EDGAR 10-K Filing

Company CIK: 1730984
Filing Year: 2022
Filename: 1730984_10-K_2022_0001730984-22-000026.json

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ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Item 1. Business
The disclosures set forth in this item are qualified by “Item 1A. Risk Factors” below and the section captioned “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” above and other cautionary statements set forth elsewhere in this report.
Overview
General. BayCom is a bank holding company headquartered in Walnut Creek, California. BayCom’s wholly owned banking subsidiary, United Business Bank, provides a broad range of financial services to businesses and business owners as well as individuals through its network of 33 full-service branches, with 15 locations in California, two in Washington, five in New Mexico and 11 in Colorado. The Company’s business activities generally are limited to passive investment activities and oversight of its investment in the Bank. Accordingly, the information set forth in this report, including consolidated financial statements and related data, relate primarily to the Bank.
Our principal objective is to continue to increase shareholder value and generate consistent earnings growth by expanding our commercial banking franchise through both strategic acquisitions and organic growth. Since 2010, we have expanded our geographic footprint through nine strategic acquisitions. We believe our strategy of selectively acquiring and integrating community banks has provided us with economies of scale and improved our overall franchise efficiency. Looking forward, we expect to continue to pursue strategic acquisitions and believe our targeted market areas present us with many and varied acquisition opportunities. We are also focused on continuing to grow organically and believe the metropolitan and community markets in which we operate currently provide meaningful opportunities to expand our commercial client base and increase both interest-earning assets and market share. We believe our geographic footprint, which now includes the San Francisco Bay area, the metropolitan markets of Los Angeles, California, Seattle, Washington, and Denver, Colorado, and community markets including Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Custer, Delta, and Grand counties, Colorado, provides us with access to low cost, stable core deposits in community markets that we can use to fund commercial loan growth. We strive to provide an enhanced banking experience for our clients by providing them with a comprehensive suite of sophisticated banking products and services tailored to meet their needs, while delivering the high-quality, relationship-based client service of a community bank. As of December 31, 2021, we had, on a consolidated basis, total assets of $2.4 billion, total deposits of $2.0 billion, total loans of $1.7 billion (net of allowances) and total shareholders’ equity of $262.6 million.
We continue to focus on growing our commercial loan portfolios through acquisitions as well as organic growth. At December 31, 2021, our $1.7 billion total loan portfolio included $414.0 million, or 24.8%, of acquired loans (all of which were recorded to their estimated fair values at the time of acquisition), and the remaining $1.3 billion, or 75.2%, consisted of loans we originated. During the last two years the Bank participated in the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”), a guaranteed unsecured loan program enacted under the CARES Act to provide near-term relief to help small businesses impacted by COVID-19 sustain operations. The PPP ended on May 31, 2021. Under this program we began processing applications for loan forgiveness in the fourth quarter of 2020. At December 31, 2021, there were 323 PPP loans outstanding totaling $69.6 million, as compared to 1,330 PPP loans totaling $135.6 million at December 31, 2020.
The profitability of our operations depends primarily on our net interest income after provision for loan losses, which is the difference between interest earned on interest earning assets and interest paid on interest bearing liabilities less provision for loan losses. Our net income is also affected by other factors, including the provision for credit losses on loans, noninterest income and noninterest expense.
Our History and Growth. In January 2017, the Company became the holding company for the Bank. The Bank commenced banking operations as Bay Commercial Bank in July 2004 and changed the name to United Business Bank in April 2017, following our acquisition of United Business Bank, FSB in April 2017.
The Bank was founded in March 2004 as a California state chartered commercial bank, by a group of Walnut Creek business and community leaders, including George Guarini, who serves as our Chief Executive Officer. The severe economic recession beginning in 2008 and the ongoing consolidation in the banking industry created an opportunity for our management team and board to build an attractive commercial banking franchise and create long-term value for our shareholders by employing an acquisition strategy that focuses on opportunities that grow our product portfolio and expand the business geographically.
Since 2010, we have implemented our vision of becoming a strategic consolidator of community banks and a destination for seasoned bankers and businesspersons who share our entrepreneurial spirit. While not without risk, we believe there are certain advantages resulting from mergers and acquisitions. These advantages include, among others, the diversification of our loan portfolio with seasoned loans, the expansion of our market areas and an effective method to augment our growth and risk management infrastructure through the retention of local lending personnel and credit administration personnel to manage the client relationships of the banks being acquired.
We believe we have a successful track record of selectively acquiring, integrating and consolidating community banks. Since 2010, we have completed nine acquisitions with aggregate total assets of approximately $1.8 billion and total deposits of approximately $1.5 billion. We have sought to integrate the banks we acquire into our existing operational platform and enhance shareholder value through the creation of efficiencies within the combined operations.
In April 2017, we completed our largest acquisition to date when we acquired First ULB Corp (“FULB”), the holding company for United Business Bank, FSB, headquartered in Oakland, California. This acquisition increased our deposits by approximately $428.0 million. At the time of acquisition, United Business Bank, FSB had total assets of approximately $473.1 million, which significantly increased our total asset size and provided us with nine full-service banking offices in Long Beach, Oakland, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Jose and Glendale, California; and Seattle, Washington and Albuquerque, New Mexico. This acquisition significantly increased our total asset size, expanded our geographic footprint and added low cost, stable deposits associated with a strong network of relationship with labor unions.
In November 2017, we acquired Plaza Bank, with one branch located in Seattle, Washington. At the time of the acquisition, Plaza Bank had approximately $75.8 million in total assets and $54.2 million in deposits.
In November 2018, we acquired Bethlehem Financial Corporation (“BFC”), the holding company for MyBank, headquartered in Belin, New Mexico, and paid a total of $23.5 million in cash for all of the outstanding equity securities of BFC. MyBank operated through five branches serving Central New Mexico. At the time of acquisition, MyBank had approximately $157.8 million in total assets and $135.5 million in deposits.
In May 2019, we acquired Uniti Financial Corporation (“UFC”), the holding company for Uniti Bank, headquartered in Buena Park, California, which had three branch offices located in Southern California. At the time of acquisition, UFC had approximately $318.0 million in total assets and $265.8 million in deposits.
In October 2019, we acquired TIG Bancorp (“TIG”), the holding company for First State Bank of Colorado, headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colorado, which had seven branch offices and serves the Denver metropolitan area and other Colorado communities. At the time of acquisition, TIG had approximately $235.6 million in total assets and $202.8 million in total deposits.
In February 2020, we acquired Grand Mountain Bancshares, Inc. (“GMB”), the holding company for Grand Mountain Bank, headquartered in Granby, Colorado, which had four branch locations across Grand County and a loan office in Summit County, Colorado. At the time of acquisition, GMB had approximately $130.9 million in total assets and $118.1 million in deposits.
Recent Developments.
In February 2022, we acquired PEB, the holding company for Pacific Enterprise Bank, which had one branch location located in Irvine, California. At the time of acquisition, PEB had approximately $441.0 million in assets, $411.6 million in loans, $375.8 million in deposits and $61.4 million in stockholders’ equity.
Our Markets
We target our services to small and medium-sized businesses, professional firms, real estate professionals, nonprofit businesses, labor unions and related nonprofit entities and businesses and individual consumers. As of December 31, 2021, including our principal executive offices, we operate a total of 33 full-service banking branches consisting of branch offices in Northern and Southern California; Denver, Colorado, and Custer, Delta, and Grand counties, Colorado; Seattle, Washington and Central New Mexico. We believe this diverse geographic footprint provides us with access to low cost, stable core deposits in community markets that we can use to fund commercial loan growth in our metropolitan markets.
We generally lend in markets where we have a physical presence through our branch offices. A majority of our branches are located in the San Francisco Bay Area which includes the counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma, California. We operate primarily in the San Francisco- Oakland-Hayward, and the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, California Metropolitan Statistical Areas (“MSA”) with additional operations in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, California MSA, with borrowers or properties located in Northern California comprising 35.4% and Southern California comprising 34.8% of our loan portfolio as of December 31, 2021. In addition, deposits located in California comprised 62.9% of total deposits as of December 31, 2021.
With a population of approximately 4.7 million, the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward MSA represents the second most populous area in California and the twelfth largest in the United States. In addition to its current size, the market also demonstrates key characteristics we believe provide the opportunity for additional growth, with a median household income of $114,696 versus a national average of $67,521, and the third highest population density in the nation.
The San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara MSA also demonstrates key characteristics that provide us growth opportunities, including a population of approximately $2.0 million and a median household income of $130,865.
The Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, California MSA, with over $13 million residents, is the largest MSA in California, the second largest MSA in the United States, and one of the most significant business markets in the world. It is estimated that the greater Los Angeles area has a gross domestic product of approximately $1 trillion, which would rank it as the 18th largest economy in the world. The economic base of the area is heavily dependent on small and medium-sized businesses, providing us with a market rich in potential customers. We believe the market’s median household income of $78,908, large concentration of small and medium-sized businesses, and its highest population density in the nation position the area as an attractive market in which to expand operations.
We serve the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue MSA, which includes King County (which includes the city of Seattle), through two branch offices. We serve the Albuquerque MSA, in Central New Mexico the most populous city in the state of New Mexico through five branch offices we acquired from FULB and BFC, in 2017 and 2018, respectively. We serve the Denver MSA and the Colorado communities in Custer, Delta, and Grand counties through eleven branch offices. As of December 31, 2021, borrowers or properties located outside of California in the states of Colorado, New Mexico and Washington represented 7.4%, 4.2% and 5.2% of our loan portfolio, respectively. As of December 31, 2021, deposits located outside of California in the states of Colorado, New Mexico and Washington comprised 17.0%, 8.4% and 7.8% of total deposits, respectively.
Lending
We provide a comprehensive suite of financial solutions that competes with large, national competitors, but with the personalized attention and nimbleness of a relationship-focused community bank. We provide our commercial clients with a diverse array of cash management services.
A general description of the range of commercial banking products and other services we offer follows.
Lending Activities. We offer a full range of lending products, including commercial and multifamily real estate loans (including owner-occupied and investor real estate loans), commercial and industrial loans (including equipment loans and working capital lines of credit), SBA loans including income producing real estate loans and small business loans under the SBA 7(a) and 504 loan programs, construction and land loans, agriculture-related loans and consumer loans. Our preference is for owner-occupied real estate and commercial and industrial loans. We also offer consumer loans predominantly as an accommodation to our commercial clients, which include installment loans, unsecured and secured personal lines of credit, and overdraft protection. Lending activities originate from the relationships and efforts of our bankers. We are a preferred lender under the SBA loan program.
We may periodically purchase whole loans and loan participation interests or participate in syndicates originating new loans, including shared national credits, primarily during periods of reduced loan demand in our primary market areas and at times to support our Community Reinvestment Act lending activities. Any such purchases or loan participations are made generally consistent with our underwriting standards; however, the loans may be located outside of our normal lending areas. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, we purchased $152.0 million and $188.3 million, respectively, of loans and loan participation interests, principally commercial and industrial loans and multifamily real estate loans.
We are a business-focused community bank, serving small and medium-sized businesses, trade unions and their related businesses, entrepreneurs and professionals located in our markets. We do not target any specific industries or business segments, rather we look to the quality of the client relationship. We attempt to differentiate ourselves by having an attentive and focused approach to our clients and utilizing, to the fullest extent possible, the flexibility that results from being an independently owned and operated bank. We focus on establishing and building strong financial relationships with our clients, using a trusted advisor and relationship approach. We emphasize personalized “relationship banking,” where the relationship is predicated on ongoing client contact, client access to decision makers, and our understanding of the clients’ business, market and competition which allows us to better meet the needs of our clients.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Bank participated in the SBA PPP, a guaranteed unsecured loan program enacted under the CARES Act, enacted March 27, 2020, to provide near-term relief to help small businesses impacted by COVID-19 sustain operations. The deadline for PPP loan applications to the SBA was initially August 8, 2020. As of December 31, 2021, we had received SBA forgiveness for 1,794 PPP loans totaling $164.8 million resulting in 306 PPP loans remaining with an aggregate balance of $69.6 million. As of December 31, 2020, we had received SBA forgiveness for 29 PPP loans totaling $5.9 million resulting in a remaining 1,330 PPP loans with an aggregate balance of $135.6 million.
At December 31, 2021, we had net loans of $1.6 billion, representing 70.1% of our total assets. For additional information concerning our loan portfolio, see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020 - Loans”, contained in this report.
Concentrations of Credit Risk. The largest portion of our loan portfolio represents lending conducted with businesses and individuals in the San Francisco Bay Area. Our loan portfolio consists primarily of commercial real estate loans (including multifamily) and construction loans, which totaled $1.3 billion and constituted 78.8% of total loans as of December 31, 2021. Commercial and industrial loans, including PPP loans, totaled $230.2 million and constituted 13.8% of total loans as of December 31, 2021. Our commercial real estate loans are generally secured by first liens on real property. The commercial and industrial loans are typically secured by general business assets, accounts receivable inventory and/or the corporate guaranty of the borrower and personal guaranty of its principals. The geographic concentration of our loans subjects our business to the general economic conditions within California, Colorado, New Mexico and Washington. The risks created by such concentrations have been considered by management in the determination of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. Management believes the allowance for loan losses is adequate to cover probable incurred losses in our loan portfolio as of December 31, 2021.
Comprehensive risk management practices and appropriate capital levels are essential elements of a sound commercial real estate lending program. A concentration in commercial real estate adds a dimension of risk that compounds the risk inherent in individual loans. Interagency bank guidance on commercial real estate concentrations describes sound risk management practices which include board and management oversight, portfolio management, management information systems, market analysis, portfolio stress testing and sensitivity analysis, credit underwriting standards and credit risk review functions. Management believes it has implemented these practices in order to monitor the commercial real estate concentrations in our loan portfolio.
Large Credit Relationships. As of December 31, 2021, the aggregate amount of loans to our 10 and 25 largest borrowers (including related entities) amounted to approximately $148.4 million, or 8.9% of total loans, and $262.3 million, or 15.7% of total loans, respectively. The table below shows our five largest borrowing relationships as of December 31, 2021 in descending order. Each of the loans in these borrowing relationships is currently performing in accordance with the loan repayment terms as of December 31, 2021.
Loan Type
Number of
Commercial &
CRE Non-Owner
Total
Borrower Type
loans
Industrial
Occupied
Single Family
Total
Commitment
(Dollars in thousands)
Real estate investor
$
-
$
-
$
22,895
$
22,895
$
27,000
Commercial real estate investor
-
18,828
-
18,828
24,055
Commercial real estate investor
-
23,500
-
23,500
23,500
Commercial real estate investor
1,654
-
-
1,654
15,000
Commercial real estate investor
-
11,480
-
11,480
11,480
Total
$
1,654
$
53,808
$
22,895
$
78,357
$
101,035
Loan Underwriting and Approval. Our current loan origination activities are governed by established policies and procedures intended to mitigate the risks inherent to the types of collateral and borrowers financed by us. These policies provide a general framework for our loan origination, monitoring and funding activities, while recognizing that not all risks can be anticipated. The Bank’s Board of Directors and senior management establish, review, and modify the Bank’s lending policies. The Bank’s lending policies are updated annually and approved by the Board of Directors. It prescribes underwriting guidelines and procedures for all loan categories in which the Bank participates to establish risk tolerance and parameters that are communicated throughout the Bank to ensure consistent and uniform lending practices. The underwriting guidelines include, among other things, approval limitation and hierarchy, documentation standards, loan-to-value limits, debt coverage ratio, overall credit-worthiness of the borrower, guarantor support, etc. Loan originations are obtained through a variety of sources, including existing clients, walk-in clients, referrals from brokers or existing clients, and advertising.
Our Board of Directors has granted loan approval authority to certain officers up to prescribed limits, depending on the officer’s experience, the type of loan and whether the loan is secured or unsecured. Our Board of Directors delegates loan approval authority up to board-approved limits to our Director Loan Committee, which is comprised of members of our Board of Directors.
Managing credit risk is an enterprise-wide process. The principal economic risk associated with each category of loans that we make is the creditworthiness of the borrower and the value of the underlying collateral, if any. Borrower creditworthiness is affected by general economic conditions and the strength of the relevant business market segment. We assess the lending risks, economic conditions and other relevant factors related to the quality of our loan portfolio in order to identify possible credit quality risks. Our strategy for credit risk management includes well-defined, centralized credit policies, uniform underwriting criteria and ongoing risk monitoring and review processes for all credit exposures. Our processes emphasize early-stage review of loans, regular credit evaluations and management reviews of loans, which supplement the ongoing and proactive credit monitoring and loan servicing provided by our bankers.
The Bank’s lending and credit policies require management to regularly review the Bank’s loan portfolio so that the Bank can monitor the quality of its assets. If during the ordinary course of business, management becomes aware that a borrower may not be able to meet the contractual payment obligations under a loan, then such policies require that the
loan be supervised more closely with consideration given to, among other things, placing the loan on non-accrual status, requiring additional allowance for loan losses, and (if appropriate) charging-off a part or all of the loan. Potential problem loans are those loans that are currently accruing interest and are not considered impaired, but which we are monitoring because the financial information of the borrower causes us concern as to their ability to comply with their loan repayment terms. We attempt to identify potential problem loans early in an effort to seek aggressive resolution of these situations before the loans become a loss, record any necessary charge-offs promptly and maintain adequate allowance levels for probable loan losses inherent in the loan portfolio. Results of loan reviews by consultants as well as examination of the loan portfolio by state and federal regulators are also considered by management and the board in determining the level of the allowance for loan losses.
General economic factors affecting a borrower’s ability to repay include interest, inflation and unemployment rates, as well as other factors affecting a borrower’s clients, suppliers and employees. The well- established financial institutions in our primary markets make proportionately more loans to medium-to- large-sized businesses than we originate. Many of our commercial loans are, or will likely be, made to small- to-medium-sized businesses that may be less able to withstand competitive, economic and financial pressures than larger borrowers.
Our loan policies provide general guidelines for loan-to-value ratios that restrict the size of loans to a maximum percentage of the value of the collateral securing the loans, which varies by the type of collateral. Our internal loan-to-value limitations follow limits established by applicable law. Exceptions are fully disclosed to the approving authority, either an individual officer or the appropriate management or board committee prior to commitment. Exceptions are reported to the Board of Directors quarterly.
Lending Limits. Our lending activities are subject to a variety of lending limits imposed by federal and state law. In general, we are subject to a legal lending limit on loans to a single borrower based on the Bank’s capital level. The dollar amounts of our lending limit increases or decreases as the Bank’s capital increases or decreases. We are able to sell participations in its larger loans to other financial institutions, which allows us to manage the risk involved in these loans and to meet the lending needs of its clients requiring extensions of credit in excess of these limits. We have strict policies and procedures in place for the establishment of limits with respect to specific products and businesses and evaluating exceptions to the internal limits for individual relationships. Exceptions to our policies are allowed only with the prior approval of the Board of Directors and if the borrower exhibits financial strength or sufficient, measurable compensating factors exist after consideration of the loan-to-value ratio, borrower’s financial condition, net worth, credit history, earnings capacity, installment obligations, and current payment history. At December 31, 2021, our authorized legal lending limit for loans to one borrower was $40.3 million for unsecured loans (or 15% of total risk-based capital) and $67.2 million (or 25% of total risk-based capital) for specific secured loans. Currently, we maintain an in-house limit of $8.9 million for unsecured loans and $14.8 million for secured loans. At December 31, 2021, there were five loans to an aggregate of five individuals or entities or related interests that exceeded these internal limits.
Loan Types. We provide a variety of loans to meet our clients’ needs. The real estate portion of our loan portfolio is comprised of the following: mortgage loans secured typically by commercial and multifamily properties; construction and land loans; and mortgages and revolving lines of credit secured by equity in residential properties. At December 31, 2021, we held $1.4 billion in loans secured by real estate, representing 85.9% of total loans receivable, and a total of $43.7 million in undisbursed real estate related commitments. The types of our loans are described below:
Commercial Real Estate Loans. Our commercial real estate loans include loans secured by office buildings, retail facilities, hotels, gas stations, convalescent facilities, industrial use buildings, restaurants, multifamily properties and agricultural real estate. At December 31, 2021, our commercial and multifamily real estate loan portfolio totaled $1.3 billion, or 78.0% of total loans.
Our commercial real estate loans may be owner-occupied or non-owner occupied. As of December 31, 2021, our commercial real estate loans, excluding loans secured by multifamily properties, consisted of $394.0 million of owner-occupied commercial real estate loans, or 23.6% of the total loan portfolio, and $698.7 million of non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans, or 41.9% of the total loan portfolio.
Commercial real estate secured loans generally carry higher interest rates and have shorter terms than one-to-four family residential real estate loans. Commercial real estate lending typically involves higher loan principal amount and the repayment of the loan is dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the properties securing the loans, to cover operating expenses and debt service. We require our commercial real estate loans to be secured by a property with adequate margins and generally obtain a guarantee from responsible parties. Our commercial real estate loans generally are collateralized by first liens on real estate, have interest rates which may be fixed for three to five years, or adjust annually. Commercial real estate loan terms generally are limited to 15 years or less, although payments may be structured on a longer amortization basis up to 20 years with balloon payments or rate adjustments due at the end of three to seven years. We generally charge an origination fee for our services.
The Company also offers commercial real estate loans as a SBA “preferred lender” under the SBA’s 504 loan program in conjunction with junior lien financing from a Certified Development Company ("CDC"). Preferred lender status is the highest designation awarded to lenders by the SBA, and accordingly, grants such lenders full lending authority to approve SBA loans. The SBA 504 loan program is an economic development-financing program providing long-term, low down payment loans to businesses. Typically, a SBA 504 project includes a loan secured from a private-sector lender, such as the Bank, with a senior lien, a loan secured from a CDC (funded by a 100% SBA-guaranteed debenture) with a junior lien covering up to 40% of the total cost, and a contribution of at least 10% equity from the borrower. The CDC is a non-profit corporation established to contribute to the economic development of its community by working together with the SBA and private sector lenders such as the Bank, to provide financing to small businesses. SBA debenture limits are $5.0 million for regular SBA 504 loans and $5.5 million for those SBA 504 loans that meet a public policy goal. The Company generally offers SBA 504 loans within a range of $600,000 to $5.0 million. At December 31, 2021, our commercial real estate loan portfolio included $44.0 million of loans originated under the SBA’s 504 loan program.
The Bank has sold, and may in the future sell, the guaranteed portion of certain of its SBA 7(a) loans in the secondary market. The Bank bases its SBA 7(a) loan sales on the level of its SBA 7(a) loan originations, the premiums available in the secondary market for the sale of such loans, and general liquidity considerations of the Bank. During 2021, the Bank originated $39.9 million in commercial real estate SBA 7(a) loans, of which $3.5 million represented the unguaranteed portion. During 2021, the Bank sold $32.8 million of the guaranteed portion of its commercial real estate SBA 7(a) loans, for which it recognized a gain of $3.5 million.
Payments on loans secured by such properties are often dependent on the successful operation (in the case of owner-occupied real estate) or management (in the case of non-owner occupied real estate) of the properties. Accordingly, repayment of these loans may be subject to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy, to a greater extent than other types of loans. Commercial real estate loans are underwritten primarily using a cash flow analysis and secondarily as loans secured by real estate. In underwriting commercial real estate loans, we seek to minimize risks in a variety of ways, including giving careful consideration to the property’s age, condition, operating history, future operating projections, current and projected market rental rates, vacancy rates, location and physical condition. The underwriting analysis also may include credit verification, reviews of appraisals, environmental hazards or reports, the borrower’s liquidity and leverage, management experience of the owners or principals, economic condition, industry trends and any guarantees, including SBA loan guarantees. At December 31, 2021, $5.4 million of our commercial real estate loans had SBA guarantees. We generally require personal guarantees from the principal owners of the property supported by a review by our management of the principal owners’ personal financial statements. We attempt to limit our risk by analyzing the borrowers’ cash flow and collateral value on an ongoing basis and by an annual review of rent rolls and financial statements. The loan-to-value ratio as established by an independent appraisal typically will not exceed 80% at loan origination and is lower in most cases. At December 31, 2021, the average loan size in our commercial real estate portfolio was approximately $1.0 million with a weighted average loan-to-value ratio of 49.3%.
Agriculture is a major industry in the Central Valley of California, one of our lending markets. We make agricultural real estate secured loans to borrowers with a strong capital base, sufficient management depth, proven ability to operate through agricultural cycles, reliable cash flows and adequate financial reporting. Generally, our agricultural real estate secured loans amortize over periods of 20 years or less and the typical loan-to-value ratio will not exceed 80% at loan origination, although actual loan-to-value ratios are typically lower. Payments on agricultural real estate secured loans depend, to a large degree, on the results of operations of the related farm entity. The repayment is also subject to other economic and weather conditions, as well as market prices for agricultural products, which can be highly volatile. Among
the more common risks involved in agricultural lending, are weather conditions, disease, water availability and water distribution rights, which can be mitigated through multi-peril crop insurance. Commodity prices also present a risk, which may be managed by the use of set price contracts. As part of our underwriting, the borrower is required to obtain multi-peril crop insurance. Normally, in making agricultural real estate secured loans, our required beginning and projected operating margins provide for reasonable reserves to offset unexpected yield and price deficiencies. We also consider the borrower’s management succession, life insurance and business continuation plan when evaluating agricultural real estate secured loans. At December 31, 2021, our agricultural real estate secured loans, totaled $17.3 million, or 1.3% of total loans.
The following table presents a breakdown of our commercial real estate loan portfolio at the dates indicated:
December 31, 2021
December 31, 2020
% of Total
% of Total
Amount
in Category
Amount
in Category
(Dollars in thousands)
(Dollars in thousands)
Retail
$
326,329
25.1
%
$
221,015
19.3
%
Multifamily residential
203,852
15.7
241,433
21.1
Hotel/motel
171,571
13.2
131,338
11.5
Office
188,161
14.5
126,069
11.0
Gas station
116,174
8.9
102,506
9.0
Convalescent facility
49,512
3.8
53,538
4.7
Industrial
88,327
6.8
76,915
6.7
Restaurants
64,349
5.0
39,596
3.5
Agricultural real estate
17,326
1.3
21,350
1.9
Other
74,083
5.6
130,800
11.4
Total commercial real estate loans
$
1,299,684
100.0
%
$
1,144,560
100.0
%
We currently target individual commercial real estate loans between $1.0 million and $5.0 million. As of December 31, 2021, the largest commercial real estate loan had a net outstanding balance of $23.5 million and was secured by a first deed of trust on a retail strip center located in Sacramento, California. The largest commercial real estate loan secured by multifamily property as of December 31, 2021, was a 32-unit apartment complex with a net outstanding principal balance of $11.3 million, located in Southern California. Both of these loans were performing according to their respective loan repayment terms as of December 31, 2021.
Construction and Land Loans. We make loans to finance the construction of residential and non-residential properties. Construction loans include loans for owner-occupied one-to-four family homes and commercial projects (such as multifamily housing, industrial, office and retail centers). These loans generally are collateralized by first liens on real estate and typically have a term of less than one-year floating interest rates and commitment fees. Construction loans are typically made to builders/developers that have an established record of successful project completion and loan repayment. We conduct periodic inspections, either directly or through an agent, prior to approval of periodic draws on these loans, based on the percentage of completion. Underwriting guidelines for our construction loans are similar to those described above for our commercial real estate lending. Our construction loans have terms that typically range from six months to two years, depending on factors such as the type and size of the development and the financial strength of the borrower/guarantor. Construction loans are typically structured with an interest-only period during the construction phase. Construction loans are underwritten to either mature, or transition to a traditional amortizing loan at the completion of the construction phase. The loan-to-value ratio on our construction loans, as established by independent appraisal, typically will not exceed 80% at loan origination, and is lower in most cases. At December 31, 2021, we had $13.4 million in construction and land loans outstanding, representing 0.8% of total loans, with $56.7 million in undisbursed commitments. The average loan size in our construction and land loan portfolio was approximately $147,000 at December 31, 2021, with a weighted average loan-to-value ratio of 51.4%.
On a more limited basis, we also make land loans to developers, builders and individuals, to finance the commercial development of improved lots or unimproved land. In making land loans, we follow underwriting policies and disbursement and monitoring procedures similar to those for construction loans. The initial term on land loans is typically one to three years with monthly interest-only payments.
Construction and land loans generally involve additional risks attributable to the fact that loan funds are advanced upon the security of a project under construction, and the project is of uncertain value prior to its completion. Because of uncertainties inherent in estimating construction costs, the market value of the completed project and the effects of governmental regulation on real property, it can be difficult to accurately evaluate the total funds required to complete a project and the related loan-to-value ratio. As a result of these uncertainties, construction lending often involves the disbursement of substantial funds, with repayment dependent, in part, on the success of the ultimate project rather than the ability of a borrower or guarantor to repay the loan. If we are forced to foreclose on a project prior to completion, there is no assurance that we will be able to recover the entire unpaid portion of the loan. In addition, we may be required to fund additional amounts to complete a project, and it may be necessary to hold the property for an indeterminate period of time subject to the regulatory limitations imposed by local, state or federal laws. Loans on land under development or held for future construction also pose additional risk because of the lack of income being produced by the property and the potential illiquid nature of the collateral.
One-to-Four Family Residential Loans. We do not originate owner-occupied one-to-four family residential real estate loans. Our one-to-four family real estate loans were either acquired through our mergers with other financial institutions or by purchases of whole loan pools with servicing retained. Generally, these loans were originated to meet the requirements of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Federal Housing Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and jumbo loans for sale in the secondary market to investors. Our one-to-four family loans do not allow for interest-only payments, nor negative amortization of principal, and carry allowable prepayment restrictions. At December 31, 2021, our one-to-four family loan portfolio, including home equity loans and lines of credit, totaled $118.4 million or 7.1% of total loans.
We do originate a limited amount of home equity loans and home equity lines of credit. Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit generally may have a loan-to-value of up 80% at the time origination when combined with the first mortgage. The majority of these loans are secured by a first or second mortgage on residential property. Home equity lines of credit allow for a ten-year draw period, with a ten-year repayment period, and the interest rate is generally tied to the prime rate as published by the Wall Street Journal and may include a margin. Home equity loans generally have ten-year maturities based on a 30-year amortization. We retain a valid lien on the real estate, obtain a title insurance policy that insures the property is free from encumbrances and require hazard insurance. At December 31, 2021, home equity loans and lines of credit totaled $10.3 million, or 0.6% of total loans, of which $733,000 were secured by junior liens. Unfunded commitments on home equity lines of credit at December 31, 2021, totaled $15.6 million.
Commercial and Industrial Loans. We make commercial and industrial loans, including commercial lines of credit, working capital loans, term loans, equipment financing, acquisition, expansion and development loans, SBA loans, letters of credit and other loan products, primarily in our target markets, which are underwritten on the basis of the borrower’s ability to service the debt from operating income. We take as collateral, a lien on general business assets, including, among other things, real estate, accounts receivable, inventory and equipment, and generally obtain a personal guaranty of the borrower or principal. Our operating lines of credit typically are limited to a percentage of the value of the assets securing the line. Lines of credit and term loans are typically reviewed annually. The terms of our commercial and industrial loans vary by purpose and by type of underlying collateral. We typically make equipment loans for a term of five years or less at fixed or adjustable rates, with the loan fully amortized over the term. Loans to support working capital typically have terms not exceeding one year and are usually secured by accounts receivable, inventory and personal guarantees of the principals of the business. The interest rates charged on loans vary with the degree of risk and loan amount and are further subject to competitive pressures, money market rates, the availability of funds and government regulations. For loans secured by accounts receivable and inventory, principal is typically repaid as the assets securing the loan are converted into cash (monitored on a monthly or more frequent basis as determined necessary in the underwriting process), and for loans secured with other types of collateral, principal is typically due at maturity. Terms greater than five years may be appropriate in some circumstances, based upon the useful life of the underlying asset being financed or if some form of credit enhancement, such as an SBA guarantee is obtained.
The 7(a) program serves as the SBA's primary business loan program to help qualified small businesses obtain financing when they might not be eligible for business loans through normal lending channels. Loans made by the Bank under the SBA 7(a) program generally are made to small businesses to provide working capital or to provide funding for the purchase of businesses, real estate, or machinery and equipment. These loans generally are secured by a combination of assets that may include equipment, receivables, inventory, business real property, and sometimes a lien on the personal residence of the borrower. SBA 7(a) loans are all adjustable rate loans based upon the Wall Street Journal prime lending rate. Loan proceeds under this program can be used for most business purposes including working capital, machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures, land and building (including purchase, renovation and new construction), leasehold improvements and debt refinancing. Loan maturity is generally up to 10 years for non-real estate collateral and up to 25 years for real estate collateral. In general, the SBA guarantees up to 75% of the loan amount depending on loan size. The Company is required by the SBA to service the loan and retain a contractual minimum of 5% on all SBA 7(a) loans, but generally retains 25% (the unguaranteed portion). The loan servicing spread is generally a minimum of 1.00% on all loans. The Company generally offers SBA 7(a) loans within a range of $200,000 to $3.0 million.
The Bank has sold, and may in the future sell, the guaranteed portion of certain of its SBA 7(a) loans in the secondary market. The Bank bases its SBA 7(a) loan sales on the level of its SBA 7(a) loan originations, the premiums available in the secondary market for the sale of such loans, and general liquidity considerations of the Bank. During 2021, the Bank originated $14.6 million in commercial and industrial SBA 7(a) loans, of which $1.4 million represented the unguaranteed portion. During 2021, the Bank sold $13.0 million of the guaranteed portion of its commercial and industrial SBA 7(a) loans, for which it recognized a gain of $1.3 million.
Commercial and industrial loans also include loans originated under the PPP, a specialized low-interest loan program funded by the SBA. The Bank, as a qualified SBA lender, was authorized to originate PPP loans. PPP loans have an interest rate of 1.0%, a two-year or five-year loan term to maturity, and principal and interest payments deferred until the lender receives the applicable forgiven amount or ten months after the end of the borrower’s loan forgiveness covered period. The SBA guarantees 100% of the PPP loans made to eligible borrowers. The entire principal amount of the borrower's PPP loan, including any accrued interest, is eligible to be forgiven and repaid by the SBA if the borrower meets the PPP conditions. As of December 31, 2021, we had received SBA forgiveness for 1,794 PPP loans totaling $164.8 million resulting in remaining 306 PPP loans with an aggregate balance of $69.6 million. As of December 31, 2020, we had received SBA forgiveness for 29 PPP loans totaling $5.9 million resulting in a remaining 1,330 PPP loans with an aggregate balance of $135.6 million. The Bank expects that the great majority of its remaining PPP borrowers will also seek full or partial forgiveness of their loan obligations. For additional information regarding these loans, see Item 1A. Risk Factors - “Risks Related to Our Lending - Loans originated under the SBA Paycheck Protection Program subject us to credit, forgiveness and guarantee risk.”
We also make agricultural operating loans, including loans to finance the purchase of machinery, equipment and breeding stock; seasonal crop operating loans used to fund the borrower’s crop production operating expenses; and operating and revolving loans used to purchase livestock for resale and related livestock production expense. We typically originate agricultural operating loans on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from the cash flow of the borrower’s agricultural business. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of agricultural operating loans may be substantially dependent on the success of the business itself and the general economic environment. As of December 31, 2021, we had agricultural operating loans of $770,000 or 0.05% of total loans.
In general, commercial and industrial loans may involve increased credit risk; therefore, typically yield a higher return. The increased risk in commercial and industrial loans derives from the expectation that such loans generally are serviced principally from the operations of the business, and those operations may not be successful. Any interruption or discontinuance of operating cash flows from the business, which may be influenced by events not under the control of the borrower such as economic events and changes in governmental regulations, could materially affect the ability of the borrower to repay the loan. In addition, the collateral securing commercial and industrial loans generally includes moveable property such as equipment and inventory, which may decline in value more rapidly than we anticipate, exposing us to increased credit risk. As a result of these additional complexities, variables and risks, commercial and industrial loans require extensive underwriting and servicing.
Consumer Loans. We generally make consumer loans as an accommodation to our clients on a case by case basis. These loans represent a small portion of our overall loan portfolio. However, these loans are important in terms of servicing our client’s needs. We make a variety of loans to individuals for personal and household purposes, including secured and unsecured term loans. Consumer loans are underwritten based on the individual borrower’s income, current debt level, past credit history and the value of any available collateral. The terms of consumer loans vary considerably based upon the loan type, nature of collateral and size of the loan. Consumer loans entail greater risk than do residential real estate loans because they may be unsecured or, if secured, the value of the collateral, such as an automobile or boat, may be more difficult to assess and more likely to decrease in value than real estate. In such cases, any repossessed collateral for a defaulted consumer loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment for the outstanding loan balance. The remaining deficiency often will not warrant further substantial collection efforts against the borrower beyond obtaining a deficiency judgment. In addition, consumer loan collections are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability, and thus are more likely to be adversely affected by job loss, divorce, illness or personal bankruptcy. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws may limit the amount which can be recovered on such loans. As of December 31, 2021, consumer loans totaled $5.1 million or 0.3% of total loans.
For additional information concerning our loan portfolio, see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020 - Loans”, contained in this report.
Sources of Funds
Deposits. Our lending and investing activities are primarily funded by deposits. We offer a variety of deposit accounts with a wide range of interest rates and terms including demand, savings, money market and time deposits with the goal of attracting a wide variety of clients. We solicit these accounts from individuals, small to medium sized businesses, trade unions and their related businesses, associations, organizations and government authorities. Our transaction accounts and time certificates are tailored to the principal market area at rates competitive with those offered in the area. We employ client acquisition strategies to generate new account and deposit growth, such as client referral incentives, search engine optimization, targeted direct mail and email campaigns, in addition to conventional marketing initiatives and advertising. While we do not actively solicit wholesale deposits for funding purposes and do not partner with deposit brokers, we do participate in the Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (“CDARS”) service via IntraFi Network (formerly known as Promontory Interfinancial Network) an as option for our clients to place funds. Our goal is to cross- sell our deposit products to our loan clients.
We also offer convenience-related services, including banking by appointment (before or after normal business hours on weekdays and on weekends), online banking services, access to a national automated teller machine network, extended drive-through hours, remote deposit capture, and courier service so that clients’ deposit and other banking needs may be served without the client having to make a trip to the branch. Our full suite of online banking solutions including access to account balances, online transfers, online bill payment and electronic delivery of client statements, mobile banking solutions for iPhone and Android phones, including remote check deposit with mobile bill pay. We offer debit cards with no ATM surcharges or foreign ATM fees for checking clients, plus night depository, direct deposit, cashier’s and travelers checks and letters of credit, as well as treasury management services, wire transfer services and automated clearing house (“ACH”) services.
We have implemented deposit gathering strategies and tactics which have enabled us to attract and retain deposits utilizing technology to deliver high quality commercial depository (treasury management) services (e.g. remote deposit capture lock box, electronic bill payments wire transfers, direct deposits and automatic transfers) in addition to the traditional generation of deposit relationships performed in conjunction with our lending activities. We offer a wide array of commercial treasury management services designed to be competitive with banks of all sizes. Treasury management services include balance reporting (including current day and previous day activity), transfers between accounts, wire transfer initiation, ACH origination and stop payments. Cash management deposit products consist of lockbox, remote deposit capture, positive pay, reverse positive pay, account reconciliation services, zero balance accounts and sweep accounts including loan sweep.
We provide an avenue for large depositors to maintain full insurance coverage by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) for all deposits up to $50.0 million. Under an agreement with IntraFi Network, we participate in the CDARS and the Insured Cash Sweep (“ICS”) money market product. These are deposit-matching programs which distribute excess balances on deposit with us across other participating banks. In return, those participating financial institutions place their excess client deposits with us in a reciprocal amount. These products are designed to enhance our ability to attract and retain clients and increase deposits by providing additional FDIC insurance for large deposits. We also participate in the ICS One-Way Sell program, which allows us to buy cost effective wholesale funding on customizable terms. At December 31, 2021, we had $12.5 million in reciprocal CDARS and $96.1 million in one-way CDARS and ICS deposits.
The Company discontinued its escrow services in 2021. We offered escrow services on commercial transactions and facilitate tax-deferred commercial exchanges through the Bank’s division, Business Escrow Services (“BES”). This afforded us a low cost core deposit base. These deposits fluctuated as the sellers of the real estate have up to nine months to invest in replacement real estate to defer the income tax on the property sold. Deposits related to BES totaled $1.7 million and $4.0 million at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.
For additional information concerning our deposits, see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020 - Deposits” contained in this report.
Borrowings. While deposits are the primary source of funds for our lending and investment activities and for general business purposes, we also use borrowings to supplement our supply of lendable funds, to meet deposit withdrawal requirements and to more efficiently leverage our capital position. The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (the “FHLB”) serves as our primary borrowing source. The FHLB provides credit for member financial institutions such as the Bank. As a member, the Bank is required to own capital stock in the FHLB and is authorized to apply for advances on the security of that stock and certain of its mortgage loans and securities, provided that certain credit worthiness standards have been met. Limitations on the amount of advances are based on the financial condition of the member institution, the adequacy of collateral pledged to secure the credit, and FHLB stock ownership requirements. The Bank has an approved secured borrowing facility with the FHLB for up to 25% of total assets for a term not to exceed five years under a blanket lien of certain types of loans. At December 31, 2021, there were no FHLB borrowings outstanding, and based on pledged collateral, the Bank had $483.1 million of available credit capacity with the FHLB. In addition to the availability of liquidity from the FHLB, the Bank maintained a short-term borrowing line of credit with the Federal Reserve Bank (“FRB”) of San Francisco, with available credit capacity of $69.6 million as of December 31, 2021 based on loans that qualify as collateral for the FRB line of credit. At December 31, 2021, there were no FRB borrowings outstanding.
The Bank also has uncommitted Federal Funds lines with three corresponding banks as of December 31, 2021 totaling $65.0 million. There were no amounts outstanding under these facilities at December 31, 2021.
On August 6, 2020, the Company issued and sold $65.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.25% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2030 (the “Notes”) at a public offering price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes. The offering of the Notes closed on August 10, 2020. The Notes initially bears a fixed interest rate of 5.25% per year. Commencing on September 15, 2025, the interest rate on the Notes resets quarterly to the three-month Secured Overnight Financing rate (“SOFR”) plus a spread of 521 basis points (5.21%), payable quarterly in arrears. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually on June 15 and September 15 of each year through September 15, 2025 and quarterly thereafter on March 15, June 15, September 15 and December 15 of each year through the maturity date or early redemption date. The Company, at its option, may redeem the Notes, in whole or in part, on any interest payment date on or after September 15, 2025, without a premium.
At December 31, 2021, we had $8.4 million aggregate principal (net of mark-to-market adjustments) of junior subordinated debentures issued in connection with the sale of trust preferred securities by two statutory business trusts assumed in our prior acquisitions.
For additional information concerning our borrowings, see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020 - Borrowings” contained in this report.
Investments
In addition to loans, we make other investments that conform to our investment policy as set by our Board of Directors. The primary objectives of our investment policy are to provide a source of liquidity, to provide an appropriate return on funds invested, to manage interest rate risk, to meet pledging requirements and to meet regulatory capital requirements. Our current investment portfolio consists of obligations of U.S. government agencies or sponsored entities, including mortgage-backed securities, collateralized mortgage obligations, municipal securities, SBA securities and corporate bonds. As of December 31, 2021, our investment portfolio totaled $174.4 million, with an average yield of 3.0% and an estimated duration of approximately 5.5 years.
Our investment policy is established by the Board of Directors. The investment policy is reviewed annually by the Bank’s Board of Directors and Asset/Liability Management Committee, who ensure compliance to the policy and also approve any change to the policy. The overall objectives of the investment policy are to maintain a portfolio of high quality investments to provide liquidity when loan demand is high, to assist in maintaining earnings when loan demand is low, and to maximize earnings while satisfactorily managing risk, including credit risk, reinvestment risk, liquidity risk and interest rate risk. All securities transactions are reported to the Board of Directors on a monthly basis.
For additional information concerning our investments, see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020 - Securities” contained in this report.
Supervision and Regulation
BayCom and United Business Bank are subject to significant regulation by federal and state laws and regulations, and the policies of applicable federal and state banking agencies. As a bank holding company registered with the Federal Reserve, we are subject to comprehensive regulation and supervision by the Federal Reserve under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, and the regulations of the Federal Reserve. As a California chartered bank, the Bank is subject to supervision, periodic examination, and regulation by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (“DFPI”), previously known as the California Department of Business Oversight, and by the Federal Reserve as its primary federal regulator. The following discussion of particular statutes and regulations affecting BayCom and United Business Bank is only a brief summary and does not purport to be complete. This discussion is qualified in its entirety by reference to the actual laws and regulations. Legislation is introduced from time to time in the United States Congress or in the California State Legislature that may affect the operations of BayCom and United Business Bank. In addition, the regulations governing the Company and the Bank may be amended from time to time by the FDIC, the DFPI, the Federal Reserve and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”), an independent bureau of the Federal Reserve. The CFPB is responsible for the implementation of the federal financial consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations and has authority to impose new requirements.
Any change in applicable laws, regulations, or regulatory policies may have a material effect on our business, operations, and prospects. We cannot predict the nature or the extent of the effects on our business and earnings that any fiscal or monetary policies or new federal or state legislation may have in the future. We also cannot predict whether or when any such changes may occur.
United Business Bank
General. As a state-chartered, federally insured commercial bank, the Bank is subject to extensive regulation and must comply with various statutory and regulatory requirements, including prescribed minimum capital standards. The Bank is regularly examined by the Federal Reserve and the DFPI and must file periodic reports concerning its activities and financial condition with these banking regulators. The Bank’s relationship with depositors and borrowers also is
regulated to a great extent by both federal and state law, especially in such matters as the ownership of deposit accounts and the form and content of mortgage and other loan documents.
Federal and state banking laws and regulations govern all areas of the operation of the Bank, including reserves, loans, investments, deposits, capital, issuance of securities, payment of dividends and establishment of branches. Bank regulatory agencies also have the general authority to limit the dividends paid by insured banks and bank holding companies if such payments should be deemed to constitute an unsafe and unsound practice and in other circumstances. The Federal Reserve, as the primary federal regulator of the Company and the Bank, and the DFPI have the authority to impose penalties, initiate civil and administrative actions and take other steps intended to prevent banks from engaging in unsafe or unsound practices.
State Regulation and Supervision. As a California-chartered commercial bank with branches in the States of California, Colorado, New Mexico and Washington, the Bank is subject not only to the applicable provisions of California law and regulations, but is also subject to applicable Colorado, New Mexico and Washington law and regulations. These state laws and regulations govern the Bank’s ability to take deposits and pay interest thereon, make loans on or invest in residential and other real estate, make consumer loans, invest in securities, offer various banking services to its clients and establish branch offices.
Deposit Insurance. Through the Deposit Insurance Fund (“DIF”), the FDIC insures deposit accounts in the Bank up to $250,000 per separately insured deposit ownership right or category. As insurer, the FDIC imposes deposit insurance premiums and is authorized to conduct examinations of and to require reporting by FDIC-insured institutions.
Under the FDIC’s rules, the assessment base for a bank is equal to its total average consolidated assets less average tangible equity capital. Currently, the FDIC’s base assessment rates are 3 to 30 basis points and are subject to certain adjustments. For institutions with less than $10 billion in assets, rates are determined based on supervisory ratings and certain financial ratios. No institution may pay a dividend if it is in default on its federal deposit insurance assessment. The FDIC has authority to increase insurance assessments, and any significant increases may have an adverse effect on the operating expenses and results of operations of the Company. The Bank paid $580,000 in FDIC assessments for the year ending December 31, 2021. Management cannot predict what assessment rates will be in the future. In a banking industry emergency, the FDIC may also impose a special assessment.
The FDIC also may prohibit any insured institution from engaging in any activity determined by regulation or order to pose a serious risk to the DIF.
The FDIC may terminate the deposit insurance of any insured depository institution if it determines, after a hearing, that the institution has engaged or is engaging in unsafe or unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations, or has violated any applicable law, regulation, order or any condition imposed by an agreement with the FDIC. It also may suspend deposit insurance temporarily during the hearing process for the permanent termination of insurance if the institution has no tangible capital. If insurance of accounts is terminated, the accounts at the institution at the time of the termination, less subsequent withdrawals, shall continue to be insured for a period of six months to two years, as determined by the FDIC. Management is not aware of any existing circumstances which would result in termination of the deposit insurance of the Bank.
Standards for Safety and Soundness. The federal banking regulatory agencies have prescribed, by regulation, guidelines for all insured depository institutions relating to internal controls, information systems and internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate risk exposure, asset growth, asset quality, earnings, and compensation, fees and benefits. The guidelines set forth the safety and soundness standards that the federal banking agencies use to identify and address problems at insured depository institutions. Each insured depository institution must implement a comprehensive written information security program that includes administrative, technical, and physical safeguards appropriate to the institution’s size and complexity and the nature and scope of its activities. The information security program must be designed to ensure the security and confidentiality of client information, protect against any unanticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of such information, protect against unauthorized access to or use of such information that could result in substantial harm or inconvenience to any client, and ensure the proper disposal of client and consumer information. Each insured depository institution must also develop and implement a risk-based
response program to address incidents of unauthorized access to client information in client information systems. If the FDIC determines that an institution fails to meet any of these guidelines, it may require an institution to submit to the FDIC an acceptable plan to achieve compliance.
Capital Requirements. Federally insured financial institutions, such as the Bank, are required to maintain a minimum level of regulatory capital. Consolidated regulatory capital requirements identical to those applicable to subsidiary banks are generally apply to bank holding companies. However, the Federal Reserve Board has provided a “Small Bank Holding Company” exception to its consolidated capital requirements, and bank holding companies with less than $3.0 billion of consolidated assets are not subject to the consolidated holding company capital requirements unless otherwise directed by the Federal Reserve Board. The Federal Reserve expects a holding company’s subsidiary banks to be Well Capitalized under the prompt corrective action regulations, discussed below.
Under the capital regulations, the minimum capital ratios are: (1) a common equity Tier 1, or CET1, capital ratio of 4.5% of risk-weighted assets; (2) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 6.0% of risk-weighted assets; (3) a total risk-based capital ratio of 8.0% of risk-weighted assets; and (4) a leverage ratio (the ratio of Tier 1 capital to average total consolidated assets) of 4.0%. CET1 generally consists of common stock, retained earnings, accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) unless an institution elects to exclude AOCI from regulatory capital, and certain minority interests (all of which are subject to applicable regulatory adjustments and deductions). Tier 1 capital generally consists of CET1 and noncumulative perpetual preferred stock. Tier 2 capital generally consists of other preferred stock and subordinated debt, which meet certain conditions, plus an amount of the allowance for loan and lease losses up to 1.25% of assets. Total capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital.
Trust preferred securities issued by a company, with total consolidated assets of less than $15.0 billion before May 19, 2010 and treated as regulatory capital are grandfathered, but any such securities issued later are not eligible as regulatory capital. If an institution grows above $15.0 billion as a result of an acquisition, the trust preferred securities are excluded from Tier 1 capital and instead included in Tier 2 capital. Subordinated Notes, such as the ones the Company issued in 2020, are also included in Tier 2 Capital.
In addition to the minimum CET1, Tier 1, leverage ratio and total capital ratios, the capital regulations require a capital conservation buffer consisting of additional CET1 capital greater than 2.5% of risk-weighted assets above the required minimum risk-based capital levels in order to avoid limitations on paying dividends, repurchasing shares, and paying discretionary bonuses.
To be considered “well capitalized,” a depository institution must have a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 8%, a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10%, a CET1 capital ratio of at least 6.5% and a leverage ratio of at least 5%, and not be subject to an individualized order, directive or agreement under which its primary federal banking regulator requires it to maintain a specific capital level. As of December 31, 2021, the Bank met the requirements to be “well capitalized” and met the fully phased-in capital conservation buffer requirement.
The Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act (“EGRRCPA”), enacted in May 2018, required the federal banking agencies to establish for institutions with assets of less than $10 billion a “community bank leverage ratio” of between 8 to 10%. In September 2019, the federal banking agencies adopted a final rule, effective January 1, 2020, creating a community bank leverage ratio ("CBLR") for institutions with total consolidated assets of less than $10 billion, and that meet other qualifying criteria related to off-balance sheet exposures and trading assets and liabilities. The CBLR provides for a simple measure of capital adequacy for qualifying institutions. A bank that elects to use the Community Bank Leverage Ratio will generally be considered Well Capitalized and to have met the risk-based and leverage capital requirements of the capital regulations if it has a leverage ratio greater than 9.0%. Our management decided not to adopt the CBLR as it would reduce the Bank’s excess capital.
The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) has adopted a new accounting standard for U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“U.S. GAAP”) referred to as Current Expected Credit Loss (“CECL”) that requires FDIC-insured institutions and their holding companies (banking organizations) to recognize credit losses expected over the life of certain financial assets. CECL covers a broader range of assets than the current method of recognizing credit losses and generally results in earlier recognition of credit losses. Upon adoption of CECL, a banking organization must
record a one-time adjustment to its credit loss allowances as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption equal to the difference, if any, between the amount of credit loss allowances under the current methodology and the amount required under CECL. For a banking organization, implementation of CECL is generally likely to reduce retained earnings, and to affect other items, in a manner that reduces its regulatory capital. The federal banking regulators, including the Federal Reserve and FDIC, have adopted a rule that gives a banking organization the option to phase in over a three-year period the day-one adverse effects of CECL on its regulatory capital.
Prompt Corrective Action. Federal statutes establish a supervisory framework for FDIC-insured institutions based on five capital categories: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized and critically undercapitalized. An institution’s category depends upon where its capital levels are in relation to relevant capital measures. The well capitalized category is described above. An institution that is not well capitalized is subject to certain restrictions on brokered deposits, including restrictions on the rates it can offer on its deposits generally. To be considered adequately capitalized, an institution must have the minimum capital ratios described above. Any institution which is neither well capitalized nor adequately capitalized is considered undercapitalized.
Undercapitalized institutions are subject to certain prompt corrective action requirements, regulatory controls and restrictions which become more extensive as an institution becomes more severely undercapitalized. Failure by the Bank to comply with applicable capital requirements would, if not remedied, result in progressively more severe restrictions on its activities and lead to enforcement actions, including, but not limited to, the issuance of a capital directive to ensure the maintenance of required capital levels and, ultimately, the appointment of the FDIC as receiver or conservator. Banking regulators will take prompt corrective action with respect to depository institutions that do not meet minimum capital requirements. Additionally, approval of any regulatory application filed for their review may be dependent on compliance with capital requirements.
As of December 31, 2021, the Bank met the requirements to be “Well Capitalized.” and the capital conservation buffer requirement. For additional information, see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources” and Note 19 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Schedules” contained in this report.
Commercial Real Estate Lending Concentrations. The federal banking agencies have issued guidance on sound risk management practices for concentrations in commercial real estate lending. The particular focus is 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 sensitive to conditions in the commercial real estate market (as opposed to real estate collateral held as a secondary source of repayment or as an abundance of caution). The purpose of the guidance is not to limit a bank’s commercial real estate lending but to guide banks in developing risk management practices and capital levels commensurate with the level and nature of real estate concentrations. The guidance directs the federal bank regulatory agencies to focus their supervisory resources on institutions that may have significant commercial real estate loan concentration risk. A bank that has experienced rapid growth in commercial real estate lending, has notable exposure to a specific type of commercial real estate loan, or is approaching or exceeding the following supervisory criteria may be identified for further supervisory analysis with respect to commercial real estate concentration risk:
● Total reported loans for construction, land development and other land represent 100% or more of the bank’s total regulatory capital; or
● Total commercial real estate loans (as defined in the guidance) represent 300% or more of the bank’s total regulatory capital or the outstanding balance of the bank’s commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased 50% or more during the prior 36 months.
The guidance provides that the strength of an institution’s lending and risk management practices with respect to such concentrations will be taken into account in supervisory guidance on evaluation of capital adequacy. As of December 31, 2021, the Bank’s aggregate recorded loan balances for construction, land development and land loans were 7.1% of total regulatory capital. In addition, at December 31, 2021, the Bank’s commercial real estate loans as calculated in accordance with regulatory guidance were 342.5% of total regulatory capital. The Bank believes that the guidelines are applicable to it, as it has a relatively high concentration in commercial real estate loans. The Bank and its Board of Directors
have discussed the guidelines and believe that the Bank’s underwriting policies, management information systems, independent credit administration process, and monitoring of real estate loan concentrations are sufficient to address the guidelines.
Activities and Investments of Insured State-Chartered Financial Institutions. California-chartered banks have powers generally comparable to those of national banks. Federal law generally limits the activities and FDIC-insured equity investments of state-chartered banks to those that are permissible for national banks. An insured state bank is not prohibited from, among other things, (1) acquiring or retaining a majority interest in a subsidiary, (2) investing as a limited partner in a partnership the sole purpose of which is direct or indirect investment in the acquisition, rehabilitation or new construction of a qualified housing project, provided that such limited partnership investments may not exceed 2% of the bank’s total assets, (3) acquiring up to 10% of the voting stock of a company that solely provides or re-insures directors’, trustees’ and officers’ liability insurance coverage or bankers’ blanket bond group insurance coverage for insured depository institutions, and (4) acquiring or retaining the voting shares of a depository institution if certain requirements are met. In addition, the FDIC is authorized to permit a state bank to engage in state-authorized activities or investments not permissible for national banks (other than non-subsidiary equity investments) if it meets all applicable capital requirements and it is determined that such activities or investments do not pose a significant risk to the DIF.
Environmental Issues Associated with Real Estate Lending. The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”) is a federal statute that generally imposes strict liability on all prior and present “owners and operators” of sites containing hazardous waste. However, Congress acted to protect secured creditors by providing that the term “owner and operator” excludes a person whose ownership is limited to protecting its security interest in the site. Since the enactment of the CERCLA, this “secured creditor exemption” has been the subject of judicial interpretations which have left open the possibility that lenders could be liable for cleanup costs on contaminated property that they hold as collateral for a loan. To the extent that legal uncertainty exists in this area, all creditors, including the Bank, that have made loans secured by properties with potentially hazardous waste contamination (such as petroleum contamination) could be subject to liability for cleanup costs, which costs often substantially exceed the value of the collateral property.
Federal Reserve System. The Bank is a member of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. The Federal Reserve requires all depository institutions to maintain reserves at specified levels against their transaction accounts, primarily checking accounts. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Reserve reduced reserve requirement ratios to zero percent effective on March 26, 2020, to support lending to households and businesses. At December 31, 2021, the Bank was in compliance with the reserve requirements in place at that time.
Affiliate Transactions. The Company and the Bank are separate and distinct legal entities. The Company is an affiliate of the Bank and any non-bank subsidiary of the Company is an affiliate of the Bank. Federal laws strictly limit the ability of banks to engage in certain transactions with their affiliates. Transactions deemed to be “covered transactions” under Section 23A of the Federal Reserve Act between a bank and an affiliate are limited to 10% of the bank’s capital and surplus and, with respect to all affiliates, to an aggregate of 20% of the bank’s capital and surplus. Further, covered transactions that are loans and extensions of credit generally are required to be secured by eligible collateral in specified amounts. Federal law also requires that covered transactions and certain other transactions listed in Section 23B of the Federal Reserve Act between a bank and its affiliates be on terms as favorable to the bank as transactions with non- affiliates.
Community Reinvestment Act. The Bank is subject to the provisions of the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 (“CRA”), which requires the appropriate federal bank regulatory agency to assess a bank’s performance under the CRA in meeting the credit needs of the community serviced by the bank, including low and moderate income neighborhoods. The regulatory agency’s assessment of the bank’s record is made available to the public. Further, a bank’s CRA performance rating must be considered in connection with a bank’s application to, among other things, to establish a new branch office that will accept deposits, relocate an existing office or merge or consolidate with, or acquire the assets or assume the liabilities of, a federally regulated financial institution. An unsatisfactory rating may be the basis for denial of certain applications. The Bank received a “satisfactory” rating during its most recently completed CRA examination.
Dividends. Dividends from the Bank constitute the major source of funds available for dividends which may be paid to the Company’s shareholders. The amount of dividends payable by the Bank to the Company depend upon the Bank’s earnings and capital position, and is limited by federal and state laws, regulations and policies. According to California law, neither a bank nor any majority-owned subsidiary of a bank may make a distribution to its shareholders in an amount which exceeds the lesser of (i) the bank’s retained earnings or (ii) the bank’s net income for its last three fiscal years, less the amount of any distributions made by the bank or by any majority-owned subsidiary of the bank during such period. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a bank may, with the prior approval of the DFPI, make a distribution to the shareholders of the bank in an amount not exceeding the greatest of: (i) the bank’s retained earnings; (ii) the net income of the bank for its last fiscal year; or (iii) the net income of the bank for its current fiscal year. Dividends payable by the Bank can be limited or prohibited if the Bank does not meet the capital conservation buffer requirement. Federal law further provides that no insured depository institution may make any capital distribution (which includes a cash dividend) if, after making the distribution, the institution would be “undercapitalized,” as defined in the prompt corrective action regulations. In addition, under federal law, a Federal Reserve member bank, such as the Bank, may not declare or pay a dividend if the total of all dividends declared during the calendar year, including a proposed dividend, exceeds the sum of the Bank’s net income during the calendar year and the retained net income of the prior two calendar years, unless the dividend has been approved by the Federal Reserve. Moreover, the federal bank regulatory agencies also have the general authority to limit the dividends paid by insured banks if such payments should be deemed to constitute an unsafe and unsound practice and failure to meet the capital conservation buffer requirement will result in restrictions on dividends.
Privacy Standards and Cybersecurity. The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999 modernized the financial services industry by establishing a comprehensive framework to permit affiliations among commercial banks, insurance companies, securities firms and other financial service providers. Federal banking agencies, including the FDIC, have adopted guidelines for establishing information security standards and cybersecurity programs for implementing safeguards under the supervision of the board of directors. These guidelines, along with related regulatory materials, increasingly focus on risk management and processes related to information technology and the use of third parties in the provision of financial services. These regulations require the Bank to disclose its privacy policy, including informing consumers of its information sharing practices and informing consumers of their rights to opt out of certain practices. In addition, on November 18, 2021, the federal banking agencies announced the adoption of a final rule providing for new notification requirements for banking organizations and their service providers for significant cybersecurity incidents. Specifically, the new rule requires a banking organization to notify its primary federal regulator as soon as possible, and no later than 36 hours after, the banking organization determines that a “computer-security incident” rising to the level of a “notification incident” has occurred. Notification is required for incidents that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the viability of a banking organization’s operations, its ability to deliver banking products and services, or the stability of the financial sector. Service providers are required under the rule to notify affected banking organization clients as soon as possible when the provider determines that it has experienced a computer-security incident that has materially affected or is reasonably likely to materially affect the banking organization’s clients for four or more hours. Compliance with the new rule is required by May 1, 2022.
Further, state cybersecurity and data privacy laws and regulations may expose the Bank to risk and result in certain risk management costs. Notably, the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (the "CCPA"), which became effective on January 1, 2020, gives California residents the right to request disclosure of information collected about them, and whether that information has been sold or shared with others, the right to request deletion of personal information (subject to certain exceptions), the right to opt out of the sale of personal information, and the right not to be discriminated against for exercising these rights. The CCPA also created a private right of action with statutory damages for data security breaches, thereby increasing potential liability associated with a data breach, which has triggered a number of class actions against other companies since January 1, 2020. Although the Bank may enjoy several fairly broad exemptions from the CCPA's privacy requirements, those exemptions do not extend to the private right of action for a data security breach. The CCPA, including any amendments thereto or regulations implemented thereunder, as well as other similar state data privacy laws and regulations, may require the establishment by the Bank of certain regulatory compliance and risk management controls. In August 2020, the California Office of Administrative Law approved the California Attorney General’s regulations to implement the CCPA. These regulations went to effect immediately. In November 2020, voters in the State of California approved the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”), a ballot measure that amends and supplements the CCPA by creating the California Privacy Protection Agency, a watchdog privacy agency to be appointed shortly after the CPRA’s enactment. The CPRA also modifies the CCPA by expanding both the scope of businesses
covered by the law and certain rights relating to personal information and its use, collection, and disclosure by covered businesses. Compliance with the CCPA, the CPRA and other state statutes or regulations designed to protect consumer personal data could potentially require us to implement substantive technology infrastructure and process changes.
Non-compliance with federal, or similar state privacy and cybersecurity laws and regulations could lead to substantial regulatory imposed fines and penalties, damages from private causes of action and/or reputational harm.
Anti-Money Laundering and Client Identification. The Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (“USA Patriot Act”) and the Bank Secrecy Act require financial institutions to develop programs to prevent financial institutions from being used for money laundering and terrorist activities. If such activities are detected, financial institutions are obligated to file suspicious activity reports with the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”). These rules require financial institutions to establish procedures for identifying and verifying the identity of clients seeking to open new financial accounts, and, the beneficial owners of accounts. Bank regulators are directed to consider an institution’s effectiveness in combating money laundering when ruling on applications under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 (the “BHCA”) and the Bank Merger Act. We believe that the Bank’s policies and procedures comply with the requirements of the USA Patriot Act and the Bank Secrecy Act.
Other Consumer Protection Laws and Regulations. The Dodd-Frank Act established the CFPB and empowered it to exercise broad regulatory, supervisory and enforcement authority with respect to both new and existing consumer financial protection laws. Banks are subject to consumer protection regulations issued by the CFPB, but as a financial institution with assets of less than $10.0 billion, the Bank is generally subject to supervision and enforcement by the Federal Reserve and the DFPI with respect to our compliance with consumer financial protection laws and CFPB regulations.
The Bank is subject to a broad array of federal and state consumer protection laws and regulations that govern almost every aspect of its business relationships with consumers. While the list set forth below is not exhaustive, these include the Truth-in-Lending Act, Truth in Savings Act, Electronic Fund Transfers Act, Expedited Funds Availability Act, Equal Credit Opportunity Act, Fair Housing Act, Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, Right to Financial Privacy Act, Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act, Fair Credit Billing Act, Homeowners Protection Act, Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act, laws governing flood insurance, laws governing consumer protections in connection with the sale of insurance, federal and state laws prohibiting unfair and deceptive business practices, and various regulations that implement some or all of the foregoing. These laws and regulations mandate certain disclosure requirements and regulate the manner in which financial institutions must deal with clients when taking deposits, making loans, collecting loans, and providing other services. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations can subject the Bank to various penalties, including but not limited to, enforcement actions, injunctions, fines, civil liability, criminal penalties, punitive damages, and the loss of certain contractual rights.
BayCom Corp
General. The Company, as sole shareholder of the Bank, is a bank holding company registered with the Federal Reserve. Bank holding companies are subject to comprehensive regulation by the Federal Reserve under the under the BHCA, and the regulations of the Federal Reserve. We are required to file quarterly reports with the Federal Reserve and to provide additional information as the Federal Reserve may require. The Federal Reserve may examine us or any of our subsidiaries, and charge us for the cost of the examination. The Federal Reserve also has extensive enforcement authority over bank holding companies, including, among other things, the ability to assess civil money penalties, to issue cease and desist or removal orders and to require that a holding company divest subsidiaries (including its bank subsidiaries). In general, enforcement actions may be initiated for violations of law and regulations and unsafe or unsound practices. The Company also is required to file certain reports with, and otherwise comply with the rules and regulations of the SEC.
The Bank Holding Company Act. Under the BHCA, we are supervised by the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve has a long-standing policy that a bank holding company is required to serve as a source of financial and managerial strength to its subsidiary banks and may not conduct its operations in an unsafe or unsound manner. In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act provides that a bank holding company must serve as a source of strength to its subsidiary banks by having the ability to provide financial assistance to its subsidiary banks during periods of financial distress. A bank holding company’s failure to meet its obligation to serve as a source of strength to its subsidiary banks will generally be considered by the Federal Reserve to be an unsafe and unsound banking practice or a violation of the Federal Reserve’s regulations, or both. No regulations have yet been proposed by the Federal Reserve to implement the source of strength provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. The Company and any subsidiaries that it may control are considered “affiliates” of the Bank within the meaning of the Federal Reserve Act, and transactions between the Bank and affiliates are subject to numerous restrictions. With some exceptions, the Company and its subsidiaries are prohibited from tying the provision of various services, such as extensions of credit, to other services offered by the Company or by its affiliates.
Acquisitions. An acquisition of the Company or the Bank, an acquisition of control of either, or an acquisition by either of another bank holding company or depository institution or control of such a company or institution is generally subject to prior approval by applicable federal and state banking regulators, as are certain acquisitions by the Company or the Bank of other types of entities, as discussed below. “Control” is defined in various ways for this purpose, including but not limited to control of 10% of outstanding voting stock of an entity. Acquisitions by the Bank of branches are also subject to similar prior approval requirements.
The BHCA prohibits a bank holding company, with certain exceptions, from acquiring ownership or control of more than 5% of the voting shares of any company that is not a bank or bank holding company, and from engaging in activities other than those of banking, managing or controlling banks, or providing services for its subsidiaries. Under the BHCA, the Federal Reserve may approve the ownership of shares by a bank holding company in any company, the activities of which the Federal Reserve has determined to be so closely related to the business of banking or managing or controlling banks as to be a proper incident thereto. These activities include: operating a savings institution, mortgage company, finance company, credit card company or factoring company; performing certain data processing operations; providing certain investment and financial advice; underwriting and acting as an insurance agent for certain types of credit- related insurance; leasing property on a full-payout, non-operating basis; selling money orders, travelers’ checks and U.S. Savings Bonds; real estate and personal property appraising; providing tax planning and preparation services; and, subject to certain limitations, providing securities brokerage services for clients.
Regulatory Capital Requirements. As discussed above, pursuant to the “Small Bank Holding Company” exception, effective August 30, 2018, bank holding companies with less than $3 billion in consolidated assets were generally no longer subject to the Federal Reserve’s capital regulations, which are generally the same as the capital regulations applicable to 1st Security Bank of Washington. At the time of this change, BayCom Corp. was considered “well capitalized” (as defined for a bank holding company), and was not subject to an individualized order, directive or agreement under which the Federal Reserve requires it to maintain a specific capital level.
Federal Securities Laws. The Company’s common stock is registered with the SEC under Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. We are subject to information, proxy solicitation, insider trading restrictions and other requirements under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”).
The Dodd-Frank Act. The Dodd-Frank-Act imposed new restrictions and an expanded framework of regulatory oversight for depository institutions and their holding companies, and capital requirements that are discussed above under the section entitled “United Business Bank - Capital Requirements.”
In addition, among other changes, the Dodd-Frank Act requires public companies to (i) provide their shareholders with a non-binding vote (a) at least once every three years on the compensation paid to executive officers and (b) at least once every six years on whether they should have a “say on pay” vote every one, two or three years; (ii) have a separate, non-binding shareholder vote regarding golden parachutes for named executive officers when a shareholder vote takes place on mergers, acquisitions, dispositions or other transactions that would trigger the parachute payments; (iii) provide disclosure in annual proxy materials concerning the relationship between the executive compensation paid and the financial performance of the issuer; and (iv) disclose the ratio of the Chief Executive Officer’s annual total compensation to the
median annual total compensation of all other employees. The company as an “emerging growth company,” unlike other public companies that are not emerging growth companies under the JOBS Act, will not be required to comply with the foregoing disclosure requirements for as long as it maintains its emerging growth company status. We will remain an emerging growth company until the earliest of (i) the end of the fiscal year during which we have total annual gross revenues of $1.07 billion or more, (ii) the end of the fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the completion of our initial public offering (i.e., December 31, 2023), (iii) the date on which we have, during the previous three-year period, issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt and (iv) the date on which we are deemed to be a “large accelerated filer” under the Exchange Act.
The regulations to implement the provisions of Section 619 of the Dodd-Frank Act, commonly referred to as the Volcker Rule, contain prohibitions and restrictions on the ability of financial institutions holding companies and their affiliates to engage in proprietary trading and to hold certain interests in, or to have certain relationships with, various types of investment funds, including hedge funds and private equity funds. The Company is continuously reviewing its investment portfolio to determine if changes in its investment strategies are in compliance with the various provisions of the Volcker Rule regulations.
Interstate Banking and Branching. The Federal Reserve must approve an application of a bank holding company to acquire control of, or acquire all or substantially all of the assets of, a bank located in a state other than the holding company’s home state, without regard to whether the transaction is prohibited by the laws of any state. The Federal Reserve may not approve the acquisition of a bank that has not been in existence for the minimum time period (not exceeding five years) specified by the statutory law of the host state. Nor may the Federal Reserve approve an application if the applicant (and its depository institution affiliates) controls or would control more than 10.0% of the insured deposits in the United States or 30% or more of the deposits in the target bank’s home state or in any state in which the target bank maintains a branch. Federal law does not affect the authority of states to limit the percentage of total insured deposits in the state which may be held or controlled by a bank holding company to the extent such limitation does not discriminate against out-of-state banks or bank holding companies. Individual states may also waive the 30% state-wide concentration limit contained in the federal law.
The federal banking agencies are generally authorized to approve interstate merger transactions without regard to whether the transaction is prohibited by the law of any state. Interstate acquisitions of branches are permitted only if the law of the state in which the branch is located permits such acquisitions. Interstate mergers and branch acquisitions are subject to the nationwide and statewide insured deposit concentration amounts described above. Under the Dodd-Frank Act, the federal banking agencies may generally approve interstate de novo branching.
Dividends. The Federal Reserve has issued a policy statement on the payment of cash dividends by bank holding companies, which expresses its view that although there are no specific regulations restricting dividend payments by bank holding companies other than state corporate laws, a bank holding company must maintain an adequate capital position and generally should not pay cash dividends unless the company’s net income for the past year is sufficient to fully fund the cash dividends and that the prospective rate of earnings appears consistent with the company’s capital needs, asset quality, and overall financial condition. The Federal Reserve policy statement also indicates that it would be inappropriate for a company experiencing serious financial problems to borrow funds to pay dividends. As described above under “Capital Requirements,” the capital conversion buffer requirement can also restrict the ability to pay dividends.
Stock Repurchases. Except for certain “Well Capitalized” and highly rated bank holding companies, a bank holding company is required to give the Federal Reserve prior written notice of any purchase or redemption of its outstanding equity securities if the gross consideration for the purchase or redemption, when combined with the net consideration paid for all such purchases or redemptions during the preceding twelve months, is equal to 10% or more of its consolidated net worth. The Federal Reserve may disapprove such a purchase or redemption if it determines that the proposal would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice, or violate any law or regulation, Federal Reserve order, or any condition imposed by or written agreement with, the Federal Reserve. See “Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities - Stock Repurchases” contained in this report.
COVID-19 Legislation. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress, through the enactment of the CARES Act and CAA 2021, and the federal banking agencies, though rulemaking, interpretive guidance and modifications to agency policies and procedures, have taken a series of actions to provide national emergency economic relief measures including, among others, the CARES Act and CAA 2021. As the on-going COVID-19 pandemic evolves, federal and state regulatory authorities continue to issue additional guidance with respect to COVID-19. In addition, it is possible that Congress will enact additional COVID-19 response legislation. We will continue to assess the impact of the CARES Act, CAA 2021 and other statues, regulations and supervisory guidance related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Competition
The financial services industry is highly competitive as we compete for loans, deposits and client relationships in our market. We compete for loans, deposits, and financial services in all of our principal markets. We compete directly with other bank and nonbank institutions, including credit unions, located within our markets, internet-based banks, and “FinTech” companies that rely on technology to provide financial services, out of market banks, and bank holding companies that advertise in or otherwise serve our markets, along with money market and mutual funds, brokerage houses, mortgage companies, and insurance companies or other commercial entities that offer financial services products. Competition involves efforts to retain current clients, make new loans and obtain new deposits, increase the scope and sophistication of services offered and offer competitive interest rates paid on deposits and charged on loans.
In commercial banking, we face competition to underwrite loans to sound, stable businesses and real estate projects at competitive price levels that make sense for our business and risk profile. Our major competitors include larger national, regional and local financial institutions and other providers of financial services, including finance companies, mutual funds, insurance companies, that may have the ability to make loans on larger projects than we can or provide a larger mix of product offerings. We also compete with smaller local financial institutions that may have aggressive pricing and unique terms on various types of loans and, increasingly, FinTech companies that offer their products exclusively through web-based portals.
In retail banking, we primarily compete for deposits with national and local banks and credit unions that have visible retail presence and personnel in our market areas. The primary factors driving competition for deposits are client service, interest rates, fees charged, branch location and hours of operation and the range of products offered. We compete for deposits by advertising, offering competitive interest rates and seeking to provide a higher level of personal service.
Many of our competitors enjoy competitive advantages, including greater financial resources, a wider geographic presence, more accessible branch office locations, the ability to offer additional services, more favorable pricing alternatives, and lower origination and operating costs. Some of our competitors have been in business for a long time and have an established client base and name recognition. We believe that our competitive pricing, personalized service, and community involvement enable us to effectively compete in the communities in which we operate.
Legal Proceedings
We operate in a highly regulated environment. From time to time we are a party to various claims and litigation matters incidental to the conduct of our business. We are not presently party to any legal proceedings where we believe the resolution would have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, liquidity, results of operation, cash flows or capital levels.
Nevertheless, given the nature, scope and complexity of the extensive legal and regulatory landscape applicable to our business (including laws and regulations governing consumer protection, fair lending, fair labor, privacy, information security and anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism laws), we, like all banking organizations, are subject to heightened legal and regulatory compliance and litigation risk.
Employees and Human Capital
As of December 31, 2021, we had approximately 307 full-time equivalent employees. At that date, approximately 76% of our workforce identified as female and 24% as male, and women held 70% of the Company’s management roles.
The average tenure of employees was 5.2 years. The ethnicity of our workforce was 41% White, 27% Asian, 22% Hispanic/Latino, 5% Black, 2% Two or More Races, and 3% Other. The following chart depicts the percentage of self-identified females and minorities in our workforce at December 31, 2021, by job classification as defined by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”):
Job Classification
Female
Minority (1)
Distribution by EEOC Job Classification
Executive / Senior level officers
%
%
%
Mid-level officers and managers
Professionals
Administrative support
Total
%
%
%
_________
(1) Includes employees self-disclosed as Asian, Black, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, or Two or More Races.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Board of Directors had three of its eleven directors who identified as female and two directors who identified as members of an underrepresented community (including one who identified as a member of two or more races). An “underrepresented community” is defined under California law to include any individual who self-identifies as Black, African American, Hispanic, Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Alaska Native, or who self identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. None of our employees are represented by any collective bargaining unit or is a party to a collective bargaining agreement, and management considers its relationship with employees to be good. We believe our ability to attract and retain employees is a key to the Bank’s success. Accordingly, as part of our compensation philosophy we offer and maintain market competitive total rewards programs for our employees in order to attract and retain superior talent. In addition to healthy base wages, additional programs include annual bonus opportunities, a Company matched 401(k) Plan, healthcare and insurance benefits, health savings and flexible spending accounts, paid time off, family leave, family care resources, flexible work schedules, and employee assistance programs.
We encourage and support the growth and development of our employees. Continual learning and career development is advanced through ongoing performance and development conversations with employees, internally developed training programs, customized corporate training engagements and educational reimbursement programs.
The success of our business is fundamentally connected to the well-being of our people. Accordingly, we are committed to the health, safety and wellness of our employees. We provide our employees and their families with access to a variety of flexible and convenient health and welfare programs, including benefits that support their physical and mental health by providing tools and resources to help them improve or maintain their health status; and that offer choice where possible so they can customize their benefits to meet their needs and the needs of their families. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we implemented significant operating environment changes that we determined were in the best interest of our employees, as well as the communities in which we operate, and which comply with government regulations.
A core tenet of our talent system is to both develop talent from within and supplement with external hires. This approach has yielded loyalty and commitment in our employee base which in turn grows our business, our products, and our clients, while adding new employees and external ideas supports a continuous improvement mindset.
Information about Executive Officers
Officers are elected annually to serve for a one-year term. There are no arrangements or understandings between the officers and any other person pursuant to which he or she was or is to be selected as an officer.
George J. Guarini: Mr. Guarini, age 68, is currently the President and Chief Executive Officer of BayCom and United Business Bank (formerly known as Bay Commercial Bank). Prior to opening the Bank in 2004, Mr. Guarini was the Senior Vice President and Senior Lending Officer of Summit Bank, a community bank headquartered in Oakland, California. In addition to serving as the Senior Vice President and Senior Lending Officer of Summit Bank from 2000 to 2003, Mr. Guarini served as the Summit Bank’s acting president between August 2001 and August 2002. From 1994 to 1999, Mr. Guarini enjoyed a career with Imperial Capital based in Glendale, California, where he began as Senior Vice President and was charged with resolving significant loan portfolio weaknesses. In 1995, following a successful initial public offering by ITLA Capital Corporation, parent of Imperial Capital Bank, he was appointed as Bank’s Chief Lending Officer. In 1997, Mr. Guarini served as the founding Chief Executive Officer of ITLA Funding Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of ITLA Capital Corporation. Prior to joining Imperial Capital Bank, Mr. Guarini held the position of Senior Vice President for California Republic Bank from 1991 to 1994. Mr. Guarini earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Rutgers University. Mr. Guarini’s qualifications to serve as a member of our Board of Directors include more than 30 years of experience in the banking industry, holding key executive and senior level management positions with national and regional financial institutions.
Janet L. King: Ms. King, age 59, is the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of BayCom. Ms. King has served as the Chief Operating Officer of United Business Bank (formerly known as Bay Commercial Bank) since its inception in 2004. Ms. King is a member of the executive management team and has over 30 years of banking experience. Prior to joining the Bank, Ms. King was employed by Circle Bank in Novato, California from 1999 - 2004 where she served as the Chief Branch Administrative Officer and was a member of the executive management team. She was responsible for all aspects of operations, including Branch Development, Human Resources, Information Technology and Compliance. Prior to this, Ms. King was the Vice President of Operations for Valencia Bank & Trust in Valencia, California from 1987 - 1998 where she was responsible for Branch Development, Centralized Operations, Information Technology and Deposit Compliance. Ms. King earned her B.S. degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.
Keary L. Colwell: Ms. Colwell, age 62, is the Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary of BayCom. Ms. Colwell has served as the Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary of United Business Bank (formerly known as Bay Commercial Bank) since inception in 2004 and is presently also the Bank’s Chief Administrative Officer. Ms. Colwell is a member of the executive management team and is responsible for all aspects of accounting and finance functions including financial reporting, asset liability management, and budget and financial planning. She also oversees the Bank’s risk management process. She has over 29 years in banking and finance. Prior to joining the Bank, Ms. Colwell was employed by The San Francisco Company and Bank of San Francisco, where she served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from 1996 through the sale of the company in 2001. Ms. Colwell served as the Vice President/Senior Financial Management of First Nationwide Bank from 1988 - 1992. Prior to joining First Nationwide Bank, Ms. Colwell was the Vice President and Controller at Independence Savings and Loan Association. Colwell worked in public accounting after graduating from college. She obtained her Certified Public Accountant license in 1984. Ms. Colwell holds a B.S. degree from California State University, Chico.
Mary Therese (Terry) Curley: Ms. Curley, age 64, joined the Bank as Executive Vice President, and Director of Labor Service Division in April 2017, in connection with our acquisition of First ULB Corp and its wholly owned subsidiary, United Business Bank, FSB. In 2022 she was also appointed as Chief Credit Officer of the Bank, At her prior bank, Ms. Curley served as EVP/ Chief Credit Officer (2012 - 2017), SVP/Credit Administrator (2009 - 2012), Credit Card Administrator (2008 - 2009), SVP/Regional Sales Manager (2005 - 2009), VP/Branch Manager (2000 - 2005) and Business Development Officer (1995 - 2000). In 1992, Ms. Curley received a B.A. in Political, Legal and Economic Analysis from Mills College, Oakland, in California. In 2005, she earned a graduate certificate from the Pacific Coast Banking School at University of Washington, Seattle.
Rick Pak: Mr. Pak, age 51, has been in the banking industry for over 30 years and has served the Bank as its Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer since January 2019. He joined the Bank in September 2016 as Senior Vice President and SBA Manager and was promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer in January 2019. As a member of the executive management team, he is responsible for overall organic loan growth in Commercial Real Estate, Commercial and Industrial lending, United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) and various government guaranteed programs including the SBA 7(a), SBA 504, Agricultural and Northern California FDC program. He has worked in many aspects of banking including retail management, consumer mortgage, commercial middle market, and government guaranteed programs. He has also worked at financial institutions of distinct sizes, including Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Citibank, Bank of the West, credit unions, and community banks that served the SBA community including Open Bank, Wilshire State Bank and Nara Bank. Mr. Pak holds a B.A. degree from Bethany University, Scotts Valley and earned a graduate certificate from the Pacific Coast Banking School at University of Washington, Seattle.
Izabella L. Zhu: Ms. Zhu, age 43, joined the Bank as Chief Risk Officer and a member of the executive management team in September 2013. Ms. Zhu is responsible for enabling effective and efficient risk governance with forward looking enterprise risk management approaches as the Bank pursues growth strategies while maintaining safety and soundness. She also oversees regulatory relations, internal audit, and community development. Prior to joining the Bank, Ms. Zhu was a Senior Financial Institutions Examiner and a founding and inaugural member of the Examiner Council at the California Department of Business Oversight. She has served as Examiner-in-Charge of various large banks, troubled financial institutions, and trust departments. Prior to that, Ms. Zhu was a financial advisor at Morgan Stanley. Ms. Zhu earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration in International Development from the Kennedy School at Harvard University and a Bachelor’s degree in International Economics from Peking University. Ms. Zhu is also a Certified Fiduciary Investment Risk Specialist, and certified in Risk and Information Systems Control by ISACA.
Corporate Information
Our principal executive offices are located at 500 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 200, Walnut Creek, California 94596. Our telephone number is (925) 476-1800.
We maintain a website with the address www.unitedbusinessbank.com. The information contained on our website is not included as a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Other than an investor’s own internet access charges, we make available, free of charge, through our website our Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after we have electronically filed such material with, or furnished such material to, the SEC. The Securities and Exchange Commission maintains a website that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC at (http://www.sec.gov).

