EDGAR 10-K Filing

Company CIK: 906465
Filing Year: 2024
Filename: 906465_10-K_2024_0001558370-24-002208.json

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ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Item 1. Business
General. QCR Holdings, Inc. is a multi-bank holding company headquartered in Moline, Illinois, that was formed in February 1993 under the laws of the state of Delaware. In 2016, the Company elected to operate as a financial holding company under the BHCA. The Company serves the Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, Waterloo/Cedar Falls, Des Moines/Ankeny and Springfield communities through the following four wholly-owned banking subsidiaries (collectively, the “Banks”), which provide full-service commercial and consumer banking and trust and asset management services:
● Quad City Bank & Trust (QCBT), which is based in Bettendorf, Iowa, and commenced operations in 1994;
● Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust (CRBT), which is based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and commenced operations in 2001;
● Community State Bank (CSB), which is based in Ankeny, Iowa, and was acquired in 2016; and
● Guaranty Bank (GB), which is based in Springfield, Missouri, and was acquired in 2018.
On April 1, 2022, the Company completed its acquisition of GFED and on April 2, 2022 merged Guaranty Bank into SFCB, the Company’s Springfield-based charter. The combined bank changed its name to Guaranty Bank.
See Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion on mergers, acquisitions and sales.
The Company engages in direct financing lease contracts and equipment financing agreements through m2, a wholly owned subsidiary of QCBT based in Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Subsidiary Banks. Segments of the Company have been established by management as defined by the structure of the Company’s internal organization, focusing on the financial information that the Company’s operating decision-makers routinely use to make decisions about operating matters. The Company’s Commercial Banking business is geographically divided by markets into the operating segments corresponding to the four subsidiary banks wholly owned by the Company: QCBT, CRBT, CSB and GB. See the Consolidated Financial Statements incorporated herein generally, and Note 23 to the Consolidated Financial Statements specifically, for additional business segment information.
QCBT was capitalized on October 13, 1993, and commenced operations on January 7, 1994. QCBT is an Iowa-chartered commercial bank that is a member of the Federal Reserve System. QCBT provides full service commercial, correspondent, and consumer banking and trust and asset management services in the Quad Cities and adjacent communities through its five offices located in Bettendorf and Davenport, Iowa and in Moline, Illinois. QCBT, on a consolidated basis with m2, had total segment assets of $2.45 billion and $2.31 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
CRBT is an Iowa-chartered commercial bank that is a member of the Federal Reserve System. The Company commenced operations in Cedar Rapids in June 2001, operating as a branch of QCBT. The Cedar Rapids branch operation then began functioning under the CRBT charter in September of 2001. Acquired branches of CNB operate as a division of CRBT under the name “Community Bank & Trust.” CRBT provides full-service commercial and consumer banking and trust and asset management services to Cedar Rapids, Marion and Waterloo/Cedar Falls, Iowa and adjacent communities through its eight facilities. The headquarters for CRBT is located in downtown Cedar Rapids with three other branches located in Cedar Rapids, one branch in Marion, two branches located in Waterloo and one branch located in Cedar Falls. CRBT had total segment assets of $2.42 billion and $2.19 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
CSB is an Iowa-chartered commercial bank that is a member of the Federal Reserve System. CSB was acquired by the Company in 2016. CSB provides full-service commercial and consumer banking to Des Moines, Iowa and adjacent communities through its headquarters located in Ankeny, Iowa and its eight other branch facilities throughout the greater Des Moines area. CSB had total segment assets of $1.43 billion and $1.30 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
GB is a Missouri-chartered commercial bank that is a member of the Federal Reserve System. GB, formerly known as Springfield First Community Bank, was acquired by the Company in 2018 through a merger with Springfield Bancshares. On April 2, 2022, GFED was merged into the Company and GFED’s wholly-owned bank subsidiary was merged into GB, expanding GB’s footprint in southwest Missouri. GB provides full-service commercial and consumer banking to the Springfield and Joplin, Missouri area and adjacent communities through its headquarters located in Springfield, Missouri and its 13 other branch facilities throughout the greater Springfield and Joplin area. GB had total segment assets of $2.28 billion and $2.15 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Other Operating Subsidiaries. m2, which is based in Waukesha, Wisconsin, is engaged in the business of lending and leasing machinery and equipment to C&I businesses under direct financing lease contracts and equipment financing agreements.
Trust Preferred Subsidiaries. Following is a listing of the Company’s non-consolidated subsidiaries formed for the issuance of trust preferred securities, including pertinent information as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Amount Outstanding
Amount Outstanding
Interest
Interest
as of
as of
Rate as of
Rate as of
Name
Date Issued
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Interest Rate
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
QCR Holdings Statutory Trust II
February 2004
$
10,310
$
10,310
2.85% over 3-month SOFR
8.44
%
6.52
%
QCR Holdings Statutory Trust III
February 2004
8,248
8,248
2.85% over 3-month SOFR
8.44
%
6.52
%
QCR Holdings Statutory Trust V
February 2006
10,310
10,310
1.55% over 3-month SOFR
7.21
%
5.63
%
Community National Statutory Trust II
September 2004
3,093
3,093
2.17% over 3-month SOFR
7.80
%
6.92
%
Community National Statutory Trust III
March 2007
3,609
3,609
1.75% over 3-month SOFR
7.40
%
6.52
%
Guaranty Bankshares Statutory Trust I
May 2005
4,640
4,640
1.75% over 3-month SOFR
7.40
%
6.52
%
Guaranty Statutory Trust II*
December 2005
10,310
10,310
1.45% over 3-month SOFR
7.09
%
6.14
%
$
50,520
$
50,520
Weighted Average Rate
7.70
%
6.29
%
* Assumed in acquisition of GFED.
Securities issued by all of the trusts listed above mature 30 years from the date of issuance, but are all currently callable at par at any time. Interest rate reset dates vary by trust.
Business. The Company’s principal business consists of attracting deposits and investing those deposits in loans/leases and securities. The deposits of the subsidiary banks are insured to the maximum amount allowable by the FDIC. The Company’s results of operations are dependent primarily on net interest income, which is the difference between the interest earned on its loans/leases and securities and the interest paid on deposits and borrowings. The Company’s operating results are affected by economic and competitive conditions, particularly changes in interest rates, government policies and the actions of regulatory authorities, as described more fully in this Form 10-K, including in Appendix A “Supervision and Regulation.” Its operating results also can be affected by trust fees, investment advisory and management fees, deposit service charge fees, capital markets revenue, gains on the sale of residential real estate and government guaranteed loans, earnings from BOLI and other noninterest income. Operating expenses include employee compensation and benefits, occupancy and equipment expense, professional and data processing fees, advertising and marketing expenses, bank service charges, FDIC and other insurance, loan/lease expenses and other administrative expenses.
The Company and its subsidiaries collectively employed 996 and 973 FTEs at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The Federal Reserve is the primary federal regulator of the Company, QCBT, CRBT, CSB and GB. QCBT, CRBT and CSB are also regulated by the Iowa Division of Banking and GB is regulated by the Missouri Division of Finance.
The FDIC, as administrator of the DIF, also has regulatory authority over the subsidiary banks. See Appendix A “Supervision and Regulation” for more information on the federal and state statutes and regulations that are applicable to the Company and its subsidiaries.
Lending/Leasing. The Company and its subsidiaries provide a broad range of commercial and retail lending/leasing and investment services to corporations, partnerships, individuals, and government agencies. The subsidiary banks actively market their services to qualified lending and deposit clients. Officers actively solicit the business of new clients entering their market areas as well as long-standing members of the local business community. The Company has an established lending/leasing policy which includes a number of underwriting factors to be considered in making a loan/lease, including, but not limited to, location, loan-to-value ratio, cash flow, collateral and the credit history of the borrower.
In accordance with Iowa regulation, the legal lending limit to one borrower for QCBT, CRBT and CSB, calculated as 15% of aggregate capital, was $43.0 million, $55.9 million, and $26.6 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2023. In accordance with Missouri regulation, the legal lending limit to one borrower for GB, calculated as 15% of aggregate capital, totaled $40.2 million as of December 31, 2023.
The Company recognizes the need to prevent excessive concentrations of credit exposure to any one borrower or group of related borrowers. As such, the Company has established an in-house lending limit, which is lower than each subsidiary bank’s legal lending limit, in an effort to manage individual borrower exposure levels.
The in-house lending limit is the maximum amount of credit each subsidiary bank will extend to a single borrowing entity or group of related entities. The Company implements a tiered approach, based on the risk rating of the borrower. Under the most recent in-house limit, total credit exposure to a single borrowing entity or group of related entities will not exceed the following, subject to certain exceptions:
High Quality
Medium Quality
Low Quality
(Risk Ratings 1-3)
(Risk Rating 4)
(Risk Ratings 5-8)
(dollars in thousands)
QCBT
$
21,500
$
18,000
$
12,500
CRBT
$
21,500
$
18,000
$
12,500
CSB
$
12,000
$
10,500
$
7,000
GB
$
21,500
$
18,000
$
12,500
QCRH Consolidated
$
32,000
$
25,500
$
15,500
The QCRH Consolidated amount represents the maximum amount of credit that all affiliated banks, when combined, will extend to a single borrowing entity or group of related entities, subject to certain exceptions.
In addition, m2’s in-house lending limit is $2.5 million to a single lending/leasing entity or group of related entities, subject to certain exceptions.
As part of the loan monitoring activity at the four subsidiary banks, credit administration personnel interact closely with senior bank management. For example, the internal loan committee of each subsidiary bank meets weekly. The Company has a separate in-house loan review function to analyze credits of the subsidiary banks. To complement the in-house loan review, an independent third-party performs external loan reviews. Historically, management has attempted to identify problem loans at an early stage and to aggressively seek a resolution of those situations.
The Company recognizes that a diversified loan/lease portfolio contributes to reducing risk in the overall loan/lease portfolio. The specific loan/lease portfolio mix is subject to change based on loan/lease demand, the business environment and various economic factors. The Company actively monitors concentrations within the loan/lease portfolio to ensure appropriate diversification and concentration risk is maintained.
Specifically, each subsidiary bank’s total loans as a percentage of average assets may not exceed 85%. In addition, following are established policy limits and the actual allocations for the subsidiary banks as of December 31, 2023 for the loan portfolio organized by loan type, reflected as a percentage of the subsidiary bank’s gross loans:
QCBT
CRBT
CSB
GB
Maximum
Maximum
Maximum
Maximum
Percentage
As of
Percentage
As of
Percentage
As of
Percentage
As of
per Loan
December 31,
per Loan
December 31,
per Loan
December 31,
per Loan
December 31,
Type of Loan *
Policy***
Policy***
Policy***
Policy***
One-to-four family residential
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
Multi-family
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
Farmland
%
%
%
-
%
%
%
%
%
Non-farm, nonresidential
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
Construction and land development
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
C&I
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
Loans to individuals
%
%
%
-
%
%
-
%
%
%
Lease financing
%
%
%
-
%
%
-
%
%
-
%
Bank stock loans
**
-
%
-
%
%
-
%
%
-
%
All other loans
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
* The loan types above are as defined and reported in the subsidiary banks’ quarterly Reports of Condition and Income (also known as Call Reports).
** QCBT’s maximum percentage for bank stock loans is 150% of risk-based capital (bank stock loan commitments are limited to 200% of risk-based capital). At December 31, 2023, QCBT’s bank stock loans totaled 36% of risk-based capital.
*** Policy limits are compared to average loan balances rather than the current balance for monitoring purposes.
The following table presents total loans/leases by major loan/lease type and subsidiary as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Residential real estate loans held for sale are included in residential real estate loans below.
Consolidated
QCBT
CRBT
CSB
GB
Total
$
%
$
%
$
%
$
%
$
%
(dollars in thousands)
As of December 31, 2023
C&I - revolving
$
87,872
%
$
97,521
%
$
66,266
%
$
73,584
%
$
325,243
%
C&I - other
642,722
%
435,543
%
173,912
%
229,601
%
1,481,778
%
CRE - owner occupied
150,153
%
147,138
%
81,241
%
228,833
%
607,365
%
CRE - non-owner occupied
180,415
%
221,333
%
179,411
%
427,733
%
1,008,892
%
Construction and land development
395,851
%
334,479
%
327,720
%
362,475
%
1,420,525
%
Multi-family
244,910
%
354,259
%
166,978
%
229,996
%
996,143
%
Direct financing leases
31,164
%
-
-
%
-
-
%
-
-
%
31,164
-
%
1-4 family real estate
212,408
%
89,980
%
87,741
%
154,842
%
544,971
%
Consumer
38,184
%
18,194
%
15,993
%
54,964
%
127,335
%
$
1,983,679
%
$
1,698,447
%
$
1,099,262
%
$
1,762,028
%
%
$
6,543,416
%
As of December 31, 2022
C&I - revolving
$
63,071
%
$
111,319
%
$
54,323
%
$
68,156
%
$
296,869
%
C&I - other
640,472
%
453,829
%
168,816
%
188,576
%
1,451,693
%
CRE - owner occupied
145,528
%
144,399
%
66,890
%
272,550
%
629,367
%
CRE - non-owner occupied
166,349
%
216,756
%
163,960
%
416,174
%
963,239
%
Construction and land development
283,088
%
290,282
%
326,811
%
291,880
%
1,192,061
%
Multi-family
274,991
%
334,408
%
127,184
%
227,220
%
963,803
%
Direct financing leases
31,889
%
-
-
%
-
-
%
-
-
%
31,889
%
1-4 family real estate
191,753
%
76,842
%
66,145
%
164,789
%
499,529
%
Consumer
31,126
%
17,154
%
14,241
%
47,900
%
110,421
%
$
1,828,267
%
$
1,644,989
%
$
988,370
%
$
1,677,245
%
$
6,138,871
%
Proper pricing of loans is necessary to provide adequate return to the Company’s stockholders. Loan pricing, as established with guidance from the subsidiary banks’ senior management and asset/liability management committees, includes consideration for the cost of funds, loan maturity and risk, origination and maintenance costs, appropriate stockholder return, competitive factors, and the economic environment. The portfolio contains a mix of loans with fixed and floating interest rates. Management attempts to maximize the use of interest rate floors on its variable rate loan portfolio. Refer to “Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” for more discussion on the Company’s management of interest rate risk.
In an effort to manage interest rate risk, the subsidiary banks will consider entering into back-to-back interest rate swaps with select commercial borrowers. The interest rate swaps allow the commercial borrowers to pay a fixed interest rate while the banks receive a variable interest rate as well as an upfront nonrefundable fee dependent on the pricing. The banks enter an interest rate swap with the commercial borrower and an equal and offsetting interest rate
swap with a larger financial institution counterparty. The Company has increased its focus on this business which has led to significantly increased noninterest income, stronger overall loan growth, and improved management of its interest rate risk. The Company will continue to review opportunities to execute these swaps at all of its subsidiary banks, as the circumstances are appropriate for the borrower and the Company. An optimal interest rate swap candidate must be of a certain size and sophistication which can lead to volatility in activity from year to year. Future levels of swap fee income can be somewhat dependent upon prevailing interest rates and other market activity.
C&I Lending
As noted above, the subsidiary banks are active C&I lenders. The current areas of emphasis include loans to small and mid-sized businesses with a wide range of operations such as wholesalers, manufacturers, building contractors, business services companies, other banks, and retailers. The subsidiary banks provide a wide range of business loans, including lines of credit for working capital and operational purposes, and term loans for the acquisition of facilities, equipment and other purposes. Since 2010, the subsidiary banks have been active in participating in lending programs offered by the SBA and USDA. Under these programs, the government entities will generally provide a guarantee of repayment ranging from 50% to 85% of the principal amount of the qualifying loan.
Loan approval is generally based on the following factors:
● Ability and stability of current management of the borrower;
● Stable earnings with positive financial trends;
● Sufficient cash flow to support debt repayment;
● Earnings projections based on reasonable assumptions;
● Financial strength of the industry and business; and
● Value and marketability of collateral.
For C&I loans, the Company assigns internal risk ratings which are largely dependent upon the aforementioned approval factors. The risk rating is reviewed annually or on an as needed basis depending on the specific circumstances of the loan. See Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information, including the internal risk rating scale.
As part of the underwriting process, management reviews current borrower financial statements. When appropriate, certain C&I loans may contain covenants requiring maintenance of financial performance ratios such as, but not limited to:
● Minimum debt service coverage ratio;
● Minimum current ratio;
● Maximum debt to tangible net worth ratio; and/or
● Minimum tangible net worth.
Establishment of these financial performance ratios depends on a number of factors, including risk rating and the specific industry in which the borrower is engaged.
Collateral for these loans generally includes accounts receivable, inventory and equipment. The Company’s lending policy specifies approved collateral types and corresponding maximum advance percentages. The value of collateral pledged on loans must exceed the loan amount by a margin sufficient to absorb potential erosion of its value in the event of foreclosure and cover the loan amount plus costs incurred to convert it to cash. Approved non-real estate collateral types and corresponding maximum advance percentages for each collateral type are listed below.
Approved Collateral Type
Maximum Advance %
Financial Instruments
U.S. Government Securities
90% of market value
Securities of Federal Agencies
90% of market value
Municipal Bonds rated by Moody’s As “A” or better
80% of market value
Listed Stocks
75% of market value
Mutual Funds
75% of market value
Cash Value Life Insurance
95%, less policy loans
Savings/Time Deposits (Bank)
100% of current value
Penny Stocks
0%
General Business
Accounts Receivable
80% of eligible accounts
Inventory
50% of value
Crop and Grain Inventories
80% of current market value
Livestock
80% of purchase price, or current market value; or higher if cross-collateralized with other assets
Fixed Assets (Existing)
50% of net book value, or 75% of orderly liquidation appraised value
Fixed Assets (New)
80% of cost, or higher if cross-collateralized with other assets
Leasehold Improvements
0%
Generally, if the above collateral is part of a cross-collateralization with other approved assets, then the maximum advance percentage may be higher.
The Company’s lending policy specifies maximum term limits for C&I loans. For term loans, the maximum term is generally seven years. Generally, term loans range from three to five years. For lines of credit, the maximum term is typically 365 days.
In addition, the subsidiary banks often take personal guarantees or cosigners to help assure repayment. Loans may be made on an unsecured basis if warranted by the overall financial condition of the borrower.
The following is a summary of the five largest industry concentrations within the C&I portfolio as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Amount
Amount
(dollars in thousands)
Lessors of residential buildings and dwellings
$
235,883
$
309,784
Solar electric power generation
115,862
35,947
Bank holding companies
109,966
74,980
Administration of urban planning and rural development
109,696
102,918
Construction and mining (except oil well) machinery and
equipment merchant wholesalers
60,413
21,931
These loan categories are defined by industry-standard NAICS codes - refer to NAICS.com for a description of each category.
CRE Lending
The subsidiary banks also make CRE loans. CRE loans are subject to underwriting standards and processes similar to C&I loans, in addition to those standards and processes specific to real estate loans. Collateral for these loans generally includes the underlying real estate and improvements and may include additional assets of the borrower. The
Company’s lending policy specifies maximum loan-to-value limits based on the category of CRE (commercial real estate loans on improved property, raw land, land development, and commercial construction). These limits are the same limits as, or in some situations, more conservative than, those established by regulatory authorities. The Company reviews CRE concentrations by industry in relation to risk-based capital on a quarterly basis. The following is a listing of these limits as well as some of the other guidelines included in the Company’s lending policy for the major categories of CRE loans:
Maximum
CRE Loan Types
Maximum Advance Rate **
Term
CRE loans on improved property *
80%
7 years***
Raw land
Lesser of 90% of project cost, or 65% of "as is" appraised value
12 months
Land development
Lesser of 85% of project cost, or 75% of "as-completed" appraised value
24 months
Commercial construction loans
Lesser of 85% of project cost, or 80% of "as-completed" appraised value
24 months
Residential construction loans to builders****
Lesser of 90% of project cost, or 80% of "as-completed" appraised value
15 months
LIHTC construction loans
80%
3 years
LIHTC permanent loans
80%
20 years
* Generally, the debt service coverage ratio must be a minimum of 1.25x for non-owner occupied loans and 1.15x for owner-occupied loans that are subject to a DSCR covenant. For loans greater than $500 thousand, the subsidiary banks sensitize this ratio for deteriorated economic conditions, major changes in interest rates, and/or significant increases in vacancy rates.
** These maximum rates are consistent with, or in some situations, more conservative than those established by regulatory authorities.
*** Some real estate transactions may offer a swap option whereby the maximum term is 20 years.
**** Generally, the maximum term is 12 months but can be 15 months with credit risk committee monthly review.
The Company’s lending policy also includes guidelines for real estate appraisals and evaluations, including minimum appraisal and evaluation standards based on certain transactions. In addition, the subsidiary banks often take personal guarantees to help assure repayment.
Approximately 39% of the CRE portfolio is LIHTC loans. The Company has experienced no historical losses on the LIHTC portfolio and as of December 31, 2023, all LIHTC loans were performing and had a pass risk rating. Additionally, the Company has completed two securitizations of LIHTC loans to manage the Company’s CRE exposure. See Note 5 of the consolidated financial statements for more information on these securitizations.
In addition, management tracks the level of owner-occupied CRE loans versus non-owner occupied CRE loans. Owner-occupied CRE loans are generally considered to have less risk. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, approximately 14% and 16%, respectively, of the CRE loan portfolio was owner-occupied.
In accordance with regulatory guidelines, the Company exercises heightened risk management practices when non-owner occupied CRE lending exceeds 300% of total risk-based capital and outstanding balances have increased 50% or more during the prior 36 months or construction, land development and other land loans exceed 100% of total risk-based capital.
In addition, the banks have established policy limits around non-owner occupied CRE and total construction, land development and other land loans.
Non-owner CRE Loans/TRBC
Total Construction, Land Development and Other Land Loans/TRBC
QCBT
300%
100%
CRBT
400%
100%
CSB
400%
200%
GB
450%
100%
Although CSB’s loan portfolio has historically been real estate dominated and its total construction, land development and other land loans levels exceed these policy limits, it has established a Credit Risk Committee to routinely monitor its real estate loan portfolio.
Following is a listing of the significant industries within the Company’s CRE loan portfolio as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Amount
%
Amount
%
(dollars in thousands)
Lessors of residential buildings
$
2,093,253
%
$
1,861,197
%
Lessors of nonresidential buildings
633,098
%
537,940
%
Hotels
135,915
%
145,662
%
New housing for-sale builders
84,451
%
71,991
%
New multifamily housing construction
83,310
%
82,905
%
Other *
1,202,848
%
1,216,679
%
Total CRE loans
$
4,232,875
%
$
3,916,374
%
* “Other” consists of all other industries. None of these had concentrations greater than $62.2 million, or 1.5%, of total CRE loans as of December 31, 2023.
Following is a breakdown of non-owner-occupied income-producing CRE by property type as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Amount
%
Amount
%
(dollars in thousands)
Multi-family
$
1,743,020
%
$
1,613,440
%
Industrial/warehouse
205,904
%
177,921
%
Retail
185,394
%
194,122
%
Office
181,541
%
166,357
%
Hotel/motel
131,138
%
146,172
%
Other
574,736
%
514,639
%
Total income-producing CRE
$
3,021,733
%
$
2,812,651
%
Included in Multi-family non-owner occupied income-producing CRE is $1.4 billion of LIHTC loans which are financing for low-income housing tax credit real estate projects. These loans have a maximum term of 20 years. Considering the longer duration, the subsidiary banks enter into a back-to-back interest rate swap to provide the borrower a long-term fixed interest rate while the subsidiary banks receive a variable interest rate and an upfront nonrefundable fee dependent on market pricing. In addition, the financing structure of the LIHTC permanent loans includes tax credit equity investment that strengthens the overall credit profile. Including the value of the real estate and the LIHTCs, the loan-to-values of the LIHTC permanent loans are typically in the range of 25% to 65%. Lastly, the Company has policy limits on maximum exposure amounts to single developers.
A portion of the Company’s construction portfolio is considered non-residential construction. Following is a summary of industry concentrations within that category as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Amount
%
Amount
%
(dollars in thousands)
Multi-family
$
1,013,908
%
$
821,442
%
Industrial/warehouse
36,676
%
38,882
%
Office
26,414
%
17,800
%
Hotel/motel
23,965
%
14,802
%
Retail
8,990
%
4,863
%
Other
139,144
%
99,852
%
Total non-residential construction loans
$
1,249,097
%
$
997,641
%
Included in Multi-family non-residential construction is $911.4 million of LIHTC construction loans which provide financing for the construction of both new LIHTC real estate projects and the rehabilitation of existing LIHTC real estate projects. Most of these will convert to LIHTC permanent loans upon completion of construction.
Additionally, the Company had approximately $82.7 million and $119.7 million of residential construction loans outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Of this amount, approximately 60% was considered speculative, while 40% was pre-sold at December 31, 2023, and approximately 61% was considered speculative, while 39% was pre-sold at December 31, 2022.
Direct Financing Leasing
m2 leases machinery and equipment to C&I customers under direct financing leases. All lease requests are subject to the credit requirements and criteria as set forth in the lending/leasing policy. In all cases, a formal independent credit analysis of the lessee is performed.
The following private and public sector business assets are generally acceptable to consider for lease funding:
● Computer systems;
● Photocopy systems;
● Fire trucks;
● Specialized road maintenance equipment;
● Medical equipment;
● Commercial business furnishings;
● Vehicles classified as heavy equipment;
● Trucks and trailers;
● Equipment classified as plant or office equipment; and
● Marine boat lifts.
m2 will generally refrain from funding leases of the following type:
● Leases collateralized by non-marketable items;
● Leases collateralized by consumer items, such as vehicles, household goods, recreational vehicles, boats, etc.;
● Leases collateralized by used equipment, unless its remaining useful life can be readily determined; and
● Leases with a repayment schedule exceeding seven years.
Residential Real Estate Lending
Generally, the subsidiary banks residential real estate loans conform to the underwriting requirements of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae to allow the subsidiary banks to resell loans in the secondary market. The subsidiary banks structure most loans that will not conform to those underwriting requirements as adjustable rate mortgages that adjust in one to five years, and then retain these loans in their portfolios. Servicing rights are generally not retained on the loans sold in the secondary market. The Company’s lending policy establishes minimum appraisal and other credit guidelines.
The following table presents the originations and sales of residential real estate loans for the Company. Included in originations is activity related to the refinancing of previously held in-house mortgages.
For the year ended December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Originations of residential real estate loans
$
105,785
$
148,845
$
249,892
Sales of residential real estate loans
$
68,271
$
103,705
$
201,638
Percentage of sales to originations
%
%
%
Installment and Other Consumer Lending
The consumer lending department of each subsidiary bank provides many types of consumer loans, including home improvement, home equity, motor vehicle, signature loans and small personal credit lines. The Company’s lending policy addresses specific credit guidelines by consumer loan type. In particular, for home equity loans and home equity lines of credit, the minimum credit bureau score is 650. For both home equity loans and lines of credit, the maximum advance rate is 90% of value for primary residences and 80% for second/vacation homes. The maximum term on home equity loans is 10 years and maximum amortization is 15 years. The maximum term on home equity lines of credit is 10 years.
In some instances for all loans/leases, it may be appropriate to originate or purchase loans/leases that are exceptions to the guidelines and limits established within the Company’s lending policy described above. In general, exceptions to the lending policy do not significantly deviate from the guidelines and limits established within the lending policy and, if there are exceptions, they are generally noted as such and specifically identified in loan/lease approval documents.
Human Capital Resources. The Company is a relationship driven company and its ability to attract and retain exceptional employees is key to its success. As of December 31, 2023, the Company employed 953 full-time employees and 77 part-time employees across all locations. The employees are not represented by a collective bargaining unit.
The Company encourages and supports the growth and development of its employees and, wherever possible, seeks to fill positions by promotion and transfer from within the organization. Continual learning and career development is advanced through ongoing performance and development conversations with employees, internally developed training programs and external training opportunities. Educational reimbursement is available to employees enrolled in degree or certification programs and for seminars, conferences, and other training events employees attend in connection with their job duties.
As part of its compensation philosophy, the Company believes that it must offer and maintain market competitive total rewards programs for its employees in order to attract and retain exceptional talent. In addition to competitive base
wages, additional programs include annual bonus opportunities, an employee stock purchase plan, Company matched 401(k) Plan, healthcare and insurance benefits, health savings and flexible spending accounts, paid time off, family leave, sabbaticals, flexible work schedules, an employee assistance program, and various wellness programs.
The Company is committed to fostering and preserving a culture of inclusion, and believes its differences, of every kind, make the company and its communities better. During recent years, the Company focused on several initiatives to promote inclusion across its organization. A few specific actions included rolling out a diversity survey for the fourth year to gather feedback from all employees, several inclusion sessions and workshops across our different entities facilitated by our Diversity Officer as well as the formation of Inclusion Committees across our different entities.
The Company strives to maintain a culture in which employees feel valued and, to that end, regularly solicits feedback from employees to understand their views about their work environment and the Company’s culture. The results from employee engagement surveys are used to implement programs and processes designed to enhance engagement and improve the employee experience. In 2023, 92% of employees participated in the annual employee engagement survey, exceeding the Company goal of 80%, and the Company received a strong employee engagement score of 78%, above the national benchmark of 75%.
The primary regions in which the subsidiary banks operate - the Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, Marion, Waterloo/Cedar Falls, Des Moines, Iowa and Springfield/Joplin, Missouri - generally have strong labor markets, with unemployment rates of 3.3% and 3.3% in Iowa and Missouri, respectively as of December 2023.
ESG Commitment. The Company is built on relationships and integrity. We adhere to those principles in all areas of our business and in our communities and believe that meaningful environmental, social and governance programs will drive shareholder value and make us a better company. We believe in responsible use of our resources with a focus on sustainability. We are committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, to integrity in our business practices, and to strong corporate governance principles. With numerous programs and activities aligned with the ESG framework, we continue to develop and enhance our efforts to ensure we are doing what is right for our customers, our employees, and our communities.
Competition. The Company currently operates in the highly competitive Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, Marion, Waterloo/Cedar Falls, Des Moines, Iowa and Springfield/Joplin, Missouri markets. Competitors include not only other commercial banks, credit unions, thrift institutions, and mutual funds, but also insurance companies, FinTech companies, finance companies, brokerage firms, investment banking companies, and a variety of other financial services and advisory companies. Many of these competitors are not subject to the same regulatory restrictions as the Company. Many of these competitors compete across geographic boundaries and provide customers increasing access to meaningful alternatives to traditional banking services. The Company also competes in markets with a number of much larger financial institutions with substantially greater resources and larger lending limits.
Appendices. The commercial banking business is a highly regulated business. See Appendix A “Supervision and Regulation” for a discussion of the federal and state statutes and regulations that are applicable to the Company and its subsidiaries.
Internet Site, Securities Filings and Governance Documents. The Company maintains an Internet site at www.qcrh.com. The Company makes available free of charge through this site its Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and other reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as soon as reasonably practicable after it electronically files such material with, or furnishes it to, the SEC. These filings are available at http://www.snl.com/IRW/Docs/1024092. Also available are many of the Company’s corporate governance documents, including its Business Code of Conduct and Ethics Policy (https://qcrh.q4ir.com/governance/documents/default.aspx).

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Item 1A. Risk Factors
In addition to the other information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, stockholders or prospective investors should carefully consider the following risk factors:
Economic, Market and Interest Rate Risks
Conditions in the financial market and economic conditions, including conditions in the markets in which we operate, generally may adversely affect our business.
We operate primarily in the Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, Waterloo/Cedar Falls, Des Moines/Ankeny, Iowa and Springfield, Missouri markets. Our general financial performance is highly dependent upon the business environment in the markets where we operate and in particular, the ability of borrowers to pay interest on and repay principal of outstanding loans and the value of collateral securing those loans, as well as demand for loans and other products and services we offer. A favorable business environment is generally characterized by, among other factors, economic growth, efficient capital markets, low inflation, low unemployment, high business and investor confidence, and strong business earnings. Unfavorable or uncertain economic and market conditions can be caused by declines in economic growth, business activity or investor or business confidence; limitations on the availability or increases in the cost of credit and capital; increases in inflation or interest rates; high unemployment, natural disasters, pandemics or a combination of these or other factors.
Uncertainty regarding economic conditions may result in changes in consumer and business spending, borrowing and savings habits. Downturns in the markets where our banking operations occur could result in a decrease in demand for our products and services, an increase in loan delinquencies and defaults, high or increased levels of problem assets and foreclosures and reduced wealth management fees resulting from lower asset values. Such conditions could adversely affect the credit quality of our loans, financial condition and results of operations.
Interest rates and other conditions impact our results of operations.
Our profitability is in large part a function of the spread between the interest rates earned on investments and loans/leases and the interest rates paid on deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities. Like most banking institutions, our net interest spread and margin will be affected by general economic conditions and other factors, including fiscal and monetary policies of the federal government that influence market interest rates and our ability to respond to changes in such rates. At any given time, our assets and liabilities will be such that they are affected differently by a given change in interest rates. As a result, an increase or decrease in rates, the length of loan/lease terms, and the mix of adjustable and fixed rate loans/leases in our portfolio, the length of time deposits and borrowings and the rate sensitivity of our deposit customers could have a positive or negative effect on our net income, capital and liquidity. In addition, the size of nonrefundable swap fees earned in connection with our LIHTC permanent loans may fluctuate depending on the interest rate environment. We measure interest rate risk under various rate scenarios using specific criteria and assumptions. A summary of this process, along with the results of our net interest income simulations is presented at "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk" included under Item 7A of Part II of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Although we believe our current level of interest rate sensitivity is reasonable and effectively managed, significant fluctuations in interest rates may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Monetary policies and regulations of the Federal Reserve could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
In addition to being affected by general economic conditions, our earnings and growth are affected by the policies of the Federal Reserve. An important function of the Federal Reserve is to regulate the money supply and credit conditions of the nation. Among the instruments used by the Federal Reserve to implement these objectives are open market operations in U.S. government securities, adjustments of the discount rate and changes in reserve requirements
against bank deposits. These instruments are used in varying combinations to influence overall economic growth and the distribution of credit, bank loans, investments and deposits. Their use also affects interest rates charged on loans or paid on deposits.
