residential mortgage
-
Commercial mortgage
-
-
-
Commercial
-
Home equity lines of credit
-
-
Consumer and other
Total recoveries
1,307
Net charge-offs/(recoveries)
9,097
1,235
12,087
8,767
(1,172
)
Provision charge to expense
14,156
5,903
6,475
32,400
4,000
Allowance for credit losses at end of year
$
65,888
$
60,829
$
61,697
$
67,309
$
43,676
Ratios:
Allowance for credit losses/total loans (B)
1.21
%
1.15
%
1.28
%
1.54
%
0.99
%
Allowance for loans collectively evaluated/total loans (B)
1.13
%
1.12
%
1.20
%
1.48
%
0.93
%
Nonaccrual loans/total loans (B)
1.13
%
0.36
%
0.32
%
0.26
%
0.66
%
Allowance for credit losses/
total nonperforming loans
107.44
%
320.59
%
396.18
%
589.91
%
151.23
%
Net charge offs/average loans:
Residential mortgage
0.00
%
0.00
%
0.00
%
0.00
%
-0.01
%
Commercial mortgage
0.06
%
0.03
%
0.16
%
0.03
%
-0.02
%
Commercial
0.10
%
0.00
%
0.11
%
0.16
%
0.00
%
Home equity lines of credit
0.00
%
0.00
%
0.00
%
0.00
%
0.00
%
Consumer and other
0.00
%
0.00
%
0.00
%
0.00
%
0.00
%
Total net charge offs/average loans
0.17
%
0.02
%
0.27
%
0.19
%
-0.03
%
(A)Commencing on January 1, 2022, the allowance calculation is based on the CECL methodology. Prior to January 1, 2022, the calculation was based on the incurred loss methodology. Provision to roll forward the ACL excludes a credit of $65,000 and a provision of $450,000 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to off-balance sheet commitments.
(B)The December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 ACL coverage ratios include PPP loans of $1.0 million, $1.7 million and $13.8 million, respectively.
The following table shows the allocation of the allowance for credit losses and the percentage of each loan category, by collateral type, to total loans as of December 31, of the years indicated:
% of
% of
% of
% of
% of
Loan
Loan
Loan
Loan
Loan
Category
Category
Category
Category
Category
To Total
To Total
To Total
To Total
To Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans
Loans
Loans
Loans
Loans
Residential
$
4,108
11.5
$
3,048
10.7
$
1,520
11.3
$
3,138
13.0
$
2,231
14.6
Commercial and other
60,911
87.3
57,244
88.5
59,962
87.8
63,892
86.0
41,149
84.1
Consumer and other
1.2
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.3
Total
$
65,888
100.0
$
60,829
100.0
$
61,697
100.0
$
67,309
100.0
$
43,676
100.0
The portion of the allowance for credit losses allocated to loans collectively evaluated for impairment, commonly referred to as general reserves, were $61.3 million at December 31, 2023 and $59.3 million at December 31, 2022. General reserves at
December 31, 2023 represented 1.13 percent of loans collectively evaluated for impairment compared to 1.12 percent at December 31, 2022. The specific reserves on individually evaluated loans were $4.5 million at December 31, 2023 compared to $1.5 million at December 31, 2022. Specific reserves were largely attributable to a $4.2 million reserve associated with one freight-related credit totaling $23.5 million at December 31, 2023.
The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans decreased to 107.44 percent due to an increase in nonperforming loans. Nonperforming loans increased from $19.0 million to $61.3 million impacted by one freight related client totaling $23.5 million that was transferred to nonaccrual status during the year and three multifamily credits totaling $16.6 million at December 31, 2023. Nonperforming loans are specifically evaluated for impairment. Also, the Company commonly records partial charge-offs of the excess of the principal balance over the fair value, less estimated costs to sell, of collateral for collateral-dependent impaired loans. As a result, the allowance for credit losses does not always change proportionately with changes in nonperforming loans. The Company charged off $9.0 million on loans identified as collateral-dependent individually evaluated loans during 2023, which included $3.2 million in charge-offs of the specific reserve on the previously mentioned freight-related credit and multifamily property. The Company charged off $1.5 million on loans identified as collateral-dependent impaired loans during 2022.
ASSET QUALITY: The following table presents various asset quality data at the dates indicated. These tables do not include loans held for sale.
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans past due 30-89 days (1)
$
34,589
$
7,592
$
8,606
$
5,053
$
1,910
Modifications
$
3,254
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Troubled debt restructured loans (2)
$
-
$
14,318
$
3,575
$
4,247
$
28,178
Loans past due 90 days or more and
still accruing interest
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Nonaccrual loans (3)
61,324
18,974
15,573
11,410
28,881
Total nonperforming loans
61,324
18,974
15,573
11,410
28,881
Other real estate owned
-
-
Total nonperforming assets
$
61,324
$
19,090
$
15,573
$
11,460
$
28,931
Ratios:
Total nonperforming loans/total loans
1.13
%
0.36
%
0.32
%
0.26
%
0.66
%
Total nonperforming loans/total assets
0.95
0.30
0.26
0.19
0.56
Total nonperforming assets/total assets
0.95
0.30
0.26
0.19
0.56
(1)Includes $16.5 million and $4.5 million outstanding to U.S. governmental entities at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. Includes $6.9 million for one equipment lease principally due to administrative issues with the servicer and at the lessee/borrower at December 31, 2021.
(2)On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update 2022-02, which replaced the accounting and recognition of TDRs.
(3)The increase in nonaccrual loans in 2023 was due to one freight credit totaling $23.5 million and three multifamily credits totaling $16.6 million at December 31, 2023.
At December 31, 2023, there were no commitments to lend additional funds to borrowers whose loans were classified as nonperforming.
LOAN MODIFICATIONS AND TROUBLED DEBT RESTRUCTURINGS:
On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU 2022-02, which replaced the accounting and recognition of TDRs. The Company will provide modifications, which may include other than insignificant delays in payment of amounts due, extension
of the terms of the notes or reduction in the interest rates on the notes. In certain instances, the Company may grant more than one type of modification.
The following table presents the modified loans, by collateral type, at December 31, 2023:
December 31,
Number of
(Dollars in thousands)
Relationships
Commercial and industrial
$
3,254
Total
$
3,254
The following table presents the troubled debt restructured loans, by collateral type, at December 31, 2022:
December 31,
Number of
(Dollars in thousands)
Relationships
Primary residential mortgage
$
1,366
Junior lien loan on residence
Investment commercial real estate
11,208
Commercial and industrial
1,729
Total
$
14,318
At December 31, 2023, there was one modified loan of $3.0 million included in nonaccrual loans. At December 31, 2022, there were $13.4 million of troubled debt restructured loans included in nonaccrual loans. At December 31, 2023, one modified loan of $3.0 million was included in the individually evaluated loans and had a specific reserve of $185,000. At December 31, 2022, $13.2 million troubled debt restructured loans were included in the individually evaluated loans and had specific reserves of $1.2 million.
Except as disclosed, the Company did not have any potential problem loans at December 31, 2023 or December 31, 2022 that caused Management to have serious doubts as to the ability of such borrowers to comply with the present loan repayment terms and which may result in disclosure of such loans.
Loans individually evaluated totaled $60.7 million and $16.7 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The increase was primarily due to the freight-related credit mentioned above. Individually evaluated loans include nonaccrual loans of $60.6 million and $15.8 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Individually evaluated loans included one modified loan at December 31, 2023, totaling $3.0 million. Individually evaluated loans included troubled debt restructured loans of $150,000 at December 31, 2022.
The following table presents individually evaluated loans, by collateral type, at December 31, 2023 and 2022:
December 31,
Number of
December 31,
Number of
(Dollars in thousands)
Relationships
Relationships
Primary residential mortgage
$
$
Junior lien loan on residence
-
-
Multifamily property
16,645
-
-
Investment commercial real estate
9,881
11,208
Commercial and industrial
31,430
3,385
Lease financing
2,002
1,765
Total
$
60,710
$
16,732
Specific reserves, included in the allowance for loan losses
$
4,538
$
1,507
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS: Leases represent obligations entered into by the Company for the use of land and premises. The leases generally have escalation terms based upon certain defined indexes. Common area maintenance charges may also apply and are adjusted annually based on the terms of the lease agreements. The Company adopted the guidance
in Topic 842 Leases effective January 1, 2019. See Note 1 to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
Purchase obligations represent legally binding and enforceable agreements to purchase goods and services from third parties and consist of contractual obligations under data processing service agreements. The Company also enters into various routine rental and maintenance contracts for facilities and equipment. These contracts are generally for one year.
The Company is a limited partner in a Small Business Investment Company (“SBIC”). As of December 31, 2023, the Company had unfunded commitments of $10.3 million for its investment in SBIC qualified funds.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS: The following table shows the amounts and expected maturities of significant commitments, consisting primarily of letters of credit, as of December 31, 2023.
Less Than
More Than
(In thousands)
One Year
1-3 Years
3-5 Years
5 Years
Total
Financial letters of credit
$
12,341
$
3,947
$
$
-
$
16,621
Performance letters of credit
3,149
3,574
-
-
6,723
Interest rate lock commitments-residential mortgages
6,746
-
-
-
6,746
Total letters of credit
$
22,236
$
7,521
$
$
-
$
30,090
Commitments under standby letters of credit, both financial and performance, do not necessarily represent future cash requirements, in that these commitments often expire without being drawn upon.
OTHER INCOME: The following table presents the major components of other income (excluding income from our wealth management operations, which is discussed separately):
Years Ended December 31,
Change
(In thousands)
2023 vs 2022
2022 vs 2021
Service charges and fees
$
5,152
$
4,225
$
3,697
$
$
Bank owned life insurance
1,269
1,243
1,696
(453
)
Loan fee income
7,429
4,759
1,646
2,670
3,113
Gains on loans held for sale at fair
value (mortgage banking)
2,194
(392
)
(1,711
)
Loss on securities sale, net
-
(6,609
)
-
6,609
(6,609
)
Fair value adjustment for CRA equity security
(1,700
)
(432
)
1,881
(1,268
)
Fee income related to loan level,
back-to-back swaps
-
-
(293
)
Gains on loans held for sale at
lower of cost or fair value
-
-
1,142
-
(1,142
)
Gain on sale of SBA loans
2,433
6,765
4,939
(4,332
)
1,826
Corporate advisory fee income
1,704
3,483
(1,485
)
(1,779
)
Loss on swap termination
-
-
(842
)
-
Other income
1,057
1,733
(1,130
)
Total other income
$
17,831
$
11,766
$
19,256
$
6,065
$
(7,490
)
2023 compared to 2022
The Company recorded total other income, excluding wealth management fee income, of $17.8 million in 2023, compared to $18.4 million for 2022 (when excluding the $6.6 million loss on sale of securities executed in 2022), reflecting a decrease of $544,000.
The Company provides loans that are partially guaranteed by the SBA, to provide working capital and/or finance the purchase of equipment, inventory or commercial real estate and that could be used for start-up business. All SBA loans are underwritten and documented as prescribed by the SBA. The Company generally sells the guaranteed portion of the SBA loans in the secondary market, with the non-guaranteed portion of SBA loans held in the loan portfolio. Gain on sale of SBA loans for 2023 decreased by $4.3 million to $2.4 million for 2023 compared to $6.8 million in 2022. The 2023 period was negatively affected by both market volatility and the higher interest rate environment, which has resulted in lower sale premiums combined with lower origination volumes.
The Company recorded corporate advisory fee income of $219,000 for 2023 compared to $1.7 million for 2022. 2022 included one major corporate advisory/investment banking acquisition transaction.
The Company recorded no fees related to loan level, back-to-back swaps in 2023 compared to $293,000 of fee income for 2022. The program provides a borrower with a degree of interest rate protection on a variable-rate loan, while still providing an adjustable rate to the Company, thus helping to manage the Company’s interest rate risk, while contributing to income. The Company expects back-to-back swap activity will continue to be minimal in the current rate environment.
Income from the back-to-back swap, corporate advisory fee income and SBA programs are dependent on volume, and thus are not linear from year to year, as some years will be higher or lower than others.
Income from the sale of newly originated residential mortgages loans for 2023 decreased to $91,000 from $483,000 for the year ended December 31, 2022. This decrease was a result of the decreased volume of residential mortgage loans originated for sale due to a slowdown in refinance and home purchase activity in the current interest rate environment.
Loan fee income included $3.2 million of unused commercial credit line fees in 2023 compared to $2.2 million for 2022. Additionally, the Company recorded $3.0 million of income generated by the Equipment Finance Division related to equipment transfers to lessees in 2023 compared to $1.3 million for the same 2022 period.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded a $181,000 positive fair value adjustment for CRA equity securities compared to a negative $1.7 million for 2022. The decrease in the negative fair value adjustment was due to the underlying assets being tied to medium-term investments which increased slightly in 2023 compared to 2022.
The year ended December 31, 2022 included a gain on sale of property of $275,000 associated with the closing of retail branches.
Other income for 2022 included a $6.6 million loss on the sale of securities due to the Company's balance sheet repositioning in the first quarter of 2022, which resulted in the sale of lower-yielding securities and replacing them with higher-yielding like duration multifamily loans.
OPERATING EXPENSES: The following table presents the major components of operating expenses:
Years Ended December 31,
Change
(In thousands)
2023 vs 2022
2022 vs 2021
Compensation and employee benefits
$
100,524
$
89,476
$
81,864
$
11,048
$
7,612
Premises and equipment
19,733
18,719
17,165
1,014
1,554
FDIC assessment
2,946
1,939
2,071
1,007
(132
)
Other operating expenses:
Professional and legal fees
5,710
5,062
5,343
(281
)
Telephone
1,531
1,460
1,323
Advertising
1,872
1,882
1,288
(10
)
Amortization of intangible assets
1,320
1,569
1,598
(249
)
(29
)
Branch restructure
(27
)
Swap valuation allowance
-
2,243
(673
)
(1,570
)
Write-off of subordinated debt costs
-
-
-
(648
)
Other operating expenses
14,094
12,819
12,396
1,275
Total operating expense
$
148,295
$
133,800
$
126,167
$
14,495
$
7,633
2023 compared to 2022
Operating expenses totaled $148.3 million in 2023, compared to $133.8 million in 2022, reflecting an increase of $14.5 million, or 11 percent. Increased operating expenses in 2023 were principally attributable to: an increase in compensation and employee benefits of $11.0 million which includes six months of expenses related to the previously announced expansion into New York City; increased corporate and health insurance costs; hiring in line with the Company’s strategic plan, which included an increase in full-time equivalent employees from 489 at December 31, 2022 to 509 at December 31, 2023, and normal annual merit increases; an increase in FDIC assessment expense of $1.0 million primarily due to an increase in the assessment rate; $409,000 of restricted stock expense associated with additional shares being granted to executives due to performance measures exceeding peers; and $2.0 million of expense associated with the retirement of certain employees in 2023 while 2022 included $200,000 of similar expense. Additionally, 2023 included $350,000 of severance expense associated with certain staff reorganizations within several areas of the bank compared to $1.5 million in 2022. 2023 included $565,000 of expense associated with the closure of retail branches as compared to $201,000 for 2022. The Company recorded swap valuation expense of $673,000 in 2022.
INCOME TAXES: Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $18.4 million as compared to $28.1 million for 2022. The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023 was 27.39 percent as compared to 27.45 percent for the year ended December 31, 2022.
CAPITAL RESOURCES: A solid capital base provides the Company with financial strength and the ability to support future growth and is essential to executing the Company’s Strategic Plan. The Company’s capital strategy is intended to provide stability to expand its businesses, even in stressed environments. The Company employs quarterly capital stress testing - adverse case and severely adverse case. In the most recent completed stress test on September 30, 2023, under severely adverse case, no growth scenarios, the Bank remains well capitalized over a two-year stress period.
The Company strives to maintain capital levels in excess of internal “triggers” and in excess of those considered to be well capitalized under regulatory guidelines applicable to banks and bank holding companies. Maintaining an adequate capital position supports the Company’s goal of providing shareholders an attractive and stable long-term return on investment.
The Company’s capital position during 2023 was benefited by net income of $48.9 million which was partially offset by the purchase of $12.5 million of common shares under the Company’s stock repurchase program. The change in accumulated other comprehensive losses was $9.3 million, driven by an $11.1 million loss related to the available for sale portfolio and a $1.8 million gain on cash flow hedges.
At December 31, 2023, the Company’s GAAP capital as a percent of total assets was 9.01 percent. At December 31, 2023, the Company’s regulatory leverage, common equity tier 1, tier 1 and total risk-based capital ratios were 9.19 percent, 11.43 percent, 11.43 percent and 14.95 percent, respectively. At December 31, 2023, the Bank’s regulatory leverage, common equity tier 1, tier 1 and total risk-based capital ratios were 10.83 percent, 13.47 percent, 13.48 percent and 14.73 percent, respectively. The Company’s and the Bank’s regulatory capital ratios are all above the ratios to be considered well capitalized under regulatory guidance.
As a result of the enacted Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, the federal banking agencies were required to develop a “Community Bank Leverage Ratio” (the ratio of a bank’s tangible equity capital to average total consolidated assets) for financial institutions with assets of less than $10 billion. A “qualifying community bank” that exceeds this ratio will be deemed to be in compliance with all other capital and leverage requirements, including the capital requirements to be considered “well capitalized” under Prompt Corrective Action statutes. The federal banking agencies set the minimum capital for the new Community Bank Leverage Ratio at 9 percent. The Bank did not opt into the CBLR and will continue to comply with the requirements under Basel III.
To be categorized as well capitalized, the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I risk-based, common equity Tier I and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table.
The Bank’s regulatory capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:
To Be Well
For Capital
Capitalized Under
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
Prompt Corrective
Adequacy
Including Capital
Actual
Action Provisions
Purposes
Conservation Buffer (A)
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
As of December 31, 2023:
Total capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
773,083
14.73
%
$
525,001
10.00
%
$
420,001
8.00
%
$
551,251
10.50
%
Tier I capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
707,446
13.48
420,001
8.00
315,000
6.00
446,251
8.50
Common equity tier I
(to risk-weighted assets)
707,434
13.47
341,250
6.50
236,250
4.50
367,500
7.00
Tier I capital
(to average assets)
707,446
10.83
326,507
5.00
261,205
4.00
261,205
4.00
As of December 31, 2022:
Total capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
$
741,719
14.67
%
$
505,760
10.00
%
$
404,608
8.00
%
$
531,048
10.50
%
Tier I capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
680,137
13.45
404,608
8.00
303,456
6.00
429,896
8.50
Common equity tier I
(to risk-weighted assets)
680,119
13.45
328,744
6.50
227,592
4.50
354,032
7.00
Tier I capital
(to average assets)
680,137
10.85
313,328
5.00
250,662
4.00
250,662
4.00
The Company’s regulatory capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:
To Be Well
For Capital
Capitalized Under
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
Prompt Corrective
Adequacy
Including Capital
Actual
Action Provisions
Purposes
Conservation Buffer (A)
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
As of December 31, 2023:
Total capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
785,413
14.95
%
N/A
N/A
$
420,377
8.00
%
$
551,745
10.50
%
Tier I capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
600,444
11.43
N/A
N/A
315,283
6.00
446,651
8.50
Common equity tier I
(to risk-weighted assets)
600,432
11.43
N/A
N/A
236,462
4.50
367,830
7.00
Tier I capital
(to average assets)
600,444
9.19
N/A
N/A
261,358
4.00
261,358
4.00
As of December 31, 2022:
Total capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
$
745,197
14.73
%
N/A
N/A
$
404,830
8.00
%
$
531,340
10.50
%
Tier I capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
557,627
11.02
N/A
N/A
303,623
6.00
430,132
8.50
Common equity tier I
(to risk-weighted assets)
557,609
11.02
N/A
N/A
227,717
4.50
354,227
7.00
Tier I capital
(to average assets)
557,627
8.90
N/A
N/A
250,746
4.00
250,746
4.00
(A) The Basel Rules require the Company and the Bank to maintain a 2.5 percent “capital conservation buffer” on top of the minimum risk-weighted asset ratios. The capital conservation buffer is designed to absorb losses during periods of economic stress. Banking institutions with a ratio of (i) CET1 to risk-weighted assets, (ii) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets or (iii) total capital to risk-weighted assets above the respective minimum but below the capital conservation buffer face constraints on dividends, equity repurchases and discretionary bonus payments to executive officers based on the amount of the shortfall.
The Dividend Reinvestment Plan of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation, or the “Reinvestment Plan,” allows shareholders of the Company to purchase shares of common stock using cash dividends without payment of any brokerage commissions or other charges. Shareholders may also make voluntary cash payments of up to $200,000 per quarter to purchase shares of common stock. Voluntary share purchases in the “Reinvestment Plan” can be filled from the Company’s authorized but unissued shares and/or in the open market, at the discretion of the Company. All shares purchased through the Plan in both 2023 and 2022 were purchased in the open market.
Management believes the Company’s capital position and capital ratios are adequate. Further, Management believes the Company has sufficient common equity to support its planned growth for the immediate future. The Company continually assesses other potential sources of capital to support future growth.
LIQUIDITY: Liquidity refers to an institution’s ability to meet short-term requirements including funding of loans, deposit withdrawals and maturing obligations, as well as long-term obligations, including potential capital expenditures. The Company’s liquidity risk management is intended to ensure the Company has adequate funding and liquidity to support its assets across a range of market environments and conditions, including stressed conditions. Principal sources of liquidity include cash, temporary investments, securities available for sale, customer deposit inflows, loan repayments and secured borrowings. Other liquidity sources include loan sales and loan participations.
Management actively monitors and manages the Company’s liquidity position and believes it is sufficient to meet future needs. Cash and cash equivalents, including federal funds sold and interest-earning deposits, totaled $187.7 million at
December 31, 2023. In addition, the Company had $550.6 million in securities designated as available for sale at December 31, 2023. These securities can be sold, or used as collateral for borrowings, in response to liquidity concerns. Available for sale and held to maturity securities with a carrying value of $434.6 million and $98.0 million as of December 31, 2023, respectively, were pledged to secure public funds and for other purposes required or permitted by law. However, only $47.9 million of pledged securities are encumbered. In addition, the Company generates significant liquidity from scheduled and unscheduled principal repayments of loans and mortgage-backed securities.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had approximately $2.7 billion of external borrowing capacity available on a same day basis (subject to any practical constraints affecting the FHLB or FRB), which when combined with balance sheet liquidity provided the Company with 297 percent coverage of our uninsured/unprotected deposits.