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Item 1A. Risk Factors
An investment in our common stock is subject to risks inherent in our business. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below together with all of the other information included in this report. The risks described below are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that are currently deemed to be immaterial may also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, capital levels, cash flows, liquidity, results of operations and prospects. The market price of our common stock could decline significantly due to any identified or other risks, and some or all of your investment value could diminish. The risks discussed below include forward-looking statements, and our actual results may differ substantially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements. This report is qualified in its entirety by these risk factors.
Risks Related to Macroeconomic Conditions
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the way we conduct business which may adversely impact our financial results and those of our clients. The ultimate impact will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including the scope and duration of the pandemic and actions taken by governmental authorities in response to the pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to negatively impact economic and commercial activity and financial markets, both globally and within the United States. In our market areas, stay-at-home orders, travel restrictions and closure of non-essential businesses and similar orders imposed across the United States to restrict the spread of COVID-19 in 2020 resulted in significant business and operational disruptions, including business closures, supply chain disruptions, and significant layoffs and furloughs. Although local jurisdictions have subsequently lifted stay-at-home orders and moved to the opening of businesses, worker shortages, vaccine and testing requirements, new variants of COVID-19 and other health and safety recommendations have impacted the ability of businesses to return to pre-pandemic levels of activity and employment. While the overall economy has improved, disruptions to supply chains continue and significant inflation has been seen in the market. If these effects continue for a prolonged period or result in sustained economic stress or recession, many of the risk factors identified in our Form 10-K could be exacerbated, including the following risks of COVID-19, any of which could have a material, adverse effect on our business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations of the Company:
● effects on key employees, including operational management personnel and those charged with preparing, monitoring, and evaluating our financial reporting and internal controls;
● declines in demand for loans and other banking services and products, as well as a decline in the credit quality of our loan portfolio, owing to the effects of COVID-19 in the markets we serve;
● if the economy is unable to remain open in an efficient manner, loan delinquencies, problem assets, and foreclosures may increase, resulting in increased charges and reduced income;
● collateral for loans, especially real estate, may decline in value, which could cause loan losses to increase;
● allowance for loan losses may increase if borrowers experience financial difficulties, which will adversely affect net income;
● the net worth and liquidity of loan guarantors may decline, impairing their ability to honor commitments;
● as long as the Federal Reserve Board’s target federal funds rate remains near 0%, the yield on assets may decline to a greater extent than the decline in cost of interest-bearing liabilities, reducing net interest margin and spread and reducing net income;
● higher operating costs, increased cybersecurity risks and potential loss of productivity as the result of an increase in the number of employees working remotely;
● increasing or protracted volatility in the price of the Company’s common stock, which may also impair our goodwill; and
● risks to capital markets that may impact the performance of our investment securities portfolio, as well as limit our access to capital markets and other funding sources.
Because there have been no comparable recent global pandemics that resulted in similar global impact, we do not yet know the full extent of COVID-19’s effects on our business, operations, or the global economy as a whole. Any future development will be highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including the scope and duration of the pandemic, possible future virus variants, the effectiveness of our work-from-home arrangements, third party providers’ ability to support our operations, and any actions taken by governmental authorities and other third parties in response to the pandemic. The uncertain future development of this crisis could materially and adversely affect our business, operations, operating results, financial condition, liquidity or capital levels.
Our business may be adversely affected by downturns in the national economy and the regional economies in which we operate.
Our operations are significantly affected by national and regional economic conditions. Weakness in the national economy or the economies of the markets in which we operate could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and prospects. We provide banking and financial services primarily to businesses and individuals in the states of California, Colorado, Washington, and New Mexico. All of our branches and most of our deposit clients are located in these four states. Further, as a result of a high concentration of our client base in the San Francisco Bay area, the deterioration of businesses in this market, or one or more businesses with a large employee base in this market, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Weakness in the global economy has adversely affected many businesses operating in our markets that are dependent upon international trade and it is not known how changes in tariffs being imposed on international trade may also affect these businesses. In addition, adverse weather conditions as well as decreases in market prices for agricultural products grown in our primary markets can adversely affect agricultural businesses in our markets.
Deteriorations in economic conditions in the market areas we serve, in particular the San Francisco Bay Area, Denver, Colorado, Seattle, Washington, and Central New Mexico and the agricultural region of the California Central Valley, could result in the following consequences, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations:
● demand for our products and services may decline;
● loan delinquencies, problem assets and foreclosures may increase;
● collateral for loans, especially real estate, may decline in value, in turn reducing clients’ borrowing power, reducing the value of assets and collateral associated with existing loans;
● the net worth and liquidity of loan guarantors may decline, impairing their ability to honor commitments to us; and
● the amount of our low-cost or noninterest bearing deposits may decrease.
A decline in local economic conditions may have a greater effect on our earnings and capital than on the earnings and capital of larger financial institutions whose real estate loan portfolios are geographically diverse. Many of the loans in our portfolio are secured by real estate or fixtures attached to real estate. At December 31, 2021, approximately 85.9% of total loans was comprised of loans with real estate as a primary or secondary component of collateral. Deterioration in
the real estate markets where collateral for a mortgage loan is located could negatively affect the borrower’s ability to repay the loan and the value of the collateral securing the loan. Real estate values are affected by various other factors, including changes in general or regional economic conditions, governmental rules or policies, and natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, fires and mudslides. If we are required to liquidate a significant amount of collateral during a period of reduced real estate values, our financial condition and profitability could be adversely affected.
Risks Related to Our Lending Activities
Many of our loans are to commercial borrowers, which have a higher degree of risk than other types of loans.
At December 31, 2021, we had $1.5 billion of commercial loans, consisting of $1.3 billion of commercial real estate and construction and land loans, representing 78.8% of total loans, and $230.2 million of commercial and industrial loans, representing 13.8% of total loans and for which real estate is not the primary source of collateral. The $1.3 billion of commercial real estate loans includes $207.0 million of multifamily loans and $13.4 million of commercial construction and land loans. The $230.2 million of commercial and industrial loans include $69.6 million of PPP loans.
Commercial loans typically involve higher principal amounts than other types of loans, and some of our commercial borrowers have more than one loan outstanding with us. Consequently, an adverse development with respect to one loan or one credit relationship can expose us to a significantly greater risk of loss compared to an adverse development with respect to a one-to-four family residential mortgage loan. Because payments on such loans are often dependent on the cash flow of the commercial venture and the successful operation or development of the property or business involved, repayment of such loans is often more sensitive than other types of loans to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the general business climate and economy in one of our markets or in occupancy rates where a property is located. Repayments of loans secured by non-owner occupied properties depend primarily on the tenant’s continuing ability to pay rent to the property owner, who is our borrower, or, if the property owner is unable to find a tenant, the property owner’s ability to repay the loan without the benefit of a rental income stream. Accordingly, a downturn in the real estate market or a challenging business and economic environment may increase our risk related to commercial loans. In addition, many of our commercial real estate loans are not fully amortizing and require large balloon payments upon maturity. Such balloon payments may require the borrower to either sell or refinance the underlying property in order to make the payment, which may increase the risk of default or nonpayment. Our commercial and industrial loans are primarily made based on the identified cash flow of the borrower and secondarily on the collateral underlying the loans. The borrowers’ cash flow may prove to be unpredictable, and collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value. Most often, this collateral consists of accounts receivable, inventory and equipment. Significant adverse changes in our borrowers’ industries and businesses could cause rapid declines in values and collectability of those business assets, which could result in inadequate collateral coverage for our commercial and industrial loans and expose us to future losses. In the case of loans secured by accounts receivable, the availability of funds for the repayment of these loans may be substantially dependent on the ability of the borrower to collect amounts due from its clients. Inventory and equipment may depreciate over time, be difficult to appraise, be illiquid and fluctuate in value based on the success of the business. If the cash flow from business operations is reduced, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired. An increase in specific reserves and charge offs related to our commercial and industrial loan portfolio could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and future prospects.
In recent years, commercial real estate markets have been experiencing substantial growth, and increased competitive pressures have contributed significantly to historically low capitalization rates and rising property values. Further, commercial real estate markets have been particularly impacted by the economic disruption resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has also been a catalyst for the evolution of various remote work options which could impact the long-term performance of some types of properties within our commercial real estate portfolio. Accordingly, the federal banking regulatory agencies have expressed concerns about weaknesses in the current commercial real estate market. Failures in our risk management policies, procedures and controls could adversely affect our ability to manage this portfolio going forward and could result in an increased rate of delinquencies in, and increased losses from, this portfolio, which, accordingly, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Construction loans are based upon estimates of costs and values associated with the complete project. These estimates may be inaccurate, and we may be exposed to significant losses on loans for these projects.
Construction and land development loans totaled $13.4 million, or 0.8% of total loans as of December 31, 2021, of which $8.2 million were commercial real estate construction loans and $5.2 million were residential real estate construction loans. These loans involve additional risks because funds are advanced upon the security of the project, which is of uncertain value prior to its completion, and costs may exceed realizable values in declining real estate markets. Because of the uncertainties inherent in estimating construction costs and the realizable market value of the completed project and the effects of governmental regulation of real property, it is relatively difficult to accurately evaluate the total funds required to complete a project and the related loan-to-value ratio. Higher than anticipated building costs may cause actual results to vary significantly from those estimated. For these reasons, this type of lending also typically involves higher loan principal amounts and may be concentrated with a small number of builders. A downturn in the commercial real estate market could increase delinquencies, defaults and foreclosures, and significantly impair the value of our collateral and our ability to sell the collateral upon foreclosure. Some of the builders we deal with have more than one loan outstanding with us. Consequently, an adverse development with respect to one loan or one credit relationship can expose us to a significantly greater risk of loss. In addition, during the term of some of our construction loans, no payment from the borrower is required since the accumulated interest is added to the principal of the loan through an interest reserve. As a result, construction loans often involve the disbursement of substantial funds with repayment dependent, in part, on the success of the ultimate project and the ability of the borrower to sell or lease the property, rather than the ability of the borrower or guarantor to repay principal and interest. If our appraisal of the value of the completed project proves to be overstated, or market values or rental rates decline, we may have inadequate security for the repayment of the loan upon completion of construction of the project. In addition, construction loans involve additional cost as a result of the need to actively monitor the building process, including cost comparisons and on-site inspections.
Properties under construction are often difficult to sell and typically must be completed in order to be successfully sold, which complicates the process of working with our problem construction loans. If we are forced to foreclose on a project prior to or at completion due to a default, we may not be able to recover all of the unpaid balance of, and accrued interest on, the loan as well as related foreclosure and holding costs. In addition, we may be required to fund additional amounts to complete the project and may have to hold the property for an unspecified period of time while we attempt to dispose of it. Further, in the case of speculative construction loans, there is the added risk associated with the borrower obtaining a take-out commitment for a permanent loan. Loans on land under development or held for future construction also pose additional risk because of the lack of income production by the property and the potential illiquid nature of the collateral.
Our business may be adversely affected by credit risk associated with residential property.
At December 31, 2021, $108.2 million, or 6.5% of total loans, was secured by first liens on one-to-four family residential loans. In addition, at December 31, 2021, our home equity loans and lines of credit totaled $10.2 million. A portion of our one-to-four family residential real estate loan portfolio consists of jumbo loans that do not conform to secondary market mortgage requirements, and therefore are not immediately sellable to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac because such loans exceed the maximum balance allowable for sale. Jumbo one-to-four family residential loans may expose us to increased risk because of their larger balances and because they cannot be immediately sold to government sponsored enterprises.
In addition, one-to-four family residential loans are generally sensitive to regional and local economic conditions that significantly impact the ability of borrowers to meet their loan payment obligations, making loss levels difficult to predict. A decline in residential real estate values resulting from a downturn in the housing market in our market areas may reduce the value of the real estate collateral securing these types of loans and increase our risk of loss if borrowers’ default on their loans. Recessionary conditions or declines in the volume of real estate sales and/or the sales prices coupled with elevated unemployment rates may result in higher than expected loan delinquencies or problem assets, and a decline in demand for our products and services. These potential negative events may cause us to incur losses and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Agricultural lending and volatility in government regulations may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
At December 31, 2021, agricultural loans, including agricultural real estate and operating loans, were $18.1 million, or 1.0% of total loans. Agricultural lending involves a greater degree of risk and typically involves higher principal amounts than other types of loans. Repayment is dependent upon the successful operation of the business, which is greatly dependent on many things outside the control of either us or the borrowers. These factors include adverse weather conditions that prevent the planting of a crops or limit crop yields (such as hail, drought and floods), loss of livestock due to disease or other factors, declines in market prices for agricultural products (both domestically and internationally) and the impact of government regulations (including changes in price supports, subsidies, tariffs and environmental regulations). In addition, many farms are dependent on a limited number of key individuals whose injury or death may significantly affect the successful operation of the farm. If the cash flow from a farming operation is diminished, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired. Consequently, agricultural loans may involve a greater degree of risk than other types of loans, particularly in the case of loans that are unsecured or secured by rapidly depreciating assets such as farm equipment (some of which is highly specialized with a limited or no market for resale), or assets such as livestock or crops. In such cases, any repossessed collateral for a defaulted agricultural operating loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance as a result of the greater likelihood of damage, loss or depreciation or because the assessed value of the collateral exceeds the eventual realization value.
Loans originated under the SBA Paycheck Protection Program subject us to credit, forgiveness and guarantee risk.
As of December 31, 2021, we hold and service a portfolio of 323 loans originated under the PPP with a balance of $69.6 million. The PPP loans are subject to the provisions of the CARES Act and CAA, 2021 and to complex and evolving rules and guidance issued by the SBA and other government agencies. We expect that the great majority of our PPP borrowers will seek full or partial forgiveness of their loan obligations. We have credit risk on PPP loans if the SBA determines that there is a deficiency in the manner in which we originated, funded or serviced loans, including any issue with the eligibility of a borrower to receive a PPP loan. We could face additional risks in our administrative capabilities to service our PPP loans, and risk with respect to the determination of loan forgiveness, depending on the final procedures for determining loan forgiveness. In the event of a loss resulting from a default on a PPP loan and a determination by the SBA that there was a deficiency in the manner in which we originated, funded or serviced a PPP loan, the SBA may deny its liability under the guaranty, reduce the amount of the guaranty or, if the SBA has already paid under the guaranty, seek recovery of any loss related to the deficiency from us.
The success of our SBA lending program is dependent upon the continued availability of SBA loan programs, our status as a preferred lender under the SBA loan programs and our ability to comply with applicable SBA lending requirements.
As an SBA Preferred Lender, we enable our clients to obtain SBA loans without being subject to the potentially lengthy SBA approval process necessary for lenders that are not SBA Preferred Lenders. The SBA periodically reviews the lending operations of participating lenders to assess, among other things, whether the lender exhibits prudent risk management. When weaknesses are identified, the SBA may request corrective actions or impose other restrictions, including revocation of the lender’s Preferred Lender status. If we lose our status as a Preferred Lender, we may lose our ability to compete effectively with other SBA Preferred Lenders, and as a result we would experience a material adverse effect to our financial results.
Any changes to the SBA program, including changes to the level of guaranty provided by the federal government on SBA loans or changes to the level of funds appropriated by the federal government to the various SBA programs, may also have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Historically, we have sold the guaranteed portion of our SBA 7(a) loans in the secondary market. These sales have resulted in gains or premiums on the sale of the loans and have created a stream of future servicing income. For the year ended December 31, 2021, we sold a total of $45.8 million in SBA loans (guaranteed portion) for a net gain of $4.8 million. There can be no assurance that we will be able to continue originating these loans, that a secondary market
will exist or that we will continue to realize premiums upon the sale of the guaranteed portion of these loans. When we sell the guaranteed portion of our SBA 7(a) loans, we incur credit risk on the retained, non-guaranteed portion of the loans.
In order for a borrower to be eligible to receive an SBA loan, the lender must establish that the borrower would not be able to secure a bank loan without the credit enhancements provided by a guaranty under the SBA program. Accordingly, the SBA loans in our portfolio generally have weaker credit characteristics than the rest of our portfolio, and may be at greater risk of default in the event of deterioration in economic conditions or the borrower’s financial condition. In the event of a loss resulting from default and a determination by the SBA that there is a deficiency in the manner in which the loan was originated, funded or serviced by us, the SBA may require us to repurchase the previously sold portion of the loan, deny its liability under the guaranty, reduce the amount of the guaranty, or, if it has already paid under the guaranty, seek recovery of the principal loss related to the deficiency from us. Management has estimated losses inherent in the outstanding guaranteed portion of SBA loans and recorded a recourse reserve at a level determined to be appropriate. Significant increases to the recourse reserve may materially decrease our net income, which may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
To meet our growth objectives, we may originate or purchase loans outside of our market area which could affect the level of our net interest margin and nonperforming loans.
In order to achieve our desired loan portfolio growth, we anticipate that we may, from time to time, opportunistically originate or purchase loans outside of our market area either individually, through participations, or in bulk or “pools.” In the past, we have also originated loans outside of our market areas as an accommodation to current clients and acquired loans outside of our market areas through our acquisitions of other financial institutions. We will perform certain due diligence procedures and may re- underwrite these loans to our underwriting standards prior to purchase, and anticipate acquiring loans subject to customary limited indemnities; however, we may be exposed to a greater risk of loss as we acquire loans of a type or in geographic areas where management may not have substantial prior experience and which may be more difficult for us to monitor. Further, when determining the purchase price, we are willing to pay to acquire loans, management will make certain assumptions about, among other things, how borrowers will prepay their loans, the real estate market and our ability to collect loans successfully and, if necessary, to dispose of any real estate that may be acquired through foreclosure. To the extent that our underlying assumptions prove to be inaccurate or the basis for those assumptions change (such as an unanticipated decline in the real estate market), the purchase price paid may prove to have been excessive, resulting in a lower yield or a loss of some or all of the loan principal. For example, if we purchase “pools” of loans at a premium and some of the loans are prepaid before we anticipate, we will earn less interest income on the acquired loans than expected. Our success in increasing our loan portfolio through loan purchases will depend on our ability to price the loans properly and on general economic conditions in the geographic areas where the underlying properties or collateral for the loans acquired are located. Inaccurate estimates or declines in economic conditions or real estate values in the markets where we purchase loans could significantly adversely affect the level of our nonperforming loans and our results of operations.
Our allowance for loan losses may prove to be insufficient to absorb potential losses in our loan portfolio.
As with most financial institutions, we maintain an allowance for loan losses to reflect potential defaults and nonperformance, which represents management's best estimate of probable loans losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The determination of the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses inherently involves a high degree of subjectivity and requires us to make various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of our loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of many of our loans. In determining the amount of the allowance for loan losses, we review loans and our historical loss and delinquency experience and evaluate economic conditions. Management also recognizes that significant new growth in loan portfolios, new loan products, and the refinancing of existing loans can result in portfolios comprised of unseasoned loans that may not perform in a historical or projected manner and will increase the risk that our allowance may be insufficient to absorb losses without significant additional provisions. If our assumptions are incorrect, our allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover actual losses, resulting in additional provisions for loan losses to replenish the allowance for loan losses. Deterioration in economic conditions, new information regarding existing loans, identification of additional problem loans or relationships, and other factors, both within and outside of our control, may increase our loan charge-offs and/or otherwise require an increase in our provision for loan losses. The acquisition method of
accounting requires that acquired loans are initially recorded at fair value at the time of acquisition, and therefore no corresponding allowance for loan losses is recorded for these loans at acquisition because credit quality, among other elements, was considered in the determination of fair value. To the extent that our estimates of fair value are too high, we will incur impairment losses associated with the acquired loans.
In addition, the FASB has adopted a new accounting standard referred to as Current Expected Credit Loss, or CECL, which will require financial institutions to determine periodic estimates of lifetime expected credit losses on loans and recognize the expected credit losses as allowances for credit losses. This will change the current method of providing allowances for credit losses only when they have been incurred and are probable, which may require us to increase our allowance for loan losses and may greatly increase the types of data we would need to collect and review to determine the appropriate level of the allowance for credit losses. This accounting pronouncement is expected to be applicable to us for our first fiscal year after December 15, 2022. We are evaluating the impact the CECL accounting model will have on our accounting but expect to recognize a onetime cumulative-effect adjustment to the allowance for loan losses as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the new standard is effective. We cannot yet determine the magnitude of any such one-time cumulative adjustment or of the overall impact of the new standard on our financial condition or results of operations. The federal banking regulators, including the Federal Reserve and the FDIC, have adopted a rule that gives a banking organization the option to phase in over a three- year period the day-one adverse effects of CECL on its regulatory capital. In addition, bank regulatory agencies periodically review our allowance for loan losses and may require an increase in the provision for possible loan losses or the recognition of further loan charge-offs based on their judgment about information available to them at the time of their examination. Any increases in the provision for loan losses will result in a decrease in net income and may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, and capital.
Risks Related to Market and Interest Rate Changes
Our profitability is vulnerable to interest rate fluctuations. Our earnings and cash flows are largely dependent upon our net interest income. Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond our control, including general economic conditions and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies and, in particular, the Federal Reserve Board. In March 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) of the Federal Reserve reduced the targeted federal funds rate 150 basis points to a range of 0.00% to 0.25%. The reduction in the targeted federal funds rate has resulted in a decline in overall interest rates which has negatively impacted our net interest income. However, the FOMC has recently indicated it expects to increase rates starting in 2022. If the FOMC increases the targeted federal funds rates, overall interest rates will likely rise, which will positively impact our net interest income, but may negatively impact both the housing market by reducing refinancing activity and new home purchases and the U.S. economy. In addition, deflationary pressures, while possibly lowering our operational costs, could have a significant negative effect on our borrowers, especially our business borrowers, and the values of collateral securing loans which could negatively affect our financial performance.
We principally manage interest rate risk by managing volume and mix of our earning assets and funding liabilities. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence not only the interest we receive on loans and investments and the amount of interest we pay on deposits and borrowings, but could also affect (i) our ability to originate and/or sell loans and obtain deposits, (ii) the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities, which could negatively impact shareholders’ equity, and our ability to realize gains from the sale of such assets, (iii) our ability to obtain and retain deposits in competition with other available investment alternatives, (iv) the ability of our borrowers to repay adjustable or variable rate loans, and (v) the average duration of our investment securities portfolio and other interest-earning assets. In a changing interest rate environment, we may not be able to manage this risk effectively. If we are unable to manage interest rate risk effectively, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially affected.
A sustained increase in market interest rates could adversely affect our earnings. A significant portion of our loans have fixed interest rates and longer terms than our deposits and borrowings. As is the case with many banks our emphasis on increasing core deposits has resulted in an increasing percentage of our deposits being comprised of certificates of deposit and other deposits yielding no or a relatively low interest rate, having a shorter duration than our assets. At December 31, 2021, we had $194.5 million in certificates of deposit that mature within one year and $1.8 billion
in noninterest bearing checking, NOW checking, savings and money market accounts. We would incur a higher cost of funds to retain these deposits in a rising interest rate environment. Our net interest income could be adversely affected if the rates we pay on deposits and borrowings increase more rapidly than the rates we earn on loans and other investments.
Although management believes it has implemented effective asset and liability management strategies to reduce the potential effects of changes in interest rates on our results of operations, any substantial, unexpected or prolonged change in market interest rates could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Also, our interest rate risk modeling techniques and assumptions likely may not fully predict or capture the impact of actual interest rate changes on our balance sheet or projected operating results. For further discussion of how changes in interest rates could impact us, see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Interest Rate Sensitivity and Market Risk,” of this Form 10-K for a discussion of interest rate risk modeling and the inherent risks in modeling assumptions.
We may incur losses on our securities portfolio as a result of changes in interest rates.
Factors beyond our control can significantly influence the fair value of securities in our portfolio and can cause potential adverse changes to the fair value of these securities. These factors include, but are not limited to, rating agency actions in respect of the securities, defaults by, or other adverse events affecting, the issuer or with respect to the underlying securities, and changes in market interest rates and continued instability in the capital markets. Any of these factors, among others, could cause other-than-temporary impairments and realized and/or unrealized losses in future periods and declines in other comprehensive income, which could have a material effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The process for determining whether impairment of a security is other-than-temporary usually requires complex, subjective judgments about the future financial performance and liquidity of the issuer and any collateral underlying the security to assess the probability of receiving all contractual principal and interest payments on the security. There can be no assurance that the declines in market value will not result in other-than-temporary impairments of these assets and lead to accounting charges that could have a material adverse effect on our net income and capital levels. For the year ended December 31, 2021, we did not incur any other-than-temporary impairments on our securities portfolio.
Risks Related to our Merger and Acquisition Strategy
Our strategy of pursuing acquisitions exposes us to financial, execution, compliance and operational risks that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.
A substantial part of our historical growth has been a result of acquisitions of other financial institutions. We intend to continue our strategy of evaluating and selectively acquiring other financial institutions that serve clients or markets we find desirable. The market for acquisitions remains highly competitive and we may be unable to find satisfactory acquisition candidates in the future that fit our acquisition strategy and standards. Our ability to compete will depend on our available financial resources to fund acquisitions, including the amount of cash and cash equivalents and the liquidity and market price of our common stock. In addition, increased competition may also drive up the price that we will be required to pay for acquisitions. Acquisition prices may fluctuate with market conditions. We have experienced times during which acquisitions could not be made in specific markets at acceptable prices and expect that we will experience this condition in the future. If we are able to identify attractive acquisition opportunities, we must generally satisfy a number of conditions prior to completing any such transaction, including certain bank regulatory approvals, which can be burdensome, time-consuming and unpredictable. An important component of our growth strategy may not be realized if we are unable to find suitable acquisition targets.
Our pursuit of acquisitions may disrupt our business, and any equity that we issue as merger consideration may have the effect of diluting the value of your investment. Additionally, any future acquisition may not produce the revenue, earnings or synergies that we anticipated. Our acquisition activities strategy involves a number of significant risks, including the following:
•incurring time and expense associated with identifying, evaluating and negotiating potential acquisitions which could divert management’s attention from the operation of our existing business;
•using inaccurate estimates and judgments to evaluate credit, operations, management, and market risks with respect to the target company or the assets and liabilities that we seek to acquire;
•exposure to potential asset quality and credit quality;
•higher than expected deposit attrition;
•potential exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities of banks and businesses we acquire, including, without limitation, liabilities for regulatory and compliance issues;
•inability to realize the expected revenue increases, cost savings, increases in geographic or product presence, and other projected benefits of the acquisition;
•incurring time and expense required to integrate the operations and personnel of the combined businesses;
•inconsistencies in standards, procedures, and policies that would adversely affect our ability to maintain relationships with clients and employees;
•experiencing higher operating expenses relative to operating income from the new operations;
•creating an adverse short-term effect on our results of operations;
•significant problems relating to the conversion of the financial and client data of the entity;
•integration of acquired clients into our financial and client product systems;
•borrowing funds to finance acquisitions or pursuing other forms of financing, such as issuing voting and/or non-voting common stock or convertible preferred stock, which may have high dividend rights or may be highly dilutive to our existing shareholders, may increase our leverage and diminish our liquidity; and
•risks of impairment to goodwill which would require a charge to earnings.
Any of the foregoing could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operation.
Any expansion into new markets or new lines of business might not be successful.
As part of our ongoing strategic plan, we may consider expansion into new geographic markets. Such expansion might take the form of the establishment of de novo branches or the acquisition of existing banks or branches. There are substantial risks associated with such efforts, including risks that (i) revenues from such activities might not be sufficient to offset the development, compliance, and other implementation costs, (ii) competing products and services and shifting market preferences might affect the profitability of such activities, and (iii) our internal controls might be inadequate to manage the risks associated with new activities. Furthermore, it is possible that our unfamiliarity with new markets or lines of business might adversely affect the success of such actions. External factors, such as compliance with regulations, competitive alternatives and shifting market preferences, may also affect the ultimate implementation of a new line of business or offerings of new products, product enhancements or services. If any such expansions into new geographic or product markets are not successful, there could be an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to Accounting Matters
We may experience future goodwill impairment, which could reduce our earnings.
We performed our test for goodwill impairment at December 31, 2021 and the test concluded that recorded goodwill was not impaired. Our test of goodwill for potential impairment is based on a qualitative assessment by
management that takes into consideration macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, cost or margin factors, financial performance and share price. Our evaluation of the fair value of goodwill involves a substantial amount of judgment. If our judgment was incorrect, or if events or circumstances change, and an impairment of goodwill was deemed to exist, we would be required to write down our goodwill resulting in a charge against operations, which would adversely affect our results of operations, perhaps materially; however, it would have no impact on our liquidity, operations, or regulatory capital.
Nonperforming assets take significant time to resolve and adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition and could result in further losses in the future.
Nonperforming assets adversely affect our earnings in various ways. We do not record interest income on nonaccrual loans or foreclosed assets, thereby adversely affecting our income and increasing our loan administration costs. Upon foreclosure or similar proceedings, we record the repossessed asset at the estimated fair value, less costs to sell, which may result in a write down or loss. If we experience increases in nonperforming loans and nonperforming assets, our losses and troubled assets could increase significantly, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations, as our loan administration costs could increase, each of which could have an adverse effect on our net income and related ratios, such as return on assets and equity. A significant increase in the level of nonperforming assets from current levels would also increase our risk profile and may impact the capital levels our regulators believe are appropriate in light of the increased risk profile. While we reduce problem assets through collection efforts, asset sales, workouts and restructurings, decreases in the value of the underlying collateral, or in these borrowers’ performance or financial condition, whether or not due to economic and market conditions beyond our control, could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, the resolution of nonperforming assets requires significant commitments of time from management and our directors, which can be detrimental to the performance of their other responsibilities.
Risks Related to Cybersecurity, Third Parties and Technology
We are subject to certain risks in connection with our use of technology.
Our security measures may not be sufficient to mitigate the risk of a cyber-attack. Communications and information systems are essential to the conduct of our business, as we use such systems to manage our client relationships, our general ledger, and virtually all other aspects of our business. Our operations rely on the secure processing, storage, and transmission of confidential and other information in our computer systems and networks. Although we take protective measures and endeavor to modify them as circumstances warrant, the security of our computer systems, software, and networks may be vulnerable to breaches, fraudulent or unauthorized access, denial or degradation of service, attacks, misuse, computer viruses, malware, or other malicious code and cyber-attacks that could have a security impact. If one or more of these events occur, this could jeopardize our or our clients’ confidential and other information processed and stored in, and transmitted through, our computer systems and networks, or otherwise cause interruptions or malfunctions in our operations or the operations of our clients or counterparties. We may be required to expend significant additional resources to modify our protective measures or to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures, and we may be subject to litigation and financial losses that are either not insured against or not fully covered through any insurance maintained by us. We could also suffer significant reputational damage.
Security breaches in our internet banking activities could further expose us to possible liability and damage our reputation. Increases in criminal activity levels and sophistication, advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries, vulnerabilities in third party technologies (including browsers and operating systems), or other developments could result in a compromise or breach of the technology, processes and controls that we use to prevent fraudulent transactions, and to protect data about us, our clients, and underlying transactions. Any compromise of our security could deter clients from using our internet banking services that involve the transmission of confidential information. We rely on standard internet security systems to provide the security and authentication necessary to effect secure transmission of data. Although we have developed and continue to invest in systems and processes that are designed to detect and prevent security breaches and cyber-attacks and periodically test our security, these precautions may not protect our systems from compromises or breaches of our security measures, and could result in losses to us or our clients, our loss of business and/or clients, damage to our reputation, the incurrence of additional expenses, disruption to our business, our inability to grow our online
services, or other businesses, additional regulatory scrutiny or penalties, or our exposure to civil litigation and possible financial liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our security measures may not protect us from system failures or interruptions. While we have established policies and procedures to prevent or limit the impact of systems failures and interruptions, there can be no assurance that such events will not occur or that they will be adequately addressed if they do. In addition, we outsource certain aspects of our data processing and other operational functions to certain third-party providers. While we select third-party vendors carefully, we do not control their actions. If our third-party providers encounter difficulties including those resulting from breakdowns or other disruptions in communication services provided by a vendor, failure of a vendor to handle current or higher transaction volumes, cyber-attacks and security breaches or if we otherwise have difficulty in communicating with them, our ability to adequately process and account for transactions could be affected, and our ability to deliver products and services to our clients and otherwise conduct business operations could be adversely impacted. Replacing these third-party vendors could also entail significant delay and expense. Threats to information security also exist in the processing of client information through various other vendors and their personnel.
We cannot assure you that such breaches, failures or interruptions will not occur or, if they do occur, that they will be adequately addressed by us or the third parties on which we rely. We may not be insured against all types of losses as a result of third-party failures and insurance coverage may be inadequate to cover all losses resulting from breaches, system failures, or other disruptions. If any of our third-party service providers experience financial, operational, or technological difficulties, or if there is any other disruption in our relationships with them, we may be required to identify alternative sources of such services, and we cannot assure you that we could negotiate terms that are as favorable to us, or could obtain services with similar functionality as found in our existing systems without the need to expend substantial resources, if at all. Further, the occurrence of any systems failure or interruption could damage our reputation and result in a loss of clients and business, could subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny, or could expose us to legal liability. Any of these occurrences could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
The Board of Directors oversees the risk management process, including the risk of cybersecurity breaches, and engages with management on cybersecurity issues.
We are subject to certain risks in connection with our data management or aggregation.
We are reliant on our ability to manage data and our ability to aggregate data in an accurate and timely manner to ensure effective risk reporting and management. Our ability to manage data and aggregate data may be limited by the effectiveness of our policies, programs, processes and practices that govern how data is acquired, validated, stored, protected and processed. While we continuously update our policies, programs, processes and practices, many of our data management and aggregation processes are manual and subject to human error or system failure. Failure to manage data effectively and to aggregate data in an accurate and timely manner may limit our ability to manage current and emerging risks, as well as to manage changing business needs.
Our business may be adversely affected by an increasing prevalence of fraud and other financial crimes.
As a bank, we are susceptible to fraudulent activity, information security breaches and cybersecurity related incidents that may be committed against us or our clients, which may result in financial losses or increased costs to us or our clients, disclosure or misuse of our information or our client information, misappropriation of assets, privacy breaches against our clients, litigation or damage to our reputation. Such fraudulent activity may take many forms, including check fraud, electronic fraud, wire fraud, phishing, social engineering and other dishonest acts. Nationally, reported incidents of fraud and other financial crimes have increased. We are not aware that we have experienced any material misappropriation, loss or other unauthorized disclosure of confidential or personally identifiable information as a result of a cyber-security breach or other act, however, some of our clients may have been affected by these breaches, which could increase their risks of identity theft, credit card fraud and other fraudulent activity that could involve their accounts with us. While we have policies and procedures designed to prevent such losses, there can be no assurance that such losses will not occur.
Risk Related to Regulatory and Compliance Matters
The level of our commercial real estate loan portfolio may subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny.
The FDIC, the Federal Reserve and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency have promulgated joint guidance on sound risk management practices for financial institutions with concentrations in commercial real estate lending. Under this guidance, a financial institution that, like us, is actively involved in commercial real estate lending, should perform a risk assessment to identify concentrations. A financial institution may have a concentration in commercial real estate lending if, among other factors (i) total reported loans for construction, land development and other land represent 100.0% or more of total capital, or (ii) total reported commercial real estate loans (as defined in the guidance) represent 300.0% or more of total capital. The particular focus of the guidance is 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 as an abundance of caution). The purpose of the guidance is to guide banks in developing risk management practices and 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. We have concluded that we have a concentration in commercial real estate lending under the foregoing standards because our balance in commercial real estate loans at December 31, 2021 represents more than 300% of total capital. Owner-occupied commercial real estate totaled 146.4% of total capital, while non-owner occupied commercial real estate totals an additional 264.4% of total capital. While we believe we have implemented policies and procedures with respect to our commercial real estate loan portfolio consistent with this guidance, bank regulators could require us to implement additional policies and procedures consistent with their interpretation of the guidance that may result in additional costs to us.
We operate in a highly regulated environment and may be adversely affected by changes in federal and state laws and regulations that could increase our costs of operations.
The banking industry is extensively regulated. Federal banking regulations are designed primarily to protect the deposit insurance funds and consumers, not to benefit a company’s shareholders. These regulations may sometimes impose significant limitations on our operations. The significant federal and state banking regulations that affect us are described in this report under the heading “Item 1. Business - Supervision and Regulation”. These regulations, along with the currently existing tax, accounting, securities, insurance, privacy and monetary laws, regulations, rules, standards, policies, and interpretations control the methods by which financial institutions conduct business, implement strategic initiatives and tax compliance, and govern financial reporting and disclosures. These laws, regulations, rules, standards, policies, and interpretations are constantly evolving and may change significantly over time. Any new regulation or legislation, or change in existing regulation or oversight, whether a change in regulatory policy or a change in a regulator’s interpretation of a law or regulation, could have a material impact on our operations, increase our costs of regulatory compliance and of doing business and adversely affect our profitability. For example, changes in consumer privacy laws, such as the recently enacted CCPA and CPRA in California, or any non-compliance with such laws, could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. See “Item 1. Business-Supervision and Regulation-Privacy Standards” for additional information on the CCPA and the CPRA. Compliance with the CCPA, the CPRA and other state statutes or regulations designed to protect consumer personal data could potentially require us to implement substantive technology infrastructure and process changes. Non-compliance with the CCPA, the CPRA or similar laws and regulations could lead to substantial regulatory imposed fines and penalties, damages from private causes of action and/or reputational harm.
Non-compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act, Bank Secrecy Act, or other laws and regulations could result in fines or sanctions and limit our ability to get regulatory approval of acquisitions.
The USA PATRIOT and Bank Secrecy Acts require financial institutions to develop programs to prevent financial institutions from being used for money laundering and terrorist activities. If such activities are detected, financial institutions are obligated to file suspicious activity reports with the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. These rules require financial institutions to establish procedures for identifying and verifying the identity of clients seeking to open new financial accounts. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in fines or sanctions and limit our ability to get regulatory approval of acquisitions. Recently several banking institutions have received large fines for non- compliance with these laws and regulations. While we have developed policies and procedures designed to assist in compliance with these laws and regulations, no assurance can be given that these policies and procedures will be effective in preventing violations of these laws and regulations. If our policies, procedures and systems are deemed deficient, we would be subject to liability, including fines and regulatory actions, which may include the denial of regulatory approvals to proceed with certain aspects of our business plan, including our acquisition plans. Failure to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat money laundering and terrorist financing could also have serious reputational consequences for us. Any of these results could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.
If our enterprise risk management framework is not effective at mitigating risk and loss to us, we could suffer unexpected losses.
Our enterprise risk management framework seeks to achieve an appropriate balance between risk and return, which is critical to optimizing stockholder value. We have established processes and procedures intended to identify, measure, monitor, report, analyze and control the types of risk to which we are subject. These risks include liquidity risk, credit risk, market risk, interest rate risk, operational risk, legal and compliance risk, and reputational risk, among others. We also maintain a compliance program designed to identify, measure, assess, and report on our adherence to applicable laws, policies and procedures. While we assess and improve these programs on an ongoing basis, there can be no assurance that our risk management or compliance programs, along with other related controls, will effectively mitigate all risk and limit losses in our business. However, as with any risk management framework, there are inherent limitations to our risk management strategies as there may exist, or develop in the future, risks that we have not appropriately anticipated or identified.
Risks Related to Our Business and Industry Generally
We rely on other companies to provide key components of our business infrastructure.
We rely on numerous external vendors to provide us with products and services necessary to maintain our day-to-day operations. Accordingly, our operations are exposed to risk that these vendors will not perform in accordance with the contracted arrangements under service level agreements. The failure of an external vendor to perform in accordance with the contracted arrangements under service level agreements because of changes in the vendor’s organizational structure, financial condition, support for existing products and services or strategic focus or for any other reason, could be disruptive to our operations, which in turn could have a material negative impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
We also could be adversely affected to the extent such an agreement is not renewed by the third-party vendor or is renewed on terms less favorable to us. Additionally, the bank regulatory agencies expect financial institutions to be responsible for all aspects of our vendors’ performance, including aspects which they delegate to third parties. Disruptions or failures in the physical infrastructure or operating systems that support our business and clients, or cyber-attacks or security breaches of the networks, systems or devices that our clients use to access our products and services could result in client attrition, regulatory fines, penalties or intervention, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensation costs, and/or additional compliance costs, any of which could materially adversely affect our results of operations or financial condition.
We will be required to transition from the use of the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") in the future.
We have certain loans and investment securities, indexed to LIBOR to calculate the interest rate. The continued availability of the LIBOR index is not guaranteed after 2021 and by June 2023, LIBOR is scheduled to be eliminated entirely. We cannot predict whether and to what extent banks will continue to provide LIBOR submissions to the administrator of LIBOR or whether any additional reforms to LIBOR may be enacted. At this time, no consensus exists as to what rate or rates may become acceptable alternatives to LIBOR (with the exception of overnight repurchase agreements, which are expected to be based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate, or SOFR). Uncertainty as to the nature of alternative reference rates and as to potential changes or other reforms to LIBOR may adversely affect LIBOR rates and the value of LIBOR-based loans, and to a lesser extent securities in our portfolio, and may impact the availability and cost of hedging instruments and borrowings. The language in our LIBOR-based contracts and financial instruments has developed over time and may have various events that trigger when a successor rate to the designated rate would be selected. If a trigger is satisfied, contracts and financial instruments may give the calculation agent discretion over the substitute index or indices for the calculation of interest rates to be selected. The implementation of a substitute index or indices for the calculation of interest rates under our loan agreements with our borrowers or our existing borrowings may result in our incurring significant expenses in effecting the transition, may result in reduced loan balances if borrowers do not accept the substitute index or indices, and may result in disputes or litigation with clients and creditors over the appropriateness or comparability to LIBOR of the substitute index or indices, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
Ineffective liquidity management could adversely affect our financial results and condition.
Liquidity is essential to our business. We rely on a number of different sources in order to meet our potential liquidity demands. Our primary sources of liquidity are increases in deposit accounts, cash flows from loan payments and our securities portfolio. Borrowings also provide us with a source of funds to meet liquidity demands. An inability to raise funds through deposits, borrowings, the sale of loans and other sources could have a substantial negative effect on our liquidity. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance our activities or on terms which are acceptable to us could be impaired by factors that affect us specifically, or the financial services industry or economy in general. Factors that could detrimentally impact our access to liquidity sources include a decrease in the level of our business activity as a result of a downturn in the markets in which our loans are concentrated, negative operating results, or adverse regulatory action against us. Our ability to borrow could also be impaired by factors that are not specific to us, such as a disruption in the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry or deterioration in credit markets. Any decline in available funding in amounts adequate to finance our activities or on terms which are acceptable could adversely impact our ability to originate loans, invest in securities, meet our expenses, or fulfill obligations such as repaying our borrowings or meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could, in turn, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity” of this Form 10-K.
Several of our large depositors have relationships with each other, which creates a higher risk that one client’s withdrawal of its deposit could lead to a loss of other deposits from clients within the relationship, which, in turn, could force us to fund our business through more expensive and less stable sources.
As of December 31, 2021, our ten largest non-brokered depositors accounted for $198.6 million in deposits, or approximately 10.0% of total deposits. Several of our large depositors are affiliated locals of labor unions or have business, family, or other relationships with each other, which creates a risk that any one client’s withdrawal of its deposit could lead to a loss of other deposits from clients within the relationship. At December 31, 2021, $631.2 million, or 34.0%, of our total deposits were comprised of deposits from labor unions, representing 694 different local unions with an average deposit balance per local union of approximately $890,000. At December 31, 2021, six labor unions had aggregate deposits of $10.0 million or more, totaling $116.2 million, or 5.9% of our total deposits.
Given our use of these high average balance deposits as a source of funds, the inability to retain these funds could have an adverse effect on our liquidity. In addition, these deposits are primarily demand deposit accounts or short-term deposits and therefore may be more sensitive to changes in interest rates. If we are forced to pay higher rates on these deposits to retain the funds, or if we are unable to retain the funds and are forced to turn to borrowing and other funding
sources for our lending and investment activities, the interest expense associated with such borrowings may be higher than the rates we are paying on these deposits, which could adversely affect our net margin and net income. We may also be forced, as a result of any material withdrawal of deposits, to rely more heavily on other, potentially more expensive and less stable funding sources. Consequently, the occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our growth or future losses may require us to raise additional capital in the future, but that capital may not be available when it is needed, or the cost of that capital may be very high.
We are required by federal regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support our operations. At some point, we may need to raise additional capital or issue additional debt to support our growth or replenish future losses. Our ability to raise additional capital or issue additional debt depends on conditions in the capital markets, economic conditions and a number of other factors, including investor perceptions regarding the banking industry, market conditions and governmental activities, and on our financial condition and performance. Such borrowings or additional capital, if sought, may not be available to us or, if available, may not be on favorable terms.
Accordingly, we cannot make assurances that we will be able to raise additional capital or issue additional debt if needed on terms that are acceptable to us, or at all. If we cannot raise additional capital or issue additional debt when needed, our ability to further expand our operations could be materially impaired and our financial condition and liquidity could be materially and adversely affected. In addition, any additional capital we obtain may result in the dilution of the interests of existing holders of our common stock. Further, if we are unable to raise additional capital when required by our bank regulators, we may be subject to adverse regulatory action.
Our liquidity is dependent on dividends from the Bank.
The Company is a legal entity separate and distinct from the Bank. A substantial portion of our cash flow, including cash flow to pay principal and interest on any debt we may incur, including the Notes, comes from dividends the Company receives from the Bank. Various federal and state laws and regulations limit the amount of dividends that the Bank may pay to the Company. Because our ability to receive dividends or loans from the Bank is restricted, our ability to pay dividends to our shareholders may also be restricted. Also, the Company’s right to participate in a distribution of assets upon a subsidiary’s liquidation or reorganization is subject to the prior claims of the subsidiary’s creditors. In the event the Bank is unable to pay dividends to us, we may not be able to service any debt we may incur, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.
We rely heavily on our management team and could be adversely affected by the unexpected loss of key officers and relationship managers.
We are led by an experienced management team with substantial experience in the markets that we serve and the financial products that we offer. Our operating strategy focuses on providing products and services through long-term relationship managers. Accordingly, our success depends in large part on the performance of our key personnel, as well as on our ability to attract, motivate and retain highly qualified senior and middle management. Competition for employees is intense, and the process of locating key personnel with the combination of skills and attributes required to execute our business plan may be lengthy. We may not be successful in retaining our key employees and the unexpected loss of services of one or more of our key personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business because of their skills, knowledge of our market and financial products, years of industry experience, long-term client relationships and the difficulty of promptly finding qualified replacement personnel. If the services of any of our key personnel should become unavailable for any reason, we may not be able to identify and hire qualified persons on terms acceptable to us, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Severe weather, natural disasters, or other catastrophes could significantly impact our business.
Severe weather, natural disasters, widespread disease or pandemics, acts of war or terrorism or other adverse external events could have a significant impact on our ability to conduct business. In addition, such events could affect the stability of our deposit base, impair the ability of borrowers to repay outstanding loans and leases, impair the value of collateral securing loans, cause significant property damage, result in loss of revenue or cause us to incur additional expenses. The occurrence of any of these events in the future could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Climate change may materially adversely affect the Company's business and results of operations.
Concerns over the long-term impacts of climate change have led and will continue to lead to governmental efforts around the world to mitigate those impacts. Consumers and businesses also may change their behavior on their own as a result of these concerns. We and our clients will need to respond to new laws and regulations as well as consumer and business preferences resulting from climate change concerns. We and our clients may face cost increases, asset value reductions and operating process changes. The impact on our clients will likely vary depending on their specific attributes, including reliance on or role in carbon intensive activities. Among the impacts to us could be a drop in demand for our products and services, particularly in certain industry sectors. In addition, we could face reductions in creditworthiness on the part of some clients or in the value of assets securing loans. Our efforts to take these risks into account in making lending and other decisions, including by increasing our business with climate-friendly companies, may not be effective in protecting us from the negative impact of new laws and regulations or changes in consumer or business behavior.