It is currently expected that during 2024, and perhaps beyond, the Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve, or FOMC, may continue to increase interest rates to reduce the rate of inflation. In 2023, the FOMC increased at various dates throughout the year the target range for the federal funds rate from 4.25% to 4.50% to a range of 5.25% to 5.50%. All of these increases were expressly made in response to inflationary pressures, which may continue in 2024. If the FOMC further increases the targeted federal funds rates in response to inflationary pressures, overall interest rates will likely rise, which may negatively impact the entire national economy. In addition, 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 assets. Rising interest rates also may reduce the demand for loans and the value of fixed-rate investment securities. Any future change in monetary policy by the FOMC, in an effort to stimulate the economy or otherwise, resulting in lower interest rates would likely result in lower revenue through lower net interest income over time, which could adversely affect our results of operations. These effects from interest rate changes or from other sustained economic stress or a recession, among other matters, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.
Given the complex factors affecting the strength of the U.S. economy, including uncertainties regarding the persistence of inflation, geopolitical developments and the wars between Russia and Ukraine and between Israel and Palestine, and resulting disruptions in political systems and the global energy market, and tight labor market conditions and supply chain issues, there is a meaningful risk that the Federal Reserve and other central banks may raise interest rates more than expected, thereby limiting economic growth and potentially causing an economic recession. This could decrease loan demand, harm the credit characteristics of our existing loan portfolio and decrease the value of collateral securing loans in the portfolio.
Declines in asset values may result in impairment charges and adversely affect the value of our investments, financial performance and capital.
The market value of investments in our securities portfolio has become increasingly volatile in recent years, and as of December 31, 2023, we had gross unrealized losses of $84.8 million, or 8.2% of amortized cost, in our investment portfolio (offset by gross unrealized gains of $33.6 million). If we are forced to liquidate any of those investments prior to maturity, including because of a lack of liquidity, we would recognize as a charge to earnings the losses attributable to those securities. Our securities portfolio has an average duration of 6.2 years, so we expect an increase in realized losses if interest rates continue to increase in 2024.
The market value of investments may be affected by factors other than the underlying performance of the servicer of the securities or the mortgages underlying the securities, such as changes in the interest rate environment, negative trends in the residential and commercial real estate markets, ratings downgrades, adverse changes in the business climate and a lack of liquidity in the secondary market for certain investment securities. On a quarterly basis, we formally evaluate investments and other assets for impairment indicators. Reduction in the value, or impairment of our investment securities, can impact our earnings and common stockholders' equity. We maintained a balance of $1.0 billion, or 12% of our assets, in investment securities at December 31, 2023. Changes in market interest rates can affect the value of these investment securities, with increasing interest rates generally resulting in a reduction of value. Although the reduction in value from temporary increases in market rates does not affect our income until the security is sold, it does result in an unrealized loss recorded in other comprehensive income that can reduce our common stockholders’ equity. Further, we may have to record provision expense to establish an allowance for credit losses on our carried at fair value debt securities, and we must periodically test our investment securities for other-than-temporary impairment in value. In assessing whether the value of investment securities is impaired, we consider the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and the intent and ability to retain our investment in the security for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value in the near term. Based on management's evaluation, it was determined that
the gross unrealized losses at December 31, 2023 were primarily a function of the changes in certain market interest rates.
A large percentage of our investment securities has fixed interest rates and are classified as available for sale. As is the case with many financial institutions, our emphasis on increasing the development of core deposits, those with no stated maturity date, has resulted in our interest-bearing liabilities having a shorter duration than our interest-earning assets. This
imbalance can create significant earnings volatility because interest rates change over time. As interest rates have increased, our cost of funds has increased more rapidly than the yields on a substantial portion of our interest-earning assets. In addition, the market value of our fixed-rate assets, for example, our investment securities, has declined in recent periods. In line with the foregoing, we have experienced and may continue to experience an increase in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities primarily due to increasing the rates we pay on some of our deposit products to stay competitive within our market and an increase in borrowing costs from increases in the federal funds rate. Community banks rely more heavily than larger institutions on net interest income as a revenue source. Larger institutions generally have more diversified sources of noninterest income.
The stock market can be volatile, and fluctuations in our operating results and other factors could cause our stock price to decline.
The stock market has experienced, and may continue to experience, fluctuations that significantly impact the market prices of securities issued by many companies. Market fluctuations could also adversely affect our stock price. These fluctuations have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of particular companies. These broad market fluctuations, as well as general economic, systemic, political and market conditions, such as recessions, loss of investor confidence, interest rate changes, or international currency fluctuations, may negatively affect the market price of our common stock. Moreover, our operating results may fluctuate and vary from period to period due to the risk factors set forth herein. As a result, period-to-period comparisons should not be relied upon as an indication of future performance. Our stock price could fluctuate significantly in response to our quarterly or annual results and the impact of these risk factors on our operating results or financial position.
Secondary mortgage, government guaranteed loan and interest rate swap market conditions could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
Currently, we sell a portion of the residential real estate and government guaranteed loans we originate. The profitability of these operations depends in large part upon our ability to make loans and to sell them in the secondary market at a gain. Thus, we are dependent upon the existence of an active secondary market and our ability to profitably sell loans into that market.
In addition to being affected by interest rates, the secondary markets are also subject to investor demand for residential mortgages and government guaranteed loans and investor yield requirements for those loans. These conditions may fluctuate or even worsen in the future. As a result, a prolonged period of secondary market illiquidity may reduce our loan production volumes and could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
The interest rate swap market is dependent upon market conditions. If interest rates move, interest rate swap transactions may no longer make sense for the Company and/or its customers. Interest rate swaps are generally appropriate for commercial customers with a certain level of expertise and comfort with derivatives, so our success is dependent upon the ability to make loans to these types of commercial customers. Additionally, our ability to execute interest rate swaps is also dependent upon counterparties that are willing to enter into the interest rate swap that is equal and offsetting to the interest rate swap we enter into with the commercial customer. The mix of loans with interest rate swaps are heavily weighted towards LIHTC permanent loans. Future levels of swap fee income are dependent upon the needs of our traditional commercial and LIHTC borrowers, and the size of the related nonrefundable swap fee may fluctuate on the interest rate environment.
Our hedging strategies may not be successful in mitigating our exposure to interest rate risk.
We use derivative financial instruments, primarily consisting of interest rate swaps, to limit our exposure to interest rate risk within the banking and mortgage origination segments. No hedging strategy can completely protect us, and the derivative financial instruments we elect may not have the effect of reducing our interest rate risk. Poorly designed strategies, improperly executed and documented transactions, inaccurate assumptions or the failure of a counterparty to fulfill its obligations could actually increase our risks and losses. In addition, hedging strategies involve transaction and other costs. Our hedging strategies and the derivatives that we use may not adequately offset the risks of interest rate volatility and could result in or magnify losses, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Unexpected early termination of interest rate swap agreements may affect earnings.
We have entered into interest rate swap agreements, primarily as an asset/liability risk management tool, in order to mitigate the interest rate risk that causes fluctuations in the fair value of specified long-term fixed-rate loans or firm commitments to originate long-term fixed rate loans. In the event of default by the borrowers on our hedged loans, we may have to terminate these designated interest rate swap agreements early, resulting in market value losses that could negatively affect our earnings.
If interest rate swaps we entered into prove ineffective, it could result in volatility in our operating results, including potential losses, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows.
We are exposed to the effects of interest rate changes as a result of the borrowings we use to maintain liquidity and fund our expansion and operations. To limit the impact of interest rate changes on earnings, prepayment penalties and cash flows and to lower overall borrowing costs while taking into account variable interest rate risk, we may borrow at fixed rates or variable rates depending upon prevailing market conditions.
Our interest rate contracts expose us to:
● basis or spread risk, which is the risk of loss associated with variations in the spread between the interest rate contract and the hedged item;
● credit or counter-party risk, which is the risk of the insolvency or other inability of another party to the transaction to perform its obligations;
● interest rate risk;
● volatility risk, which is the risk that the expected uncertainty relating to the price of the underlying asset differs from what is anticipated; and
● liquidity risk.
If we suffer losses on our interest rate contracts, our business, financial condition and prospects may be negatively affected, and our net income will decline.
We record the swaps at fair value and designate them as an effective cash flow hedge under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging. Each quarter, we measure hedge effectiveness using the “hypothetical derivative method” and record in earnings any gains or losses resulting from hedge ineffectiveness. The hedge provided by our swaps could prove to be ineffective for a number of reasons, including early retirement of the debt, as is allowed under the debt, or in the event the counterparty to the interest rate swaps were determined to not be creditworthy. Any determination that the hedge
created by the swaps was ineffective could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows and result in volatility in our operating results. In addition, any changes in relevant accounting standards relating to the swaps, especially ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging, could materially increase earnings volatility.
For additional information, see Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk and Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Interest rate swaps expose the Company to certain risks, and may not be effective in mitigating exposure to changes in interest rates.
The Company has entered into interest rate swap agreements in order to manage a portion of the interest rate volatility risk. The Company anticipates that it will enter into additional interest rate swaps. These swap agreements involve other risks, such as the risk that the counterparty may fail to honor its obligations under these arrangements, leaving the Company vulnerable to interest rate movements. The Bank’s current interest rate swap agreements include bilateral collateral agreements whereby the net fair value position is collateralized by the party in a net liability position. The bilateral collateral agreements reduce the Company’s counterparty risk exposure. There can be no assurance that these arrangements will be effective in reducing the Company’s exposure to changes in interest rates. Moreover, a significant decline in the value of the collateral used to secure loans that have a related interest rate swap agreement may limit our ability to realize enough value from the collateral to cover the outstanding balance of the loan and the related swap liability.
For additional information, see Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk and Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Continued elevated levels of inflation could adversely impact our business and results of operations.
The U.S. has recently experienced elevated levels of inflation, with the consumer price index at 3.4% at the end of 2023. Continued elevated levels of inflation could have complex effects on our business and results of operations, some of which could be materially adverse. For example, elevated inflation harms consumer purchasing power, which could negatively affect our retail customers and the economic environment and, ultimately, many of our business customers, and could also negatively affect our levels of non-interest expense. In addition, if interest rates continue to rise in response to elevated levels of inflation, the value of our securities portfolio could be negatively impacted. Continued elevated levels of inflation could also cause increased volatility and uncertainty in the business environment, which could adversely affect loan demand and our clients’ ability to repay indebtedness. It is also possible that governmental responses to the current inflation environment, such as changes to monetary and fiscal policy that are too strict, or the imposition or threatened imposition of price controls, could adversely affect our business. The duration and severity of the current inflationary period cannot be estimated with precision.
Labor shortages and failure to attract and retain qualified employees could negatively impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.
A number of factors may adversely affect the labor force available to us or increase labor costs, including high employment levels, decreased labor force size and participation rates. Although we have not experienced any material labor shortage to date, we have recently observed an overall tightening and competitive local labor market. A sustained labor shortage or increased turnover rates within our employee base could lead to increased costs, such as increased compensation expense to attract and retain employees.
In addition, if we are unable to hire and retain employees capable of performing at a high-level, or if mitigation measures we may take to respond to a decrease in labor availability have unintended negative effects, our business could be adversely affected. An overall labor shortage, lack of skilled labor, increased turnover or labor inflation could have a material adverse impact on our operations, results of operations, liquidity or cash flows.
Regulatory and Legal Risks
We may be materially and adversely affected by the highly regulated environment in which we operate.
The Company and its bank subsidiaries are subject to extensive federal and state regulation, supervision and examination. Banking regulations are primarily intended to protect depositors' funds, FDIC funds, customers and the banking system as a whole, rather than stockholders. These regulations affect our lending practices, capital structure, investment practices, dividend policy and growth, among other things.
As a bank holding company, we are subject to regulation and supervision primarily by the Federal Reserve. QCBT, CRBT and CSB, as Iowa-chartered state member banks, are subject to regulation and supervision primarily by both the Iowa Division of Banking and the Federal Reserve. GB, as a Missouri-chartered commercial bank, is subject to regulation by both the Missouri Division of Finance and the Federal Reserve. We and our banks undergo periodic examinations by these regulators, who have extensive discretion and authority to prevent or remedy unsafe or unsound practices or violations of law by banks and bank holding companies. The primary federal and state banking laws and regulations that affect us are described in Appendix A “Supervision and Regulation” to this report. These laws, regulations, rules, standards, policies and interpretations are constantly evolving and may change significantly over time.
U.S. financial institutions are also subject to numerous monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements designed to detect and prevent illegal activities such as money laundering and terrorist financing. These requirements are imposed primarily through the Bank Secrecy Act. We have instituted policies and procedures to protect us and our employees, to the extent reasonably possible, from being used to facilitate money laundering, terrorist financing and other financial crimes. There can be no guarantee, however, that these policies and procedures are effective.
Failure to comply with applicable laws, regulations or policies could result in sanctions by regulatory agencies, civil monetary penalties, and/or damage to our reputation, which could have a material adverse effect on us. Although we have policies and procedures designed to mitigate the risk of any such violations, there can be no assurance that such violations will not occur.
Future legislation, regulation, and government policy could affect the banking industry as a whole, including our business and results of operations, in ways that are difficult to predict. In addition, our results of operations also could be adversely affected by changes in the way in which existing statutes and regulations are interpreted or applied by courts and government agencies.
We are required to maintain capital to meet regulatory requirements, and if we fail to maintain sufficient capital, whether due to losses, an inability to raise additional capital or otherwise, our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations, as well as our ability to maintain regulatory compliance, would be adversely affected.
The Company and each of its banking subsidiaries are required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support their operations. We intend to grow our business organically and to explore opportunities to grow our business by taking advantage of attractive acquisition opportunities, and such growth plans may require us to raise additional capital to ensure that we have adequate levels of capital to support such growth on top of our current operations. Our ability to raise additional capital, when and if needed or desired, will depend 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, many of which are outside our control, and on our financial condition and performance. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that we will be able to raise additional capital if needed or on terms acceptable to us. In particular, if we were required to raise additional capital in the current interest rate environment, we believe the pricing and other terms investors may require in such an offering may not be attractive to us. Our failure to meet these capital and other regulatory requirements could affect customer confidence, our ability to grow, our costs of funds and FDIC insurance costs, our ability to pay dividends on
common and preferred stock and to make distributions on our trust preferred securities, our ability to make acquisitions, and our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Climate change and related legislative and regulatory initiatives may result in operational changes and expenditures that could significantly impact our business.
The current and anticipated effects of climate change are creating an increasing level of concern for the state of the global environment. As a result, political and social attention to the issue of climate change has increased. In recent years, governments across the world have entered into international agreements to attempt to reduce global temperatures, in part by limiting greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Congress, state legislatures and federal and state regulatory agencies have continued to propose and advance numerous legislative and regulatory initiatives seeking to mitigate the effects of climate change. Consumers and businesses may also change their behavior on their own as a result of these concerns. The impact on our customers will likely vary depending on their specific attributes, including reliance on or role in carbon intensive activities. 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.
Given the lack of empirical data on the credit and other financial risks posed by climate change, it is difficult to predict how climate change may impact our financial condition and operations; however, as a banking organization, the physical effects of climate change may present certain unique risks. For example, weather disasters, shifts in local climates and other disruptions related to climate change may adversely affect the value of real properties securing our loans, which could diminish the value of our loan portfolio. Such events may also cause reductions in regional and local economic activity that may have an adverse effect on our customers, which could limit our ability to raise and invest capital in these areas and communities.
There is uncertainty surrounding potential legal, regulatory and policy changes by new presidential administrations in the U.S. that may directly affect financial institutions and the global economy.
2024 is a presidential election year. Changes in federal policy and at regulatory agencies occur over time through policy and personnel changes following elections, which lead to changes involving the level of oversight and focus on the financial services industry. The nature, timing and economic and political effects of potential changes to the current legal and regulatory framework affecting financial institutions remain highly uncertain. Uncertainty surrounding future changes may adversely affect our operating environment and therefore our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.
Evolving law impacting cannabis-related businesses in Illinois, Missouri and other states may have an impact on the Company's operations and risk profile.
The Controlled Substances Act makes it illegal under federal law to manufacture, distribute, or dispense marijuana. Starting January 1, 2020, however, the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act began permitting adults to legally purchase marijuana for recreational use from licensed dispensaries in Illinois. Moreover, effective December 8, 2022, Missouri also began permitting adults to possess marijuana for recreational use. It is the Banks' current policy to avoid knowingly providing banking products or services to entities or individuals that: (i) directly or indirectly manufacture, distribute, or dispense marijuana or hemp products, or those with a significant financial interest in such entities; or (ii) derive a significant percentage of revenue from providing products or services to, or other involvement with, such entities. The Banks are taking reasonable measures, including appropriate new account screening and customer due diligence measures, to ensure that existing and potential customers do not engage in any such activities. Nonetheless, the shift in Illinois law legalizing cannabis use has increased the number of direct and indirect cannabis-related businesses in Illinois, and therefore has increased the likelihood that the Banks could interact with such businesses, as well as their owners and employees. Such interactions could create additional legal, regulatory, strategic, and reputational risk to the Banks and the Company.
Credit and Lending Risks
We must effectively manage our credit risk.
There are risks inherent in making any loan, including risks inherent in dealing with specific borrowers, risks of nonpayment, risks resulting from uncertainties as to the future value of collateral and risks resulting from changes in economic and industry conditions. In general, these risks have increased as a result of the recent increases in prevailing interest rates and uncertainties associated with inflation, which have potentially increased the risk of a near-term decline in growth or an economic downturn. We attempt to minimize our credit risk through prudent loan application approval procedures, careful monitoring of the concentration of our loans within specific industries and periodic independent reviews of outstanding loans by our credit review department and an external third party. However, default risk may arise from events or circumstances that are difficult to detect, such as fraud, or difficult to predict, such as catastrophic events affects on certain industries. Therefore, we cannot assure you that such approval and monitoring procedures will reduce these credit risks.
The majority of our subsidiary banks' loan portfolios are invested in C&I and CRE loans, and we focus on lending to small to medium-sized businesses. The size of the loans we can offer to commercial customers is less than the size of the loans that our larger competitors with larger lending limits can offer. This may limit our ability to establish relationships with the area's largest businesses. Smaller companies tend to be at a competitive disadvantage and generally have limited operating histories, less sophisticated internal record keeping and financial planning capabilities and fewer financial resources than larger companies. As a result, we may assume greater lending risks than financial institutions that have a lesser concentration of such loans and tend to make loans to larger, more established businesses. Collateral for these loans generally includes accounts receivable, inventory, equipment and real estate. However, depending on the overall financial condition of the borrower, some loans are made on an unsecured basis. In addition to C&I and CRE loans, our subsidiary banks are also active in residential mortgage and consumer lending. Our borrowers may experience financial difficulties, and the level of nonperforming loans, charge-offs and delinquencies could rise, which could negatively impact our business through increased provision expense, reduced interest income on loans/leases, and increased expenses incurred to carry and resolve problem loans/leases.
C&I loans make up a large portion of our loan/lease portfolio.
C&I loans were $1.8 billion, or approximately 28% of our total loan/lease portfolio, as of December 31, 2023. Our C&I loans are primarily made based on the identified cash flow of the borrower and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. Because payments on such loans are often dependent on the successful operation of the borrower involved, repayment of such loans is often more sensitive than the other types of loans to adverse conditions in the general economy. For example, the cumulative effects of decreased economic activity, changes in the economy and overall business environment, labor availability shortages and supply chain constraints as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic have adversely affected C&I loans, and we expect this trend to continue for certain portions of our loan portfolio, depending on the strength and speed of economic recovery and other factors, particularly if general economic conditions worsen.
Most often, the collateral for C&I loans is accounts receivable, inventory, equipment and real estate. Credit support provided by the borrower for most of these loans and the probability of repayment is based on the liquidation value of the pledged collateral and enforcement of a personal guarantee, if any exists. 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 customers, which could decline in the case of an economic recession. The collateral securing these loans may lose value over time, may be difficult to appraise, and may fluctuate in value based on the success of the business. As a result of the recent increase in interest rates and other factors, we have observed a corresponding decline in the value of commercial real estate securing these loans.
Our loan/lease portfolio has a significant concentration of CRE loans, which involve risks specific to real estate values.
CRE lending comprises a significant portion of our lending business. Specifically, CRE loans were $4.2 billion, or approximately 65% of our total loan/lease portfolio, as of December 31, 2023. Of this amount, $607.4 million, or approximately 14%, was owner-occupied. The market value of real estate securing our CRE loans can fluctuate significantly in a short period of time as a result of interest rates and market conditions in the geographic area in which the real estate is located. Adverse developments affecting real estate values in one or more of our markets could increase the credit risk associated with our loan portfolio. Additionally, real estate lending typically involves higher loan principal amounts and the repayment of the loans generally is dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the properties securing the loans to cover operating expenses and debt service. Economic events, including decreases in office occupancy following the COVID-19 pandemic, or governmental regulations outside of the control of the borrower or lender could negatively impact the future cash flow and market values of the affected properties.
Included in our CRE lending portfolio are our LIHTC construction and permanent loans, which have the same inherent risks as our other non-owner occupied CRE loans. However, the LIHTC construction and permanent loans, and related nonrefundable swap fee income, rely on federal LIHTCs to help finance the overall real estate projects and are dependent on the continued availability of such LIHTC programs. Changes to the LIHTC programs, including changes to the level of tax credits provided by the federal government on low-income housing, may have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Capital and Liquidity Risks
Liquidity risks could affect operations and jeopardize our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Liquidity is essential to our business. An inability to raise funds through deposits, borrowings, the sale of securities and/or loans and other sources could have a substantial negative effect on our liquidity. Our primary sources of funds consist of cash from operations, deposits, investment maturities, repayments, and calls, and loan/lease repayments. Additional liquidity is provided by federal funds purchased from the FRB or other correspondent banks, FHLB advances, wholesale and customer repurchase agreements, brokered deposits, a line of credit at a correspondent bank and the ability to borrow at the FRB's Discount Window. Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance or capitalize our activities on terms that are acceptable to us could be impaired by factors that either affect us specifically or that affect the financial services industry or economy in general, such as disruptions in the financial markets or negative views and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry. In addition, increased competition with the largest banks and Fintechs for retail deposits may impact our ability to raise funds through deposits and could have a negative effect on our liquidity.
Any decline in available funding could adversely impact our ability to originate loans/leases, invest in securities, meet our expenses, pay dividends to our stockholders, or fulfill our obligations, including repaying our borrowings or meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could have a material adverse impact on our liquidity, business, results of operations and financial condition.
As a bank holding company, our sources of funds are limited.
We are a bank holding company, and our operations are primarily conducted by the subsidiary Banks, which are subject to significant federal and state regulation. When available, cash to pay dividends to our stockholders is derived primarily from dividends received from the Banks. Our ability to receive dividends or loans from the Banks is restricted. Dividend payments by our subsidiaries to us in the future will require generation of future earnings by them and could require regulatory approval if any proposed dividends are in excess of prescribed guidelines. Further, as a structural matter, our right to participate in the assets of the Banks in the event of a liquidation or reorganization of any of the Banks would be subject to the claims of the creditors of such Bank, including depositors, which would take
priority except to the extent we may be a creditor with a recognized claim. As of December 31, 2023, the Banks had deposits, borrowings and other liabilities in the aggregate of approximately $7.7 billion.
Our allowance for credit losses may prove to be insufficient to absorb losses in our loan/lease portfolio.
We establish our allowance for credit losses in consultation with management of our subsidiaries and maintain it at a level considered adequate by management to absorb loan/lease losses that are inherent in the portfolio. The amount of future loan/lease losses is susceptible to changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates, which may be beyond our control, and such losses may exceed current estimates. At December 31, 2023, our allowance as a percentage of gross loans/leases held for investment was 1.33%, and as a percentage of total NPLs was 265.54%.
In addition, we had net charge-offs as a percentage of gross average loans/leases of 0.13% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Because of the concentration of C&I and CRE loans in our loan portfolio, which tend to be larger in amount than residential real estate and installment loans, the movement of a small number of loans to nonperforming status can have a significant impact on these ratios. Although management believes that the allowance as of December 31, 2023 was adequate to absorb losses on any existing loans/leases that may become uncollectible, we cannot predict loan/lease losses with certainty, and we cannot assure you that our allowance will prove sufficient to cover actual loan/lease losses in the future, particularly if economic conditions are more difficult than what management currently expects. Additional provisions and loan/lease losses in excess of our allowance may adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Competitive and Strategic Risks
We face intense competition in all phases of our business from other banks, financial institutions and non-bank financial services providers.
The banking and financial services businesses in our markets are highly competitive. Our competitors include large regional banks, local community banks, savings and loan associations, securities and brokerage companies, mortgage companies, insurance companies, finance companies, Fintech companies, money market mutual funds, credit unions, online lenders and other non-bank financial services providers. Many of these competitors are not subject to the same regulatory restrictions as we are. Many of our unregulated competitors compete across geographic boundaries and are able to provide customers with a feasible alternative to traditional banking services.
While we do not offer products relating to digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, stablecoins and other similar assets, there has been a significant increase in digital asset adoption globally over the past several years. Certain characteristics of digital asset transactions, such as the speed with which such transactions can be conducted, the ability to transact without the involvement of regulated intermediaries, the ability to engage in transactions across multiple jurisdictions, and the anonymous nature of the transactions, are appealing to certain consumers notwithstanding the various risks posed by such transactions. Accordingly, digital asset service providers-which at present are not subject to the same degree of scrutiny and oversight as banking organizations and other financial institutions-are becoming active competitors to more traditional financial institutions.
The process of eliminating banks as intermediaries, known as “disintermediation,” could result in the loss of fee income, as well as the loss of customer deposits and the related income generated from deposits. The loss of these revenue streams and the lower cost deposits as a source of funds could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Potential partnerships with digital asset companies, moreover, could also entail significant investment.
Increased competition may result in a decrease in the amounts of our loans and deposits, reduced spreads between loan/lease rates and deposit rates or loan/lease terms that are more favorable to the borrower. Any of these results could have a material adverse effect on our ability to grow and remain profitable. If increased competition causes us
to significantly discount the interest rates we offer on loans or increase the amount we pay on deposits, our net interest income could be adversely impacted. If increased competition causes us to modify our underwriting standards, we could be exposed to higher losses from lending and leasing activities. Additionally, many of our competitors are much larger in total assets and capitalization, have greater access to capital markets, have larger lending limits and offer a broader range of financial services than we can offer.
Potential future acquisitions could be difficult to integrate, divert the attention of key personnel, disrupt our business, dilute stockholder value and adversely affect our financial results.
As part of our business strategy, we may consider acquisitions of other banks or financial institutions or the branches, assets or deposits of such organizations. There is no assurance, however, that we will determine to pursue any of these opportunities or that if we determine to pursue them that we will be successful. Acquisitions involve numerous risks, any of which could harm our business, including:
● difficulties in integrating the operations, technologies, products, existing contracts, accounting processes and personnel of the target company and realizing the anticipated synergies of the combined businesses;
● difficulties in supporting and transitioning customers of the target company;
● diversion of financial and management resources from existing operations;
● the price we pay or other resources that we devote may exceed the value we realize, or the value we could have realized if we had allocated the purchase price or other resources to another opportunity;
● risks of entering new markets or areas in which we have limited or no experience or are outside our core competencies;
● potential loss of key employees, customers and strategic alliances from either our current business or the business of the target company;
● risks of acquiring loans with deteriorated credit quality;
● assumption of unanticipated problems or latent liabilities; and
● inability to generate sufficient revenue to offset acquisition costs.
Future acquisitions may involve the issuance of our equity securities as payment or in connection with financing the business or assets acquired, and as a result, could dilute the ownership interests of existing stockholders. In addition, consummating these transactions could result in the incurrence of additional debt and related interest expense, as well as unforeseen liabilities, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. The failure to successfully evaluate and execute acquisitions or otherwise adequately address the risks associated with acquisitions could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
New lines of business or new products and services may subject us to additional risks.
From time to time, we may seek to implement new lines of business or offer new products and services within existing lines of business in our current markets or new markets. There are substantial risks and uncertainties associated with these efforts, particularly in instances where the markets are not fully developed. In developing and marketing new lines of business and/or new products and services, we may invest significant time and resources. Initial timetables for the introduction and development of new lines of business and/or new products or services may not be achieved
and price and profitability targets may not prove feasible, which could in turn have a material negative effect on our operating results.
If securities or industry analysts do not publish or cease publishing research reports about us, if they adversely change their recommendations regarding our stock or if our operating results do not meet their expectations, the price of our stock could decline.
The trading market for our common stock can be influenced by the research and reports that industry or securities analysts may publish about us, our business, our market or our competitors. If there is limited or no securities or industry analyst coverage of us, the market price for our stock could be negatively impacted. Moreover, if any of the analysts who elect to cover us downgrade our common stock, provide more favorable relative recommendations about our competitors or if our operating results or prospects do not meet their expectations, the market price of our common stock may decline. If one or more of these analysts ceases coverage of us or fails to publish reports on us regularly, demand for our stock could decrease, which could cause our stock price and trading volume to decline.
Our reputation could be damaged by negative publicity.
Reputational risk, or the risk to our business, financial condition or results of operations from negative publicity, is inherent in our business. Negative publicity can result from actual or alleged conduct in a number of areas, including legal and regulatory compliance, lending practices, corporate governance, litigation, inadequate protection of customer data, ethical behavior of our employees, and from actions taken by regulators, ratings agencies and others as a result of that conduct. Damage to our reputation could impact our ability to attract new or maintain existing loan and deposit customers, employees and business relationships.
The soundness of other financial institutions could adversely affect us.
Financial services institutions are interrelated as a result of trading, clearing, counterparty or other relationships. We have exposure to many different industries and counterparties, and we routinely execute transactions with counterparties in the financial services industry, including brokers and dealers, commercial banks, investment banks and other institutional clients. Many of these transactions expose us to credit risk in the event of default by a counterparty or client. In addition, our credit risk may be exacerbated when the collateral held by us cannot be realized or is liquidated at prices not sufficient to recover the full amount of the loan or derivative exposure due us. There is no assurance that any such losses would not materially and adversely affect our results of operations or earnings. Additionally, we may be negatively affected by brand or reputational harm to other community banks or to the community banking industry.
Accounting and Tax Risks
The preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements requires us to make estimates and judgments, which are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty and which may differ from actual results.
Our Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and general reporting practices within the financial services industry, which require us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Some accounting policies, such as those pertaining to our allowance for credit losses, require the application of significant judgment by management in selecting the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these estimates and judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty and actual results may differ from these estimates and judgments under different assumptions or conditions, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations in subsequent periods.
From time to time, the FASB and the SEC change the financial accounting and reporting standards or the interpretation of those standards that govern the preparation of our external financial statements. In addition, trends in financial and
business reporting, including environmental, social and governance (ESG) related disclosures, could require us to incur additional reporting expense. These changes are beyond our control, can be difficult to predict and could materially impact how we report our financial condition and results of operations.
Operational Risks
The Company's information systems may experience an interruption or breach in security and cyber-attacks, all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business.
The Company relies heavily on internal and outsourced technologies, communications, and information systems to conduct its business, particularly with respect to our core processing provider and our mobile banking provider. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Company collects, processes and retains sensitive and confidential information regarding our customers. As the Company's reliance on technology has increased, so have the potential risks of a technology-related operation interruption (such as disruptions in the Company's customer relationship management, general ledger, deposit, loan, or other systems) or the occurrence of a cyber-attacks (such as unauthorized access to the Company's systems or those of our third-party partners, including as a result of increasingly sophisticated methods of conducting cyber-attacks, including those employing artificial intelligence). These risks have increased for all financial institutions as new technologies, the use of the Internet and telecommunications technologies (including mobile devices) to conduct financial and other business transactions and the increased sophistication and activities of organized crime, perpetrators of fraud, hackers, terrorists and others have also increased. Industry trends in ransomware, phishing, and other intrusion methods have increased significantly and will continue to pose increased risk while the Company’s operations remain partially remote.
In addition to cyber-attacks or other security breaches involving the theft of sensitive and confidential information, hackers have engaged in attacks against financial institutions, retailers and government agencies, particularly denial of service attacks that are designed to disrupt key business or government services, such as customer-facing web sites. The Company may not be able to anticipate or implement effective preventive measures against all security breaches of these types, especially because the techniques used change frequently and because attacks can originate from a wide variety of sources. It is also possible that a cyber incident, such as a security breach, may remain undetected for a period of time, further exposing the Company to technology-related risks.
The Company also faces risks related to cyber-attacks and other security breaches in connection with credit card, debit card and other payment related transactions that typically involve the transmission of sensitive information regarding the Company's customers through various third parties, including merchant acquiring banks, payment processors, payment card networks and its processors. Some of these parties have in the past been the target of security breaches and cyber-attacks, and because the transactions involve third parties and environments such as the point of sale that the Company does not control or secure, future security breaches or cyber-attacks affecting any of these third parties could impact the Company through no fault of its own, and in some cases it may have exposure and suffer losses for breaches or attacks relating to them. Further cyber-attacks or other breaches in the future, whether affecting the Company or others, could intensify consumer concern and regulatory focus and result in increased costs, all of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business. To the extent we are involved in any future cyber-attacks or other breaches, the Company's reputation could be affected, which could also have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition or results of operations.