Brokered interest-bearing demand (“overnight”) deposits decreased $50.0 million to $10.0 million at December 31, 2023. The interest rate paid on these deposits allows the Bank to fund operations at attractive rates and engage in interest rate swaps to hedge its asset-liability interest rate risk. The Company ensures ample available collateralized liquidity as a backup to these short-term brokered deposits. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has transacted pay fixed, receive floating interest rate swaps totaling $310.0 million in notional amount.
The Company shifted from brokered interest-bearing demand deposits into brokered certificates of deposits during the year ended December 31, 2023. Total brokered certificates of deposits increased by $94.5 million to $120.5 million at December 31, 2023 to enhance short-term liquidity at more attractive rates than FHLB overnight borrowings.
The Company has a Board-approved Contingency Funding Plan. This plan provides a framework for managing adverse liquidity stress and contingent sources of liquidity. The Company conducts liquidity stress testing on a regular basis to ensure sufficient liquidity in a stressed environment. The Company believes it has sufficient liquidity given the current environment.
Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation is a separate legal entity from the Bank and must provide for its own liquidity to pay dividends to its shareholders, to repurchase shares of its common stock, and for other corporate purposes. Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation’s primary source of income is dividends received from the Bank. The Bank’s ability to pay dividends is governed by applicable law. At December 31, 2023, Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation (unconsolidated basis) had liquid assets of $22.6 million.
Management believes the Company’s liquidity position and sources were adequate at December 31, 2023.
EFFECTS OF INFLATION AND CHANGING PRICES: The financial statements and related financial data presented herein have been prepared in terms of historical dollars without considering changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. Unlike most industrial companies, virtually all of the assets and liabilities of a financial institution are monetary in nature. As a result, interest rates have a more significant impact on a financial institution’s performance than do general levels of inflation.
PEAPACK PRIVATE: This division includes: investment management services provided for individuals and institutions; personal trust services, including services as executor, trustee, administrator, custodian and guardian, and other financial planning, tax preparation and advisory services. Officers from Peapack Private are available to provide wealth management, trust and investment services at the Bank’s headquarters in Bedminster, New Jersey at private banking locations in
Morristown, Princeton, Red Bank, Summit and Teaneck, New Jersey and at the Bank’s subsidiary, PGB Trust & Investments of Delaware in Greenville, Delaware.
The following table presents certain key aspects of Peapack Private’s performance for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Years Ended December 31,
Change
(In thousands)
2023 vs 2022
2022 vs 2021
Total fee income
$
55,747
$
54,651
$
52,987
$
1,096
$
1,664
Compensation and benefits (included in
Operating Expenses section above)
29,425
27,501
24,894
1,924
2,607
Other operating expense (included in
Operating Expenses section above)
11,876
13,021
13,020
(1,145
)
Assets under management and/or
administration (AUM) (market value)
10.9 billion
9.9 billion
11.1 billion
2023 compared to 2022
The market value of assets under management and/or administration (“AUM”) at December 31, 2023 and 2022 was $10.9 billion and $9.9 billion, respectively, an increase of 10 percent, primarily due to an improved equity market and net business inflows. This includes assets held at the Bank at December 31, 2023 and 2022 of $291.7 million and $372.5 million, respectively.
Peapack Private management fees increased $1.1 million, or 2 percent, to $55.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 from $54.7 million in 2022.
Peapack Private expenses increased to $41.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 from $40.5 million for 2022, an increase of $779,000, or 2 percent. Compensation and benefits expense totaled $29.4 million and $27.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, increasing $1.9 million or 7 percent.
Operating expenses relative to Peapack Private reflected increases due to overall growth in the business, new hires and increased healthcare costs. Remaining expenses are in line with the Company’s Strategic Plan, particularly the hiring of key management and revenue-producing personnel.
Peapack Private currently generates adequate revenue to support the salaries, benefits and other expenses of the wealth division and Management believes it will continue to do so as the Company grows organically and/or by acquisition. Management believes that the Bank generates adequate liquidity to support the expenses of Peapack Private should it be necessary.

---

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Item 7A.	QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company’s Asset/Liability Committee (“ALCO”) is responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring asset/liability management strategies and advising the Board of Directors on such strategies, as well as the related level of interest rate risk. In this regard, interest rate risk simulation models are prepared on a quarterly basis. These models demonstrate balance sheet gaps and predict changes to net interest income and economic/market value of portfolio equity under various interest rate scenarios. In addition, these models, as well as ALCO processes and reporting, are subject to annual independent third-party review.
ALCO generally manages interest rate risk through the management of capital, cash flows and the duration of assets and liabilities, including sales and purchases of assets, as well as additions of wholesale borrowings and other sources of medium/longer-term funding. ALCO engages in interest rate swaps as a means of extending the duration of shorter-term liabilities.
The following strategies are among those used to manage interest rate risk:
•Actively market C&I loans, which tend to have adjustable-rate features, and which generate customer relationships that can result in higher core deposit accounts;
•Actively market equipment finance leases and loans, which tend to have shorter terms and higher interest rates than real estate loans;
•Limit residential mortgage portfolio originations to adjustable-rate and/or shorter-term and/or “relationship” loans that result in core deposit and/or wealth management relationships;
•Actively market core deposit relationships, which are generally longer duration liabilities;
•Utilize medium-to-longer term certificates of deposit and/or wholesale borrowings to extend liability duration;
•Utilize interest rate swaps to extend liability duration;
•Utilize a loan level / back-to-back interest rate swap program, which converts a borrower’s fixed rate loan to adjustable rate for the Company;
•Closely monitor and actively manage the investment portfolio, including management of duration, prepayment and interest rate risk;
•Maintain adequate levels of capital; and
•Utilize loan sales.
The interest rate swap program is administered by ALCO and follows procedures and documentation in accordance with regulatory guidance and standards as set forth in ASC 815 for cash flow hedges. The program incorporates pre-purchase analysis, liability designation, sensitivity analysis, correlation analysis, daily mark-to-market analysis and collateral posting as required. The Board is advised of all swap activity. In these swaps, the Company is receiving floating and paying fixed interest rates with total notional value of $310.0 million as of December 31, 2023.
In addition, the Company initiated a loan level / back-to-back swap program in support of its commercial lending business. Pursuant to this program, the Company extends a floating-rate loan and executes a floating to fixed swap with the borrower. At the same time, the Company executes a third-party swap, the terms of which fully offset the fixed exposure and, result in a final floating-rate exposure for the Company. As of December 31, 2023, $546.0 million of notional value in swaps were executed and outstanding with borrowers under this program.
As noted above, ALCO uses simulation modeling to analyze the Company’s net interest income sensitivity, as well as the Company’s economic value of portfolio equity under various interest rate scenarios. The models are based on the actual maturity and repricing characteristics of rate sensitive assets and liabilities. The models incorporate certain prepayment and interest rate assumptions, which management believes to be reasonable as of December 31, 2023. The models assume changes in interest rates without any proactive change in the balance sheet by management. In the models, the forecasted shape of the yield curve remained static as of December 31, 2023.
In an immediate and sustained 100 basis point increase in market rates at December 31, 2023, net interest income would decrease approximately 2.1 percent for year 1 and increase 0.2 percent for year 2, compared to a flat interest rate scenario. In an immediate and sustained 100 basis point decrease in market rates at December 31, 2023, net interest income would increase approximately 2.2 percent for year 1 and decrease 1.4 percent for year 2, compared to a flat interest rate scenario.
In an immediate and sustained 200 basis point increase in market rates at December 31, 2023, net interest income would decrease approximately 3.9 percent for year 1 and increase 0.3 percent for year 2, compared to a flat interest rate scenario. In an immediate and sustained 200 basis point decrease in market rates at December 31, 2023, net interest income for year 1 would increase approximately 3.3 percent, when compared to a flat interest rate scenario. In year 2, net interest income would decrease 2.6 percent, when compared to a flat interest rate scenario.
The Company's interest rate sensitivity models indicate the Company is liability sensitive as of December 31, 2023 and that net interest income would improve in a falling rate environment, but decline in a rising rate environment.
The table below shows the estimated changes in the Company’s economic value of portfolio equity (“EVPE”) that would result from an immediate parallel change in the market interest rates at December 31, 2023.
Estimated Increase/
EVPE as a Percentage of
(Dollars in thousands)
Decrease in EVPE
Present Value of Assets (2)
Change In
Interest
Rates
Estimated
EVPE
Increase/(Decrease)
(Basis Points)
EVPE (1)
Amount
Percent
Ratio (3)
(basis points)
+200
$
563,671
$
(69,269
)
(10.94
)%
9.50
%
(72
)
+100
595,247
(37,693
)
(5.96
)
9.83
(39
)
Flat interest rates
632,940
-
-
10.22
-
685,760
52,820
8.35
10.80
689,888
56,948
9.00
10.67
(1)EVPE is the discounted present value of expected cash flows from assets and liabilities.
(2)Present value of assets represents the discounted present value of incoming cash flows on interest-earning assets.
(3)EVPE ratio represents EVPE divided by the present value of assets.
Certain shortcomings are inherent in the methodologies used in determining interest rate risk. Simulation modeling requires making certain assumptions that may or may not reflect the manner in which actual yields and costs respond to changes in market interest rates. In this regard, the modeling assumes that the composition of our interest-sensitive assets and liabilities existing at the beginning of a period remains constant over the period being measured and assumes that a particular change in interest rates is reflected uniformly across the yield curve regardless of the duration or repricing of specific assets and liabilities. Accordingly, although the information provides an indication of our interest rate risk exposure at a particular point in time, such measurements are not intended to and do not provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes in market interest rates on our net interest income and will differ from actual results.

---

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Item 8.	FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation
Bedminster, New Jersey
Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of condition of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation (the "Company") as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework: (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2023 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework: (2013) issued by COSO.
Explanatory Paragraph - Change in Accounting Principle
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has changed its method of accounting for credit losses effective January 1, 2022 due to the adoption of ASC 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses.
Basis for Opinions
The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting 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 audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the 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 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 financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s 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. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) 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 being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) 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.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (i) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved 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 matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Allowance for Credit Losses - Qualitative Factors
As described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company accounts for credit losses under ASC 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses. ASC 326 requires the measurement of expected lifetime credit losses for financial assets measured at amortized cost at the reporting date. As of December 31, 2023, the balance of the allowance for credit losses on loans was $65.9 million.
Management employs a process and methodology to estimate the ACL on pooled loans that evaluated both the quantitative and qualitative factors. The methodology for evaluating quantitative factors includes pooling loans into portfolio segments for loans that share common characteristics.
For pooled loans, the Company utilizes a discounted cash flow (“DCF”) methodology to estimate credit losses. The DCF Model captures losses over the historical charge-off and prepayment cycle and applies those losses at a loan level over the remaining maturity of the loan. The model then calculates a historical loss rate using the average losses over the reporting period, which is then applied to each segment utilizing a standard reversion rate.
This loss rate is then supplemented with adjustments for reasonable and supportable forecasts of relevant economic indicators. Also included in the ACL are qualitative factors based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These qualitative factors include the following: levels of and trends in delinquencies and impaired loans; effects of any changes in risk selection and underwriting standards; other changes in lending policies, procedures and practices; experience, ability and depth of lending management and other relevant staffing and experience; industry conditions; and effects of changes in credit concentrations. These factors are susceptible to change, which may be significant.
We identified auditing the qualitative component of the ACL on pooled loans in the commercial and industrial, multifamily, and investment commercial real estate loan segments as a critical audit matter because the methodology to determine the estimate of credit losses uses a significant amount of management judgment and is subject to material variability. Performing audit procedures to evaluate the qualitative factors on the commercial and industrial, multifamily, and investment commercial real estate loan segments involved a high degree of auditor judgment and required significant effort, including the need to involve more experienced audit personnel including the use of internal specialists.
The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included:
•Testing the effectiveness of controls over the evaluation of the ACL on pooled loans, including controls addressing:
oMethodology and accounting policies.
oData inputs, judgments and calculations used to determine the qualitative factors.
oInformation technology general controls and application controls.
oManagement’s review of the qualitative factors.
•Substantively testing management’s process, including evaluating their judgments and assumptions, for developing the ACL on loans collectively evaluated for impairment, which included:
oEvaluation of the appropriateness of the Company’s methodology and accounting policies involved in the application of ASC 326.
oTesting the mathematical accuracy of the calculation.
oTesting the completeness and accuracy of data used in the calculation including utilizing internal specialists to assist in testing the accuracy of the underlying peer data used to develop the maximum loss factors.
oEvaluation of the reasonableness of management’s judgments related to qualitative factors to determine if they are calculated to conform with management’s policies and were consistently applied period over period. Our evaluation considered evidence from internal and external sources and loan portfolio composition and performance.
/s/ Crowe LLP
Crowe LLP
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2006.
Livingston, New Jersey
March 12, 2024
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONDITION
December 31,
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks
$
5,887
$
5,937
Federal funds sold
-
-
Interest-earning deposits
181,784
184,138
Total cash and cash equivalents
187,671
190,075
Securities held to maturity (fair value $94,415 at December 31, 2023 and $87,187 at December 31, 2022)
107,755
102,291
Securities available for sale
550,617
554,648
CRA equity security, at fair value
13,166
12,985
FHLB and FRB stock, at cost (1)
31,044
30,672
Loans held for sale, at fair value
-
Loans held for sale, at lower of cost or fair value
6,695
15,626
Loans
5,429,325
5,285,246
Less: allowance for credit losses
65,888
60,829
Net loans
5,363,437
5,224,417
Premises and equipment
24,166
23,831
Other real estate owned
-
Accrued interest receivable
30,676
25,157
Bank owned life insurance
47,581
47,147
Goodwill
36,212
36,212
Other intangible assets
9,802
11,121
Finance lease right-of-use assets
2,087
2,835
Operating lease right-of-use assets
12,096
12,873
Deferred tax assets, net
-
Other assets
53,247
63,587
Total assets
$
6,476,857
$
6,353,593
LIABILITIES
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits
$
957,687
$
1,246,066
Interest-bearing deposits:
Checking
2,882,193
2,143,611
Savings
111,573
157,338
Money market accounts
740,559
1,228,234
Certificates of deposit - retail
443,791
318,573
Certificates of deposit - listing service
7,804
25,358
Subtotal deposits
5,143,607
5,119,180
Interest-bearing demand - Brokered
10,000
60,000
Certificates of deposit - Brokered
120,507
25,984
Total deposits
5,274,114
5,205,164
Short-term borrowings
403,814
379,530
Finance lease liabilities
3,430
4,696
Operating lease liabilities
12,876
13,704
Subordinated debt, net
133,274
132,987
Deferred tax liabilities, net
-
15,432
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
65,668
69,100
Total liabilities
5,893,176
5,820,613
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred stock (no par value; authorized 500,000 shares)
-
-
Common stock (no par value; stated value $0.83 per share; authorized
42,000,000 shares; issued shares, 21,388,917 at December 31, 2023 and
21,007,350 at December 31, 2022; outstanding shares, 17,739,677 at
December 31, 2023 and 17,813,451 at December 31, 2022)
17,831
17,513
Surplus
346,954
338,706
Treasury stock at cost (3,649,240 shares at December 31, 2023 and
3,193,899 shares at December 31, 2022)
(110,320
)
(97,826
)
Retained earnings
394,094
348,798
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(64,878
)
(74,211
)
Total shareholders’ equity
583,681
532,980
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
6,476,857
$
6,353,593
(1) FHLB means "Federal Home Loan Bank" and FRB means "Federal Reserve Bank."
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands, except per share data)
INTEREST INCOME
Loans, including fees
$
278,170
$
195,197
$
147,814
Taxable securities
19,743
13,854
11,577
Tax-exempt securities
Interest-earning deposits
6,075
2,763
Total interest income
304,010
211,875
160,067
INTEREST EXPENSE
Savings and interest-bearing deposit accounts
107,490
24,000
7,383
Certificates of deposit
11,736
2,970
4,058
Borrowed funds
18,204
Finance lease liability
Subordinated debt
6,651
5,453
7,013
Subtotal - interest expense
144,272
33,274
19,227
Interest-bearing demand - brokered
1,579
1,721
Interest on certificates of deposits - brokered
3,038
1,058
Total interest expense
147,921
35,795
22,006
Net interest income before provision for credit losses
156,089
176,080
138,061
Provision for credit losses (1)
14,091
6,353
6,475
Net interest income after provision for credit losses
141,998
169,727
131,586
OTHER INCOME
Wealth management fee income
55,747
54,651
52,987
Service charges and fees
5,152
4,225
3,697
Bank owned life insurance
1,269
1,243
1,696
Gain on loans held for sale at fair value (mortgage banking)
2,194
Gain on loans held for sale at lower of cost or fair value
-
-
1,142
Fee income related to loan level, back-to-back swaps
-
-
Gain on sale of SBA loans
2,433
6,765
4,939
Corporate advisory fee income
1,704
3,483
Loss on swap termination
-
-
(842
)
Other income
8,486
5,362
3,379
Loss on securities sale, net
-
(6,609
)
-
Fair value adjustment for CRA equity security
(1,700
)
(432
)
Total other income
73,578
66,417
72,243
OPERATING EXPENSES
Compensation and employee benefits
100,524
89,476
81,864
Premises and equipment
19,733
18,719
17,165
FDIC insurance expense
2,946
1,939
2,071
Swap valuation allowance
-
2,243
Other operating expenses
25,092
22,993
22,824
Total operating expenses
148,295
133,800
126,167
Income before income tax expense
67,281
102,344
77,662
Income tax expense
18,427
28,098
21,040
Net income
$
48,854
$
74,246
$
56,622
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic
$
2.74
$
4.09
$
3.01
Diluted
2.71
4.00
2.93
(1) Commencing on January 1, 2022, the allowance calculation is based on the current expected credit loss ("CECL") methodology. Prior to January 1, 2022, the calculation was based on the incurred loss methodology.