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

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Item 2. Properties
Our principal executive offices are located at 500 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 200, Walnut Creek, California 94596. Including our principal executive offices, we operate a total of 33 full-service banking branches consisting of branch offices in Northern and Southern California; Denver, Colorado and Custer, Delta, and Grand counties, Colorado; Seattle, Washington and Central New Mexico at December 31, 2021. We currently own 15 of our banking branches and lease the remaining 18 branches, which leases expire on various dates through 2030. At December 31, 2021, all of our leases have an option to renew with renewal periods between three and 12 years. Many of our branches are equipped with automated teller machines and drive through facilities. We believe all of our facilities are suitable for our operational needs.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
Periodically, there have been various claims and lawsuits involving the Company, such as claims to enforce liens, condemnation proceedings on properties in which the Company holds security interests, claims involving the making and servicing of real property loans and other issues incident to the Company’s business. The Company is not a party to any pending legal proceedings that it believes would have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or operations of the Company.

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

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ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
General. Our common stock, since May 4, 2018, is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “BCML”. At March 23, 2022, we had approximately 853 shareholders of record (not including the number of persons or entities holding stock in nominee or street name through various brokerage firms) and 13,695,751 outstanding shares of common stock.
Our cash dividend payout policy is reviewed regularly by management and the Board of Directors. On February 16, 2022 the Company announced that its Board of Directors declared it first quarterly cash dividend of $.05 per share on the Company's outstanding common stock, payable on April 15, 2022 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on March 11, 2022. Any dividends declared and paid in the future would depend upon a number of factors, including capital requirements, our financial condition and results of operations, tax considerations, statutory and regulatory limitations, and general economic conditions. No assurances can be given that any dividends will be paid or that, if paid, will not be reduced or eliminated in future periods. Our future payment of dividends may depend, in part, upon receipt of dividends from the Bank, which are restricted by federal regulations.
Stock Repurchases. The Company’s Board of Directors approved its fifth stock repurchase program in December 2021 pursuant to which the Company may repurchase up to seven percent of the Company’s common stock, or approximately 747,000 shares (in addition to the 657 shares that remained available for repurchase under the Company’s prior stock repurchase program at that date). The repurchase program may be suspended, terminated or modified at any time for any reason, including market conditions, the cost of repurchasing shares, the availability of alternative investment opportunities, liquidity, and other factors deemed appropriate. The repurchase program does not obligate the Company to purchase any particular number of shares. The following table sets forth information with respect to our repurchases of our outstanding common shares during the three months ended December 31, 2021:
Total number of shares
Maximum number of
purchased as part of
shares that may yet be
Total number of
Average price
publicly announced
purchased under the
shares purchased
paid per share
plans or programs
plans or programs
October 1, 2021 - October 31, 2021
1,000
$
18.23
1,000
(343)
November 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
-
-
-
(343)
December 1, 2021 - December 31, 2021
4,125
18.33
4,125
742,532
5,125
$
18.31
5,125
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company purchased a total of 648,734 shares of the Company’s common stock at an average price of $17.81 per share, compared to 1,276,869 shares at an average price of $14.30 per share during the year ended December 31, 2020. At December 31, 2021, 742,532 shares remain available for future purchases under the current stock repurchase plan.
On February 22, 2021, the Company’s board of directors approved its fourth stock repurchase program for the repurchase of up to 560,000 shares of its common stock, or approximately 5% of its outstanding shares, over a one-year period through open market purchases, privately-negotiated transactions, or otherwise in compliance with Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. No shares remained available for repurchase under this program at December 31, 2021.
Equity Compensation Plan Information. The equity compensation plan information presented under subparagraph (d) in Part III, Item 11 of this report is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Item 6. Reserved