Furthermore, there has been a heightened legislative and regulatory focus on privacy, data protection and information security. New or revised laws and regulations, including with the respect to the use of artificial intelligence by financial institutions and service providers, may significantly impact our current and planned privacy, data protection and information security-related practices, the collection, use, retention and safeguarding of customer and employee information, and current or planned business activities. Compliance with current or future privacy, data protection and information security laws could result in higher compliance and technology costs and could restrict our ability to provide certain products and services, which could adversely affect our business.
System failure or breaches of our network security could subject us to increased operating costs as well as litigation and other liabilities.
The computer systems and network infrastructure we or our third-party partners use could be vulnerable to unforeseen problems. Our operations are dependent upon our ability to protect our computer equipment against damage from physical theft, fire, power loss, telecommunications failure or a similar catastrophic event, as well as from security breaches, denial of service attacks, viruses, worms and other disruptive problems caused by hackers. Any damage or failure that causes an interruption in our or our third-party partners’ operations could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. Computer break-ins, phishing and other disruptions could also jeopardize the security of information stored in and transmitted through computer systems and network infrastructure, as well as that of our customers engaging in internet banking activities, which may result in significant liability to us and may cause existing and potential customers to refrain from doing business with us.
Although we, with the help of third-party service providers, intend to continue to implement security technology and establish operational procedures to prevent such damage, there can be no assurance that these security measures will be successful. In addition, advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries in the field of cryptography or other developments could result in a compromise or breach of the algorithms we and our third-party service providers use to encrypt and protect customer transaction data. Any interruption in, or breach of security of, our computer systems and network infrastructure, or that of our third-party partners or internet banking customers, could damage our reputation, result in a loss of customer business, subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny, or expose us to civil litigation and possible financial liability, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. The Company may also need to spend additional resources to enhance protective and detective measures or to conduct investigations to remediate any vulnerabilities that arise.
We are subject to certain operational risks, including, but not limited to, customer or employee misconduct or fraud and data processing system failures and errors.
Employee errors and employee and customer misconduct could subject us to financial losses or regulatory sanctions and seriously harm our reputation. Misconduct by our employees could include hiding unauthorized activities from us, improper or unauthorized activities on behalf of our customers or improper use of confidential information. It is not always possible to prevent employee errors and misconduct, and the precautions we take to prevent and detect this activity may not be effective in all cases. Employee errors could also subject us to financial claims for negligence.
We maintain a system of internal controls and insurance coverage to mitigate operational risks, including data processing system failures and errors and customer or employee fraud. Despite having business continuity plans and other safeguards, the Company could still be affected. Should our internal controls fail to prevent or detect an occurrence, and if any resulting loss is not insured or exceeds applicable insurance limits, such failure could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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 SBA Preferred Lender status. If we lose our status as an SBA 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 loans in the secondary market. These sales have resulted in our earning premium income and/or have created a stream of future servicing income. 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 loans, we incur credit risk on the retained, non-guaranteed portion of the loans.
In the event of a loss resulting from default and the SBA determines there is a deficiency in the manner in which the loan was originated, funded or serviced by the us, the SBA may require us to repurchase 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, any of which could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Our community banking strategy relies heavily on our subsidiaries' independent management teams, and the unexpected loss of key managers may adversely affect our operations.
We rely heavily on the success of our bank subsidiaries' independent management teams. Accordingly, much of our success to date has been influenced strongly by our ability to attract and to retain senior management experienced in banking and financial services and familiar with the communities in our market areas. Our ability to retain the executive officers and current management teams of our operating subsidiaries will continue to be important to the successful implementation of our strategy. It is also critical, as we manage our existing portfolio and grow, to be able to attract and retain qualified additional management and loan officers with the appropriate level of experience and knowledge about our market areas to implement our community-based operating strategy. Recent changes in labor market conditions have contributed to heightened levels of employee attrition and increased competition for talent, which has in turn driven wage rates higher and may contribute to an increase in operating expenses. The unexpected loss of services of any key management personnel, or the inability to recruit and retain qualified personnel in the future, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Effective succession planning is also important to our long-term success. Failure to ensure effective transfer of knowledge and smooth transitions involving key employees could hinder our strategic planning and execution.
We have a continuing need for technological change, and we may not have the resources to effectively implement new technology.
The financial services industry continues to undergo rapid technological changes with frequent introductions of new technology-driven products and services. In addition to enabling us to better serve our customers, the effective use of technology increases efficiency and the potential for cost reduction. Our future success will depend in part upon our ability and the ability of our third-party partners to address the needs of our customers by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands for convenience as well as to create additional efficiencies in our operations. The widespread adoption of new technologies, including mobile banking services, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies and payment systems, could require us in the future to make substantial expenditures to modify or adapt our existing products and services as we grow and develop new products to satisfy our customers’ expectations and comply with regulatory guidance. Many of our larger competitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. As a result, they may be able to offer additional or superior products to those that we will be able to offer, which would put us at a competitive disadvantage. Accordingly, a risk exists that we will not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and services or be successful in marketing such products and services to our customers.
Issues with the use of artificial intelligence in our marketplace may result in reputational harm or liability, or could otherwise adversely affect our business.
Artificial intelligence, including generative artificial intelligence, is or may be enabled by or integrated into our products or those developed by our third-party partners. As with many developing technologies, artificial intelligence presents risks and challenges that could affect its further development, adoption, and use, and therefore our business. Artificial intelligence algorithms may be flawed, for example datasets may contain biased information or otherwise be insufficient; and inappropriate or controversial data practices could impair the acceptance of artificial intelligence solutions and result in burdensome new regulations. If the analyses that products incorporating artificial intelligence assist in producing for us or our third-party partners are deficient, biased or inaccurate, we could be subject to competitive harm, potential legal liability and brand or reputational harm. The use of artificial intelligence may also present ethical issues. If we or our third-party partners offer artificial intelligence enabled products that are controversial because of their purported or real impact on human rights, privacy, or other issues, we may experience competitive harm, potential legal liability and brand or reputational harm. In addition, we expect that governments will continue to assess and implement new laws and regulations concerning the use of artificial intelligence, which may affect or impair the usability or efficiency of our products and services and those developed by our third-party partners.
We have a substantial amount of debt outstanding and may incur additional indebtedness in the future, which could restrict our operations.
As of December 31, 2023, we had $281.8 million of total indebtedness outstanding at the holding company level. In the future, it is possible that we may not generate sufficient revenues to service or repay our debt, and have sufficient funds left over to achieve or sustain profitability in our operations, meet our working capital and capital expenditure needs, and to pay dividends to our common stockholders. Moreover, the degree to which we are leveraged could have important consequences for our stockholders, including:
● limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate;
● making it more difficult for us to satisfy our debt and other obligations;
● limiting our ability to borrow additional funds, or to sell assets to raise funds, if needed, for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or other purposes;
● increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions, including changes in interest rates; and
● placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt.
Severe weather, natural disasters, pandemics, acts of terrorism or war or other adverse external events could significantly impact the Company's business.
As the Company's operating and market footprint continues to grow, severe weather, natural disasters, pandemics (including the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S.), acts of terrorism or war (including the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict) and other adverse external events could have a significant impact on the Company's ability to conduct business. The Company's current footprint poses a wide variety of potential weather, natural disaster, or other adverse events that could impact the Company in various ways. In addition, such events could affect the stability of the Company's deposit base, impair the ability of borrowers to repay outstanding loans, impair the value of collateral securing loans, cause significant property damage, result in loss of revenue and/or cause the Company to
incur additional expenses. The occurrence of any such event could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, which in turn, could have a material adverse effect on the financial condition and results of operation.
The Company is or may become involved from time to time in suits, legal proceedings, information-gathering requests, investigations and proceedings by governmental and self-regulatory agencies that may lead to adverse consequences.
Many aspects of our business and operations involve the risk of legal liability, and in some cases we or our subsidiaries have been named or threatened to be named as defendants in various lawsuits arising from our business activities. In addition, companies in our industry are frequently the subject of governmental and self-regulatory agency information-gathering requests, reviews, investigations and proceedings. The results of such proceedings could lead to significant civil or criminal penalties, including monetary penalties, damages, adverse judgments, settlements, fines, injunctions, restrictions on the way in which we conduct our business, or reputational harm.
Although we establish accruals for legal proceedings when information related to the loss contingencies represented by those matters indicates both that a loss is probable and that the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated, we do not have accruals for all legal proceedings where we face a risk of loss. In addition, due to the inherent subjectivity of the assessments and unpredictability of the outcome of legal proceedings, amounts accrued may not represent the ultimate loss to us from the legal proceedings in question. Accordingly, our ultimate losses may be higher, and possibly significantly so, than the amounts accrued for legal loss contingencies, which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

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ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
There are no unresolved staff comments.

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Item 2. Properties
The Company’s headquarters is located at 3551 7th Street, Moline, Illinois. The Company and its subsidiaries maintain numerous other facilities, including bank branch locations, which are occupied by the Company and its subsidiaries, and which house the executive and primary administrative offices of each respective entity or otherwise facilitate the business operations of the Company and its subsidiaries. Each such property is leased or owned by the Company or its subsidiaries and no such property is subject to any material encumbrance.
The subsidiary banks intend to limit their investment in premises to no more than 50% of their capital. Management believes that the facilities are of sound construction, in good operating condition, are appropriately insured, and are adequately equipped for carrying on the business of the Company.
No individual real estate property amounts to 10% or more of consolidated assets.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
There are no material pending legal proceedings to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to their respective businesses.

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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
Market Information. The common stock, par value $1.00 per share, of the Company is listed on The Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “QCRH”. The stock began trading on Nasdaq on October 6, 1993. As of February 15, 2024, there were 16,792,880 shares of common stock outstanding held by 644 holders of record. Additionally, there are an estimated 3,700 beneficial holders whose stock was held in the street name by brokerage houses and other nominees as of that date.
Dividends on Common Stock. The Company is heavily dependent on dividend payments from its subsidiary banks to provide cash flow for the operations of the holding company and dividend payments on the Company’s common stock. Under applicable state laws, the banks are restricted as to the maximum amount of dividends that they may pay on their common stock. Applicable Iowa and Missouri laws provide that state-chartered banks in those states may not pay dividends in excess of their undivided profits.
The Company’s ability to pay dividends to its stockholders may be affected by both general corporate law considerations and policies of the Federal Reserve applicable to bank holding companies. The payment of dividends by any financial institution or its holding company is affected by the requirement to maintain adequate capital pursuant to applicable capital adequacy guidelines and regulations, and a financial institution generally is prohibited from paying any dividends if, following payment thereof, the institution would be undercapitalized. See Appendix A “Supervision and Regulation” for additional information regarding regulatory restrictions on the payment of dividends.
The Company also has certain contractual restrictions on its ability to pay dividends. The Company has issued debt securities in public offerings and in private placements. Under the terms of the securities, the Company may be prohibited, under certain circumstances, from paying dividends on shares of its common stock. None of these circumstances existed through the date of filing of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. See Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding dividend restrictions.
Purchase of Equity Securities by the Company. There were 175,000, 970,000 and 293,153 shares of common stock purchased by the Company during the years ending December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. On May 19, 2022, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a share repurchase program under which the Company is authorized to repurchase, from time to time as the Company deems appropriate, up to an additional 1,500,000 shares
of its outstanding common stock, or approximately 10% of the outstanding shares as of December 31, 2021. All shares that were repurchased under the share repurchase program were retired.
Total number of shares
Maximum number
purchased as part of
of shares that may yet
Total number of
Average price
publicly announced
be purchased under
Period
shares purchased
paid per share
plans or programs
the plans or programs
January 1-31, 2023
-
-
1,364,085
935,915
February 1-28, 2023
60,000
$ 53.61
1,424,085
875,915
March 1-31, 2023
92,500
48.62
1,516,585
783,415
April 1-30, 2023
22,500
42.97
1,539,085
760,915
May 1-31, 2023
-
-
1,539,085
760,915
June 1-30, 2023
-
-
1,539,085
760,915
July 1-31, 2023
-
-
1,539,085
760,915
August 1-31, 2023
-
-
1,539,085
760,915
September 1-30, 2023
-
-
1,539,085
760,915
October 1-31, 2023
-
-
1,539,085
760,915
November 1-30, 2023
-
-
1,539,085
760,915
December 1-31, 2023
-
-
1,539,085
760,915
Stockholder Return Performance Graph. The following graph indicates, for the period commencing December 31, 2018 and ending December 31, 2023, a comparison of cumulative total returns for the Company, the Nasdaq Composite Index, and the SNL Bank Nasdaq Index prepared by S&P Global, Charlottesville, Virginia. The graph was prepared at the Company’s request by S&P Global. The information assumes that $100 was invested at the closing price on December 31, 2018 in the common stock of the Company and in each index, and that all dividends were reinvested.
Index
12/31/18
12/31/19
12/31/20
12/31/21
12/31/22
12/31/23
QCR Holdings, Inc.
100.00
137.56
125.15
177.87
158.39
187.23
Nasdaq Composite Index
100.00
136.69
198.10
242.03
163.28
236.17
SNL Bank Nasdaq Index
100.00
136.13
122.09
168.88
132.75
131.57

---

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

---

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
This section generally discusses 2023 and 2022 items and annual comparison between our fiscal 2023 performance compared to our fiscal 2022 performance. A detailed review of our fiscal 2022 performance compared to our fiscal 2021 performance can be found in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations.” This discussion should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying notes thereto included or incorporated by reference elsewhere in this document.
Additionally, a comprehensive list of the acronyms and abbreviations used throughout this discussion is included in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
GENERAL
The Company was formed in February 1993 for the purpose of organizing QCBT. Over the past thirty years, the Company has grown to include four banking subsidiaries and a number of nonbanking subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $8.5 billion in consolidated assets, including $6.5 billion in total loans/leases, and $6.5 billion in deposits. The financial results of acquired/merged entities for the periods since their acquisition/merger are included in this report. Further information related to acquired/merged entities has been presented in the Annual Reports previously filed with the SEC corresponding to the year of each acquisition/merger.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The Company’s financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The financial information contained within these statements is, to a significant extent, financial information that is based on approximate measures of the financial effects of transactions and events that have already occurred. The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with GAAP, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance, determination of the fair value of loans acquired in business combinations, impairment of goodwill, the fair value of financial instruments, and the fair value of securities. A more detailed discussion of these critical accounting policies and estimates can be found in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Based on its consideration of accounting policies and estimates that involve the most complex and subjective decisions and assessments, management has identified the following as critical accounting policies and estimates:
GOODWILL
The Company records all assets and liabilities purchased in an acquisition, including intangibles, at fair value. Goodwill is not amortized but is subject, at a minimum, to annual tests for impairment. In certain situations, interim impairment tests may be required if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount.
The initial recognition of goodwill and subsequent impairment analysis requires us to make subjective judgments concerning estimates of how the acquired assets will perform in the future using valuation methods, which may include using the current market price of stock or discounted cash flow analyses. Additionally, estimated cash flows may extend beyond five years and, by their nature, are difficult to determine over an extended timeframe. Events and factors that may significantly affect the estimates include, among others, competitive forces, customer behaviors, changes in revenue growth trends, cost structures, technology, changes in discount rates and market conditions. In determining the reasonableness of cash flow estimates, the Company reviews historical performance of the underlying assets or similar assets in an effort to assess and validate assumptions utilized in its estimates.
In assessing the fair value of reporting units, we may consider the stage of the current business cycle and potential changes in market conditions. We may also utilize other information to validate the reasonableness of our valuations, including public market comparables and multiples of recent mergers and acquisitions of similar businesses. Valuation multiples may be based on tangible capital ratios of comparable companies and business segments. These multiples
may be adjusted to consider competitive differences, including size, operating leverage and other factors. The carrying amount of a reporting unit is determined based on the capital required to support the reporting unit’s activities, including its tangible and intangible assets. The determination of a reporting unit’s capital allocation requires judgment and considers many factors, including the regulatory capital regulations and capital characteristics of comparably situated companies in relevant industry sectors. In certain circumstances, the Company will engage a third-party to independently validate our assessment of the fair value of our reporting units.
The Company assesses the impairment of goodwill whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors considered important, which could trigger an impairment review, include the following:
● Significant under-performance relative to expected historical or projected future operating results;
● Significant changes in the manner of use of the acquired assets or the strategy for the overall business;
● Significant negative industry or economic trends;
● Significant decline in the market price for our common stock over a sustained period; or
● Market capitalization relative to net book value.
The Company’s management performed an annual assessment at the reporting unit level and determined no goodwill impairment existed as of November 30, 2023.
ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES ON LOANS AND LEASES AND OFF-BALANCE SHEET EXPOSURES
The Company’s allowance methodology incorporates a variety of risk considerations, both quantitative and qualitative, in establishing an allowance that management believes is appropriate at each reporting date. The Company’s methodologies for estimating the ACL consider available relevant information about the collectability of cash flows, including information about past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The methodologies apply historical loss information adjusted for asset-specific characteristics, economic conditions at the measurement date, and forecasts about future economic conditions that are expected to exist through the contractual lives of the financial assets and that are reasonable and supportable to the identified pools of financial assets with similar risk characteristics for which the historical loss experience was observed. If a loan is determined to no longer share similar risk characteristics with other assets in the segmented pool, it is evaluated on an individual basis.
The Company also estimates expected credit losses over the contractual term of the loan for the unfunded portion of the loan commitment that is not unconditionally cancellable by the Company. Management uses an estimated average utilization rate to determine the exposure of default. The allowance for OBS exposures is calculated using probability of default and loss given default using the same segmentation and qualitative factors used for loans and leases.
Although management believes the level of the ACL as of December 31, 2023 was adequate to absorb losses inherent in the loan/lease portfolio, the HTM portfolio and OBS exposures, a decline in local economic conditions, or other factors, could result in increasing losses that cannot be reasonably predicted at this time.
FAIR VALUE OF LOANS ACQUIRED IN BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
Loans acquired in business combinations are initially recorded at fair value as adjusted for credit risk and an allowance for credit losses at the date of acquisition. For loans with no significant evidence of credit deterioration since origination, the difference between the fair value and the unpaid principal balance of the loan at the acquisition date is amortized into interest income using the effective interest method over the remaining period to contractual maturity.
Loans acquired with evidence of deterioration in credit quality since origination, or PCD loans, are accounted for in accordance with ASC Topic 326-20 “Financial instruments - credit losses.” Determining the fair value of the loans involves estimating the amount and timing of principal and interest cash flows initially expected to be collected on the
loans and discounting those cash flows at an appropriate market rate of interest. An allowance for credit losses is recognized by estimating the expected credit losses of the purchased asset and recording an adjustment to the acquisition date fair value to establish the initial amortized cost basis of the asset. Differences between the established fair value, or amortized cost basis, and the unpaid principal balance of the asset is considered to be a non-credit discount/premium and is accreted/amortized into interest income using the interest method in accordance with ASC 310-10. Subsequent changes to the allowance for credit losses are recorded through provision for credit loss expense using the same methodology as other loans held for investment.
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The fair value of a financial instrument is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants in the market in which the reporting entity transacts business. A framework has been established for measuring the fair value of financial instruments that considers the attributes specific to particular assets or liabilities and includes a three-level hierarchy for determining fair value based on the transparency of inputs to each valuation as of the measurement date. The Company estimates the fair value of financial instruments using a variety of valuation methods. When financial instruments are actively traded and have quoted market prices, quoted market prices are used for fair value and are classified as Level 1. When financial instruments, such as investment securities and derivatives, are not actively traded the Company determines fair value based on various sources and may apply matrix pricing with observable prices for similar instruments where a price for the identical instrument is not observable. The fair values of these financial instruments, which are classified as Level 2, are determined by pricing models that consider observable market data such as interest rate volatilities, SOFR yield curve, credit spreads, prices from external market data providers and/or nonbinding broker-dealer quotations. When observable inputs do not exist, the Company estimates fair value based on available market data, and these values are classified as Level 3.
FAIR VALUE OF SECURITIES
The fair value of available for sale and held to maturity debt securities is determined monthly based upon values provided by third parties. Available for sale securities are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported as a component of stockholders’ equity, net of the related tax effect. For both available for sale and held to maturity debt securities, any portion of a decline in value associated with credit loss is recognized in income and with the remaining noncredit related component for available for sale securities being recognized in other comprehensive income. The fair value of trading securities is determined quarterly based upon estimates provided by a third party valuation specialist. Trading securities are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings.
EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
The Company reported net income of $113.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, and diluted EPS of $6.73. For the same period in 2022 the Company reported net income of $99.1 million and diluted EPS of $5.87.
The year ended December 31, 2023 was highlighted by several significant items:
● Record annual net income of $113.6 million, or $6.73 per diluted share;
● Record adjusted net income (non-GAAP) of $115.1 million, or $6.82 per diluted share;
● Record capital markets revenue of $92.1 million, an increase of $50.8 million, or 123%;
● Loan and lease growth of 11% prior to loan securitizations;
● Deposit growth of 9%;
● Tangible book value (non-GAAP) per share increased $6.99, or 19%; and
● Increased TCE/TA ratio (non-GAAP) by 82 basis points to 8.75%.
Following is a table that represents the various net income measurements for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Year Ended December 31,
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Net income
$
113,558
$
99,066
Diluted earnings per common share
$
6.73
$
5.87
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding
16,866,391
16,890,007
The Company reported adjusted net income (non-GAAP) of $115.1 million, with adjusted diluted EPS of $6.82. See section titled “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliations” for additional information. Adjusted net income for the year excludes a number of non-recurring items, after-tax, as set forth in the “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” section.
Following is a table that represents the major income and expense categories.
Year Ended December 31,
(dollars are in thousands)
Net interest income
$
221,006
$
231,120
Provision for credit losses
16,539
8,284
Noninterest income
132,684
80,729
Noninterest expense
210,531
190,016
Federal and state income tax expense
13,062
14,483
Net income
$
113,558
$
99,066
The following are some noteworthy developments in the Company’s financial results:
● Net interest income decreased $10.1 million, or 4.4%, in 2023 compared to the prior year. The decrease in 2023 was primarily due to an increase in the cost of funds on interest-bearing liabilities outpacing the increase in our total earning assets.
● Provision expense increased $8.3 million when comparing 2023 to 2022. The increase in 2023 was due to strong loan growth. See the “Provision for Credit Losses” section of this report for additional details.
● Noninterest income increased $52.0 million, or 64.4% when compared to the prior year. The increase in 2023 was primarily attributable to higher capital markets revenue from swap fees as strong demand for affordable housing by our tax credit lending clients continued. The demand for low-income housing remains healthy and the economics associated with these tax credit projects continue to be favorable. The Company has a strong pipeline for this business and expects it to continue to be a solid source of fee income in 2024.
● Noninterest expense increased $20.5 million, or 10.8%, in 2023 compared to the prior year, primarily due to a full year of Guaranty Bank expenses in 2023, compared to nine months of operating expenses in 2022, due to the acquisition of Guaranty Bank on April 1, 2022. In addition, the Company had increased variable incentive compensation due to the impact of record capital markets performance in 2023. See Note 2 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
STRATEGIC FINANCIAL METRICS
The Company has estopablished strategic financial metrics by which it manages its business and measures its performance. The metrics are periodically updated to reflect business developments. While the Company is determined to work prudently to achieve these metrics, there is no assurance that they will be met. Moreover, the Company’s ability to achieve these metrics may be affected by the factors discussed under “Forward Looking Statements” as well as the factors detailed in the “Risk Factors” section included under Item 1A. of Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The Company’s strategic financial metrics are as follows:
● Grow loans/leases by 9% per year, funded by core deposits;
● Grow fee-based income by at least 6% per year; and
● Limit our annual operating expense growth to 5% per year.
The following table shows the evaluation of the Company’s strategic financial metrics:
For the Year Ending
Strategic Financial Metric*
Key Metric
Target
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Loan and lease growth organically **
Loans and leases growth
> 9% annually
6.6
%
14.6
%
Fee income growth ***
Fee income growth
> 6% annually
75.1
%
(21.5)
%
Improve operational efficiencies and hold noninterest expense growth
Noninterest expense growth
< 5% annually
16.3
%
18.8
%
* The fee income growth and noninterest expense growth calculations provided exclude non-core noninterest income and noninterest expense.
** Loan and lease growth excludes the initial loan balances from the GFED acquisition.
*** Fee income growth and noninterest expense growth are both impacted by the GFED acquisition.
It should be noted that these initiatives are long-term targets.
STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENTS
The Company took the following actions in 2023 to support our corporate strategy and further the strategic financial metrics shown above:
● The Company grew loans and leases in 2023 by 6.6%, or 10.9% when excluding the $264.7 million in loan securitizations completed in the fourth quarter. The loan growth was driven by both LIHTC and our traditional lending and leasing businesses.
● The Company completed two LIHTC loan securitizations in the fourth quarter of 2023, with a total outstanding principal balance of $264.7 million and a total carrying value on these loans of $261.9 million. The first securitization consisted of $128.6 million of tax exempt LIHTC loans through a Freddie Mac sponsored M series transaction. The second securitization consisted of $133.3 million of taxable LIHTC loans through a Freddie Mac sponsored Q series transaction. The Company recorded a net gain on the transactions of $664 thousand reported in capital markets revenue on the consolidated statements of income. The Company plans to continue to utilize securitizations as a liquidity and management tool, and to provide additional capacity to produce LIHTC loans and the related capital markets revenue.
● Correspondent banking continues to be a core line of business for the Company. The Company is competitively positioned with experienced staff, software systems and processes to continue growing in the four states it currently serves - Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri and Illinois. The Company acts as the correspondent bank for 182 downstream banks with total noninterest bearing deposits of $88.5 million and total interest-bearing deposits of $242.3 million as of December 31, 2023. This line of business provides a strong source of noninterest bearing and interest-bearing deposits, fee income, high-quality loan participations and bank stock loans. The Company also manages off-balance sheet liquidity held at the Federal Reserve on behalf of the downstream banks, which totaled $214.9 million as of December 31, 2023 as compared to $339.5 million as of December 31, 2022.
● The Company is focused on executing interest rate swaps on select commercial loans, including LIHTC permanent loans. The interest rate swaps help the commercial borrowers obtain a fixed interest rate while the Company receives a variable interest rate as well as an upfront nonrefundable fee dependent on the pricing. Management believes that these swaps help position the Company more favorably for rising rate
environments. The Company will continue to review opportunities to execute these swaps at all of its subsidiary banks, as the circumstances are appropriate for the borrower and the Company. Levels of capital markets revenue from swap fee income are influenced by prevailing interest rates. Capital markets revenue, primarily from swap fee income totaled $91.4 million in 2023 as compared to $41.3 million in 2022. Capital markets revenue from swap fees averaged $23.0 million per quarter for the year 2023 and $10.3 million per quarter for the year 2022.
● Over many years, the Company has been successful in expanding its wealth management client base. Trust and investment advisory and management fees continue to be a significant contributor to noninterest income. Assets under management increased by $700.7 million in 2023. There were 340 new relationships added in 2023 totaling $762.9 million of new assets under management. Income is generated primarily from fees charged based on assets under administration for corporate and personal trusts and for custodial services. The majority of the trust fees are determined based on the value of the investments within the fully-managed trusts. Similar to trust fees, investment advisory and management fees are largely determined based on the value of the investments managed. The Company expects trust and investment advisory and management fees to be negatively impacted during periods of lower market valuations and positively impacted during periods of higher market valuations. The Company has expanded its wealth management client base into the Springfield, Missouri market.
● Noninterest expense in 2023 totaled $210.5 million as compared to $190.0 million in 2022. The increase was primarily due to twelve months of GFED operating expenses reflected in the Company’s 2023 results as compared to nine months of such operating expenses reflected in the Company’s 2022 results, as well as increased variable incentive compensation due to the impact of record capital markets performance in 2023.
GAAP TO NON-GAAP RECONCILIATIONS
The following table presents certain non-GAAP financial measures related to the “TCE/TA ratio”, “adjusted net income”, “adjusted EPS”, “adjusted ROAA”, “NIM (TEY)”, “adjusted NIM” and “efficiency ratio”. In compliance with applicable rules of the SEC, all non-GAAP measures are reconciled to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, as follows:
● TCE/TA ratio (non-GAAP) is reconciled to stockholders’ equity and total assets;
● Adjusted net income, adjusted EPS and adjusted ROAA (all non-GAAP measures) are reconciled to net income;
● NIM (TEY) (non-GAAP) and adjusted NIM (TEY) (non-GAAP) are reconciled to NIM; and
● Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP) is reconciled to noninterest expense, net interest income and noninterest income.
The TCE/TA non-GAAP ratio has been a focus for our investors and management believes that this ratio may assist investors in analyzing the Company’s capital position without regard to the effects of intangible assets.
The following tables also include several “adjusted” non-GAAP measurements of financial performance. The Company’s management believes that these measures are important to investors as they exclude non-core or non-recurring income and expense items; therefore, they provide a better comparison for analysis and may provide a better indicator of future performance.
NIM (TEY) is a financial measure that the Company’s management utilizes to take into account the tax benefit associated with certain loans and securities. It is standard industry practice to measure net interest margin using tax-equivalent measures. In addition, the Company calculates NIM without the impact of acquisition accounting net accretion (adjusted NIM), as accretion amounts can fluctuate a great deal, making comparisons difficult.
The efficiency ratio is a ratio that management utilizes to compare the Company to peers. It is standard in the banking industry and widely utilized by investors.
Non-GAAP financial measures have inherent limitations, are not required to be uniformly applied, and are not audited. Although these non-GAAP financial measures are frequently used by investors to evaluate a company, they have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for analyses of results as reported under GAAP.
As of
GAAP TO NON-GAAP
December 31,
December 31,
RECONCILIATIONS
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
TCE/TA RATIO
Stockholders' equity (GAAP)
$
886,596
$
772,724
Less: Intangible assets
152,848
154,366
TCE (non-GAAP)
$
733,748
$
618,358
Total assets (GAAP)
$
8,538,894
$
7,948,837
Less: Intangible assets
152,848
154,366
TA (non-GAAP)
$
8,386,046
$
7,794,471
TCE/TA ratio (non-GAAP)
8.75
%
7.93
%
For the Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
ADJUSTED NET INCOME
Net income (GAAP)
$
113,558
$
99,066
Less non-core items (post-tax) (*):
Income:
Securities losses, net
$
(356)
$
-
Fair value gain(loss) on derivatives, net
(997)
1,560
Total non-core income (non-GAAP)
$
(1,353)
$
1,560
Expense:
Acquisition costs
$
-
$
3,198
Post-acquisition compensation, transition and integration costs
4,366
CECL Day 2 credit loss expense on acquired loans
-
8,651
CECL Day 2 credit loss expense on acquired OBS exposure
-
1,140
Total non-core expense (non-GAAP)
$
$
17,355
Adjusted net income (non-GAAP)
$
115,075
$
114,861
ADJUSTED EPS
Adjusted net income (non-GAAP) (from above)
$
115,075
$
114,861
Weighted average common shares outstanding
16,732,406
16,681,844
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding
16,866,391
16,890,007
Adjusted EPS (non-GAAP):
Basic
$
6.88
$
6.89
Diluted
$
6.82
$
6.80
ADJUSTED ROAA (non-GAAP)
Adjusted net income (non-GAAP) (from above)
$
115,075
$
114,861
Average Assets
$
8,165,805
$
7,206,180
Adjusted ROAA (non-GAAP)
1.41
%
1.59
%
ADJUSTED NIM (TEY)*
Net interest income (GAAP)
$
221,006
$
231,120
Plus: Tax equivalent adjustment
28,237
16,340
Net interest income - tax equivalent (non-GAAP)
$
249,243
$
247,460
Less: Acquisition accounting net accretion
2,173
8,581
Adjusted net interest income
$
247,070
$
238,879
Average earning assets
$
7,435,361
$
6,628,224
NIM (GAAP)
2.97
%
3.49
%
NIM (TEY) (non-GAAP)
3.35
%
3.73
%
Adjusted NIM (TEY) (non-GAAP)
3.32
%
3.60
%
EFFICIENCY RATIO
Noninterest expense (GAAP)
$
210,531
$
190,016
Net interest income (GAAP)
$
221,006
$
231,120
Noninterest income (GAAP)
132,684
80,729
Total income
$
353,690
$
311,849
Efficiency ratio (noninterest expense/total income) (non-GAAP)
59.52
%
60.93
%
* Non-core or non-recurring items (after-tax) are calculated using an estimated effective tax rate of 21% with the exception of acquisition costs which has an estimated effective tax rate of 13.62%.
NET INTEREST INCOME AND MARGIN (TAX EQUIVALENT BASIS)
Net interest income decreased 4% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the prior year. Net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis (non-GAAP), increased 1% to $249.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to the prior year. Net interest income changed primarily due to the Company’s increase in cost of funds with a shift of the composition of deposits from noninterest and lower beta deposits to higher beta deposits, which more than offset the continued expansion of loan and investment yields.
A comparison of yields, spread and margin on a GAAP and tax equivalent basis is as follows:
GAAP
Tax Equivalent Basis
For the Year Ended
For the Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
December 31,
December 31,
Average Yield on Interest-Earning Assets
5.56
%
4.41
%
5.94
%
4.66
%
Average Cost of Interest-Bearing Liabilities
3.31
%
1.28
%
3.31
%
1.28
%
Net Interest Spread
2.25
%
3.13
%
2.63
%
3.38
%
NIM (TEY) (Non-GAAP)
2.97
%
3.49
%
3.35
%
3.73
%
NIM Excluding Acquisition Accounting Net Accretion (Non-GAAP)
2.94
%
3.36
%
3.32
%
3.60
%
Acquisition accounting net accretion can fluctuate, mostly depending on the payoff or renewal activity of the acquired loans. In evaluating net interest income and NIM, it's important to understand the impact of acquisition accounting net accretion when comparing periods. The above table reports NIM with and without the acquisition accounting net accretion to allow for additional comparisons. A comparison of acquisition accounting net accretion included in NIM is as follows:
For the Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Acquisition Accounting Net Accretion in NIM
$
2,173
$
8,581
The Company's management closely monitors and manages NIM. From a profitability standpoint, an important challenge for the Company's subsidiary banks and equipment financing/leasing company is focusing on quality growth in conjunction with the improvement of their NIMs. Management continually addresses this issue with pricing and other balance sheet management strategies which included better loan pricing, reducing reliance on rate-sensitive funding, closely managing deposit rate increases and finding additional ways to manage cost of funds through derivatives.