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands)
Net income
$
48,854
$
74,246
$
56,622
Other comprehensive income/(loss):
Unrealized gains/(losses) on available for sale securities:
Unrealized gains/(losses) arising during the period
11,179
(100,072
)
(20,227
)
Reclassification adjustment for amounts
included in net income
-
6,609
-
11,179
(93,463
)
(20,227
)
Tax effect
(16
)
22,364
4,833
Net of tax
11,163
(71,099
)
(15,394
)
Unrealized gains/(losses) on cash flow hedge
Unrealized holding gains/(losses)
(2,391
)
12,884
5,295
Reclassification adjustment for amounts
included in net income
(84
)
(116
)
(2,475
)
12,768
6,137
Tax effect
(3,506
)
(1,725
)
Net of tax
(1,830
)
9,262
4,412
Total other comprehensive income/(loss)
9,333
(61,837
)
(10,982
)
Total comprehensive income
$
58,187
$
12,409
$
45,640
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Accumulated Other
Preferred
Common
Treasury
Retained
Comprehensive
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
Stock
Stock
Surplus
Stock
Earnings
Income/(Loss)
Total
Balance at January 1, 2021
18,974,703 common shares outstanding
$
-
$
16,958
$
326,592
$
(36,477
)
$
221,441
$
(1,392
)
$
527,122
Net income 2021
-
-
-
-
56,622
-
56,622
Other comprehensive loss
-
-
-
-
-
(10,982
)
(10,982
)
Restricted stock units issued 301,626 shares
-
(251
)
-
-
-
-
Restricted stock units/awards repurchased on
vesting to pay taxes, (76,187) shares
-
(63
)
(2,317
)
-
-
-
(2,380
)
Amortization of restricted stock awards/units
-
-
7,055
-
-
-
7,055
Cash dividends declared on common stock
($0.20 per share)
-
-
-
-
(3,775
)
-
(3,775
)
Shares repurchase, (894,744) shares
-
-
-
(28,627
)
-
-
(28,627
)
Common stock options exercised, 16,640
net of 258 used to exercise and related
taxes benefits, 16,382 shares
-
-
-
-
Exercise of warrants, 60,000 net of 38,566
shares used to exercise, 21,434 shares
-
(18
)
-
-
-
-
Issuance of shares for Employee Stock
Purchase plan, 26,693 shares
-
-
-
-
Issuance of common stock for
acquisition, 23,981 shares
-
-
-
-
Balance at December 31, 2021
18,393,888 common shares outstanding
$
-
$
17,220
$
332,358
$
(65,104
)
$
274,288
$
(12,374
)
$
546,388
Balance at January 1, 2022
$
-
$
17,220
$
332,358
$
(65,104
)
$
274,288
$
(12,374
)
$
546,388
Cumulative effect adjustment for adoption of
ASU 2016-13
-
-
-
-
3,909
-
3,909
Balance at January 1, 2022, adjusted
-
17,220
332,358
(65,104
)
278,197
(12,374
)
550,297
Net income 2022
-
-
-
-
74,246
-
74,246
Other comprehensive loss
-
-
-
-
-
(61,837
)
(61,837
)
Restricted stock units issued 347,623 shares
-
(290
)
-
-
-
-
Restricted stock units/awards repurchased on
vesting to pay taxes, (80,400) shares
-
(67
)
(2,870
)
-
-
-
(2,937
)
Amortization of restricted stock units
-
-
8,382
-
-
-
8,382
Cash dividends declared on common stock
($0.20 per share)
-
-
-
-
(3,645
)
-
(3,645
)
Shares repurchase, (930,977) shares
-
-
-
(32,722
)
-
-
(32,722
)
Common stock options exercised, 23,640
net of 1,115 used to exercise and related
taxes benefits, 22,525 shares
-
-
-
-
Exercise of warrants, 49,860 net of 28,311
shares used to exercise, 21,549 shares
-
(18
)
-
-
-
-
Issuance of shares for Employee Stock
Purchase Plan, 25,023 shares
-
-
-
-
Issuance of common stock for
acquisition, 14,220 shares
-
(12
)
-
-
-
-
Balance at December 31, 2022
17,813,451 common shares outstanding
$
-
$
17,513
$
338,706
$
(97,826
)
$
348,798
$
(74,211
)
$
532,980
Accumulated Other
Preferred
Common
Treasury
Retained
Comprehensive
Stock
Stock
Surplus
Stock
Earnings
Income/(Loss)
Total
Balance at January 1, 2023
$
-
$
17,513
$
338,706
$
(97,826
)
$
348,798
$
(74,211
)
$
532,980
Net income 2023
-
-
-
-
48,854
-
48,854
Other comprehensive gain
-
-
-
-
-
9,333
9,333
Restricted stock units issued 434,000 shares
-
(362
)
-
-
-
-
Restricted stock units repurchased
on vesting to pay taxes, (107,918) shares
-
(90
)
(3,153
)
-
-
-
(3,243
)
Amortization of restricted stock units
-
-
10,751
-
-
-
10,751
Cash dividends declared on common
stock ($0.20 per share)
-
-
-
-
(3,558
)
-
(3,558
)
Shares repurchase, (455,341) shares
-
-
-
(12,494
)
-
-
(12,494
)
Common stock options exercised, 2,600
net of 60 used to exercise and related
taxes benefits, 2,540 shares
-
-
-
-
Issuance of shares for Employee Stock
Purchase Plan, 33,748 shares
-
-
-
-
1,016
Issuance of common stock for acquisition,
19,197 shares
-
(16
)
-
-
-
-
Balance at December 31, 2023
17,739,677 common shares outstanding
$
-
$
17,831
$
346,954
$
(110,320
)
$
394,094
$
(64,878
)
$
583,681
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands)
Operating activities:
Net income
$
48,854
$
74,246
$
56,622
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Depreciation
3,688
3,475
3,190
Amortization of premium and accretion of discount on
securities, net
2,665
5,817
Amortization of restricted stock
10,751
8,382
7,055
Amortization of intangible assets
1,319
1,569
1,598
Amortization of subordinated debt costs
1,003
Provision for credit losses (1)
14,091
6,353
6,475
Swap valuation allowance
-
2,243
Stock-based compensation and employee stock purchase
plan expense
Deferred tax (benefit)/expense
(15,276
)
(6,641
)
9,452
Fair value adjustment for equity security
(181
)
1,700
Loss on sale of securities, available for sale, net
-
6,609
-
Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale (2)
41,355
98,568
171,342
Loans originated for sale (2)
(30,000
)
(74,856
)
(176,759
)
Gain on loans held for sale (2)
(2,524
)
(7,248
)
(7,133
)
Gain on loans held for sale at lower of cost or fair value
-
-
(1,142
)
Gain on OREO sold
-
-
(51
)
Loss/(gain) on disposal of fixed assets
(275
)
-
Gain on life insurance death benefit
(41
)
(27
)
(455
)
Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance, net
(457
)
(532
)
(618
)
(Increase)/decrease in accrued interest receivable
(5,519
)
(3,568
)
(Increase)/decrease in other assets
(3,324
)
5,261
(4,866
)
Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities
6,295
2,116
Net cash provided by operating activities
70,080
118,901
75,463
Investing activities:
Principal repayments, maturities and calls of securities held
to maturity
4,803
6,286
Principal repayments, maturities and calls of securities available
for sale
633,737
440,668
453,427
Redemptions for FHLB & FRB stock
115,947
33,804
Sales of securities available for sale
-
118,972
-
Purchase of securities held to maturity
(10,347
)
-
(108,925
)
Purchase of securities available for sale
(619,025
)
(420,169
)
(653,524
)
Purchase of FHLB & FRB stock
(116,319
)
(51,526
)
(48
)
Proceeds from sale of loans held for sale at lower of cost or fair value
-
-
66,086
Net increase in loans, net of participations sold
(153,112
)
(480,862
)
(503,747
)
Sales of OREO
-
Purchases of premises and equipment
(3,275
)
(3,517
)
(3,928
)
Disposal of premises and equipment
(6
)
-
Purchase of wealth management company
-
-
(5,500
)
Proceeds from life insurance death benefit
-
-
1,219
Net cash used in investing activities
(147,481
)
(356,067
)
(753,798
)
Years Ended December 31,
Financing activities:
Net increase/(decrease) in deposits
68,950
(60,985
)
447,665
Net increase/(decrease) in short-term borrowings
24,284
379,530
-
Repayments of Paycheck Protection Program Liquidity Facility
-
-
(177,086
)
Repayments of FHLB advances
-
-
(15,000
)
Dividends paid on common stock
(3,558
)
(3,645
)
(3,775
)
Exercise of stock options, net of stock swaps
Restricted stock repurchased on vesting to pay taxes
(3,243
)
(2,937
)
(2,380
)
Issuance of restricted stock
-
-
-
Repayments of subordinated debt
-
-
(50,000
)
Issuance of shares for employee stock purchase plan
1,016
Shares repurchased
(12,494
)
(32,722
)
(28,627
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
74,997
280,437
171,817
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
(2,404
)
43,271
(506,518
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
190,075
146,804
653,322
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
187,671
$
190,075
$
146,804
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest
$
141,166
$
33,158
$
22,356
Income tax, net
18,474
25,002
16,079
Transfer of loans to loans held for sale
-
-
57,376
Transfer of loans to other real estate owned
-
-
Acquisitions (Note 21)
Goodwill
-
-
3,109
Customer relationship & other intangibles
-
-
3,500
(1)Commencing on January 1, 2022, the allowance calculation is based on the CECL methodology. Prior to January 1, 2022 the calculation was based on the incurred loss methodology.
(2)Includes mortgage loans originated with the intent to sell which are carried at fair value. In addition, includes the guaranteed portion of SBA loans which are carried at the lower of cost or fair value.
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation and Organization: The consolidated financial statements of the Company are prepared on the accrual basis and include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Peapack-Gladstone Bank (the “Bank”). The consolidated financial statements also include the Bank’s wholly-owned subsidiaries:
•Peapack Capital Corporation (“PCC”)
•Peapack-Gladstone Mortgage Group, Inc., which owns 99 percent of Peapack Ventures, LLC and 79 percent of Peapack-Gladstone Realty, Inc., a New Jersey real estate investment company
•PGB Trust & Investments of Delaware, which owns one percent of Peapack Ventures, LLC
•Peapack Ventures, LLC, which owns the remaining 21 percent of Peapack-Gladstone Realty, Inc.
•Peapack-Gladstone Realty, Inc.
•PGB Securities, Inc.
While the following footnotes include the collective results of the Company, the Bank and their subsidiaries, these footnotes primarily reflect the Bank’s and its subsidiaries’ activities. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated from the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Business: The Bank is a commercial bank that provides innovative private banking services to businesses, non-profits and consumers. Wealth management services are also provided through its subsidiary, PGB Trust & Investments of Delaware. The Bank is subject to competition from other financial institutions, is regulated by certain federal and state agencies and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities.
Basis of Financial Statement Presentation: The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. In preparing the financial statements, Management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and revenues and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the statement of condition. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Adoption of New Accounting Standards: On January 1, 2022, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326) ("ASU 2016-13"), which replaced the incurred loss methodology with an expected loss methodology that is referred to as the current expected credit loss ("CECL") methodology. The measurement of expected credit losses under the CECL methodology is applicable to financial assets measured at amortized cost, including loan and lease receivables and held-to-maturity debt securities. It also applies to off-balance sheet credit exposures not accounted for as insurance (loan commitments, standby letters of credit, financial guarantees, and other similar instruments). In addition, Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 326 made changes to the accounting for available-for-sale debt securities. One such change is to require credit losses to be presented as an allowance rather than as a write-down on available-for-sale debt securities Management does not intend to sell or believes that it is more likely than not they will be required to sell.
The Company adopted ASC 326 using the modified retrospective method for all financial assets measured at amortized cost and off-balance sheet commitments. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2022 are presented under ASC 326 while prior period amounts continue to be reported in accordance with the incurred loss model previously applicable under GAAP. The Company recorded a net increase to retained earnings of $3.9 million as of January 1, 2022 for the cumulative effect of adopting ASC 326. The transition adjustment includes a $5.5 million reduction to our allowance for credit losses. The lower allowance was in part attributed to historically low charge-offs combined with the shorter duration of the loan portfolio employed in our CECL analysis. Further, the incurred loss method required significant qualitative factors, including factors related to COVID-19, and the use of a multiplier for potential losses on criticized and classified loans, neither of which are included within the CECL methodology. The CECL methodology places significantly less reliance on qualitative factors as it uses economic factors and historical losses over a full economic cycle and calculates losses based on discounted cash flows on an individual loan basis. Accordingly, the CECL model quantitatively accounts for some of the qualitative factors utilized in the incurred loss methodology.
The following table illustrates the impact to our financial statements as of January 1, 2022 upon adoption of ASC 326:
January 1, 2022
(In thousands)
Impact to Consolidated Statement of Condition from ASC-326 Adoption
Tax Effect
Impact to Retained Earnings from ASC-326 Adoption
Allowance for credit losses on loans
$
5,536
$
(1,490
)
$
4,046
Allowance for credit losses on off-balance sheet commitments
(188
)
(137
)
Total impact from ASC 326 adoption
$
5,348
$
(1,439
)
$
3,909
Segment Information: The Company’s business is conducted through two business segments: (1) its banking segment (“Banking”), which involves the delivery of loan and deposit products to customers, and (2) Peapack Private, which includes asset management services provided for individuals and institutions. Management uses certain methodologies to allocate income and expense to the business segments.
The Banking segment includes: commercial (includes C&I and equipment financing), commercial real estate, multifamily, residential and consumer lending activities; treasury management services; C&I advisory services; escrow management; deposit generation; operation of ATMs; telephone and internet banking services; merchant credit card services and customer support sales.
Peapack Private includes: investment management services for individuals and institutions; personal trust services, including services as executor, trustee, administrator, custodian; and other financial planning and advisory services. This segment also includes the activity from the Delaware subsidiary, PGB Trust and Investments of Delaware. The majority of wealth management fees are collected on a monthly or quarterly basis and are calculated on either a fixed or tiered fee schedule, based upon the market value of assets under management and/or5 administration ("AUMs"). Other non AUM-based revenues such as personal or fiduciary tax return preparation fees, executor fees, trust termination fees and/or financial planning and advisory fees are charged as services are rendered.
Cash and Cash Equivalents: For purposes of the statements of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, interest-earning deposits and federal funds sold. Generally, federal funds are sold for one-day periods. Cash equivalents are of original maturities of 90 days or less. Net cash flows are reported for customer loan and deposit transactions and short-term borrowings with original maturities of 90 days or less.
Interest-Earning Deposits in Other Financial Institutions: Interest-earning deposits in other financial institutions mature within one year and are carried at cost.
Securities: Prior to January 1, 2022, Management evaluated securities for other-than-temporary impairment on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warranted. For securities in an unrealized loss position, Management considered the extent and duration of the unrealized loss and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. Management also assessed whether it intended to sell, or it is more likely than not that it was required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. For debt securities that did not meet the aforementioned criteria, the amount of impairment was split into two components as follows: (1) other-than-temporary impairment related to credit loss, which would be recognized through the income statement and (2) other-than-temporary impairment related to other factors, which would be recognized in other comprehensive income.
Effective January 1, 2022, upon the adoption of ASU 2016-13, debt securities available-for-sale are measured at fair value and subject to impairment testing. When an available-for-sale debt securities is considered impaired, the Company must determine if the decline in fair value has resulted from a credit-related loss or other factors and then, (1) recognize an allowance for credit losses ("ACL") by a charge to earnings for the credit-related component (if any) of the decline in fair value, and (2) recognize in other comprehensive income (loss) any non-credit related components of the fair value change. If the amount of the amortized cost basis expected to be recovered increases in a future period, the valuation reserve would be reduced, but not more than the amount of the current existing reserve for that security.
Debt securities are classified as held to maturity and carried at amortized cost when Management has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Under ASU 2016-13, held-to-maturity securities in a loss position are evaluated to determine if the decline in fair value has resulted from a credit-related loss or other factors and then, recognize an ACL through a charge to earnings for the decline in fair value. The Company also has an investment in a Community Reinvestment Act ("CRA") investment fund, which is classified as an equity security.
Interest income includes amortization of purchase premiums and discounts. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized on the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments, except for mortgage-backed securities where prepayments are anticipated and premiums on callable debt securities, which are amortized to the earliest call date. Gains and losses on sales are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method.
Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) and Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) Stock: The Bank is a member of the FHLB system. Members are required to own a certain amount of FHLB stock, based on the level of borrowings and other factors. FHLB stock is carried at cost, classified as a restricted security and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Dividends are reported as income.
The Bank is also a member of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and required to own a certain amount of FRB stock. FRB stock is carried at cost and classified as a restricted security. Dividends are reported as income.
Loans Held for Sale: Mortgage loans originated with the intent to sell in the secondary market are carried at fair value, as determined by outstanding commitments from investors.
Mortgage loans held for sale are generally sold with servicing rights released; therefore, no servicing rights are recorded. Gains and losses on sales of mortgage loans, shown as gain on sale of loans on the Statement of Income, are based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related loan sold.
SBA loans originated with the intent to sell in the secondary market are carried at the lower of cost or fair value. SBA loans are generally sold with the servicing rights retained. Gains and losses on the sale of SBA loans are based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related loan sold. Total SBA loans serviced totaled $162.9 million and $152.2 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. SBA loans held for sale totaled $7.2 million and $17.2 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The servicing asset recorded was not material.
Loans originated with the intent to hold and subsequently transferred to loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or fair value. These are loans that the Company no longer has the intent to hold for the foreseeable future.
Loans: Loans that Management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity are stated at the principal amount outstanding. Interest on loans is recognized based upon the principal amount outstanding. Loans are stated at face value, less purchased premium and discounts and net deferred fees. Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred and recognized on a level-yield method, over the life of the loan as an adjustment to the loan’s yield. The definition of recorded investment in loans includes accrued interest receivable and deferred fees/cost, however, for the Company’s loan disclosures, accrued interest and deferred fees/costs was excluded as the impact was not material.
Loans are considered past due when they are not paid within 30 days in accordance with contractual terms. The accrual of income on loans, including impaired loans, is discontinued if, in the opinion of Management, principal or interest is not likely to be paid in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement, or when principal or interest is past due 90 days or more. All interest accrued but not received for loans placed on nonaccrual are reversed against interest income. Payments received on nonaccrual loans are recorded as principal payments, but do not diminish the borrower’s obligation. A nonaccrual loan is returned to accrual status only when interest and principal payments are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured, generally after the Bank receives contractual payments for a minimum of six consecutive months. Commercial loans are generally charged off, in whole or in part, after an analysis is completed which indicates that collectability of the full principal balance is in doubt. Consumer loans are generally charged off after they become 120 days past due. Subsequent payments are credited to income only if collection of principal is not in doubt. If principal and interest payments are brought contractually current and future collectability is reasonably assured, loans are returned to accrual status. Nonaccrual mortgage loans are generally charged off when the value of the underlying collateral does not cover the outstanding principal balance. The majority of the Company’s loans are secured by real estate in New Jersey, metropolitan New York and, to a lesser extent, Pennsylvania.
Allowance for Credit Losses: On January 1, 2022, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13, Topic 326, which replaced the incurred loss methodology with CECL for financial instruments measured at amortized cost and other commitments to extend credit. CECL requires the immediate recognition of estimated credit losses expected to occur over the estimated remaining life of the asset. The forward-looking concept of CECL requires loss estimates to consider historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable economic forecasts.
The allowance for credit losses ("ACL") on loans held for investment is the combination of the allowance for loan losses and the reserve for unfunded loan commitments. The allowance for loan losses is reported as a reduction of the amortized cost basis of loans, while the reserve for unfunded loan commitments is included within "other liabilities" on the Consolidated Statements of Condition. The estimate of credit loss incorporates assumptions for both the likelihood and amount of funding over the estimated life of the commitments, including adjustments for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Management periodically reviews and updates its assumptions for estimated funding rates. The amortized cost basis of loans does not include accrued interest receivable, which is included in "accrued interest receivable" on the Consolidated Statements of Condition. The "Provision for credit losses" on the Consolidated Statements of Income is a combination of the provision for credit losses and the provision for unfunded loan commitments.
ACL in accordance with CECL methodology
With respect to pools of similar loans that are collectively evaluated, an appropriate level of allowance is determined by portfolio segment using a discounted cash flow ("DCF") model. The DCF model captures losses over the historical charge-off and prepayment cycle and applies those losses at a loan level over the remaining maturity of the loan. The model then calculates a historical loss rate using the average losses over the reporting period, which is then applied to each segment utilizing a standard reversion rate. This loss rate is then supplemented with adjustments for reasonable and supportable forecasts of relevant economic indicators, including but not limited to unemployment rates, national gross domestic product and other indices. Forecast data is sourced from Moody's Analytics, a firm widely recognized for its research, analysis, and economic forecasts. Expected credit losses are estimated over the contractual term of the loans, adjusted for expected prepayments when appropriate. Also included in the ACL are qualitative factors based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These qualitative factors include the following: levels of and trends in delinquencies and impaired loans; effects of any changes in risk selection and underwriting standards; other changes in lending policies, procedures and practices; experience, ability and depth of lending management and other relevant staffing and experience; industry conditions; and effects of changes in credit concentrations. It is also possible that these factors could include social, political, economic, and terrorist events or activities. All of these factors are susceptible to change, which may be significant. As a result of this detailed process, the ACL results in two forms of allocations, quantitative and qualitative. These two components represent the total ACL deemed adequate to cover current expected credit losses in the loan portfolio.
When management identifies loans that do not share common risk characteristics (i.e., are not similar to other loans within a pool) they are evaluated on an individual basis. These loans are not included in the collective evaluation. For loans identified as having a likelihood of foreclosure or that the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, a collateral dependent approach is used. These are loans for which the repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral. Under CECL, for collateral dependent loans, the Company has adopted the practical expedient method to measure the allowance for credit losses based on the fair value of collateral. The allowance for credit losses is calculated on an individual loan basis based on the shortfall between the fair value of the loan's collateral, which is adjusted for liquidation costs/discounts, and amortized cost. If the fair value of the collateral exceeds the amortized cost, no allowance is required.
The CECL methodology requires a significant amount of management judgment in determining the appropriate allowance for credit losses. Several of the steps in the methodology involve judgment and are subjective in nature including, among other things: segmenting the loan portfolio; determining the amount of loss history to consider; selecting predictive econometric regression models that use appropriate macroeconomic variables; determining the methodology to forecast prepayments; selecting the most appropriate economic forecast scenario; determining the length of the reasonable and supportable forecast and reversion periods; estimating expected utilization rates on unfunded loan commitments; and assessing relevant and appropriate qualitative factors. In addition, the CECL methodology is dependent on economic forecasts, which are inherently imprecise and will change from period to period. Although the allowance for credit losses is considered appropriate, there can be no assurance that it will be sufficient to absorb future losses.
In determining an appropriate amount for the allowance, the Bank segments and evaluates the loan portfolio based on Federal call report codes, which are based on collateral or purpose. The following portfolio classes have been identified:
Primary Residential Mortgages. The Bank originates one to four family residential mortgage loans in the Tri-State area (New York, New Jersey and Connecticut), Pennsylvania and Florida. Loans are secured by first liens
on the primary residence or investment property. Primary risk characteristics associated with residential mortgage loans typically involve major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income; unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic events; and divorce or death. In addition, residential mortgage loans that have adjustable rates could expose the borrower to higher debt service requirements in a rising interest rate environment. Further, real estate values could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential loss exposure for the Bank.
Junior Lien Loan on Residence (which include home equity lines of credit). The Bank provides junior lien loans (“JLL”) and revolving home equity lines of credit against one to four family properties in the Tri-State area. These loans are subordinate to a first mortgage, which may be from another lending institution. Primary risk characteristics associated with JLLs and home equity lines of credit typically involve: major living or lifestyle changes to the borrower, including unemployment or other loss of income; unexpected significant expenses, such as for major medical issues or catastrophic events; and divorce or death. In addition, home equity lines of credit typically are made with variable or floating interest rates, which could expose the borrower to higher debt service requirements in a rising interest rate environment. Further, real estate values could drop significantly and cause the value of the property to fall below the loan amount, creating additional potential loss exposure for the Bank.
Multifamily. The Bank provides mortgage loans for multifamily properties (i.e., buildings which have five or more residential units). Multifamily loans are expected to be repaid from the cash flows of the underlying property so the collective amount of rents must be sufficient to cover all operating expenses, property management and maintenance, taxes and debt service. Increases in vacancy rates, interest rates of other changes in general economic conditions can have an impact on the borrower and its ability to repay the loan.
Owner-Occupied Commercial Real Estate Loans. The Bank provides mortgage loans for owner-occupied commercial real estate properties in the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania. Commercial real estate properties primarily include retail buildings/shopping centers, hotels, office/medical buildings and industrial/warehouse space. Some properties are mixed use as they are a combination of building types, such as a building with retail space on the ground floor and either residential apartments of office suites on the upper floors. Commercial real estate loans are generally considered to have a higher degree of credit risk as they may be dependent on the ongoing success and operating viability of a fewer number of tenants who are occupying the property and who may have a greater degree of exposure to economic conditions.
Investment Commercial Real Estate Loans. The Bank provides mortgage loans for properties managed as an investment property (non-owner-occupied) in the Tri-State area and Pennsylvania. Non-owner-occupied properties primarily include retail buildings/shopping centers, hotels, office/medical buildings and industrial/warehouse space. Some properties are considered "mixed use". Commercial real estate loans are generally considered to have a higher degree of credit risk as they may be dependent on the ongoing success and operating viability of a fewer number of tenants who are occupying the property and who may have a greater degree of exposure to economic conditions.
Commercial and Industrial Loans. The Bank provides lines of credit and term loans to operating companies for business purposes. The loans are generally secured by business assets such as accounts receivable, inventory, business vehicles and equipment as well as the stock of the company, if privately held. Commercial and industrial loans are typically repaid first by the cash flows generated by the borrower’s business operation. The primary risk characteristics are specific to the underlying business and its ability to generate sustainable profitability and resulting positive cash flows. Factors that may influence a business’ profitability include, but are not limited to, demand for its products or services, quality and depth of management, degree of competition, regulatory changes, and general economic conditions. To mitigate the risk characteristics of commercial and industrial loans, these loans often include commercial real estate as collateral and the Bank will often require more frequent reporting requirements from the borrower in order to better monitor its business performance. However, the ability of the Bank to foreclose and realize sufficient value from the assets is often highly uncertain.
Leasing Finance. PCC offers a range of finance solutions nationally. PCC provides term loans and leases secured by assets financed for U.S. based mid-size and large companies. Facilities tend to be fully drawn under fixed rate terms. PCC serves a broad range of industries including transportation, manufacturing, heavy construction and utilities.
Asset risk in PCC’s portfolio is generally recognized through changes to loan income, or through changes to lease related income streams due to fluctuations in lease rates. Changes to lease income can occur when the existing lease contract expires, the asset comes off lease or the business seeks to enter a new lease agreement. Asset risk may also change through depreciation, resulting from changes in the residual value of the operating lease asset or through impairment of the asset carrying value, which can occur at any time during the life of the asset.