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
This discussion and analysis reviews our consolidated financial statements and other relevant statistical data and is intended to enhance your understanding of our financial condition and results of operations. The information in this section has been derived from the Consolidated Financial Statements and footnotes thereto that appear in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Form 10-K. The information contained in this section should be read in conjunction with these Consolidated Financial Statements and footnotes and the business and financial information provided in this Form 10-K. Unless otherwise indicated, the financial information presented in this section reflects the consolidated financial condition and results of operations of BayCom Corp and its subsidiary, United Business Bank. Because we conduct all of our material business operations through the Bank, the entire discussion relates to activities primarily conducted by the Bank.
History and Overview
BayCom is a bank holding company headquartered in Walnut Creek, California. The Company’s wholly owned banking subsidiary, United Business Bank, provides a broad range of financial services primarily to businesses and business owners, as well as individuals, through its network of 33 full-service branches at December 31, 2021, with 15 locations in California, two in Washington, five in New Mexico and 11 in Colorado.
Our principal objective is to continue to increase shareholder value and generate consistent earnings growth by expanding our commercial banking franchise through both strategic acquisitions and organic growth. Since 2010, we have expanded our geographic footprint through ten strategic acquisitions, which includes our most recent acquisition of PEB which closed in February 2022. We believe our strategy of selectively acquiring and integrating community banks has provided us with economies of scale and improved our overall franchise efficiency. We expect to continue to pursue strategic acquisitions and believe our targeted market areas present us with many and varied acquisition opportunities. We are also focused on organic growth, expense management and believe the markets in which we operate currently provide meaningful opportunities to expand our commercial client base and increase our current market share. We believe our geographic footprint, which includes the San Francisco Bay Area and the metropolitan markets of Los Angeles, California, Seattle, Washington, Denver, and Colorado and community markets including Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Custer, Delta and Grand counties, Colorado, provides us with access to low cost, stable core deposits in community markets that we can use to fund commercial loan growth. We strive to provide an enhanced banking experience for our clients by providing them with a comprehensive suite of sophisticated banking products and services tailored to meet their needs, while delivering the high-quality, relationship-based client service of a community bank. At December 31, 2021, the Company, on a consolidated basis, had assets of $2.4 billion, deposits of $2.0 billion and shareholders’ equity of $262.6 million.
We continue to focus on growing our commercial loan portfolios through acquisitions as well as organic growth. At December 31, 2021, we had $1.6 billion in total loans. Of this amount $414.0 million, or 25.1%, consisted of loans we acquired (all of which were recorded to their estimated fair values at the time of acquisition), and $1.2 billion, or 74.9%, consisted of loans we originated.
The profitability of our operations depends primarily on our net interest income after provision for loan losses, which is the difference between interest earned on interest earning assets and interest paid on interest bearing liabilities less the provision for loan losses. The significant 150 basis point reduction in the targeted federal funds rate during the quarter ended March 31, 2020, resulted in a larger impact to our interest earning assets than to our interest bearing liabilities, thereby decreasing our net interest margin to 3.34% for the year ended December 31, 2021, as compared to 3.84% for the year ended December 31, 2020. The decrease in net interest margin during 2021 primarily reflects lower yields on average interest earning assets, partially offset by decreases in the average cost of interest bearing liabilities. The lower yields on average interest earning assets compared to a year earlier was largely due to the impact of the continuing low targeted Fed Funds Rate resulting in lower yields on new loan originations and further declines on floating rate loan yields as well as excess liquidity being invested in low yielding short term investments and interest bearing deposits. Loan
yields in 2021 were, however, impacted favorably as a result of recognition of unamortized deferred fee income on PPP loans forgiven and repaid by the SBA. If market interest rates remain near historic lows, the Company expects continued downward pressure on loan yields. Further, because the length of the COVID-19 pandemic and the efficacy of the extraordinary measures put in place to address its economic consequences are unknown, until the pandemic subsides, the Company’s net interest income and net interest margin may be adversely affected in 2022 and possibly longer.
The provision for loan losses is dependent on changes in our loan portfolio and management’s assessment of the collectability of our loan portfolio, as well as prevailing economic and market conditions. We recorded a $466,000 provision for loan losses in the year ended December 31, 2021, primarily reflecting a decrease in the probable loan losses due to an improvement in the forecasted economic indicators used to calculate the allowance for loan losses since December 31, 2020 and new loan production, compared to a $10.3 million provision for loan losses recorded in 2020.
Our net income is also affected by noninterest income and noninterest expenses. Noninterest income consists of, among other things: (i) service charges on loans and deposits; (ii) gain on sale of loans; and (iii) other noninterest income. Our noninterest income increased $2.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2021, as compared to 2020, primarily attributable to a $3.0 million increase in gain on sale of loans. Noninterest expense includes, among other things: (i) salaries and related benefits; (ii) occupancy and equipment expense; (iii) data processing; (iv) FDIC and state assessments; (v) outside and professional services; (vi) amortization of intangibles; and (vii) other general and administrative expenses. Our noninterest expenses decreased $3.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2021, as compared to 2020. The decrease was primarily attributable to a $2.7 million decrease in data processing expense related to reversing over accrued merger data processing expense related to our GMB acquisition as actual expenses were lower than original estimates. Noninterest income and noninterest expenses are impacted by the growth of our banking operations and growth in the number of loan and deposit accounts both organically and through strategic acquisitions.
Business Strategy
Our strategy is to continue to make strategic acquisitions of financial institutions within the Western United States, grow organically and preserve our strong asset quality through disciplined lending practices. We seek to achieve these results by focusing on the following:
● Strategic Consolidation of Community Banks. We believe our strategy of selectively acquiring and integrating community banks has provided us with economies of scale and improved our overall franchise efficiency. We expect to continue to pursue strategic acquisitions of financial institutions and believe our target market areas present us with numerous acquisition opportunities as many of these financial institutions will continue to be burdened and challenged by new and more complex banking regulations, resource constraints, competitive limitations, rising technological and other business costs, management succession issues and liquidity concerns. In addition, we believe that the breadth of our operating experience and successful track record of integrating prior acquisitions increases the potential acquisition opportunities available to us. We will continue to employ a disciplined approach to our acquisition strategy and only seek to identify and partner with financial institutions that possess attractive market share, low-cost deposit funding and compelling noninterest income generating businesses. Our disciplined approach to acquisitions, consolidations and integrations, includes the following: (i) selectively acquiring community banking franchises only at appropriate valuations, after taking into account risks that we perceive with respect to the targeted bank; (ii) completing comprehensive due diligence and developing an appropriate plan to address any non-acquired credit problems of the targeted institution; (iii) identifying an achievable cost savings estimate; (iv) executing definitive acquisition agreements that we believe provide adequate protections to us; (v) installing our credit procedures, audit and risk management policies and procedures, and compliance standards upon consummation of the acquisition; (vi) collaborating with the target’s management team to execute on synergies and cost saving opportunities related to the acquisition; and (vii) involving a broader management team across multiple departments in order to help ensure the successful integration of all business functions. We believe this approach allows us to realize the benefits of our acquisition and consolidation strategy. We also expect to continue to manage our branch network in order to ensure effective coverage for clients while minimizing any geographic overlap and driving corporate efficiency.
● Enhance the Performance of the Banks We Acquire. We strive to successfully integrate the banks we acquire into our existing operational platform and enhance shareholder value through the creation of efficiencies within the combined operations. We seek to realize operating efficiencies from our recently completed acquisitions by utilizing technology to streamline our operations. We continue to centralize the back-office functions of our acquired banks, as well as realize cost savings through the use of third party vendors and technology, in order to take advantage of economies of scale as we continue to grow. We intend to focus on initiatives that we believe will provide opportunities to enhance earnings, including the continued rationalization of our retail banking footprint through the evaluation of possible branch consolidations or opportunities to sell branches.
● Focus on Lending Growth in Our Metropolitan Markets While Increasing Deposits in Our Community Markets. Our banking footprint has given us experience operating in small communities and large cities. We believe that our presence in smaller communities gives us a relatively stable source of low cost core deposits, while our more metropolitan markets represent strong long term growth opportunities to expand our commercial client base and increase our current market share through organic growth. In acquiring United Business Bank, FSB in 2017, we acquired a large deposit base from the local and regional unionized labor community. As of December 31, 2021, our top ten depositors, which included six labor unions accounted for roughly 5.9% of our total deposits. At that date, nearly 35.8% of our deposit base was comprised of noninterest bearing demand deposit accounts, significantly lowering our aggregate cost of funds.
● Our Team of Seasoned Bankers Represents an Important Driver of our Organic Growth by Expanding Banking Relationships with Current and Potential Clients. We expect to continue to make opportunistic hires of talented and entrepreneurial bankers, to further augment our growth. Our bankers are incentivized to increase the size of their loan and deposit portfolios and generate fee income while maintaining strong credit quality. We also seek to cross sell our various banking products, including our deposit products, to our commercial loan clients, which provides a basis for expanding our banking relationships as well as a stable, low-cost deposit base. We believe we have built a scalable platform that will support our recent growth as well as efficiently and effectively manage our anticipated growth in the future, both organically and through acquisitions. In July 2020, we implemented a new core processing system that strengthened our control environment, improved the efficiency of our financial systems and enhanced our capabilities with regards to future acquisitions.
● Preserve Our Asset Quality Through Disciplined Lending Practices. Our approach to credit management uses well defined policies and procedures, disciplined underwriting criteria and ongoing risk management. We believe we are a competitive and effective commercial lender, supplementing ongoing and active loan servicing with early stage credit review provided by our bankers. This approach has allowed us to maintain loan growth with a diversified portfolio of assets. We believe our credit culture supports accountability amongst our bankers, who maintain an ability to expand our client base as well as make sound decisions for our Company. As of December 31, 2021, our ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets was 0.29% and our ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans was 0.41%. In the 18 years since our inception, which timeframe includes the recent recession in the U.S. and a global pandemic, we have cumulative net charge-offs of $7.1 million. We believe our success in managing asset quality is illustrated by our aggregate net charge-off history.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The JOBS Act permits us an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards affecting public companies. We have elected to take advantage of this extended transition period, which means that the financial statements included in this annual report on Form 10-K, as well as any financial statements that we file in the future, will not be subject to all new or revised accounting standards generally applicable to public companies for the transition period for so long as we remain an emerging growth company or until we affirmatively and irrevocably opt out of the extended transition period under the JOBS Act. The following represent our critical accounting policies:
Allowance for loan losses. The allowance for loan losses is evaluated on a regular basis by management. Periodically, we charge current earnings with provisions for estimated probable losses of loans receivable. The provision or adjustment takes into consideration the adequacy of the total allowance for loan losses giving due consideration to specifically identified problem loans, the financial condition of the borrowers, fair value of the underlying collateral, recourse provisions, prevailing economic conditions, and other factors. Additional consideration is given to our historical loan loss experience relative to our loan portfolio concentrations related to industry, collateral and geography. Additional analysis was also completed on the allowance for loan losses during 2021 based on the significance of loan modifications in accordance with the CARES Act and regulatory guidance, loan risk rating downgrades as well as additional risk factors related to COVID-19. Our evaluation of the allowance for loan losses is inherently subjective and requires estimates that are susceptible to significant change as additional or new information becomes available. In addition, regulatory examiners may require additional allowances based on their judgments of the information regarding problem loans and credit risk available to them at the time of their examinations.
Generally, the allowance for loan losses consists of various components including a component for specifically identified weaknesses as a result of individual loans being impaired, a component for general non- specific weakness related to historical experience, economic conditions and other factors that indicate probable loss in the loan portfolio. Loans determined to be impaired are individually evaluated by management for specific risk of loss.
In situations where, for economic or legal reasons related to a borrower’s financial difficulties, we grant a concession to the borrower that we would not otherwise consider, the related loan is classified as a troubled debt restructuring, or TDR. We measure any loss on the TDR in accordance with the guidance concerning impaired loans set forth above. Additionally, TDRs are generally placed on non-accrual status at the time of restructuring and included in impaired loans. These loans are returned to accrual status after the borrower demonstrates performance with the modified terms for a sustained period of time (generally six months) and has the capacity to continue to perform in accordance with the modified terms of the restructured debt.
Estimated expected cash flows related to purchased credit impaired loans (“PCI”). Loans purchased with evidence of credit deterioration since origination for which it is probable that all contractually required payments will not be collected are accounted for under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality. In situations where such PCI loans have similar risk characteristics, loans may be aggregated into pools to estimate cash flows. A pool is accounted for as a single asset with a single interest rate, cumulative loss rate and cash flow expectation.
The cash flows expected over the life of the PCI loan or pool are estimated using an internal cash flow model that projects cash flows and calculates the carrying values of the pools, book yields, effective interest income and impairment, if any, based on pool level events. Assumptions as to default rates, loss severity and prepayment speeds are utilized to calculate the expected cash flows.
Expected cash flows at the acquisition date in excess of the fair value of loans are considered to be accretable yield, which is recognized as interest income over the life of the loan or pool using a level yield method if the timing and amounts of the future cash flows of the pool are reasonably estimable. Subsequent to the acquisition date, any increase in cash flow over those expected at purchase date in excess of fair value is recorded as interest income prospectively. Any subsequent decreases in cash flow over those expected at purchase date are recognized by recording an allowance for loan losses. Any disposals of loans, including sales of loans, payments in full or foreclosures result in the removal of the loan from the loan pool at the carrying amount.
Business combinations. We apply the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations. Under the acquisition method, the acquiring entity in a business combination recognizes all of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their acquisition date fair values. Management utilizes prevailing valuation techniques appropriate for the asset or liability being measured in determining these fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over amounts allocated to assets acquired, including identifiable intangible assets, and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. Where amounts allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed is greater than the purchase price, a bargain purchase gain is recognized. Acquisition related costs are expensed as incurred unless they are directly attributable to the issuance of the Company’s common stock in a business combination.
Loan sales and servicing of financial assets. Periodically, we sell loans and retain the servicing rights. The gain or loss on sale of loans depends in part on the previous carrying amount of the financial assets involved in the transfer, allocated between the assets sold and the retained interests based on their relative fair value at the date of transfer. All servicing assets and liabilities are initially measured at fair value. In addition, we amortize servicing rights in proportion to and over the period of the estimated net servicing income or loss and assess the rights for impairment.
Income taxes. Deferred income taxes are computed using the asset and liability method, which recognizes a liability or asset representing the tax effects, based on current tax law, of future deductible or taxable amounts attributable to events that have been recognized in the financial statements. A valuation allowance is established to reduce the deferred tax asset to the level at which it is “more likely than not” that the tax asset or benefits will be realized. Realization of tax benefits of deductible temporary differences and operating loss carry forwards depends on having sufficient taxable income of an appropriate character within the carry forward periods.
We recognize that the tax effects from an uncertain tax position can be recognized in the financial statements only if, based on its merits, the position is more likely than not to be sustained on audit by the taxing authorities. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recorded as part of income tax expense.
Goodwill. Goodwill, which has resulted from a number of our acquisitions, is reviewed for impairment annually, or between annual assessments if a triggering event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not result in the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. We make a qualitative assessment whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit where goodwill is assigned is less than its carrying amount. Such indicators may include, among others: a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the general business climate; significant decline in the Company’s stock price and market capitalization; unanticipated competition; and an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. Any adverse changes in these factors could have a significant impact on the recoverability of goodwill and could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
As of December 31, 2021, the Company concluded that the goodwill of the Company’s reporting unit, the Bank, is not more likely than not to be impaired.
BayCom’s Response to COVID-19
The Company maintains its commitment to supporting its community and clients during the COVID-19 pandemic and remains focused on keeping its employees safe and the Bank running effectively to serve its clients. As of December 31, 2021, all Bank branches were open with normal hours and substantially all employees had returned to their normal working environments. The Bank will continue to monitor branch access and occupancy levels in relation to cases and close contact scenarios and follow governmental restrictions and public health authority guidelines.
Comparison of Financial Condition at December 31, 2021 and 2020
Total assets. Total assets increased $155.0 million, or 7.1%, to $2.4 billion at December 31, 2021 from $2.2 billion at December 31, 2020. The increase was primarily due to an $80.4 million, or 26.8%, increase in cash and cash equivalents, a $58.8 million, or 50.9%, increase in total investment available for sale securities and a $21.4 million, or 1.3%, increase in loans, net of allowance for loan losses. These increases in total assets were primarily funded by deposit growth.
Cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents increased $80.4 million, or 26.8%, to $379.7 million at December 31, 2021 from $299.3 million at December 31, 2020. The increase was primarily a result of loan repayments and an increase in total deposits, which exceeded the funds required for loan originations and used for purchases of investment securities. We intend to invest our excess cash in loans and marketable securities until such funds are needed to support acquisitions or other growth oriented operating or strategic initiatives.
Securities. Our investment policy is established by the Board of Directors and monitored by the board’s risk committee. It is designed primarily to provide and maintain liquidity, generate a favorable return on investments without incurring undue interest rate and credit risk, and complements our lending activities. The policy dictates the criteria for
classifying securities as either available for sale or held to maturity. The policy permits investment in various types of liquid assets permissible under applicable regulations, which include U.S. Treasury obligations, U.S. Government agency obligations, some certificates of deposit of insured banks, mortgage backed and mortgage related securities, corporate notes and municipal bonds. Investment in non-investment grade bonds and stripped mortgage-backed securities is not permitted under the policy.
Investment securities, all of which are classified as available-for-sale, increased $58.8 million, or 50.9%, to $174.4 million at December 31, 2021 from $115.6 million at December 31, 2020.
The following table sets forth certain information regarding contractual maturities and the weighted average yields of our available for sale investment securities as of December 31, 2021. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities if borrowers have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. The weighted average yields were calculated by multiplying each carrying value by its yield and dividing the sum of these results by the total carrying values. Yields on tax-exempt investments are not calculated on a fully tax equivalent basis.
Amount Due or Repricing Within:
One Year
Over One
Over Five
Over
or Less
to Five Years
to Ten Years
Ten Years
Total
Weighted
Weighted
Weighted
Weighted
Weighted
Amortized
Average
Amortized
Average
Amortized
Average
Amortized
Average
Amortized
Average
Cost
Yield
Cost
Yield
Cost
Yield
Cost
Yield
Cost
Yield
(Dollars in thousands)
Preferred equity securities
$
-
-
%
$
18,331
4.48
%
$
-
-
%
$
-
-
%
$
18,331
4.48
%
U.S. Government Agencies
-
-
1,510
0.16
-
-
-
-
1,510
0.16
Municipal securities
1.80
8,987
1.41
12,045
1.42
1,769
10.63
23,645
2.12
Mortgage-backed securities
2.64
5,574
2.98
6,524
1.72
21,454
2.09
33,570
2.16
Collateralized mortgage obligations
-
-
7,119
2.72
4,168
2.21
16,345
1.74
27,632
2.07
SBA securities
-
-
3.03
1.33
5,247
1.92
6,055
1.94
Corporate bonds
-
-
-
-
55,900
4.31
4,750
3.80
60,650
4.27
Total
$
1.81
%
$
41,850
2.43
%
$
79,116
3.57
%
$
49,565
2.25
%
$
171,393
2.95
%
See “Note 3 - Investment Securities” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in “Part II. Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this report on Form 10-K for additional information on our investment securities.
Loans, net. We originate a wide variety of loans with a focus on commercial real estate loans and commercial and industrial loans. Loans receivable, net of allowance for loan losses, increased $21.4 million, or 1.3%, to $1.7 billion at December 31, 2021, from $1.6 billion at December 31, 2020. The increase was primarily due to loan originations totaling $532.7 million including $98.7 million in PPP loans partially offset by loan repayments totaling $467.5 million, including $164.8 million in PPP loan forgiveness repayments from the SBA. We also sold $45.8 million of the guaranteed portion of SBA loans during 2021. Loan originations in 2021 were concentrated in California markets, primarily Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento/Northern California with commercial and multifamily real estate secured loans accounting for the majority of the originations.
The following table provides information about our loan portfolio by type of loan, with PCI loans presented as a separate balance, at the dates presented.
As of December 31,
Percent
Percent
of
of
Amount
Total
Amount
Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial and industrial (1)
$
229,871
13.8
%
$
309,339
18.8
%
Real estate:
Residential
116,656
7.0
162,203
9.8
Multifamily residential
206,960
12.4
238,179
14.5
Owner occupied CRE
393,978
23.6
404,213
24.5
Non-owner occupied CRE
688,600
41.3
489,752
29.7
Construction and land
13,371
0.9
22,645
1.4
Total real estate
1,419,565
85.2
1,316,992
80.0
Consumer
5,138
0.3
5,218
0.3
PCI loans
12,219
0.7
15,610
0.9
Total Loans
1,666,793
100.0
%
1,647,159
100.0
%
Net deferred loan fees
(1,903)
(3,847)
Allowance for loan losses
(17,700)
(17,500)
Loans, net
$
1,647,190
$
1,625,812
(1) Includes $69.6 million and $135.6 million of PPP loans as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
The following table shows at December 31, 2021, the geographic distribution of our loan portfolio in dollar amounts and percentages.
San Francisco Bay
Total in State of
Area(1)
Other California
California
All Other States(2)
Total
% of
% of
% of
% of
% of
Total in
Total in
Total in
Total in
Total in
Amount
Category
Amount
Category
Amount
Category
Amount
Category
Amount
Category
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial and industrial
$
80,457
13.6
%
$
68,586
11.8
%
$
149,043
12.7
%
$
81,134
16.3
%
$
230,177
13.8
%
Real estate:
Residential
$
23,135
3.9
%
$
42,218
7.3
%
$
65,353
5.6
%
$
53,070
10.7
%
$
118,423
7.1
%
Multifamily residential
66,425
11.3
80,328
13.8
146,753
12.5
60,207
12.1
206,960
12.4
Owner occupied CRE
185,046
31.4
143,122
24.6
328,168
28.0
65,810
13.3
393,978
23.6
Non-owner occupied CRE
233,587
39.6
243,358
41.9
476,945
40.8
221,801
44.7
698,746
41.9
Construction and land
0.2
1,310
0.2
2,199
0.2
11,172
2.2
13,371
0.8
Total real estate
$
509,082
$
510,336
$
1,019,418
$
412,060
$
1,431,478
Consumer
0.0
%
1,703
0.3
%
1,716
0.1
%
3,422
0.7
%
5,138
0.3
%
Total loans
$
589,552
$
580,625
$
1,170,177
$
496,616
$
1,666,793
(1) Includes Alameda, Contra Costa, Solano, Sonoma, Marin, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.
(2) Includes loans located in the states of Colorado, New Mexico, Washington and other states. At December 31, 2021, loans in Colorado, New Mexico and Washington totaled $123.2 million, $69.5 million and $86.6 million, respectively.
The following table provides information about our loan portfolio segregated by legacy and acquired loans, net of their discounts at the dates presented.
As of December 31,
Non-
Non-
Acquired
Acquired
Total
Acquired
Acquired
Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial and industrial
$
226,499
$
3,372
$
229,871
$
301,575
$
7,764
$
309,339
Real estate:
Residential
98,707
17,949
116,656
103,471
58,732
162,203
Multifamily residential
203,599
203,932
234,110
4,069
238,179
Owner-occupied CRE
384,778
4,087
388,865
363,963
40,250
404,213
Non-owner occupied CRE
683,997
12,744
696,741
457,634
32,118
489,752
Construction and land
12,809
13,371
17,233
5,412
22,645
Total real estate
1,383,890
35,675
1,419,565
1,176,411
140,581
1,316,992
Consumer
5,118
5,138
5,144
5,218
PCI loans
-
12,219
12,219
-
15,610
15,610
Total Loans
1,615,507
51,286
1,666,793
1,483,130
164,029
1,647,159
Deferred loan fees and costs, net
(1,907)
(1,903)
(3,857)
(3,847)
Allowance for loan losses
(17,700)
-
(17,700)
(17,500)
-
(17,500)
Loans, net
$
1,595,900
$
51,290
$
1,647,190
$
1,461,773
$
164,039
$
1,625,812
The following table schedules illustrate the contractual maturity and repricing information for our loan portfolio at December 31, 2021. Loans which have adjustable or renegotiable interest rates are shown as maturing in the period during which the contract is due. Purchased credit impaired loans are reported at their contractual interest rate. The schedule does not reflect the effects of possible prepayments or enforcement of due on sale clauses.
Maturing
Maturing
Maturing
After One
After Five
Maturing
Within
to Five
to Fifteen
After Fifteen
One Year
Years
Years
Years
Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial and industrial
$
39,807
$
109,154
$
79,763
$
1,147
$
229,871
Real estate:
Residential
3,281
32,038
37,171
44,166
116,656
Multifamily residential
25,739
80,905
96,564
203,932
Owner-occupied CRE
10,022
123,399
196,187
59,257
388,865
Non-owner occupied CRE
36,573
123,546
516,927
19,695
696,741
Construction and land
8,254
2,549
2,568
-
13,371
Total real estate
58,854
307,271
833,758
219,682
1,419,565
Consumer and other
1,570
1,770
1,798
-
5,138
PCI loans
1,815
3,199
6,170
1,035
12,219
Total loans
$
102,046
$
421,394
$
921,489
$
221,864
$
1,666,793
The following table sets forth the amounts of loans due after December 31, 2022 with fixed or adjustable rates:
Fixed
Adjustable
Rate
Rate
Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial and industrial
$
145,673
$
44,391
$
190,064
Real estate:
Residential
35,390
77,985
113,375
Commercial Real Estate
464,132
778,085
1,242,217
Construction and land
2,216
2,902
5,118
Total real estate
501,738
858,972
1,360,710
Consumer and other
3,026
3,567
PCI loans
3,250
7,156
10,406
Total loans
$
651,202
$
913,545
$
1,564,747
The following table sets forth the originations, purchases, sales and repayments of loans as of the dates indicated.
Years ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans originated
Commercial and industrial
$
108,275
$
157,997
Real estate:
Residential
6,855
7,040
Multifamily residential
30,795
14,623
Owner occupied CRE
82,457
53,167
Non-owner occupied CRE
288,096
92,352
Construction and land
4,309
6,277
Total real estate
412,512
173,459
Consumer
Total loans originated
520,811
331,553
Loans purchased
Net loans purchased in acquisitions
-
98,410
Other loans purchased
11,950
67,636
Loans sold
Commercial and Industrial
(12,471)
(9,918)
Owner occupied CRE
(32,880)
(14,035)
Non-owner occupied CRE
(495)
Other
Principal repayments
(467,531)
(281,020)
Transfer to real estate owned
-
(505)
(Increase)/decrease in allowance for loan losses and other items, net
(200)
(10,100)
Net increase in loans receivable and loans held for sale
$
19,184
$
182,021
Nonperforming assets and nonaccrual loans. Nonperforming assets consist of nonaccrual loans, accruing loans more than 90 days delinquent and other real estate owned. Nonperforming assets decreased $2.2 million to $6.9 million at December 31, 2021 from $9.1 million at December 31, 2020, primarily due to a decrease in nonaccrual loans. The Company had nonaccrual loans totaling $6.9 million or 0.41% of total loans, of which $822,000 are guaranteed by governmental agencies at December 31, 2021, compared to $8.4 million or 0.51% of total loans at December 31, 2020. Included in nonaccrual loans at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, are $1.6 million and $567,000, respectively, of TDRs. This decrease in nonaccrual loans during 2021 was primarily driven by an $830,000 decline in nonaccrual commercial real estate loans and a $608,000 decline in nonaccrual consumer loans. There were no loans that were 90 days or more past due and still accruing at December 31, 2021, compared to one loan totaling $233,000 at December 31, 2020. At December 31, 2021, accruing loans past due 30 to 89 days totaled $2.6 million, compared to $734,000 at December 31, 2020. The increase in past due 30 to 89 days at December 31, 2021 primarily related to five loans totaling $1.4 million that were less than 60 days past due and have since been brought current. At December 31, 2021, there were no loans which were past due 90 days or more and still accruing interest, compared to $233,000 at December 31, 2020. Other real estate owned totaled $21,000 and $429,000 at December 31, 2021, and December 31, 2020, respectively.
In general, loans are placed on nonaccrual status after being contractually delinquent for more than 90 days, or earlier, if management believes full collection of future principal and interest on a timely basis is unlikely. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, all interest accrued but not received is charged against interest income. When the ability to fully collect nonaccrual loan principal is in doubt, cash payments received are applied against the principal balance of the loan until such time as full collection of the remaining recorded balance is expected. Generally, loans with temporarily impaired values and loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties are placed on nonaccrual status even though the borrowers continue to repay the loans as scheduled. Such loans are categorized as performing nonaccrual loans and are reflected in nonperforming assets. Interest received on such loans is recognized as interest income when received. A nonaccrual loan is restored to an accrual basis when principal and interest payments are paid current, and full payment of principal and interest is probable. Loans that are well secured and in the process of collection will remain on accrual status.
Purchased loans acquired in a business combination are recorded at estimated fair value on their purchase date, without a carryover of the related allowance for loan and lease losses. These acquired loans are segregated into three types: pass rated loans with no discount attributable to credit quality, non-impaired loans with a discount attributable at least in part to credit quality, and impaired loans with evidence of significant credit deterioration.
● Pass rated loans (typically performing loans) are accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 310-20 “Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs” as these loans do not have evidence of credit deterioration since origination.
● Non-impaired loans (typically performing substandard loans) are accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 310-30, if they display at least some level of credit deterioration since origination.
● Impaired loans (typically substandard loans on non-accrual status) are accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 310-30, as they display significant credit deterioration since origination.
For pass rated loans (non-purchased credit impaired loans), the difference between the estimated fair value of the loans and the principal outstanding is accreted over the remaining life of the loans.
In accordance with ASC Topic 310-30, for both purchased non-impaired loans (performing substandard loans) and purchased credit-impaired loans, the loans are pooled by loan type and the difference between contractually required payments at acquisition and the cash flows expected to be collected is referred to as the non-accretable difference. Further, any excess of cash flows expected at acquisition over the estimated fair value is referred to as the accretable yield and is recognized into interest income over the remaining life of the loan pools when there is a reasonable expectation about the amount and timing of such cash flows.
Troubled debt restructured loans. Troubled debt restructurings, or TDRs, which are accounted for under ASC Topic 310-40, are loans which have renegotiated loan terms to assist borrowers who are unable to meet the original terms of their loans. Such modifications to loan terms may include a below market interest rate, a reduction in principal, or a longer term to maturity. TDR loans of December 31, 2021 totaled $2.4 million, of which $805,000 were accruing and performing according to their restructured terms. TDR loans of December 31, 2020 totaled $1.4 million, of which $798,000 were accruing and performing according to their restructured terms. The accruing TDR loans are not considered nonperforming assets as they continue to accrue interest despite being considered impaired due to the restructured status. There was a related allowance for loan losses on the TDR loans of none and $35,000 at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.
The Company provided payment and financial relief programs for borrowers impacted by COVID-19. All loans modified due to COVID-19 were separately monitored and any request for continuation of relief beyond the initial modification was reassessed at that time to determine if a further modification should be granted and if a downgrade in risk rating was appropriate. As December 31, 2021, the Company had two commercial real estate loans totaling $2.7 million operating under forbearance agreements due to COVID-19, compared to 43 loans totaling $66.7 million at December 31, 2020. Since these loans were performing loans that were current on their payments prior to COVID-19 pandemic, these modifications are not considered to be troubled debt restructurings at December 31, 2021, pursuant to applicable accounting and regulatory guidance.
All loans modified due to COVID-19 are separately monitored and any request for continuation of relief beyond the initial modification will be reassessed at that time to determine if a further modification should be granted and if a downgrade in risk rating is appropriate. Loan modifications in accordance with the CARES Act and related banking agency guidance are still subject to an evaluation in regard to determining whether or not a loan is deemed to be impaired.
Past due loans totaled $7.0 million at December 31, 2021, as compared to $5.3 million at December 31, 2020.
The following table sets forth the nonperforming loans, nonperforming assets and troubled debt restructured loans as of the dates indicated:
December 31,
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
Loans accounted for on a nonaccrual basis:
Commercial and industrial
$
$
Real estate:
Residential
1,587
2,195
Multifamily residential
Owner occupied CRE
3,990
4,651
Non-owner occupied CRE
Construction and land
Total real estate
6,135
7,573
Consumer
-
-
Total nonaccrual loans
6,888
8,421
Accruing loans 90 days or more past due
-
Total nonperforming loans
6,888
8,654
Real estate owned
Total nonperforming assets (1)
$
6,909
$
9,083
Troubled debt restructurings - performing
PCI loans
$
12,219
$
15,610
Nonperforming assets to total assets (1)
0.29
%
0.41
%
Nonperforming loans to total loans (1)
0.41
%
0.53
%
(1) Performing TDRs are neither included in nonperforming loans above nor are they included in the numerators used to calculate this ratio.
Loans under ASC Topic 310-30 are considered performing and are not included in nonperforming assets in the table above. At both December 31, 2021, and December 31, 2020, we had no credit impaired loans under ASC Topic 310-30 that were 90 days past due and still accruing.
Allowance for loan losses. The allowance for loan losses is maintained to cover losses that are estimated in accordance with GAAP. It is our estimate of loan losses inherent in our loan portfolio at each balance sheet date. Our methodology for analyzing the allowance for loan losses consists of general and specific components. For the general component, we stratify the loan portfolio into homogeneous groups of loans that possess similar loss potential characteristics and apply a loss ratio to these groups of loans to estimate the credit losses in the loan portfolio. We use both historical loss ratios and qualitative loss factors assigned to major loan collateral types to establish general component loss allocations. Qualitative loss factors are based on management’s judgment of company, market, industry or business specific data and external economic indicators, which may not yet be reflected in the historical loss ratios, and that could impact our specific loan portfolios. Management and the Board of Directors sets and adjusts qualitative loss factors by regularly reviewing changes in underlying loan composition and the seasonality of specific portfolios. Management and the Board of Directors also considers credit quality and trends relating to delinquency, nonperforming and classified loans within our loan portfolio when evaluating qualitative loss factors. Additionally, management and the Board of Directors adjusts qualitative factors to account for the potential impact of external economic factors, including the unemployment rate, vacancy, capitalization rates, commodity prices and other pertinent economic data specific to our primary market area and lending portfolios.
For the specific component, the allowance for loan losses is established for impaired loans. Management evaluates current information and events regarding a borrower’s ability to repay its obligations and considers a loan to be impaired when the ultimate collectability of amounts due, according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement, is in doubt. If an impaired loan is collateral-dependent, the fair value of the collateral, less the estimated cost to sell, is used to determine the amount of impairment. If an impaired loan is not collateral-dependent, the impairment amount is determined using the
negative difference, if any, between the estimated discounted cash flows and the loan amount due. For impaired loans, the amount of the impairment can be adjusted, based on current data, until such time as the actual basis is established by acquisition of the collateral or until the basis is collected. Impairment losses are reflected in the allowance for loan losses through a charge to the provision for credit losses. Subsequent recoveries are credited to the allowance for loan losses. Cash receipts for accruing loans are applied to principal and interest under the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Cash receipts on impaired loans for which the accrual of interest has been discontinued are applied first to principal.
In accordance with acquisition accounting, loans acquired in our acquisitions were recorded at their estimated fair value, which resulted in a net discount to the loans contractual amounts, of which a portion reflects a discount for possible credit losses. Credit discounts are included in the determination of fair value and as a result no allowance for loan losses is recorded for acquired loans at the acquisition date. Although the discount recorded on the acquired loans is not reflected in the allowance for loan losses, or related allowance coverage ratios, we believe it should be considered when comparing the current ratios to similar ratios in periods prior to the acquisition. As of December 31, 2021, acquired loans, net of their discounts, totaled $51.3 million compared to $164.0 million at December 31, 2020, due to regular amortization, repayments, renewals of loans, coupled with the migration of acquired loans out of the discounted acquired loan portfolio. The remaining net discount on these acquired loans was $2.1 million and $3.3 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The $69.6 million balance of PPP loans was omitted from the calculation for the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2021 as these loans are fully guaranteed by the SBA.
The following table shows certain credit ratios at and for the periods indicated and each component of the ratio’s calculations.
Years ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans outstanding at period end
1.06
%
1.06
%
Allowance for loan losses
$
1,666,793
$
1,647,159
Total loans outstanding
$
17,700
$
17,500
Non-accrual loans as a percentage of total loans outstanding at period end
0.41
%
0.53
%
Total non-accrual loans
$
6,888
$
8,654
Total loans outstanding
$
1,666,793
$
1,647,159
Allowance for loan losses as a percentage of non-accrual loans at period end
257.0
%
202.2
%
Allowance for loan losses
$
17,700
$
17,500
Total non-accrual loans
$
6,888
$
8,654
Net charge-offs/(recoveries) during period to average loans outstanding:
Commercial and industrial:
0.08
%
0.06
%
Net charge-offs
$
$
Average loans outstanding
$
260,000
$
328,015
Construction and land:
(0.02)
%
0.08
%
Net (recoveries)/charge-offs
$
(4)
$
Average loans outstanding
$
17,728
$
23,990
Commercial estate:
0.00
%
0.00
%
Net charge-offs/(recoveries)
$
$
(4)
Average loans outstanding
$
1,254,627
$
1,151,649
Residential:
-
%
-
%
Net charge-offs
$
-
$
Average loans outstanding
$
115,639
$
175,932
Residential:
-
%
-
%
Net charge-offs
$
-
$
-
Average loans outstanding
$
115,639
$
175,932
Consumer:
0.34
%
0.32
%
Net charge-offs
$
$
Average loans outstanding
$
2,371
$
5,310
Total loans:
0.02
%
0.01
%
Total net charge-offs
$
$
Total average loans outstanding
$
1,650,365
$
1,684,896
The following table shows the allocation of the allowance for loan losses at the indicated dates.
As of December 31,
Percent of
Percent of
Loans in
Loans in
Allowance
Category
Allowance
Category
Loan
by Loan
to Total
Loan
by Loan
to Total
Balance
Category
Loans
Balance
Category
Loans
(Dollars in thousands)
Commercial and industrial
$
229,871
$
3,262
13.8
%
$
309,339
$
4,042
18.8
%
Real estate:
Residential
116,656
1,536
7.0
162,203
1,859
9.8
Multifamily residential
206,960
1,197
12.4
238,179
1,634
14.5
Owner-occupied CRE
393,978
4,024
23.6
404,213
4,041
24.5
Non-owner occupied CRE
688,600
7,489
41.3
489,752
5,535
29.7
Construction and land
13,371
0.8
22,645
1.4
Total real estate
1,419,565
14,419
85.2
1,316,992
13,448
80.0
Consumer
5,138
0.3
5,218
0.3
PCI loans
12,219
-
0.7
15,610
-
0.9
Total Loans
$
1,666,793
$
17,700
100.0
%
$
1,647,159
$
17,500
100.0
%
The allowance for loan losses increased $200,000, or 1.1%, to $17.7 million at December 31, 2021, from $17.5 million at December 31, 2020. The increase in the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2021 was primarily due to the increase in total loans, partially offset by the continued improvement since December 31, 2020 in the national and local economy associated with the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, which reduced the loss rates utilized to calculate the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2021 as compared to the uncertain economic outlook and loss rates utilized at December 31, 2020, as well as net charge offs of $226,000 during 2021. PPP loans were omitted from the calculation of the required allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 as these loans are fully guaranteed by the SBA and management expects that a majority of SBA PPP borrowers will seek full or partial forgiveness of their loan obligations from the SBA, which in turn, the SBA will reimburse the Bank for the amount forgiven. Included in the carrying value of loans are net discounts on acquired loans which may reduce the need for an allowance for loan losses on these loans because they are carried at their estimated fair value on the date on which they were acquired.
As of December 31, 2021, we identified $7.7 million in impaired loans, inclusive of $6.9 million of nonperforming loans and $765,000 of accruing TDR loans. Of these impaired loans, only $1.1 million had a specific allowance of $931,000 recorded as of December 31, 2021. As of December 31, 2020, we identified $9.2 million in impaired loans, inclusive of $8.4 million of nonperforming loans and $798,000 of accruing TDR loans. Of these impaired loans, only $ 1.3 million had a specific allowance of $521,000 recorded as of December 31, 2020.
Management considers the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2021 to be adequate to cover losses inherent in the loan portfolio based on the assessment of the above-mentioned factors affecting the loan portfolio. While management believes the estimates and assumptions used in its determination of the adequacy of the allowance are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will not be proven incorrect in the future, or that the actual amount of future losses will not exceed the amount of the established allowance for loan losses or that any increased allowance for loan losses that may be required will not adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations. Uncertainties relating to our allowance for loan losses are heightened as a result of the risks surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, including whether government programs will provide adequate relief to borrowers. The ultimate impact will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including the scope and duration of the pandemic and actions taken by governmental authorities in response to the pandemic. A further decline in national and local economic conditions, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic or other factors, could result in a material increase in the allowance for loan losses and may adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. In addition, the determination of the amount of our allowance for loan losses is subject to review by bank regulators, as part of the routine examination process, which may result in additions to our provision for loan losses based upon their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examination.
Right-of-use assets and lease liabilities. On January 1, 2019, the Company adopted the new accounting standards that require lessees to recognize operating leases on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as right-of-use assets and lease liabilities based on the value of the discounted future lease payments. Lessor accounting is largely unchanged. Expanded disclosures about the nature and terms of lease agreements are required prospectively and are included in Note 7 - Leases in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in “Item 8 - Financial Statements” within this report. The Company elected to retain prior determinations of whether an existing contract contains a lease and how the lease should be classified. The recognition of leases existing on January 1, 2019 did not require an adjustment to beginning retained earnings. Upon adoption of the accounting standards, the Company recognized right-of-use assets and lease liabilities of $7.8 million and $8.2 million respectively. Adoption of these accounting standards did not have a significant effect on the Company’s regulatory capital measures.
Right-of-use assets increased $78,000, or 0.6%, to $12.1 million at December 31, 2021 from $12.1 million at December 31, 2020. Lease liabilities increased $329,000, or 2.7%, to $12.7 million at December 31, 2021 from $12.3 million at December 31, 2020.
Premises and Equipment. Premises and equipment decreased $769,000, or 5.1%, to $14.4 million at December 31, 2021 from $15.1 million at December 31, 2020. This decrease in premises and equipment was driven by an increase in amortization and depreciation expenses associated with these assets.
Deposits. Deposits are our primary source of funding and consists of core deposits from the communities served by our branch and office locations. We offer a variety of deposit accounts with a competitive range of interest rates and terms to both consumers and businesses. Deposits include interest bearing and noninterest bearing demand accounts, savings, money market, certificates of deposit and individual retirement accounts. These accounts earn interest at rates established by management based on competitive market factors, management’s desire to increase certain product types or maturities, and in keeping with our asset/liability, liquidity and profitability objectives. Competitive products, competitive pricing and high touch client service are important to attracting and retaining these deposits.
Total deposits increased $146.8 million, or 8.0%, to $2.0 billion at December 31, 2021 from $1.8 billion at December 31, 2020, primarily due to organic growth in client relationships, proceeds from PPP loans and government stimulus checks deposited directly into client accounts, and reduced withdrawals from deposit accounts due to a change in spending habits as a result of COVID-19. Noninterest bearing deposits totaled $710.1 million, or 35.8% of total deposits, at December 31, 2021 compared to $678.4 million, or 36.9% of total deposits, at December 31, 2020.
The following table sets forth the dollar amount of deposits in the various types of deposit programs offered at the dates indicated.
December 31,
Percent
Percent
of Total
Increase/
of Total
Increase/
Amount
Deposits
(Decrease)
Amount
Deposits
(Decrease)
(Dollars in thousands)
Noninterest bearing demand
$
710,137
35.8
%
$
31,771
$
678,365
36.9
%
$
280,320
NOW accounts and savings
484,847
24.4
85,076
399,772
21.7
153,484
Money market
568,094
28.6
51,534
516,560
28.1
118,479
Time deposits
222,161
11.2
(21,539)
243,700
13.3
28,346
Total
$
1,985,239
100.0
%
$
146,842
$
1,838,397
100.0
%
$
580,629
The following table shows time deposits by maturity and rate as of December 31, 2021.
After One
After Two
One Year
Year Through
Years Through
After Three
or Less
Two Years
Three Years
Years
Total
(Dollars in thousands)
0.00 - 0.99%
$
130,686
$
27,860
$
7,303
$
8,352
$
174,201
1.00 - 1.99%
1,594
1,453
12,358
16,075
2.00% and above
30,759
31,885
Total
$
131,602
$
29,829
$
9,261
$
51,469
$
222,161
As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, approximately $1.0 billion and $843.0 million, respectively, of our total deposit portfolio was uninsured. The uninsured amounts are estimates based on the methodologies and assumptions used for United Business Bank’s regulatory reporting requirements. The following table sets forth the portion of our time deposits that are in excess of the FDIC insurance limit, by remaining time until maturity, as of December 31, 2021.
3 months or less
$
6,950
Over 3 through 6 months
12,621
Over 6 through 12 months
45,324
Over 12 months
4,468
$
69,363
For additional information regarding our deposits, see “Note 11 - Deposits” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in “Part II. Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this report on Form 10-K.
Borrowings. Although deposits are our primary source of funds, we may from time to time utilize borrowings as a cost effective source of funds when they can be invested at a positive interest rate spread, for additional capacity to fund loan demand, or to meet our asset/liability management goals. We are a member of and may obtain advances from the FHLB of San Francisco, which is part of the Federal Home Loan Bank System. The eleven regional Federal Home Loan Banks provide a central credit facility for their member institutions. These advances are provided upon the security of certain of our mortgage loans and mortgage-backed securities. These advances may be made pursuant to several different credit programs, each of which has its own interest rate, range of maturities and call features. At December 31, 2021, the Company had no FHLB advances outstanding, compared to $5.0 million of FHLB advances outstanding at December 31, 2020. At December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had the ability to borrow from the FHLB up to $483.1 million and $421.2 million, respectively. In addition to the availability of liquidity from the FHLB of San Francisco, the Bank maintained a short-term borrowing line of credit with the FRB of San Francisco, with available credit capacity of $69.6 million and $135.6 million as of December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively, based on loans that qualify as collateral for the FRB line of credit. At both December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there were no FRB borrowings outstanding.
On August 6, 2020, the Company issued and sold the Notes in an underwritten offering, resulting in net proceeds, after underwriting discounts and offering expenses, $63.4 million. For additional information, see “Item 1 - Business - Sources of Funds”, contained in this report.
If needed, we may also utilize Fed Funds purchased from correspondent banks as a source of short-term funding. At December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had a total of $65.0 million and $75.0 million, respectively, in federal funds line available from third-party financial institutions, and no balances outstanding at these dates.
We are required to provide collateral for certain local agency deposits. As of December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the FHLB had issued a letter of credit on behalf of the Bank totaling $42.0 million and $30.1 million, respectively as collateral for local agency deposits.
At December 31, 2021, we had $8.4 million in aggregate principal (net of mark-to-market adjustments) of junior subordinated debentures issued in connection with the sale of trust preferred securities by two statutory business trusts, which we assumed in our acquisitions. The trust preferred securities accrue and pay distributions periodically at specified annual rates as provided in each trust agreement. The trusts used the net proceeds from each of the offerings to purchase a like amount of junior subordinated debentures (the “Debentures”) of the Company. The Debentures are the sole assets of the trusts. The Company’s obligations under the Debentures and related documents, taken together, constitute a full and unconditional guarantee by the Company of the obligations of the trusts. The trust preferred securities are mandatorily redeemable upon maturity of the Debentures or upon earlier redemption as provided in the indentures. The Company has the right to redeem the Debentures in whole or in part on or after specific dates, at a redemption price specified in the indentures governing the Debentures, plus any accrued but unpaid interest to the redemption date. The Company also has the right to defer the payment of interest on each of the Debentures for a period not to exceed 20 consecutive quarters, provided that the deferral period does not extend beyond the stated maturity. During such deferral period, distributions on the corresponding trust preferred securities will also be deferred and the Company may not pay cash dividends to the holders of shares of the Company’s common stock. The common securities issued by the grantor trusts are held by the Company, and the Company’s investment in the common securities was $484,000 at December 31, 2021, which is included under “Interest receivable and other assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets included in our Consolidated Financial Statements contained in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Form 10-K. Also, see Note 13 - Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Form 10-K.
Shareholders’ equity. Shareholders’ equity increased $10.0 million, or 4.0%, to $262.6 million at December 31, 2021 from $252.6 million at December 31, 2020. The increase in shareholders’ equity was primarily due to $20.7 million of net income, partially offset by the repurchase of $11.6 million of our common stock during 2021. During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company repurchased a total of 648,734 shares of its common stock at a total cost of $11.6 million, or $17.81 per share. At December 31, 2021, 742,532 shares remain available for future purchases under the current stock repurchase plan. See “Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities - Stock Repurchases” contained in this report.
Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
Earnings summary. We reported net income of $20.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to $13.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, an increase of $7.0 million, or 50.7%. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2021 primarily reflects a $9.9 million, or 95.5%, decrease in the provision for loan losses, a $3.4 million, or 6.0%, decrease in noninterest expense and a $2.5 million, or 28.4%, increase in noninterest income, partially offset by a $5.6 million, or 7.0%, decrease in interest income and a $3.3 million, or 73.0%, increase in the provision for income taxes. The $9.9 million decrease in the provision for loan losses was primarily due to continued improvements in the economic forecasts during 2021, as compared to last year when the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted economic conditions. The increase in noninterest income was related to increases in gain on sale of loans of $3.0 million, and increased income from an investment in a Small Business Investment Company (“SBIC”) fund of $399,000, partially offset by a decrease in loan servicing and other fees of $145,000. Noninterest expense during the year ended December 31, 2020, included $3.0 million of acquisition-related expenses for the acquisition of GMB and its wholly owned subsidiary Grand Mountain Bank. Diluted earnings per share were $1.90 for the year ended December 31, 2021, an increase of $0.75 from diluted earnings per share of $1.15 for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Our efficiency ratio, which is calculated by dividing noninterest expense by the sum of net interest income before provision for loan losses plus noninterest income, was 65.57% for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to 67.21% for the year ended December 31, 2020. The improvement in the efficiency ratio during the year ended December 31, 2021 was primarily due the reduced noninterest expense during 2021.
Interest income. Interest income for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $81.6 million, compared to $87.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, a decrease of $5.6 million, or 6.4%. The decrease in interest income primarily was due to a decrease in both the average balance and yield for interest earning assets, principally loans. Interest income on loans decreased $6.1 million as a result of a $39.6 million decrease in the average balance of loans outstanding and a 25 basis point decrease in the average loan yield during the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to 2020.
The average yield earned on loans for the year ended December 31, 2021 was 4.69%, compared to 4.94% for the year ended December 31, 2020. Interest income included $5.4 million in fees earned related to PPP loans during the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to $1.7 million in same period a year ago. As of December 31, 2021, total unrecognized fees on PPP loans were $2.1 million. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the average balance of PPP loans was $78.4 million and the average yield was 7.83%. The impact of PPP loans on loan yields will change during any period based on the volume of prepayments or amounts forgiven by the SBA as certain criteria are met, and will cease completely after the maturity of these loans. Approximately two-thirds of the PPP loans are set to mature by the end of 2022, while the remaining loans have a five-year maturity date. Interest income on loans for the year ended December 31, 2021 included $2.7 million in accretion of purchase accounting fair value adjustments on acquired loans, compared to $5.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The remaining net discount on these acquired loans was $2.1 million and $3.3 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Interest income on investment securities increased $930,000 as a result of a $9.7 million, increase in the average balance of investment securities and 46 basis point increase in the yield on such securities to 3.02% for the year ended December 31, 2021 from 2.56% for the year ended December 31, 2020. Interest income on interest bearing deposits in banks decreased $585,000 due to a 35 basis point decline in the yield on interest bearing deposits to 0.16% for the year ended December 31, 2021 from 0.51% for the year ended December 31, 2020, partially offset by a $9.7 million increase in the average balance of interest bearing deposits in banks during 2021 compared to 2020.
Interest expense. Interest expense decreased by $97,000, or 1.1%, to $8.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 from $8.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The decrease was driven by a $2.1 million decrease in interest expense on deposits, primarily time deposits and money market accounts, and to a lesser extent a $196,000 decrease in interest expense paid on junior subordinated debentures, net and other borrowings. These decreases were partially offset by a $2.2 million increase in interest expense on subordinated debt, net. The average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased six basis points to 0.67% during the year ended December 31, 2021 from 0.73% during the same period in 2020. The total average balance of interest bearing liabilities increased by $91.7 million, or 7.5%, to $1.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2021, from $1.2 billion for the year ended December 31, 2020, primarily due to the issuance of our Notes.
Interest expense on deposits decreased $2.1 million, or 29.9%, to $4.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2021 from $7.0 million in 2020, primarily due to decreases in the average rate paid on interest bearing deposits and a $46.0 million, or 16.7%, decrease in the average balance of higher costing time deposits. The average rate paid on interest bearing deposits decreased to 0.39% for the year ended December 31, 2021, from 0.59% for the year ended December 31, 2020. The overall average cost of deposits for the year ended December 31, 2021 declined to 0.25%, compared to 0.38% for the prior period of 2020 due to an increase in noninterest bearing deposits and a reduction in market interest rates over the last year. The average balance of noninterest bearing deposits increased $55.3 million, or 8.25%, to $725.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $670.1 million during the comparable period during 2020. The decrease in the cost of interest-bearing deposits between the years was driven by market and competitive factors following decreases in the target Fed Funds Rate during the first quarter of 2020 as well as a higher percentage of our interest-bearing deposits being lower costing non-time deposits. Interest expense on borrowings increased $2.0 million, or 101.9%, to $3.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, from $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, as a result of the issuance of the Notes which were outstanding for the entire year in 2021 compared to five months during 2020. The average balance of borrowings outstanding increased $35.1 million to $73.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to $38.5 million during 2020 for the same reason. The average cost of borrowings increased to 5.34% for the year ended December 31, 2021, from 5.06% for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Net interest income. Net interest income decreased $5.5 million, or 7.0%, to $72.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $78.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. Net interest margin for the year ended December 31, 2021 decreased 50 basis point to 3.34% from 3.84% for 2020. During the year ended December 31, 2021, the net interest margin was impacted by lower yielding loans, including PPP loans and resetting adjustable rate instruments as well as reduced interest rates on new fixed-rate real estate loan and adjustable-rate commercial loan originations and the increase in low yielding overnight cash balances causing a decrease in the average yield on interest-earning assets that outweighed the contribution to net interest margin from the decrease in the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities. The decrease in net interest margin was offset partially by an increase in deferred PPP loan fees
recognized due to the volume of forgiven SBA PPP loans during 2021, which benefited net interest margin compared to a reduction in net interest margin from the Company’s origination of low yielding PPP loans during the same period in 2020. PPP loans are originated at an interest rate of 1%, although the effective yield is higher as a result of the origination fees paid to us by the SBA. The average yield on PPP loans was 4.52%, including the recognition of deferred fees, resulting in a positive impact to the net interest margin of 20 basis points during the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to an average yield of 2.71% and positive impact of 11 basis points during 2020. The impact of PPP loans on net interest margin will change during any period based on the volume of prepayments or amounts forgiven by the SBA as certain criteria are net, but will cease completely after the maturity of the loans. Accretion of acquisition accounting discounts on loans and the recognition of revenue from purchase credit impaired loans in excess of discounts increased our net interest margin by 17 basis points and 31 basis points during years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Average Balances, Interest and Average Yields/Cost. The following table presents, for the periods indicated, information about (i) average balances, the total dollar amount of interest income from interest earning assets and the resultant average yields; (ii) average balances, the total dollar amount of interest expense on interest bearing liabilities and the resultant average yields; (iii) net interest income; (iv) the interest rate spread; and (v) the net interest margin. Yields have been calculated on a pre-tax basis. The loan yields include the effect of amortization or accretion of deferred loan fees/costs and purchase accounting premiums/ discounts to interest and fees on loans.
Year ended December 31,
Annualized
Annualized
Annualized
Average
Average
Average
Average
Average
Average
Balance (1)
Interest
Yield
Balance(1)
Interest
Yield
Balance
Interest
Yield
(Dollars in thousands)
Interest earning assets
Interest bearing deposits in banks
$
413,583
$
0.16
%
$
246,474
$
1,251
0.51
%
$
336,931
$
7,464
2.22
%
Investments securities available-for-sale
128,689
3,892
3.02
119,015
2,962
2.56
104,795
2,828
2.70
FHLB Stock
8,198
6.02
7,579
4.49
6,413
7.72
FRB Stock
7,629
6.00
7,446
6.09
4,694
6.28
Total loans
1,623,068
76,099
4.69
1,662,660
82,186
4.94
1,153,390
65,462
5.68
Total interest earning assets
2,181,167
81,609
3.74
%
2,043,174
87,192
4.27
%
1,606,223
76,544
4.77
%
Noninterest earning assets
140,632
145,342
108,631
Total average assets
$
2,321,799
$
2,188,516
$
1,714,854
Interest bearing liabilities
Savings
$
119,778
$
0.14
%
$
107,098
$
0.16
%
$
62,918
0.16
%
NOW accounts
320,568
0.09
270,318
0.09
202,041
0.08
Money market
569,122
2,266
0.40
529,402
2,721
0.51
408,328
2,911
0.71
Time deposits
230,103
2,158
0.94
276,098
3,816
1.38
283,776
5,002
1.76
Total deposit accounts
1,239,571
4,876
0.39
1,182,916
6,954
0.59
957,063
8,165
0.85
Subordinated debt, net
63,453
3,582
5.65
24,938
1,405
5.64
-
-
-
Junior subordinated debentures, net
8,361
4.12
8,280
4.71
9,485
5.98
Other borrowings
1,737
-
-
5,272
2.84
-
-
-
Total interest bearing liabilities
1,313,122
8,802
0.67
%
1,221,406
8,899
0.73
%
966,548
8,732
0.90
%
Noninterest bearing deposits
725,443
670,136
498,787
Other noninterest bearing liabilities
26,652
41,104
19,401
Noninterest bearing liabilities
752,095
711,240
518,188
Total average liabilities
2,065,217
1,932,646
1,484,736
Average equity
256,582
255,869
230,118
Total average liabilities and equity
$
2,321,799
$
2,188,516
$
1,714,854
Net interest income
$
72,807
$
78,293
$
67,812
Interest rate spread (2)
3.07
%
3.54
%
3.87
%
Net interest margin (3)
3.34
%
3.84
%
4.22
%
Ratio of average interest earning assets to average interest bearing liabilities
166.11
%
167.00
%
166.18
%
(1) Average balances are average daily balances.
(2) Interest rate spread is calculated as the average rate earned on interest earning assets minus the average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities.
(3) Net interest margin is calculated as net interest income divided by total average earning assets.
Rate/Volume Analysis. Increases and decreases in interest income and interest expense result from changes in average balances (volume) of interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities, as well as changes in weighted average interest rates. The following table sets forth the effects of changing rates and volumes on our net interest income during the periods shown. Information is provided with respect to (i) effects on interest income attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate) and (ii) effects on interest income attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume). Changes applicable to both volume and rate have been allocated to volume. Yields have been calculated on a pre-tax basis.
Year ended December 31,
Year ended December 31,
2021 compared to 2020
2020 compared to 2019
Increase/(Decrease)
Increase/(Decrease)
Attributable to
Attributable to
Rate
Volume
Total
Rate
Volume
Total
(Dollars in thousands)
(Dollars in thousands)
Interest earning assets
Interest bearing deposits in banks
$
(1,433)
$
$
(585)
$
(4,209)
$
(2,004)
$
(6,213)
Investments available-for-sale
(250)
FHLB stock and FRB stock
(276)
Total loans
(4,081)
(2,006)
(6,087)
(12,253)
28,977
16,724
Total interest income
(4,708)
(875)
(5,583)
(16,988)
27,636
10,648
Interest bearing liabilities
Savings
(22)
(2)
-
NOW accounts
(9)
Money market accounts
(659)
(455)
(1,053)
(190)
Time deposits
(1,022)
(636)
(1,658)
(1,051)
(135)
(1,186)
Total deposit accounts
(1,712)
(366)
(2,078)
(2,060)
(1,211)
Subordinated debt, net
(1,405)
3,582
2,177
-
1,405
1,405
Junior subordinated debentures, net
(50)
(46)
(105)
(72)
(177)
Other borrowings
(150)
-
(150)
-
Total interest expense
(3,317)
3,220
(97)
(2,165)
2,332
Net interest income
$
(1,391)
$
(4,095)
$
(5,486)
$
(14,823)
$
25,304
$
10,481
Provision for loan losses. We establish an allowance for loan losses by charging amounts to the loan provision at a level required to reflect probable loan losses in the loan portfolio. In evaluating the level of the allowance for loan losses, management considers, among other factors, historical loss experience, the types of loans and the amount of loans in the loan portfolio, adverse situations that may affect borrowers’ ability to repay, estimated value of any underlying collateral, prevailing economic conditions and current risk factors specifically related to each loan type. See “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates - Allowance for loan losses” above for a description of the manner in which the provision for loan losses is established.
Based on management’s evaluation of the foregoing factors, we recorded a provision for loan losses of $466,000 for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to a provision for loan losses of $10.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, a decrease of $9.9 million. The decrease in the provision for loan losses was primarily due to an adjustment to the qualitative factors utilized to calculate the allowance for loan losses resulting from improvements in the economic forecast since December 31, 2020. Our allowance for loan losses specific reserves was $930,000 at December 31, 2021, compared to $521,000 at December 31, 2020. We recorded no provision for loan losses for acquired loans related to the acquired non-purchased credit impaired loans as accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 310-20, for both the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. We recorded $107,000 of reversal provisions on the purchase credit impaired loans accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 310-30 during the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to none during 2020.
We had a net charge-offs of $226,000 for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to net charge-offs of $220,000 for the year ended December 31, 2020. In accordance with acquisition accounting, loans acquired from acquisitions were recorded at their estimated fair value, which resulted in a net discount to the loans contractual amounts. Credit discounts are included in the determination of fair value and as a result, no allowance for loan losses is recorded for acquired loans at the acquisition date. However, the allowance for loan loss includes an estimate for credit deterioration of
acquired loans that occurs after the date of acquisition, which is included in the loan loss provision in the period that the deterioration occurred. The discount recorded on the acquired loans is not reflected in the allowance for loan losses, or related allowance coverage ratios. The allowance for loan losses to total loans was 1.06% at both December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Management considers the allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2021 to be adequate to cover losses inherent in the loan portfolio based on the assessment of the above-mentioned factors affecting the loan portfolio. While management believes the estimates and assumptions used in its determination of the adequacy of the allowance are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will not be proven incorrect in the future, or that the actual amount of future losses will not exceed the amount of the established allowance for loan losses or that any increased allowance for loan losses that may be required will not adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations. A further decline in national and local economic conditions, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic or other factors, could result in a material increase in the allowance for loan losses and may adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. In addition, the determination of the amount of our allowance for loan losses is subject to review by bank regulators, as part of the routine examination process, which may result in additions to our provision for loan losses based upon their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examination.
Noninterest income. Noninterest income increased $2.5 million, or 28.2%, to $11.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $8.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase in noninterest income was primarily due to a $3.0 increase in gain on sale of loans and a $399,000 increase in income from our investment in the SBIC fund, partially offset by a $632,000 decrease in loan servicing and other loan fees and a $45,000 decrease in service charges and other fees. During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company sold $45.8 million of SBA loans (the guaranteed portion), which generated a gain on sale of $4.8 million, compared to the sale of $24.0 million of SBA loans and a gain of $1.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2020. SBIC income increased due to improved operating results throughout 2021 after sustaining COVID-19 related losses in 2020. Loan servicing and other loan fees, and service charges and other fees decreased primarily due to lower transaction volume.
The following table presents the key components of noninterest income for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
December 31,
Increase
Increase
(Decrease)
(Decrease)
(Dollars in thousands)
Gain on sale of loans
$
4,795
$
1,835
$
2,960
161.3
%
Service charges and other fees
2,403
2,548
(145)
(5.7)
Loan servicing and other loan fees
1,833
2,465
(632)
(25.6)
Gain (loss) on sale of premises
(28)
(70.0)
Income on investment in SBIC fund
1,274
45.6
Gain on sale of OREO
(71)
(82.6)
Other income and fees
(5)
(0.5)
Total noninterest income
$
11,253
$
8,775
$
2,478
28.2
%
Noninterest expense. Noninterest expense decreased $3.4 million, or 5.8%, to $55.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $58.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. . The decrease was primarily attributable to a $2.7 million or 32.3% decrease in data processing expense related to reversing over accrued merger data processing expense related to our GMB acquisition as actual expenses were lower than original estimates. In addition, other non-interest expense decreased slightly for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to last year reflecting decreased fees paid for employee recruiting and internal auditing and compliance related expenses, and an increase in FDIC insurance premiums as the application of $369,000 in FDIC small bank assessment credits reduced expenses in 2020. Salaries and employee benefits decreased slightly during the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to 2020, primarily due to a decrease in staffing levels. Partially offsetting these decreases was a $296,000 or 4.2% increase in occupancy and equipment expense primarily as a result of normal increases in rent. Noninterest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 included $3.0 million of GMB acquisition-related expenses, comprised of $266,000 in salaries and benefits, $2.0 million in data processing expenses, $369,000 in professional fees and $383,000 in all other expenses.
The following table presents the key components of noninterest expense for the periods indicated:
Year ended December 31,
$ Change
% Change
(Dollars in thousands)
Salaries and employee benefits
$
33,761
$
33,942
$
(181)
(0.5)
%
Occupancy and equipment
7,384
7,088
4.2
Data processing
5,565
8,221
(2,656)
(32.3)
Other
8,419
9,268
(849)
(9.2)
Total noninterest expense
$
55,129
$
58,519
$
(3,390)
(5.8)
%
Income taxes. Income tax expense increased $3.3 million, or 73.0%, to $7.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 from $4.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, reflecting an increase in pre-tax income for the period ended December 31, 2021 and an increase in our effective tax rate. The Company’s effective tax rate was 27.3% for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to 24.7% for 2020. The increase in the effective tax rate during the year ended December 31, 2020 was primarily due to reduction in favorable permanent adjustments as compared to the prior year.
Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2020 and 2019
Earnings summary. We reported net income of $13.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to $17.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, a decrease of $3.6 million, or 20.7%. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2020 was significantly impacted by the higher provision for loan losses primarily related to the consideration of probable loan losses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Diluted earnings per share were $1.15 for the year ended December 31, 2020, a decrease of $0.32 from diluted earnings per share of $1.47 for the year ended December 31, 2019.
Our efficiency ratio, which is calculated by dividing noninterest expense by the sum of net interest income before provision for loan losses plus noninterest income, was 67.21% for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to 66.51% for the year ended December 31, 2019. Increases in noninterest expenses, primarily reflecting growth in our operations from recent acquisitions, outpaced net interest income and noninterest income which were negatively impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Noninterest income decreased during the year ended December 31, 2020, primarily due to lower gains on sale of loans as SBA loans originated for sale and sold have declined because of the pandemic.
Interest income. Interest income for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $87.2 million, compared to $76.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, an increase of $10.7 million, or 13.9%. The increase in interest income primarily was due to an increase in average interest earning assets, principally loans, which was driven primarily by our recent acquisitions and PPP lending. Interest income on loans increased $16.7 million as a result of a $509.3 million increase in the average total loan balance, partially offset by a 74 basis point decrease in the average loan yield during the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to this same period in 2019. The average yield earned on loans for the year ended December 31, 2020 was 4.94%, compared to 5.68% for the year ended December 31, 2019. Interest income included $1.7 million in fees earned related to PPP loans during the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to none in same period a year ago. As of December 31, 2020, total unrecognized fees on PPP loans were $3.5 million. For the year ended December 31, 2020, the average balance of PPP loans was $129.5 million and the average yield was 2.33%. Although the average balance of loans increased, the average yield on net loans decreased compared to the same period in the prior year due primarily to decreases in interest rates on adjustable rate instruments following decreases to short-term rates over the last year, including the emergency 150 basis point reduction in the targeted federal funds rate in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and secondarily due to the impact of PPP loans. The impact of PPP loans on loan yields will change during any period based on the volume of prepayments or amounts forgiven by the SBA as certain criteria are met, and will cease completely after the maturity of these loans. Approximately two-thirds of the PPP loans are set to mature by the end of 2022, while the remaining loans have a five-year maturity date. Interest income on loans for the year ended December 31, 2020 included $5.1 million in accretion of purchase accounting fair value adjustments on acquired loans, compared to $4.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The remaining net discount on these acquired loans was $3.3 million and $8.0 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Interest income on interest bearing deposits decreased $6.2 million as a result of a $90.5 million decrease in the average balance of interest earning deposits and a 171 basis point decrease in the yield on interest earning deposits to 0.51% for the year ended December 31, 2020 from 2.22% for the year ended December 31, 2019. Interest income on investment securities increased slightly by $134,000 as a result of a $10.8 million increase in the average balance of investment securities, partially offset by a 14 basis point decrease in the yield on investment securities to 2.56% for the year ended December 31, 2020 from 2.70% for the year ended December 31, 2019. Like yields on loans, yields on investments were significantly impacted by declines in short-term rates over the last year.
Interest expense. Interest expense increased by $167,000, or 1.9%, to $8.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 from $8.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase was primarily driven by the issuance of the $65.0 million of Notes during 2020, partially offset by a decrease in deposit interest expense. Total average interest bearing liabilities increased by $254.9 million, or 26.4%, to $1.2 billion for the year ended December 31, 2020, from $966.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. Interest expense on deposits decreased $1.2 million, or 14.8%, to $7.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2020 from $8.2 million in 2019, primarily due to decreases in the targeted federal funds rate, earlier in the year, and despite an increase in the average balance of deposits. The average rate paid on interest bearing deposits decreased to 0.59% for the year ended December 31, 2020, from 0.85% for the year ended December 31, 2019. The overall average cost of deposits for the year ended December 31, 2020 declined to 0.38%, compared to 0.85% for the prior period of 2019 due to an increase in noninterest bearing deposits and a reduction in market interest rates over the last year. The average balance of noninterest bearing deposits increased $171.3 million, or 34.4%, to $670.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $498.8 million during the comparable period during 2019. The market’s response to lowering deposit pricing to reflect the targeted federal funds rate decreases over the past year typically lags declines in the yield on interest earning assets. The average rate paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased 17 basis points to 0.73% during the year ended December 31, 2020 from 0.90% during the same period in 2019.
Interest expense on borrowings increased $1.3 million, or 243.1%, to $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, from $567,000 for the year ended December 31, 2019, as a result of the issuance of the Notes on August 10, 2020, which currently have a 5.25% interest rate. The average balance of borrowing outstanding increased $29.0 million to $38.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to $9.5 million during the comparable period in 2019. The increase in the average balance of borrowings outstanding was partially offset by a decline in the average cost of borrowing to 5.06% for the year ended December 31, 2020, from 5.98% for the year ended December 31, 2019.
Net interest income. Net interest income increased $10.5 million, or 15.5%, to $78.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $67.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. Net interest margin for the year ended December 31, 2020 decreased 38 basis point to 3.84% from 4.22% for 2019. During the year, the combination of low interest rate environment putting downward pressure on adjustable rate instruments and the impact of the low loan yields of the PPP loan portfolio, adversely affected net interest margin. Accretion of acquisition accounting discounts on loans and the recognition of revenue from purchase credit impaired loans in excess of discounts increased our net interest margin by 31 basis points and 42 basis points during years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The average yield on interest earning assets for the year ended December 31, 2020 was 4.27%, a 50 basis point decrease from 4.77% for the year ended December 31, 2019. The average cost of interest bearing liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2020 was 0.73%, down 17 basis points from 0.90% the year ended December 31, 2019, due primarily to lower market interest rates during most of the year.
Provision for loan losses. We recorded a provision for loan losses of $10.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to a provision for loan losses of $2.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, an increase of $8.1 million. The provision for loan losses includes a provision related to the migration of acquired loans out of the discounted acquired loan portfolio and gives consideration of probable loan losses due to changes in economic conditions driven by the impact of COVID-19 on the U.S. and global economies. In addition, the provision for loan losses also reflects risk rating downgrades on loans that are considered at risk due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our allowance for loan losses specific reserves increased to $521,000 at December 31, 2020, from $171,000 at December 31, 2019. We recorded no provision for loan losses for acquired loans related to the acquired non-purchased credit impaired loans as accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 310-20, for both the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. We recorded
$107,000 of additional provisions on the purchase credit impaired loans accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 310-30 during the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to none during 2019.
We had a net charge-offs of $220,000 for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to net recoveries of $36,000 for the year ended December 31, 2019. For the year ended December 31, 2020, charge-offs increased due primarily to $184,000 of charge-offs related to a single commercial and industrial loan. In accordance with acquisition accounting, loans acquired from acquisitions were recorded at their estimated fair value, which resulted in a net discount to the loans contractual amounts. Credit discounts are included in the determination of fair value and as a result, no allowance for loan losses is recorded for acquired loans at the acquisition date. However, the allowance for loan loss includes an estimate for credit deterioration of acquired loans that occurs after the date of acquisition, which is included in the loan loss provision in the period that the deterioration occurred. The discount recorded on the acquired loans is not reflected in the allowance for loan losses, or related allowance coverage ratios. The allowance for loan losses to total loans was 1.06% at December 31, 2020 compared to 0.51% at December 31, 2019.
Noninterest income. Noninterest income decreased $794,000, or 8.3%, to $8.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $9.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The decrease in noninterest income was primarily due to a $1.2 million decrease in gain on sale of loans as our SBA loans originated for sale and sold have declined because of the COVID-19 pandemic, partially offset by increases in loan servicing and other loan fees and increases in income from our investment in a Small Business Investment Company (“SBIC”) fund. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company sold $24.0 million of SBA loans (the guaranteed portion), which generated a gain on sale of $1.8 million, compared to the sale of $38.4 million of SBA loans and a gain of $3.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2019. Loan servicing and other loan fees increased $520,000, or 26.7%, to $2.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, primarily due to an increase in deposit accounts acquired in our recent acquisitions. SBIC income increased $206,000, or 30.8%, to $875,000 for the year ended December 31, 2020, compared to $669,000 for the year ended December 31, 2019, showing continued improved operating results throughout the year after sustaining COVID-19 related losses earlier in 2020.
The following table presents the key components of noninterest income for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Years ended December 31,
$ Change
% Change
(Dollars in thousands)
Gain on sale of loans
$
1,835
$
2,999
$
(1,164)
(38.8)
%
Service charges and other fees
2,548
2,678
(130)
(4.9)
Loan servicing and other loan fees
2,465
1,945
26.7
Gain on sale of premises
(147)
100.0
Income on investment in SBIC fund
30.8
Other income and fees
16.8
Total noninterest income
$
8,775
$
9,569
$
(794)
(8.3)
%
Noninterest expense. Noninterest expense increased $7.0 million, or 13.7%, to $58.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to $51.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019. The increase was primarily due to a $5.1 million, or 17.8%, increase in salary and benefits as a result of an increase in the number of full-time equivalent employees and severance benefits paid in connection with the GMB merger and to a lesser extent normal salary increase. Occupancy and equipment expense increased $1.9 million, or 37.7%, due to our recent acquisitions. Data processing expense was slightly down for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the same period in 2019 due to lower acquisition-related expenses compared to the same period in 2019, partially offset by higher transaction volumes from the increase in the number of deposit accounts. Other non-interest expense increased slightly for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to last year reflecting increased fees paid for employee recruiting and internal auditing and compliance related expenses, an increase in FDIC insurance premiums) as the application of $369,000 in FDIC small bank assessment credits reduced expenses in 2019 and the Bank utilized all of its remaining small bank assessment credits in 2020, and increased office expenses due to COVID-19 pandemic related expenses. These increases were partially offset by lower marketing and travel expenses due to a reduction in direct mail and marketing campaigns, sponsored events and other
meeting limitations imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Noninterest expense for the year ended December 31, 2020 included $3.0 million of GMB acquisition-related expenses, comprised of $266,000 in salaries and benefits, $2.0 million in data processing expenses, $369,000 in professional fees and $383,000 in all other expenses; compared to $6.6 million of UFC and TIG acquisition-related expenses for the year ended December 31, 2019, comprised of $835,000 in salaries and benefits, $4.4 million in data processing expenses, $938,000 in professional fees and $480,000 in all other expenses. Excluding all acquisition-related expenses, noninterest expenses increased $10.7 million, or 23.8%, from the same period of 2019, comprised of increases of $5.7 million in salary and benefits, $1.9 million in occupancy and equipment, $2.2 million in data processing, $610,000 in professional fees and $177,000 in other noninterest expenses.
The following table presents the key components of noninterest expense for the periods indicated:
Years ended December 31,
$ Change
% Change
(Dollars in thousands)
Salaries and related benefits
$
33,942
$
28,807
$
5,135
17.8
%
Occupancy and equipment
7,088
5,148
1,940
37.7
Data processing
8,221
8,364
(143)
(1.7)
Other
9,268
9,147
1.3
Total noninterest expense
$
58,519
$
51,466
$
7,053
13.7
%
Income taxes. Income tax expense decreased $1.9 million, or 29.3%, to $4.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 from $6.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, reflecting a decrease in pre-tax income for the period ended December 31, 2020 and a decrease in our effective tax rate. The Company’s effective tax rate was 24.7% for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to 26.8% for 2019. The decrease in the effective tax rate during the year ended December 31, 2020 was primarily due to higher proportion of favorable permanent adjustments relative to taxable income.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Planning for our normal business liquidity needs, both expected and unexpected, is done on a daily and short term basis through the cash management function. On a longer term basis, it is accomplished through the budget and strategic planning functions, with support from internal asset/liability management software model projections.
Management maintains a liquidity position that it believes will adequately provide funding for loan demand and deposit run off that may occur in the normal course of business. We rely on a number of different sources in order to meet our potential liquidity demands. Our primary sources of funds are deposits, escrow and custodial deposits, principal and interest payments on loans and proceeds from sale of loans. During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Bank sold $45.8 million, $24.0 million and $38.4 million in loans and loan participation interests, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Bank received $490.3 million, $284.4 million and $191.7 million in principal repayments, respectively.
While maturities and scheduled amortization of loans are predictable sources of funds, deposit flows and mortgage prepayments are greatly influenced by market interest rates, economic conditions, and competition.
Recently, the Bank’s liquidity has been positively impacted by increases in deposit levels. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, deposits increased by $146.8 million, and $137.2 million, respectively. As a result, our liquid assets in the form of cash and cash equivalents, interest bearing deposits in banks and investment securities available for sale increased to $135.1 million at December 31, 2021 from $5.6 million at December 31, 2020. Management believes that our security portfolio is of high quality and the securities would therefore be marketable. Securities purchased during the years ended December 31, 2021, and 2020 totaled $86.2 million, and $28.4 million, respectively, and securities repayments, maturities and sales in those periods were $15.9 million, and $10.9 million, respectively. Certificates of deposit scheduled to mature in one year or less at December 31, 2021, totaled $131.6 million. It is management’s policy to manage deposit rates that are competitive with other local financial institutions. Based on this management strategy, we believe that most of our maturing certificates of deposit will remain with us.
In addition to these primary sources of funds, management has several secondary sources available to meet potential funding requirements. As of December 31, 2021, the Bank had an available borrowing capacity of $483.1 million with the FHLB of San Francisco and $69.6 million with the FRB of San Francisco. Federal Funds lines with available commitments totaling $65.0 million with three correspondent banks. There were no amounts outstanding under these facilities at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. Subject to market conditions, we expect to utilize these borrowing facilities from time to time in the future to fund loan originations and deposit withdrawals, to satisfy other financial commitments, repay maturing debt and to take advantage of investment opportunities to the extent feasible.
Liquidity management is both a daily and long-term function of the Company’s management. Excess liquidity is generally invested in short-term investments, such as overnight deposits and federal funds. On a longer-term basis, a strategy is maintained of investing in various lending products and investment securities, including U.S. Government obligations and U.S. agency securities. We use our sources of funds primarily to meet our ongoing commitments, pay maturing deposits and fund withdrawals, and to fund loan commitments. Loan commitments and letters of credit were $104.1 million and $110.7 million, including $3.2 million and $13.0 million of undisbursed construction and development loan commitments, at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. For information regarding our commitments, see “Note 16 - Commitments and Contingencies” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Form 10 K.
Our cash flows are comprised of three primary classifications: cash flows from operating activities, investing activities, and financing activities. Net cash provided by operating activities was $10.4 million and $10.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2021, net cash used in investing activities, which consisted primarily of net change in loans receivable and purchases, sales and maturities of investment securities, was $60.4 million, compared to $73.7 million of cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2020. Net cash provided by financing activities, which is comprised primarily of net change in deposits, proceeds from the issuance of the Notes and other borrowings, was $130.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to $67.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2020.
We incur capital expenditures on an ongoing basis to expand and improve our product offerings, enhance and modernize our technology infrastructure, and to introduce new technology-based products to compete effectively in our markets. We evaluate capital expenditure projects based on a variety of factors, including expected strategic impacts (such as forecasted impact on revenue growth, productivity, expenses, service levels and customer retention) and our expected return on investment. The amount of capital investment is influenced by, among other things, current and projected demand for our services and products, cash flow generated by operating activities, cash required for other purposes and regulatory considerations. Based on current capital allocation objectives, there are no projects scheduled for capital investments in premises and equipment during the year ending December 31, 2022 that would materially impact liquidity. We also have purchase obligations, generally with remaining terms of less than three years and contracts with various vendors to provide services, including information processing, for periods generally ranging from one to five years, for which our financial obligations are dependent upon acceptable performance by the vendor.
In addition, at December 31, 2021, we had other future obligations and accrued expenses of $26.5 million. For the year ending December 31, 2022, we project that our commitments will include $12.7 million of operating lease payments. There are $3.7 million of scheduled interest payments due on Notes and junior subordinate debentures in 2022 (excluding any other borrowings that may be made after December 31, 2021). In addition, at December 31, 2021, there were other future obligations and accrued expenses of $12.9 million. For information regarding our operating leases, see “Note 7, Leases” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Form 10-K. We believe that our liquid assets combined with the available lines of credit provide adequate liquidity to meet our current financial obligations for at least the next 12 months.
BayCom Corp is a separate legal entity from the Bank and must provide for its own liquidity. At December 31, 2021, the Company, on an unconsolidated basis, had liquid assets of $15.9 million. In addition to its operating expenses, the Company is responsible for paying any dividends declared to its shareholders, funds paid out for Company stock repurchases, and payments on trust-preferred securities and the Notes held at the Company level. The Company has the ability to receive dividends or capital distributions from the Bank, although there are regulatory restrictions on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends.
As of December 31, 2021, the Company had not paid any cash dividends on its common stock. Subsequent to year end, however, the Company announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per share on the Company’s outstanding common stock, payable on April 15, 2022 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on March 11, 2022. The Company expects to continue to pay quarterly cash dividends on its common stock subject to the Board of Director’s discretion to modify or terminate this practice at any time and for any reason without prior notice. Assuming continued payment during 2022 at this rate of $0.05 per share, our average total dividend paid each quarter would be approximately $686,000 based on the number of our current outstanding shares (which assumes no increases or decreases in the number of shares, except in connection with the anticipated vesting of currently outstanding equity awards). The dividends, if any, we may pay may be limited as more fully discussed under “Business - Supervision and Regulation - BayCom Corp - Dividends” and “- Regulatory Capital Requirements” contained in “Part I. Item 1. Business” of this Form 10-K.
From time to time, our Board of Directors has authorized stock repurchase plans. In general, stock repurchase plans allow us to proactively manage our capital position and return excess capital to shareholders. Shares purchased under such plans may also provide us with shares of common stock necessary to satisfy obligations related to stock compensation awards. In December 2021, the Company’s board of directors approved its fifth stock repurchase program pursuant to which the Company may repurchase up to seven percent of the Company’s common stock, or approximately 747,000 shares, of which 742,532 shares remain available for repurchase at December 31, 2021. The repurchase program may be suspended, terminated or modified at any time for any reason, including market conditions, the cost of repurchasing shares, the availability of alternative investment opportunities, liquidity, and other factors deemed appropriate. The repurchase program does not obligate the Company to purchase any particular number of shares. See "Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities” contained in Item 5, Part II of this Form 10-K for additional information relating to stock.
Regulatory capital. The Bank, as a state-chartered, federally insured commercial bank, and member of the Federal Reserve is subject to the capital requirements established by the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve requires the Bank to maintain capital adequacy that generally parallels the FDIC requirements. The capital adequacy requirements are quantitative measures established by regulation that require the Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of capital. The FDIC requires the Bank to maintain minimum ratios of Total Capital, Tier 1 Capital, and Common Equity Tier 1 Capital to risk-weighted assets as well as Tier 1 Leverage Capital to average assets. Consistent with our goal to operate a sound and profitable organization, our policy is for the Bank to maintain “Well Capitalized” status under the Federal Reserve regulations. Based on capital levels at December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Bank was considered to be Well Capitalized.
The table below shows the capital ratios under the Basel III capital framework as of the dates indicated:
Minimum
Minimum
Regulatory
Regulatory
Requirement for
Actual
Requirement
“Well Capitalized”
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
(Dollars in thousands)
BayCom Corp
As of December 31, 2021
Tier 1 leverage ratio
$
207,678
9.39
%
$
88,461
4.00
%
$
110,577
5.00
%
Common equity tier 1 capital
207,678
12.51
74,701
4.50
107,901
6.50
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets
217,163
13.08
99,601
6.00
132,801
8.00
Total capital to risk-weighted assets
299,878
18.06
132,801
8.00
166,002
10.00
United Business Bank
As of December 31, 2021
Tier 1 leverage ratio
$
243,806
10.63
%
$
91,785
4.00
%
$
114,732
5.00
%
Common equity tier 1 capital
243,806
14.83
73,977
4.50
106,856
6.50
Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets
243,806
14.83
98,636
6.00
131,515
8.00
Total capital to risk-weighted assets
261,521
15.91
131,515
8.00
164,394
10.00
In addition to the minimum capital ratios, the Bank has to maintain a capital conservation buffer consisting of additional Common Equity Tier 1 capital greater than 2.5% above the required minimum levels in order to avoid limitations on paying dividends, engaging in share repurchases, and paying discretionary bonuses based on percentages of eligible retained income that could be utilized for such actions. At December 31, 2020, the Bank’s Common Equity Tier 1 capital exceeded the required capital conservation buffer.
For a bank holding company with less than $3.0 billion in assets, the capital guidelines apply on a bank only basis and the Federal Reserve expects the holding company’s subsidiary banks to be Well Capitalized under the prompt corrective action regulations. If the Company was subject to regulatory guidelines for bank holding companies with $3.0 billion or more in assets, at December 31, 2021, the Company would have exceeded all regulatory capital requirements.
For additional information see “Item 1. Business - Supervision and Regulation - United Business Bank - Capital Requirements” and Note 19, “Regulatory Matters” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”, within this report.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market and Interest Rate Risk
Market Risk. Market risk represents the risk of loss due to changes in market values of assets and liabilities. We incur market risk in the normal course of business through exposures to market interest rates, equity prices, and credit spreads. We have identified two primary sources of market risk: interest rate risk and price risk.
Interest Rate Risk. Interest rate risk is the risk to earnings and value arising from changes in market interest rates. Interest rate risk arises from timing differences in the repricing and maturities of interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities (reprice risk), changes in the expected maturities of assets and liabilities arising from embedded options, such as borrowers’ ability to prepay residential mortgage loans at any time and depositors’ ability to redeem certificates of deposit before maturity (option risk), changes in the shape of the yield curve where interest rates increase or decrease in a nonparallel fashion (yield curve risk), and changes in spread relationships between different yield curves, such as U.S. Treasuries and LIBOR (basis risk).
The Asset Liability Committee of our Board of Directors (“ALCO”), establishes broad policy limits with respect to interest rate risk. ALCO establishes specific operating guidelines within the parameters of the Board of Directors’ policies. In general, we seek to minimize the impact of changing interest rates on net interest income and the economic values of assets and liabilities. Our ALCO meets quarterly to monitor the level of interest rate risk sensitivity to ensure compliance with the Board of Directors’ approved risk limits.
Interest rate risk management is an active process that encompasses monitoring loan and deposit flows complemented by investment and funding activities. Effective management of interest rate risk begins with understanding the dynamic characteristics of assets and liabilities and determining the appropriate interest rate risk posture given business forecasts, management objectives, market expectations, and policy constraints.
An asset sensitive position refers to a balance sheet position in which an increase in short-term interest rates is expected to generate higher net interest income, as rates earned on our interest earning assets would reprice upward more quickly than rates paid on our interest bearing liabilities, thus expanding our net interest margin. Conversely, a liability sensitive position refers to a balance sheet position in which an increase in short-term interest rates is expected to generate lower net interest income, as rates paid on our interest bearing liabilities would reprice upward more quickly than rates earned on our interest earning assets, thus compressing our net interest margin.
Income simulation analysis. Interest rate risk measurement is calculated and reported to the ALCO at least quarterly. The information reported includes period-end results and identifies any policy limits exceeded, along with an assessment of the policy limit breach and the action plan and timeline for resolution, mitigation, or assumption of the risk.
Our primary approach to model interest rate risk is Net Interest Income at Risk (“NII at Risk”). Under NII at Risk, net interest income is modeled utilizing various assumptions for assets, liabilities, and derivatives.
We report NII at Risk to isolate the change in income related solely to interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities. The NII at Risk results reflect the analysis used quarterly by management. It models gradual parallel shifts in market interest rates based on the indicated interest rate environments implied by the forward yield curve over a two-year period. No rates in the model are allowed to go below zero. Given that the current targeted federal funds rate is between 0.00% and 0.25%, a decline by 200 and 300 basis points is not reported.
The following table sets forth the estimated changes in the Company’s annual net interest income that would result from the designated instantaneous parallel shift in interest rates noted, as of the dates indicated. Computations of prospective effects of hypothetical interest rate changes are based on numerous assumptions including relative levels of market interest rates, loan prepayments and deposit decay, and should not be relied upon as indicative of actual results.
Net Interest Income Sensitivity Immediate Changes in Rates (1)
+100
+200
+300
(Dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2021
Dollar change
$
(3,375)
$
7,451
$
15,939
$
24,226
Percent change
%
%
%
%
December 31, 2020
Dollar change
$
(1,546)
$
9,123
$
19,237
$
29,885
Percent change
(1)
%
%
%
%
(1) This data does not reflect any actions that we may undertake in response to changes in interest rates such as changes in rates paid on certain deposit accounts based on local competitive factors, which could reduce the actual impact on net interest income, if any.
As with any method of gauging interest rate risk, there are certain shortcomings inherent to the methodology noted above. The model assumes interest rate changes are instantaneous parallel shifts in the yield curve. In reality, rate changes are rarely instantaneous. The use of the simplifying assumption that short-term and long-term rates change by the same degree may also misstate historic rate patterns, which rarely show parallel yield curve shifts. Further, the model assumes that certain assets and liabilities of similar maturity or period to repricing will react in the same way to changes in rates. In reality, certain types of financial instruments may react in advance of changes in market rates, while the reaction of other types of financial instruments may lag behind the change in general market rates. Additionally, the methodology noted above does not reflect the full impact of annual and lifetime restrictions on changes in rates for certain assets, such as adjustable-rate loans. When interest rates change, actual loan prepayments and actual early withdrawals from certificates may deviate significantly from the assumptions used in the model. Finally, this methodology does not measure or reflect the impact that higher rates may have on adjustable-rate loan borrowers’ ability to service their debt. All of these factors are considered in monitoring the Company’s exposure to interest rate risk.