The Company’s average balances, interest income/expense, and rates earned/paid on major balance sheet categories are presented in the following table:
Year Ended December 31,
Interest
Average
Interest
Average
Interest
Average
Average
Earned
Yield or
Average
Earned
Yield or
Average
Earned
Yield or
Balance
or Paid
Cost
Balance
or Paid
Cost
Balance
or Paid
Cost
(dollars in thousands)
ASSETS
Interest earning assets:
Federal funds sold
$
19,110
$
5.22
%
$
14,436
$
2.84
%
$
1,964
$
0.10
%
Interest-bearing deposits at financial institutions
80,924
4,137
5.11
63,448
1,089
1.72
116,421
0.15
Investment securities - taxable
346,579
14,927
4.30
335,255
12,078
3.59
304,787
8,923
2.92
Investment securities - nontaxable (1)
611,924
28,272
4.62
575,457
24,281
4.22
499,849
20,581
4.12
Restricted investment securities
39,273
2,346
5.89
35,554
2,068
5.73
19,386
4.83
Gross loans/leases receivable (1) (2) (3)
6,337,551
390,967
6.17
5,604,074
268,985
4.80
4,456,461
179,738
4.03
Total interest earning assets
$
7,435,361
441,647
5.94
$
6,628,224
308,911
4.66
$
5,398,868
210,367
3.90
Noninterest-earning assets:
Cash and due from banks
$
80,386
$
75,975
$
60,298
Premises and equipment
119,177
106,591
75,015
Less allowance
(86,983)
(85,745)
(81,633)
Other
617,684
481,135
420,809
Total assets
$
8,165,625
$
7,206,180
$
5,873,357
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing deposits
$
4,191,913
121,662
2.90
%
$
3,715,017
35,359
0.95
%
$
3,058,917
8,621
0.28
%
Time deposits
1,010,827
37,784
3.74
568,245
7,003
1.23
448,191
4,679
1.04
Short-term borrowings
2,781
6.44
8,637
3.46
6,281
0.08
FHLB advances
323,904
16,740
5.10
286,474
6,954
2.39
23,389
0.30
Other borrowings
-
-
-
1,068
4.96
-
-
-
Subordinated notes
232,837
13,230
5.68
165,685
9,200
5.55
115,398
6,272
5.44
Junior subordinated debentures
48,662
2,836
5.75
45,497
2,583
5.60
38,067
2,276
5.90
Total interest-bearing liabilities
$
5,810,924
192,404
3.31
$
4,790,623
61,451
1.28
$
3,690,243
21,923
0.59
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits
$
1,123,050
$
1,393,284
$
1,269,467
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities
406,274
274,241
276,457
Total liabilities
$
7,340,248
$
6,458,148
$
5,236,167
Stockholders' equity
825,557
748,032
637,190
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
8,165,805
$
7,206,180
$
5,873,357
Net interest income
$
249,243
$
247,460
$
188,444
Net interest spread
2.63
%
3.38
%
3.31
%
Net interest margin
2.97
%
3.49
%
3.30
%
Net interest margin (TEY)(Non-GAAP)
3.35
%
3.73
%
3.49
%
Adjusted net interest margin (TEY)(Non-GAAP)
3.32
%
3.60
%
3.47
%
Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities
127.95
%
138.36
%
146.30
%
(1) Interest earned and yields on nontaxable investment securities and loans are determined on a tax equivalent basis using a 21% tax rate.
(2) Loan/lease fees are not material and are included in interest income from loans/leases receivable in accordance with accounting and regulatory guidance.
(3) Non-accrual loans/leases are included in the average balance for gross loans/leases receivable in accordance with accounting and regulatory guidance.
The Company’s components of change in net interest income are presented in the following table:
For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Inc./(Dec.)
Components
Inc./(Dec.)
Components
from
of Change (1)
from
of Change (1)
Prior Year
Rate
Volume
Prior Year
Rate
Volume
2023 vs. 2022
2022 vs. 2021
(dollars in thousands)
(dollars in thousands)
INTEREST INCOME
Federal funds sold
$
$
$
$
$
$
Interest-bearing deposits at financial institutions
3,048
2,674
1,030
(114)
Investment securities - taxable
2,849
2,433
3,155
2,197
Investment securities - nontaxable (2)
3,991
2,392
1,599
3,700
3,188
Restricted investment securities
1,118
Gross loans/leases receivable (2) (3)
121,982
83,631
38,351
89,247
38,013
51,234
Total change in interest income
$
132,736
$
91,613
$
41,123
$
98,544
$
42,290
$
56,254
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest-bearing deposits
86,303
81,223
5,080
26,738
24,539
2,199
Time deposits
30,781
22,278
8,503
2,324
1,382
Short-term borrowings
(147)
(292)
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
9,786
8,774
1,012
6,884
2,634
4,250
Other borrowings
(53)
(27)
(26)
-
Subordinated notes
4,030
3,810
2,928
2,798
Junior subordinated debentures
(118)
Total change in interest expense
$
130,953
$
112,683
$
18,270
$
39,528
$
28,418
$
11,110
Total change in net interest income
$
1,783
$
(21,070)
$
22,853
$
59,016
$
13,872
$
45,144
(1) The column "Inc/(Dec) from Prior Year" is segmented into the changes attributable to variations in volume and the changes attributable to changes in interest rates. The variations attributable to simultaneous volume and rate changes have been proportionately allocated to rate and volume.
(2) Interest earned and yields on nontaxable investment securities and loans are determined on a tax equivalent basis using a 21% tax rate.
(3) Loan/lease fees are not material and are included in interest income from loans/leases receivable in accordance with accounting and regulatory guidance.
The Company’s operating results are also impacted by various sources of noninterest income, including trust fees, investment advisory and management fees, deposit service fees, capital markets revenue, including swap fee income and gains on loan securitizations, gains from the sales of residential real estate loans and government guaranteed loans, earnings on BOLI, and other income. Offsetting these items, the Company incurs noninterest expenses, which include salaries and employee benefits, occupancy and equipment expense, professional and data processing fees, FDIC and other insurance expense, loan/lease expense and other administrative expenses.
The Company’s operating results are also affected by economic and competitive conditions, particularly changes in interest rates, income tax rates, government policies and actions of regulatory authorities.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 and 2022
INTEREST INCOME
For 2023, interest income increased $120.8 million, or 41%, compared to 2022. This was due to continued loan growth and repricing of the Company’s floating rate loan portfolio with rapidly rising interest rates as well as a full year of GFED income reflected in the Company’s 2023 results, compared to nine months of such income reflected in the Company’s 2022 results.
The Company intends to continue to grow quality loans and leases as well as its private placement tax-exempt securities portfolio to maximize yield while minimizing credit and interest rate risk.
INTEREST EXPENSE
Comparing 2023 to 2022, interest expense increased $131.0 million, or 213%, year-over-year. The increase is primarily due to a significant increase in cost of funds given the sharp rising rate environment and the shift of the composition of deposits from noninterest bearing and lower beta deposits to higher beta deposits as well as a full year of GFED expense reflected in the Company’s 2023 results, compared to nine months of such expense reflected in the Company’s 2022 results. The Company’s cost of funds was 3.31% for the year ending December 31, 2023, which was up from 1.28% for the year ending December 31, 2022.
PROVISION FOR CREDIT LOSSES
The ACL is established through provision for credit losses expense to provide an estimated ACL. The following table shows the components for the provision for credit losses for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Provision for credit losses - loans and leases
$
11,550
$
9,636
Provision for credit losses - off-balance sheet exposures
3,977
(1,334)
Provision for credit losses - held to maturity securities
(18)
Provision for credit losses - available for sale securities
-
Total provision for credit losses
$
16,539
$
8,284
The Company’s total provision for credit losses was $16.5 million for 2023, an increase of $8.2 million from 2022. The increase in provision for credit losses on loans and leases was driven by the loan growth and higher criticized loan balances. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the provision for credit losses related to OBS was $4.0 million, compared to a negative $1.3 million provision for the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase was due to an increase in the balance of unfunded commitments as there was a surge in commitments in the LIHTC lending business during the year. The provision related to HTM securities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $23 thousand as compared to a negative $18 thousand provision for the year ended December 31, 2022. There was a $989 thousand provision related to AFS securities for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared to no provision for the prior year. The increase was entirely due to an impairment of one subordinated debt investment in a failed bank in the first quarter of 2023. This was a legacy investment acquired as part of the 2022 GFED acquisition and an allowance was established for the entire balance of the investment.
The ACL for loans and leases is established based on a number of factors, including the Company’s historical loss experience, delinquencies and charge-off trends, economic and other forecasts, the local, state and national economies and the risk associated with the loans/leases and securities in the portfolio as described in more detail in the “Critical Accounting Policies and Critical Accounting Estimates” section.
The Company had an ACL on loans/leases of 1.33% of gross loans/leases held for investment at December 31, 2023, compared to 1.43% of gross loans/leases held for investment at December 31, 2022. Management evaluates the allowance needed on the loans acquired in previous acquisitions factoring in the remaining discount, which was $3.9 million and $6.1 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Additional discussion of the Company’s allowance can be found in the “Financial Condition” section of this report.
NONINTEREST INCOME
The following tables set forth the various categories of noninterest income for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
$ Change
% Change
(dollars in thousands)
Trust fees
$
11,697
$
10,641
$
1,056
9.9
%
Investment advisory and management fees
3,864
3,858
0.2
Deposit service fees
8,177
8,134
0.5
Gains on sales of residential real estate loans, net
1,611
2,411
(800)
(33.2)
Gains on sales of government guaranteed portions of loans, net
(65)
(54.6)
Capital markets revenue
92,065
41,309
50,756
122.9
Securities losses, net
(451)
-
(451)
(100.0)
Earnings on bank-owned life insurance
4,184
2,056
2,128
103.5
Debit card fees
6,200
5,459
13.6
Correspondent banking fees
1,662
71.9
Loan related fee income
3,066
2,428
26.3
Fair value gain (loss) on derivatives
(1,262)
1,975
(3,237)
(163.9)
Other
1,817
1,372
32.4
Total noninterest income
$
132,684
$
80,729
$
51,955
64.4
%
Certain increases in these categories were due to the GFED acquisition, as there was a full year of GFED income reflected in the Company’s 2023 results, compared to nine months of such income reflected in the Company’s 2022 results. The GFED acquisition is further described in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Company has been successful in expanding its wealth management customer base. Trust fees continue to be a significant contributor to noninterest income. Assets under management increased by $700.7 million in 2023 with 340 new relationships totaling $762.9 million in new assets under management. Income is generated primarily from fees charged based on assets under administration for corporate and personal trusts and for custodial services. The majority of the trust fees are determined based on the value of the investments within the fully-managed trusts. Trust fees increased 10% in 2023 as compared to 2022 due to growth in assets under management. The Company expects trust fees to be negatively impacted during periods of significantly lower market valuations and positively impacted during periods of significantly higher market valuation. During 2023, the Company expanded its wealth management customer base into the Springfield, Missouri market.
Investment advisory and management fees remained stable in 2023 as compared to 2022. Similar to trust fees, fees from these services are largely determined based on the value of the investments managed. As a result, fee income from this line of business fluctuates with market valuations.
Deposit service fees remained stable in 2023 as compared to 2022. This was the result of core deposit growth offset by a decrease in NSF and service charge fee income. The Company continues to be successful in expanding its core deposit base.
Gains on sales of residential real estate loans, net, decreased 33% in 2023 as compared to 2022. The decrease was primarily due to decreased residential real estate purchases and the refinancing of residential real estate loans with the sharp increase in mortgage rates.
The Company has grown its capital markets revenue significantly over the past several years. The Company’s interest rate swap program consists of back-to-back interest rate swaps with two types of commercial borrowers: (1) traditional commercial loans of a certain minimum size and sophistication, and (2) LIHTC permanent loans. Most of the growth
has been in the latter category as the Company has grown relationships with strong LIHTC developers with many years of experience. The LIHTC industry is strong and growing with an increased need for affordable housing. The interest rate swaps help the commercial borrowers to obtain a fixed interest rate while the Company receives a variable interest rate as well as an upfront nonrefundable fee dependent upon the pricing.
Capital markets revenue totaled $92.1 million in 2023 as compared to $41.3 million in 2022. The increase was due to higher revenue from swap fees due to improvements in the supply chain and resetting of the debt and equity needs for the current interest rate environment. In the traditional commercial portfolio, the pricing is more competitive and the duration is shorter as compared to the LIHTC permanent loans. Therefore, the mix of loans with interest rate swaps continued to be heavily weighted towards LIHTC permanent loans. Future levels of swap fee income are dependent upon the needs of our traditional commercial and LIHTC borrowers, and the size of the related nonrefundable swap fee may fluctuate depending on the interest rate environment.
Also included in capital markets revenue are gains on loan securitizations. The Company had two LIHTC securitizations that closed in the fourth quarter of 2023 which resulted in a net gain of $644 thousand. The Company expects LIHTC securitizations to continue on as a tool to manage liquidity and to provide capacity for continued LIHTC loan production.
Securities losses, net of gains totaled $451 thousand in 2023. There were no securities gains or losses in 2022. The Company sold $30 million of securities during the first quarter of 2023. The securities sold were part of a strategy to partially deleverage the balance sheet and reduce higher cost borrowings and the related negative arbitrage. The losses were successfully earned back within the calendar year.
Earnings on BOLI increased 104% in 2023. The increase is primarily due to income of $1.1 million on death benefit proceeds of a former executive that were received in 2023. There were no purchases of BOLI in 2023. There were $10.0 million of purchases of BOLI in 2022. Yields on BOLI (based on a simple average and excluding the impact of the federal income tax exemption) were 2.82% for 2023 and 1.92% for 2022. Notably, a portion of the Company’s BOLI is variable rate whereby the returns are determined by the performance of the equity markets. Management intends to continue to review its BOLI investments to be consistent with policy and regulatory limits in conjunction with the rest of its earning assets in an effort to maximize returns while minimizing risk.
Debit card fees are the interchange fees paid on certain debit card customer transactions. Debit card fees increased 14% in 2023. The increase was primarily due to the GFED acquisition. These fees can vary based on customer debit card usage, so fluctuations from period to period may occur. As an opportunity to maximize fees, the Company offers deposit products with a higher interest rate that incentivizes debit card activity.
Correspondent banking fees increased 72% in 2023 primarily due to a shift of correspondent banking balances from non-interest bearing accounts to interest bearing accounts, in light of increasing rates. Fees from correspondent banks generally increase when non-interest bearing account balances decrease due to lower associated earnings credits. Correspondent banking continues to be a core strategy for the Company, as this line of business provides a high level of deposits that can be used to fund loan growth as well as a steady source of fee income. The Company now serves 182 banks in Iowa, Illinois, Missouri and Wisconsin.
Loan related fee income increased 26% in 2023. The increase was primarily due to loan growth.
Fair value gain (loss) on derivatives decreased 164% in 2023. The decrease was due to the rapidly rising interest rate environment and the derivatives winding down closer to maturity. The Company uses unhedged cap instruments to manage interest rate risk related to the variability of interest payments due to changes in interest rates. See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Other noninterest income increased 32% in 2023. Included in other noninterest income is income on equity investments. Income on equity investments is largely determined based on the market value of the investments. As a result, income fluctuates with market valuations.
NONINTEREST EXPENSES
The following tables set forth the various categories of noninterest expenses for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Year Ended
December 31,
December 31,
$ Change
% Change
(dollars in thousands)
Salaries and employee benefits
$
136,619
$
115,368
$
21,251
18.4
%
Occupancy and equipment expense
25,031
21,975
3,056
13.9
Professional and data processing fees
16,271
16,282
(11)
(0.1)
Acquisition costs
-
3,715
(3,715)
(100.0)
Post-acquisition compensation, transition and integration costs
5,526
(5,319)
(96.3)
FDIC insurance, other insurance and regulatory fees
7,137
5,806
1,331
22.9
Loan/lease expense
2,868
1,829
1,039
56.8
Net cost of and gains/losses on operations of real estate
(26)
(40)
(35.0)
Advertising and marketing
6,042
4,958
1,084
21.9
Communication and data connectivity
2,063
2,213
(150)
(6.8)
Supplies
1,254
1,109
13.1
Bank service charges
2,592
2,282
13.6
Correspondent banking expense
14.6
Intangibles amortization
2,938
2,854
2.9
Payment card processing
2,656
1,964
35.2
Trust expense
1,396
80.1
Other
2,520
2,560
(40)
(1.6)
Total noninterest expense
$
210,531
$
190,016
$
20,515
10.8
%
Management places strong emphasis on overall cost containment and is committed to improving the Company’s general efficiency. Certain increases in these categories were due to the GFED acquisition, as there were a full year of GFED expenses reflected in the Company’s 2023 results, compared to nine months of such expenses reflected in the Company’s 2022 results. The GFED acquisition is further described in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Salaries and employee benefits, which is the largest component of noninterest expense, increased 18% in 2023 as compared to 2022. This increase was primarily related to higher variable incentive compensation for record capital markets revenue in 2023, and to the GFED acquisition.
Occupancy and equipment expense increased 14% in 2023 as compared to 2022. This increase was due to higher depreciation expense and computer hardware expense, including with respect to the GFED acquisition.
Professional and data processing fees remained stable as compared to 2022. Generally, professional and data processing fees can fluctuate depending on certain one-time project costs. Management will continue to focus on minimizing such one-time costs and driving recurring costs down through contract negotiation or managed reduction in activity where costs are determined on a usage basis.
There were no acquisition costs in 2023. Acquisition costs totaled $3.7 million in 2022. These costs were comprised of primarily legal, accounting and other professional fees related to the GFED acquisition.
Post-acquisition compensation, transition and integration costs totaled $207 thousand in 2023 and $5.5 million in 2022. These costs were comprised primarily of personnel costs, IT integration, and conversion costs related to the acquisition of GFED in 2022.
FDIC insurance, other insurance and regulatory fee expense increased 23% in 2023. The increase in expense was due to an increase in the asset size of the Company and an increase in announced FDIC rates for 2023, which increased the Company’s insurance rates and expenses.
Loan/lease expense increased 57% in 2023 as compared to 2022. Generally, loan/lease expense has a direct relationship with the level of NPLs; however, it may deviate depending upon the individual NPLs. NPLs have increased 274% since December 31, 2022 driven by three client relationships from unrelated industries.
Net cost of (income from) and gains/losses on operations of other real estate includes gains/losses on the sale of OREO, write-downs of OREO and all income/expenses associated with OREO. Net income from operations totaled $26 thousand for 2023 as compared to $40 thousand for 2022.
Advertising and marketing expense increased 22% in 2023 as compared to 2022. The increase in expense was primarily due to increased marketing of our deposit products as well as the GFED acquisition, in which 2023 had twelve months of expenses compared to nine months of expenses in 2022.
Communication and data connectivity expense decreased 7% in 2023 as compared to 2022. The decrease is primarily due to improvements to our data center connectivity channels and a reduction in cell phone and air card expenses as the Company continues to improve operational efficiencies.
Supplies expense increased 13% in 2023 as compared to 2022. The increase is primarily due to inflationary factors and the GFED acquisition.
Bank service charges, a large portion of which includes indirect costs incurred to provide services to QCBT’s correspondent banking customer portfolio, increased 14% in 2023 as compared to 2022. As transaction volumes continue to increase and the number of correspondent banking clients increases, the associated expenses is expected to also increase.
Correspondent banking expense increased 15% in 2023 as compared to 2022. These are direct costs incurred to provide services to QCBT’s correspondent banking customer portfolio, including safekeeping and cash management services.
Intangible amortization expense increased 3% in 2023 as compared to 2022. The increase is due to the GFED acquisition. These expenses will naturally decrease as intangibles become fully amortized unless there is an addition to intangible assets.
Payment card processing expense increased 35% in 2023 as compared to 2022. The increase is due to the GFED acquisition.
Trust expense increased 80% in 2023 as compared to 2022. The increase was due to new relationships added in 2023 with the addition of $762.9 million of new assets under management as well as costs for a conversion to a new core operating system and start-up expenses in Springfield market.
Other noninterest expense decreased 2% in 2023 as compared to 2022. The decrease was due primarily to lower excise tax on lower stock repurchases in 2023. Also included in other noninterest expense are other items such as meals and entertainment, subscriptions, sales and use tax and expenses related to wealth management.
INCOME TAX EXPENSE
The provision for income taxes was $13.1 million for 2023, or an effective tax rate of 10.3%, compared to $14.5 million for 2022, or an effective tax rate of 12.7%. Refer to the reconciliation of the expected income tax rate to the effective tax rate that is included in Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional details.
FINANCIAL CONDITION AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2023 AND 2022
OVERVIEW
Following is a table that represents the major categories of the Company’s balance sheet.
As of December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Amount
%
Amount
%
Cash, federal funds sold, and interest-bearing deposits
$
237,492
%
$
183,993
%
Securities
1,005,528
%
928,102
%
Net loans/leases
6,456,216
%
6,051,165
%
Derivatives
187,341
%
177,631
%
Other assets
652,317
%
607,946
%
Total assets
$
8,538,894
%
$
7,948,837
%
Total deposits
$
6,514,005
%
$
5,984,217
%
Total borrowings
718,295
%
825,894
%
Derivatives
215,735
%
200,701
%
Other liabilities
204,263
%
165,301
%
Total stockholders' equity
886,596
%
772,724
%
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
8,538,894
%
$
7,948,837
%
In 2023, total assets increased $590.1 million, or 7%. The Company’s securities portfolio increased $77.4 million, or 8%, during 2023. The Company’s net loan/lease portfolio increased $405.1 million, or 7%, during 2023. Deposits grew $529.8 million, or 9%, during 2023. Borrowings decreased $107.6 million, or 13%, during 2023 due primarily to an increase in core deposits which allowed borrowings to mature.
INVESTMENT SECURITIES
The composition of the Company’s securities portfolio is managed to meet liquidity needs while prioritizing the impact on interest rate risk and maximizing return, while minimizing credit risk. Over the recent years, the Company has continued to change the mix of the portfolio by decreasing U.S government sponsored agency securities, while increasing tax-exempt municipal securities. Of the latter, the large majority are privately placed tax-exempt debt issuances by municipalities located in the Midwest (with some in or near the Company’s existing markets) that require a thorough underwriting process before investment and are generated by our specialty finance group.
Trading securities had a fair value of $22.4 million as of December 31, 2023 and consisted of retained beneficial interests acquired in conjunction with the loan securitizations completed by the Company in 2023.
Following is a breakdown of the Company’s securities portfolio by type, the percentage of net unrealized gains (losses) to carrying value on the total portfolio, and the portfolio duration as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Amount
%
Amount
%
(dollars in thousands)
U.S. treasuries and govt. sponsored agency securities
$
14,973
%
$
16,981
%
Municipal securities
853,442
%
779,270
%
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
59,196
%
66,215
%
Asset-backed securities
15,423
%
18,728
%
Other securities
40,125
%
46,908
%
Trading securities
22,369
%
-
-
%
$
1,005,528
%
$
928,102
%
Securities as a % of total assets
11.78
%
11.68
%
Net unrealized losses as a % of Amortized Cost
(4.96)
%
(11.26)
%
Duration (in years)
6.2
7.7
Annual yield on investment securities (tax equivalent)
4.30
%
3.99
%
Due to continued increases in intermediate and long-term interest rates during 2023, which directly impact the fair value of the Company’s AFS portfolio, the AFS portfolio declined $41.3 million, or 12.1%, from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023.
The Company has not invested in non-agency commercial or residential mortgage-backed securities or pooled trust preferred securities.
The following is a breakdown of the weighted-average yield for each range of maturities by category of debt securities that are not held at fair value:
Weighted
Amortized
Average
Cost*
Yield
(dollars in thousands)
Municipal securities:
Within 1 year
$
1,876
4.04
%
After 1 but within 5 years
26,243
5.75
%
After 5 but within 10 years
83,955
5.24
%
After 10 years
570,583
4.45
%
Total
$
682,657
4.60
%
Other securities:
After 1 but within 5 years
$
1,050
4.51
%
Total
$
1,050
4.51
%
Total HTM Securities
$
683,707
* Amortized cost above excludes ACL of $203 thousand.
The weighted-average yield is calculated by dividing the total interest for each security per maturity range by the total amortized cost within that maturity range. Yields are not computed on a tax equivalent basis.
There have been no major changes within the tax-exempt portfolio.
See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the Company’s investment securities.
LOANS/LEASES
During 2023, total loans/leases grew 6.6% or 10.9% when excluding the $264.7 million in loan securitizations completed in the fourth quarter. The mix of loan/lease types within the Company’s loan/lease portfolio is presented in the following tables.
As of
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Amount
%
Amount
%
(dollars in thousands)
C&I - revolving
$
325,243
%
$
296,869
%
C&I - other
1,481,778
%
1,451,693
CRE - owner occupied
607,365
%
629,367
CRE - non-owner occupied
1,008,892
%
963,239
Construction and land development
1,420,525
%
1,192,061
Multi-family
996,143
%
963,803
Direct financing leases
31,164
%
31,889
1-4 family real estate
544,971
%
499,529
Consumer
127,335
%
110,421
Total loans/leases
$
6,543,416
%
$
6,138,871
%
Less allowance
(87,200)
(87,706)
Net loans/leases
$
6,456,216
$
6,051,165
As CRE loans have historically been the Company’s largest portfolio segment, management places a strong emphasis on monitoring the composition of the Company’s CRE loan portfolio. For example, management tracks the level of owner-occupied CRE loans relative to non-owner-occupied loans because owner-occupied loans are generally considered to have less risk. Additionally, the Company reviews CRE concentrations by industry in relation to risk-based capital on a quarterly basis. Approximately 39% of the CRE portfolio are LIHTC loans of which all are performing and all are pass rated.
Historically, the Company structures most residential real estate loans to conform to the underwriting requirements of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae to allow the subsidiary banks to resell the loans on the secondary market to avoid the interest rate risk associated with longer term fixed rate loans and recognizing noninterest income from the gain on sale. Loans originated for this purpose were classified as held for sale and are included in the residential real estate loans in the table above. Historically, the subsidiary banks structure most loans that will not conform to those underwriting requirements as adjustable-rate mortgages that mature or adjust in one to five years, and then retain these loans in their portfolios. The Company also holds 15-year fixed rate residential real estate loans originated in prior years that met certain credit guidelines. In addition, the Company has not originated any subprime, Alt-A, no documentation, or stated income residential real estate loans throughout its history.
The following tables set forth the remaining maturities by loan/lease type as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Maturities are based on contractual dates.
As of December 31, 2023
Maturities After One Year
Due in one
Due after one
Due after 5
Due after
Predetermined
Adjustable
year or less
through 5 years
through 15 years
15 years
interest rates
interest rates
(dollars in thousands)
C&I - revolving
$
233,863
$
82,045
$
9,335
$
-
$
22,493
$
68,887
C&I - other
255,913
738,966
355,756
131,143
821,463
404,402
CRE - owner occupied
47,107
331,933
205,090
23,235
381,218
179,040
CRE - non-owner occupied
131,038
665,220
177,934
34,700
683,516
194,338
Construction and land development
269,193
256,029
82,176
813,127
223,164
928,168
Multi-family
17,873
178,245
275,159
524,866
170,477
807,793
Direct financing leases
1,710
29,043
-
29,454
-
1-4 family real estate
22,368
172,885
169,420
180,298
410,837
111,766
Consumer
10,269
53,736
62,807
56,048
61,018
$
989,334
$
2,508,102
$
1,338,088
$
1,707,892
$
2,798,670
$
2,755,412
As of December 31, 2022
Maturities After One Year
Due in one
Due after one
Due after
Due after
Predetermined
Adjustable
year or less
through 5 years
5 years
15 years
interest rates
interest rates
(dollars in thousands)
C&I - revolving
$
209,006
$
80,044
$
7,819
$
-
$
19,239
$
68,624
C&I - other
289,733
722,893
269,304
169,763
836,744
325,216
CRE - owner occupied
52,577
330,659
206,539
39,592
380,984
195,806
CRE - non-owner occupied
96,455
604,487
217,310
44,987
629,656
237,128
Construction and land development
229,992
240,920
42,180
678,969
221,366
740,703
Multi-family
23,053
105,504
312,482
522,764
124,793
815,957
Direct financing leases
1,843
28,694
1,352
-
30,046
-
1-4 family real estate
26,753
146,524
170,636
155,616
374,875
97,901
Consumer
13,965
44,403
50,878
1,175
36,218
60,238
$
943,377
$
2,304,128
$
1,278,500
$
1,612,866
$
2,653,921
$
2,541,573
See Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company’s loan/lease portfolio.
ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES ON LOANS/LEASES AND OFF-BALANCE SHEET EXPOSURES
The adequacy of the ACL was determined by management based on factors that included the overall composition of the loan/lease portfolio, types of loans/leases, historical loss experience, loan/lease delinquencies, potential substandard and doubtful credits, economic conditions, collateral positions, government guarantees and other factors that, in management’s judgment, deserved evaluation. To ensure that an adequate ACL was maintained, provisions were made based on a number of factors, including the increase in loans/leases and a detailed analysis of the loan/lease portfolio. The loan/lease portfolio is reviewed and analyzed quarterly with specific detailed reviews completed on all credits risk-rated less than “fair quality” as described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and carrying aggregate exposure in excess of $250 thousand. The adequacy of the allowance is monitored by the credit administration staff and reported to management and the board of directors.
Changes in the ACL for loans/leases for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 are presented as follows:
Year Ended
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning
$
87,706
$
78,721
$
84,376
Impact of adopting ASU 2016-13
-
-
(8,102)
Initial ACL recorded for PCD loans
-
5,902
-
Change in ACL for writedown of LHFS to fair value
(3,545)
-
-
Provision
11,550
9,636
5,702
Charge-offs
(9,392)
(7,525)
(4,538)
Recoveries
1,283
Balance, ending
$
87,200
$
87,706
$
78,721
The Company recorded an $11.0 million (pre-tax) provision for credit losses on loans in 2022, for the CECL Day 2 provision as a result of the GFED acquisition.
Net charge-offs by segment and their percentage of average loans and leases are as follows:
Year ended December 31,
Amount
% of Average Loans
Amount
% of Average Loans
(dollars in thousands)
Average amount of loans/leases outstanding, before allowance
$
6,337,551
$
5,604,074
Net charge-offs:
C&I - revolving
-
0.00
-
0.00
C&I - other
(8,137)
0.13
(5,600)
0.10
CRE owner occupied
(219)
0.00
0.00
CRE non-owner occupied
(0.00)
(96)
0.00
Construction and land development
(48)
0.00
(829)
0.01
Multi-family
-
0.00
(0.00)
1-4 family real estate
(0.00)
(21)
0.00
Consumer
(143)
0.00
(56)
0.00
Total net charge-offs
$
(8,511)
$
(6,553)
Changes in the ACL for OBS exposures for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
For the Year Ended
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning
$
5,552
$
6,886
$
-
Impact of adopting ASU 2016-13
-
-
9,117
Provisions (credited) to expense
3,977
(1,334)
(2,231)
Balance, ending
$
9,529
$
5,552
$
6,886
The ACL for OBS exposures totaled $9.1 million at the adoption of CECL on January 1, 2021. The Company recorded $4.0 million of provision for credit losses related to OBS exposures in 2023. Negative provisions in 2021 and 2022 were due to increased line of credit usage resulting in lower OBS exposure. The increase in provision in 2023 was
driven by an increase in unfunded commitments in the LIHTC lending business during the year. At December 31, 2023, the allowance for OBS exposures was $9.5 million.
The following is a table that reports the criticized and classified loan totals as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
As of December 31,
Internally Assigned Risk Rating *
(dollars in thousands)
Special Mention (Rating 6)
$
124,460
$
98,333
Substandard (Rating 7)/Classified loans
67,313
66,021
Doubtful (Rating 8)/Classified loans
-
-
Criticized Loans
$
191,773
$
164,354
Criticized Loans as a % of Total Loans/Leases
2.93
%
2.68
%
Classified Loans as a % of Total Loans/Leases
1.03
%
1.08
%
* Amounts above exclude the government guaranteed portion, if any. The Company assigns internal risk ratings of Pass (Rating 2) for the government
guaranteed portion.
** Criticized loans are defined as C&I and CRE loans with internally assigned risk ratings of 6, 7, or 8, regardless of performance.
*** Classified loans are defined as C&I and CRE loans with internally assigned risk ratings of 7 or 8, regardless of performance.
Criticized loans increased 17% and classified loans increased 2% in 2023 as compared to 2022 due to the downgrade of five large relationships that are still performing. The Company continues its strong focus on improving credit quality in an effort to limit NPLs.
The following table summarizes the trend in allowance as a percentage of gross loans/leases and as a percentage of NPLs as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
As of December 31,
ACL for loans/leases / Total loans/leases held for investment
1.33
%
1.43
%
ACL for loans/leases / NPLs
265.54
%
1,000.07
%
The following table presents the allowance by type and the percentage of loan/lease type to total loans/leases.