Credit risk in PCC’s portfolio generally results from the potential default of borrowers or lessees, which may be driven by customer specific or broader industry-related conditions. Credit losses can impact multiple parts of the income statement including loss of interest/lease/rental income and/or higher costs and expenses related to the repossession, refurbishment, re-marketing and or re-leasing of assets.
Construction. The Bank provides commercial construction loans for properties located in the Tri-state area. Risks common to commercial construction loans are cost overruns, inaccurate estimates of the period of construction, changes in market demand for property, inadequate long-term financing arrangements and declines in real estate values. Changes in market demand for property could lead to longer marketing times resulting in higher carrying costs, declining values, and higher interest rates.
Consumer and Other. These are loans to individuals for household, family and other personal expenditures as well as obligations of states and political subdivisions in the U.S. This also represents all other loans that cannot be categorized in any of the previous mentioned loan segments. Consumer loans generally have higher interest rates and shorter terms than residential loans but tend to have higher credit risk due to the type of collateral securing the loan or in some cases the absence of collateral.
Prior to January 1, 2023, a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”) was a modified loan with concessions made by the lender to a borrower who was experiencing financial difficulty. TDRs were impaired and generally measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception. If a TDR was considered to be a collateral dependent loan, the loan was reported, net, at the fair value of the collateral, less estimated disposition costs. For TDRs that subsequently defaulted, the Company determines the amount of reserve in accordance with the accounting policy for the allowance for credit losses.
On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2022-02, which replaced the accounting and recognition of TDRs. ASU 2022-02 eliminated the accounting guidance on troubled debt restructurings for creditors in ASC 310-40 and amends the guidance on "vintage disclosures" to require disclosure of current-period gross write-offs by year of origination. ASU 2022-02 also updates the requirements related to accounting for credit losses under ASC 326 and adds enhanced disclosures for creditors with respect to loan refinancings and restructurings for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty.
Leases: At inception, contracts are evaluated to determine whether the contract constitutes a lease agreement. For contracts that are determined to be an operating lease, a corresponding right-of-use (“ROU”) asset and operating lease liability are recorded as separate line items on the statement of condition. An ROU asset represents the Company’s right to use an underlying asset during the lease term and a lease liability represents the Company’s commitment to make contractually obligated lease payments. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at the commencement date of the lease and are based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. The measurement of the operating lease ROU asset includes any lease payments made.
If the rate implicit in the lease is not readily determinable, the incremental collateralized borrowing rate is used to determine the present value of lease payments. This rate gives consideration to the applicable FHLB over-collateralized borrowing rates and is based on the information available at the commencement date. The Company has elected to apply the short-term lease measurement and recognition exemption to leases with an initial term of 12 months or less; therefore, these leases are not recorded on the Company’s statement of condition, but rather, lease expense is recognized over the lease term on a straight-line basis. The Company’s lease agreements may include options to extend or terminate the lease. The Company’s decision to exercise renewal options is based on an assessment of its current business needs and market factors at the time of the renewal. The Company maintains certain property and equipment under direct financing and operating leases. Substantially all of the leases in which the Company is the lessee are comprised of real estate property for branches and office space and are classified as operating leases.
The ROU asset is measured at the amount of the lease liability adjusted for lease incentives received, and cumulative prepaid or accrued rent if the lease payments are uneven throughout the lease term, any unamortized initial direct costs, and any
impairment of the ROU asset. Operating lease expense consists of: a single lease cost allocated over the remaining lease term on a straight-line basis, variable lease payments not included in the lease liability, and any impairment of the ROU asset.
There are no terms or conditions related to residual value guarantees and no restrictions or covenants that would impact the Company’s ability to pay dividends or to incur additional financial obligations.
Premises and Equipment: Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation charges are computed using the straight-line method. Equipment and other fixed assets are depreciated over the estimated useful lives, which range from three to ten years. Premises are depreciated over the estimated useful life of 40 years, while leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the term of the lease. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. The cost of major renewals and improvements are capitalized. Gains or losses realized on routine dispositions are recorded as other income or other expense.
Other Real Estate Owned ("OREO"): OREO acquired through foreclosure on loans secured by real estate is initially recorded at fair value, less estimated costs to sell. Physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan occurs when legal title is obtained upon completion of foreclosure or when the borrower conveys all interest in the property to satisfy the loan through completion of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar legal agreement. The assets are subsequently accounted for at the lower of cost or fair value, as established by a current appraisal, less estimated costs to sell. Any write-downs at the date of foreclosure are charged to the allowance for loan losses. Expenses incurred to maintain these properties, losses resulting from write-downs after the date of foreclosure, and realized gains and losses upon sale of the properties are included in other non-interest expense and other non-interest income, as appropriate.
Bank Owned Life Insurance ("BOLI"): The Bank has purchased life insurance policies on certain key executives. BOLI is recorded at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the statement of condition, which is the cash surrender value adjusted for other charges or other amounts due that are probable at settlement.
Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments: Financial instruments include off-balance sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.
Derivatives: At the inception of a derivative contract, the Company designates the derivative as one of three types based on the Company’s intentions and belief as to likely effectiveness as a hedge. These three types are (1) a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or of an unrecognized firm commitment (“fair value hedge”), (2) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash flow hedge”), or (3) an instrument with no hedging designation. For a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative, as well as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item, are recognized in current earnings as fair values change. For a cash flow hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative is reported in other comprehensive income and is reclassified into earnings in the same periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. For cash flow hedges, changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not highly effective in hedging the changes in fair value or expected cash flows of the hedged item are recognized immediately in current earnings. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported currently in earnings, as non-interest income. When hedge accounting is discontinued on a fair value hedge that no longer qualifies as an effective hedge, the derivative continues to be reported at fair value in the statement of condition, but the carrying amount of the hedged item is no longer adjusted for future changes in fair value. The adjustment to the carrying amount of the hedged item that existed at the date hedge accounting is discontinued is amortized over the remaining life of the hedged item into earnings.
Net cash settlements on derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting are recorded in interest income or interest expense, based on the item being hedged. Net cash settlements on derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported in non-interest income. Cash flows on hedges are classified in the cash flow statement the same as the cash flows of the items being hedged.
The Company formally documents the relationship between derivatives and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and the strategy for undertaking hedge transactions at the inception of the hedging relationship. This documentation includes linking fair value or cash flow hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the statement of condition or to specific firm commitments or forecasted transactions. The Company discontinues hedge accounting when it determines that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item, the derivative is settled or terminates, a hedged forecasted transaction is no longer probable, a hedged firm commitment is no longer firm, or treatment of the derivative as a hedge is no longer appropriate or intended.
When hedge accounting is discontinued, subsequent changes in fair value of the derivative are recorded as non-interest income. When a cash flow hedge is discontinued but the hedged cash flows or forecasted transactions are still expected to occur, gains or losses that were accumulated in other comprehensive income are amortized into earnings over the same periods which the hedged transactions will affect earnings.
The Company also offers facility specific / loan level swaps to its customers and offsets its exposure from such contracts by entering into mirror image swaps with a financial institution / swap counterparty (loan level/back-to-back swap program). The customer accommodations and any offsetting swaps are treated as non-hedging derivative instruments which do not qualify for hedge accounting (“standalone derivatives”). The notional amount of the swaps does not represent amounts exchanged by the parties. The amount exchanged is determined by reference to the notional amount and the other terms of the individual contracts. The fair value of the swaps is recorded as both an asset and a liability, in other assets and other liabilities, respectively, in equal amounts for these transactions. The Company is exposed to losses if a customer counterparty fails to make its payments under a contract in which the Company is in a net receiving position. At this time, the Company anticipates that its counterparties will be able to fully satisfy their obligations under the agreements. All of the contracts to which the Company is a party settle monthly. Further, the Company has netting agreements with the dealers with which it does business.
Income Taxes: The Company files a consolidated Federal income tax return. State income tax returns are filed either on a combined or separate company basis based on the current laws and regulations of the state.
The Company recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in its financial statements or tax returns. The measurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities is based on the enacted tax rates. Such tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effect of a change in tax rates in the period of enactment.
The Company recognizes a tax position as a benefit only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the “more likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded.
The Company is no longer subject to examination by the U.S. Federal tax authorities for years prior to 2020 or by state and local tax authorities for years prior to 2018.
The Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.
Employee’s Savings and Investment Plan: The Company has a 401(k) profit-sharing and investment plan, which covers substantially all salaried employees over the age of 21 with at least 12 months of service.
Stock-Based Compensation: Compensation cost is recognized for stock options and restricted stock awards/units issued to employees and non-employee directors, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the fair value of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant is used for restricted stock awards/units. Compensation expense is recognized over the required service or performance period, generally defined as the vesting period. For awards with time-based vesting, compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. The stock options granted under these plans are exercisable at a price equal to the fair value of common stock on the date of grant and expire not more than ten years after the date of grant.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”): The ESPP provides for the granting of rights to purchase up to 150,000 shares of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation common stock. In May 2020, shareholders approved an increase of 200,000 shares of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation common stock to be issued under the ESPP.
The ESPP allows for the purchase of shares during four three-month Offering Periods of each calendar year. The Offering Periods end on February 16, May 16, August 16 and November 16 of each calendar year.
Each participant in the Offering Period is granted an option to purchase a number of shares and may contribute between one percent and 15 percent of their compensation. At the end of each Offering Period, the number of shares to be purchased by the employee is determined by dividing the employee’s contributions accumulated during the Offering Period by the applicable purchase price. The purchase price is an amount equal to 85 percent of the closing market price of a share of common stock on the purchase date. Participation in the ESPP is voluntary and employees can cancel their purchases at any time during the period without penalty. The fair value of each share purchase right is determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.
The Company recorded $178,000, $145,000 and $126,000 of expense in salaries and employee benefits expense for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to the ESPP. Total shares issued under the ESPP for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were 33,748, 25,023 and 26,693, respectively.
Earnings Per Share (“EPS”): In calculating earnings per share, there are no adjustments to net income available to common shareholders, which is the numerator of both the Basic and Diluted EPS. The weighted average number of shares outstanding used in the denominator for Diluted EPS is increased over the denominator used for Basic EPS by the effect of potentially dilutive common stock equivalents utilizing the treasury stock method. Common stock options outstanding are common stock equivalents, as are restricted stock units until vested.
The following table shows the calculation of both basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
Net income available to common shareholders
$
48,854
$
74,246
$
56,622
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
17,849,558
18,161,605
18,788,679
Plus: common stock equivalents
199,494
406,493
503,923
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
18,049,052
18,568,098
19,292,602
Earnings per share:
Basic
$
2.74
$
4.09
$
3.01
Diluted
2.71
4.00
2.93
Restricted stock units totaling 387,768, 291,462 and 264,317 were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because they were anti-dilutive as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Anti-dilutive shares are common stock equivalents with weighted average grant date values in excess of the average market value for the periods presented.
Loss Contingencies: Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and an amount or range of loss can be reasonably estimated. Management does not believe there are any such matters that will have a material effect on the financial statements.
Restrictions on Cash: Cash on hand or on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York was required to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements.
Comprehensive Income/(Loss): Comprehensive income/(loss) consists of net income and the change during the period in the Company’s net unrealized gains or losses on securities available for sale and unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedge, net of tax, less adjustments for realized gains and losses.
Shareholders’ Equity: Treasury stock is carried at cost.
Transfers of Financial Assets: Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been relinquished. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when the assets have been isolated from the Company, the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill is generally determined as the excess of the fair value of the consideration transferred, plus the fair value of any noncontrolling interests in the acquiree (if any), over the fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date. Goodwill and intangible assets acquired in a purchase business combination and determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized but tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events and circumstances exist that indicate that a goodwill impairment test should be performed. The Company performs its annual goodwill impairment test in the third quarter of every year. Goodwill was primarily attributable to the Bank's wealth acquisitions. Management monitors the impact of changes in the financial markets and includes these assessments in our impairment process.
Other intangible assets primarily consist of customer relationship intangible assets arising from acquisitions are amortized on an accelerated method over their estimated useful lives, which range from 5 to 15 years.
Reclassification: Certain reclassifications have been made in the prior periods’ financial statements in order to conform to the current year's presentation and had no effect on the consolidated income statements or the consolidated statements of changes in shareholders’ equity.
Accounting Pronouncements: In March 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-01, Leases (Topic 842), Common Control Arrangements. The amendments in this updated clarify the accounting for leasehold improvements associated with common control leases. This update has been issued in order to address current diversity in practice associated with the accounting for leasehold improvements associated with a lease between entities under common control. The amendments in this update apply to all lessees that are a party to a lease between entities under common control in which there are leasehold improvements. The amendments in this update are effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this update but does not anticipate the adoption will have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
In March 2023, FASB issued ASU 2023-02, Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Accounting for Investments in Tax Credit Structures Using the Proportional Amortization Method. This standard allows entities to elect to account for qualifying tax equity investments using the proportional amortization method, regardless of the program giving rise to the related income tax credits. This election allows the entity to record a writedown of investment to federal income tax expense where income tax credits are recorded. This also aligns the treatment of other tax equity investments with that allowed for low income housing tax credit investments. The standard is effective for the Company for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within these fiscal years. The Company is currently evaluating the impact on its consolidated financial statements.
In October 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-06, Disclosure Improvements: Codification Amendments In Response to the SEC's Disclosure Update and Simplification Initiative to clarify or improve disclosure and presentation requirements on a variety of topics and align the requirements in the FASB accounting standard codification with the Securities and Exchange Commission regulations. The amendments will be effective for the Company only if the SEC removes the related disclosure requirement from its existing regulations no later than June 30, 2027. If the SEC timely removes such a related requirement from its existing regulations, the corresponding amendments within the ASU will become effective for the Company on the same date with early adoption permitted. The Company does not expect the amendments in this update to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting - Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures (Topic 280), to improve reportable segment disclosure requirements through enhanced disclosures about significant segment and interim periods with fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024 with early adoption permitted. The Company does not expect this ASU to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Tax - Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures (Topic 740), which requires reporting companies to break out their income tax expense and tax rate reconciliation in more detail. For public companies, the requirements will become effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company does not expect this ASU to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
2. INVESTMENT SECURITIES
A summary of amortized cost and approximate fair value of investment securities available for sale and held to maturity included in the consolidated statements of condition as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 follows:
Gross
Gross
Allowance
Amortized
Unrealized
Unrealized
For Credit
Fair
(In thousands)
Cost
Gains
Losses
Losses
Value
Securities Available for Sale:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
244,794
$
-
$
(47,103
)
$
-
$
197,691
Mortgage-backed securities-residential
363,893
(43,177
)
-
320,796
SBA pool securities
27,148
-
(3,744
)
-
23,404
Corporate bond
10,000
-
(1,274
)
-
8,726
Total securities available for sale
$
645,835
$
$
(95,298
)
$
-
$
550,617
Securities Held to Maturity:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
40,000
$
-
$
(3,369
)
$
-
$
36,631
Mortgage-backed securities-residential
67,755
-
(9,971
)
-
57,784
Total securities held to maturity
$
107,755
$
-
$
(13,340
)
$
-
$
94,415
Gross
Gross
Allowance
Amortized
Unrealized
Unrealized
For Credit
Fair
(In thousands)
Cost
Gains
Losses
Losses
Value
Securities Available for Sale:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
244,774
$
-
$
(54,232
)
$
-
$
190,542
Mortgage-backed securities-residential
372,471
(46,760
)
-
325,738
SBA pool securities
31,934
(4,508
)
-
27,427
State and political subdivisions
1,866
-
(17
)
-
1,849
Corporate bond
10,000
-
(908
)
-
9,092
Total securities available for sale
$
661,045
$
$
(106,425
)
$
-
$
554,648
Securities Held to Maturity:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
40,000
$
-
$
(4,563
)
$
-
$
35,437
Mortgage-backed securities-residential
62,291
-
(10,541
)
-
51,750
Total securities held to maturity
$
102,291
$
-
$
(15,104
)
$
-
$
87,187
The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities available for sale and held to maturity as of December 31, 2023, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or repay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Securities not due at a single maturity, such as mortgage-backed securities and SBA pool securities are shown separately.
(In thousands)
Available for Sale
Held to Maturity
Maturing in:
Amortized Cost
Fair Value
Amortized Cost
Fair Value
One year or less
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
After one year through five years
35,000
30,752
40,000
36,631
After five years through ten years
139,976
115,175
-
-
After ten years
79,818
60,490
-
-
254,794
206,417
40,000
36,631
Mortgage-backed securities-residential
363,893
320,796
67,755
57,784
SBA pool securities
27,148
23,404
-
-
Total
$
645,835
$
550,617
$
107,755
$
94,415
Securities available for sale with a fair value of $434.6 million and $453.7 million as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, were pledged, but not necessarily encumbered, to secure public funds and for other purposes required
or permitted by law. In addition, securities held to maturity with a carrying value of $107.8 million and $102.3 million were also pledged as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, for the same purposes.
The following is a summary of gross gains, gross losses and net tax benefit related to proceeds on sales of securities available for sale for the years ended December 31:
(In thousands)
Proceeds on sales
$
-
$
118,972
$
-
Gross gains
-
-
Gross losses
-
(6,612
)
-
Net tax benefit
-
1,581
-
The following table presents the Company’s available for sale and held to maturity securities with continuous unrealized losses and the approximate fair value of these investments as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Duration of Unrealized Loss
Less Than 12 Months
12 Months or Longer
Total
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
(In thousands)
Value
Losses
Value
Losses
Value
Losses
Securities Available for Sale:
U.S. government-
sponsored agencies
$
-
$
-
$
197,691
$
(47,103
)
$
197,691
$
(47,103
)
Mortgage-backed
securities-residential
36,634
(963
)
217,513
(42,214
)
254,147
(43,177
)
SBA pool securities
(1
)
22,749
(3,743
)
23,404
(3,744
)
Corporate bond
-
-
8,726
(1,274
)
8,726
(1,274
)
Total securities available for sale
$
37,289
$
(964
)
$
446,679
$
(94,334
)
$
483,968
$
(95,298
)
Securities Held to Maturity:
U.S. government-
sponsored agencies
$
-
$
-
$
36,631
$
(3,369
)
$
36,631
$
(3,369
)
Mortgage-backed
securities-residential
9,647
(135
)
48,137
(9,836
)
57,784
(9,971
)
Total securities held to maturity
$
9,647
$
(135
)
$
84,768
$
(13,205
)
$
94,415
$
(13,340
)
Total securities
$
46,936
$
(1,099
)
$
531,447
$
(107,539
)
$
578,383
$
(108,638
)
Duration of Unrealized Loss
Less Than 12 Months
12 Months or Longer
Total
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
(In thousands)
Value
Losses
Value
Losses
Value
Losses
Securities Available for Sale:
U.S. government-
sponsored agencies
$
-
$
-
$
190,542
$
(54,232
)
$
190,542
$
(54,232
)
Mortgage-backed
securities-residential
82,907
(4,082
)
174,557
(42,678
)
257,464
(46,760
)
SBA pool securities
3,377
(332
)
23,256
(4,176
)
26,633
(4,508
)
State and political subdivisions
1,579
(17
)
-
-
1,579
(17
)
Corporate Bond
9,092
(908
)
-
-
9,092
(908
)
Total securities available for sale
$
96,955
$
(5,339
)
$
388,355
$
(101,086
)
$
485,310
$
(106,425
)
Securities Held to Maturity:
U.S. government-
sponsored agencies
$
13,174
$
(1,826
)
$
22,263
$
(2,737
)
$
35,437
$
(4,563
)
Mortgage-backed
securities-residential
15,635
(3,585
)
36,115
(6,956
)
51,750
(10,541
)
Total securities held to maturity
$
28,809
$
(5,411
)
$
58,378
$
(9,693
)
$
87,187
$
(15,104
)
Total securities
$
125,764
$
(10,750
)
$
446,733
$
(110,779
)
$
572,497
$
(121,529
)
Available for sale and held to maturity securities are evaluated to determine if a decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis has resulted from a credit loss or other factors. An impairment related to credit factors would be recorded through an allowance for credit losses. The allowance is limited to the amount by which the security's amortized cost basis exceeds the fair value. An impairment that has not been recorded through an allowance for credit losses shall be recorded through other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. Investment securities will be written down to fair value through the Consolidated Statements of Income when management intends to sell, or may be required to sell, the securities before they recover in value. The issuers of securities currently in a continuous loss position continue to make timely principal and interest payments and none of these securities were past due or were placed in nonaccrual status at December 31, 2023. Primarily all of the investment securities are backed by loans guaranteed by either U.S. government agencies or U.S. government-sponsored entities, and management believes that default is highly unlikely given the lack of historical credit losses and governmental backing. Management believes that the unrealized losses on these securities are a function of changes in market interest rates and credit spreads, not changes in credit quality. Therefore, no allowance for credit losses was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively.
No other-than-temporary impairment charges were recognized in 2021.
The Company has an investment in a CRA investment fund with a fair value of $13.2 million and $13.0 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The investment is classified as an equity security in our Consolidated Statements of Condition. This security had a gain of $181,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023 and losses of $1.7 million and $432,000 for the years ended December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively. This amount is included in the fair value adjustment for CRA equity security on the Consolidated Statements of Income.
3. LOANS
The following table presents loans outstanding, by type of loan, as of December 31:
% of Total
% of Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans
Loans
Residential mortgage
$
578,327
10.65
%
$
525,756
9.95
%
Multifamily mortgage
1,836,390
33.82
1,863,915
35.27
Commercial mortgage
637,625
11.74
624,625
11.82
Commercial loans (including equipment financing)
2,260,524
41.64
2,194,094
41.51
Commercial construction
17,721
0.33
4,042
0.07
Home equity lines of credit
36,464
0.67
34,496
0.65
Consumer loans, including
fixed rate home equity loans
62,036
1.14
38,014
0.72
Other loans
0.01
0.01
Total loans
$
5,429,325
100.00
%
$
5,285,246
100.00
%
In determining an appropriate amount for the allowance, the Bank segments and aggregated the loan portfolio based on common characteristics. The following pool segments identified as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are based on the CECL methodology:
% of Total
% of Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans
Loans
Primary residential mortgage
$
585,126
10.78
%
$
527,784
9.99
%
Junior lien loan on residence
40,203
0.74
38,265
0.73
Multifamily property
1,836,390
33.85
1,863,915
35.29
Owner-occupied commercial real estate
255,110
4.70
272,009
5.15
Investment commercial real estate
1,061,197
19.56
1,044,125
19.77
Commercial and industrial
1,314,781
24.23
1,194,662
22.62
Lease financing
251,423
4.63
288,566
5.46
Construction
17,987
0.33
9,936
0.19
Consumer and other
63,906
1.18
42,319
0.80
Total loans
$
5,426,123
100.00
%
$
5,281,581
100.00
%
Net deferred costs
3,202
3,665
Total loans including net deferred costs
$
5,429,325
$
5,285,246
The Company, through the Bank, may extend credit to officers, directors and their associates. These loans are subject to the Company’s normal lending policy and Federal Reserve Bank Regulation O.