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm - Moss Adams LLP (PCAOB ID 659)
Consolidated Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets - December 31, 2021 and 2020
Consolidated Statements of Income - Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity - Years ended December 21, 2021, 2020 and 2019
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of
BayCom Corp
Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of BayCom Corp and Subsidiary (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2021, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2021, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures to respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ Moss Adams LLP
Sacramento, California
March 31, 2022
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2018.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 2021 and 2020
(In thousands, except for share data)
December 31,
December 31,
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks
$
21,178
$
29,683
Federal funds sold
358,509
269,646
Cash and cash equivalents
379,687
299,329
Interest bearing deposits in banks
3,585
7,718
Investment securities available-for-sale
174,435
115,590
Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") stock, at par
8,385
7,737
Federal Reserve Bank ("FRB") stock, at par
7,650
7,605
Loans held for sale
6,470
8,664
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses of $17,700 at December 31, 2021 and $17,500 December 31, 2020
1,647,190
1,625,812
Premises and equipment, net
14,370
15,139
Other real estate owned ("OREO")
Core deposit intangible, net
6,489
8,302
Cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance ("BOLI") policies, net
21,590
20,910
Right-of-use assets ("ROU"), net
12,127
12,049
Goodwill
38,838
38,838
Interest receivable and other assets
29,860
27,544
Total assets
$
2,350,697
$
2,195,666
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Noninterest and interest bearing deposits
$
1,985,239
$
1,838,397
Other borrowings
-
5,000
Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures, net
8,403
8,322
Subordinated debt, net
63,542
63,372
Salary continuation plan
4,393
4,009
Lease liabilities
12,657
12,328
Interest payable and other liabilities
13,856
11,647
Total liabilities
2,088,090
1,943,075
Commitments and contingencies (Note 16)
Shareholders' equity
Preferred stock, no par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding at both December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020
-
-
Common stock, no par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 10,680,386 and 11,295,397 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively
157,098
167,242
Additional paid in capital
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax
2,166
2,697
Retained earnings
103,056
82,365
Total shareholders’ equity
262,607
252,591
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
2,350,697
$
2,195,666
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019
(In thousands, except for share and per share data)
Interest income:
Loans, including fees
$
76,099
$
82,186
$
65,462
Investment securities and interest bearing deposits in banks
4,558
4,213
10,292
FHLB dividends
FRB dividends
Total interest and dividend income
81,609
87,192
76,544
Interest expense:
Deposits
4,875
6,954
8,165
Subordinated debt
3,582
1,405
-
Other borrowings
Total interest expense
8,802
8,899
8,732
Net interest income
72,807
78,293
67,812
Provision for loan losses
10,320
2,224
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
72,341
67,973
65,588
Noninterest income:
Gain on sale of loans
4,795
1,835
2,999
Service charges and other fees
2,403
2,548
2,678
Loan servicing and other loan fees
1,833
2,465
1,945
Gain on sale of premises
Income on investment in Small Business Investment Company (“SBIC”) fund
1,274
Gain on sale of OREO
Other income and fees
Total noninterest income
11,268
8,775
9,569
Noninterest expense:
Salaries and employee benefits
33,761
33,942
28,807
Occupancy and equipment
7,384
7,088
5,148
Data processing
5,565
8,221
8,364
Other expense
8,419
9,268
9,147
Total noninterest expense
55,129
58,519
51,466
Income before provision for income taxes
28,480
18,229
23,691
Provision for income taxes
7,789
4,503
6,373
Net income
$
20,691
$
13,726
$
17,318
Earnings per common share:
Basic earnings per common share
$
1.90
$
1.15
$
1.47
Weighted average shares outstanding
10,882,344
11,965,245
11,759,334
Diluted earnings per common share
$
1.90
$
1.15
$
1.47
Weighted average shares outstanding
10,882,344
11,965,245
11,759,334
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019
(In thousands)
Net income
$
20,691
$
13,726
$
17,318
Other comprehensive income:
Change in unrealized (loss) gain on available-for-sale securities
(740)
2,024
1,896
Deferred tax benefit (expense)
(578)
(542)
Other comprehensive (loss)/income, net of tax
(531)
1,446
1,354
Total comprehensive income
$
20,160
$
15,172
$
18,672
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019
(In thousands, except for share data)
Accumulated
Common
Additional
Other
Total
Number of
Stock
Paid in
Comprehensive
Retained
Shareholders’
Shares
Amount
Capital
Income/(Loss)
Earnings
Equity
Balance, January 1, 2019
10,869,275
$
149,248
$
$
(103)
$
51,321
$
200,753
Net income
17,318
17,318
Other comprehensive income, net
1,354
1,354
Restricted stock granted
77,335
-
Stock based compensation
1,154
1,154
Issuance of shares
1,991,809
44,598
44,598
Repurchase of shares
(493,787)
(10,957)
(10,957)
Balance, December 31, 2019
12,444,632
$
184,043
$
$
1,251
$
68,639
$
254,220
Net income
13,726
13,726
Other comprehensive income, net
1,446
1,446
Restricted stock granted
129,066
-
Restricted stock forfeited
(1,432)
-
Stock based compensation
1,456
1,456
Repurchase of shares
(1,276,869)
(18,257)
(18,257)
Balance, December 31, 2020
11,295,397
167,242
2,697
82,365
252,591
Net income
20,691
20,691
Other comprehensive loss, net
(531)
(531)
Restricted stock granted
36,415
-
Restricted stock forfeited
(2,692)
-
Stock based compensation
1,407
1,407
Repurchase of shares
(648,734)
(11,551)
(11,551)
Balance, December 31, 2021
10,680,386
$
157,098
$
$
2,166
$
103,056
$
262,607
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019
(In thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
$
20,691
$
13,726
$
17,318
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provision for loan losses
10,320
2,224
Increase (decrease) in deferred tax assets
(2,538)
1,375
Accretion on acquired loans
(1,262)
(5,100)
(4,313)
Gain on sale of loans
(4,795)
(1,835)
(2,999)
Gain on sale of securities
(41)
-
-
Proceeds from sale of loans
45,846
23,953
38,410
Loans originated for sale
(54,577)
(32,635)
(52,462)
Gain on sale of premises, net
(12)
(40)
(187)
Gain on sale of OREO
(15)
(86)
(112)
Accretion on junior subordinated debentures
Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance policies
(680)
(666)
(642)
Amortization/accretion of premiums/discounts on investment securities, net
Depreciation and amortization
2,043
1,864
1,207
Core deposit intangible amortization
1,813
1,832
1,624
Stock based compensation expense
1,407
1,456
1,154
(Decrease) increase in deferred loan origination fees, net
(1,944)
3,396
Increase in interest receivable and other assets
(2,553)
(1,155)
(12,041)
Increase in salary continuation plan, net
Increase (decrease) in interest payable and other liabilities
2,791
(3,615)
15,407
Net cash provided by operating activities
10,429
9,997
6,956
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from maturities of interest bearing deposits in banks
4,133
10,061
2,241
Purchase of investment securities
(91,024)
(21,195)
(16,858)
Proceeds from the maturities, repayments and calls of investment securities
27,955
31,215
12,698
Proceeds from the sales of investment securities
3,026
-
16,800
Purchase of Federal Home Loan Bank stock
(648)
(398)
(236)
Purchase of Federal Reserve Bank stock
(45)
(874)
(1,858)
Increase in loans, net
(2,918)
(82,215)
(48,454)
Proceeds from sale of premises
4,961
Proceeds from sale of OREO
Purchase of equipment and leasehold improvements, net
(1,309)
(3,215)
(1,399)
Net cash paid out for acquisitions
-
(8,432)
32,575
Net cash used in investing activities
(60,362)
(73,657)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - (continued)
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019
(In thousands)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Increase in noninterest and interest bearing deposits in banks, net
31,517
111,241
13,435
Increase (decrease) in time deposits, net
115,325
(92,174)
(38,560)
Repayment of junior subordinated debentures
-
(1,575)
-
Proceeds from issuance of subordinated debt, net
-
63,372
-
Advances from Federal Home Loan Bank
-
110,000
-
Repayment of Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings
(5,000)
(105,000)
-
Increase in other borrowings
-
6,000
-
Repayment of other borrowings
-
(6,000)
-
Repurchase of common stock
(11,551)
(18,257)
(10,957)
Net cash provided by financing activities
130,291
67,607
(36,082)
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
80,358
3,947
(28,199)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
299,329
295,382
323,581
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
379,687
$
299,329
$
295,382
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest expense
$
9,013
$
9,214
$
7,454
Income taxes paid, net
7,100
8,071
5,054
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Change in unrealized (loss) gain on available-for-sale securities, net of tax
$
(531)
$
1,446
$
1,354
Transfer of loans to other real estate owned
-
-
Recognition of ROU assets
17,181
Recognition of lease liability
17,201
Acquisition:
Assets acquired, net of cash received
$
-
$
109,429
$
463,091
Liabilities assumed
-
120,409
471,940
Cash consideration
-
13,886
57,998
Common stock issued
-
-
44,598
Goodwill
-
3,372
20,872
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
1. ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
BayCom Corp (the “Company”), a California corporation, is the bank holding company for United Business Bank (the “Bank”), a California state-chartered bank. The Company is primarily engaged in the business of planning, directing and coordinating the business activities of the Bank, its wholly owned operating subsidiary.
The Bank, formerly known as Bay Commercial Bank, opened for business on July 20, 2004. The Bank provides a broad range of financial services primarily to local small and mid-sized businesses, service professionals and individuals through its 33 full-service banking branches. The main office is located in Walnut Creek, California and branch offices are located in Oakland, Castro Valley, Mountain View, Stockton, Pleasanton, Livermore, San Jose, Long Beach, Sacramento, San Francisco, Buena Park, Los Angeles, and Garden Grove, Waterloo, California, and Seattle, Washington (2), New Mexico (5) and Colorado (11). The Company is subject to regulation by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (“Federal Reserve”). The Bank is subject to regulation by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (“DFPI”), which until September 29, 2020 was known as the California Department of Business Oversight, and as a state-member bank, by the Federal Reserve.
The Company has two subsidiary grantor trusts, First ULB Statutory Trust I (“FULB Trust”) and Bethlehem Capital Trust (“BFC Trust”) (collectively, the “Trusts”) which were established in connection with the issuance of trust preferred securities (see Note 13). In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), the accounts and transactions of the Trusts are not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The Trusts were acquired through acquisitions.
The accounting and reporting policies of the Company conform to U.S. GAAP and prevailing practice within the banking industry. As an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, the Company has elected to use the extended transition period to delay adoption of new or reissued accounting pronouncements applicable to public companies until such pronouncements are made applicable to private companies. Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements may not be comparable to the financial statements of public companies that comply with such new or revised accounting standards. As of December 31, 2021, there is no significant difference in the comparability of the consolidated financial statements as a result of this extended transition period.
The following is a summary of the significant accounting and reporting policies used in preparing the consolidated financial statements.
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, the Bank. All material intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation. For financial reporting purposes, the Trusts are accounted for under the equity method and are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. The junior subordinated debentures issued and guaranteed by the Company and held by the Trusts are reflected as liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant accounting estimates reflected in the consolidated financial statements include the allowance for loan losses, the valuation for deferred tax assets, the valuation of financial assets and liabilities, and the determination, recognition and measurement of impaired loans. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Business Combinations
On February 4, 2020, the Company acquired all of the assets and assumed all of the liabilities of Grand Mountain Bancshares, Inc. (“GMB”) and its wholly owned subsidiary Grand Mountain Bank, under a Merger and Plan of Reorganization dated November 4, 2019.
On October 21, 2019, the Company acquired all of the assets and assumed all of the liabilities of TIG Bancorp (“TIG”) and its subsidiary, First State Bank of Colorado, under a Merger and Plan of Reorganization dated June 28, 2019.
On May 24, 2019, the Company acquired all of the assets and assumed all of the liabilities of Uniti Financial Corporation (“UFC”) and its subsidiary, Uniti Bank, under a Merger and Plan of Reorganization dated December 7, 2018.
The acquired assets and assumed liabilities, both tangible and intangible for all acquisitions were measured at estimated fair values, as required by the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 805, Business Combinations. Management made significant estimates and exercised significant judgment in accounting for the acquisition. For additional information, see “Note 2-Acquisitions.”
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents are defined as short-term, highly liquid investments both readily convertible into known amounts of cash and so near maturity that there is insignificant risk of change in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase qualify as cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks and federal funds sold. Generally, banks are required to maintain noninterest bearing cash reserves equal to a percentage of certain deposits. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, $177.6 million and $92.7 million in reserve balances were required, respectively.
As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company had cash deposits at other financial institutions in excess of FDIC insured limits. The Company places these deposits with major financial institutions and management monitors the financial condition of these institutions and believes the risk of loss to be minimal. At December 31, 2021, the Company did not hold interest bearing money market accounts in these financial institutions. At December 31, 2020, the Company held interest bearing money market accounts in these financial institutions totaling $20.0 million, with a yield of 0.25%.
Interest Bearing Deposits in Banks
The Company invests in certificates of time deposits with other banks. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the certificates of time deposits with other banks totaled $3.6 million and $7.7 million, with a yield of 2.45% and 2.54%, respectively. These deposits do not exceed FDIC limits and mature between one and six years.
Investment Securities Available-for-Sale
Available-for-sale securities include bonds, notes, mortgage-backed securities, and debentures not classified as held-to-maturity securities. These securities are carried at estimated fair value with unrealized holding gains and losses, net of tax impact, if any, reported as a net amount in a separate component of shareholders’ equity, accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), until realized. Gains and losses on the sale of available-for-sale securities are determined using the specific identification method. The amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts are recognized as adjustments to interest income over the period to maturity.
Investments with fair values that are less than amortized costs are considered impaired. Impairment may result from either a decline in the financial condition of the issuing entity or in the case of fixed interest rate investments, from rising interest rates. At each financial statement date management assesses each investment to determine if impaired
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
investments are temporarily impaired or if the impairment is other than temporary. This assessment includes a determination of whether the Company intends to sell the security, or it is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period credit losses. For debt securities that are considered other than temporarily impaired and that the Company does not intend to sell and will not be required to sell prior to recovery of the amortized cost basis, the amount of impairment is separated into the amount that is credit related (credit loss component) and the amount due to all other factors. The credit loss component is recognized in earnings and is calculated as the difference between the security’s amortized costs basis and the present value of its expected future cash flows.
The remaining difference between the security’s fair value and the present value of the future expected cash flow is deemed to be due to factors that are not credit related and is recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock
As a member of the FHLB, the Bank is required to own common stock in the FHLB based on the level of borrowings and outstanding FHLB advances. FHLB stock is carried at cost and is periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Cash dividends from the FHLB are reported as interest income.
Federal Reserve Bank Stock
As a member of the FRB, the Bank is required to own stock in the FRB of San Francisco based on a specified ratio relative to our capital. FRB stock is recorded at cost and redeemable at par value. FRB stock is periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Cash dividends are reported as interest income.
Loans
Loans are stated at the principal amount outstanding, net of the allowance for loan losses, net deferred fees, and unearned discounts, if any. The Company holds loans receivable primarily for investment purposes. The Company purchases and sells interests in certain loans referred to as participations. The participations are sold without recourse.
The Company acquires loans in business combinations that are recorded at estimated fair value as of their purchase date. The purchaser cannot carryover the related allowance for loan losses as probable credit losses are considered in the estimation of fair value. Purchased loans are accounted for under ASC 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities with Deteriorated Credit Quality, or ASC 310-20, Non-refundable Fees and other Costs. Certain acquired loans exhibited credit quality deterioration since origination and are therefore being accounted for under ASC 310-30. The acquired loans that did not exhibit credit quality deterioration are accounted for under ASC 310-20.
Interest on loans is calculated and accrued daily using the simple interest method based on the daily amount of principal outstanding. Generally, loans with temporarily impaired values and loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties are placed on non-accrual even though the borrowers continue to repay the loans as scheduled.
When the ability to fully collect non-accrual loan principal is in doubt, cash payments received are applied first to principal until such time as full collection of the remaining recorded balance is expected. Loans are returned to accrual basis when principal and interest payments are being paid currently and full payment of principal and interest is probable.
The Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”), established by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act of 2020 ("CARES Act") and implemented by the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”), provided the Bank with delegated authority to process and originate PPP loans. When certain criteria are met, PPP loans are subject to forgiveness and the Bank will receive payment of the forgiveness amount from the SBA. PPP loans have a contractual term of two or five years and provide borrowers with an automatic payment deferral of principal and interest. PPP
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
processing fees are deferred and recognized into interest income on straight line basis over the contractual life of the loans, but may be accelerated upon forgiveness or prepayment.
Loans Purchased
From time to time, the Bank may purchase whole-loans including multi-family residential, single-family residential and commercial and industrial loans that were not acquired in bank acquisitions. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, purchased loans outstanding of collection totaled $145.4 million and $188.3 million respectively. Purchase premiums remaining on the purchased loans totaled $533,000 and $1.8 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The purchased loans consist of adjustable rate multi-family residential mortgages on properties within the Company’s markets and adjustable rate commercial and industrial loans both inside and outside the Company’s markets.
The purchase decision is usually based on several factors, including current loan origination volumes, market interest rates, excess liquidity, our continuous efforts to meet the credit needs of certain borrowers under the Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”), as well as other asset/liability management strategies. All of the purchased loans are selected using the Bank’s normal underwriting criteria at the time of purchase, or in some cases guaranteed by third parties. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, none of the purchased loans were past due 30 days or more. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company has allocated approximately $1.5 million and $2.1 million, respectively, of the allowance for loan losses to the purchased loans. These loans are reserved for under the Company’s general allowance component. The decrease in the reserves is consistent with the decrease in balance of purchased loans outstanding of collection at December 31, 2021.
Purchased Credit Impaired Loans
The Company purchases individual loans and groups of loans, some of which show evidence of credit deterioration since origination. The purchased credit impaired (“PCI”) loans are recorded at the amount paid, since there is no carryover of the seller’s allowance for loan losses.
PCI loans are accounted for individually or aggregated into pools of loans on common risk characteristics. The Company estimates the amount and timing of expected cash flows for the loan or pool. The expected cash flows in excess of the amount paid are recorded as interest income over the life of the loan (“accretable yield”). The excess of the loan’s or pool’s contractual principal and interest over the expected cash flows is not recorded (“nonaccretable differences”). Over the life of the loan or pool, expected cash flows continue to be estimated. If the present value of the expected cash flows is less than the amount, a loss is recorded as a provision for loan losses. If the present value of expected cash flows is greater than the carrying amount, it is recognized as part of the future interest income.
Loan Fees and Costs
Loan origination fees, commitment fees, direct loan origination costs and purchase premiums and discounts on loans are deferred and recognized as an adjustment of yield, to be amortized to interest income over the contractual term of the loan. Other loan fees and charges which represent income from delinquent payment charges, and miscellaneous loan or letter of credit services, are recognized as noninterest income when collected.
Salaries, employee benefits and other expenses totaling $2.0 million and $1.0 million were deferred as loan origination costs for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Allowance for Loan Losses
The allowance for loan losses is evaluated on a regular basis by management. Periodically, the Company charges current earnings with provisions for estimated probable losses of loans receivable. The provision or adjustment takes into
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
consideration the adequacy of the total allowance for loan losses giving due consideration to specifically identified problem loans, the financial condition of the borrower, fair value of the underlying collateral, recourse provisions, prevailing economic conditions, and other factors. Additional consideration is given to the Company’s historical loan loss experience relative to the Company’s loan portfolio concentrations related to industry, collateral and geography. The Company considers this concentration of credit risk when assessing and assigning qualitative factors in the allowance for loan losses. Portfolio segments identified by the Company include commercial and industrial, construction and land, commercial real estate including multifamily, residential real estate and consumer. This evaluation is inherently subjective and requires estimates that are susceptible to significant change as additional or new information becomes available. Relevant risk characteristics for the Company’s loan portfolio segments include vintage of the loan, debt service coverage, loan-to-value ratios and other financial performance ratios. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, management believes the allowance for loan losses adequately reflects the credit risk in the loan portfolio.
Generally, the allowance for loan losses consists of various components including a component for specifically identified weaknesses as a result of individual loans being impaired, a component for general non-specific weakness related to historical experience, economic conditions and other factors that indicate probable loss in the loan portfolio. Loans determined to be impaired are individually evaluated by management for specific risk of loss.
The Company evaluates and assigns a risk grade to each loan based on certain criteria to assess the credit quality of each loan. The assignment of a risk rating is done for each individual loan. Loans are graded from inception and on a continuing basis until the debt is repaid. Any adverse or beneficial trends will trigger a review of the loan risk rating. Each loan is assigned a risk grade based on its characteristics. Loans with low to average credit risk are assigned a lower risk grade than those with higher credit risk as determined by the individual loan characteristics.
The Company’s Pass loans includes loans with acceptable business or individual credit risk where the borrower’s operations, cash flow or financial condition provides evidence of low to average levels of risk.
Loans that are assigned higher risk grades are loans that exhibit the following characteristics:
Special Mention loans have potential weaknesses that deserve close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in a deterioration of the repayment prospects for the asset or in the Company’s credit position at some future date. Special Mention loans are not adversely classified and do not expose the Company to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification. A Special Mention rating should be a temporary rating, pending the occurrence of an event that would cause the risk rating to either improve or to be downgraded.
Loans in this category would be characterized by any of the following situations:
● Credit that is currently protected but is potentially a weak asset;
● Credit that is difficult to manage because of an inadequate loan agreement, the condition of and/or control over collateral, failure to obtain proper documentation, or any other deviation from product lending practices; and
● Adverse financial trends.
Substandard loans are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged. Loans classified Substandard must have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. Loans are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. The potential loss does not have to be recognizable in an individual credit for that credit to be risk rated Substandard. A loan can be fully and adequately secured and still be considered Substandard.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Some characteristics of Substandard loans are:
● Inability to service debt from ordinary and recurring cash flow;
● Chronic delinquency;
● Reliance upon alternative sources of repayment;
● Term loans that are granted on liberal terms because the borrower cannot service normal payments for that type of debt;
● Repayment dependent upon the liquidation of collateral;
● Inability to perform as agreed, but adequately protected by collateral;
● Necessity to renegotiate payments to a non-standard level to ensure performance; and
● The borrower is bankrupt, or for any other reason, future repayment is dependent on court action.
Doubtful loans have all the weaknesses inherent in loans classified as Substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and value, highly questionable and improbable. Doubtful loans have a high probability of loss, yet certain important and reasonably specific pending factors may work toward the strengthening of the credit.
Losses are recognized as charges to the allowance when the loan or portion of the loan is considered uncollectible or at the time of foreclosure. Recoveries on loans previously charged off are credited to the allowance for loan losses.
A loan may be considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis for loans by either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s obtainable market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.
The Company did not designate loans with payment deferrals granted due to the novel coronavirus of 2019 (“COVID-19’) pandemic as delinquent in accordance with provisions of CARES Act” and the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (the “CAA, 2021”) and related regulatory guidance. Additional analysis was completed on the allowance for loan losses during 2021 based on the significance of loan modifications in accordance with the CARES Act and regulatory guidance and loan risk rating downgrades as well as additional risk factors related to COVID-19. Loan modifications in accordance with the CARES Act and related regulatory guidance are still subject to an evaluation in regard to determining whether or not a loan is deemed to be impaired.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Troubled Debt Restructuring
In situations where, for economic or legal reasons related to a borrower’s financial difficulties, the Company grants a concession to the borrower that it would not otherwise consider, the related loan is classified as a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”). The Company measures any loss on the TDR in accordance with the guidance concerning impaired loans set forth above. Additionally, loans modified in troubled debt restructurings are generally placed on non-accrual status at the time of restructuring and included in impaired loans. These loans are returned to accrual status after the borrower demonstrates performance with the modified terms for a sustained period of time (generally six months) and has the capacity to continue to perform in accordance with the modified terms of the restructured debt. The Company elected to apply the temporary relief under the CARES Act and related bank regulatory guidance to certain eligible short-term modifications and past due loans. Qualifying loan modifications were not classified as TDR for accounting or disclosure purposes until 180 days following a loan's initial modification under the CARES Act and related bank regulatory guidance at which time those loans were classified as a TDR.
Other Real Estate Owned
Other real estate owned (“OREO”) acquired through, or in lieu of foreclosure is held-for-sale and are initially recorded at fair value, less selling expenses. At transfer, any write-downs to fair value are charged to the allowance for loan losses. Costs to hold OREO are expensed when incurred. After transfer, the Company obtains updated appraisals or market valuation analyses on all OREO, and is able to update information collected at time of transfer. If the periodic valuation indicates a decline in the fair value below recorded carrying value, an additional write-down or valuation allowance for OREO losses is established as a charge to earnings. Fair value is based on current market conditions, appraisals, and estimated sales values of similar properties. Operating expenses of such properties, net of related income, are included in other expenses.
Premises and Equipment
Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation or amortization. Depreciation is determined using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets.
Estimated useful life (years)
Buildings
Up to 27.5 years
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment
3 to 7 years
Leasehold improvements
Shorter of useful lives or the terms of the leases
When assets are sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation or amortization are removed from the accounts, and any resulting gain or loss is recognized in noninterest income. The cost of maintenance and repairs is charged to expense as incurred. Annually at the end of each year, the Company evaluates premises and equipment for impairment as events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be fully recoverable.
Goodwill, Core Deposit Intangible and Long-Lived Assets
Goodwill is determined as the excess of the fair value of the consideration transferred, plus the fair value of any noncontrolling interests in the acquiree, over the fair value of the net assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date. Goodwill and other intangible assets are assessed for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The Company performed its annual impairment analysis and determined no impairment existed as of December 31, 2021. Intangible assets with definite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values. Core deposit intangible represents the estimated future benefit of deposits related to an acquisition and is booked separately from the related deposits and amortized over an estimated useful life of seven to ten years.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Bank Owned Life Insurance
The Bank owns life insurance policies (“BOLI”) on certain key current officers. BOLI is recorded on the consolidated balance sheets at the amount that can be realized based on cash surrender value.
Transfers of Financial Assets
Transfers of an entire financial asset, a group of financial assets, or a participating interest in an entire financial asset are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been relinquished. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (2) 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 (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.
The Company may sell certain portions of government guaranteed loans in the secondary market. These sales are recorded by the Company when control is surrendered and any warranty period or recourse provision expires.
Servicing Assets and Liabilities
All servicing assets and liabilities are initially measured at fair value. The Company amortizes servicing rights in proportion to and over the period of the estimated net servicing income or loss assuming prepayments and assesses the rights for impairment.
Loans serviced for others totaled $253.7 million and $260.3 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Servicing assets, included in interest receivable and other assets in the consolidated statements of financial condition, totaled $1.9 million and $1.8 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. There were no servicing liabilities, included in interest payable and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets, as of December 31, 2021 and $26,000 as of December 31, 2020.
In connection with the sale of the Company’s SBA loans, the Company recognizes servicing assets when servicing rights are retained. The Company initially recognizes and measures at fair value servicing rights obtained by SBA loan sales. The Company subsequently measures these servicing assets by using the amortization method, which amortizes servicing assets in proportion to, and over the period of, estimated net servicing income. The amortization of the servicing assets is analyzed periodically and is adjusted to reflect changes in prepayment rates and other estimates. The servicing asset and the related amortization are netted against other non-operating income in the consolidated statement of income. Gain or loss on sale of loans is included in noninterest income.
Loans Held for Sale
Periodically, the Company sells loans and retains the servicing rights. The gain or loss on sale of loans depends in part on the previous carrying amount of the financial assets involved in the transfer, allocated between the assets sold and the retained interests based on their relative fair value at the date of transfer.
The portions of the SBA loans that are guaranteed by the SBA are classified by management as loans held for sale since the Company intends to sell these loans. Loans held for sale are recorded at their lower aggregate cost or estimated fair value. During 2021, the Company sold $45.8 million of SBA loans in the secondary market, all of which settled by end of year 2021. During 2020, the Company sold $24.0 million of SBA loans in the secondary market, all of which settled by end of year 2020.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
The fair value of SBA loans held for sale is based primarily on prices that secondary markets are currently offering for loans with similar characteristics. Net unrealized losses, if any, are recognized through a valuation allowance through a charge to income. The carrying value of SBA loans held for sale is net of premiums as well as deferred originations fees and costs. Premiums and net origination fees and costs are deferred and included in the basis of the loans in calculating gains or losses upon sale. SBA loans are generally secured by the borrowing entities’ assets such accounts receivable, property and equipment and other business assets. The Company generally recognizes gains and losses on these loan sales based on the differences between the sales proceeds received and the allocated carrying value of the loans sold (which can include deferred premiums and net origination fees and costs). The non-guaranteed portion of the SBA loans is not typically sold by the Company and is classified as held for investment.
Reserve for Unfunded Commitments
The reserve for unfunded commitments is established through a provision for losses-unfunded commitments, the changes of which are recorded in noninterest expense. The reserve for unfunded commitments is an amount that Management believes will be adequate to absorb probable losses inherent in existing commitments, including unused portions of revolving lines of credit and other loans, standby letters of credit, and unused deposit account overdraft privileges. The reserve for unfunded commitments is based on evaluations of the collectability, and prior loss experience of unfunded commitments. The evaluations take into consideration such factors as changes in the nature and size of the loan portfolio, overall loan portfolio quality, loan concentrations, specific problem loans and related unfunded commitments, and current economic conditions that may affect the borrower’s or depositor’s ability to pay.
Income Taxes
The Company and the Bank file a United States consolidated federal income tax return and state income tax returns in California, Colorado and New Mexico. Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Under such method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences of differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis (temporary differences). Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rate is recognized in the period of change. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in tax expense.
A valuation allowance is established as a reduction to deferred tax assets to the extent that it is more than likely than not that the benefits associated with the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The determination, recognition, and measurement of deferred tax assets and the requirement for a related valuation allowance is based on estimated future taxable income.
Revenue Recognition
The Company records revenue from contracts with clients in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Clients” (“Topic 606”). Under Topic 606, the Company must identify the contract with a client, identify the performance obligations in the contract, determine the transaction price, allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and recognize revenue when (or as) the Company satisfies a performance obligation.
Most of our revenue-generating transactions are not subject to Topic 606, including revenue generated from financial instruments, such as our loans and investment securities. In addition, certain noninterest income streams such as fees associated with mortgage servicing rights, financial guarantees, derivatives, and certain credit card fees are also not in scope of the new guidance. The Company’s noninterest revenue streams are largely based on transactional activity, or standard month-end revenue accruals such as asset management fees based on month-end market values. Consideration is
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
often received immediately or shortly after the Company satisfies its performance obligation and revenue is recognized. The Company does not typically enter into long-term revenue contracts with clients, and therefore, does not experience significant contract balances. As of December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company did not have any significant contract balances. The following are descriptions of revenues within the scope of ASC 606.
Deposit fees and service charges
The Company earns fees from its deposit clients for account maintenance, transaction-based and overdraft services. Account maintenance fees consist primarily of account fees and analyzed account fees charged on deposit accounts on a monthly basis. The performance obligation is satisfied and the fees are recognized on a monthly basis as the service period is completed. Transaction-based fees on deposit accounts are charged to deposit clients for specific services provided to the client, such as non-sufficient funds fees, overdraft fees, and wire fees. The performance obligation is completed as the transaction occurs and the fees are recognized at the time each specific service is provided to the client.
Debit and ATM interchange fee income and expenses
Debit and ATM interchange income represent fees earned when a debit card issued by the Company is used. The Company earns interchange fees from debit cardholder transactions 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. The performance obligation is satisfied and the fees are earned when the cost of the transaction is charged to the cardholders’ debit card. Certain expenses directly associated with the credit and debit card are recorded on a net basis with the interchange income.
Merchant fee income
Merchant fee income represents fees earned by the Company for card payment services provided to its merchant clients. The Company outsources these services to a third party to provide card payment services to these merchants. The third-party provider passes the payments made by the merchants through to the Company. The Company, in turn, pays the third-party provider for the services it provides to the merchants. These payments to the third party provider are recorded as expenses as a net reduction against fee income. In addition, a portion of the payment received represents interchange fees which are passed through to the card issuing bank. Income is primarily earned based on the dollar volume and number of transactions processed. The performance obligation is satisfied and the related fee is earned when each payment is accepted by the processing network.
Gain/loss on other real estate owned, net
The Company records a gain or loss from the sale of other real estate owned when control of the property transfers to the buyer, which generally occurs at the time of an executed deed of trust. When the Company finances the sale of other real estate owned to the buyer, the Company assesses whether the buyer is committed to perform their obligations under the contract and whether collectability of the transaction price is probable. Once these criteria are met, the 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 sale, the Company adjusts the transaction price and related gain or loss on sale if a significant financing component is present.
Stock Based Compensation
Restricted Equity Grants
The Company granted restricted stock to directors and employees in 2021 and 2020. The grant-date fair value of the award is amortized on the straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting period, as compensation expense in salaries and benefits for employees and other noninterest expense for directors.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Earnings per Share
Earnings per common share (“EPS”) is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Basic EPS excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted average of common shares outstanding. Non-vested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are considered participating securities and are included in the computation of basic earnings per share. All of the Company’s non-vested restricted stock awards qualify as participating securities.
Repurchase of Common Stock
On December 15, 2021, the Company announced that its Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program for the repurchase of up to 747,000 shares of its common stock, or approximately 7% of its outstanding shares, over a one-year period through open market purchases, privately-negotiated transactions, or otherwise in compliance with Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This was the fifth stock repurchase plan since October 2019. On February 22, 2021, the Company announced that its Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program for the repurchase of up to 560,000 shares of its common stock, or approximately 5% of its outstanding shares, over a one-year period through open market purchases, privately-negotiated transactions, or otherwise in compliance with Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This was the fourth stock repurchase plan since October 2019. During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company, utilizing the two above referenced plans, repurchased a total of 648,734 shares of the Company’s common stock. As of December 31, 2021, 742,532 shares of Company common stock remained available for future purchases under the December 2021 stock repurchase plan.
The first three stock repurchase plans, announced by the Company in October 2019, March 2020 and October 2020 authorized the repurchase of a total of 1,854,922 shares. During the year end December 31, 2020, the Company repurchased a total of 1,276,869 shares under these plans.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) includes disclosure of other comprehensive income or loss that historically has not been recognized in the calculation of net income or loss. Unrealized gains and losses on the Company’s available-for-sale investment securities are included in other comprehensive income or loss. Total comprehensive income or loss and the components of accumulated other comprehensive income are presented as a separate statement of comprehensive income.
Loss Contingencies and Legal Claims
In the normal course of business, the Company may be subject to claims and lawsuits. It is the opinion of management that the disposition or ultimate resolution of such claims and lawsuits, if any, will not have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Company.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements Adopted
In December 2019, the Financial Accounting Standard Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. ASU 2019-12 provides that state franchise or similar taxes that are based, at least in part on an entity’s income, be included in an entity’s income tax recognized as income-based taxes. The ASU further clarifies that the effect of any change in tax laws or rates used in the computation of the annual effective tax rate are required to be reflected in the first interim period that includes the enactment date of the legislation. Technical changes to eliminate exceptions to Topic 740 related to intra-period tax allocations for entities with losses from continuing operations, deferred tax liabilities related to change in ownership of foreign entities, and interim-period tax allocations for businesses with losses where the losses are expected to be
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
realized. The Company adopted ASU 2019-12 on December 15, 2020. The adoption of ASU 2019-12 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In October 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-08, “Receivables - Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs” (ASU 2020-08”). ASU 2020-08 clarifies that the Company should reevaluate whether a callable debt security is within the scope of paragraph 310-20-35-33 for each reporting period. The Company adopted ASU 2020-08 on December 15, 2020. The adoption of ASU 2020-08 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Recent Accounting Guidance Not Yet Effective
In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-13, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (Topic 326) and subsequent amendment to the initial guidance in November 2018, ASU No. 2018-19, Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, in April 2019, ASU 2019-04, Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments, and in May 2019, ASU 2019-05 Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, Topic 326, all of which clarifies codification and corrects unintended application of the guidance. ASU 2016-13 significantly changes how entities will measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net income. In issuing the standard, the FASB is responding to criticism that today’s guidance delays recognition of credit losses. The standard will replace today’s “incurred loss” approach with an “expected loss” model. The new model, referred to as the current expected credit loss (“CECL”) model, will apply to: (1) financial assets subject to credit losses and measured at amortized cost, and (2) certain off-balance sheet credit exposures. This includes, but is not limited to, loans, leases, held-to-maturity securities, loan commitments, and financial guarantees. The CECL model does not apply to available-for-sale (“AFS”) debt securities. For AFS debt securities with unrealized losses, entities will measure credit losses in a manner similar to what they do today, except that the losses will be recognized as allowances rather than reductions in the amortized cost of the securities. As a result, entities will recognize improvements to estimated credit losses immediately in earnings rather than as interest income over time, as they do today. The ASU also simplifies the accounting model for purchased credit-impaired (“PCI”) debt securities and loans. ASU 2016-13 also expands the disclosure requirements regarding an entity’s assumptions, models, and methods for estimating the allowance for loan and lease losses. In addition, public business entities will need to disclose the amortized cost balance for each class of financial asset by credit quality indicator, disaggregated by the year of origination. ASU 2018-19 clarifies that receivables arising from operating leases are accounted for using lease guidance and not as financial instruments. ASU 2019-04, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments,” affects a variety of topics in the Codification and applies to all reporting entities within the scope of the affected accounting guidance. ASU 2019-05 allows entities to irrevocably elect, upon adoption of ASU 2016-13, the fair value option on financial instruments that (1) were previously recorded at amortized cost and (2) are within the scope of ASC 326-20 if the instruments are eligible for the fair value option under ASC 825-10. The fair value option election does not apply to held-to-maturity debt securities. Entities are required to make this election on an instrument-by-instrument basis. The amendments in these ASUs are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2022, with early adoption permitted for smaller reporting companies, such as the Company. Entities will apply the standard’s provisions as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective (i.e., modified retrospective approach). The Company is reviewing the requirements of these ASUs and expects to begin developing and implementing processes and procedures to ensure it is fully compliant with the amendments at the adoption date. Upon adoption, the Company expects changes in the processes and procedures used to calculate the allowance for loan losses, including changes in assumptions and estimates to consider expected credit losses over the life of the loan versus the current accounting practice that utilizes the incurred loss model. The new guidance may result in an increase in the allowance for loan losses which will also reflect the new requirement to include the nonaccretable principal differences on purchased credit-impaired loans; however, the Company is still in the process of determining the magnitude of the change and its impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting. This ASU applies to contracts, hedging relationships and other transactions that reference LIBOR or other rate references expected to be discontinued because of reference rate reform. The ASU permits an entity to make necessary modifications to eligible contracts or transactions without requiring contract remeasurement or reassessment of a previous accounting determination. In January 2021, ASU 2021-01 updated amendments in the new ASU to clarify that certain optional expedients and exceptions in Topic 848 for contract modifications and hedge accounting apply to derivative instruments that use an interest rate for margining, discounting, or contract price alignment that is modified as a result of reference rate reform. Amendments in this ASU to the expedients and exceptions in Topic 848 capture the incremental consequences of the scope clarification and tailor the existing guidance to derivative basis. The amendments in this ASU have differing effective dates, beginning with an interim period including and subsequent to March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. The Company does not expect the adoption of ASU 2020-04 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statement
Recent Events
On March 22, 2020, the Interagency Statement was issued by our banking regulators that encourages financial institutions to work prudently with borrowers who are or may be unable to meet their contractual payment obligations due to the effects of COVID-19. Additionally, Section 4013 of the CARES Act further provides that a qualified loan modification is exempt by law from classification as a TDR as defined by GAAP, from the period beginning March 1, 2020 until the earlier of December 31, 2020 or the date that is 60 days after the date on which the national emergency concerning the COVID-19 outbreak declared by the President of the United States under the National Emergencies Act terminates. The Interagency Statement was subsequently revised in April 2020 to clarify the interaction of the original guidance with Section 4013 of the CARES Act, as well as setting forth the banking regulators’ views on consumer protection considerations. On December 27, 2020, the CAA, 2021 was signed into law Section 541 of CAA, 2021 extends this relief to the earlier of January 1, 2022 or 60 days after the national emergency termination date. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the amount of portfolio loans remaining under payment/relief agreements totaled $2.7 million and $66.7 million, respectively. The majority of these modifications involved short-term (e.g. less than six months) extensions and/or interest-only periods.
Subsequent Events
Management has evaluated subsequent events for potential recognition and disclosure through March 31, 2022, the date the financial statements were issued.
On September 7, 2021, the Company announced the execution of a definitive agreement to acquire in an all-stock transaction Pacific Enterprise Bancorp (“PEB”), the holding company for Pacific Enterprise Bank, a California-chartered commercial bank. Subject to the terms and conditions of the merger agreement, the transaction provided for the PEB shareholders to receive consideration of 1.0292 shares of BayCom common stock in exchange for each share of PEB common stock representing an aggregate transaction value of approximately $64.4 million. The PEB transaction was completed effective February 1, 2022. Upon closing of the transaction, PEB merged into the Company and Pacific Enterprise Bank merged into the Bank. At December 31, 2021, PEB had approximately $518.5 million in assets, $429.7 million in loans, $403.4 million in deposits and $64.8 million in stockholders’ equity. Upon completion of the transaction, the combined company has approximately $2.9 billion in total assets, $2.1 billion in total loans and $2.4 billion in total deposits. The transaction expands the Company’s presence in Orange County, California. Pacific Enterprise Bank serves its communities through its one full-service location in Irvine, California. With this acquisition the United Business Bank has a total of 34 full-service locations, with 16 locations in California, two in Washington, five in New Mexico and 11 in Colorado.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Reclassifications
Certain prior year amounts are reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. None of the reclassifications impact net income or earnings per common share.
2. ACQUISITIONS
On February 4, 2020, the Company completed its acquisition of GMB. As of the acquisition date, GMB merged into the Company and Grand Mountain Bank, GMB’s wholly owned bank subsidiary, merged into United Business Bank. The acquisition expanded the Company’s market share in Colorado with the addition of four branches located in Grand County, Colorado. In an all-cash transaction, the Company paid GMB shareholders $3.40 in cash in exchange for each share of GMB common stock representing an aggregate transaction value of approximately $13.9 million.
The following table summarizes the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date:
GMB
Acquisition
Date
February 4, 2020
Fair value of assets:
Cash and due from banks
$
5,454
Total cash and cash equivalents
5,454
Interest bearing deposits in banks
16,040
Investment securities available-for-sale
4,369
FHLB stock, at par
Loans, net
98,410
Premises and equipment, net
3,879
Core deposit intangible
Deferred tax assets, net
Interest receivable and other assets
Total assets acquired
130,923
Liabilities:
Deposits
Noninterest bearing
30,937
Interest bearing
87,210
Total Deposits
118,147
Junior subordinated debentures, net
1,575
Interest payable and other liabilities
Total liabilities assumed
120,409
Cash consideration
13,886
Goodwill
$
3,372
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
The following table presents the net assets acquired and the estimated fair value adjustments, which resulted in goodwill at the acquisition date:
GMB
Acquisition
Date
February 4, 2020
Book value of net assets acquired
$
10,348
Fair value adjustments:
Investments available-for-sale
(10)
Loans, net
Premises and equipment, net
(1,000)
Core deposit intangible
Tax assets
(139)
Time deposits
(25)
Junior subordinated debentures, net
(98)
Write-down other (assets) liabilities
Total purchase accounting adjustments
Cash paid
13,886
Total price paid
13,886
Pro Forma Results of Operations (Unaudited)
The operating results of the Company in the consolidated statements of income include the operating results of GMB, TIG and UFC, since their respective acquisition dates. The following table represents the net interest income, net income, basic and diluted earnings per share, as if the mergers with GMB, TIG and UFC were effective January 1, 2020 and 2019, for the respective years in which each acquisition was closed. The unaudited pro forma information in the following table is intended for informational purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of future operating results or operating results that would have occurred had the mergers been completed at the beginning of each respective year. No assumptions have been applied to the pro forma results of operation regarding possible revenue enhancements, expense efficiencies or asset dispositions.
Unaudited pro forma net interest income, net income and earnings per share are presented below:
December 31,
December 31,
Net interest income
$
78,695
$
80,649
Net income
12,929
20,447
Basic earnings per share
$
1.08
$
1.74
Diluted earnings per share
1.08
1.74
These amounts include the acquisition-related third party expenses, accretion of the discounts on acquired loans and amortization of the fair value mark adjustments on core deposit intangible.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Acquisition Expenses
Acquisition expenses are recognized as incurred and continue until all systems are converted and operational functions become fully integrated. The Company incurred third-party acquisition expenses in the consolidated statements of income for the periods indicated are as follows:
December 31, 2020
December 31, 2019
GMB
TIG
UFC
Total
Professional fees
$
$
$
$
Data processing
2,000
1,709
2,657
4,366
Severance expense
Other
Total
$
3,018
$
2,484
$
4,135
$
6,619
3. INVESTMENT SECURITIES
The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, and estimated fair value of securities classified as available-for-sale at the dates indicated are summarized as follows:
Gross
Gross
Amortized
unrealized
unrealized
Estimated
cost
gains
losses
fair value
December 31, 2021
U.S. Government Agencies
$
1,510
$
-
$
-
$
1,510
Preferred equity securities
18,331
-
18,777
Municipal securities
23,646
(16)
24,123
Mortgage-backed securities
33,973
1,333
(210)
35,096
Collateralized mortgage obligations
27,228
(158)
27,506
SBA securities
6,055
(20)
6,088
Corporate bonds
60,650
(166)
61,335
Total
$
171,393
$
3,612
$
(570)
$
174,435
Gross
Gross
Amortized
unrealized
unrealized
Estimated
cost
gains
losses
fair value
December 31, 2020
U.S. Government Agencies
$
5,523
$
$
(4)
$
5,544
Municipal securities
15,992
-
16,687
Mortgage-backed securities
34,567
2,033
(22)
36,578
Collateralized mortgage obligations
26,649
1,054
(8)
27,695
SBA securities
7,661
(46)
7,667
Corporate bonds
21,417
(83)
21,419
Total
$
111,809
$
3,944
$
(163)
$
115,590
During year ended December 31, 2021, the Company sold $3.0 million in available-for-sale investments for gross realized gains of $41,000 and did not sell any securities available-for-sale for the year ended December 31, 2020.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
The estimated fair value and gross unrealized losses for securities available-for-sale aggregated by the length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at the dates indicated are as follows:
Less than 12 months
12 months or more
Total
Estimated
Unrealized
Estimated
Unrealized
Estimated
Unrealized
fair value
loss
fair value
loss
fair value
loss
December 31, 2021
Municipal securities
$
3,932
$
(16)
$
-
$
-
$
3,932
$
(16)
Mortgage-backed securities
2,954
(111)
2,133
(99)
5,087
(210)
Collateralized mortgage obligations
9,236
(108)
1,605
(50)
10,841
(158)
SBA securities
-
1,058
(20)
1,192
(20)
Corporate bonds
23,084
(166)
-
-
23,084
(166)
Total
$
39,340
$
(401)
$
4,796
$
(169)
$
44,136
$
(570)
Less than 12 months
12 months or more
Total
Estimated
Unrealized
Estimated
Unrealized
Estimated
Unrealized
fair value
loss
fair value
loss
fair value
loss
December 31, 2020
U.S. Government Agencies
$
1,511
$
(4)
$
-
$
-
$
1,511
$
(4)
Municipal securities
-
-
-
-
Mortgage-backed securities
2,164
(10)
(12)
2,642
(22)
Collateralized mortgage obligations
1,742
(3)
(5)
2,539
(8)
SBA securities
(1)
3,705
(45)
4,267
(46)
Corporate bonds
10,432
(81)
1,001
(2)
11,433
(83)
Total
$
16,913
$
(99)
$
5,981
$
(64)
$
22,894
$
(163)
Certain investment securities shown in the previous tables have fair values less than amortized cost and therefore contain unrealized losses. At December 31, 2021, management has evaluated all securities and has determined that no securities are other than temporarily impaired. Because the Company does not intend to sell and it is more likely than not that management will not be required to sell the securities prior to their anticipated recovery, which may be maturity, the Company does not consider these securities to be other-than temporarily impaired.
At December 31, 2021, the Company held 359 investment securities, of which 17 were in an unrealized loss position for more than twelve months and 38 were in an unrealized loss position for less than twelve months. These temporary unrealized losses relate principally to current interest rates for similar types of securities. The Company anticipates full recovery of amortized cost with respect to these securities at maturity or sooner in the event of a more favorable market interest rate environment.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of securities available-for-sale at the dates indicated by contractual maturity are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.
December 31, 2021
December 31, 2020
Amortized
Estimated
Amortized
Estimated
cost
fair value
cost
fair value
Available-for-sale
Due in one year or less
$
$
$
7,273
$
7,342
Due after one through five years
41,850
42,950
19,424
20,322
Due after five years through ten years
79,116
79,993
34,165
34,898
Due after ten years
49,565
50,627
50,947
53,028
Total
$
171,393
$
174,435
$
111,809
$
115,590
At December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were no securities pledged.
4. LOANS
The Company’s loan portfolio at the dates indicated is summarized below:
December 31,
December 31,
Commercial and industrial
$
230,177
$
309,961
Construction and land
13,371
22,696
Commercial real estate
1,299,684
1,144,560
Residential
118,423
164,724
Consumer
5,138
5,218
Total loans
1,666,793
1,647,159
Net deferred loan fees
(1,903)
(3,847)
Allowance for loan losses
(17,700)
(17,500)
Net loans
$
1,647,190
$
1,625,812
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Bank participated in the PPP, a guaranteed unsecured loan program enacted under the CARES Act to provide near-term relief to help small businesses impacted by COVID-19 sustain operations. At December 31, 2021, PPP loans included in commercial and industrial business loans totaled $69.6 million, all of which are fully guaranteed by the SBA, compared to $136.5 million as of December 31, 2020. The Bank expects that the great majority of PPP borrowers will seek full or partial forgiveness of their loan obligations in accordance with the CARES Act.
For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, impaired loans on nonaccrual were $6.9 million and $8.4 million, respectively. Interest foregone on nonaccrual loans was approximately $281,000 and $118,000 for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company had floating or variable rate loans totaling $955.2 million and $936.7 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2021, a total of $693.0 million have interest rate floors, of which $651.7 million, were at their floors. As of December 31, 2020, a total of $634.1 million have interest rate floors, of which $558.9 million were at their floors.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
The Company’s total impaired loans, including nonaccrual loans, accruing TDR loans and accreting PCI loans that have experienced post-acquisition declines in cash flows expected to be collected are summarized as follows:
Commercial
Construction
Commercial
and industrial
and land
real estate
Residential
Consumer
Total
December 31, 2021
Recorded investment in impaired loans:
With no specific allowance recorded
$
$
$
5,015
$
1,441
$
-
$
6,604
With a specific allowance recorded
-
-
1,089
Total recorded investment in impaired loans
$
$
$
5,277
$
1,587
$
-
$
7,693
Specific allowance on impaired loans
$
$
-
$
$
$
-
December 31, 2020
Recorded investment in impaired loans:
With no specific allowance recorded
$
$
$
5,689
$
2,040
$
-
$
7,885
With a specific allowance recorded
-
-
1,334
Total recorded investment in impaired loans
$
$
$
6,140
$
2,195
$
-
$
9,219
Specific allowance on impaired loans
$
$
-
$
$
$
-
$
Year ended December 31, 2021
Average recorded investment in impaired loans
$
$
$
5,624
$
2,094
$
-
$
8,859
Interest recognized
-
-
Year ended December 31, 2020
Average recorded investment in impaired loans
2,095
3,468
1,731
8,140
Interest recognized
-
-
In 2021 and 2020, the Company recorded no charge-offs related to restructured loans. As of December 31, 2021, TDR loans had a related allowance of $259,000 and as of December 31, 2020, TDR loans had a related allowance of $35,000. There are no commitments to lend additional amounts to borrowers with outstanding loans that are classified as TDRs at December 31, 2021. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, $765,000 and $798,000 of TDR loans were performing in accordance with their modified terms, respectively.
A summary of TDRs by type of concession and type of loan as of the years ended:
Number of
Rate
Term
Rate & term
loans
modification
modification
modification
Total
December 31, 2021
Commercial and industrial
$
-
$
$
-
$
Construction and land
-
-
-
-
-
Commercial real estate
-
2,237
-
2,237
Residential
-
-
Consumer
-
-
-
-
-
Total
$
-
$
2,408
$
-
$
2,408
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Number of
Rate
Term
Rate & term
loans
modification
modification
modification
Total
December 31, 2020
Commercial and industrial
$
-
$
$
-
$
Construction and land
-
-
-
-
-
Commercial real estate
-
1,180
-
1,180
Residential
-
-
Consumer
-
-
-
-
-
Total
$
-
$
1,366
$
-
$
1,366
The following tables present information for loans by class, modified as TDRs, during the years indicated:
Pre-Modification
Post-Modification
Number of
Outstanding Recorded
Outstanding Recorded
loans
Investment
Investment
Year ended December 31, 2021
Commercial and industrial
-
$
-
$
-
Construction and land
-
-
-
Commercial real estate
Residential
-
-
-
Consumer
-
-
-
Total
$
$
Pre-Modification
Post-Modification
Number of
Outstanding Recorded
Outstanding Recorded
loans
Investment
Investment
Year ended December 31, 2020
Commercial and industrial
$
$
Construction and land
-
-
-
Commercial real estate
-
-
-
Residential
Consumer
-
-
-
Total
$
$
The following tables represent the internally assigned risk grade by class of loans at the years indicated:
Special
Pass
Mention
Substandard
Doubtful
Total
December 31, 2021
Commercial and industrial
$
216,611
$
9,178
$
4,388
$
-
$
230,177
Construction and land
13,264
-
13,371
Commercial real estate
1,264,269
28,438
6,977
-
1,299,684
Residential
115,534
1,250
1,639
-
118,423
Consumer
5,116
-
-
5,138
Total
$
1,614,794
$
38,937
$
13,062
$
-
$
1,666,793
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Special
Pass
Mention
Substandard
Doubtful
Total
December 31, 2020
Commercial and industrial
$
295,245
$
10,466
$
4,250
$
-
$
309,961
Construction and land
22,346
-
22,696
Commercial real estate
1,112,085
26,329
6,146
-
1,144,560
Residential
161,161
1,333
2,230
-
164,724
Consumer
5,216
-
-
5,218
Total
$
1,596,053
$
38,441
$
12,665
$
-
$
1,647,159
All loans modified due to COVID-19 are separately monitored and any request for continuation of relief beyond the initial modification will be reassessed at that time to determine if a further modification should be granted and if a downgrade in risk rating is appropriate.
The following table provides an aging of the Company’s loans receivable as of the years indicated:
Recorded
90 Days
investment >
30-59 Days
60-89 Days
or more
Total
Total loans
90 days and
past due
past due
past due
past due
Current
PCI loans
receivable
accruing
December 31, 2021
Commercial and industrial
$
$
$
$
$
228,980
$
$
230,177
$
-
Construction and land
-
12,997
-
13,371
-
Commercial real estate
2,621
3,227
1,286,311
10,146
1,299,684
-
Residential
1,442
1,031
2,494
114,162
1,767
118,423
-
Consumer
-
-
5,135
-
5,138
-
Total
$
1,916
$
$
4,294
$
6,989
$
1,647,585
$
12,219
$
1,666,793
$
-
Recorded
90 Days
investment >
30-59 Days
60-89 Days
or more
Total
Total loans
90 days and
past due
past due
past due
past due
Current
PCI loans
receivable
accruing
December 31, 2020
Commercial and industrial
$
$
$
$
1,100
$
308,239
$
$
309,961
$
-
Construction and land
-
22,311
22,696
Commercial real estate
1,518
2,178
1,129,966
12,416
1,144,560
-
Residential
1,412
1,647
160,556
2,521
164,724
-
Consumer
-
-
5,217
-
5,218
-
Total
$
$
$
3,906
$
5,260
$
1,626,289
$
15,610
$
1,647,159
$
PCI Loans
The unpaid principal balance and carrying value of the Company’s PCI loans at the years indicated are as follows:
December 31, 2021
December 31, 2020
Unpaid
Unpaid
principal
Carrying
principal
Carrying
balance
value
balance
value
Commercial and industrial
$
$
$
1,000
$
Construction and land
-
-
Commercial real estate
11,519
10,146
14,096
12,416
Residential
2,202
1,767
3,127
2,521
Total
$
14,267
$
12,219
$
18,323
$
15,610
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
In connection with the Company's acquisitions, the contractual amount and timing of undiscounted principal and interest payments and the estimated amount and timing of undiscounted expected principal and interest payments were used to estimate the fair value of PCI loans at the acquisition date. The difference between these two amounts represented the nonaccretable difference. On the acquisition date, the amount by which the undiscounted expected cash flows exceed the estimated fair value of the acquired loans is the “accretable yield”. The accretable yield is then measured at each financial reporting date and represented the difference between the remaining undiscounted expected cash flows and the current carrying value of the loans. For PCI loans the accretable yield is accreted into interest income over the life of the estimated remaining cash flows. At each financial reporting date, the carrying value of each PCI loan is compared to an updated estimate of expected principal payment or recovery on each loan. To the extent that the loan carrying amount exceeds the updated expected principal payment or recovery, a provision of loan loss would be recorded as a charge to income and an allowance for loan loss established.
At December 31, 2021, the accretable and nonaccretable differences were approximately $508,000 and $1.5 million, respectively. At December 31, 2020, the accretable and nonaccretable differences were approximately $383,000 and $2.3 million, respectively. The Company did not have any allowance for loan losses for PCI loans during the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to $107,000 during the year ended December 31, 2020.
The following table reflects the changes in the accretable yield of PCI loans for the years indicated:
December 31,
Balance at beginning of period
$
$
Additions
-
Removals
(183)
(51)
Transfers from nonaccretable yield
-
Accretion
(411)
Balance at end of period
$
$
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
5. ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES
The following table summarizes the Company’s allowance for loan losses and loan balances individually and collectively evaluated for impairment by loan product and collateral type as of or for the periods ending as indicated.
Commercial
Construction
Commercial
and industrial
and land
real estate
Residential
Consumer
Total
December 31, 2021
Allowance for loan losses
Beginning balance
$
4,042
$
$
11,211
$
1,856
$
$
17,500
Charge-offs
(232)
-
(44)
-
(5)
(281)
Recoveries
-
-
-
Provision (reclassification) for loan losses
(560)
(207)
1,542
(320)
Ending balance
$
3,261
$
$
12,709
$
1,536
$
$
17,700
Allowance for loan losses by methodology:
Loans individually evaluated for impairment
$
$
-
$
$
$
-
$
Loans collectively evaluated for impairment
2,580
12,485
1,511
16,770
PCI loans
-
-
-
-
-
-
Loans receivable by methodology:
Individually evaluated for impairment
$
$
1,587
$
5,277
$
$
-
$
7,693
Collectively evaluated for impairment
229,078
11,784
1,284,261
116,620
5,138
1,646,881
PCI loans
-
10,146
1,767
-
12,219
Total loans
$
230,177
$
13,371
$
1,299,684
$
118,423
$
5,138
$
1,666,793
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Commercial
Construction
Commercial
and industrial
and land
real estate
Residential
Consumer
Total
December 31, 2020
Allowance for loan losses
Beginning balance
$
1,788
$
$
5,004
$
$
$
7,400
Charge-offs
(199)
(20)
-
(1)
(17)
(237)
Recoveries
-
-
-
Provision for loan losses
$
2,440
6,203
1,430
10,320
Ending balance
4,042
$
$
11,211
$
1,856
$
$
17,500
Allowance for loan losses by methodology:
Loans individually evaluated for impairment
$
$
-
$
$
$
-
$
Loans collectively evaluated for impairment
3,515
11,134
1,832
16,872
PCI loans
-
-
-
-
Loans receivable by methodology:
Individually evaluated for impairment
$
$
$
6,140
$
2,195
$
-
$
9,219
Collectively evaluated for impairment
308,491
22,609
1,126,004
160,008
5,218
1,622,330
PCI loans
12,416
2,521
-
15,610
Total loans
$
309,961
$
22,696
$
1,144,560
$
164,724
$
5,218
$
1,647,159
6. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT
Premises and equipment consisted of the following at the dates indicated:
December 31,
December 31,
Premises owned
$
11,015
$
10,891
Leasehold improvements
2,608
3,274
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
6,201
6,940
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(5,454)
(5,966)
Total premises and equipment, net
$
14,370
$
15,139
Depreciation and amortization included in occupancy and equipment expense totaled $2.0 million, $1.9 million and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
7. LEASES
The Company currently owns 15 of our banking branches and lease the remaining 18 branches under noncancelable operating leases. These leases expire on various dates through 2030. The Company’s leases often have an option to renew one or more times, at the Company’s discretion, following the expiration of the initial term. If at lease inception, the Company considers the exercising of a renewal option to be reasonably certain, the Company will include the extended term in the calculation of the ROU asset and lease liability. The Company uses the rate implicit in the lease whenever this rate is readily determinable. As this rate is rarely determinable, the Company utilizes its incremental borrowing rate at lease inception, on a collateralized basis, over a similar term.
The below maturity schedule represents the undiscounted lease payments for the five-year period and thereafter as of December 31, 2021.
Year ending December 31,
$
3,201
2,791
2,257
1,568
1,300
Thereafter
2,448
Total undiscounted cash flows
13,565
Less: interest
(908)
Present value of lease payments
$
12,657
The following table presents the remaining weighted average lease term and discount rate at the date indicated:
December 31, 2021
Weighted-average remaining lease term
5.4
years
Weighted-average discount rate
2.52
%
Rental expense included in occupancy and equipment on the consolidated statements of income totaled $3.4 million, $3.3 million and $3.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
8. OTHER REAL ESTATE OWNED
Other real estate owned as of the dates indicated consisted of the following:
December 31,
December 31,
Land
$
$
Total
$
$
As of December 31, 2021, there were two residential mortgage loans in the process of foreclosure totaling $1.0 million, compared to two residential mortgage loans in the process of foreclosure totaling $690,000 at December 31, 2020.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
9. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill
Changes in the Company’s goodwill for the periods indicated are as follows:
December 31,
December 31,
Balance at beginning of period
$
38,838
$
35,466
Acquired goodwill
-
3,372
Impairment
-
-
Balance at end of period
$
38,838
$
38,838
Impairment exists when a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. Due to the adverse and unknown economic impacts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company performed a goodwill impairment qualitative assessment during each quarter of 2021 to determine if it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the Company’s reporting unit exceeded its carrying value, including goodwill.
As of December 31, 2021 the Company’s qualitative assessment which considered the Company’s continued profitability, positive equity, average community bank merger deal values realized during 2021, net interest margin, allowance for loan loss, and the continued growth in its core deposit portfolio, the Company concluded that the goodwill of the Company’s reporting unit, the Bank, is not more likely than not to be impaired
Core Deposit Intangible
Changes in the Company’s core deposit intangible for the periods indicated were as follows:
December 31,
December 31,
Balance at beginning of period
$
8,302
$
9,185
Additions
-
Less amortization
(1,813)
(1,832)
Balance at end of period
$
6,489
$
8,302
Estimated annual amortization at December 31, 2021 is as follows:
Year ending December 31,
$
1,813
1,034
Thereafter
1,290
Total
$
6,489
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
10. INTEREST RECEIVABLE AND OTHER ASSETS
The Company’s other assets at the dates indicated consisted of the following:
December 31,
December 31,
Tax assets, net
$
10,573
$
8,577
Accrued interest receivable
5,929
7,312
Investment in SBIC Fund
4,731
3,497
Prepaid assets
1,598
1,594
Servicing assets
1,947
1,783
Low income housing partnerships, net
3,129
3,002
Investment in statutory trusts
Other assets
1,469
1,298
Total
$
29,860
$
27,544
11. DEPOSITS
The Company’s deposits consisted of the following at the dates indicated:
December 31,
December 31,
Demand deposits
$
710,137
$
678,365
NOW accounts and savings
484,847
399,772
Money market
568,094
516,560
Time deposits
222,161
243,700
Total
$
1,985,239
$
1,838,397
The Company accepts deposits related to real estate transactions qualifying under Section 1031, Tax Deferred Exchanges, of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Internal Revenue Code”). These deposits fluctuate as the sellers of real estate have up to six months to invest in replacement real estate to defer the income tax on the property sold. The Company also accepts deposits related to business escrow services. During 2020, the Company started to wind down its escrow services. Deposits related to these activities totaled $1.7 million and $4.0 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
At December 31, 2021, aggregate annual maturities of time deposits are as follows:
Year ending December 31,
$
194,532
17,041
5,820
3,214
1,554
Total
$
222,161
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Interest expense, net of early withdrawal penalty, recognized on interest bearing deposits at the dates indicated consisted of the following:
December 31,
December 31,
December 31,
NOW accounts and savings
$
$
$
Money market
2,266
2,721
2,912
Time deposits
2,157
3,816
5,001
Total
$
4,875
$
6,954
$
8,165
12. OTHER BORROWINGS
The Company has an approved secured borrowing facility with the FHLB for up to 25% of total assets for a term not to exceed five years under a blanket lien of certain types of loans. At December 31, 2021, the Company had no other borrowings outstanding, compared to $5.0 million of FHLB advances outstanding at December 31, 2020.
The Company has Federal Funds lines with four correspondent banks. Cumulative available commitments totaled $65.0 and $75.0 million at December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively. There are no amounts outstanding under these facilities at both December 31, 2021 and 2020.
13. JUNIOR SUBORDINATED DEFERRABLE INTEREST DEBENTURES
The Company acquired the BFC Trust in the acquisition of BFC. The BFC Trust was formed in Delaware with capital of $93,000 for the sole purpose of issuing trust preferred securities fully and unconditionally guaranteed by BFC. The BFC Trust issued Floating Rate Capital Trust Pass-Through Securities (“BFC Trust Preferred Securities”), with a liquidation value of $1,000 per security, for gross proceeds of $3.1 million prior to the BFC acquisition and the liability was assumed during the acquisition. The entire proceeds of the issuance were invested by the BFC Trust in $3.1 million of Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures issued by BFC, with identical maturities, repricing and payment terms as the BFC Trust Preferred Securities. The subordinated debentures have a variable interest rate based on the three months LIBOR plus 2.75%, with quarterly repricing. The debentures are redeemable by the Company subject to prior approval from the Federal Reserve on any March 15, June 15, September 15, or December 15. The redemption price is par plus accrued and unpaid interest, except in the case of redemption under special event which is defined in the debenture. The BFC Trust Preferred Securities are subject to mandatory redemption to the extent of any early redemption of the subordinated debentures or upon its maturity on June 17, 2034.
The Company acquired the FULB Trust in the acquisition of FULB. The FULB Trust was formed in Delaware with capital of $192,000 for the sole purpose of issuing trust preferred securities fully and unconditionally guaranteed by FULB. The FULB Trust issued 6,200 Floating Rate Capital Trust Pass-Through Securities (“FULB Trust Preferred Securities”), with a liquidation value of $1,000 per security, for gross proceeds of $6.2 million prior to the FULB acquisition and the liability was assumed during the acquisition. The entire proceeds of the issuance were invested by the FULB Trust in $6.4 million of Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures issued by FULB, with identical maturities, repricing and payment terms as the FULB Trust Preferred Securities. The subordinated debentures have a variable interest rate based on the three months LIBOR plus 2.5%, with quarterly repricing. The debentures are redeemable by the Company subject to prior approval from the Federal Reserve, on any March 15, June 15, September 15, or December 15. The redemption price is par plus accrued and unpaid interest, except in the case of redemption under special event which is defined in the debenture. The FULB Trust Preferred Securities are subject to mandatory redemption to the extent of any early redemption of the subordinated debentures or upon its maturity on September 15, 2034.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Holders of the trust preferred securities issued by the Trusts are entitled to a cumulative cash distribution on the liquidation amount of $1,000 per security. Each of the Trusts has the option to defer payment of the distributions for a period of up to five years, as long as the Company is not in default of the payment of interest on the subordinated debentures. The trust preferred securities were sold and issued in private transactions pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company has guaranteed, on a subordinated basis, distributions and other payments due on the trust preferred securities.
The following is a summary of the contractual terms of the subordinated debentures due to the Trusts at the date indicated:
December 31, 2021
Subordinated debenture
Gross
Mark to market
Net
Interest rate
Effective rate
BFC Trust
$
3,093
$
(312)
$
2,781
2.97
%
2.95
%
FULB Trust
6,392
(770)
5,622
2.70
%
2.70
%
Total
$
9,485
$
(1,082)
$
8,403
2.79
%
2.78
%
December 31, 2020
Subordinated debenture
Gross
Mark to Market
Net
Interest rate
Effective Rate
BFC Trust
$
3,093
$
(334)
$
2,759
2.97
%
3.55
%
FULB Trust
6,392
(829)
5,563
2.72
%
3.28
%
Total
$
9,485
$
(1,163)
$
8,322
2.80
%
3.37
%
14. SUBORDINATED DEBT
On August 6, 2020, the Company issued and sold $65.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.25% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes due 2030 (the “Notes”) at a public offering price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes. The offering of the Notes closed on August 10, 2020. The Notes initially bears a fixed interest rate of 5.25% per year. Commencing on September 15, 2025, the interest rate on the Notes resets quarterly to the three-month Secured Overnight Financing rate (“SOFR”) plus a spread of 521 basis points (5.21%), payable quarterly in arrears. Interest on the Notes is payable semi-annually on June 15 and September 15 of each year through September 15, 2025 and quarterly thereafter on March 15, June 15, September 15 and December 15 of each year through the maturity date or early redemption date. The Company, at its option, may redeem the Notes, in whole or in part, on any interest payment date on or after September 15, 2025, without a premium. At December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had outstanding subordinate debt, net of costs to issue, totaling $63.5 million and $63.4 million, respectively.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
15. INCOME TAXES
Income tax expense for the dates indicated consisted of the following:
Year Ended December 31,
Current income tax expense:
Federal
$
5,122
$
3,718
$
4,813
State
2,572
2,487
2,935
Total current tax expense
7,694
6,205
7,748
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense:
Federal
(95)
(895)
(938)
State
(807)
(437)
Total deferred tax (benefit) expense
(1,702)
(1,375)
Total income tax expense
$
7,789
$
4,503
$
6,373
Income tax expense results in effective tax rates that differ from the statutory federal income tax rate for the years indicated as follows:
December 31, 2021
December 31, 2020
December 31, 2019
Amount
Rate%
Amount
Rate%
Amount
Rate%
Federal statutory tax rate
$
5,981
21.00
%
$
3,828
21.00
%
$
5,000
21.00
%
State statutory tax rate, net of federal effective tax rate
2,182
7.66
1,327
7.28
1,963
8.29
Tax exempt interest
(80)
(0.28)
(81)
(0.44)
(76)
(0.32)
Bank owned life insurance
(140)
(0.49)
(137)
(0.75)
(132)
(0.56)
Acquisition expenses
-
-
0.37
0.62
Other
(154)
(0.54)
(501)
(2.75)
(529)
(2.23)
Total income tax expense
$
7,789
27.35
%
$
4,503
24.70
%
$
6,373
26.80
%
The Company is subject to federal income tax and state franchise tax. Federal income tax returns for the years ended on or after December 31, 2018 are open to audit by the federal authorities and California, Colorado and New Mexico returns for the years ended on or after December 31, 2017 are open to audit by state authorities.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Deferred tax assets at the dates indicated, included as a component of interest receivable and other assets in the consolidated balance sheets consisted of the following:
December 31,
December 31,
Deferred tax assets
Net operating loss carryforward
$
3,262
$
3,585
Salary continuation plan
1,263
1,153
Allowance for loan losses
5,090
5,032
Stock based compensation
Lease liability
4,128
3,545
Other liabilities
Other
1,055
1,218
Total deferred tax assets
15,589
15,402
Deferred tax liabilities
Mark to market adjustment
(1,623)
(1,953)
ROU assets
(3,488)
(3,465)
FHLB stock dividend
(244)
(248)
Unrealized gain on AFS securities
(875)
(1,087)
Other
(1,360)
(767)
Total deferred tax liability
(7,590)
(7,520)
Deferred tax assets, net
$
7,999
$
7,882
The utilization of the net operating losses (“NOLs”) is subject to an annual limit pursuant to Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code. The amount of the annual limitations for Federal and California Franchise Tax purpose is $1.1 million and if not fully utilized, the NOLs will begin to expire in 2028. Based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods during which the deferred tax assets are expected to be deductible, Management believes it is more likely than not we will realize the benefit of the remaining deferred tax assets. Accordingly, no valuation allowance has been established as of December 31, 2021 or 2020. At December 31, 2021, Federal, California and Colorado NOLs included in the deferred tax asset totaled $11.0 million, $9.9 million and $4.2 million, respectively.
The CARES Act, among other things, permits NOL carryovers and carrybacks to offset 100% of taxable income for taxable years beginning before 2021. In addition, the CARES Act allows NOLs incurred in 2018, 2019, and 2020 to be carried back to each of the five preceding taxable years to generate a refund of previously paid income taxes. The Company evaluated the impact of the CARES Act and determined that none of the changes would result in a material income tax benefit to the Company. On December 27, 2020, the CAA, 2021 was signed into law which extends several provisions of the CARES Act. As of December 31, 2021, the Company determined that neither the CAA, 2021 nor any other changes to income tax laws or regulations in other jurisdictions had a significant impact on the Company’s effective tax rate.
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Company did not recognize any interest and penalties. The Company had no unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2021 and 2020.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
16. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Lending and Letter of Credit Commitments
In the normal course of business, the Company enters into various commitments to extend credit which are not reflected in the financial statements. These commitments consist of the undisbursed balance on personal, and commercial lines, including commercial real estate secured lines of credit, and of the undisbursed funds on construction and development loans. The Company also issues standby letter of credit commitments, primarily for the third party performance obligations of clients.
The following table presents a summary of commitments described above as of the dates indicated:
December 31,
December 31,
Commitments to extend credit
$
100,686
$
108,376
Standby letters of credit
3,453
2,326
Total commitments
$
104,139
$
110,702
Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses. The actual liquidity needs or the credit risk that the Company will experience will be lower than the contractual amount of commitments to extend credit because a significant portion of these commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon. The commitments are generally variable rate and include unfunded home equity lines of credit, commercial real estate construction where disbursement is made over the course of construction, commercial revolving lines of credit, and unsecured personal lines of credit. The Company’s outstanding loan commitments are made using the same underwriting standards as comparable outstanding loans. The reserve associated with these commitments included in interest payable and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets was $315,000 at December 31, 2021 and $415,000 at December 2020.
Commercial Real Estate Concentrations
At December 31, 2021 and 2020, in management’s judgment, a concentration of loans existed in commercial real estate related loans. The Company’s commercial real estate loans are secured by owner-occupied and non-owner occupied commercial real estate and multifamily properties. Although management believes that loans within these concentrations have no more than the normal risk of collectability, a decline in the performance of the economy in general or a decline in real estate value in the Company’s primary market areas in particular, could have an adverse impact on collectability.
Other Assets
The Company has commitments to fund Low Income Housing Tax Credit Partnerships (“LIHTC”) and a Small Business Investment Company (“SBIC”). At December 31, 2021, the remaining commitments to the LIHTC and SBIC were approximately $2.3 million and $122,000, respectively. At December 31, 2020, the remaining commitment to the LIHTC and SBIC were $899,000 and $122,000, respectively.
Deposits
At December 31, 2021, approximately $198.6 million, or 10.0%, of the Company’s deposits are derived from the top ten depositors. At December 31, 2020, approximately $170.1 million, or 9.3%, of the Company’s deposits are derived from the top ten depositors.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Local Agency Deposits
In the normal course of business, the Company accepts deposits from local agencies. The Company is required to provide collateral for certain local agency deposits in the states of California, Colorado, New Mexico and Washington. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the FHLB issued letters of credit on behalf of the Company totaling $42.0 million and $30.1 million, respectively, as collateral for local agency deposits.
17. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
401(k) Plan
Effective January 1, 2005, the Company adopted a qualified 401(k) profit sharing plan (the “401(k) Plan”) that covers substantially all full-time employees. The 401(k) Plan permits voluntary contributions by participants and provides for voluntary matching contributions by the Company after 90 days of employment. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, the Company made contributions to the plan of $570,000, $642,000 and $507,000, respectively.
Salary Continuation Plan
In 2014, the Company established a salary continuation plan for one of its executive officers. In 2017, the Company extended coverage to two additional executive officers. Under the agreements, the Company provides the executive, or their designated beneficiaries, with annual benefits for fifteen years after retirement or death. The contributions are based on the executive’s performance related to Company’s financial performance. These benefits are substantially equivalent to those available under insurance policies purchased by the Company on the life of the executives. At December 31, 2021, approximately $1.4 million of the salary continuation plan was related to plans assumed through the Company’s acquisitions. There are no further requirements to fund these plans.
The expense recognized included in salaries and benefits expense in the consolidated statements of income under the salary continuation agreements defined above totaled $594,000, $577,000 and $545,000 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
18. EQUITY INCENTIVE PLANS
2017 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan
The Company’s shareholders approved the Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan (“2017 Plan”) in November 2017. The 2017 Plan provides for the awarding by the Company’s Board of Directors of equity incentive awards to employees and non-employee directors. An equity incentive award may be an option, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units, stock award, other stock-based award or performance award granted under the 2017 Plan. Factors considered by the Board in awarding equity incentives to officers and employees include the performance of the Company, the employee’s or officer’s job performance, the importance of his or her position, and his or her contribution to the organization’s goals for the award period. Subject to adjustment as provided in the 2017 Plan, the maximum number of shares of common stock that may be delivered pursuant to awards granted under the 2017 Plan is 450,000. The 2017 Plan provides for an annual restricted stock grant limits to officers, employees and directors. The annual stock grant limit per person for officers and employees is the lessor of 50,000 shares or a value of $2.0 million, and per person for directors the maximum is 25,000 shares. All unvested restricted shares outstanding vest in the event of a change in control of the Company. Awarded shares of restricted stock vest over (i) a one-year period following the date of grant, in the case of the non-employee directors, and (ii) a three-year or five-year period following the date of grant, with the initial vesting occurring on the one-year anniversary of the date of grant, in the case of the executive officers.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
2014 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan
In 2014, shareholders approved an Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan (the “2014 Plan”). A total of 148,962 equity incentive awards have been granted under the 2014 Plan. The awards are shares of restricted stock and have a vesting period of one to five years. No future equity awards will be made from the 2014 Plan.
The Company recognizes compensation expense for the restricted stock awards based on the fair value of the shares at the award date. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, total compensation expense for these plans was $1.4 million, $1.5 million and $1.2 million, respectively.
As of December 31, 2021, there was $1.4 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested shares granted as restricted stock awards. The cost is expected to be recognized over the remaining weighted-average vesting period of approximately two years.
The following table provides the restricted stock grant activity for the periods indicated:
Weighted-average
Weighted-average
grant date
grant date
Shares
fair value
Shares
fair value
Non-vested at January 1,
204,515
$
17.71
142,103
$
22.11
Granted
36,415
16.17
129,066
14.05
Vested
(98,963)
16.28
(65,222)
21.86
Forfeited
(2,692)
18.45
(1,432)
18.93
Non-Vested, at December 31,
139,275
$
16.29
204,515
$
17.71
19. REGULATORY MATTERS
Dividends
The Company’s ability to pay cash dividends is dependent on dividends or other capital distributions paid to it by the Bank, and is also limited by state corporation law. Generally, under California law a California corporation may pay dividends to its shareholders if the corporation’s retained earnings equal at least the amount of the proposed distribution plus the preferential dividend arrears amount (if any) of the corporation, or if immediately after the distribution, the value of the corporation’s assets would equal or exceed its total liabilities plus the preferential dividend arrears amount (if any).
Dividends from the Bank to the Company are restricted under California law to the lesser of the Bank’s retained earnings or the Bank’s net income for the latest three fiscal years, less dividends previously declared during that period or, with the approval of the DFPI, to the greater of the retained earnings of the Bank, the net income of the Bank for its last fiscal year, or the net income of the Bank for its current fiscal year. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2019, the Bank did not pay any dividend to the Company. The Bank paid a dividend to the Company in 2020 totaling $11.0 million.
Regulatory Capital
The Company is a bank holding company subject to capital adequacy requirements of the Federal Reserve under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, and the regulations of the Federal Reserve, except that, pursuant to the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act, effective August 30, 2018, a bank holding company with consolidated assets of less than $3 billion is generally not subject to the Federal Reserve’s capital regulations.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Under the capital regulations, the minimum capital ratios are: (1) a common equity Tier 1 capital ratio (“CET1 capital”) of 4.5% of risk-weighted assets; (2) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 6.0% of risk-weighted assets (“Tier 1 capital”); (3) a total risk-based capital ratio of 8.0% of risk-weighted assets; and (4) a leverage ratio (the ratio of Tier 1 capital to average total consolidated assets) of 4.0%. CET1 capital generally consists of common stock, retained earnings, accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) unless an institution elects to exclude AOCI from regulatory capital, and certain minority interests (all of which are subject to applicable regulatory adjustments and deductions). Tier 1 capital generally consists of CET1 capital and noncumulative perpetual preferred stock. Tier 2 capital generally consists of other preferred stock and subordinated debt which meet certain conditions, plus an amount of the allowance for loan and lease losses up to 1.25% of assets. Total capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital.
The Bank is subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the Federal Reserve. 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 consolidated financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines of the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Bank must meet specific capital adequacy guidelines that involve quantitative measures of the Bank’s assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices and until August 30, 2018, BayCom Corp was subject to similar capital regulations. The Bank’s capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors. Prompt corrective action provisions are not applicable to bank holding companies.
Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below) of Tier 1 capital to total average assets (as defined), and minimum ratios of Tier 1 capital (as defined) and CET1 capital to risk-weighted assets (as defined).
Management reviews capital ratios on a regular basis to ensure that capital exceeds the prescribed regulatory minimums and is adequate to meet our anticipated future needs. As of December 31, 2021, the most recent regulatory notifications from the Federal Reserve 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 would have changed the category.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
The following is a summary of actual capital amounts and ratios as of the dates indicated, for the Company (assuming it was subject to regulatory capital requirements) and the Bank compared to the requirements for minimum capital adequacy and classification as Well Capitalized:
As of December 31, 2021
As of December 31, 2020
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
(Dollars in thousands)
Leverage Ratio
BayCom Corp
$
213,787
9.60
%
$
201,519
9.58
%
Minimum requirement for "Well Capitalized"
111,349
5.00
%
105,225
5.00
%
Minimum regulatory requirement
89,079
4.00
%
84,180
4.00
%
United Business Bank
250,624
10.87
%
224,169
10.18
%
Minimum requirement for "Well Capitalized"
115,295
5.00
%
110,136
5.00
%
Minimum regulatory requirement
92,236
4.00
%
88,109
4.00
%
Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio
BayCom Corp
213,787
12.31
%
201,519
12.78
%
Minimum requirement for "Well Capitalized"
112,856
6.50
%
102,472
6.50
%
Minimum regulatory requirement
78,131
4.50
%
70,942
4.50
%
United Business Bank
250,624
14.60
%
224,169
14.22
%
Minimum requirement for "Well Capitalized"
111,543
6.50
%
102,440
6.50
%
Minimum regulatory requirement
77,222
4.50
%
70,920
4.50
%
Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital Ratio
BayCom Corp
223,272
12.86
%
211,004
13.38
%
Minimum requirement for "Well Capitalized"
138,900
8.00
%
126,120
8.00
%
Minimum regulatory requirement
104,175
6.00
%
94,590
6.00
%
United Business Bank
250,624
14.60
%
224,169
14.22
%
Minimum requirement for "Well Capitalized"
137,283
8.00
%
126,080
8.00
%
Minimum regulatory requirement
102,962
6.00
%
94,560
6.00
%
Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio
BayCom Corp
306,287
17.64
%
293,919
18.64
%
Minimum requirement for “Well Capitalized”
173,625
10.00
%
157,650
10.00
%
Minimum regulatory requirement
138,900
8.00
%
126,120
8.00
%
United Business Bank
268,639
15.65
%
242,084
15.36
%
Minimum requirement for "Well Capitalized"
171,604
10.00
%
157,600
10.00
%
Minimum regulatory requirement
137,283
8.00
%
126,080
8.00
%
In addition to the minimum CET1 capital, Tier 1 capital, leverage ratio and total capital ratios, the Bank must maintain a capital conservation buffer consisting of additional CET1 capital greater than 2.5% of risk-weighted assets above the required minimum risk-based capital levels in order to avoid limitations on paying dividends, repurchasing shares, and paying discretionary bonuses.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
20. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In the ordinary course of business, the Company may enter into transactions with related parties, including Directors, shareholders, officers and their associates. These transactions are on substantially the same terms, including rates and collateral, as loans to unrelated parties and do not involve more than normal risk of collection.
The following is a summary of the aggregate loan activity involving related party borrowers for the dates indicated:
December 31,
December 31,
Beginning of the year
$
16,017
$
19,329
Disbursements
18,438
Amounts paid
(874)
(4,261)
End of year
$
33,581
$
16,017
Undisbursed commitments to related parties
$
5,679
$
At December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company had deposits with directors, officers and their associates which totaled approximately $39.8 million and $59.1 million, respectively.
21. OTHER EXPENSES
For the dates indicated, other expenses consisted of the following:
December 31,
December 31,
December 31,
Professional fees
$
2,123
$
2,573
$
2,532
Core deposit premium amortization
1,813
1,832
1,624
Marketing and promotions
1,250
Stationery and supplies
Insurance (including FDIC premiums)
Communication and postage
Loan default related expense
Director fees
Bank service charges
Courier expense
Other
Total
$
8,419
$
9,268
$
9,147
The Company expenses marketing and promotions costs as they are incurred. Advertising expense included in marketing and promotions totaled $71,000, $194,000 and $261,000 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
22. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement,” defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value including a three-level valuation hierarchy, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date reflecting assumptions that a market participant would use when pricing an asset or liability. The hierarchy uses three levels of inputs to measure the fair value of assets and liabilities as follows:
Level 1 - Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.
Level 2 - Observable prices in active markets for similar assets and liabilities; prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; directly observable market inputs for substantially the full term of the asset and liability; market inputs that are not directly observable but are derived from or corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3 - Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability.
We use fair value to measure certain assets and liabilities on a recurring basis, primarily securities available-for-sale. For assets measured at the lower of cost or fair value, the fair value measurement criteria may or may not be met during a reporting period and such measurements are therefore considered “nonrecurring” for purposes of disclosing our fair value measurements. Fair value is used on a nonrecurring basis to adjust carrying values for impaired loans and other real estate owned and also to record impairment on certain assets, such as goodwill, core deposit intangible, and other long-lived assets.
In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the hierarchy. In such cases, the lowest level of inputs that is significant to the measurement is used for to determine the hierarch for the entire asset or liability. Transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy are recognized on the actual date of the event or circumstances that caused the transfer, which generally coincides with our quarterly valuation process. There were no transfers between levels during 2021 or 2020.
The following assets are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at the dates indicated:
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
December 31, 2021
U.S. Government Agencies
$
1,914
$
-
$
1,914
$
-
Preferred equity securities
18,777
18,777
-
-
Municipal securities
24,123
-
24,123
-
Mortgage-backed securities
34,692
-
34,692
-
Collateralized mortgage obligations
27,506
-
27,506
-
SBA securities
6,088
-
6,088
-
Corporate bonds
61,335
-
61,335
-
Total
$
174,435
$
18,777
$
155,658
$
-
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
December 31, 2020
U.S. Government Agencies
$
5,544
$
-
$
5,544
$
-
Municipal securities
16,687
-
16,687
-
Mortgage-backed securities
36,578
-
36,578
-
Collateralized mortgage obligations
27,695
-
27,695
-
SBA securities
7,667
-
7,667
-
Corporate bonds
21,419
-
21,419
-
Total
$
115,590
$
-
$
115,590
$
-
The following assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of the dates indicated:
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
December 31, 2021
Performing impaired loans
$
$
-
$
-
$
Nonperforming impaired loans
6,888
-
-
6,888
OREO
-
-
Total
$
7,714
$
-
$
-
$
7,714
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
December 31, 2020
Performing impaired loans
$
$
-
$
-
$
Nonperforming impaired loans
8,421
-
-
8,421
OREO
-
-
Total
$
9,648
$
-
$
-
$
9,648
The Company does not record loans at fair value on a recurring basis. However, from time to time, a loan may be considered impaired and an allowance for loan losses is established. Loans for which it is probable that payment of interest and principal will not be made in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan agreement are considered impaired. The fair value of impaired loans is estimated using one of several methods, including collateral value, market value of similar debt, enterprise and liquidation value and discounted cash flows. Those impaired loans not requiring an allowance represent loans for which the fair value of the expected repayments or collateral exceed the recorded investments in such loans. When the fair value of the collateral is based on an observable market price or a current appraised value which uses substantially observable data, the Company records the impaired loan as nonrecurring Level 2. When an appraised value is not available or management determines the fair value of the collateral is further impaired below the appraised value or the appraised value contains a significant assumption and there is no observable market price, the Company records the impaired loan as nonrecurring Level 3.
The Company records OREO at fair value on a nonrecurring basis based on the collateral value of the property. When the fair value of the collateral is based on an observable market price or a current appraised value which uses substantially observable data, the Company records the OREO as nonrecurring Level 2. When an appraised value is not available or management determines the fair value of the collateral is further impaired below the appraised value or the appraised value contains a significant assumption, and there is no observable market price, the Company records the impaired loan as nonrecurring Level 3. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by the appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. Management also incorporates assumptions regarding market trends or other relevant factors and selling and commission costs ranging from 5% to 7%. Such adjustments and assumptions are typically significant and result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
23. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value disclosure for financial instruments:
Cash and cash equivalents - Cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks and Fed funds sold, and are valued at their carrying amounts because of the short-term nature of these instruments.
Interest bearing deposits in banks - Interest bearing deposits in banks are valued based on quoted interest rates for comparable instruments with similar remaining maturities.
Investment securities - The fair value of available-for-sale securities are based on quoted market prices, where available. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are estimated using quoted market prices for similar securities and indications of value provides by brokers.
Investment in FHLB and FRB Stock - The carrying value of the FHLB and FRB stock approximates the fair value because the stock is redeemable at par.
Loans held for sale - Since the loans designated by the Company as available-for-sale are typically sold shortly after making the decision to sell them, realized gains and losses are usually recognized within the same period and fluctuations in fair value are thus not relevant for reporting purposes. If the available-for-sale loans stay on our books for an extended period of time, the fair value of those loans is determined using quoted secondary-market prices.
Loans-Loans with variable interest rates are valued at the current carrying value, because these loans are regularly adjusted to market rates. The fair value of fixed rate with remaining maturities in excess of one year is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using current rates at which similar loans would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings for the same remaining maturities. The allowance for loan losses is considered to be a reasonable estimate of the loan discount related to credit risk.
Interest receivable and payable - The accrued interest receivable and payable balance approximates its fair value.
Deposits - The fair value of noninterest bearing deposits, interest bearing transaction accounts and savings accounts is the amount payable on demand at the reporting date. The fair value of time deposits is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using current rates offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities.
Other borrowings - The fair value is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using current rates offered for similar borrowings. The discount rate is equal to the market rate of currently offered similar products. This is an adjustable rate borrowing and adjusts to market on a quarterly basis.
Junior Subordinated Deferrable Interest Debentures - The fair value of junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures is determined based on rates and/or discounted cash flow analysis using interest rates offered in inactive markets for instruments of a similar maturity and structure resulting in a Level 3 classification. The debenture carried at the current carrying value, because the debentures regularly adjusted to market rates.
Subordinated Debt - The fair value of subordinated debt is determined based on rates and/or discounted cash flow analysis using interest rates offered in inactive markets for instruments of a similar maturity and structure resulting in a Level 2 classification.
Undisbursed loan commitments and standby letters of credit - The fair value of the off-balance sheet items is based on discounted cash flows of expected funding.
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
The carrying amounts and fair values of the Company’s financial instruments at the dates indicated are presented below:
Carrying
Fair
Fair value measurements
amount
value
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
December 31, 2021
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
379,687
$
379,687
$
379,687
$
-
$
-
Interest bearing deposits in banks
3,585
3,585
3,585
-
-
Investment securities available-for-sale
174,435
174,435
18,777
155,658
-
Investment in FHLB and FRB Stock
16,035
16,035
16,035
-
-
Loans held for sale
6,470
6,470
-
6,470
-
Loans, net
1,647,190
1,659,811
-
-
1,659,811
Accrued interest receivable
5,929
5,929
-
5,929
-
Financial liabilities:
Deposits
1,985,239
1,986,651
-
1,986,651
-
Other borrowings
-
-
-
-
-
Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures, net
8,403
8,612
-
-
8,612
Subordinated debt, net
63,542
63,542
-
63,542
-
Accrued interest payable
1,180
1,180
-
1,180
-
Off-balance sheet liabilities:
Undisbursed loan commitments, lines of credit, standby letters of credit
104,139
103,824
-
-
103,824
Carrying
Fair
Fair value measurements
amount
value
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
December 31, 2020
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
299,329
$
299,329
$
299,329
$
-
$
-
Interest bearing deposits in banks
7,718
7,718
7,718
-
-
Investment securities available-for-sale
111,809
115,590
-
115,590
-
Investment in FHLB and FRB Stock
15,342
15,342
15,342
-
-
Loans held for sale
8,664
8,664
-
8,664
-
Loans, net
1,625,812
1,658,605
-
-
1,658,605
Accrued interest receivable
7,312
7,312
-
7,312
-
Financial liabilities:
Deposits
1,838,397
1,839,973
-
1,839,973
-
Other borrowings
5,000
5,000
-
5,000
-
Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures, net
8,322
8,124
-
-
8,124
Subordinated debt, net
63,372
63,372
-
63,372
-
Accrued interest payable
1,401
1,401
-
1,401
-
Off-balance sheet liabilities:
Undisbursed loan commitments, lines of credit, standby letters of credit
110,702
110,287
-
-
110,287
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
24. PARENT COMPANY ONLY
BAYCOM CORP
BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 2021 and 2020
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks
$
15,879
$
49,450
Investment securities available-for-sale
18,777
-
Investment in bank subsidiary
299,126
275,198
Interest receivable and other assets
1,845
Total assets
$
335,627
$
325,357
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures, net
$
8,403
$
8,322
Subordinated debt, net
63,542
63,372
Interest payable and other liabilities
1,075
1,072
Total liabilities
73,020
72,766
Shareholders' equity
Preferred stock, no par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding at both December 31, 2021 and 2020
-
-
Common stock, no par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 10,680,386 and 11,295,397 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively
157,098
167,242
Additional paid in capital
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax
2,166
2,697
Retained earnings
103,056
82,365
Total shareholders' equity
262,607
252,591
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
$
335,627
$
325,357
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
BAYCOM CORP
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019
Income:
Interest income
$
$
$
Earnings from bank subsidiary
23,071
15,216
17,528
Dividends from statutory trusts
Gain on sale of securities
-
-
Total income
23,740
15,297
17,756
Expense:
Subordinated debt
3,582
1,405
-
Other borrowings
Total Interest expense
3,927
1,908
Noninterest expense
Total expense
4,084
2,271
Income before provision for income taxes
19,656
13,026
17,134
Income tax benefit
(1,035)
(700)
(184)
Net income
$
20,691
$
13,726
$
17,318
BAYCOM CORP AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Tables in thousands, except for share and per share data)
BAYCOM CORP
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
$
20,691
$
13,726
$
17,318
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Income from bank subsidiary
(23,376)
(15,429)
(17,732)
Dividend from bank subsidiary
-
18,740
20,200
Depreciation of furniture, fixtures and equipment
-
-
Gain on sale of securities
(41)
-
-
Income tax benefit
(1,035)
(700)
(184)
Accretion of premiums/discounts on investment securities
-
-
Accretion on junior subordinated debentures
Stock-based compensation expense
Decrease in interest receivable and other assets
(230)
2,825
Increase (decrease) in interest payable and other liabilities
(24)
Net cash provided by operating activities
(3,690)
20,245
20,574
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital contribution to subsidiary
(1,400)
(2,654)
(34,543)
Purchase from sale of investment securities
(18,330)
-
-
Net cash paid for acquisitions
-
(13,886)
(57,998)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
(19,730)
(16,540)
(92,541)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of junior subordinated debentures
-
(1,575)
-
Proceeds from issuance of subordinated debt, net
-
63,372
-
Increase in other borrowings
-
6,000
-
Repayment of other borrowings
-
(6,000)
-
Restricted stock issued
1,400
1,449
1,128
Issuance of shares
-
-
44,598
Repurchase of common stock
(11,551)
(18,257)
(10,957)
Proceeds from initial public offering, net
-
-
-
Net cash provided by financing activities
(10,151)
44,989
34,769
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
(33,571)
48,694
(37,198)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
49,450
37,954
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
15,879
$
49,450
$