As of December 31,
Amount
%
Amount
%
(dollars in thousands)
C&I - revolving
$
4,224
%
$
4,457
%
C&I - other*
27,460
%
27,753
%
CRE - owner occupied
8,223
%
9,965
%
CRE - non-owner occupied
11,581
%
11,749
%
Construction and land development
16,856
%
14,262
%
Multi-family
12,463
%
13,186
%
1-4 family real estate
4,917
%
4,963
%
Consumer
1,476
%
1,371
%
$
87,200
%
$
87,706
%
* Included within the C&I - Other segment is an ACL on leases of $992 thousand and $970 thousand as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Leases represent 1% of to total loans/leases.
Although management believes that the ACL for loans/leases at December 31, 2023 is at a level adequate to absorb losses on existing loans/leases, there can be no assurance that such losses will not exceed the estimated amounts or that the Company will not be required to make additional provisions in the future. Unpredictable future events could
adversely affect cash flows for both commercial and individual borrowers, which could cause the Company to experience increases in problem assets, delinquencies and losses on loans/leases, and may require additional increases in the provision for credit losses. Asset quality is a priority for the Company and its subsidiaries. The ability to grow profitably is in part dependent upon the ability to maintain that quality. The Company continually focuses efforts at its subsidiary banks and its leasing company with the intention to improve the overall quality of the Company’s loan/lease portfolio.
See Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company’s ACL.
NONPERFORMING ASSETS
The table below presents the amounts of NPAs and related ratios.
As of December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Nonaccrual loans/leases (1)
$
32,753
$
8,765
Accruing loans/leases past due 90 days or more
Total NPLs
32,839
8,770
Other repossessed assets
-
-
OREO
1,347
Total NPAs
$
34,186
$
8,903
NPLs to total loans/leases
0.50
%
0.14
%
NPAs to total loans/leases plus repossessed property
0.52
%
0.15
%
NPAs to total assets
0.40
%
0.11
%
Nonaccrual loans/leases to total loans/leases
0.50
%
0.14
%
ACL to nonaccrual loans
266.24
%
1000.64
%
(1) Includes government guaranteed portions of loans, if applicable.
NPAs at December 31, 2023 were $34.2 million, up $25.3 million from December 31, 2022. The increase from prior year was driven by three client relationships from unrelated industries. The ratio of NPAs to total assets was 0.40% at December 31, 2023, up from 0.11% at December 31, 2022.
The majority of the Company’s NPAs consists of nonaccrual loans/leases. For nonaccrual loans/leases, management thoroughly reviewed these loans/leases and provided specific allowances as appropriate.
OREO is carried at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.
The policy of the Company is to place a loan/lease on nonaccrual status if: (a) payment in full of interest or principal is not expected; or (b) principal or interest has been in default for a period of 90 days or more unless the obligation is both in the process of collection and well secured. A loan/lease is well secured if it is secured by collateral with sufficient market value to repay principal and all accrued interest. A debt is in the process of collection if collection of the debt is proceeding in due course either through legal action, including judgment enforcement procedures, or in appropriate circumstances, through collection efforts not involving legal action which are reasonably expected to result in repayment of the debt or in its restoration to current status.
The Company’s lending/leasing practices remain unchanged and asset quality remains a top priority for management.
DEPOSITS
Deposits grew $529.8 million, or 8.9%, during 2023, primarily due to an increase in interest-bearing deposits. The table below presents the composition of the Company’s deposit portfolio.
As of December 31,
Amount
%
Amount
%
(dollars in thousands)
Noninterest bearing demand deposits
$
1,038,689
%
$
1,262,981
%
Interest bearing demand deposits
4,338,390
%
3,875,497
%
Time deposits
851,950
%
744,593
%
Brokered deposits
284,976
%
101,146
%
$
6,514,005
%
$
5,984,217
%
The Company actively participates in the ICS/CDARS program, which is a trusted resource that provides FDIC insurance coverage for clients of the Company that maintain larger deposit balances. Deposits in the ICS/CDARS program (which are included in interest bearing demand deposits and time deposits in the preceding table) totaled $2.1 billion, or 31.8% of all deposits, as of December 31, 2023.
The Company’s correspondent bank deposit portfolio and funds managed consists of the following:
● Noninterest-bearing deposits which represent the correspondent banks’ operating cash used for processing transactions with the FRB,
● Money market deposits which represent some excess liquidity, and
● EBA balances of the correspondent banks held at the FRB.
The Company had total uninsured deposits of $1.8 billion and $1.9 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 respectively. The table below represents the time deposits in FDIC uninsured accounts by maturity:
As of December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
U.S. Time Deposits in Amounts in Excess of FDIC insurance limit:
One to three months
$
213,425
$
183,837
Three to six months
160,812
113,065
Six to twelve months
130,490
118,311
Over twelve months
9,960
27,441
$
514,687
$
442,654
There were no other time deposits otherwise uninsured. The Company had no deposits by foreign depositors in domestic offices as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Management will continue to focus on growing its core deposit portfolio, including its correspondent banking business at QCBT, as well as shifting the mix from brokered and other higher cost deposits to lower cost core deposits. With the significant success achieved by QCBT in growing its correspondent banking business, QCBT has developed procedures to proactively monitor this industry concentration of deposits and loans. Other deposit-related industry concentrations and large accounts are monitored by the internal asset liability management committee. See discussion regarding policy limits on bank stock loans in the Lending/Leasing section under Item 1 - Business in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
The subsidiary banks purchase federal funds for short-term funding needs from the FRB or from their correspondent banks. The table below presents the composition of the Company’s short-term borrowings.
As of December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Federal funds purchased
$
1,500
$
129,630
The Company’s federal funds purchased fluctuates based on the short-term funding needs of the Company’s subsidiary banks. See Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company’s short-term borrowings.
FHLB ADVANCES AND OTHER BORROWINGS
As a result of their membership in the FHLB of Des Moines, the subsidiary banks have the ability to borrow funds for short-term or long-term purposes under a variety of programs. The subsidiary banks can utilize FHLB advances for loan matching as a hedge against the possibility of changing interest rates or when these advances provide a less costly or more readily available source of funds than customer deposits.
As of December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
FHLB Advances
$
435,000
$
415,000
Weighted Average Interest Rate at Year-End
5.39
%
4.58
%
It is management’s intention to reduce its reliance on wholesale funding, including FHLB advances and brokered deposits. Replacement of this funding with core deposits helps to reduce interest expense as wholesale funding tends to be higher cost. However, the Company may choose to utilize advances and/or brokered deposits to supplement funding needs, as this is a way for the Company to effectively and efficiently manage interest rate risk.
The Company renewed its revolving credit note in the second quarter of 2023. At renewal, the available line amount remained unchanged at $50.0 million for which there was no outstanding balance as of December 31, 2023. Interest on the revolving line of credit is calculated at the greater of: (a) the effective Prime Rate less 0.50% or (b) 3.00% per annum. The collateral on the revolving line of credit is 100% of the outstanding stock of the Company’s bank subsidiaries.
The Company has been approved for the Bank Term Funding Program. As of December 31, 2023, there were no amounts outstanding and investment securities with a carrying value of $10.1 million are pledged as collateral for the program. The Bank Term Funding Program ends March 11, 2024.
See Notes 10 and 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding FHLB advances and other borrowings.
SUBORDINATED NOTES
The Company had subordinated notes totaling $233.1 million and $232.7 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company completed private placements of $100.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-
to-floating subordinated notes in the third quarter of 2022. The Company acquired $19.6 million of subordinated notes during 2022 with the GFED acquisition.
See Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the subordinated notes.
JUNIOR SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES
The Company had junior subordinated debentures totaling $48.7 million and $48.6 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company acquired $10.3 million of junior subordinated debentures during 2022 with the GFED acquisition.
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
The table below presents the composition of the Company’s stockholders’ equity.
As of December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Common stock
$
16,749
$
16,796
Additional paid in capital
370,814
370,712
Retained earnings
554,992
450,114
AOCI
(55,959)
(64,898)
Total stockholders' equity
$
886,596
$
772,724
TCE / TA ratio (non-GAAP)
8.75
%
7.93
%
* TCE/TA ratio is defined as total common stockholders’ equity excluding goodwill and other intangibles divided by total assets. This ratio is a non-GAAP measure. Refer to the GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliations section of this report for more information.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, no preferred stock was outstanding.
AOCI increased $8.9 million during 2023 due to an increase in the value of the Company’s AFS securities portfolio and certain derivatives resulting from the change in interest rates during the year.
On May 19, 2022, the board of directors of the Company approved a share repurchase program under which the Company is authorized to repurchase, from time to time as the Company deems appropriate, up to an additional 1,500,000 shares of its outstanding common stock, or approximately 10% of the outstanding shares as of December 31, 2021. There were 175,000 and 970,000 shares of common stock purchased by the Company during the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. There were 760,915 shares of common stock remaining for repurchase as of December 31, 2023.
The following table presents the rollforward of stockholders’ equity for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
For the Year Ended December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Beginning balance
$
772,724
$
677,010
Net income
113,558
99,066
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
8,939
(66,450)
Issuance of 2,071,291 shares of common stock as a result of acquisition of GFED
-
117,214
Repurchase and cancellation of shares of common stock as a result of a share repurchase program
(8,686)
(52,954)
Common cash dividends declared
(4,020)
(4,022)
Other *
4,081
2,860
Ending balance
$
886,596
$
772,724
* Includes primarily stock-based compensation.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Liquidity measures the ability of the Company to meet maturing obligations and its existing commitments, to withstand fluctuations in deposit levels, to fund its operations, and to provide for customers’ credit needs. The Company monitors liquidity risk through contingency planning stress testing on a regular basis. The Company seeks to avoid over concentration of funding sources and to establish and maintain contingent funding facilities that can be drawn upon if normal funding sources become unavailable. One source of liquidity is cash and short-term assets, such as interest-bearing deposits in other banks, cash and due from banks and federal funds sold, which averaged $180.4 million and $153.9 million during 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company’s on balance sheet liquidity position can fluctuate based on short-term activity in deposits and loans.
The subsidiary banks have a variety of sources of short-term liquidity available to them, including federal funds purchased from correspondent banks, FHLB advances, wholesale structured repurchase agreements, brokered deposits, lines of credit, borrowing at the Federal Reserve Discount Window, sales of securities AFS, and loan/lease participations or sales. The Company also generates liquidity from the regular principal payments and prepayments made on its loan/lease portfolio, and on the regular monthly payments on its securities portfolio.
At December 31, 2023, the subsidiary banks had 25 lines of credit totaling $699.3 million, of which $248.5 million was secured and $450.8 million was unsecured. At December 31, 2023, $699.3 million was available.
At December 31, 2022, the subsidiary banks had 28 lines of credit totaling $501.8 million, of which $31.0 million was secured and $470.8 million was unsecured. At December 31, 2022, $372.8 million was available.
The Company has emphasized growing the number and amount of lines of credit in an effort to strengthen this contingent source of liquidity. Additionally, the Company maintains a $50.0 million secured revolving credit note with a variable interest rate and a maturity of June 30, 2024. At December 31, 2023, the full $50.0 million was available. See Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $536.1 million in correspondent banking deposits spread over 182 relationships. While the Company believes that these funds are relatively stable, there is the potential for large fluctuations that can impact liquidity. Seasonality and the liquidity needs of these correspondent banks can impact balances. Management closely monitors these fluctuations and runs stress scenarios to measure the impact on liquidity and interest rate risk with various levels of correspondent deposit run-off.
Investing activities used cash of $749.3 million during 2023 compared to $634.7 million during 2022. Proceeds from calls, maturities, pay downs, and sales of securities were $141.9 million for 2023 compared to $186.8 million for 2022. Purchases of securities used cash of $187.6 million for 2023 compared to $230.5 million for 2022. The net increase in loans/leases used cash of $676.7 million for 2023 compared to $654.9 million for 2022.
Financing activities provided cash of $410.3 million for 2023 compared to $538.2 million for 2022. Net increases in deposits totaled $529.8 million for 2023 as compared to net decreases in deposits of $15.1 million for 2022. Net short-term borrowings decreased $128.1 million for 2023 as compared to an increase of $125.8 million for 2022. Net increases in long-term FHLB advances totaled $135.0 million in 2023. Short-term FHLB advances decreased $115.0 million in 2023 as compared to an increase of $400.0 million in 2022. Proceeds from subordinated notes totaled $100.0 million in 2022. Repurchase and cancellation of shares totaled $8.7 million in 2023 as compared to $53.0 million in 2022.
Total cash provided by operating activities was $376.3 million for 2023 compared to $118.7 million for 2022.
Throughout its history, the Company has secured additional capital through various resources, including common and preferred stock and the issuance of trust preferred securities and subordinated notes.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the subsidiary banks remained “well-capitalized” in accordance with regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking authorities. See Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for detail of the capital amounts and ratios for the Company and its subsidiary banks.
COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES, CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS, AND OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
In the normal course of business, the subsidiary banks make various commitments and incur certain contingent liabilities that are not presented in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements. The commitments and contingent liabilities include various guarantees, commitments to extend credit, and standby letters of credit.
Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The subsidiary banks evaluate each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the banks upon extension of credit, is based upon management’s credit evaluation of the counterparty. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, marketable securities, inventory, property, plant and equipment, and income-producing commercial properties.
Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the subsidiary banks to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Those guarantees are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements and, generally, have terms of one year or less. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. The banks hold collateral, as described above, supporting those commitments if deemed necessary. In the event the customer does not perform in accordance with the terms of the agreement with the third party, the banks would be required to fund the commitments. The maximum potential amount of future payments the banks could be required to make is represented by the contractual amount. If the commitment is funded, the banks would be entitled to seek recovery from the customer. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, no amounts had been recorded as liabilities for the banks’ potential obligations under these guarantees.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, commitments to extend credit aggregated $2.0 billion and $1.7 billion, respectively. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, standby letters of credit aggregated $23.7 million and $25.8 million, respectively. Management does not expect that all of these commitments will be funded.
Additional information regarding commitments, contingencies, and off-balance sheet arrangements is described in Note 20 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Company has various financial obligations, including contractual obligations and commitments, which may require future cash payments. The significant fixed and determinable contractual obligations to third parties are deposits without a stated maturity, certificates of deposit, short-term borrowings, subordinated notes, and junior subordinated debentures and totaled $7.2 billion as of December 31, 2023.
The Company entered into a construction contract in 2023 for the construction of a new CRBT facility in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The Company will pay the contractor a contract price of approximately $17.0 million, subject to additions and deductions as provided in the contract documents. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has paid $2.8 million of the contract price, resulting in a remaining future commitment of $14.2 million. Construction is anticipated to be completed in 2024.
The Company’s operating contract obligations represent short and long-term contractual payments for data processing equipment and services, software, and other equipment and professional services and totaled $28.1 million as of December 31, 2023.
LOAN SECURITIZATIONS
The Company completed two LIHTC loan securitizations in the fourth quarter of 2023, through arrangements with Freddie Mac. The first was an M series securitization for the sale of nontaxable LIHTC loans totaling $128.6 million and resulting in a $2.4 million net loss on sale which included the impact of the fair value of retained beneficial interests and transaction costs. The second was a Q series securitization for the sale of taxable LIHTC loans totaling $133.3 million and resulting in a $3.1 million net gain on sale which included the impact of the fair value of retained beneficial interests, guarantee liabilities and transaction costs. The Company retained beneficial interests from these securitizations in the amount of $22.4 million which are designated as trading securities on the consolidated balance sheet, and carried at fair value. In conjunction with the securitizations, variable interest entities were formed. See Note 5 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for details on these securitization transactions as well as the related variable interest entities.
IMPACT OF INFLATION AND CHANGING PRICES
The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and the accompanying notes have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollar amounts without considering the changes in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. The impact of inflation is reflected in the increased cost of the Company’s operations. Unlike industrial companies, nearly all of the assets and liabilities of the Company are monetary in nature. As a result, interest rates have a greater impact on the Company’s performance than do the effects of general levels of inflation. Interest rates do not necessarily move in the same direction or to the same extent as the price of goods and services.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This document (including information incorporated by reference) contains, and future oral and written statements of the Company and its management may contain, forward-looking statements, within the meaning of such term in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of the Company. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon
beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the Company’s management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “bode,” “predict,” “suggest,” “project,” “appear,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “annualize,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “likely,” “might,” “potential,” “continue,” “annualized,” “target,” “outlook,” as well as the negative forms of those words, or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this document, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events.
The Company’s ability to predict results or the actual effect of future plans or strategies is inherently uncertain. The factors that could have a material adverse effect on the operations and future prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries are detailed in the “Risk Factors” section included under Item 1A. of Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In addition to the risk factors described in that section, there are other factors that could have a material adverse effect on the operations and future prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries. These additional factors include, but are not limited to, the following:
● The strength of the local, state, national and international economies (including effects of inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints).
● The economic impact of any future terrorist threats and attacks, widespread disease or pandemics (including the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States), acts of war or threats thereof (including the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict), or other adverse events that could cause economic deterioration or instability in credit markets, and the response of the local, state and national governments to any such adverse external events.
● Changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by state and federal regulatory agencies, the FASB, the SEC or the PCAOB.
● Changes in local, state and federal laws, regulations and governmental policies concerning the Company’s general business and any other changes in response to the recent failures of other banks.
● Changes in the interest rates and prepayment rates of the Company’s assets (including the impact of LIBOR phase-out and the recent potential additional rate increases by the Federal Reserve).
● Increased competition in the financial services sector, including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and “fintech” companies, and the inability to attract new customers.
● Changes in technology and the ability to develop and maintain secure and reliable electronic systems.
● Unexpected results of acquisitions which may include failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisitions and the possibility that transaction costs may be greater than anticipated.
● The loss of key executives and employees.
● Changes in consumer spending.
● Unexpected outcomes of existing or new litigation involving the Company.
● The economic impact of exceptional weather occurrences such as tornadoes, floods and blizzards.
● Fluctuations in the value of securities held in our securities portfolio.
● Concentrations within our securities portfolio, large loans to certain borrowers, and large deposits from certain clients.
● The concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current FDIC insurance limits and who may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure.
● The level of non-performing assets on our balance sheets.
● Interruptions involving our information technology and communications systems or third-party servicers.
● Breaches or failures of our information security controls or cybersecurity-related incidents.
● The ability of the Company to manage the risks associated with the foregoing as well as anticipated.
These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.

---

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
The Company, like other financial institutions, is subject to direct and indirect market risk. Direct market risk exists from changes in interest rates. The Company’s net income is dependent on its net interest income. Net interest income is susceptible to interest rate risk to the degree that interest-bearing liabilities mature or reprice on a different basis than interest-earning assets. When interest-bearing liabilities mature or reprice more quickly than interest-earning assets in a given period, a significant increase in market rates of interest could adversely affect net interest income. Similarly, when interest-earning assets mature or reprice more quickly than interest-bearing liabilities, falling interest rates could result in a decrease in net interest income.
In an attempt to manage the Company’s exposure to changes in interest rates, management monitors the Company’s interest rate risk. Each subsidiary bank has an asset/liability management committee of its board of directors that meets quarterly to review the bank’s interest rate risk position and profitability, and to make or recommend adjustments, as necessary, for consideration by the full board of each bank.
Internal asset/liability management teams consisting of members of the subsidiary banks’ management meet bi-weekly to manage the mix of assets and liabilities to maximize earnings and liquidity and minimize interest rate and other risks. Management also reviews the subsidiary banks’ securities portfolios, formulates investment strategies, and oversees the timing and implementation of transactions to assure attainment of the board’s objectives in the most effective manner. Notwithstanding the Company’s interest rate risk management activities, the potential for changing interest rates is an uncertainty that can have an adverse effect on net income.
In adjusting the Company’s asset/liability position, the Board of Directors and management attempt to manage the Company’s interest rate risk while maintaining or enhancing net interest margins. At times, depending on the level of general interest rates, the relationship between long-term and short-term interest rates, market conditions and competitive factors, the Board of Directors and management may decide to increase the Company’s interest rate risk position somewhat in order to increase its net interest margin. The Company’s results of operations and net portfolio values remain vulnerable to increases in interest rates and to fluctuations in the difference between long-term and short-term interest rates.
One method used to quantify interest rate risk is a short-term earnings at risk summary, which is a detailed and dynamic simulation model used to quantify the estimated exposure of net interest income to sustained interest rate changes. This simulation model captures the impact of changing interest rates on the interest income received and interest
expense paid on all interest sensitive assets and liabilities reflected on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. This sensitivity analysis demonstrates net interest income exposure annually over a five-year horizon, assuming no balance sheet growth, no balance sheet mix change, and various interest rate scenarios including no change in rates; 100, 200, 300 and 400 basis point upward shifts; and 100 and 200 basis point downward shifts in interest rates, where interest-bearing assets and liabilities reprice at their earliest possible repricing date.
The model assumes parallel and pro rata shifts in interest rates over a twelve-month period for the 100, 200 and 300 basis point upward and downward shifts. For the 400 basis point upward shift, the model assumes a parallel and pro rata shift in interest rates over a twenty-four month period.
Further, in recent years, the Company added additional interest rate scenarios where interest rates experience a parallel and instantaneous shift (“shock”) upward of 100, 200, 300, and 400 basis points. The Company will run additional interest rate scenarios on an as-needed basis.
The asset/liability management committees of the subsidiary bank boards of directors have established policy limits of a 10% decline in net interest income for the 200 basis point upward and downward parallel shift. For the 300 basis point upward and downward shock, the established policy limit is a 30% decline in net interest income. The increased policy limit is appropriate as the shock scenario is extreme and unlikely and warrants a higher limit than the more realistic and traditional parallel/pro-rata shift scenarios.
Application of the simulation model analysis for select interest rate scenarios at December 31, 2023 and 2022 demonstrated the following:
NET INTEREST INCOME EXPOSURE in YEAR 1
As of December 31,
As of December 31,
INTEREST RATE SCENARIO
POLICY LIMIT
300 basis point downward parallel shock
(30.0)
%
2.1
%
(6.1)
%
200 basis point downward parallel shift
(10.0)
%
1.4
%
(0.2)
%
200 basis point upward parallel shift
(10.0)
%
(2.3)
%
(1.3)
%
300 basis point upward parallel shock
(30.0)
%
(8.0)
%
(2.3)
%
With the shift in funding from non-interest bearing and lower beta deposits to higher beta deposits, the Company’s balance sheet is now moderately liability sensitive. Notably, management is conservative with the repricing assumptions on loans and deposits. For example, management does not model any delay in loan and deposit betas despite historical experience and practice of delays in deposit betas. Additionally, management does not model mix shift or growth in its standard scenarios which can be impactful. As an alternative, management runs separate scenarios to capture the impact on delayed beta performance and various shifts in mix of loans and deposits. Finally, management models a variety of scenarios including some that stress key assumptions to help capture and isolate the impact of the management’s more conservative approach to the assumptions in the base model.
The simulation is within the board-established policy limits for all three scenarios. Additionally, for all of the various interest rate scenarios modeled and measured by management (as described above), the results at December 31, 2023 were well within established risk tolerances as established by policy or by best practice (if the interest rate scenario didn’t have a specific policy limit).
Interest rate risk is considered to be one of the most significant market risks affecting the Company. For that reason, the Company engages the assistance of a national consulting firm and its risk management system to monitor and control the Company’s interest rate risk exposure. Other types of market risk, such as foreign currency exchange rate risk and commodity price risk, do not arise in the normal course of the Company’s business activities.

---

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Item 8. Financial Statements
QCR HOLDINGS, INC.
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
Page Number(s)
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID: 49)
Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements:
● Note 1: Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies
● Note 2: Mergers/Acquisitions/Sales
● Note 3: Investment Securities
● Note 4: Loans/Leases Receivable
● Note 5: Securitizations and Variable Interest Entities
● Note 6: Premises and Equipment
● Note 7: Goodwill and Intangibles
● Note 8: Derivatives and Hedging Activities
● Note 9: Deposits
● Note 10: Short-Term Borrowings
● Note 11: FHLB Advances
● Note 12: Other Borrowings and Unused Lines of Credit
● Note 13: Subordinated Notes
● Note 14: Junior Subordinated Debentures
● Note 15: Federal and State Income Taxes
● Note 16: Employee Benefit Plans
● Note 17: Stock-Based Compensation
● Note 18: Regulatory Capital Requirements and Restrictions on Dividends
● Note 19: Earnings Per Share
● Note 20: Commitments and Contingencies
●
Note 21: Parent Company Only Financial Statements
●
Note 22: Fair Value
●
Note 23: Business Segment Information
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of QCR Holdings, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of QCR Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements (collectively, the financial statements). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013, and our report dated February 29, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with 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 financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.
Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans and Leases
As described in Notes 1 and 4 to the financial statements, the allowance for credit losses on loans and
leases (allowance) totaled $87.2 million at December 31, 2023. The allowance is measured on a
collective (pool) basis when similar risk characteristics exist (general reserve). Loans that do not share
similar risk characteristics are evaluated on an individual basis at the balance sheet date (specific
reserve). As of December 31, 2023, the general reserve on loans and leases collectively evaluated for impairment totaled $78.7 million, and the specific reserve on loans and leases individually evaluated
totaled $8.5 million.
The measurement of the general reserve is based on relevant past events, including historical
experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect collectability. The Company’s reserve on collectively evaluated loans and leases includes a quantitative allowance based
upon estimates of losses over the life of the loans and leases that is calculated using an existing
probability of default and loss given default framework, as well as a qualitative component for factors not reflected in the historical loss experience. The qualitative component is determined based on an
assessment of internal and external influences on credit quality at the present time (qualitative factors), as well as a projection of the impact in the future (future factors). Qualitative factors of significant influence include the general economic environment in the Company’s markets, both locally and nationally, as well
as the impact of economic conditions on certain industries and credit quality indicators. The Company’s
future factors represent an estimate of forecasted economic conditions. The calculation also
contemplates that the Company may not have sufficient information to make reasonable and supportable forecasts for the entire life of the loans and leases, which would result in a reversion to historical credit
loss information. The evaluation of these qualitative factors and future factors requires that management make significant judgments, which may significantly impact the estimated allowance.
We identified the qualitative and future factors applied to the general reserve of the allowance as a critical audit matter, as auditing management’s determination of the qualitative and future factors required
significant auditor judgement as amounts determined by management rely on analysis that is highly subjective and includes significant estimation uncertainty.
Our audit procedures related to the Company’s qualitative factors and future factors in the general
reserve included the following, among others:
● We obtained an understanding of the relevant controls related to the qualitative and future factors of the general reserve and tested such controls for design and operating effectiveness, including controls relating to management’s review and approval of the qualitative and future factors and the underlying data used in determining those factors.
● We tested management’s process and evaluated the reasonableness of their judgments and assumptions to develop the qualitative and future factors, which included:
- Testing the accuracy and relevancy of the data inputs used by management as a basis for the adjustments for qualitative and future factors by comparing to internal and external source data.
- Evaluating the magnitude and directional consistency of the adjustments.
- Evaluating whether management’s conclusions were consistent with Company provided internal data and external, independently sourced data and agreeing the impact to the allowance calculation.
/s/ RSM US LLP
We have served as the Company's auditor since 1993.
Davenport, Iowa
February 29, 2024
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2023 and 2022
December 31,
December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
Assets
Cash and due from banks
$
97,123
$
59,723
Federal funds sold
35,450
56,910
Interest-bearing deposits at financial institutions
104,919
67,360
Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost, net of allowance for credit losses
683,504
587,142
Securities available for sale, at fair value
299,655
340,960
Securities trading, at fair value
22,369
-
Total securities
1,005,528
928,102
Loans receivable held for sale
2,594
1,480
Loans/leases receivable held for investment
6,540,822
6,137,391
Gross loans/leases receivable
6,543,416
6,138,871
Less allowance for credit losses
(87,200)
(87,706)
Net loans/leases receivable
6,456,216
6,051,165
Bank-owned life insurance
108,222
106,580
Premises and equipment, net
123,277
117,948
Restricted investment securities
41,648
42,501
Other real estate owned, net
1,347
Goodwill
139,027
137,607
Intangibles
13,821
16,759
Derivatives
187,341
177,631
Other assets
224,975
186,418
Total assets
$
8,538,894
$
7,948,837
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Liabilities:
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing
$
1,038,689
$
1,262,981
Interest-bearing
5,475,316
4,721,236
Total deposits
6,514,005
5,984,217
Short-term borrowings
1,500
129,630
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
435,000
415,000
Subordinated notes
233,064
232,662
Junior subordinated debentures
48,731
48,602
Derivatives
215,735
200,701
Other liabilities
204,263
165,301
Total liabilities
7,652,298
7,176,113
Stockholders' Equity:
Preferred stock, $1 par value; shares authorized 250,000 December 2023 and December 2022 - no shares issued or outstanding
-
-
Common stock, $1 par value; shares authorized 20,000,000 December 2023 - 16,749,254 shares issued and outstanding December 2022 - 16,795,942 shares issued and outstanding
16,749
16,796
Additional paid-in capital
370,814
370,712
Retained earnings
554,992
450,114
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Securities available for sale
(35,980)
(44,677)
Derivatives
(19,979)
(20,221)
Total stockholders' equity
886,596
772,724
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
8,538,894
$
7,948,837
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Interest and dividend income:
Loans/leases, including fees:
Taxable
$
284,778
$
215,900
$
152,129
Nontaxable
83,889
41,937
21,811
Securities:
Taxable
14,927
12,078
8,923
Nontaxable
22,335
19,089
16,167
Interest-bearing deposits at financial institutions
4,137
1,089
Restricted investment securities
2,346
2,068
Federal funds sold
Total interest and dividend income
413,410
292,571
200,155
Interest expense:
Deposits
159,419
42,362
13,300
Short-term borrowings
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
16,740
6,954
Other borrowings
-
-
Subordinated notes
13,230
9,200
6,272
Junior subordinated debentures
2,836
2,583
2,275
Total interest expense
192,404
61,451
21,922
Net interest income
221,006
231,120
178,233
Provision for credit losses
16,539
8,284
3,486
Net interest income after provision for credit losses
204,467
222,836
174,747
Noninterest income:
Trust fees
11,697
10,641
11,206
Investment advisory and management fees
3,864
3,858
4,080
Deposit service fees
8,177
8,134
6,132
Gains on sales of residential real estate loans, net
1,611
2,411
4,397
Gains on sales of government guaranteed portions of loans, net
Capital markets revenue
92,065
41,309
60,992
Securities losses, net
(451)
-
(88)
Earnings on bank-owned life insurance
4,184
2,056
1,838
Debit card fees
6,200
5,459
4,216
Correspondent banking fees
1,662
1,114
Loan related fee income
3,066
2,428
2,268
Fair value gain (loss) on derivatives
(1,262)
1,975
Other
1,817
1,372
3,870
Total noninterest income
132,684
80,729
100,422
Noninterest expense:
Salaries and employee benefits
136,619
115,368
100,907
Occupancy and equipment expense
25,031
21,975
15,918
Professional and data processing fees
16,271
16,282
14,579
Acquisition costs
-
3,715
Post-acquisition compensation, transition and integration costs
5,526
-
Disposition costs
-
-
FDIC insurance, other insurance and regulatory fees
7,137
5,806
4,475
Loan/lease expense
2,868
1,829
1,671
Net income from and gains/losses on operations of other real estate
(26)
(40)
(1,420)
Advertising and marketing
6,042
4,958
4,254
Communication and data connectivity
2,063
2,213
1,798
Supplies
1,254
1,109
1,053
Bank service charges
2,592
2,282
2,173
Correspondent banking expense
Intangibles amortization
2,938
2,854
2,032
Payment card processing
2,656
1,964
1,412
Trust expense
1,396
Other
2,520
2,560
2,656
Total noninterest expense
210,531
190,016
153,702
Net income before income taxes
126,620
113,549
121,467
Federal and state income tax expense
13,062
14,483
22,562
Net income
$
113,558
$
99,066
$
98,905
Basic earnings per common share
$
6.79
$
5.94
$
6.30
Diluted earnings per common share
$
6.73
$
5.87
$
6.20
Weighted average common shares outstanding
16,732,406
16,681,844
15,708,744
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding
16,866,391
16,890,007
15,944,708
Cash dividends declared per common share
$
0.24
$
0.24
$
0.24
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
QCR HOLDINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
(dollars in thousands)
Net income
$
113,558
$
99,066
$
98,905
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities available for sale:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period before tax
10,573
(67,387)
(4,158)
Less: reclassification adjusted for impairment losses included in net income before tax
(989)
-
-
Less: reclassification adjustment for sales losses included in net income before tax
(451)
-
(88)
12,013
(67,387)
(4,070)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period before tax
(754)
(22,130)
3,427
Less: reclassification adjustment for caplet amortization before tax
(872)
(1,001)
(697)
(21,129)
4,124
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax
12,131
(88,516)
Tax expense (benefit)
3,192
(22,066)
(122)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
8,939
(66,450)
Comprehensive income
$
122,497
$
32,616
$
99,081
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
Accumulated
Additional
Other
Common
Paid-In
Retained
Comprehensive
Stock
Capital
Earnings
Income (Loss)
Total
(dollars in thousands)
Balance December 31, 2020
$
15,806
$
275,807
$
300,804
$
1,376
$
593,793
Impact of adoption of ASU 2016-01
-
-
(937)
-
(937)
Net income
-
-
98,905
-
98,905
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
-
-
-
Common cash dividends declared, $0.24 per share
-
-
(3,781)
-
(3,781)
Repurchase and cancellation of 293,153 shares of common stock
as a result of a share repurchase program
(293)
(4,961)
(8,914)
-
(14,168)
Stock-based compensation expense
-
2,352
-
-
2,352
Issuance of common stock under employee benefit plans
-
-
Balance, December 31, 2021
$
15,613
$
273,768
$
386,077
$
1,552
$
677,010
Net income
-
-
99,066
-
99,066
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
-
-
-
(66,450)
(66,450)
Issuance of 2,071,291 shares of common stock
as a result of acquisition of Guaranty Federal Bancshares
2,071
115,143
-
-
117,214
Common cash dividends declared, $0.24 per share
-
-
(4,022)
-
(4,022)
Repurchase and cancellation of 970,000 shares of common stock
as a result of a share repurchase program
(970)
(20,977)
(31,007)
-
(52,954)
Stock-based compensation expense
-
2,438
-
-
2,438
Issuance of common stock under employee benefit plans
-
-
Balance, December 31, 2022
$
16,796
$
370,712
$
450,114
$
(64,898)
$
772,724
Net income
-
-
113,558
-
113,558
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
-
-
-
8,939
8,939
Common cash dividends declared, $0.24 per share
-
-
(4,020)
-
(4,020)
Repurchase and cancellation of 175,000 shares of common stock
as a result of a share repurchase program
(175)
(3,851)
(4,660)
-
(8,686)
Stock-based compensation expense
-
2,678
-
-
2,678
Issuance of common stock under employee benefit plans
1,275
-
-
1,403
Balance, December 31, 2023
$
16,749
$
370,814
$
554,992
$
(55,959)
$
886,596
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
(dollars in thousands)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income
$
113,558
$
99,066
$
98,905
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation
8,725
7,662
5,359
Provision for credit losses
16,539
8,284
3,486
Deferred income taxes
(946)
(4,682)
15,272
Stock-based compensation expense
2,678
2,438
2,352
Deferred compensation expense accrued
5,677
4,062
4,580
Gains on other real estate owned, net
(85)
(129)
(1,754)
Amortization of premiums on securities, net
1,337
1,933
Caplet amortization
1,001
Fair value (gain) loss on derivatives
1,262
(1,975)
(170)
Ineffectiveness on fair value hedges
-
-
Securities losses, net
-
Loans originated for sale
(69,897)
(99,394)
(204,449)
Proceeds on sales of loans
70,448
107,487
209,003
Gains on sales of residential real estate loans
(1,611)
(2,411)
(4,397)
Gains on sales of government guaranteed portions of loans
(54)
(119)
(227)
Proceeds from loan securitizations
240,166
-
-
Net gain on securitizations
(664)
-
-
Losses on sales and disposals of premises and equipment
1,059
Amortization of intangibles
2,938
2,854
2,032
Accretion of acquisition fair value adjustments, net
(2,173)
(8,581)
(1,340)
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance
(3,053)
(2,056)
(1,838)
Gain on bank-owned life insurance death benefits
(1,131)
-
-
Increase in other assets
(40,114)
(42,572)
(47,006)
Decrease in other liabilities
31,356
46,049
4,633
Net cash provided by operating activities
376,323
118,699
88,218
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Net (increase) decrease in federal funds sold
21,460
(44,540)
(3,290)
Net (increase) decrease in interest-bearing deposits at financial institutions
(37,559)
25,066
11,304
Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned
4,742
Activity in securities portfolio:
Purchases
(187,635)
(230,501)
(173,204)
Calls, maturities and redemptions
97,362
43,638
106,442
Paydowns
13,986
31,805
65,410
Sales
30,568
111,375
23,874
Activity in restricted investment securities:
Purchases
(2,896)
(23,086)
(1,280)
Redemptions
3,749
2,158
Net increase in loans/leases originated and held for investment
(676,700)
(654,861)
(433,544)
Purchase of premises and equipment
(14,945)
(33,261)
(13,981)
Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment
2,060
1,726
Purchase of bank-owned life insurance
-
(10,000)
-
Proceeds from bank-owned life insurance death benefits
2,542
-
-
Net cash acquired from acquisition
-
144,973
-
Net cash used in investing activities
(749,269)
(634,692)
(411,771)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net increase (decrease) in deposit accounts
529,788
(15,128)
323,635
Net increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings
(128,130)
125,830
(1,630)
Activity in Federal Home Loan Bank advances:
Term advances
135,000
-
-
Net change in short-term and overnight advances
(115,000)
400,000
-
Prepayments
-
(16,000)
-
Activity in other borrowings:
Proceeds from other borrowings
-
10,000
-
Paydown of revolving line of credit
-
(10,000)
-
Prepayments of subordinated notes
-
-
(5,000)
Proceeds from subordinated notes
-
100,000
-
Payment of cash dividends on common stock
(4,029)
(3,944)
(3,793)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net
1,403
Repurchase and cancellation of shares
(8,686)
(52,954)
(14,168)
Net cash provided by financing activities
410,346
538,226
299,714
Net increase in cash and due from banks
37,400
22,233
(23,839)
Cash and due from banks, beginning
59,723
37,490
61,329
Cash and due from banks, ending
$
97,123
$
59,723
$
37,490
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries - Continued
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
(dollars in thousands)
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information, cash payments (receipts) for:
Interest
$
187,947
$
58,652
$
23,373
Income/franchise taxes
2,855
1,057
48,988
Supplemental schedule of noncash investing activities:
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), unrealized gains (losses) on securities available for sale and derivative instruments, net
8,939
(66,450)
Change in retained earnings from adoption of ASU 2016-13
-
-
(937)
Transfers of loans to other real estate owned
1,445
2,962
Transfer of loans to held for sale (for securitizations)
261,921
-
-
Beneficial interests (trading securities) acquired in securitizations
22,419
-
-
Due to broker for purchases of securities
-
-
1,000
Increase (decrease) in the fair value of back-to-back interest rate swap assets and liabilities
15,240
(54,441)
(1,376)
Dividends payable
1,004
1,013
Measurement period adjustment to goodwill
1,420
-
-
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information for acquisitions:
Fair value of assets acquired:
Cash and due from banks
$
-
$
171,844
$
-
Interest-bearing deposits at financial institutions
-
17,134
-
Securities
-
143,017
-
Loans receivable, net
-
801,697
-
Bank-owned life insurance
-
32,100
-
Premises and equipment, net
-
16,257
-
Restricted investment securities
-
2,220
-
Other real estate owned
-
-
Intangibles
-
10,264
-
Other assets
-
23,685
-
Total assets acquired
$
-
$
1,218,273
$
-
Fair value of liabilities assumed:
Deposits
$
-
$
1,076,573
$
-
FHLB advances
-
16,000
-
Subordinated debentures
-
19,621
Junior subordinated debentures
-
10,310
-
Other liabilities
-
15,225
-
Total liabilities assumed
-
1,137,729
-
Net assets acquired
$
-
$
80,544
$
-
Consideration paid:
Cash paid *
$
-
$
26,871
$
-
Common stock
-
117,214
-
Total consideration paid
-
144,085
-
Goodwill
$
-
$
63,541
$
-
*Net cash acquired at closing totaled $145.0 million for acquisition of Guaranty Bank in 2022.