The following table shows the changes in loans to officers, directors and their associates:
(In thousands)
Balance, beginning of year
$
4,480
$
4,337
New loans
Repayments
(1,186
)
(305
)
Balance, at end of year
$
3,297
$
4,480
The following tables present the recorded investment in nonaccrual and loans past due over 90 days still on accrual by class of loans as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Loans Past Due Over
90 Days and Still
(In thousands)
Nonaccrual
Accruing Interest
Primary residential mortgage
$
1,263
$
-
Junior lien loan on residence
-
Multifamily property
16,645
-
Investment commercial real estate
9,881
-
Commercial and industrial
31,430
-
Lease financing
2,002
-
Consumer and other
-
Total
$
61,324
$
-
Loans Past Due Over
90 Days and Still
(In thousands)
Nonaccrual
Accruing Interest
Primary residential mortgage
$
2,339
$
-
Investment commercial real estate
11,208
-
Commercial and industrial
3,662
-
Lease financing
1,765
-
Total
$
18,974
$
-
The following tables present the recorded investment in past due loans as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 by class of loans, excluding nonaccrual loans:
30-59
60-89
Greater Than
Days
Days
90 Days
Total
(In thousands)
Past Due
Past Due
Past Due
Past Due
Primary residential mortgage
$
2,448
$
1,061
$
-
$
3,509
Junior lien loan on residence
-
-
Multifamily property
11,814
-
-
11,814
Commercial and industrial
7,297
11,498
-
18,795
Consumer and other
-
-
Total
$
22,030
$
12,559
$
-
$
34,589
30-59
60-89
Greater Than
Days
Days
90 Days
Total
(In thousands)
Past Due
Past Due
Past Due
Past Due
Primary residential mortgage
$
1,145
$
-
$
-
$
1,145
Multifamily property
-
-
Commercial and industrial
4,884
-
5,565
Total
$
6,911
$
$
-
$
7,592
Credit Quality Indicators:
The Bank places all commercial loans into various credit risk rating categories based on an assessment of the expected ability of the borrowers to properly service their debt. The assessment considers numerous factors including, but not limited to, current financial information on the borrower, historical payment experience, strength of any guarantor, nature of and value of any collateral, acceptability of the loan structure and documentation, relevant public information and current economic trends. This credit risk rating analysis is performed when the loan is initially underwritten and then annually based on set criteria in the loan policy.
In addition, the Bank has engaged an independent loan review firm to validate risk ratings and to ensure compliance with our policies and procedures. This review of the following types of loans is performed quarterly:
•A large sample of relationships or new lending to existing relationships greater than $1,000,000 originated since the prior review;
•All criticized and classified rated borrowers with relationship exposure of more than $500,000;
•A large sample of Pass-rated (including Pass Watch) borrowers with total relationships in excess of $1,000,000 and a small sample of Pass related relationships less than $1,000,000;
•All leveraged loans of $1,000,000 or greater;
•At least two borrowing relationships managed by each commercial banker;
•Any new Federal Reserve Bank Regulation “O” loan commitments over $1,000,000; and
•Any other credits requested by Bank senior management or a member of the Board of Directors and any borrower for which the reviewer determines a review is warranted based upon knowledge of the portfolio, local events, industry stresses, etc.
The review excludes borrowers with commitments of less than $500,000.
The Bank uses the following regulatory definitions for criticized and classified risk ratings:
Special Mention: These loans have a potential weakness that deserves Management’s close attention. If left uncorrected, the potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the loans or of the institution’s credit position at some future date.
Substandard: These loans are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the institution will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.
Doubtful: These loans have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard, with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full highly questionable and improbable, based on currently existing facts, conditions and values.
Loans not meeting the criteria above that are analyzed individually as part of the above described process are considered to be pass-rated loans.
With the adoption of CECL, loans that are in the process of or expected to be in foreclosure are deemed to be collateral dependent with respect to measuring potential loss and allowance adequacy and are individually evaluated by Management. Loans that do not share common risk characteristics are also evaluated on an individual basis. All other loans are evaluated using a linear discounted cashflow methodology for measuring potential loss and allowance adequacy.
The following is a summary of the credit risk profile of loans by internally assigned grade as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 based on originations for the periods indicated; the years represent the year of origination for non-revolving loans:
Grade as of December 31, 2023 for Loans Originated During
Revolving-
(In thousands)
and Prior
Revolving
Term
Total
Primary residential mortgage:
Pass
$
94,688
$
114,532
$
80,175
$
56,191
$
35,418
$
196,251
$
-
$
5,535
$
582,790
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard
-
-
-
-
-
2,336
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total primary residential mortgages
94,688
114,532
80,175
56,664
36,353
197,179
-
5,535
585,126
Current period gross charge-offs
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Junior lien loan on residence:
Pass
1,394
-
29,620
6,680
40,039
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard
-
-
-
-
-
-
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total junior lien loan on residence
1,394
-
29,783
6,681
40,203
Current period gross charge-offs
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Multifamily property:
Pass
52,072
476,972
645,093
119,934
209,299
295,226
8,451
-
1,807,047
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
1,650
-
-
1,650
Substandard
-
1,572
7,491
-
10,370
8,260
-
-
27,693
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total multifamily property
52,072
478,544
652,584
119,934
219,669
305,136
8,451
-
1,836,390
Current period gross charge-offs
-
-
2,223
-
-
-
-
-
2,223
Owner-occupied commercial real estate:
Pass
4,333
23,590
39,563
19,457
11,788
126,430
17,559
10,731
253,451
Special mention
-
-
1,197
-
-
-
-
1,659
Substandard
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total owner-occupied commercial real estate
4,333
23,590
40,760
19,457
11,788
126,430
18,021
10,731
255,110
Current period gross charge-offs
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Investment commercial real estate:
Pass
125,568
173,660
150,026
57,811
144,447
314,411
30,124
13,379
1,009,426
Special mention
-
-
-
-
21,936
3,834
-
14,172
39,942
Substandard
-
9,881
-
-
1,948
-
-
-
11,829
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total investment commercial real estate
125,568
183,541
150,026
57,811
168,331
318,245
30,124
27,551
1,061,197
Current period gross charge-offs
-
1,199
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,199
Commercial and industrial:
Pass
226,699
216,864
191,389
39,003
26,570
16,845
516,844
23,687
1,257,901
Special mention
-
-
-
1,161
14,232
16,535
Substandard
1,212
22,297
1,467
1,865
2,524
7,571
2,456
40,345
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total commercial and industrial
227,911
239,161
193,614
40,868
28,684
19,559
538,647
26,337
1,314,781
Current period gross charge-offs
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Lease financing:
Pass
50,706
42,447
61,547
39,710
24,113
19,287
-
-
237,810
Special mention
-
9,631
-
1,375
-
-
11,611
Substandard
1,056
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,002
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total lease financing
51,762
52,078
62,058
39,710
26,434
19,381
-
-
251,423
Current period gross charge-offs
-
4,800
-
-
-
-
-
5,594
Construction loans:
Pass
-
-
-
-
-
-
17,987
-
17,987
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total commercial construction loans
-
-
-
-
-
-
17,987
-
17,987
Current period gross charge-offs
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Consumer and other loans:
Pass
3,934
-
-
4,141
51,788
3,581
63,903
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total consumer and other loans
3,934
-
-
4,141
51,791
3,581
63,906
Current period gross charge-offs
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total:
Pass
558,872
1,049,459
1,168,229
332,264
452,165
973,399
672,373
63,593
5,270,354
Special mention
-
9,631
2,466
-
24,472
5,768
14,694
14,366
71,397
Substandard
2,268
33,750
8,958
2,338
15,152
11,712
7,737
2,457
84,372
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Loans
$
561,140
$
1,092,840
$
1,179,653
$
334,602
$
491,789
$
990,879
$
694,804
$
80,416
$
5,426,123
Grade as of December 31, 2022 for Loans Originated During
Revolving-
(In thousands)
and Prior
Revolving
Term
Total
Primary residential mortgage:
Pass
$
118,864
$
87,312
$
62,540
$
37,902
$
27,209
$
190,834
$
-
$
$
525,352
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard
-
-
1,044
-
-
2,432
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total primary residential mortgages
118,864
87,312
63,087
38,946
27,350
191,534
-
527,784
Junior lien loan on residence:
Pass
1,631
33,996
-
37,764
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total junior lien loan on residence
1,631
34,497
-
38,265
Multifamily property:
Pass
488,657
678,507
118,220
224,129
33,884
305,628
1,246
1,425
1,851,696
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
1,696
-
-
1,696
Substandard
-
-
-
2,846
-
7,677
-
-
10,523
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total multifamily property
488,657
678,507
118,220
226,975
33,884
315,001
1,246
1,425
1,863,915
Owner-occupied commercial real estate:
Pass
25,315
43,916
20,679
12,244
22,422
126,237
20,588
272,009
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total owner-occupied commercial real estate
25,315
43,916
20,679
12,244
22,422
126,237
20,588
272,009
Investment commercial real estate:
Pass
189,829
154,715
59,444
155,995
93,330
305,219
6,590
23,487
988,609
Special mention
-
-
-
13,015
-
13,309
-
14,507
40,831
Substandard
11,208
-
-
3,477
-
-
-
-
14,685
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total investment commercial real estate
201,037
154,715
59,444
172,487
93,330
318,528
6,590
37,994
1,044,125
Commercial and industrial:
Pass
421,072
217,887
76,307
80,359
26,792
5,559
303,526
29,750
1,161,252
Special mention
14,405
-
-
-
-
15,682
Substandard
1,553
1,892
2,148
3,894
7,893
-
17,728
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total commercial and industrial
437,030
219,779
79,281
84,253
27,262
5,630
311,677
29,750
1,194,662
Lease financing:
Pass
73,155
71,925
58,262
48,942
24,408
8,125
-
-
284,817
Special mention
1,984
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,984
Substandard
-
-
-
1,765
-
-
-
-
1,765
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total lease financing
75,139
71,925
58,262
50,707
24,408
8,125
-
-
288,566
Construction loans:
Pass
-
-
-
1,439
-
-
4,064
4,433
9,936
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total commercial construction loans
-
-
-
1,439
-
-
4,064
4,433
9,936
Consumer and other loans:
Pass
-
-
-
5,753
31,287
4,704
42,319
Special mention
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total consumer and other loans
-
-
-
5,753
31,287
4,704
42,319
Total:
Pass
1,318,523
1,254,820
395,688
561,649
228,371
948,308
381,317
85,078
5,173,754
Special mention
16,389
-
13,015
15,005
14,507
60,193
Substandard
12,761
1,892
2,695
13,026
8,448
8,394
-
47,634
Doubtful
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Loans
$
1,347,673
$
1,256,712
$
399,209
$
587,690
$
228,982
$
971,761
$
389,969
$
99,585
$
5,281,581
At December 31, 2023, $60.6 million of substandard loans were individually evaluated as compared to $14.7 million at December 31, 2022. The increase in individually evaluated substandard loans was primarily due to one freight credit totaling
$23.5 million and three multifamily credits totaling $16.6 million that were graded as substandard during the year ended December 31, 2023.
Loan Modifications: On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update 2022-02, which replaced the accounting and recognition of TDRs. The Company will provide modifications, which may include other than insignificant delays in payment of amounts due, extension of the terms of the notes or reduction in the interest rates on the notes. In certain instances, the Company may grant more than one type of modification. The following tables provide information related to the modifications during the year ended December 31, 2023 by pool segment and type of concession granted:
Significant Payment Delay
Year ended December 31, 2023
% of Total
Amortized
Class of
Cost Basis
Financing
(Dollars in thousands)
at Period End
Receivable
Commercial and industrial
$
0.02
%
Total
$
0.02
%
Interest Rate Reduction
Year Ended December 31, 2023
% of Total
Amortized
Class of
Cost Basis
Financing
(Dollars in thousands)
at Period End
Receivable
Commercial and industrial
$
3,006
0.23
%
Total
$
3,006
0.23
%
The following table depicts the payment status of the loans that were modified to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties on or after January 1, 2023, the date we adopted ASU 2022-02, through December 31, 2023:
Payment Status at December 31, 2023
30-89 Days
90+ Days
(Dollars in thousands)
Current
Past Due
Past Due
Commercial and industrial
$
3,254
$
-
$
-
Total
$
3,254
$
-
$
-
The Company has not committed to lend additional amounts as of December 31, 2023 to customers with outstanding loans that are classified as modified loans.
The following table presents loans by class modified that failed to comply with the modified terms in the year following modification and resulted in a payment default at December 31, 2023:
Amortized Cost Basis of Modified Loans
That Subsequently Defaulted
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Interest Only
Interest
(Dollars in thousands)
Period Extension
Rate Reduction
Commercial and industrial
$
$
3,006
Total
$
$
3,006
Upon the Company's determination that a modified loan (or portion of a loan) has subsequently been deemed uncollectible, the loan (or portion of the loan) is written off. Therefore, the amortized cost basis of the loan is reduced by the uncollectible amount and the allowance for credit losses is adjusted by the same amount.
Troubled Debt Restructurings: Prior to the adoption of ASU 2022-02 on January 1, 2023, the Company classified certain loans as troubled debt restructuring ("TDR") loans when credit terms to a borrower in financial difficulty were modified, in accordance with ASC 310-40. With the adoption of ASU 2022-02 as of January 1, 2023, the Company has ceased to recognize or measure new TDRs but those existing at December 31, 2022 will remain until settled.
The Company allocated $1.2 million of specific reserves to customers whose loan terms had been modified in troubled debt restructurings as of December 31, 2022.
During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, the terms of certain loans were modified as troubled debt restructurings. The modification of the terms of such loans included one or a combination of the following: a reduction of the stated interest rate of the loan; or an extension of the maturity date at a stated rate of interest lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk.
The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2022:
Pre-Modification
Post-Modification
Outstanding
Outstanding
Number of
Recorded
Recorded
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans
Investment
Investment
Investment commercial real estate
$
11,208
$
11,208
Total
$
11,208
$
11,208
The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2021:
Pre-Modification
Post-Modification
Outstanding
Outstanding
Number of
Recorded
Recorded
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans
Investment
Investment
Primary residential mortgage
$
$
Junior lien loan on residence
Commercial and industrial
2,070
2,070
Total
$
2,691
$
2,691
The identification of the troubled debt restructured loans did not have a significant impact on the allowance for credit losses. In addition, there were no charge-offs as a result of the classification of these loans as troubled debt restructurings during the years ended December 31, 2022 or 2021.
There were no payment defaults on loans that were modified as troubled debt restructurings during the year ended December 31, 2022.
The following table presents loans by class modified as troubled debt restructurings during the year ended December 31, 2021 for which there was a payment default during the same period:
Number of
Recorded
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans
Investment
Primary residential mortgage
$
Total
$
The defaults described above did not have a material impact on the allowance for credit losses or provisions during 2022 and 2021.
A loan is accounted for as a modification made to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty when a modification has been granted that is deemed concessionary and not temporary to a debtor experiencing financial difficulty. This evaluation is performed under the Company’s internal underwriting policy. The modification of the terms of such loans may include one or more of the following: (1) a reduction of the stated interest rate of the loan to a rate that is lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk; (2) an extension of an interest only period for a predetermined period of time; (3) an extension of the maturity date; or (4) an extension of the amortization period over which future payments will be computed. At the time a loan is modified, the Bank performs an underwriting analysis, which includes, at a minimum, obtaining current financial statements and tax returns, copies of all leases, and an updated independent appraisal of the property. A loan will continue to accrue interest if it can be reasonably determined that the borrower should be able to perform under the modified
terms, that the loan has not been chronically delinquent (both to debt service and real estate taxes) or in nonaccrual status since its inception, and that there have been no charge-offs on the loan. Restructured loans with previous charge-offs would not accrue interest at the time of the modification. At a minimum, six consecutive months of contractual payments would need to be made on a modified loan before returning it to accrual status.
4. ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES
On January 1, 2022, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13, which replaced the incurred loss methodology with an expected loss methodology that is referred to as the CECL methodology. See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for additional information on Topic 326.
The Company does not estimate expected credit losses on accrued interest receivable ("AIR") on loans, as AIR is reversed or written off when the full collection of the AIR related to a loan becomes doubtful. AIR on loans totaled $27.8 million at December 31, 2023 and $22.8 million at December 31, 2022.
The following tables present the loan balances by segment, and the corresponding balances in the allowance as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
December 31, 2023
Ending
ACL
Ending
Attributable
ACL
Total
To
Total
Attributable
Individually
Individually
Loans
To Loans
Total
Evaluated
Evaluated
Collectively
Collectively
Total
Ending
(In thousands)
Loans
Loans
Evaluated
Evaluated
Loans
ACL
Primary residential mortgage
$
$
-
$
584,474
$
3,931
$
585,126
$
3,931
Junior lien loan on residence
-
40,103
40,203
Multifamily property
16,645
-
1,819,745
8,782
1,836,390
8,782
Owner-occupied commercial
real estate
-
-
255,110
4,840
255,110
4,840
Investment commercial real
estate
9,881
-
1,051,316
15,403
1,061,197
15,403
Commercial and industrial
31,430
4,518
1,283,351
25,189
1,314,781
29,707
Lease financing
2,002
249,421
1,643
251,423
1,663
Construction
-
-
17,987
17,987
Consumer and other
-
-
63,906
63,906
Total ACL
$
60,710
$
4,538
$
5,365,413
$
61,350
$
5,426,123
$
65,888
December 31, 2022
Ending
ACL
Ending
Attributable
ACL
Total
To
Total
Attributable
Individually
Individually
Loans
To Loans
Total
Evaluated
Evaluated
Collectively
Collectively
Total
Ending
(In thousands)
Loans
Loans
Evaluated
Evaluated
Loans
ACL
Primary residential mortgage
$
$
-
$
527,410
$
2,894
$
527,784
$
2,894
Junior lien loan on residence
-
-
38,265
38,265
Multifamily property
-
-
1,863,915
8,849
1,863,915
8,849
Owner-occupied commercial
real estate
-
-
272,009
4,835
272,009
4,835
Investment commercial real
estate
11,208
1,208
1,032,917
14,272
1,044,125
15,480
Commercial and industrial
3,385
1,191,277
25,231
1,194,662
25,530
Lease financing
1,765
-
286,801
2,314
288,566
2,314
Construction
-
-
9,936
9,936
Consumer and other
-
-
42,319
42,319
Total ACL
$
16,732
$
1,507
$
5,264,849
$
59,322
$
5,281,581
$
60,829
Individually evaluated loans include nonaccrual loans of $60.6 million at December 31, 2023 and $15.8 million at December 31, 2022. Individually evaluated loans did not include any performing modified loans at December 31, 2023. An allowance of $185,000 was allocated to modified loans at December 31, 2023, of which all was allocated to one nonaccrual loan. All accruing modified loans were paying in accordance with their modified terms as of December 31, 2023.
The allowance for credit losses was $65.9 million as of December 31, 2023, compared to $60.8 million at December 31, 2022. The increase in the allowance for credit losses ("ACL") was primarily due to the provision for credit losses due to charge-offs of $5.6 million and $2.2 million related to one freight related credit and one multifamily property, respectively. These charge-offs were partially offset by the release of specific reserves of $3.2 million related to these credits. Additionally, there was a specific reserve of $4.2 million for one freight related credit totaling $23.5 million recorded during the year ended December 31, 2023. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of loans was 1.21 percent and 1.15 percent at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Under Topic 326, the Company's methodology for determining the ACL on loans is based upon key assumptions, including historic net charge-off factors, economic forecasts, reversion periods, prepayments and qualitative adjustments. The allowance is measured on a collective, or pool, basis when similar risk characteristics exist. Loans that do not share common risk characteristics are evaluated on an individual basis and are excluded from the collective evaluation.
The following tables present collateral dependent loans individually evaluated by segment as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
December 31, 2023
Average
Unpaid
Individually
Principal
Recorded
Related
Evaluated
(In thousands)
Balance
Investment
Allowance
Loans
With no related allowance recorded:
Primary residential mortgage (1)
$
$
$
-
$
Junior lien loan on residence (1)
-
Multifamily property (2)
18,868
16,645
-
5,964
Investment commercial real estate (3)
12,500
9,881
-
5,781
Commercial and industrial (1)(3)(4)
6,275
3,965
-
2,146
Lease financing (5)
1,035
-
2,067
Total loans with no related allowance
$
39,490
$
32,189
$
-
$
16,394
With related allowance recorded:
Commercial and industrial (3)(4)(5)
$
28,359
$
27,465
$
4,518
$
9,814
Lease financing (5)
1,079
1,056
1,611
Total loans with related allowance
$
29,438
$
28,521
$
4,538
$
11,425
Total loans individually evaluated for impairment
$
68,928
$
60,710
$
4,538
$
27,819
(1)Secured by residential real estate.
(2)Secured by multifamily residential properties.
(3)Secured by commercial real estate.
(4)Secured by all business assets.
(5)Secured by machinery and equipment.
December 31, 2022
Unpaid
Average
Principal
Recorded
Specific
Impaired
(In thousands)
Balance
Investment
Reserves
Loans
With no related allowance recorded:
Primary residential mortgage
$
$
$
-
$
Commercial and industrial
3,868
1,836
-
Lease financing
1,792
1,765
-
Total loans with no related allowance
$
6,075
$
3,975
$
-
$
1,232
With related allowance recorded:
Investment commercial real estate
$
12,500
$
11,208
$
1,208
$
12,402
Commercial and industrial
1,555
1,549
Total loans with related allowance
$
14,055
$
12,757
$
1,507
$
12,576
Total loans individually evaluated for impairment
$
20,130
$
16,732
$
1,507
$
13,808
Interest income recognized on individually evaluated loans for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 was not material. The Company did not recognize any income on non-accruing impaired loans for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
The activity in the allowance for credit losses for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 are summarized below:
January 1,
December 31,
Beginning
Charge-
Provision/
Ending
(In thousands)
ACL
Offs
Recoveries
(Credit)(1)
ACL
Primary residential mortgage
$
2,894
$
-
$
$
$
3,931
Junior lien loan on residence
-
-
Multifamily property
8,849
(2,223
)
-
2,156
8,782
Owner-occupied commercial real estate
4,835
-
-
4,840
Investment commercial real estate
15,480
(1,199
)
-
1,122
15,403
Commercial and industrial
25,530
-
-
4,177
29,707
Lease financing
2,314
(5,594
)
-
4,943
1,663
Construction
-
-
Consumer and other
(139
)
Total ACL
$
60,829
$
(9,155
)
$
$
14,156
$
65,888
(1) Provision to roll forward the ACL excludes a credit of $65,000 for off-balance sheet commitments.