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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.
Item 9(A). Controls and Procedures.
(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures:
An evaluation of the disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 13a 15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) was carried out as of December 31, 2021 under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) and several other members of the Company’s senior management. In designing and evaluating the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that disclosure controls and procedures, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the disclosure controls and procedures are met. Additionally, in designing disclosure controls and procedures, management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible disclosure controls and procedures. The design of any disclosure controls and procedures also is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions.
The Company’s CEO and CFO concluded that based on their evaluation at December 31, 2021, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective in ensuring that information we are required to disclose in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (1) recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and (2) accumulated and communicated to BayCom Corp’s management, including its CEO and CFO, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure, specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.
(b) Internal Control over Financial Reporting:
The management of BayCom Corp is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). 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 the financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (iii) 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. A control procedure, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Also, because of the inherent limitations in all control procedures, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. Additionally, in designing disclosure controls and procedures, our management was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible disclosure controls and procedures. The design of any disclosure controls and procedures is also based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. As a result of these inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Furthermore, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Our management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2021. In making this assessment, it used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013). Based on our assessment, we concluded that, as of December 31, 2021, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.
(c) Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2021, that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.
This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company’s registered public accounting firm. We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act. For as long as we continue to be an emerging growth company, we may take advantage of exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies. As a result, for the year ended December 31, 2021 we were not required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