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of presentation:
The acronyms and abbreviations identified below are used in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, as well as in the other sections of this Annual Report on Form 10-K (including appendices). It may be helpful to refer back to this page as you read this report.
ACL: Allowance for credit losses
AFS: Available for sale
LCR: Liquidity Coverage Ratio
Allowance: Allowance for credit losses
LHFI: Loans held for investment
AOCI: Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
LIBOR: London Inter-Bank Offered Rate
ASC: Accounting Standards Codification
LIHTC: Low-income housing tax credit
ASC 805: Business Combination Standard
m2: m2 Equipment Finance, LLC
ASU: Accounting Standards Update
MD&A: Management’s Discussion & Analysis
BHCA: Bank Holding Company Act of 1956
Missouri Division of Finance: Missouri Department of
BOLI: Bank-owned life insurance
Commerce and Insurance
Caps: Interest rate cap derivatives
NIM: Net interest margin
CECL: Current Expected Credit Losses
NOL: Net operating loss
CFPB: Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection
NPA: Nonperforming asset
CNB: Community National Bank
NPL: Nonperforming loan
Community National: Community National Bancorporation
NSFR: Net Stable Funding Ratio
COVID-19: Coronavirus Disease 2019
OBS: Off-balance sheet
CRA: Community Reinvestment Act
OREO: Other real estate owned
CRBT: Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust Company
OTTI: Other-than-temporary impairment
CRE: Commercial real estate
PCAOB: Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
CRE Guidance: Interagency Concentrations in Commercial
PCD: Purchased credit deteriorated loan
Real Estate Lending, Sound Risk Management Practices
PCI: Purchased credit impaired
Guidance
PPP: Paycheck Protection Program
CSB: Community State Bank
Provision: Provision for credit losses
C&I: Commercial and industrial
PUD LOC: Public Unit Deposit Letter of Credit
Dodd-Frank Act: Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and
QCBT: Quad City Bank & Trust Company
Consumer Protection Act
ROAA: Return on Average Assets
DGCL: Delaware General Corporation Law
ROACE: Return on Average Common Equity
DIF: Deposit Insurance Fund
ROAE: Return on Average Equity
EBA: Excess Balance Account
ROU: Right of use
EPS: Earnings per share
SBA: U.S. Small Business Administration
ESG: Environmental, Social and Governance
SEC: Securities and Exchange Commission
Exchange Act: Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
SERPs: Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans
FASB: Financial Accounting Standards Board
SFCB: Springfield First Community Bank
FDIC: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
SFG: Specialty Finance Group
Federal Reserve: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve
SOFR: Secured Overnight Financing Rate
System
Springfield Bancshares: Springfield Bancshares, Inc.
FHLB: Federal Home Loan Bank
TA: Tangible assets
FRB: Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
TCE: Tangible common equity
FTEs: Full-time equivalents
TDRs: Troubled debt restructurings
GAAP: Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
TEY: Tangible equivalent yield
GB: Guaranty Bank
The Company: QCR Holdings, Inc.
GFED: Guaranty Federal Bancshares
TRBC: Total risk-based capital
Goldman Sachs: Goldman Sachs and Company
Treasury: U.S. Department of the Treasury
Guaranty: Guaranty Bankshares, Ltd.
USA Patriot Act: Uniting and Strengthening America by
Guaranty Bank: Guaranty Bank and Trust Company
Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept
HTM: Held to maturity
and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001
IO Strips: Interest-only strips
USDA: U.S. Department of Agriculture
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Nature of business:
QCR Holdings, Inc. is a bank holding company that has elected to operate as a financial holding company under the BHCA. The Company provides bank and bank-related services through its banking subsidiaries, QCBT, CRBT, CSB and GB. The Company also engages in direct financing lease and equipment financing contracts through its wholly-owned equity investment by QCBT in m2, headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The Company also engages in wealth management services through its banking subsidiaries.
On April 1, 2022, the Company completed its acquisition of GFED and on April 2, 2022 merged GB with and into SFCB, the Company’s Springfield-based charter. The combined bank changed its name to “Guaranty Bank”. See Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
QCBT is a commercial bank that serves the Iowa and Illinois Quad Cities and adjacent communities. CRBT is a commercial bank that serves Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and adjacent communities including Cedar Falls and Waterloo, Iowa. CSB is a commercial bank that serves Des Moines, Iowa, and adjacent communities. GB is a commercial bank that serves Springfield and Joplin, Missouri and adjacent communities.
QCBT, CRBT, and CSB are chartered and regulated under the laws of the state of Iowa. GB is chartered and regulated under the laws of the state of Missouri. All four subsidiary banks are insured and subject to regulation by the FDIC. All four subsidiary banks are members of and regulated by the Federal Reserve System.
The remaining direct subsidiaries of the Company consist of a consolidated subsidiary formed for the risk management of insurance and seven non-consolidated subsidiaries formed for the issuance of trust preferred securities. See Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a listing of these subsidiaries and additional information.
Significant accounting policies:
Accounting estimates: The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with GAAP, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance, determination of the fair value of loans acquired in business combinations, impairment of goodwill, fair value of financial instruments, and the fair value of securities.
Principles of consolidation: The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries, except those seven subsidiaries formed for the issuance of trust preferred securities which do not meet the criteria for consolidation. All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Presentation of cash flows: For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and due from banks include cash on hand and noninterest bearing amounts due from banks. Cash flows from federal funds sold, interest bearing deposits at financial institutions, loans/leases, deposits, short-term borrowings and overnight and short-term FHLB advances are treated as net increases or decreases.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Cash and due from banks: In general, the subsidiary banks are required by federal banking regulations to maintain certain cash and due from bank reserves. There was no specific reserve requirement in place as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Investment securities: Investment securities HTM are those debt securities that the Company has the ability and intent to hold until maturity regardless of changes in market conditions, liquidity needs, or changes in general economic conditions. Such securities are carried at cost, net of ACL, adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts. If the ability or intent to hold to maturity is not present for certain specified securities, such securities are considered AFS as the Company intends to hold them for an indefinite period of time but not necessarily to maturity. Any decision to sell a security classified as AFS would be based on various factors, including movements in interest rates, changes in the maturity mix of the Company’s assets and liabilities, liquidity needs, regulatory capital considerations, and other factors. Securities AFS are carried at fair value. Unrealized gains or losses, net of taxes, are reported as increases or decreases in AOCI. Realized gains or losses, determined on the basis of the cost of specific securities sold, are included in earnings.
All HTM and AFS debt securities are evaluated to determine whether declines in fair value below their amortized cost require an allowance. See further discussion in the Allowance section following.
Trading securities include retained beneficial interests from securitizations and are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses recorded in earnings. As trading securities are carried at their current fair value, there is no allowance necessary.
Loans receivable, held for sale: Residential real estate loans which are originated and intended for resale in the secondary market in the foreseeable future are classified as held for sale. These loans are carried at the lower of cost or estimated market value in the aggregate. As assets specifically acquired for resale, the origination of, disposition of, and gain/loss on these loans are classified as operating activities in the statement of cash flows.
Loans receivable, held for investment: Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future, or until pay-off or maturity occurs, are classified as held for investment. These loans are reported at amortized cost, net of the ACL. Amortized cost is the amount of unpaid principal adjusted for charge-offs, any discounts or premiums, and any deferred fees and/or costs on originated loans. Accrued interest receivable totaled $31.8 million at December 31, 2023 and was reported in other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. Interest is credited to earnings as earned based on the principal amount outstanding. Deferred direct loan origination fees and/or costs are amortized as an adjustment of the related loan’s yield. As assets held for and used in the production of services, the origination and collection of these loans are classified as investing activities in the statement of cash flows.
The ACL is measured on a collective (pool) basis when similar risk characteristics exist. The Company discloses the ACL (also known as the allowance) by portfolio segment, and credit quality information, nonaccrual status, and past due status by class of financing receivable. A portfolio segment is the level at which the Company develops and documents a systematic methodology to determine its ACL. A class of financing receivable is a further disaggregation of a portfolio segment based on risk characteristics and the Company’s method for monitoring and assessing credit risk. See the following information and Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Company’s portfolio segments are as follows:
● C&I - revolving
● C&I - other
● CRE - owner occupied
● CRE - non-owner occupied
● Construction and land development
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
● Multi-family
● 1-4 family real estate
● Consumer
The Company’s classes of loans receivable are as follows:
● C&I - revolving
● C&I - other
● CRE - owner occupied
● CRE - non-owner occupied
● Construction and land development
● Multi-family
● Direct financing leases
● 1-4 family real estate
● Consumer
Direct financing leases are considered a class of financing receivable within the overall loan/lease portfolio and are included in the C&I - other loan segments for ACL. The accounting policies for direct financing leases are disclosed below.
Generally, for all classes of loans receivable, loans are considered past due when contractual payments are delinquent for 30 days or greater.
For all classes of loans receivable, loans will generally be placed on nonaccrual status when the loan has become 90 days past due (unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection); or if any of the following conditions exist:
● It becomes evident that the borrower will not make payments, or will not or cannot meet the terms for renewal of a matured loan;
● When full repayment of principal and interest is not expected;
● When the loan is graded “doubtful”;
● When the borrower files bankruptcy and an approved plan of reorganization or liquidation is not anticipated in the near future; or
● When foreclosure action is initiated.
When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, income recognition is ceased. Previously recorded but uncollected amounts of interest on nonaccrual loans are reversed at the time the loan is placed on nonaccrual status. Generally, cash collected on nonaccrual loans is applied to principal. Should full collection of principal be expected, cash collected on nonaccrual loans can be recognized as interest income.
For all classes of loans receivable, nonaccrual loans may be restored to accrual status provided the following criteria are met:
● The loan is current, and all principal and interest amounts contractually due have been made;
● All principal and interest amounts contractually due, including past due payments, are reasonably assured of repayment within a reasonable period; and
● There is a period of minimum repayment performance, as follows, by the borrower in accordance with contractual terms:
o
Six months of repayment performance for contractual monthly payments, or
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
o
One year of repayment performance for contractual quarterly or semi-annual payments.
Direct finance leases receivable, held for investment: The Company leases machinery and equipment to customers under leases that qualify as direct financing leases for financial reporting and as operating leases for income tax purposes. Under the direct financing method of accounting, the minimum lease payments to be received under the lease contract, together with the estimated unguaranteed residual values (approximately 3% to 25% of the cost of the related equipment), are recorded as lease receivables when the lease is signed and the lease property delivered to the customer. The excess of the minimum lease payments and residual values over the cost of the equipment is recorded as unearned lease income. Unearned lease income is recognized over the term of the lease on a basis that results in an approximate level rate of return on the unrecovered lease investment.
Lease income is recognized on the interest method. Residual value is the estimated fair market value of the equipment on lease at lease termination. In estimating the equipment’s fair value at lease termination, the Company relies on historical experience by equipment type and manufacturer and, where available, valuations by independent appraisers, adjusted for known trends.
The Company’s estimates are reviewed continuously to ensure reasonableness; however, the amounts the Company will ultimately realize could differ from the estimated amounts. If the review results in a lower estimate than had been previously established, a determination is made as to whether the decline in estimated residual value is other-than-temporary. If the decline in estimated unguaranteed residual value is judged to be other-than-temporary, the accounting for the transaction is revised using the changed estimate. The resulting reduction in the investment is recognized as a loss in the period in which the estimate is changed. An upward adjustment of the estimated residual value is not recorded.
The policies for delinquency and nonaccrual for direct financing leases are materially consistent with those described above for all classes of loan receivables.
Loan modifications: Prior to 2023, TDRs existed when the Company, for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower’s/lessee’s financial difficulties, granted a concession (either imposed by court order, law, or agreement between the borrower/lessee and the Company) to the borrower/lessee that it would not otherwise have considered. The Company attempts to maximize its recovery of the balances of the loans/leases through these various concessionary restructurings.
The following criteria, related to granting a concession, together or separately, created a TDR:
● A modification of terms of a debt such as one or a combination of:
o
The reduction of the stated interest rate to a rate lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk.
o
The extension of the maturity date or dates at a stated interest rate lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk.
o
The reduction of the face amount or maturity amount of the debt as stated in the instrument or other agreement.
o
The reduction of accrued interest.
● A transfer from the borrower/lessee to the Company of receivables from third parties, real estate, other assets, or an equity position in the borrower to fully or partially satisfy a loan.
● The issuance or other granting of an equity position to the Company to fully or partially satisfy a debt unless the equity position is granted pursuant to existing terms for converting the debt into an equity position.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU 2022-02. Under the new standard, the accounting guidance on TDRs for creditors was eliminated and enhanced disclosures required for creditors with respect to loan refinancings and restructuring for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. A modification for a borrower experiencing financial difficulty meets disclosure requirements if it includes any one or combination of the following:
● Principal forgiveness
● Interest-rate reduction
● Other-than-insignificant payment delay
● Term extension
Allowance:
Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans and Leases
The ACL on loans/leases is measured on a collective (pool) basis when similar risk characteristics exist. The Company has identified the eight portfolio segments at which the allowance will be measured. For all portfolio segments, the allowance is established as losses are estimated to have occurred through a provision that is charged to earnings. Credit losses on loans and leases, for all portfolio segments, are charged against the allowance when management believes the uncollectability of a loan/lease balance is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.
The Company’s methodologies for estimating the ACL consider available relevant information about the collectability of cash flows, including information about past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The methodologies apply historical loss information adjusted for asset-specific characteristics, economic conditions at the measurement date, and forecasts about future economic conditions that are expected to exist through the contractual lives of the financial assets and that are reasonable and supportable to the identified pools of financial assets with similar risk characteristics for which the historical loss experience was observed. The Company will immediately and fully revert back to average historical losses when it can no longer develop reasonable and supportable forecasts.
A discussion of the risk characteristics and the allowance by each portfolio segment follows:
For C&I loans, the Company focuses on small and mid-sized businesses with primary operations as wholesalers, manufacturers, building contractors, business services companies, other banks, and retailers. The Company provides a wide range of C&I loans, including lines of credit for working capital and operational purposes, and term loans for the acquisition of facilities, equipment and other purposes. Approval is generally based on the following factors:
● Ability and stability of current management of the borrower;
● Stable earnings with positive financial trends;
● Sufficient cash flow to support debt repayment;
● Earnings projections based on reasonable assumptions;
● Financial strength of the industry and business; and
● Value and marketability of collateral.
Collateral for C&I loans generally includes accounts receivable, inventory and equipment. The Company’s lending policy specifies approved collateral types and corresponding maximum advance percentages. The value of collateral pledged on loans must exceed the loan amount by a margin sufficient to absorb potential erosion of its value in the event of foreclosure and cover the loan amount plus costs incurred to convert it to cash.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Account Policies (continued)
The Company’s lending policy specifies maximum term limits for C&I loans. For term loans, the maximum term is generally seven years with average terms ranging from three to five years. For lines of credit, the maximum term is generally 365 days.
In addition, the Company often takes personal guarantees or cosigners to help assure repayment. Loans may be made on an unsecured basis if warranted by the overall financial condition of the borrower.
CRE is segmented into the following categories generally based on source of repayment: Owner occupied CRE, non-owner occupied CRE and multi-family. CRE loans are also embedded in the following segments: construction and land development and 1-4 family real estate. The Company is an active lender of LIHTC project loans which includes both the construction and permanent loan. Due to lower default rates, LIHTC loans have historically shown to have a lower risk profile than other CRE loans, and typically make up over a third of the Company’s CRE portfolio. CRE loans are subject to underwriting standards and processes similar to C&I loans, in addition to those standards and processes specific to real estate loans. Collateral for CRE loans generally includes the underlying real estate and improvements and may include additional assets of the borrower. The Company’s lending policy specifies maximum loan-to-value limits based on the category of CRE (CRE loans on improved property, raw land, land development, and commercial construction). These limits are the same limits, or in some situations, more conservative than those established by regulatory authorities. The Company also reviews CRE concentrations by industry in relation to risk-based capital on a quarterly basis.
Multi-family loans are typically repaid from rental income. LIHTC permanent loans are included in multi-family loans and the maximum term is generally up to 20 years.
The Company’s lending policy also includes guidelines for real estate appraisals, including minimum appraisal standards based on certain transactions. In addition, the Company often takes personal guarantees to help assure repayment.
Construction loans include any loans to finance the construction of any new residential property, CRE property, low-income housing project or major rehabilitation or expansion of existing commercial structures. Construction lending carries a higher degree of risk because of the difficulty of protecting the bank against various factors. The following components are evaluated when underwriting these types of loans:
● Borrowers/contractors experience and ability is analyzed with the type and size of project being considered.
● Financial ability to cover cost overruns.
● Reliability and thoroughness of cost projections and reasonable assurance that significant provisions are made for contingencies for soft costs especially interest and operating deficits.
● Reliability of the estimate of time to complete the project.
The land development portfolio also includes other land loans such as raw land. The raw land component involves considerable risk to the bank and is reserved for the bank’s most credit worthy borrowers. Land development loans are typically only made to experienced local developers with successful track records.
For all loans the allowance consists of pooled and individually analyzed components. Pooled loan allowances consist of quantitative and qualitative factors and cover loan classes that share similar risk characteristics with other assets in the segmented pool.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Quantitative Factors:
The quantitative factors are based on the probability of default and loss given default derived from historical net charge-off experience, repayment activity and default, remaining life, and current economic conditions as well as economic outlook.
Qualitative Factors:
The Company’s allowance methodology also has a qualitative component, the purpose of which is to take into consideration changes in current conditions that are not reflected in the quantitative analysis performed in determining its base credit loss rates.
The Company utilizes the following qualitative factors:
● National and local economy
● Loan volume and trend
● Loan quality
● Loan policies and procedures
● Management and staff experience
● Concentrations
● Collateral
● Loan review system
● Regulatory environment and oversight
The Company also provides for unique circumstances with qualitative adjustments as needed. The qualitative adjustments are based on the current conditions and applied as a percentage adjustment in addition to the calculated historical loss rates. The adjustment amount can be either positive or negative. These adjustments reflect the extent to which the Company expects current conditions to differ from the conditions that existed for the period over which historical information was evaluated.
Economic forecasting:
The Company uses reasonable and supportable forecasts over the contractual term of the financial assets for each entity. This measurement is based upon relevant past events, historical experience and current conditions to determine the forecasted data which requires significant judgement. When management no longer has sufficient information to make a reasonable and supportable forecast, the data will then immediately revert back to the average historical performance for each entity. These forecasted adjustments are added to the qualitative adjustments and applied as a percentage adjustment in addition to the historical loss rates.
It is expected that actual economic conditions will, in many circumstances, turn out differently than forecasted because the ultimate outcomes during the forecast period may be affected by events that were unforeseen, such as, but not limited to, economic disruption and fiscal or monetary policy actions, which are exacerbated by longer forecasting periods. This uncertainty would be relevant to the entity’s confidence level as to the outcomes being forecasted. That is, an entity is likely less confident in the ultimate outcome of events that will occur at the end of the forecast period as compared to the beginning. As a result, actual future economic conditions may not be an effective indicator of the quality of the Company’s forecasting process, including the length of the forecast period.
Loans are determined to no longer share similar risk characteristics with other assets in the segmented pool when their scheduled payments of principal and interest according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement, have a greater probability of uncollectability based on current information and events. Such events include past due status of 90 days
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
or more, non-accrual status or classification of a substandard or doubtful risk rating.
Factors considered by management in determining risk rating and non-accrual status 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 considered low quality. 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. Allowances for these low quality loans with outstanding principal balances greater than $250,000 are measured on a case-by-case basis 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.
Low quality loans with principal balances equal to or less than $250,000 are placed into a unique pool and have the overall effective loss rate for that period applied to this low quality pool. However, should an asset within the low quality pool no longer have the same risk characteristic of the unique pool, it will be removed and individually analyzed as described above.
Some loans that are determined to no longer share risk characteristics with other assets in the segmented pool, may be deemed collateral dependent. A financial asset is collateral-dependent when the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the sale or operation of the collateral. When
it is determined that foreclosure is probable, the collateral’s fair value is used to estimate the financial assets expected credit losses for the current reporting period. This fair value is then reduced by the present value of estimated costs to sell. If it is determined that the asset is collateral-dependent, but foreclosure is not probable, an institution can elect
to apply the practical expedient to use the collateral’s fair value to estimate the asset’s expected credit loss. The Company is choosing to utilize the practical expedient. When using the practical expedient on a collateral dependent
loan where repayment is reliant upon the sale of the collateral, the fair value of that collateral will be adjusted for estimated costs to sell. However, if the repayment is dependent on the operations of the company, the fair market value less estimated cost to sell cannot be used. Thus, the net present value of the cash-flow will be utilized.
For non-homogenous loans, the Company utilizes the following internal risk rating scale:
1. Highest Quality (Pass) - loans of the highest quality with no credit risk, including those fully secured by subsidiary bank certificates of deposit and U.S. government securities.
2. Superior Quality (Pass) - loans with very strong credit quality. Borrowers have exceptionally strong earnings, liquidity, capital, cash flow coverage, and management ability. Includes loans secured by high quality marketable securities, certificates of deposit from other institutions, and cash value of life insurance. Also includes loans supported by U.S. government, state, or municipal guarantees.
3. Satisfactory Quality (Pass) - loans with satisfactory credit quality. Established borrowers with satisfactory financial condition, including credit quality, earnings, liquidity, capital and cash flow coverage. Management is capable and experienced. Collateral coverage and guarantor support, if applicable, are more than adequate. Includes loans secured by personal assets and business assets, including equipment, accounts receivable, inventory, and real estate.
4. Fair Quality (Pass) - loans with moderate but still acceptable credit quality. The primary repayment source remains adequate; however, management’s ability to maintain consistent profitability is unproven or uncertain. Borrowers exhibit acceptable leverage and liquidity. May include new businesses with inexperienced management or unproven performance records in relation to peer, or borrowers operating in highly cyclical or declining industries.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
5. Early Warning (Pass) - loans where the borrowers have generally performed as agreed, however unfavorable financial trends exist or are anticipated. Earnings may be erratic, with marginal cash flow or declining sales. borrowers reflect leveraged financial condition and/or marginal liquidity. Management may be new and a track record of performance has yet to be developed. Financial information may be incomplete, and reliance on secondary repayment sources may be increasing.
6. Special Mention - loans where the borrowers exhibit credit weaknesses or unfavorable financial trends requiring close monitoring. Weaknesses and adverse trends are more pronounced than Early Warning loans, and if left uncorrected, may jeopardize repayment according to the contractual terms. Currently, no loss of principal or interest is expected. Borrowers in this category have deteriorated to the point that it would be difficult to refinance with another lender. Special Mention should be assigned to borrowers in turnaround situations. This rating is intended as a transitional rating, therefore, it is generally not assigned to a borrower for a period of more than one year.
7. Substandard - loans which are inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if applicable. These loans have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses which jeopardize repayment according to the contractual terms. There is distinct loss potential if the weaknesses are not corrected. Includes loans with insufficient cash flow coverage which are collateral dependent, OREO, and repossessed assets.
8. Doubtful - loans which have all the weaknesses inherent in a Substandard loan, with the added characteristic that existing weaknesses make full principal collection, on the basis of current facts, conditions and values, highly doubtful. The possibility of loss is extremely high, but because of pending factors, recognition of a loss is deferred until a more exact status can be determined. All doubtful loans will be placed on non-accrual, with all payments, including principal and interest, applied to principal reduction.
For term C&I and CRE loans equal to or greater than $1.0 million, the subsidiary banks with an asset size of $1.0 billion or less as of the most recent fiscal year-end require a term loan review within 15 months of the most recent credit review. For the subsidiary banks with an asset size of over $1.0 billion as of the most recent fiscal year-end, a term loan review is required within 15 months of the most recent credit review for term C&I and CRE loans of $2.0 million or more. A credit review encompasses any new debt issuances or renewed debt facilities that are part of the borrower’s credit relationship. The term loan/credit review is completed in enough detail to, at a minimum, validate the risk rating. Additionally, the review shall include an analysis of debt service requirements, covenant compliance, if applicable, and collateral adequacy. The frequency of the review is generally accelerated for loans with poor risk ratings.
The Company’s Loan Quality area performs a documentation review of a sampling of C&I and CRE loans, the primary purpose of which is to ensure the credit is properly documented and closed in accordance with approval authorities and conditions. A review is also performed by the Company’s Internal Audit Department of a sampling of C&I and CRE loans for proper documentation, according to an approved schedule. Validation of the risk rating is also part of Internal Audit’s review (performed by Internal Loan Review). Additionally, the Company has contracted an independent outside third party to review a sampling of C&I and CRE loans. Validation of the risk rating is part of this review as well.
The Company leases machinery and equipment to C&I customers under direct financing leases. All lease requests are subject to the credit requirements and criteria as set forth in the lending/leasing policy. In all cases, a formal
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
independent credit analysis of the lessee is performed. Direct financing leases are included in the C&I-other segment and allowance is established in the same manner as C&I loans.
Generally, the Company’s residential real estate loans conform to the underwriting requirements of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae to allow the subsidiary banks to resell loans in the secondary market. The subsidiary banks structure most loans that will not conform to those underwriting requirements as adjustable rate mortgages that mature or adjust in one to five years or fixed rate mortgages that mature in 15 years, and then retain these loans in their portfolios.
Servicing rights are not presently retained on the loans sold in the secondary market. The Company’s lending policy establishes minimum appraisal and other credit guidelines.
The Company provides many types of installment and other consumer loans including motor vehicle, home improvement, home equity, signature loans and small personal credit lines. The Company’s lending policy addresses specific credit guidelines by consumer loan type.
For residential real estate loans, and installment and other consumer loans, these large groups of smaller balance homogenous loans follow the same methodology as commercial loans in terms of evaluation of risk characteristics, other than these may not be risk rated due to homogenous nature.
Allowance for Credit Losses on Off-Balance Sheet Exposures
The Company estimates expected credit losses over the contractual term of the loan for the unfunded portion of the loan commitment that is not unconditionally cancellable by the Company. Management uses an estimated average utilization rate to determine the exposure of default. The allowance on OBS exposures is calculated using probability of default and loss given default using the same segmentation and qualitative factors used for loans and leases. The allowance for OBS exposures is recorded in the Other Liabilities section of the consolidated balance sheet. The Company recorded an ACL on OBS exposures upon adoption of ASU 2016-13. See Note 4.
Allowance for Credit Losses on Held to Maturity Debt Securities
The Company measures expected credit losses on held to maturity debt securities on a collective basis based on security type. The estimate of expected credit losses considers historical credit information from external sources. The Company’s held to maturity debt securities consist primarily of investment grade obligations of states and political subdivisions. The Company recorded an ACL on HTM debt securities upon adoption of ASU 2016-13. See Note 3.
Allowance for Credit Losses on Available for Sale Debt Securities
Available for sale debt securities in unrealized loss positions are evaluated for credit related loss at least quarterly. The decline in fair value of an available for sale debt security due to credit loss results in recording an ACL to the extent the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Declines in fair value that have not been recorded through an ACL, such as declines due to changes in market interest rates, are recorded through other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. Although these evaluations involve significant judgment, an unrealized loss in the fair value of a debt security is generally considered to not be related to credit when the fair value of the security is below the carrying value primarily due to the changes in risk-free interest rates, there has not been significant deterioration in the financial condition of the issues, and the Company does not intend to sell nor does it believe it will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its cost basis. The Company did not record an ACL on AFS debt securities upon adoption of ASU 2016-13. See Note 3.