December 31,
Prior to
December 31,
Adoption
Impact of
of
Adopting
Provision/
Ending
(In thousands)
Topic 326
Topic 326
Charge-Offs
Recoveries
(Credit)(1)
ACL
Primary residential mortgage
$
1,510
$
$
-
$
$
$
2,894
Junior lien loan on residence
(3
)
-
(14
)
Multifamily property
9,806
4,072
-
-
(5,029
)
8,849
Owner-occupied commercial real estate
1,998
2,902
-
-
(65
)
4,835
Investment commercial real estate
27,083
(13,589
)
(1,450
)
-
3,436
15,480
Commercial and industrial
17,509
(657
)
-
8,424
25,530
Lease financing
3,440
-
-
(1,282
)
2,314
Construction
-
-
(173
)
Consumer and other
(53
)
(46
)
Total ACL
$
61,697
$
(5,536
)
$
(1,506
)
$
$
5,903
$
60,829
(1) Provision to roll forward the ACL excludes a provision of $450,000 for off-balance sheet commitments.
For the accounting policy on the allowance for loan losses that was in effect prior to the adoption of Topic 326, refer to Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021. The activity in the allowance for loan and lease losses for the year ended December 31, 2021 is summarized below:
January 1,
December 31,
Beginning
Provision/
Ending
(In thousands)
ALLL
Charge-Offs
Recoveries
(Credit)
ALLL
Primary residential mortgage
$
2,905
$
(12
)
$
-
$
(1,461
)
$
1,432
Home equity lines of credit
-
(220
)
Junior lien loan on residence
-
-
(10
)
Multifamily property
9,945
-
-
(139
)
9,806
Owner-occupied commercial real estate
3,050
-
-
(1,052
)
1,998
Investment commercial real estate
27,713
(7,137
)
-
6,507
27,083
Commercial and industrial
19,047
(5,019
)
3,415
17,509
Lease financing
3,936
-
-
(496
)
3,440
Secured by farmland and agricultural
-
-
Commercial construction
-
-
(116
)
Consumer and other
(80
)
Total ALLL
$
67,309
$
(12,248
)
$
$
6,475
$
61,697
Allowance for Credit Losses on Off Balance Sheet Commitments
The following tables present the activity in the ACL for off balance sheet commitments for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:
January 1,
December 31,
Provision
(In thousands)
ACL
(Credit)
Ending ACL
Off balance sheet commitments
$
$
(65
)
$
Total ACL
$
$
(65
)
$
December 31,
December 31,
Prior to Adoption
Impact of
Provision
(In thousands)
of Topic 326
Adopting Topic 326
(Credit)
Ending ACL
Off balance sheet commitments
$
-
$
$
$
Total ACL
$
-
$
$
$
5. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT
The following table presents premises and equipment as of December 31,
(In thousands)
Land and land improvements
$
6,881
$
6,853
Buildings
12,259
12,332
Furniture and equipment
27,085
25,484
Leasehold improvements
15,101
14,891
Projects in progress
1,817
1,046
63,143
60,606
Less: accumulated depreciation
38,977
36,775
Total
$
24,166
$
23,831
The following table presents finance lease right-of-use assets as of December 31,
(In thousands)
Land and buildings
$
11,237
$
11,237
Less: accumulated depreciation
9,150
8,402
Total
$
2,087
$
2,835
Projects in progress represents costs associated with smaller renovation or equipment installation projects at various locations.
The Company recorded depreciation expense of $3.7 million, $3.5 million, and $3.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.
The Company leases its corporate headquarters building under a capital lease, classified as a finance lease right-of-use asset in accordance with lease accounting guidance. The lease arrangement requires monthly payments through 2025. Related depreciation expense of $607,000 is included in each of the 2023, 2022 and 2021 results.
The Company also leases its Gladstone branch after completing a sale-leaseback transaction involving the property in 2011. The lease arrangement requires monthly payments through 2031. The deferred gain was removed as a cumulative-effect adjustment in accordance with lease accounting guidance. Related depreciation expense and accumulated depreciation of $141,000 is included in each of the 2023, 2022 and 2021 results.
The following is a schedule by year of future minimum lease payments under finance lease right-of-use asset, together with the present value of net minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2023:
(In thousands)
$
1,456
Thereafter
Total minimum lease payments
3,739
Less: amount representing interest
Present value of net minimum lease payments
$
3,430
6. DEPOSITS
Time deposits over $250,000 totaled $105.9 million and $91.1 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. These totals exclude brokered certificates of deposit.
The following table sets forth the details of total deposits as of December 31:
(Dollars in thousands)
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits
$
957,687
18.16
%
$
1,246,066
23.94
%
Interest-bearing checking (1)
2,882,193
54.65
2,143,611
41.18
Savings
111,573
2.12
157,338
3.02
Money market
740,559
14.04
1,228,234
23.60
Certificates of deposit - retail
443,791
8.41
318,573
6.12
Certificates of deposit - listing service
7,804
0.15
25,358
0.49
Subtotal deposits
5,143,607
97.53
5,119,180
98.35
Interest-bearing demand - Brokered
10,000
0.19
60,000
1.15
Certificates of deposit - Brokered
120,507
2.28
25,984
0.50
Total deposits
$
5,274,114
100.00
%
$
5,205,164
100.00
%
(1) Interest-bearing checking includes $990.7 million at December 31, 2023 and $620.1 million at December 31, 2022 of reciprocal balances in the Reich & Tang or Promontory Demand Deposit Marketplace programs.
The scheduled maturities of time deposits as of December 31, 2023 are as follows:
(In thousands)
$
501,513
64,539
3,964
1,222
Over 5 Years
-
Total
$
572,102
7. FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK ADVANCES AND OTHER BORROWINGS
At December 31, 2023 the Company had $403.8 million of overnight borrowings at the FHLB at a rate of 5.62 percent compared to $379.5 million of overnight borrowings at the FHLB at a rate of 4.61 percent at December 31, 2022. At December 31, 2023, unused short-term overnight borrowing commitments totaled $1.4 billion from the FHLB, $22.0 million from correspondent bankers and $1.7 billion at the Federal Bank of New York.
8. FAIR VALUE
Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair values:
Level 1:
Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity has the ability to access as of the measurement date.
Level 2:
Significant other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3:
Significant unobservable inputs that reflect a company’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing as asset or liability.
The Company used the following methods and significant assumptions to estimate the fair value:
Investment Securities: The fair values for investment securities are determined by quoted market prices (Level 1). For securities where quoted prices are not available, fair values are calculated based on market prices of similar securities (Level 2). For securities where quoted prices or market prices of similar securities are not available, fair values are calculated using discounted cash flows or other market indicators (Level 3).
Loans Held for Sale, at Fair Value: The fair value of loans held for sale is determined using quoted prices for similar assets, adjusted for specific attributes of that loan or other observable market data, such as outstanding commitments from third party investors (Level 2).
Derivatives: The fair values of derivatives are based on valuation models using observable market data as of the measurement date (Level 2). Our derivatives are traded in an over-the-counter market where quoted market prices are not always available. Therefore, the fair values of derivatives are determined using quantitative models that utilize multiple market inputs. The inputs will vary based on the type of derivative, but could include interest rates, prices and indices to generate continuous yield or pricing curves, prepayment rates, and volatility factors to value the position. The majority of market inputs are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, including brokers, market transactions and third-party pricing services.
Individually Evaluated Loans: The fair value of collateral dependent loans with specific allocations of the allowance for credit losses is generally based on recent real estate appraisals. These appraisals may utilize a single valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach. Individually evaluated loans may, in some cases, also be measured by the discounted cash flow methodology where payments are anticipated. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the independent appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. Such adjustments are usually significant and typically result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value.
Appraisals for collateral-dependent impaired loans are performed by certified general appraisers (for commercial properties) or certified residential appraisers (for residential properties) whose qualifications and licenses have been reviewed and verified by Management. Once received, a member of the Credit Department reviews the assumptions and approaches utilized in the appraisal, as well as the overall resulting fair value in comparison with independent data sources such as recent market data or industry-wide statistics. Appraisals on collateral dependent impaired loans and other real estate owned (consistent for all loan types) are obtained on an annual basis, unless a significant change in the market or other factors warrants a more frequent appraisal. On an annual basis, Management compares the actual selling price of any collateral that has been sold to the most recent appraised value to determine what additional adjustment should be made to the appraisal value to arrive at fair value for other properties. The most recent analysis performed indicated that a discount up to 15 percent should be applied
to appraisals on properties. The discount is determined based on the nature of the underlying properties, aging of appraisal and other factors. For each collateral-dependent impaired loan we consider other factors, such as certain indices or other market information, as well as property specific circumstances to determine if an adjustment to the appraised value is needed. In situations where there is evidence of change in value, the Bank will determine if there is need for an adjustment to the specific reserve on the collateral dependent impaired loans. When the Bank applies an interim adjustment, it generally shows the adjustment as an incremental specific reserve against the loan until it has received the full updated appraisal. All collateral-dependent impaired loans and other real estate owned valuations were supported by an appraisal less than 12 months old or in the process of obtaining an appraisal as of December 31, 2023.
The following tables summarize, at the dates indicated, assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis, including financial assets for which the Company has elected the fair value option:
Fair Value Measurements Using
Quoted
Prices In
Active
Markets
Significant
For
Other
Significant
Identical
Observable
Unobservable
Assets
Inputs
Inputs
(In thousands)
December 31, 2023
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Assets:
Securities available for sale:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
197,691
$
-
$
197,691
$
-
Mortgage-backed securities-residential
320,796
-
320,796
-
SBA pool securities
23,404
-
23,404
-
Corporate bond
8,726
-
8,726
-
CRA investment fund
13,166
13,166
-
-
Derivatives:
Cash flow hedges
6,814
-
6,814
-
Loan level swaps
23,826
-
23,826
-
Total
$
594,423
$
13,166
$
581,257
$
-
Liabilities:
Derivatives:
Loan level swaps
23,826
-
23,826
-
Total
$
23,826
$
-
$
23,826
$
-
(In thousands)
December 31, 2022
Assets:
Securities available for sale:
U.S. government-sponsored agencies
$
190,542
$
-
$
190,542
$
-
Mortgage-backed securities-residential
325,738
-
325,738
-
SBA pool securities
27,427
-
27,427
-
State and political subdivisions
1,849
-
1,849
-
Corporate bond
9,092
-
9,092
-
CRA investment fund
12,985
12,985
-
-
Derivatives:
Cash flow hedges
9,289
-
9,289
-
Loan level swaps
38,265
-
38,265
-
Total
$
615,187
$
12,985
$
602,202
$
-
Liabilities:
Derivatives:
Loan level swaps
38,265
-
38,265
-
Total
$
38,265
$
-
$
38,265
$
-
The Company has elected the fair value option for certain loans held for sale. These loans are intended for sale and the Company believes that the fair value is the best indicator of the resolution of these loans. Interest income is recorded based on the contractual terms of the loan and in accordance with the Company’s policy on loans held for investment. None of these loans are 90 days or more past due or on nonaccrual as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.
The following table presents residential loans held for sale, at fair value, at the dates indicated:
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Residential loans contractual balance
$
$
-
Fair value adjustment
-
Total fair value of residential loans held for sale
$
$
-
The following tables summarize, at the date indicated, assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis:
Fair Value Measurements Using
Quoted
Prices In
Active
Markets
Significant
For
Other
Significant
Identical
Observable
Unobservable
Assets
Inputs
Inputs
(In thousands)
December 31, 2023
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Assets:
Individually evaluated loans:
Commercial and industrial
$
22,947
$
-
$
-
$
22,947
Lease financing
1,035
-
-
1,035
Fair Value Measurements Using
Quoted
Prices In
Active
Markets
Significant
For
Other
Significant
Identical
Observable
Unobservable
Assets
Inputs
Inputs
(In thousands)
December 31, 2022
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Assets:
Impaired loans:
Investment commercial real estate
$
10,000
$
-
$
-
$
10,000
Commercial and industrial
-
-
The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments at December 31, 2023 are as follows:
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2023 Using
(In thousands)
Carrying
Amount
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$
187,671
$
187,671
$
-
$
-
$
187,671
Securities available for sale
550,617
-
550,617
-
550,617
Securities held to maturity
107,755
-
94,415
-
94,415
CRA investment fund
13,166
13,166
-
-
13,166
FHLB and FRB stock
31,044
-
-
-
N/A
Loans held for sale, at fair value
-
-
Loans held for sale, at lower of cost
or fair value
6,695
-
7,201
-
7,201
Loans, net of allowance for credit losses
5,363,437
-
-
5,294,942
5,294,942
Accrued interest receivable
30,676
-
2,868
27,808
30,676
Accrued interest receivable loan level swaps (A)
1,373
-
1,373
-
1,373
Cash flow hedges
6,814
-
6,814
-
6,814
Loan level swaps
23,826
-
23,826
-
23,826
Financial liabilities
Deposits
$
5,274,114
$
4,702,012
$
567,696
$
-
$
5,269,708
Short-term borrowings
403,814
-
403,814
-
403,814
Subordinated debt
133,274
-
-
111,924
111,924
Accrued interest payable
7,115
4,989
1,968
7,115
Accrued interest payable loan level swaps (B)
1,373
-
1,373
-
1,373
Loan level swaps
23,826
-
23,826
-
23,826
(A)Included in other assets in the Consolidated Statement of Condition.
(B)Included in accrued expenses and other liabilities in the Consolidated Statement of Condition.
The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments at December 31, 2022 are as follows:
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2022 Using
(In thousands)
Carrying
Amount
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$
190,075
$
190,075
$
-
$
-
$
190,075
Securities available for sale
554,648
-
554,648
-
554,648
Securities held to maturity
102,291
-
87,187
-
87,187
CRA investment fund
12,985
12,985
-
-
12,985
FHLB and FRB stock
30,672
-
-
-
N/A
Loans held for sale, at lower of cost
or fair value
15,626
-
17,176
-
17,176
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses
5,224,417
-
-
5,141,201
5,141,201
Accrued interest receivable
25,157
-
2,393
22,764
25,157
Accrued interest receivable loan level
swaps (A)
1,092
-
1,092
-
1,092
Cash flow hedges
9,289
-
9,289
-
9,289
Loan level swaps
38,265
-
38,265
-
38,265
Financial liabilities
Deposits
$
5,205,164
$
4,835,249
$
356,975
$
-
$
5,192,224
Short-term borrowings
379,530
-
379,530
-
379,530
Subordinated debt
132,987
-
-
119,865
119,865
Accrued interest payable
2,997
2,509
2,997
Accrued interest payable loan level
swaps (B)
1,092
-
1,092
-
1,092
Loan level swaps
38,265
-
38,265
-
38,265
(A)Included in other assets in the Consolidated Statement of Condition.
(B)Included in accrued expenses and other liabilities in the Consolidated Statement of Condition.
The methods and assumptions, not previously presented, used to estimate fair values are described as follows:
Cash and cash equivalents: The carrying amounts of cash and short-term instruments approximate fair values and are classified as either Level 1 or Level 2. Cash and due from banks is classified as Level 1.
CRA investment fund: The fair value of the investment fund is determined by quoted prices in an active market.
FHLB and FRB stock: It is not practicable to determine the fair value of FHLB or FRB stock due to restrictions placed on its transferability.
Loans held for sale, at lower of cost or fair value: The fair value of loans held for sale is determined using quoted prices for similar assets, adjusted for specific attributes of that loan or other observable market data, such as outstanding commitments from third party investors. Loans held for sale are classified as Level 2.
Loans: At December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, the exit price observations are obtained from a third-party using its proprietary valuation model and methodology and may not reflect actual or prospective market valuations. The valuation utilizes a discounted cash-flow based model relying on various assumptions including the probability of default, loss given default, portfolio liquidity and remaining term of the portfolio.
Deposits: The fair values disclosed for demand deposits (e.g., interest and noninterest checking, savings and money market accounts) are, by definition, equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date, (i.e., the carrying amount) resulting in a Level 1 classification. The carrying amounts of variable-rate certificates of deposit approximate the fair values at the reporting date resulting in Level 2 classification. Fair values for fixed rate certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies interest rates currently being offered on certificates to a schedule of aggregated expected monthly maturities on time deposits resulting in a Level 2 classification.
Overnight borrowings: The carrying amounts of overnight borrowings approximate fair values and are classified as Level 2.
Federal Home Loan Bank advances: The fair values of the Company’s long-term borrowings are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on the current borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements resulting in a Level 2 classification.
Subordinated debentures: The fair values of the Company’s subordinated debentures are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on the current borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements resulting in a Level 3 classification.
Accrued interest receivable/payable: The carrying amounts of accrued interest approximate fair value resulting in a Level 2 or Level 3 classification. Accrued interest on deposits and securities are included in Level 2. Accrued interest on loans and subordinated debt are included in Level 3.
Off-balance sheet instruments: Fair values for off-balance sheet, credit-related financial instruments are based on fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the counterparties’ credit standing. The fair value of commitments is not material.
9. REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS:
All of the Company’s revenue from contracts with customers in the scope of ASC 606 is recognized within noninterest income.
The following table presents the sources of noninterest income for the years ended December 31:
(In thousands)
Service charges on deposits
Overdraft fees
$
$
$
Interchange income
1,182
1,451
1,451
Other
3,452
2,286
1,831
Wealth management fees (a)
55,747
54,651
52,987
Gains on sales of OREO
-
-
(Loss)/Gain on sale of property
(6
)
-
Corporate advisory fee income
1,704
3,483
Other (b)
12,466
5,562
12,025
Total noninterest other income
$
73,578
$
66,417
$
72,243
(a)Includes investment brokerage fees.
(b)All of the other category is outside the scope of ASC 606.
The following table presents the sources of noninterest income by operating segment for the years ended December 31:
Revenue by Operating
Wealth
Segment
Banking
Management
Total
Service charges on deposits
Overdraft fees
$
$
-
$
Interchange income
1,182
-
1,182
Other
3,452
-
3,452
Wealth management fees (a)
-
55,747
55,747
Gain on sale of property
(6
)
-
(6
)
Corporate advisory fee income
-
Other (b)
11,288
1,178
12,466
Total noninterest income
$
16,653
$
56,925
$
73,578
Revenue by Operating
Wealth
Segment
Banking
Management
Total
Service charges on deposits
Overdraft fees
$
$
-
$
Interchange income
1,451
-
1,451
Other
2,286
-
2,286
Wealth management fees (a)
-
54,651
54,651
Gain on sales of OREO
-
Corporate advisory fee income
1,704
-
1,704
Other (b)
3,715
1,847
5,562
Total noninterest income
$
9,919
$
56,498
$
66,417
Revenue by Operating
Wealth
Segment
Banking
Management
Total
Service charges on deposits
Overdraft fees
$
$
-
$
Interchange income
1,451
-
1,451
Other
1,831
-
1,831
Wealth management fees (a)
-
52,987
52,987
Gain on sales of OREO
-
Corporate advisory fee income
3,483
-
3,483
Other (b)
10,111
1,914
12,025
Total noninterest income
$
17,342
$
54,901
$
72,243
(a)Includes investment brokerage fees.
(b)All of the other category is outside the scope of ASC 606.
A description of the Company’s revenue streams accounted for under ASC 606 follows:
Service charges on deposit accounts: The Company earns fees from its deposit customers for certain transaction account maintenance, and overdraft fees. Transaction-based fees, which include services such as ATM use fees, stop payment charges, statement rendering, and ACH fees, are recognized at the time the transaction is executed as that point in time the Company fulfills the customer’s request. Account maintenance fees, which relate primarily to monthly maintenance, are earned over the course of a month, representing the period over which the Company satisfies the performance obligation. Overdraft fees are recognized at the point in time that the overdraft occurs. Service charges on deposits are withdrawn from the customer’s account balance.
Interchange income: The Company earns interchange fees from debit cardholder transactions conducted through the Visa payment network. Interchange fees from cardholder transactions represent a percentage of the underlying transaction value and are recognized daily, concurrently with the transaction processing services provided to the cardholder. Interchange income is presented gross of cardholder rewards. Cardholder rewards are included in other expenses in the statement of income. Cardholder rewards reduced interchange income by $8,000, $102,000, and $127,000 for 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.
Wealth management fees (gross): The Company earns wealth management fees from its contracts with wealth management clients to manage assets for investment, and/or to transact on their accounts. These fees are primarily earned over time as the Company charges its clients on a monthly or quarterly basis in accordance with its investment advisory agreements. Fees are generally assessed based on a tiered scale of the market value of AUM at month end. Fees that are transaction based, including trade execution services, are recognized at the point in time that the transaction is executed (i.e. trade date).
Investment brokerage fees (net): The Company earns fees from investment brokerage services provided to its customers by a third-party service provider. The Company receives commissions from the third-party service provider twice a month based upon customer activity for the month. The fees are recognized monthly, and a receivable is recorded until commissions are generally paid by the 15th of the following month. Because the Company (i) acts as an agent in arranging the relationship between the customer and the third-party service provider and (ii) does not control the services rendered to the customers, investment brokerage fees are presented net of related costs.
Corporate advisory fee income: The Company provides our clients with financial advisory and underwriting services. Investment banking revenues, which includes mergers and acquisition advisory fees and private placement fees, are recorded when the performance obligation for the transaction is satisfied under the terms of each engagement. Reimbursed expenses are reported in other revenue on the statement of operations. Expenses related to investment banking are recognized as non-compensation expenses on the statement of operations. Amounts received and unearned are included on the statement of financial condition. Expenses related to investment banking deals not completed are recognized in non-compensation expenses on the statement of operations.
The Company’s mergers and acquisition advisory fees generally consist of a nonrefundable up-front fee and success fee. The nonrefundable fee is recorded as deferred revenue upon receipt and recognized at a point in time when the performance obligation is satisfied, or when the transaction is deemed by management to be terminated. Management’s judgment is required in determining when a transaction is considered to be terminated.