---

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

---

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

---

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance
Directors and Executive Officers
Information concerning the Company’s directors is incorporated herein by reference from the Company's definitive proxy statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in June 2022, a copy of which will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after the close of the fiscal year.
Information concerning the executive officers of the Company and the Bank is contained under the heading “Executive Officers” under Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-K and is incorporated herein by reference.
Code of Ethics
We have adopted a code of business conduct and ethics that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, and person performing similar functions, and to all of our other employees and our directors. You may obtain a copy of the code of business conduct and ethics free of charge by writing to the Corporate Secretary of BayCom Corp, 500 Ygnacio Valley Road, Suite 200, Walnut Creek, California, 94596, or by calling 925-476-1800. In addition, the code of business conduct and ethics is available on our website at www.unitedbusinessbank.com under “About Us - Investor Information”.
Corporate Governance
Nomination Procedures. There have been no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the Company’s Board of Directors.
Audit Committee Matters and Audit Committee Financial Expert. The Board of Directors of the Company has a standing Audit Committee, which has been established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act. The Audit Committee operates under a formal written charter adopted by the Board of Directors. The members of that committee currently consist of Directors Kendall, Chaudhary, Hotchkiss and Laverne, each of whom was considered independent under Nasdaq listing standards. The Board of Directors has determined that Mr. Chaudhary is an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in applicable SEC rules. All members of the Audit Committee (i) are independent as defined under Rule 4200(a)(15) of the Nasdaq Marketplace Rules; (ii) meet the criteria for independence set forth in SEC Rule 10A-3(b)(1); (iii) have not participated in the preparation of the financial statements of the Company or any of its current subsidiaries at any time during the past three years; and (iv) are able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including our balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement.
Additional information concerning the Audit Committee is incorporated herein by reference from the Company's definitive proxy statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in June 2022 (except for information contained under the heading "Report of the Audit Committee"), a copy of which will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after the close of the fiscal year.

---

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Item 11. Executive Compensation
Information concerning executive compensation is incorporated herein by reference from the Company's definitive proxy statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in June 2022, a copy of which will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after the close of the fiscal year.

---

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
Information concerning security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management is incorporated herein by reference from the Company's definitive proxy statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in June 2022, a copy of which will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after the close of the fiscal year.
The Company is not aware of any arrangements, including any pledge by any person of securities of the Company, the operation of which may at a subsequent date result in a change in control of the Company
The following table sets forth information as of December 31, 2021 with respect to the Company’s equity compensation plans, all of which were approved by the Company’s shareholders:
Number of securities
Number of securities to
Weighted-average
remaining available for
be issued upon exercise
exercise price of
future issuance under
of outstanding options,
outstanding options,
equity compensation
Plan category
warrants, and rights
warrants, and rights
plans (1)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders
-
$
-
117,322
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders
-
-
-
Total
-
$
-
117,322
(1) All of the shares reported are available for future issuance other than upon the exercise of an option, warrant, or right.

---

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Information concerning certain relationships and related transactions, our independent directors and our audit and nominating committee charters is incorporated herein by reference from the Company's definitive proxy statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in June 2022, a copy of which will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after the close of the fiscal year.

---

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
Information concerning principal accountant fees and services is incorporated herein by reference from the Company's definitive proxy statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in June 2022, a copy of which will be filed with the SEC not later than 120 days after the close of the fiscal year.
PART IV

---

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
(a) The following documents are filed as a part of this report:
(1) Financial Statements: The Consolidated Financial Statements are included in Part II. “Item. 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.
(2) Financial Statements Schedules: All schedules are omitted because they are not required or applicable, or the required information is shown in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes.
(3) Exhibits: Included in schedule below.
Exhibit
Number
Description
2.1
Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between BayCom Corp and Pacific Enterprise Bancorp dated September 7, 2021(1)
3.1
Articles of Incorporation of BayCom Corp(2)
3.2
Amended and Restated Bylaws of BayCom Corp(3)
4.1
Form of common stock certificate of BayCom Corp(2)
4.2
Description of BayCom Corp’s Securities(4)
4.3
Indenture, date August 6, 2020, between BayCom Corp and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee(5)
4.4
First Supplemental Indenture, dated August 6, 2020, between BayCom Corp and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee(5)
4.5
Form of 5.25% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Note due 2030 (included in Exhibit 4.2)(5)
10.1+
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated March 5, 2021, among BayCom Corp, United Business Bank and George Guarini(6)
10.2+
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated March 5, 2021, among BayCom Corp, United Business Bank and Janet King(6)
10.3+
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated March 5, 2021, among BayCom Corp, United Business Bank and Keary Colwell(6)
10.4+
Amended and Restated Executive Supplemental Compensation Agreement, dated February 20, 2018, between United Business Bank and George J. Guarini(2)
10.5+
Amended and Restated Executive Supplemental Compensation Agreement, dated February 20, 2018, between United Business Bank and Janet King(2)
10.6+
Amended and Restated Executive Supplemental Compensation Agreement, dated February 20, 2018, between United Business Bank and Keary Colwell.(2)
Exhibit
Number
Description
10.7+
Amended and Restated Joint Beneficiary Agreement between United Business Bank and George Guarini(2)
10.8+
Bay Commercial Bank 2014 Equity Incentive Plan(2)
10.9+
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement under the Bay Commercial Bank 2014 Equity Incentive Plan(2)
10.10+
BayCom Corp Amended and Restated 2017 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan(2)
10.11+
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement under the BayCom Corp Amended and Restated 2017 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan(2)
10.12+
Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement under the BayCom Corp Amended and Restated 2017 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan(2)
10.13+
Form of Incentive Stock Option Agreement under the BayCom Corp Amended and Restated 2017 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan(2)
10.14+
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement under the BayCom Corp Amended and Restated 2017 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan(2)
10.15+
Joint Beneficiary Agreement between United Business Bank and Janet King(2)
10.16+
Joint Beneficiary Agreement between United Business Bank and Keary Colwell(2)
10.17+
Joint Beneficiary Agreement between United Business Bank and Mary Therese Curley(7)
10.18+
Summary of Annual Incentive Bonus program(8)
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics(9)
Subsidiaries of the Registrant(10)
23.1
Consent of Moss Adams LLP
Power of Attorney (set forth on signature page).
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
The following materials from the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 formatted in Extensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (1) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets; (2) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income; (3) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income; (4) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity; (5) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; and (6) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Cover Page Interactive Data File - (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)
+Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
(1) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 8, 2021 (File No. 001-38483).
(2) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on April 11, 2018 (File No. 333-224236).
(3) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 17, 2020 (File No. 001-38483).
(4) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 (File No. 001-38433).
(5) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 10, 2020 (File No. 001-38483).
(6) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 9, 2021 (File No. 001-38483).
(7) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the ended June 30, 2018, filed on August 14, 2018 (File No. 001-38433).
(8) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the ended March 31, 2021, filed on May 13, 2021 (File No. 001-38433).
(9) Registrant elects to satisfy Regulation S-K §229.406(c) by posting its Code of Ethics on its website at www.unitedbusinessbank.com in the section titled About Us - Investor Information.
(10) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 21 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 (File No. 001-38433).