Credit related financial instruments: In the ordinary course of business, the Company has entered into commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Transfers of financial assets: Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales only when control over the assets has been surrendered. 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 to pledge or exchange the assets it received, and no condition both constrains the transferee from taking advantage of its right to pledge or exchange and provides more than a modest benefit to the transferor, and (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity or the ability to unilaterally cause the holder to return specific assets. In addition, for transfers of a portion of financial assets (for example, participations of loan receivables), the transfer must meet the definition of a “participating interest” in order to account for the transfer as a sale.
Following are the characteristics of a “participating interest”:
● Pro-rata ownership in an entire financial asset.
● From the date of the transfer, all cash flows received from entire financial assets are divided proportionately among the participating interest holders in an amount equal to their share of ownership.
● The rights of each participating interest holder have the same priority, and no participating interest holder’s interest is subordinated to the interest of another participating interest holder. That is, no participating interest
holder is entitled to receive cash before any other participating interest holder under its contractual rights as a participating interest holder.
● No party has the right to pledge or exchange the entire financial asset unless all participating interest holders agree to pledge or exchange the entire financial asset.
Loan securitizations: During 2023, the Company began securitizing and selling LIHTC loans through M and Q series Freddie Mac sponsored securitizations. The transfers of these loans are accounted for as a sale in accordance with ASC 860. The net gains/losses on sales are recognized in capital markets revenue on the consolidated statements of income. See further information in Note 5.
BOLI: BOLI is carried at cash surrender value with increases/decreases reflected as income/expense in the statement of income. Death benefit proceeds are reflected as income in the statement of income.
Premises and equipment: Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed primarily by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets.
Restricted investment securities: Restricted investment securities represent FHLB and FRB common stock. The stock is carried at cost. These equity securities are “restricted” in that they can only be sold back to the respective institution or another member institution at par. Therefore, they are less liquid than other tradable equity securities. The Company views its investment in restricted stock as a long-term investment. Accordingly, when evaluating for impairment, the value is determined based on the ultimate recovery of the par value, rather than recognizing temporary declines in value. There have been no other-than-temporary write-downs recorded on these securities.
OREO: Real estate acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosures, is held for sale and initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell, establishing a new cost basis. Any write down to fair value taken at the time of foreclosure is charged to the allowance. Subsequent to foreclosure, valuations are periodically performed by management and the assets are carried at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. Subsequent write-downs to fair value are charged to earnings.
Goodwill: The Company has recorded goodwill from various business combinations. The goodwill is not being amortized but is evaluated at least annually for impairment. The Company’s most recent analysis was performed as of November 30, 2023 and it was determined no goodwill impairment existed. See further information in Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Core deposit intangible: The Company has recorded a core deposit intangible from historical acquisitions. The core deposit intangible was the portion of the acquisition purchase price which represented the value assigned to the existing deposit base at acquisition. See Notes 2 and 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
The core deposit intangibles have a finite life and are amortized over the estimated useful life of the deposits (estimated to be 10 years).
Swap transactions: The Company offers a loan swap program to certain commercial loan customers including C&I, CRE, and multi-family which includes LIHTC permanent loans. Through this program, the Company originates a variable rate loan with the customer. The Company and the swap customer will then enter into a fixed interest rate swap. Separately, an identical offsetting swap is entered into by the Company with a counterparty. These “back-to-back” swap arrangements are intended to offset each other and allow the Company to book a variable rate loan, while providing the customer with a contract for fixed interest payments. In these arrangements, the Company’s net cash flow is equal to the interest income received from the variable rate loan originated with the customer. These customer swaps are not designated as hedging instruments and are recorded at fair value in other assets and other liabilities.
Additionally, the Company receives an upfront, non-refundable fee from the counterparty, dependent upon the pricing, which is recognized upon receipt from the counterparty. This upfront, non-refundable fee is recorded as noninterest income and classified as swap fee income/capital markets revenue.
Derivatives and hedging activities: The Company enters into derivative financial instruments as part of its strategy to manage its exposure to changes in interest rates.
Derivative instruments represent contracts between parties that result in one party delivering cash to the other party based on a notional amount and an underlying index (such as a rate, security price or price index) as specified in the contract. The amount of cash delivered from one party to the other is determined based on the interaction of the notional amount of the contract with the underlying index.
The derivative financial instruments currently used by the Company to manage its exposure to interest rate risk include: (1) interest rate lock commitments provided to customers to fund certain mortgage loans to be sold into the secondary market (although this type of derivative is negligible); (2) interest rate caps to manage the interest rate risk of certain variable rate deposits and short-term fixed rate liabilities; (3) interest rate swaps on variable rate trust preferred securities and both fixed and floating rate loans; and (4) interest rate collars on floating rate loans.
Derivatives are valued by a third party monthly and corroborated by the transaction counterparty. The Company uses the hypothetical derivative method to assess and measure effectiveness in accordance with ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging.
Preferred stock: The Company currently has 250,000 shares of preferred stock authorized, but none outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Should the Company have preferred stock outstanding in the future, dividends declared on those shares would be deducted from net income to arrive at net income available to common stockholders. Net income available to common stockholders would then be used in the earnings per share computation.
Stock-based compensation plans: The Company accounts for stock-based compensation with measurement of compensation cost for all stock-based awards at fair value on the grant date and recognition of compensation over the requisite service period for awards expected to vest.
As discussed in Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, the Company recognized stock-based compensation expense for the grant-date fair value of stock-based awards that are expected to vest over the requisite service period of $2.7 million, $2.4 million and $2.4 million,
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
respectively. As required, management made an estimate of expected forfeitures and is recognizing compensation costs only for those equity awards expected to vest.
The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock option grants with the following assumptions for the indicated periods:
Dividend yield
0.45%
0.43% to 0.45%
0.55%
Expected volatility
22.31%
22.65% to 23.52%
23.57%
Risk-free interest rate
4.22%
1.87% to 3.12%
1.62%
Expected life of option grants
6.25 years
6.25 years
6.25 years
Weighted-average grant date fair value
$
16.36
$
13.94 to 15.09
$
10.85
The Company also uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock purchase grants with the following assumptions for the indicated periods:
Dividend yield
0.48% to 0.58%
0.43% to 0.44%
0.49% to 0.61%
Expected volatility
15.86% to 29.69%
17.97% to 21.16%
37.51% to 38.65%
Risk-free interest rate
4.67% to 5.47%
0.14% to 2.24%
0% to 0.06%
Expected life of purchase grants
3 to 6 months
3 to 6 months
3 to 6 months
Weighted-average grant date fair value
$
8.35
$
7.88
$
7.67
The fair value is amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting periods of the grants and will be adjusted for subsequent changes in estimated forfeitures. The expected dividend yield assumption is based on the Company’s current expectations about its anticipated dividend policy. Expected volatility is based on historical volatility of the Company’s common stock price. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option or purchase is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant. The expected life of the option and purchase grants is derived using the “simplified” method and represents the period of time that options and purchases are expected to be outstanding. Historical data is used to estimate forfeitures used in the model. Two separate groups of employees (employees subject to broad based grants, and executive employees and directors) are used.
As of December 31, 2023, there was $566 thousand of unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options granted, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.77 years.
The aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between the exercise price of the underlying awards and the quoted price of the Company’s common stock for the 290,149 options that were in-the-money at December 31, 2023. The aggregate intrinsic value at December 31, 2023 was $7.6 million on options outstanding and $7.2 million on options exercisable. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised under the Company’s stock-based compensation was $440 thousand, $387 thousand, and $419 thousand, respectively, and determined as of the date of the option exercise.
Restricted stock awards granted may not be sold or otherwise transferred until the service periods have lapsed. During the vesting periods, participants have voting rights and receive dividends. Upon termination of employment, common shares upon which the service periods have not lapsed must be returned to the Company.
All restricted share awards are classified as equity awards. The grant-date fair value of equity-classified restricted stock awards is amortized as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the period restrictions lapse.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
As of December 31, 2023, there was $3.2 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested restricted stock awards expected to be recognized over a period of 1.77 years.
Income taxes: The Company files its tax return on a consolidated basis with its subsidiaries. The entities follow the direct reimbursement method of accounting for income taxes under which income taxes or credits which result from the inclusion of the subsidiaries in the consolidated tax return are paid to or received from the parent company.
Deferred income taxes are provided under the liability method whereby deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences and net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards and deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences. Temporary differences are the differences between the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment.
When tax returns are filed, it is highly certain that some positions taken would be sustained upon examination by the taxing authorities, while others are subject to uncertainty about the merits of the position taken or the amount of the position that would be ultimately sustained. The benefit of a tax position is recognized in the financial statements in the period during which, based on all available evidence, management believes it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including the resolution of appeals or litigation processes, if any. Tax positions taken are not offset or aggregated with other positions. Tax positions that meet the more likely than not recognition threshold are measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely of being realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefits associated with tax positions taken that exceeds the amount measured as described above is reflected as a liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying balance sheet along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon examination.
Interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits are classified as additional income taxes in the statements of income.
Trust assets: Trust assets held by the subsidiary banks in a fiduciary, agency, or custodial capacity for their customers, other than cash on deposit at the subsidiary banks, are not included in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements since such items are not assets of the subsidiary banks.
Earnings per share: See Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a complete description and calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share.
Revenue Recognition:
Trust and Investment advisory and management fees: This is a contract between the Company and its customers for fiduciary and/or investment administration services on trust and brokerage accounts. Trust services and brokerage fee income is determined as a percentage of assets under management and is recognized over the period the underlying trust account is serviced. Such contracts are generally cancellable at any time, with the customer subject to a pro-rated fee in the month of termination.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Deposit service fees: The deposit contract obligates the Company to serve as a custodian of the customer's deposited funds and is generally terminable at will by either party. The contract permits the customer to access the funds on deposit and request additional services related to the deposit account. Deposit account related fees, including analysis charges, overdraft/nonsufficient fund charges, service charges, debit card usage fees, overdraft fees and wire transfer fees are within the scope of the guidance; however, revenue recognition practices did not change under the guidance, as deposit agreements are considered day-to-day contracts. Income for deposit accounts is recognized over the statement cycle period (typically on a monthly basis) or at the time the service is provided, if additional services are requested.
Correspondent banking fees: This is a contract between the Company and its correspondent banks for corresponding banking services. This line of business provides a strong source of noninterest bearing and interest bearing deposits, fee income, high-quality loan participations and bank stock loans. Correspondent banking fee income is tied to transaction activity and revenue is recognized monthly as earned for services provided.
Reclassifications: Certain amounts in the prior year’s Consolidated Financial Statements have been reclassified, with no effect on net income or stockholders’ equity, to conform with the current period presentation.
Recent accounting developments: In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-4, “Reference Rate Reform,” which provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP to loan and lease arrangements, derivative contracts, and other transactions affected by the anticipated transition away from LIBOR toward new interest rate benchmarks. ASU 2020-04 is effective March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. An entity could elect to apply ASU 2020-04 for contract modifications as of January 1, 2020, or prospectively from a date within an interim period that includes or is subsequent to March 12, 2020, up to the date that the financial statements are available to be issued. In December 2022, in response to the postponement of the cessation date of LIBOR, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06 which defers the sunset date of the ASU 2020-4 guidance to December 31, 2024, after which entities will no longer be permitted to apply the relief.
Management has assessed the impacts of ASU 2020-4 and the related opportunities and risks involved in the LIBOR transition. Specifically, management has identified all of the financial instruments with LIBOR exposure which includes certain commercial loans, certain derivatives, and certain securities. In all cases, management determined a plan of transition from LIBOR to a different index. This transition occurred prior to the expiration of published LIBOR rates on June 30, 2023 and did not have a significant impact to the Company’s financial statements.
In April 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-02, Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures. Under the standard, the accounting guidance on troubled debt restructurings for creditors in ASC 310-40 is eliminated and guidance on “vintage disclosures” is amended to require disclosure of current-period gross write-offs by year of origination. The ASU also updates the requirements related to accounting for credit losses under ASC 326 and adds enhanced disclosures for creditors with respect to loan refinancings and restructurings for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. For public companies that have adopted ASC 326, the changes take effect in reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2022. The standard was adopted on January 1, 2023 and did not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.
In March 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-02, “Investments - Equity Method and Joint Venues (Topic 323): Accounting for Investments in Tax Credit Structures Using the Proportional Amortization Method (a Consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force).” Under the standard, the accounting guidance expands use of the proportional amortization method of accounting to equity investments in tax credit programs beyond those in LIHTC programs. The ASU also prescribes specific information reporting entities must disclose about tax credit investments each period.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
The ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2023, for public business entities, with all other entities having an extra year to adopt. Entities will have the option of applying the ASU using either a modified retrospective or retrospective adoption approach. For some changes related to existing LIHTC investments, prospective application is permitted. The standard is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures”. Under the standard, the accounting guidance expands the disclosures for reportable segments made by public entities to disclose significant expenses for reportable segments in both interim and annual reporting periods to enable investors to develop more decision-useful financial analyses. The ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. The standard is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures”. Under the standard, the accounting guidance enhances the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. Investors, lenders, creditors and other allocators of capital information will be able to use the expanded disclosures to better assess how an entity’s operations and related tax risks and tax planning and operation opportunities affect its tax rate and prospects for future cash flows. The ASU is effective for public business entities for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. The standard is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.
Note 2. Mergers/Acquisitions/Sales
GFED Acquisition
On April 1, 2022, the Company acquired GFED and on April 2, 2022 merged GFED’s bank subsidiary with and into SFCB, the Company’s Springfield-based charter. The combined bank changed its name to “Guaranty Bank”.
Stockholders of GFED received for each share of GFED common stock owned, at the election of each stockholder, subject to proration and adjustment, (1) $30.50 in cash, (2) 0.58775 shares of the Company’s common stock, or (3) mixed consideration of $6.10 in cash and 0.4702 shares of the Company’s common stock. On March 31, 2022, the last trading date before the closing date, the Company’s common stock closed at $56.59, resulting in stock consideration valued at $117.2 million and total cash consideration paid by the Company of $26.9 million. The Company funded the cash portion of the purchase price through operating cash.
The acquisition of GFED supports the strategic goals of the Company. It allows for increased product and service capabilities of the combined bank and the Company anticipates it will result in strong growth in Springfield, Missouri and its surrounding communities.
The Company accounted for the business combination under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805. The Company recognized the full fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, net of applicable income tax effects. The Company considers all purchase accounting adjustments as provisional and fair values are subject to refinement for up to one year after the closing date due to timing of third party reports and management’s reviews of reports. Measurement period adjustments were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2023. See Note 7.
The excess of the consideration paid over the fair value of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. This goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 2. Mergers/Acquisitions/Sales (continued)
The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed including the consideration paid and resulting goodwill is as follows:
As of
April 1, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks
$
171,844
Interest-bearing deposits at financial institutions
17,134
Securities
143,017
Loans/leases receivable, net
801,697
Bank-owned life insurance
32,100
Premises and equipment
16,257
Restricted investment securities
2,220
Other real estate owned
Intangibles
10,264
Other assets
23,685
Total assets acquired
$
1,218,273
LIABILITIES
Deposits
$
1,076,573
FHLB advances
16,000
Subordinated notes
19,621
Junior subordinated debentures
10,310
Other liabilities*
15,225
Total liabilities assumed
$
1,137,729
Net assets acquired
$
80,544
CONSIDERATION PAID:
Cash
$
26,871
Common stock
117,214
Total consideration paid
$
144,085
Goodwill*
$
63,541
* See Note 7 regarding measurement period adjustments recorded during the year ended December 31, 2023.
The Company acquired $143.0 million of securities and subsequent to the closing, the Company sold $111.4 million of the acquired securities portfolio to improve the efficiency of the combined balance sheets.
The Company acquired loans both with and without evidence of credit quality deterioration since origination. Acquired loans are recorded at their fair value at the time of acquisition with no carryover from the acquired institution’s previously recorded allowance for loan and lease losses. Acquired loans are accounted for under ASC 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses.
The fair value of acquired loans recorded at the time of acquisition is based upon several factors, including the timing and payment of expected cash flows, as adjusted for estimated credit losses and prepayments, and then discounting these cash flows using comparable market rates. The resulting fair value adjustment is recorded in the form of a premium or discount to the unpaid principal balance of the respective loans. As it relates to acquired loans that, as of the date of acquisition, have experienced a more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination (“PCD”), the net premium or net discount is adjusted to reflect the Company’s allowance for credit losses recorded for PCD loans at the time of acquisition, and the remaining fair value adjustment is accreted or amortized into interest income over the remaining life of the respective loans. As it relates to loans not classified as PCD (“non-PCD”) loans, the credit loss and yield components of their fair value adjustment are aggregated, and the resulting net premium or net discount is accreted or amortized into interest income over the remaining life of the respective loans. The Company recorded an accretable discount of $12.0 million on the non-PCD loans. The Company also recorded an ACL for non-PCD loans at the time of acquisition through provision expense of $11.0 million (pre-tax).
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 2. Mergers/Acquisitions/Sales (continued)
The carrying amount of loans acquired and classified as PCD is as follows:
Guaranty Bank
April 1, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
Principal balance of PCD loans at acquisition
$
38,711
Allowance for credit losses at acquisition
(5,902)
Non-credit discount at acquisition
(1,366)
Fair value of PCD loans at acquisition
$
31,443
Premises and equipment acquired with a fair value of $16.3 million includes sixteen branch locations. The fair value was determined with the assistance of a third-party appraiser. The assets and related fair value adjustments will be recognized as an increase in depreciation expense over 39 years.
The Company recorded a core deposit intangible totaling $10.3 million, which is the portion of the acquisition purchase price that represents the value assigned to the existing deposit base. The core deposit intangible has a finite life and is amortized using an accelerated method over the estimated useful life of the deposits (estimated to be ten years).
The following table presents the assumed borrowings as of the acquisition date:
Amount
Rate
Terms
Maturity Date
Collateral
(dollars in thousands)
FHLB advance
6,500
0.59%
monthly interest payments; principal due at maturity
5/15/2023
commercial and residential real estate loans
FHLB advance
6,500
0.82%
monthly interest payments; principal due at maturity
5/15/2025
commercial and residential real estate loans
FHLB advance
3,000
1.12%
monthly interest payments; principal due at maturity
5/17/2027
commercial and residential real estate loans
Subordinated notes
19,621
5.25%
monthly interest payments; principal due at maturity
9/30/2030
unsecured
Junior subordinated debentures
10,310
4.09%
monthly interest payments; principal due at maturity
2/23/2036
unsecured
Fair value of borrowings assumed
$ 45,931
The Company prepaid the $16.0 million of FHLB advances in full shortly after closing.
During 2022, the Company incurred $3.7 million of expenses related to the acquisition, comprised primarily of legal, accounting, investment banking costs and personnel costs, and $5.5 million of post-acquisition, compensation, transition and integration costs, comprised primarily of personnel costs, IT integration and data conversion costs related to the acquisition. GB results are included in the consolidated statements of income effective on the acquisition date.
Unaudited pro forma combined operating results for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, giving effect to the GFED acquisition as if it had occurred as of January 1, 2021, are as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31,
Net interest income
$
242,161
$
222,839
Noninterest income
$
82,966
$
114,095
Net income
$
119,899
$
99,606
Earnings per common share:
Basic
$
6.97
$
5.60
Diluted
$
6.89
$
5.53
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 3. Investment Securities
The amortized cost and fair value of HTM and AFS investment securities as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are summarized as follows:
Allowance
Gross
Gross
Amortized
for Credit
Unrealized
Unrealized
Fair
Cost
(Losses)
Gains
(Losses)
Value
(dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2023:
Securities HTM:
Municipal securities
$
682,657
$
(202)
$
33,385
$
(36,639)
$
679,201
Other securities
1,050
(1)
(15)
1,078
$
683,707
$
(203)
$
33,429
$
(36,654)
$
680,279
Securities AFS:
U.S. treasuries and govt. sponsored agency securities
$
17,399
$
-
$
$
(2,438)
$
14,973
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
65,168
-
-
(5,972)
59,196
Municipal securities
206,566
-
(35,590)
170,987
Asset-backed securities
15,261
-
(5)
15,423
Other securities
44,239
(989)
-
(4,174)
39,076
$
348,633
$
(989)
$
$
(48,179)
$
299,655
* HTM securities shown on the balance sheet of $683.5 million represent amortized cost of $683.7 million, net of allowance for credit losses of $203 thousand as of December 31, 2023.
Allowance
Gross
Gross
Amortized
for Credit
Unrealized
Unrealized
Fair
Cost
(Losses)
Gains
(Losses)
Value
(dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2022:
Securities HTM:
Municipal securities
$
586,272
$
(180)
$
5,292
$
(56,798)
$
534,586
Other securities
1,050
-
-
-
1,050
$
587,322
$
(180)
$
5,292
$
(56,798)
$
535,636
Securities AFS:
U.S. govt. sponsored agency securities
$
19,745
$
-
$
$
(2,783)
$
16,981
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
73,438
-
-
(7,223)
66,215
Municipal securities
239,812
-
(46,700)
193,178
Asset-backed securities
18,885
-
(205)
18,728
Other securities
48,631
-
(2,800)
45,858
$
400,511
$
-
$
$
(59,711)
$
340,960
* HTM securities shown on the balance sheet of $587.1 million represent amortized cost of $587.3 million, net of allowance for credit losses of $180 thousand as of December 31, 2022.
The Company’s HTM municipal securities consist largely of private issues of municipal debt. The municipalities are located primarily within the Greater Midwest. The municipal debt investments are underwritten using specific guidelines with ongoing monitoring.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 3. Investment Securities (continued)
The Company’s residential mortgage-backed and related securities portfolio consists entirely of government sponsored or government guaranteed securities. The Company has not invested in commercial mortgage-backed securities or pooled trust preferred securities.
Gross unrealized losses and fair value, aggregated by HTM and AFS investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, are summarized in the tables below. Securities AFS, for which an allowance for credit losses has been provided, are not included in these disclosures as there are no unrealized losses remaining after consideration of the ACL.
Less than 12 Months
12 Months or More
Total
Gross
Gross
Gross
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
Value
Losses
Value
Losses
Value
Losses
(dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2023:
Securities HTM:
Municipal securities
$
1,320
$
(11)
$
289,891
$
(36,628)
$
291,211
$
(36,639)
Other securities
(15)
-
-
(15)
$
1,855
$
(26)
$
289,891
$
(36,628)
$
291,746
$
(36,654)
Securities AFS:
U.S. treasuries and govt. sponsored agency securities
$
-
$
-
$
14,018
$
(2,438)
$
14,018
$
(2,438)
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
-
-
59,118
(5,972)
59,118
(5,972)
Municipal securities
(2)
169,876
(35,588)
170,159
(35,590)
Asset-backed securities
-
-
3,804
(5)
3,804
(5)
Other securities
3,805
(393)
35,271
(3,781)
39,076
(4,174)
$
4,088
$
(395)
$
282,087
$
(47,784)
$
286,175
$
(48,179)
Less than 12 Months
12 Months or More
Total
Gross
Gross
Gross
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
Fair
Unrealized
Value
Losses
Value
Losses
Value
Losses
(dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2022:
Securities HTM:
Municipal securities
$
347,651
$
(56,798)
$
-
$
-
$
347,651
$
(56,798)
Securities AFS:
U.S. treasuries and govt. sponsored agency securities
$
5,138
$
(326)
$
10,591
$
(2,457)
$
15,729
$
(2,783)
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
48,469
(3,327)
17,690
(3,896)
66,159
(7,223)
Municipal securities
178,172
(42,661)
9,809
(4,039)
187,981
(46,700)
Asset-backed securities
13,684
(205)
-
-
13,684
(205)
Other securities
35,206
(2,404)
4,122
(396)
39,328
(2,800)
$
280,669
$
(48,923)
$
42,212
$
(10,788)
$
322,881
$
(59,711)
At December 31, 2023, the investment portfolio included 657 securities. Of this number, 493 securities were in an unrealized loss position. The aggregate losses of these securities totaled approximately 8.22% of the total aggregate amortized cost. Of these 493 securities, 475 securities had an unrealized loss for 12 months or more. Management has concluded unrealized losses are temporary due to changing interest rates.
In the first quarter of 2023, the Company’s impairment evaluation determined that one publicly traded debt security experienced a decline in fair value due to credit quality, rather than market factors. As a result, the Company recognized a credit loss expense of $989 thousand and established an ACL on the related AFS security. There has been no change to the ACL on the related AFS security during the last three quarters of 2023.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 3. Investment Securities (continued)
The following table presents the activity in the allowance for credit losses for HTM and AFS securities by major security type for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Securities HTM
Securities AFS
Securities HTM
Securities AFS
Municipal
Other
Corporate
Municipal
Corporate
securities
securities
Total
securities
securities
securities
Allowance for credit losses:
Beginning balance
$
$
-
$
$
-
$
$
-
Provision for credit loss expense
(18)
-
Balance, ending
$
$
$
$
$
$
-
Trading securities had a fair value of $22.4 million as of December 31, 2023 and consist of retained beneficial interests acquired in conjunction with Freddie Mac securitizations completed by the Company in 2023. See also Note 5 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the details of these securitizations.
There were no transfers of securities between classifications during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
All sales of securities for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, were from securities identified as AFS. Information on proceeds received, as well as the gains and losses from the sale of those securities are as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
Proceeds from sales of securities
$
30,568
$
111,375
$
23,874
Gross gains from sales of securities
-
-
Gross losses from sales of securities
(507)
-
(88)
Subsequent to the closing of the GFED acquisition, the Company sold $111.4 million of the acquired securities portfolio to improve the efficiency of the combined balance sheets. These were the only securities sales for the year ended December 31, 2022.
The amortized cost and fair value of HTM and AFS securities as of December 31, 2023, by contractual maturity are shown below. Expected maturities of residential mortgage-backed and related securities and asset-backed securities may differ from contractual maturities because the mortgages underlying the securities may be called or prepaid without any penalties. Therefore, these securities are not included in the maturity categories in the following table.
Amortized Cost
Fair Value
(dollars in thousands)
Securities HTM:
Due in one year or less
$
1,876
$
1,867
Due after one year through five years
27,293
29,060
Due after five years
654,538
649,352
$
683,707
$
680,279
Securities AFS:
Due in one year or less
$
$
Due after one year through five years
16,819
14,815
Due after five years
250,417
209,257
268,204
225,036
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
65,168
59,196
Asset-backed securities
15,261
15,423
$
348,633
$
299,655
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 3. Investment Securities (continued)
Portions of the U.S. government sponsored agency securities and municipal securities contain call options, which, at the discretion of the issuer, terminate the security at par and at predetermined dates prior to the stated maturity, summarized as follows:
Amortized Cost
Fair Value
(dollars in thousands)
Securities HTM:
Municipal securities
$
261,340
$
257,714
Securities AFS:
Municipal securities
205,165
169,604
Other securities
43,283
38,133
$
248,448
$
207,737
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, HTM and AFS investment securities with a carrying value of $117.8 million and $47.0 million, respectively, were pledged on public deposits, FHLB advances, derivative liabilities, in connection with the Federal Reserve’s Bank Term Funding program, and in connection with a Goldman Sachs cash management program. Additionally, trading securities with a carrying value of $16.2 million are pledged to provide first loss support to Freddie Mac in conjunction with loan securitizations.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s municipal securities portfolios were comprised of general obligation bonds issued by 82 issuers with fair values totaling $99.4 million and revenue bonds issued by 169 issuers, primarily consisting of states, counties, towns, villages and school districts with fair values totaling $750.8 million. The Company held investments in general obligation bonds in 18 states, including eight states in which the aggregate fair value exceeded $5.0 million. The Company held investments in revenue bonds in 31 states, including 15 states in which the aggregate fair value exceeded $5.0 million.
As of December 31, 2022, the Company’s municipal securities portfolios were comprised of general obligation bonds issued by 118 issuers with fair values totaling $110.6 million and revenue bonds issued by 181 issuers, primarily consisting of states, counties, towns, villages and school districts with fair values totaling $617.2 million. The Company held investments in general obligation bonds in 22 states, including seven states in which the aggregate fair value exceeded $5.0 million. The Company held investments in revenue bonds in 29 states, including 12 states in which the aggregate fair value exceeded $5.0 million.
Both general obligation and revenue bonds are diversified across many issuers. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company held revenue bonds of two issuers, located in Ohio, the aggregate book or market value of which exceeded 5% of the Company’s stockholders’ equity. The issuers’ financial condition is strong and the source of repayment is diversified. The Company monitors the investment and concentration closely. Of the general obligation and revenue bonds in the Company’s portfolio, the majority are unrated bonds that represent small, private issuances. All unrated bonds were underwritten according to loan underwriting standards and have an average risk rating of 2, indicating very high quality. Additionally, many of these bonds are funding essential municipal services, such as water, sewer, education and medical facilities.
The Company’s municipal securities are owned by each of the four charters, whose investment policies set forth limits for various subcategories within the municipal securities portfolio. The investments of each charter are monitored individually, and as of December 31, 2023, all were within policy limitations approved by the Company’s board of directors. Policy limits are calculated as a percentage of each charter’s total risk-based capital.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s standard monitoring of its municipal securities portfolio had not uncovered any facts or circumstances resulting in significantly different credits ratings than those assigned by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization, or in the case of unrated bonds, the rating assigned using the credit underwriting standards.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable
The composition of the loan/lease portfolio as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is presented as follows:
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
C&I:
C&I - revolving
$
325,243
$
296,869
C&I - other *
1,481,778
1,451,693
1,807,021
1,748,562
CRE - owner occupied
607,365
629,367
CRE - non-owner occupied
1,008,892
963,239
Construction and land development
1,420,525
1,192,061
Multi-family
996,143
963,803
Direct financing leases**
31,164
31,889
1-4 family real estate***
544,971
499,529
Consumer
127,335
110,421
6,543,416
6,138,871
Allowance for credit losses
(87,200)
(87,706)
$
6,456,216
$
6,051,165
** Direct financing leases:
Net minimum lease payments to be received
$
34,966
$
34,754
Estimated unguaranteed residual values of leased assets
Unearned lease/residual income
(3,967)
(3,030)
31,164
31,889
Plus deferred lease origination costs, net of fees
31,239
32,115
Less allowance for credit losses
(992)
(970)
$
30,247
$
31,145
* Includes equipment financing agreements outstanding at m2, totaling $319.5 million and $278.0 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
** Management performs an evaluation of the estimated unguaranteed residual values of leased assets on an annual basis, at a minimum. The evaluation consists of discussions with reputable and current vendors and management’s expertise and understanding of the current states of particular industries to determine informal valuations of the equipment. As necessary and where available, management will utilize valuations by independent appraisers. The majority of leases with residual values contain a lease options rider which requires the lessee to pay the residual value directly, finance the payment of the residual value, or extend the lease term to pay the residual value. In these cases, the residual value is protected and the risk of loss is minimal.
At December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company had two leases remaining with residual values totaling $165 thousand that were not protected with a lease end options rider. Management has performed specific evaluations of these unguaranteed residual values and determined that the valuations are appropriate. There were no losses related to unguaranteed residual values during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021.
*** Includes residential real estate loans held for sale totaling $2.6 million and $1.5 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
Accrued interest on loans, which is excluded from the amortized cost of loans, totaled $31.8 million and $24.3 million at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, and was included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
Changes in accretable discounts on acquired loans for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, are presented as follows:
Year ended
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Performing
Performing
Performing
Loans
Loans
Loans
(dollars in thousands)
Balance at the beginning of the period
$
(6,088)
$
(1,533)
$
(3,139)
Discount added at acquisition
-
(13,381)
-
Accretion recognized
2,197
8,826
1,606
Balance at the end of the period
$
(3,891)
$
(6,088)
$
(1,533)
The aging of the loan/lease portfolio by classes of loans/leases as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is presented as follows:
Accruing Past
30-59 Days
60-89 Days
Due 90 Days or
Nonaccrual
Classes of Loans/Leases
Current
Past Due
Past Due
More
Loans/Leases
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C&I:
C&I - revolving
$
325,243
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
325,243
C&I - other
1,459,818
4,848
5,603
11,508
1,481,778
CRE - owner occupied
604,602
-
-
2,680
607,365
CRE - non-owner occupied
1,003,267
-
-
4,994
1,008,892
Construction and land development
1,418,016
-
-
-
2,509
1,420,525
Multi-family
987,971
-
-
-
8,172
996,143
Direct financing leases
30,501
-
31,164
1-4 family real estate
538,229
3,883
2,240
544,971
Consumer
126,868
-
127,335
$
6,494,515
$
9,651
$
6,411
$
$
32,753
$
6,543,416
As a percentage of total loan/lease portfolio
99.25
%
0.15
%
0.10
%
0.00
%
0.50
%
100.00
%
Accruing Past
30-59 Days
60-89 Days
Due 90 Days or
Nonaccrual
Classes of Loans/Leases
Current
Past Due
Past Due
More
Loans/Leases
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C&I
C&I - revolving
$
296,869
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
296,869
C&I - other
1,442,629
4,800
1,124
3,135
1,451,693
CRE - owner occupied
625,611
1,166
-
-
2,590
629,367
CRE - non-owner occupied
962,444
-
-
963,239
Construction and land development
1,191,929
-
-
-
1,192,061
Multi-family
963,803
-
-
-
-
963,803
Direct financing leases
31,557
-
31,889
1-4 family real estate
495,936
1,030
-
2,046
499,529
Consumer
110,041
-
-
110,421
$
6,120,819
$
7,585
$
1,697
$
$
8,765
$
6,138,871
As a percentage of total loan/lease portfolio
99.71
%
0.12
%
0.03
%
0.00
%
0.14
%
100.00
%
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
NPLs by classes of loans/leases as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is presented as follows:
Accruing Past
Nonaccrual
Nonaccrual
Due 90 Days or
Loans/Leases
Loans/Leases
Percentage of
Classes of Loans/Leases
More
with an ACL
without an ACL
Total NPLs
Total NPLs
(dollars in thousands)
C&I:
C&I - revolving
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
-
%
C&I - other
8,865
2,643
11,509
CRE - owner occupied
-
2,150
2,680
CRE - non-owner occupied
-
1,213
3,781
4,994
Construction and land development
-
2,509
-
2,509
Multi-family
-
-
8,172
8,172
Direct financing leases
-
1-4 family real estate
1,866
2,325
Consumer
-
-
$
$
15,550
$
17,203
$
32,839
%
Accruing Past
Nonaccrual
Nonaccrual
Due 90 Days or
Loans/Leases
Loans/Leases
Percentage of
Classes of Loans/Leases
More
with an ACL
without an ACL
Total NPLs
Total NPLs
(dollars in thousands)
C&I:
C&I - revolving
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
-
%
C&I - other
2,775
3,140
35.80
CRE - owner occupied
-
1,738
2,590
29.53
CRE - non-owner occupied
-
4.26
Construction and land development
-
-
1.51
Multi-family
-
-
-
-
-
Direct financing leases
-
1.54
1-4 family real estate
-
1,641
2,046
23.33
Consumer
-
-
4.03
$
$
6,787
$
1,978
$
8,770
100.00
%
The Company did not recognize any interest income on nonaccrual loans during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
Changes in the ACL loans/leases by portfolio segment for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 are presented as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2023
CRE
CRE
Construction
1-4
C&I -
C&I -
Owner
Non-Owner
and Land
Multi-
Family
Revolving
Other*
Occupied
Occupied
Development
Family
Real Estate
Consumer
Total
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning
$
4,457
$
27,753
$
9,965
$
11,749
$
14,262
$
13,186
$
4,963
$
1,371
$
87,706
Change in ACL for writedown of LHFS to fair value
-
(5)
-
-
(147)
(3,393)
-
-
(3,545)
Provision
(233)
7,849
(1,523)
(199)
2,789
2,670
(51)
11,550
Charge-offs
-
(8,952)
(222)
-
(50)
-
-
(168)
(9,392)
Recoveries
-
-
Balance, ending
$
4,224
$
27,460
$
8,223
$
11,581
$
16,856
$
12,463
$
4,917
$
1,476
$
87,200
*Included within the C&I-other column are ACL on leases with a beginning balance of $970 thousand, provision of $185 thousand, charge-offs of $252 thousand and recoveries of $89 thousand. ACL on leases was $992 thousand as of December 31, 2023.