Gains/(losses) on sales of property: The Company records a gain or loss from the sale of property when control of the property transfers to the buyer, which generally occurs at the time of an executed deed. When the Company finances the sale of property to the buyer, the Company assesses whether the buyer is committed to perform its obligations under the contract and whether collectability of the transaction price is probable. Once these criteria are met, the property 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, the Company adjusts the transaction price and related gain/(loss) on sale if a significant financing component is present. The Company recorded a loss on sale of property of $6,000 for 2023 and a gain on sale of property of $275,000 for 2022. The Company did not record a gain or loss in 2021.
Gains/(losses) on sales of OREO: The Company 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 the Company finances the sale of OREO to the buyer, the Company assesses whether the buyer is committed to perform its 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, the Company adjusts the transaction price and related gain/(loss) on sale if a significant financing component is present. The Company did not record a gain or loss in 2023 or 2022. The Company recorded a gain on sale of OREO of $51,000 for 2021.
Other: All of the other income items are outside the scope of ASC 606.
10. OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES
The following table presents the major components of other operating expenses for the years ended December 31:
(In thousands)
Professional and legal fees
$
5,710
$
5,062
$
5,343
Trust department expense
3,837
3,570
3,531
Telephone
1,531
1,460
1,323
Advertising
1,872
1,882
1,288
Amortization of intangible assets
1,319
1,569
1,598
Branch restructure
Write-off of subordinated debt costs
-
-
Other operating expenses
10,258
9,249
8,865
Total other operating expenses
$
25,092
$
22,993
$
22,824
11. INCOME TAXES
The income tax expense included in the consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31 is allocated as follows:
(In thousands)
Federal:
Current expense
$
25,814
$
27,228
$
7,400
Deferred (benefit)/expense
(11,862
)
(7,817
)
7,971
State:
Current expense
7,889
7,511
4,188
Deferred (benefit)/expense
(3,414
)
1,176
1,481
Total income tax expense
$
18,427
$
28,098
$
21,040
Total income tax expense differed from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. Federal income tax rate of 21 percent for 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively, to income before taxes as a result of the following:
(In thousands)
"Tax expense computed at applicable statutory rate"
$
14,129
$
21,513
$
16,309
(Decrease)/increase in taxes resulting from:
Tax-exempt income
(261
)
(236
)
(146
)
State income taxes, net of Federal benefit
3,535
7,109
4,789
Bank owned life insurance income
(266
)
(261
)
(356
)
Life insurance expense
Interest disallowance
Meals and entertainment expense
Stock-based compensation
(130
)
Other
(58
)
Total income tax expense
$
18,427
$
28,098
$
21,040
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of December 31 are as follows:
(In thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
Allowance for credit losses
$
17,540
$
14,924
Tax net operating loss carryforward
Capital loss carryforward
1,763
-
Organization costs
Unrealized loss on securities available for sale
25,408
25,424
Unrealized loss on equity security
Stock compensation expense
2,621
3,084
Nonaccrual interest
Accrued compensation
7,201
5,277
Accrued expenses
1,079
Lease liabilities
3,328
3,598
Finance lease
1,072
Other
1,080
Total gross deferred tax assets
$
61,564
$
56,310
Deferred tax liabilities:
Lease financing
$
48,002
$
58,382
Cash flow hedge
1,883
2,528
Deferred loan origination costs and fees
1,878
1,827
Deferred income
4,479
4,608
Amortization of intangible assets
1,245
Lease right-of-use asset
3,126
3,379
Other
Total gross deferred tax liabilities
61,059
71,742
Net deferred tax asset/(liability)
$
$
(15,432
)
Based upon taxes paid and projected future taxable income, Management believes that it is more likely than not that the Company’s gross deferred tax assets will be realized. However, there can be no assurance that such assets will be realized if circumstances change.
At December 31, 2023, the Company had $5.1 million of state net operating loss ("NOL") carryforward available to offset future taxable income. These operating loss carryforwards have various expirations beginning in 2032. At December 31, 2022, the Company had a state NOL carryforward of $14.5 million. At December 31, 2022, the Company had no unrecognized tax benefits. The Company recognizes interest accrued related to uncertain tax positions and penalties as income tax expense.
On July 1, 2018, New Jersey established a 2.5 percent surtax on businesses that have New Jersey allocated net income in excess of $1.0 million. The surtax was effective as of January 1, 2018 and continued through 2020. In September 2020, New Jersey extended the surtax through December 31, 2023. On July 3, 2023, New Jersey enacted comprehensive tax legislation which included the expiration of the 2.5 percent surtax as of December 31, 2023. The Bank made an adjustment to income tax expense and deferred tax assets/liabilities to reflect the new state tax rate.
The Company is subject to U.S. Federal income tax as well as income tax of various state jurisdictions. The Company is no longer subject to federal examination for tax years prior to 2020 or by state and local tax authorities for years prior to 2019. The tax years of 2020, 2021 and 2022 remain open to federal examination.
12. BENEFIT PLANS
The Company sponsors a profit sharing plan and a savings plan under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code, covering substantially all salaried employees over the age of 21 with at least 12 months of service. The Company contributed three percent of compensation for each employee regardless of the employees’ contributions for both the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. The Company contributed two percent of compensation for each employee regardless of the employees’ contributions for the year ended December 31, 2021. In addition, the Company partially matches employee contributions up
to three percent. Expense for the savings plan totaled $3.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, $3.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, and $2.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Additional contributions to the profit sharing plan are made at the discretion of the Board of Directors and all funds are invested solely in Company common stock. The Company did not make additional contributions to the profit sharing plan in 2023, 2022 or 2021.
13. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company’s 2021 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan allows the granting of shares of the Company’s common stock as incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units and stock appreciation rights to directors, officers and employees of the Company and its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2023, the total number of shares available for grant in all active plans was 809,502. There are no shares remaining for issuance with respect to the stock option plans approved in 2006 and 2012; however, options granted under these plans are still included in the numbers below.
Options granted under the stock incentive plans are, in general, exercisable not earlier than one year after the date of grant, at a price equal to the fair value of the common stock on the date of grant and expire not more than ten years after the date of grant. Stock options may vest during a period of up to five years after the date of grant. The Company has a policy of using authorized but unissued shares to satisfy option exercises.
Upon adoption of Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-09, “Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718), Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting,” the Company has elected to account for forfeitures as they occur, rather than estimate expected forfeitures.
Changes in options outstanding during 2023 were as follows:
Weighted
Weighted
Average
Aggregate
Average
Remaining
Intrinsic
Number of
Exercise
Contractual
Value
Options
Price
Term
(In Thousands)
Balance, January 1, 2023
6,800
$
16.53
Exercised during 2023
(2,600
)
16.76
Expired during 2023
(2,600
)
14.85
Forfeited during 2023
(200
)
17.14
Balance, December 31, 2023
1,400
$
19.15
0.01 years
$
Vested and expected to vest
1,400
$
19.15
0.01 years
$
Exercisable at December 31, 2023
1,400
$
19.15
0.01 years
$
The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value (the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of 2023 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options). The Company’s closing stock price on December 31, 2023 was $29.82.
There were no stock options granted in 2023.
As of December 31, 2023, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements granted under the Company’s stock incentive plans.
The Company issued service-based and performance-based restricted stock units in 2023, 2022 and 2021. Service-based units vest ratably over a three- or five-year period. There were 271,387 service-based restricted stock units granted during 2023.
The performance-based awards are dependent upon the Company meeting certain performance criteria and, to the extent the performance criteria are met, will cliff vest at the end of the performance period, which is generally three years. There were 126,821 performance-based restricted units granted during 2023.
As of December 31, 2023, there was $14.9 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to both service- and performance-based units. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.18 years. Total stock-based compensation expense recognized for stock awards/units totaled $10.7 million, $7.8 million and $7.1 million in 2023,
2022 and 2021, respectively. There was no stock-based compensation expense related to stock options for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Changes in non-vested shares dependent on performance criteria for 2023 were as follows:
Weighted
Average
Number of
Grant Date
Shares
Fair Value
Balance, January 1, 2023
233,556
$
23.77
Granted during 2023
126,821
26.81
Vested during 2023
(183,766
)
17.60
Forfeited during 2023
(247
)
13.44
Balance, December 31, 2023
176,364
$
32.40
Changes in service based restricted stock units for 2023 were as follows:
Weighted
Average
Number of
Grant Date
Shares
Fair Value
Balance, January 1, 2023
621,170
$
27.50
Granted during 2023
271,387
30.94
Vested during 2023
(250,234
)
25.92
Forfeited during 2023
(15,581
)
27.50
Balance, December 31, 2023
626,742
$
29.62
14. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
The Company, in the ordinary course of business, is a party to litigation arising from the conduct of its business. Management does not consider that these actions depart from routine legal proceedings and believes that such actions will not affect its financial position or results of its operations in any material manner.
There are various outstanding commitments and contingencies, such as guarantees and credit extensions, including mostly variable-rate loan commitments of $1.1 billion and $996.7 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which are not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. These commitments include unused commercial and home equity lines of credit.
The Company issues financial standby letters of credit that are irrevocable undertakings by the Company to guarantee payment of a specified financial obligation. Most of the Company’s financial standby letters of credit arise in connection with lending relations and have terms of one year or less. The maximum potential future payments the Company could be required to make equal the contract amount of the standby letters of credit and amounted to $23.3 million and $20.2 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The fair value of the Company’s liability for financial standby letters of credit was insignificant at December 31, 2023.
For commitments to originate loans, the Company’s maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. Those commitments represent ultimate exposure to credit risk only to the extent that they are subsequently drawn upon by customers. The Company uses the same credit policies and underwriting standards in making loan commitments as it does for on-balance-sheet instruments. For loan commitments, the Company would generally be exposed to interest rate risk from the time a commitment is issued with a defined contractual interest rate.
The Company is also obligated under legally binding and enforceable agreements to purchase goods and services from third parties, including data processing service agreements.
The Company is a limited partner in several Small Business Investment Company (“SBIC”) funds. The Company had unfunded commitments of $10.3 million and $11.3 million for its investment in SBIC qualified funds at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
15. LEASES
The Company maintains certain property and equipment under direct financing and operating leases. As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s operating lease ROU asset and operating lease liability totaled $12.1 million and $12.9 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2022, the Company’s operating lease ROU asset and operating lease liability totaled $12.9 million and $13.7 million, respectively. A weighted average discount rate of 2.72 percent and 2.63 percent was used in the measurement of the ROU asset and lease liability as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The Company's leases had remaining lease terms between four months to 13 years, with a weighted average lease term of 6.75 years, at December 31, 2023. The Company's leases had remaining lease terms between three months to 14 years, with a weighted average lease term of 7.48 years, at December 31, 2022. The Company’s lease agreements may include options to extend or terminate the lease. The Company’s decision to exercise renewal options is based on an assessment of its current business needs and market factors at the time of the renewal.
Total operating lease costs were $3.2 million and $3.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The variable lease costs were $260,000 and $305,000 for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The following is a schedule of the Company's operating lease liabilities by contractual maturity as of December 31, 2023:
(In thousands)
$
3,131
2,434
1,807
1,451
1,265
Thereafter
4,103
Total lease payments
14,191
Less: imputed interest
1,315
Total present value of lease payments
$
12,876
The following table shows the supplemental cash flow information related to the Company’s direct finance and operating leases for the years ended December 31:
(In thousands)
Right-of-use asset obtained in exchange for lease obligation
$
1,926
$
5,909
Operating cash flows from operating leases
2,902
2,656
Operating cash flows from direct finance leases
Financing cash flows from direct finance leases
16. REGULATORY CAPITAL
Banks and bank holding companies are subject to regulatory capital requirements administered by federal banking agencies. Capital adequacy guidelines and, additionally for banks, prompt corrective action regulations, involve quantitative measures of assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by regulators. 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 effect on the Company’s and the Bank’s financial statements and results of operations. The final rules implementing Basel Committee on Banking Supervision’s capital guidelines for U.S. banks (Basel III rules) became effective for the Company on January 1, 2015, with full compliance of all the requirements being fully phased in on January 1, 2019. The Company has chosen to exclude net unrealized gain or loss on available for sale securities in computing regulatory capital. Management believes that as of December 31, 2023, the Company and the Bank meet all capital adequacy requirements to which they were subject at that date.
Prompt corrective action regulations provide five classifications: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized, and critically undercapitalized, although these terms are not used to represent overall financial condition. If adequately capitalized, regulatory approval is required to accept brokered deposits. If undercapitalized, capital distributions are limited, as is asset growth and expansion, and capital restoration plans are required. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the most recent regulatory notifications categorized the Bank as well capitalized under the regulatory framework
for prompt corrective action. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the institution’s category.
To be categorized as well capitalized, the Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I risk-based, common equity Tier 1 and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table.
The Bank’s regulatory capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:
To Be Well
For Capital
Capitalized Under
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
Prompt Corrective
Adequacy
Including Capital
Actual
Action Provisions
Purposes
Conservation Buffer (A)
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
As of December 31, 2023:
Total capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
$
773,083
14.73
%
$
525,001
10.00
%
$
420,001
8.00
%
$
551,251
10.50
%
Tier I capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
707,446
13.48
420,001
8.00
315,000
6.00
446,251
8.50
Common equity tier I
(to risk-weighted assets)
707,434
13.47
341,250
6.50
236,250
4.50
367,500
7.00
Tier I capital
(to average assets)
707,446
10.83
326,507
5.00
261,205
4.00
261,205
4.00
As of December 31, 2022:
Total capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
$
741,719
14.67
%
$
505,760
10.00
%
$
404,608
8.00
%
$
531,048
10.50
%
Tier I capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
680,137
13.45
404,608
8.00
303,456
6.00
429,896
8.50
Common equity tier I
(to risk-weighted assets)
680,119
13.45
328,744
6.50
227,592
4.50
354,032
7.00
Tier I capital
(to average assets)
680,137
10.85
313,328
5.00
250,662
4.00
250,662
4.00
(A) See footnote on following table.
The Company’s regulatory capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table:
To Be Well
For Capital
Capitalized Under
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
Prompt Corrective
Adequacy
Including Capital
Actual
Action Provisions
Purposes
Conservation Buffer (A)
(Dollars in thousands)
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
As of December 31, 2023:
Total capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
$
785,413
14.95
%
N/A
N/A
$
420,377
8.00
%
$
551,745
10.50
%
Tier I capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
600,444
11.43
N/A
N/A
315,283
6.00
446,651
8.50
Common equity tier I
(to risk-weighted assets)
600,432
11.43
N/A
N/A
236,462
4.50
367,830
7.00
Tier I capital
(to average assets)
600,444
9.19
N/A
N/A
261,358
4.00
261,358
4.00
As of December 31, 2022:
Total capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
$
745,197
14.73
%
N/A
N/A
$
404,830
8.00
%
$
531,340
10.50
%
Tier I capital
(to risk-weighted assets)
557,627
11.02
N/A
N/A
303,623
6.00
430,132
8.50
Common equity tier I
(to risk-weighted assets)
557,609
11.02
N/A
N/A
227,717
4.50
354,227
7.00
Tier I capital
(to average assets)
557,627
8.90
N/A
N/A
250,746
4.00
250,746
4.00
(A)The Basel Rules require the Company and the Bank to maintain a 2.5 percent “capital conservation buffer” on top of the minimum risk-weighted asset ratios. The capital conservation buffer is designed to absorb losses during periods of economic stress. Banking institutions with a ratio of (i) CET1 to risk-weighted assets, (ii) Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets or (iii) total capital to risk-weighted assets above the respective minimum but below the capital conservation buffer face constraints on dividends, equity repurchases and discretionary bonus payments to executive officers based on the amount of the shortfall.
17. DERIVATIVES
The Company utilizes interest rate swap agreements as part of its asset liability management strategy to help manage its interest rate risk position. The notional amount of the interest rate swaps does not represent amounts exchanged by the parties. The amount exchanged is determined by reference to the notional amount and the other terms of the individual interest rate swap agreements.
Interest Rate Swaps Designated as Cash Flow Hedges: Interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $310.0 million as of December 31, 2023 and $290.0 million as of December 31, 2022 were designated as cash flow hedges of certain interest-bearing deposits. On a quarterly basis, the Company performs a qualitative hedge effectiveness assessment. This assessment takes into consideration any adverse developments related to the counterparty’s risk of default and any negative events or circumstances that affect the factors that originally enabled the Company to assess that it could reasonably support, qualitatively, an expectation that the hedging relationship was and will continue to be highly effective. As of December 31, 2023, there were no events or market conditions that would result in hedge ineffectiveness. The aggregate fair value of the swaps is recorded in other assets/liabilities with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income. The amount included in accumulated other comprehensive income would be reclassified to current earnings should the hedges no longer be considered effective. The Company expects the hedges to remain fully effective during the remaining terms of the swaps.
The following table presents information about the interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
(Dollars in thousands)
Notional amount
$
310,000
$
290,000
Weighted average pay rate
2.22
%
1.71
%
Weighted average receive rate
4.14
%
2.78
%
Weighted average maturity
2.98 years
2.01 years
Unrealized gain/(loss), net
$
6,814
$
3,290
Number of contracts
December 31, 2023
Notional
Fair
(In thousands)
Amount
Value
Interest rate swaps related to interest-bearing
deposits
$
310,000
$
6,814
Total included in other assets
$
310,000
$
6,814
Total included in other liabilities
-
-
December 31, 2022
Notional
Fair
(In thousands)
Amount
Value
Interest rate swaps related to interest-bearing
deposits
$
290,000
$
3,290
Total included in other assets
290,000
3,290
Total included in other liabilities
-
-
Cash Flow Hedges
The following table presents the net gains/(losses) recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and the consolidated financial statements relating to the cash flow derivative instruments for the year ended December 31:
(In thousands)
Interest rate contracts
Gain/(loss) recognized in other comprehensive income (effective portion)
$
(2,391
)
$
12,884
Gain/(loss) reclassified from other comprehensive income to interest expense
-
-
Gain/(loss) recognized in other noninterest income
During the third quarter of 2022, the Company recognized an unrealized after-tax gain of $167,000 in accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) related to the termination of two interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges that were deemed ineffective. The gain has been fully amortized into earnings as of December 31, 2023.
Net interest income recorded on these swap transactions totaled $5.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Net interest income/expense for these swap transactions is reported as a component of interest expense. Net interest expense recorded on these swap transactions totaled $851,000 for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Derivatives Not Designated as Accounting Hedges
The Company offers facility specific/loan level swaps to its customers and offsets its exposure from such contracts by entering mirror image swaps with a financial institution/swap counterparty (loan level / back-to-back swap program). The customer accommodations and any offsetting swaps are treated as non-hedging derivative instruments which do not qualify for hedge accounting (“standalone derivatives”). The notional amount of the swaps does not represent amounts exchanged by the parties. The amount exchanged is determined by reference to the notional amount and the other terms of the individual contracts. The fair value of the swaps is recorded as both an asset and a liability, in other assets and other liabilities, respectively, in equal amounts for these transactions.
The accrued interest receivable and payable related to these swaps of $1.4 million and $1.1 million at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, is recorded in other assets and other liabilities.
Information about these swaps is as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Notional amount
$
545,983
$
612,211
Fair value
$
(22,452
)
$
(37,173
)
Weighted average pay rates
3.95
%
3.99
%
Weighted average receive rates
7.09
%
6.14
%
Weighted average maturity
3.93 years
4.68 years
Number of contracts
18. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
On January 28, 2022, the Company authorized the repurchase of up to 920,000 shares, or approximately 5 percent of its outstanding shares. The Company completed its 920,000 share repurchase at an average price of $35.12 for a total cost of $32.3 million under this program. On January 26, 2023 the Company authorized a new share repurchase program of up to 890,000 shares, or approximately 5 percent of its outstanding shares. The Company purchased 412,327 shares at an average price of $26.40 for a total cost of $10.9 million under this program.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company purchased 455,341 shares at an average price of $27.44 for a total cost of $12.5 million. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company purchased 930,977 shares at an average price of $35.15 for a total cost of $32.7 million.
The Dividend Reinvestment Plan of the Company (the “Reinvestment Plan”) allows shareholders of the Company to purchase additional shares of common stock using cash dividends without payment of any brokerage commissions or other charges. Shareholders may also make voluntary cash payments of up to $200,000 per quarter to purchase additional shares of common stock. Voluntary share purchases in the “Reinvestment Plan” can be filled from the Company’s authorized but unissued shares and/or in the open market, at the discretion of the Company. All shares purchased during 2023 and 2022 were purchased in the open market.
GAAP Capital was also impacted by a decrease in the unrealized loss of $9.3 million due to a slight decline in the medium-term Treasury yields during 2023.
19. BUSINESS SEGMENTS
The Company assesses its results among two operating segments, Banking and Peapack Private. Management uses certain methodologies to allocate income and expense to the business segments. A funds transfer pricing methodology is used to
assign interest income and interest expense. Certain indirect expenses are allocated to segments. These include support unit expenses such as technology and operations and other support functions. Taxes are allocated to each segment based on the effective rate for the period shown.
Banking
The Banking segment includes: commercial (includes C&I and equipment finance), commercial real estate, multifamily, residential and consumer lending activities; treasury management services; C&I advisory services; escrow management; deposit generation; operation of ATMs; telephone and internet banking services; merchant credit card services and customer support and sales.
Peapack Private
Peapack Private, which includes the operations of PGB Trust & Investments of Delaware, consists of: investment management services provided for individuals and institutions; personal trust services, including services as executor, trustee, administrator, custodian and guardian; and other financial planning, tax preparation and advisory services.
The following tables present the statements of income and total assets for the Company’s reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Wealth
(In thousands)
Banking
Management
Total
Net interest income
$
151,974
$
4,115
$
156,089
Noninterest income
16,653
56,925
73,578
Total income
168,627
61,040
229,667
Provision for credit losses
14,091
-
14,091
Compensation and benefits
71,099
29,425
100,524
Premises and equipment expense
16,674
3,059
19,733
FDIC expense
2,946
-
2,946
Other noninterest expense
16,275
8,817
25,092
Total noninterest expense
121,085
41,301
162,386
Income before income tax expense
47,542
19,739
67,281
Income tax expense
13,018
5,409
18,427
Net income
$
34,524
$
14,330
$
48,854
Total assets at period end
$
6,357,980
$
118,877
$
6,476,857
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Wealth
(In thousands)
Banking
Management
Total
Net interest income
$
167,893
$
8,187
$
176,080
Noninterest income
9,919
56,498
66,417
Total income
177,812
64,685
242,497
Provision for loan losses
6,353
-
6,353
Compensation and benefits
61,975
27,501
89,476
Premises and equipment expense
15,774
2,945
18,719
FDIC expense
1,939
-
1,939
Other noninterest expense
13,590
10,076
23,666
Total noninterest expense
99,631
40,522
140,153
Income before income tax expense
78,181
24,163
102,344
Income tax expense
21,453
6,645
28,098
Net income
$
56,728
$
17,518
$
74,246
Total assets at period end
$
6,256,664
$
96,929
$
6,353,593
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Wealth
(In thousands)
Banking
Management
Total
Net interest income
$
132,195
$
5,866
$
138,061
Noninterest income
17,342
54,901
72,243
Total income
149,537
60,767
210,304
Provision for loan losses
6,475
-
6,475
Compensation and benefits
56,970
24,894
81,864
Premises and equipment expense
14,805
2,360
17,165
FDIC expense
2,071
-
2,071
Other noninterest expense
14,407
10,660
25,067
Total noninterest expense
94,728
37,914
132,642
Income before income tax expense
54,809
22,853
77,662
Income tax expense
14,847
6,193
21,040
Net income
$
39,962
$
16,660
$
56,622
Total assets at period end
$
5,973,343
$
104,650
$
6,077,993
20. SUBORDINATED DEBT
In December 2017, the Company issued $35.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating subordinated notes (the “2017 Notes”) to certain institutional investors. The 2017 Notes are non-callable for five years, have a stated maturity of December 15, 2027, and had a fixed interest rate of 4.75 percent per year until December 15, 2022. From December 16, 2022, to the maturity date or early redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to a level equal to the then current three-month LIBOR rate plus 254 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears (which was 8.21 percent at December 31, 2023). Debt issuance costs incurred totaled $875,000 and are being amortized to maturity.
In December 2020, the Company issued $100.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed to floating subordinated notes (the “2020 Notes”) to certain institutional investors. The 2020 Notes are non-callable for five years, have a stated maturity of December 22, 2030, and bear interest at a fixed rate of 3.50 percent per year until December 22, 2025. From December 23, 2025, to the maturity date or early redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly to a level equal to the then current three-month SOFR plus 326 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears. Debt issuance costs incurred totaled $1.9 million and are being amortized to maturity.
The Company used the proceeds from the issuance of the 2020 Notes to refinance then-outstanding debt, for stock repurchases, acquisitions of wealth management firms, as well as other general corporate purposes.
Subordinated debt is presented net of issuance cost on the Consolidated Statements of Condition. The subordinated debt issuances are included in the Company’s regulatory total capital amount and ratio.
In connection with the issuance of the 2020 Notes, the Company obtained ratings from Kroll Bond Rating Agency (“KBRA”) and Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”). KBRA assigned investment grade rating of BBB- and Moody’s assigned investment grade rating of Baa3 for the 2020 Notes at the time of issuance.
21. ACQUISITIONS
The Company did not complete any acquisitions in 2023 or 2022. The Company completed one acquisition in 2021, supporting the overall wealth management strategy. The acquisition was not considered significant to the Company’s financial statements and therefore pro forma financial data and related disclosures are not included.
On July 1, 2021, the Company acquired Princeton Portfolio Strategies Group. The purchase price was comprised of cash and common stock. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of the identifiable net assets was recorded as goodwill and is deductible for tax purposes.
The fair value of the equity included as part of the consideration for the Company’s acquisition in 2021 was determined based on the closing price of the Company’s common shares on the acquisition date and totaled $333,000 for 2021.
The 2021 acquisition resulted in goodwill of $3.1 million as well as identifiable intangible assets. Identifiable intangible assets include trade name, customer relationships and non-compete agreements. No liabilities were assumed at these acquisition dates.
Goodwill on the Company’s consolidated statement of financial condition totaled $36.2 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022. Of the $36.2 million of goodwill, $563,000 relates to the Banking segment and $35.6 million relates to the Wealth Management segment.
During 2023, the Company conducted its annual impairment analysis in the third quarter and concluded that there was no impairment of goodwill.
The table below presents a roll forward of goodwill and intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
Identifiable
(In thousands)
Goodwill
Intangible Assets
Balance as of January 1, 2021
$
33,103
$
10,788
Acquisitions during the period
3,109
3,500
Amortization and impairment during the period
-
1,598
Balance as of December 31, 2021
$
36,212
$
12,690
Amortization and impairment during the period
-
1,569
Balance as of December 31, 2022
$
36,212
$
11,121
Amortization and impairment during the period
-
1,319
Balance as of December 31, 2023
$
36,212
$
9,802
Amortization expense related to identifiable intangible assets was $1.3 million for 2023 and $1.6 million for 2022 and 2021.
Estimated amortization expense for each of the next five years is shown in the table below.
(In thousands)
$
1,087
1,087
22. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS)
The following is a summary of the accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) balances, net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
Amount
Other
Reclassified
Comprehensive
Other
From
Income/(Loss)
Comprehensive
Accumulated
Year
Balance at
Income/(Loss)
Other
Ended
Balance at
January 1,
Before
Comprehensive
December 31,
December 31,
(In thousands)
Reclassifications
Income/(Loss)
Net unrealized holding gain/(loss) on
securities available for sale, net of tax
$
(80,972
)
$
11,163
$
-
$
11,163
$
(69,809
)
Gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges
6,761
(1,770
)
(60
)
(1,830
)
4,931
Accumulated other comprehensive
gain/(loss), net of tax
$
(74,211
)
$
9,393
$
(60
)
$
9,333
$
(64,878
)
Amount
Other
Reclassified
Comprehensive
Other
From
Income/(Loss)
Comprehensive
Accumulated
Year
Balance at
Income/(Loss)
Other
Ended
Balance at
January 1,
Before
Comprehensive
December 31,
December 31,
(In thousands)
Reclassifications
Income/(Loss)
Net unrealized holding gain/(loss) on
securities available for sale, net of tax
$
(9,873
)
$
(76,126
)
$
5,027
$
(71,099
)
$
(80,972
)
Gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges
(2,501
)
9,348
(86
)
9,262
6,761
Accumulated other comprehensive
gain/(loss), net of tax
$
(12,374
)
$
(66,778
)
$
4,941
$
(61,837
)
$
(74,211
)
Amount
Other
Reclassified
Comprehensive
Other
From
Income/(Loss)
Comprehensive
Accumulated
Year
Balance at
Income/(Loss)
Other
Ended
Balance at
January 1,
Before
Comprehensive
December 31,
December 31,
(In thousands)
Reclassifications
Income/(Loss)
Net unrealized holding gain/(loss) on
securities available for sale, net of tax
$
5,521
$
(15,394
)
$
-
$
(15,394
)
$
(9,873
)
Gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges
(6,913
)
3,806
4,412
(2,501
)
Accumulated other comprehensive
gain/(loss), net of tax
$
(1,392
)
$
(11,588
)
$
$
(10,982
)
$
(12,374
)
The following represents the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
Years Ended
December 31,
(In thousands)
Affected Line Item in Statements of Income
Unrealized gain/(losses) on securities available
for sale:
Reclassification adjustment for amounts included
in net income
$
-
$
6,609
$
-
Securities losses, net
Tax effect
-
(1,582
)
-
Income tax expense
Total reclassifications, net of tax
$
-
$
5,027
$
-
Unrealized gain/(losses) on cash flow
hedge derivatives:
Reclassification adjustment for amounts included
in net income
$
(84
)
$
(116
)
$
Interest expense/other income
Tax effect
(236
)
Income tax expense
Total reclassifications, net of tax
$
(60
)
$
(86
)
$
23. CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF PEAPACK-GLADSTONE FINANCIAL CORPORATION (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
STATEMENTS OF CONDITION
December 31,
(In thousands)
Assets
Cash
$
22,061
$
7,967
Interest-earning deposits
Total cash and cash equivalents
22,593
8,490
Investment in subsidiary
690,683
655,490
Other assets
4,498
2,356
Total assets
$
717,774
$
666,336
Liabilities
Subordinated debt
$
133,274
$
132,987
Other liabilities
Total liabilities
134,093
133,356
Shareholders’ equity
Common stock
17,831
17,513
Surplus
346,954
338,706
Treasury stock
(110,320
)
(97,826
)
Retained earnings
394,094
348,798
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(64,878
)
(74,211
)
Total shareholders’ equity
583,681
532,980
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
717,774
$
666,336
STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands)
Income
Dividend from Bank
$
37,415
$
23,000
$
-
Other income
-
Total income
37,425
23,002
-
Expenses
Interest expense
6,651
5,453
7,013
Other expenses
1,481
1,130
1,602
Total expenses
8,132
6,583
8,615
Income/(loss) before income tax benefit and
equity in undistributed earnings of Bank
29,293
16,419
(8,615
)
Income tax benefit
(2,224
)
(1,676
)
(2,340
)
Net income/(loss) before equity in undistributed earnings of Bank
31,517
18,095
(6,275
)
Equity in undistributed earnings of Bank/(dividends
in excess of earnings)
17,337
56,151
62,897
Net income
$
48,854
$
74,246
$
56,622
Other comprehensive income/(loss)
9,333
(61,837
)
(10,982
)
Comprehensive income
$
58,187
$
12,409
$
45,640
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31,
(In thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
$
48,854
$
74,246
$
56,622
Undistributed earnings of Bank
(17,337
)
(56,151
)
(62,897
)
Amortization of subordinated debt costs
1,002
Increase in other assets
(2,142
)
(1,676
)
(674
)
Increase/(decrease) in other liabilities
(192
)
(1,979
)
Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities
30,113
16,513
(7,926
)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital contribution to subsidiary
-
-
-
Net cash used in investing activities
-
-
-
Cash flows from financing activities:
Cash dividends paid on common stock
(3,558
)
(3,645
)
(3,775
)
Exercise of stock options, net of stock swaps
Repayments of subordinated debt
-
-
(50,000
)
Purchase of treasury shares
(12,494
)
(32,722
)
(28,627
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(16,010
)
(36,075
)
(82,215
)
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
14,103
(19,562
)
(90,141
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
8,490
28,052
118,193
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
22,593
$
8,490
$
28,052
24. SUPPLEMENTAL DATA (unaudited)
The following table sets forth certain unaudited quarterly financial data for the periods indicated:
Selected 2023 Quarterly Data:
(In thousands, except per share data)
March 31
June 30
September 30
December 31
Interest income
$
70,491
$
74,852
$
78,489
$
80,178
Interest expense
26,513
35,931
41,974
43,503
Net interest income
43,978
38,921
36,515
36,675
Provision for loan losses
1,513
1,696
5,856
5,026
Wealth management fee income
13,762
14,252
13,975
13,758
Fair value adjustment of CRA equity security
(209
)
(404
)
Other income
4,088
4,532
5,783
3,247
Operating expenses
35,574
37,692
37,413
37,616
Income before income tax expense
24,950
18,108
12,600
11,623
Income tax expense
6,595
4,963
3,845
3,024
Net income
$
18,355
$
13,145
$
8,755
$
8,599
Earnings per share-basic
$
1.03
$
0.73
$
0.49
$
0.48
Earnings per share-diluted
1.01
0.73
0.49
0.48
Selected 2022 Quarterly Data:
(In thousands, except per share data)
March 31
June 30
September 30
December 31
Interest income
$
44,140
$
48,520
$
55,013
$
64,202
Interest expense
4,518
5,627
9,488
16,162
Net interest income
39,622
42,893
45,525
48,040
Provision for loan losses
2,375
1,449
1,930
Wealth management fee income
14,834
13,891
12,943
12,983
Securities (losses)/gains, net
(6,609
)
-
-
-
Fair value adjustment of CRA equity security
(682
)
(475
)
(571
)
Other income
7,171
5,092
4,011
3,801
Operating expenses
34,169
32,659
33,560
33,412
Income before income tax expense
17,792
27,293
27,749
29,510
Income tax expense
4,351
7,193
7,623
8,931
Net income
$
13,441
$
20,100
$
20,126
$
20,579
Earnings per share-basic
$
0.73
$
1.10
$
1.11
$
1.15
Earnings per share-diluted
0.71
1.08
1.09
1.12

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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
Management’s Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company maintains “disclosure controls and procedures” which, consistent with Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is defined to mean controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the Company files or submits under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and to ensure that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s Management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
The Company’s Management, with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on such evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The Company’s Management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or our internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, provides reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. The design of a control system reflects resource constraints; the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because there are inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been or will be detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns occur because of simple error or mistake. 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. The design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events. There can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all future conditions; over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2023, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The Company’s Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s Management and Board of Directors regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. In addition, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
As of December 31, 2023, Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in 2013 Internal Control-Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (“COSO”) of the Treadway Commission. Management’s assessment included an evaluation of the design of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting and testing of the operating effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. Management reviewed the results of its assessment with the Audit and Risk Committees.
Based on this assessment, Management determined that, as of December 31, 2023, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Crowe LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the Company’s December 31, 2023 consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, has issued an audit report expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. The report is included in Item 8 under the heading “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.”

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

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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Item 10.	DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information set forth under the captions “Proposal 1 - Election of Directors - Nominee for Election as Directors,” “Corporate Governance - Committee of the Board of Directors - Audit Committee,” “- Code of Business Conduct and Conflict of Interest Policy and Corporate Governance Principles,” and “Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports” in the 2024 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
A copy of the Code of Business Conduct and Conflict of Interest Policy is available to shareholders on the “Governance Documents” section of the Investors Relations section of the Company’s website at www.pgbank.com.
Executive Officer
Age
Date Became an Executive Officer
Current Position and Business Experience
Douglas L. Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer
Frank A. Cavallaro
Chief Financial Officer
John P. Babcock
President of Private Wealth Management
Robert A. Plante
Chief Operating Officer
Gregory M. Smith
President of Commercial Banking
Mr. Kennedy joined the Bank in 2012 as Chief Executive Officer. He is a career banker with over 44 years of commercial banking experience. Previously, Mr. Kennedy served as Executive Vice President and Market President at Capital One Bank/North Fork and held key executive level positions with Summit Bank and Bank of America/Fleet Bank. Mr. Kennedy has a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and an M.B.A. from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut.
Mr. Cavallaro joined the Bank in October 2022 as Chief Financial Officer of the Company. Mr. Cavallaro had previously served as Chief Financial Officer of Republic First Bancorp, Inc. since 2009. Mr. Cavallaro, served as a vice president in the finance department for Commerce Bank, N.A. and its successor TD Bank, N.A., an American national bank, from 1997 to 2009. Mr. Cavallaro, a certified public accountant, has more than twenty-five years of experience in the financial services industry and, prior to that, three years of experience in public accounting with Ernst & Young LLP. Mr. Cavallaro has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from Rutgers University School of Business, Camden, New Jersey.
Mr. Babcock joined the Bank in 2014 as Senior Executive Vice President of the Bank and President of Private Wealth Management. Mr. Babcock has over 40 years of experience in commercial and wealth management/private bank businesses in New York City and regional markets through mergers, expansions, rapid growth and periods of significant organizational change. Prior to joining the Bank, Mr. Babcock was the managing director of the Northeast Mid-Atlantic region for the HSBC Private Bank. Mr. Babcock graduated from Tulane University’s A.B. Freeman School of Business and has an M.B.A. from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Babcock holds FINRA Series 7, 63 and 24 securities licenses.
Mr. Plante joined the Bank in 2017 as Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Plante previously served as Chief Operating Officer at Israel Discount Bank New York. Mr. Plante also served as Chief Information Officer at CIT Group and also held senior leadership positions at GE Capital Global Consumer Finance and with the Geary Corporation, a privately held IT consulting Company. Mr. Plante has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Finance, from the University of Vermont.
Mr. Smith joined the Bank in April 2019 as Executive Vice President, Head of Commercial Banking. Mr. Smith was promoted to President of Commercial Banking in January 2021 and oversees commercial banking across the organization including: C&I, commercial real estate and multifamily lending, equipment finance, investment banking and corporate advisory, the Bank’s platinum service team and professional services group, residential lending, the small business administration team, and treasury management and escrow services. Prior to joining the Bank, Mr. Smith served as group sales executive for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions for Capital One Bank and was also a senior regional vice president for Summit Bank. Mr. Smith has a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Fairleigh Dickinson University and an M.B.A in Business Administration from Rider University.

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ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Item 11.	EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information set forth under the captions “Executive Compensation,” “Director Compensation,” “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” and “Compensation Committee Report” in the 2024 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

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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 Equity Compensation Plan Information set forth under the caption “Proposal 3 - Approval of the Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2024 Employer Stock Purchase Plan” in the 2024 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Item 13.	CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information set forth under the captions “Transactions with Related Persons” and “Corporate Governance - Director Independence” in the 2024 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Item 14.	PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information set forth under the captions “Proposal 4 - Ratification of the Appointment of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” and “- Audit Committee Pre-Approval Procedures” in the 2024 Proxy Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV

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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
Item 15.	EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a)
Financial Statements and Schedules:
(1)
Consolidated Financial Statements of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
Consolidated Statements of Condition as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Consolidated Financial Statements of Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation as set forth in Item 8 of Part II of this Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 are incorporated by reference herein.
All financial statement schedules are omitted because they are either inapplicable or not required, or because the required information is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or notes thereto contained in this 2023 Annual Report.
(b)	Exhibits
(3)
Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws:
A.
Certificate of Incorporation as incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed on November 9, 2009 (SEC File No. 001-16197).
B.
By-Laws of the Registrant as in effect on the date of this filing are incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on March 23, 2023.
(4)
Instruments Defining the Rights of Security Holders
A.
Indenture, dated December 12, 2017, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on December 12, 2017.
B.
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 12, 2017, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on December 12, 2017.
C.
Indenture, dated as of December 22, 2020, by and between Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation and UMB Bank, National Association, as trustee is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on December 23, 2020 (SEC File No. 001-16197).
D.
Form of Subordinated Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 22, 2020, by and between Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation and the several Purchasers is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on December 23, 2020 (SEC File No. 001-16197).
E.
Form of Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 22, 2020, by and between Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation and the several Purchasers is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on December 23, 2020 (SEC File No. 001-16197).
F.
Description of Registrant’s Securities incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.E. of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2019.
(10) Material Contracts:
A.“Directors’ Retirement Plan” dated as of March 31, 2001, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(J) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2003 (SEC File No. 001-16197). +
B.“Directors’ Deferral Plan” dated as of March 31, 2001, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(K) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2003 (SEC File No. 001-16197). +
C.Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation Amended and Restated 2002 Stock Option Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant’s Form 8-K Current Report filed on January 13, 2006 (SEC File No. 001-16197). +
D.Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2006 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed on May 10, 2006 (SEC File No. 001-16197). +
E.(1) Form of Restricted Stock Agreement, (2) Form of Restricted Stock Agreement for Outside Directors, (3) Form of Time-Based/Performance-Based Restricted Stock Agreement (4) Form of Non-qualified Stock Option Agreement, (5) Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement and (6) Form of Non-qualified Stock Option Agreement for Outside Directors under the Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2012 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibits 10(H)(1), 10(H)(2), 10(H)(3), 10(H)(4), 10(H)(5) and 10(H)(6) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2014. +
F.(1) Form of Non-qualified Stock Option Agreement, (2) Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement, (3) Form of Non-qualified Stock Option Agreement for Outside Directors under the Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2006 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(I)(2), 10(I)(3) and 10(I)(4) of the Registrant’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. +
G.Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2012 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan, as amended and restated, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed on November 7, 2016.+
H.Form of Employment Agreement, dated as of August 5, 2021, by and among the Company, the Bank and each of Douglas L. Kennedy, John P. Babcock and Gregory M. Smith incorporated by reference into Exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed on August 9, 2021. +
I.Change in Control Agreement, dated as of August 5, 2021, by and among the Company, the Bank and Robert A. Plante incorporated by reference into Exhibit 10.3 of the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report filed on August 9, 2021. +
J.Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Retention Award Plan dated August 4, 2017, by and between Peapack-Gladstone Bank and Douglas L. Kennedy, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(A) from the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report for the quarter ended September 30, 2017. +
K.Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Retention Award Plan dated August 4, 2017, by and between Peapack-Gladstone Bank and John P. Babcock, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(C) from the Registrant’s Form 10-Q Quarterly Report for the quarter ended September 30, 2017. +
L.Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2021 Long-Term Incentive Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit A to the Registrant’s Definitive Proxy Statement for its 2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed on March 17, 2023. +
M.Form of Time-Based Restricted Stock Unit Agreement under the Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation 2021 Long-Term Incentive Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed on July 1, 2021. +
N.Employment Agreement, dated as of October 31, 2022, by and among Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corporation, Peapack-Gladstone Bank and Frank A. Cavallaro, incorporated by reference herein to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K Current Report filed on October 31, 2022. +
O.Retirement Transition Agreement for Robert A. Plante, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K Current Report filed on March 28, 2023. +
(21)	List of Subsidiaries:
(a) Subsidiaries of the Company:
Percentage of Voting
Jurisdiction
Securities Owned by
Name
of Incorporation
the Parent
Peapack-Gladstone Bank
New Jersey
100%
(b) Subsidiaries of the Bank:
Name
PGB Trust and Investments of Delaware
Delaware
100%
Peapack-Gladstone Mortgage Group
New Jersey
100%
BGP RRE Holdings, LLC
New Jersey
100%
BGP CRE Painter Farm, LLC
New Jersey
100%
BGP CRE Heritage, LLC
New Jersey
100%
BGP CRE K&P Holdings, LLC
New Jersey
100%
BGP CRE Office Property, LLC
New Jersey
100%
Peapack Ventures, LLC
Delaware
100%
Peapack-Gladstone Realty, Inc.
New Jersey
100%
Peapack Capital Corporation
New Jersey
100%
PGB Securities, LLC
New Jersey
100%
Peapack-Gladstone Financial Services, Inc. (Inactive)
New Jersey
100%
(23.1)
Consent of Crowe LLP
(24)
Power of Attorney
(31.1)
Certification of Douglas L. Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of Peapack-Gladstone, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
(31.2)
Certification of Frank A. Cavallaro, Chief Financial Officer of Peapack-Gladstone, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
(32)
Certification of Douglas L. Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of Peapack-Gladstone and Frank A. Cavallaro, Chief Financial Officer of Peapack-Gladstone pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
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).
101.SCH
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema With Embedded Linkbase Documents.
The cover page from Peapack-Gladstone’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, formatted in Inline XBRL and is included in Exhibits 101.
+ Management contract and compensatory plan or arrangement.