Year Ended December 31, 2022
CRE
CRE
Construction
1-4
C&I -
C&I -
Owner
Non-Owner
and Land
Multi-
Family
Revolving
Other*
Occupied
Occupied
Development
Family
Real Estate
Consumer
Total
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning
$
3,907
$
25,982
$
8,501
$
8,549
$
16,972
$
9,339
$
4,541
$
$
78,721
Initial ACL recorded for PCD loans
2,481
1,076
1,100
5,902
Provision**
(50)
7,364
(1,023)
2,220
(2,981)
3,323
9,636
Charge-offs
-
(6,417)
-
(193)
(829)
-
(21)
(65)
(7,525)
Recoveries
-
-
-
Balance, ending
$
4,457
$
27,753
$
9,965
$
11,749
$
14,262
$
13,186
$
4,963
$
1,371
$
87,706
*Included within the C&I-other column are ACL on leases with a beginning balance of $1.5 million, provision of $269 thousand, charge-offs of $1.1 million and recoveries of $273 thousand. ACL on leases was $970 thousand as of December 31, 2022.
** Provision of the year ended December 31, 2022, included $11.0 million related to the Guaranty Bank acquisition.
Year Ended December 31, 2021
CRE
CRE
Construction
Direct
Residential
1-4
C&I -
C&I -
Owner
Non-Owner
and Land
Multi-
Financing
Real
Family
C & I
Revolving
Other*
CRE
Occupied
Development
Development
Family
Leases
Estate
Real Estate
Consumer
Total
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning
$
35,421
$
-
$
-
$
42,161
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
1,764
$
3,732
$
-
$
1,298
$
84,376
Adoption of ASU 2016-13
(35,421)
2,982
29,130
(42,161)
8,696
11,428
11,999
5,836
(1,764)
(3,732)
5,042
(137)
(8,102)
Provision
-
(1,451)
-
(198)
(1,088)
4,973
3,653
-
-
(603)
(509)
5,702
Charge-offs
-
-
(2,287)
-
-
(1,876)
-
(150)
-
-
(179)
(46)
(4,538)
Recoveries
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,283
Balance, ending
$
-
$
3,907
$
25,982
$
-
$
8,501
$
8,549
$
16,972
$
9,339
$
-
$
-
$
4,541
$
$
78,721
*Included within the C&I-other column are ACL on leases with a beginning balance of $1.8 million, adoption impact of $685 thousand, negative provision of $703 thousand, charge-offs of $458 thousand and recoveries of $258 thousand. ACL on leases was $1.5 million as of December 31, 2021.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
The composition of the ACL loans/leases by portfolio segment based on evaluation method are as follows:
As of December 31, 2023
Amortized Cost of Loans Receivable
Allowance for Credit Losses
Individually
Collectively
Individually
Collectively
Evaluated for
Evaluated for
Evaluated for
Evaluated for
Credit Losses
Credit Losses
Total
Credit Losses
Credit Losses
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C&I :
C&I - revolving
$
4,680
$
320,563
$
325,243
$
$
3,592
$
4,224
C&I - other*
20,133
1,492,809
1,512,942
3,642
23,818
27,460
24,813
1,813,372
1,838,185
4,274
27,410
31,684
CRE - owner occupied
22,709
584,656
607,365
2,426
5,797
8,223
CRE - non-owner occupied
21,886
987,006
1,008,892
10,920
11,581
Construction and land development
2,726
1,417,799
1,420,525
16,047
16,856
Multi-family
8,206
987,937
996,143
12,460
12,463
1-4 family real estate
3,128
541,843
544,971
4,628
4,917
Consumer
126,827
127,335
1,420
1,476
$
83,976
$
6,459,440
$
6,543,416
$
8,518
$
78,682
$
87,200
*Included within the C&I - other category are leases individually evaluated of $289 thousand with a related allowance for credit losses of $68 thousand and leases collectively evaluated of $30.9 million with a related allowance for credit losses of $924 thousand.
As of December 31, 2022
Amortized Cost of Loans Receivable
Allowance for Credit Losses
Individually
Collectively
Individually
Collectively
Evaluated for
Evaluated for
Evaluated for
Evaluated for
Credit Losses
Credit Losses
Total
Credit Losses
Credit Losses
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C&I :
C&I - revolving
$
3,386
$
293,483
$
296,869
$
$
3,496
$
4,457
C&I - other*
9,358
1,474,224
1,483,582
1,445
26,308
27,753
12,744
1,767,707
1,780,451
2,406
29,804
32,210
CRE - owner occupied
24,880
604,487
629,367
2,853
7,112
9,965
CRE - non-owner occupied
21,588
941,651
963,239
10,880
11,749
Construction and land development
10,394
1,181,667
1,192,061
14,249
14,262
Multi-family
1,302
962,501
963,803
12,791
13,186
1-4 family real estate
3,177
496,352
499,529
4,646
4,963
Consumer
109,680
110,421
1,296
1,371
$
74,826
$
6,064,045
$
6,138,871
$
6,928
$
80,778
$
87,706
*Included within the C&I - other category are leases individually evaluated of $135 thousand with a related allowance for credit losses of $24 thousand and leases collectively evaluated of $31.8 million with a related allowance for credit losses of $946 thousand.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
The following table presents the amortized cost basis of collateral dependent loans, by the primary collateral type, which are individually evaluated to determine expected credit losses:
As of December 31, 2023
Non
Commercial
Owner-occupied
Owner-Occupied
Owner Occupied
Assets
CRE
Real Estate
Real Estate
Securities
Equipment
Other
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C & I:
C&I - revolving
$
4,680
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
4,680
C&I - other*
-
-
-
5,191
13,249
20,133
5,551
-
-
-
5,191
13,249
24,813
CRE - owner occupied
-
22,644
-
-
-
-
22,709
CRE - non-owner occupied
-
-
21,886
-
-
-
-
21,886
Construction and land development
-
2,576
-
-
-
-
2,726
Multi-family
-
-
8,206
-
-
-
-
8,206
1-4 family real estate
-
-
2,939
-
-
-
3,128
Consumer
-
-
-
-
$
5,551
$
22,794
$
32,976
$
3,369
$
5,191
$
13,249
$
$
83,976
*Included within the C&I - other category are leases individually evaluated of $289 thousand with primary collateral of equipment.
As of December 31, 2022
Non
Commercial
Owner-occupied
Owner-Occupied
Owner Occupied
Assets
CRE
Real Estate
Real Estate
Securities
Equipment
Other
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C & I:
C&I - revolving
$
3,281
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
$
-
$
3,386
C&I - other*
1,589
-
-
7,289
9,358
4,870
-
-
7,394
12,744
CRE - owner occupied
-
24,814
-
-
-
-
24,880
CRE - non-owner occupied
-
-
21,588
-
-
-
-
21,588
Construction and land development
-
-
10,394
-
-
-
-
10,394
Multi-family
-
-
1,302
-
-
-
-
1,302
1-4 family real estate
-
-
3,144
-
-
-
3,177
Consumer
-
-
-
-
$
4,870
$
25,024
$
33,437
$
3,818
$
$
7,394
$
$
74,826
*Included within the C&I - other category are leases individually evaluated of $135 thousand with primary collateral of equipment.
For certain C&I loans, all CRE loans, certain construction and land development loans, all multifamily loans, certain 1-4 family real estate loans and certain consumer loans, the Company’s credit quality indicator consists of internally assigned risk ratings. Each such loan is assigned a risk rating upon origination. The risk rating is reviewed every 15 months, at a minimum, and on an as-needed basis depending on the specific circumstances of the loan.
For certain C&I loans (including equipment financing agreements and direct financing leases), certain construction and land development loans, certain 1-4 family real estate loans, and certain consumer loans, the Company’s credit quality indicator is performance determined by delinquency status. Delinquency status is updated daily by the Company’s loan system.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
The following tables show the credit quality indicator of loans by class of receivable and year of origination as of December 31, 2023:
Term Loans
Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year
Revolving
Loans
Internally Assigned
Amortized
Risk Rating
Prior
Cost Basis
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C&I - revolving
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
294,449
$
294,449
Special Mention (Rating 6)
-
-
-
-
-
-
26,289
26,289
Substandard (Rating 7)
-
-
-
-
-
-
4,505
4,505
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total C&I - revolving
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
325,243
$
325,243
C&I - other
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
430,764
$
301,225
$
128,057
$
68,882
$
62,149
$
132,171
$
-
$
1,123,248
Special Mention (Rating 6)
11,617
8,777
5,572
3,088
1,024
-
30,464
Substandard (Rating 7)
2,108
5,320
-
8,591
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total C&I - other
$
442,395
$
310,083
$
134,254
$
72,413
$
65,281
$
137,877
$
-
$
1,162,303
CRE - owner occupied
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
90,708
$
124,388
$
139,598
$
109,483
$
28,702
$
58,214
$
12,959
$
564,052
Special Mention (Rating 6)
5,091
8,689
5,567
1,828
-
22,352
Substandard (Rating 7)
1,955
15,978
1,312
1,128
-
20,961
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total CRE - owner occupied
$
97,754
$
125,663
$
148,311
$
131,028
$
30,480
$
61,170
$
12,959
$
607,365
CRE - non-owner occupied
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
200,214
$
276,055
$
195,013
$
119,428
$
72,136
$
78,346
$
7,406
$
948,598
Special Mention (Rating 6)
16,842
12,057
2,359
6,719
38,408
Substandard (Rating 7)
3,805
1,200
-
1,989
14,892
-
-
21,886
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total CRE - non-owner occupied
$
220,861
$
277,313
$
195,236
$
133,474
$
89,387
$
85,065
$
7,556
$
1,008,892
Construction and land development
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
456,227
$
484,821
$
271,620
$
150,836
$
1,910
$
4,138
$
30,304
$
1,399,856
Special Mention (Rating 6)
5,324
-
-
-
-
-
-
5,324
Substandard (Rating 7)
-
1,517
1,209
-
-
-
-
2,726
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Construction and land development
$
461,551
$
486,338
$
272,829
$
150,836
$
1,910
$
4,138
$
30,304
$
1,407,906
Multi-family
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
180,971
$
195,939
$
170,893
$
239,410
$
102,070
$
96,897
$
$
986,342
Special Mention (Rating 6)
1,595
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,595
Substandard (Rating 7)
-
-
8,206
-
-
-
-
8,206
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Multi-family
$
182,566
$
195,939
$
179,099
$
239,410
$
102,070
$
96,897
$
$
996,143
1-4 family real estate
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
59,474
$
46,351
$
51,838
$
24,780
$
10,809
$
5,595
$
3,249
$
202,096
Special Mention (Rating 6)
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard (Rating 7)
-
-
-
-
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total 1-4 family real estate
$
59,534
$
46,351
$
51,838
$
24,937
$
10,810
$
5,595
$
3,249
$
202,314
Consumer
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
$
$
$
$
-
$
$
8,139
$
10,040
Special Mention (Rating 6)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard (Rating 7)
-
-
-
-
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Consumer
$
$
$
$
$
-
$
$
8,139
$
10,288
Total
$
1,464,835
$
1,442,210
$
981,898
$
752,533
$
299,938
$
391,428
$
387,612
$
5,720,454
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
Term Loans
Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year
Revolving
Loans
Amortized
Delinquency Status *
Prior
Cost Basis
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C&I - other
Performing
$
149,216
$
103,804
$
40,003
$
12,590
$
2,539
$
$
-
$
308,284
Nonperforming
1,533
6,138
3,049
-
11,191
Total C&I - other
$
150,749
$
109,942
$
43,052
$
12,963
$
2,631
$
$
-
$
319,475
Construction and land development
Performing
$
11,548
$
$
$
$
$
-
$
-
$
12,619
Nonperforming
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Construction and land development
$
11,548
$
$
$
$
$
-
$
-
$
12,619
Direct financing leases
Performing
$
12,217
$
11,170
$
3,005
$
2,631
$
1,561
$
$
-
$
30,875
Nonperforming
-
-
-
Total Direct financing leases
$
12,217
$
11,220
$
3,048
$
2,807
$
1,581
$
$
-
$
31,164
1-4 family real estate
Performing
$
74,364
$
57,110
$
79,140
$
64,943
$
15,303
$
49,394
$
$
340,333
Nonperforming
-
2,324
Total 1-4 family real estate
$
74,561
$
57,325
$
79,759
$
65,343
$
15,623
$
49,967
$
$
342,657
Consumer
Performing
$
16,575
$
9,002
$
2,243
$
2,589
$
$
1,243
$
84,531
$
116,805
Nonperforming
-
-
Total Consumer
$
16,707
$
9,002
$
2,255
$
2,601
$
$
1,289
$
84,571
$
117,047
Total
$
265,782
$
188,043
$
128,375
$
83,969
$
20,458
$
51,685
$
84,650
$
822,962
*Performing = loans/leases accruing and less than 90 days past due. Nonperforming = loans/leases on nonaccrual and accruing loans/leases that are greater than or equal to 90 days past due.
The following table shows the gross charge-offs of loans and leases by class of receivable and year of origination for the year ended December 31, 2023:
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Gross Charge-off by Origination Year
Classes of Loans/Leases
Prior
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C&I:
C&I - revolving
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
C&I - other
5,465
1,753
1,083
8,700
CRE - owner occupied
-
-
-
-
-
CRE - non-owner occupied
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Construction and land development
-
-
-
-
-
Multi-family
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Direct financing leases
-
1-4 family real estate
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Consumer
$
$
5,701
$
2,102
$
1,125
$
$
$
9,392
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
The following tables show the credit quality indicator of loans by class of receivable and year of origination as of December 31, 2022:
Term Loans
Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year
Revolving
Loans
Internally Assigned
Amortized
Risk Rating
Prior
Cost Basis
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C&I - revolving
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
275,888
$
275,888
Special Mention (Rating 6)
-
-
-
-
-
-
17,595
17,595
Substandard (Rating 7)
-
-
-
-
-
-
3,386
3,386
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total C&I - revolving
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
296,869
$
296,869
C&I - other
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
496,445
$
279,412
$
127,803
$
87,054
$
59,675
$
105,184
$
-
$
1,155,573
Special Mention (Rating 6)
9,542
-
-
12,153
Substandard (Rating 7)
4,535
-
5,924
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total C&I - other
$
506,174
$
280,216
$
129,365
$
92,312
$
59,985
$
105,598
$
-
$
1,173,650
CRE - owner occupied
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
146,211
$
182,440
$
142,596
$
33,571
$
27,088
$
45,993
$
13,460
$
591,359
Special Mention (Rating 6)
6,190
-
6,379
-
1,346
14,668
Substandard (Rating 7)
3,750
16,336
1,396
1,197
-
23,340
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total CRE - owner occupied
$
156,151
$
182,611
$
165,311
$
35,451
$
28,285
$
47,829
$
13,729
$
629,367
CRE - non-owner occupied
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
310,163
$
221,953
$
173,478
$
89,337
$
56,898
$
40,923
$
7,510
$
900,262
Special Mention (Rating 6)
2,824
18,920
-
12,917
6,198
-
41,741
Substandard (Rating 7)
5,651
-
15,217
-
-
21,236
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total CRE - non-owner occupied
$
318,638
$
222,835
$
192,555
$
104,554
$
69,815
$
47,121
$
7,721
$
963,239
Construction and land development
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
479,016
$
330,434
$
240,778
$
31,607
$
30,300
$
-
$
29,647
$
1,141,782
Special Mention (Rating 6)
1,465
9,200
-
-
-
-
-
10,665
Substandard (Rating 7)
10,262
-
-
-
-
-
10,394
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Construction and land development
$
480,613
$
349,896
$
240,778
$
31,607
$
30,300
$
-
$
29,647
$
1,162,841
Multi-family
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
237,839
$
254,056
$
224,920
$
134,378
$
99,695
$
7,875
$
2,227
$
960,990
Special Mention (Rating 6)
-
-
1,467
-
-
-
1,511
Substandard (Rating 7)
-
-
1,302
-
-
-
-
1,302
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Multi-family
$
237,839
$
254,100
$
226,222
$
135,845
$
99,695
$
7,875
$
2,227
$
963,803
1-4 family real estate
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
61,953
$
57,731
$
33,737
$
12,687
$
5,813
$
6,002
$
5,855
$
183,778
Special Mention (Rating 6)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard (Rating 7)
-
-
-
-
-
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total 1-4 family real estate
$
61,981
$
57,731
$
33,737
$
12,692
$
5,813
$
6,002
$
5,855
$
183,811
Consumer
Pass (Ratings 1 through 5)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
10,226
$
13,028
Special Mention (Rating 6)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Substandard (Rating 7)
-
-
-
-
Doubtful (Rating 8)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Consumer
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
10,226
$
13,434
Total
$
1,762,189
$
1,348,190
$
988,473
$
412,583
$
294,259
$
215,046
$
366,274
$
5,387,014
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
Term Loans
Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year
Revolving
Loans
Amortized
Delinquency Status *
Prior
Cost Basis
Total
(dollars in thousands)
C&I - other
Performing
$
170,180
$
69,694
$
25,540
$
8,066
$
1,804
$
$
-
$
275,363
Nonperforming
1,110
1,320
-
-
-
2,680
Total C&I - other
$
171,290
$
71,014
$
25,695
$
8,161
$
1,804
$
$
-
$
278,043
Direct financing leases
Performing
$
14,578
$
5,172
$
5,700
$
4,398
$
1,536
$
$
-
$
31,754
Nonperforming
-
-
-
Total Direct financing leases
$
14,578
$
5,204
$
5,788
$
4,405
$
1,544
$
$
-
$
31,889
Construction and land development
Performing
$
28,785
$
$
$
$
$
-
$
-
$
29,220
Nonperforming
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total Construction and land development
$
28,785
$
$
$
$
$
-
$
-
$
29,220
1-4 family real estate
Performing
$
69,094
$
92,762
$
75,153
$
17,089
$
11,381
$
48,136
$
$
313,705
Nonperforming
-
2,013
Total 1-4 family real estate
$
69,361
$
93,286
$
75,640
$
17,368
$
11,389
$
48,584
$
$
315,718
Consumer
Performing
$
14,685
$
3,844
$
3,717
$
1,123
$
1,140
$
1,325
$
70,974
$
96,808
Nonperforming
-
-
-
Total Consumer
$
14,692
$
3,844
$
3,717
$
1,123
$
1,143
$
1,384
$
71,084
$
96,987
Total
$
298,706
$
173,708
$
110,850
$
31,060
$
15,942
$
50,417
$
71,174
$
751,857
All loan and lease modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during 2023 as well as TDR balances and activity during 2022 and 2021 were immaterial.
Changes in the ACL for OBS exposures for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 is presented as follows:
Year Ended
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Balance, beginning
$
5,552
$
6,886
Provisions (credited) to expense
3,977
(1,334)
Balance, ending
$
9,529
$
5,552
Loans are made in the normal course of business to directors, executive officers, and their related interests. All such loans, in the opinion of management, were made in the ordinary course of business, on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with persons not related to the lenders and did not involve more than the normal risk of collectability or present other unfavorable
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 4. Loans/Leases Receivable (continued)
features. An analysis of the changes in the aggregate committed amount of loans to insiders greater than or equal to $60,000 during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, is as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning
$
113,200
$
100,898
$
100,361
Net increase (decrease) due to change in related parties
2,200
3,496
(18,832)
Advances
23,977
51,683
42,817
Repayments
(13,414)
(42,877)
(23,448)
Balance, ending
$
125,963
$
113,200
$
100,898
The Company’s loan portfolio includes a geographic concentration in the Midwest. Additionally, the loan portfolio includes a concentration of loans in certain industries as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 as follows:
Percentage of
Percentage of
Total
Total
Industry Name
Balance
Loans/Leases
Balance
Loans/Leases
(dollars in thousands)
Lessors of Residential Buildings*
$
2,328,875
%
$
2,168,431
%
Lessors of Non-Residential Buildings
673,719
%
558,719
%
* Includes loans on LIHTC projects
Note 5. Securitizations and Variable Interest Entities
Freddie Mac M Series Securitization
On October 12, 2023, the Company entered into an arrangement with Freddie Mac, by which a $128.6 million portfolio of nontaxable LIHTC loans were securitized through Freddie Mac and sold to investors. The Company retained beneficial interests totaling $16.2 million, which are classified as trading securities on the consolidated balance sheets. The transfer of these loans was accounted for as a sale for financial reporting purposes, in accordance with ASC 860, and a $2.4 million net loss on sale was recognized, which included the impact of the fair value of retained beneficial interests and transaction costs.
Two classes of M-Series certificates were issued. Freddie Mac guarantees timely payment of interest and scheduled principal on M-Series Class A Certificates, which were sold to third-party investors through a Freddie Mac Securitization SPE. M-Series Class B Certificates are subordinated to M-Series Class A Certificates and were issued to the Company, as discussed above, which in turn pledged the Class B Certificates to provide 12% first loss support to Freddie Mac on the Class A Certificates, or approximately $15.6 million. In addition, the Company pledged $7.5 million of related taxable loans providing an additional $3.8 million of first loss support on the Class A Certificates. The Company’s ongoing involvement in this transaction is limited to customary obligations of loan sales, including any indemnification for material breach in the Company’s representations.
As part of the securitization transaction, the Company released all mortgage servicing obligations and rights to a third party, which include obligations to collect and remit payments of principal and interest, manage payments of taxes and insurance, and otherwise administer the underlying loans.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 5. Securitizations and Variable Interest Entities (continued)
Freddie Mac Q Series Securitization
On November 16, 2023, the Company entered into an arrangement through a third-party trust and Freddie Mac, by which a $133.3 million portfolio of taxable LIHTC loans were sold to the trust and ultimately securitized through Freddie Mac and sold to investors. The Company retained beneficial interests totaling $6.2 million, which are classified as trading securities on the consolidated balance sheets. The transfer of these loans was accounted for as a sale for financial reporting purposes, in accordance with ASC 860, and a $3.1 million net gain on sale was recognized, which included the impact of the fair value of retained beneficial interests, guarantee liabilities and transaction costs.
Two classes of Q-Series certificates were issued. Q-Series Class A Certificates, totaling $133.3 million, which include both principal and interest, were sold by Freddie Mac to third-party investors. Q-Series Class X Certificates totaling $6.2 million, consisted of interest-only certificates for the interest in excess of that earned by the Class A Certificates. The consideration received by the Company for the loans sold consisted of cash and the Company purchased the Class X Certificates as a retained beneficial interest. Freddie Mac guarantees timely payment of interest and scheduled principal on both Class A and Class X certificates.
The Company’s ongoing involvement in this transaction is limited to customary obligations of loan sales, including any material breach in the Company’s representations. In connection with the securitization, the Company also entered into a reimbursement agreement for a first loss position in the underlying loan portfolio, not to exceed 12% of the unpaid principal amount of the loans comprising the securitization pool at settlement or approximately $16.2 million. The Company is also required to hold collateral against the reimbursement agreement. Accordingly, the Company pledged an FHLB letter of credit as collateral.
As part of the securitization transaction, the Company released all mortgage servicing obligations and rights to a third party, which include obligations to collect and remit payments of principal and interest, manage payments of taxes and insurance, and otherwise administer the underlying loans.
Variable Interest Entities (VIEs)
A VIE is a corporation, partnership, limited liability company, or any other legal structure used to conduct activities or hold assets generally that either:
• Does not have equity investors with voting rights that can directly or indirectly make decisions about the entity’s activities through those voting rights or similar rights; or
• Has equity investors that do not provide sufficient equity for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support.
In order to execute the Freddie Mac M series securitization transaction, CRBT created a new bankruptcy-remote special purpose entity (“Sponsor SPE”), CRBT TEBS Sponsor I LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of CRBT and through which the assets were sold to the Freddie Mac Securitization SPE. The Company has a variable interest in the VIE.
The Company also has deemed a VIE, a real estate mortgage investment conduit trust that was established in connection with the Freddie Mac Q series LIHTC loan sale and securitization. The Company has a variable interest in the VIE.
The VIE entities for both the M and Q series securitizations were assessed for potential consolidation under the VIE model that requires primary beneficiaries to consolidate the entity’s results. A primary beneficiary is defined as the
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 5. Securitizations and Variable Interest Entities (continued)
party that has both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity, and an interest that could be significant to the entity. To determine if an interest could be significant to the entity, both qualitative and quantitative factors regarding the nature, size and form of involvement with the entity are evaluated.
At December 31, 2023, the Company determined it was not the primary beneficiary of these VIEs primarily because the Company did not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIEs. Evaluation and assessment of VIEs for consolidation is performed on an ongoing basis by management. Any changes in facts and
circumstances occurring since the previous primary beneficiary determination will be considered as part of this ongoing assessment.
The Company’s total assets related to the VIEs as of December 31, 2023 were $22.4 million and there were no liabilities recorded. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss associated with these VIEs consists of the capital invested plus any unfunded equity commitments that are binding. As of December 31, 2023, the maximum exposure to loss was $31.8 million.
Note 6. Premises and Equipment
The following summarizes the components of premises and equipment as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
(dollars in thousands)
Land
$
17,807
$
17,804
Buildings (useful lives 15 to 39 years)
110,271
104,780
Construction in process - buildings
7,773
3,997
Furniture and equipment (useful lives 3 to 15 years)
52,350
54,305
Premises and equipment
188,201
180,886
Less accumulated depreciation
64,924
62,938
Premises and equipment, net
$
123,277
$
117,948
Construction in process - buildings consists of renovation costs on existing branch facilities as well as construction costs on new branch facilities. The Company entered into a construction contract in 2023 for the construction of a new CRBT facility in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The Company will pay the contractor a contract price of approximately $17.0 million, subject to additions and deductions as provided in the contract documents. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has paid $2.8 million of the contract price, resulting in a remaining future commitment of $14.2 million. Construction is anticipated to be completed in 2024.
As a lessee, the Company has entered into operating leases for certain branch locations. Total lease expenses were $469 thousand and $412 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company’s ROU assets (included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets) and operating lease liabilities (included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets) were both $3.5 million and $3.0 million, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company increased its ROU
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
assets by $1.1 million with a new operating lease for m2’s office relocation. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company acquired $8.4 million of ROU assets as part of the acquisition of GFED.
At December 31, 2023, the contractual maturities of operating lease liabilities were as follows:
Amount
Year ending December 31:
(dollars in thousands)
Thereafter
2,392
$
4,097
As a lessor, the Company leases certain types of commercial vehicles and industrial equipment to its customers. The Company recognized lease-related revenue, primarily interest income from direct financing leases, of $2.0 million and $2.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company’s net investment in direct financing leases was $30.2 million and $31.1 million, respectively.
Note 6. Premises and Equipment (continued)
As of December 31, 2023, the contractual maturities of sales-type and direct financing lease receivables were as follows:
Amount
Year ending December 31:
(dollars in thousands)
1,762
7,519
4,360
6,141
14,721
Thereafter
Total lease payments receivable
$
34,966
Unguaranteed residual values
Unearned lease/residual income
(3,967)
$
31,164
Plus deferred origination costs, net of fees
$
31,239
Less allowance
(992)
Total lease payments receivable
$
30,247
The
Note 7. Goodwill and Intangibles
The following table presents the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
(dollars in thousands)
Balance at the beginning of period
$
137,607
$
74,066
$
74,066
Acquisition of GFED
-
63,541
-
Acquisition of GFED - measurement period adjustment
1,420
-
-
Balance at the end of period
$
139,027
$
137,607
$
74,066
The measurement period adjustment of $1.4 million during 2023 related to the changes to acquired deferred income taxes of GFED.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
The following table presents goodwill by reportable segment:
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
(dollars in thousands)
Commercial banking:
QCBT
$
3,223
$
3,223
$
3,223
CRBT
14,980
14,980
14,980
CSB
9,888
9,888
9,888
GB
110,936
109,516
45,975
$
139,027
$
137,607
$
74,066
At November 30, 2023 and 2022, the Company’s management performed an annual internal assessment of goodwill at the reporting unit level and determined no impairment existed.
Note 7. Goodwill and Intangibles (continued)
The following table presents the changes in core deposit intangibles (included in Intangibles on the consolidated balance sheets) during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
(dollars in thousands)
Balance at the beginning of the period
$
16,759
$
9,349
$
11,381
Acquisition of GFED
-
10,264
-
Amortization expense
(2,938)
(2,854)
(2,032)
Balance at the end of the period
$
13,821
$
16,759
$
9,349
Gross carrying amount
$
29,519
$
29,519
$
19,255
Accumulated amortization
(15,698)
(12,760)
(9,906)
Net book value
$
13,821
$
16,759
$
9,349
The following table presents the core deposit intangibles by reportable segment:
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
(dollars in thousands)
Commercial Banking:
CRBT
$
$
1,225
$
1,702
CSB
1,430
2,027
2,653
GB
11,508
13,507
4,994
$
13,821
$
16,759
$
9,349
The following table presents the estimated amortization of the core deposit intangibles:
Amount
Years ending December 31,
(dollars in thousands)
$
2,761
2,645
2,360
1,874
1,316
Thereafter
2,865
$
13,821
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 8. Derivatives and Hedging Activities
Derivatives are summarized as follows as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
Assets:
Hedged Derivatives
Cash Flow Hedges
Interest rate caps
$
2,847
$
8,327
Interest rate swaps
1,689
Unhedged Derivatives
Interest rate caps
2,213
Interest rate swaps
181,854
166,614
$
187,341
$
177,631
Liabilities:
Hedged Derivatives
Cash Flow Hedges
Interest rate swaps
(30,407)
(33,824)
Interest rate collars
(166)
(263)
Fair Value Hedges
Interest rate swaps
(3,308)
-
Unhedged Derivatives
Interest rate swaps
(181,854)
(166,614)
$
(215,735)
$
(200,701)
The Company uses interest rate swap, cap and collar instruments to manage interest rate risk related to the variability of interest payments due to changes in interest rates.
The Company has entered into interest rate caps to hedge against the risk of rising interest rates on liabilities. The liabilities consist of $300.0 million of deposits and the benchmark rates hedged vary. The interest rate caps are designated as cash flow hedges in accordance with ASC 815. An initial premium of $3.5 million was paid upfront for the caps executed. The details of the interest rate caps are as follows:
Balance Sheet
Fair Value as of
Hedged Item
Effective Date
Maturity Date
Location
Notional Amount
Strike Rate
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
Deposits
1/1/2020
1/1/2023
Derivatives - Assets
$
25,000
1.75
%
$
-
$
(50)
Deposits
1/1/2020
1/1/2024
Derivatives - Assets
25,000
1.75
%
(79)
Deposits
1/1/2020
1/1/2024
Derivatives - Assets
50,000
1.57
%
-
1,566
Deposits
1/1/2020
1/1/2024
Derivatives - Assets
25,000
1.80
%
-
Deposits
1/1/2020
1/1/2025
Derivatives - Assets
25,000
1.75
%
1,264
Deposits
1/1/2020
1/1/2025
Derivatives - Assets
50,000
1.57
%
1,503
2,700
Deposits
1/1/2020
1/1/2025
Derivatives - Assets
25,000
1.80
%
1,350
$
225,000
$
2,847
$
8,327
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 8. Derivatives and Hedging Activities (continued)
The Company has entered into interest rate swaps to hedge against the risk of rising rates on its variable rate trust preferred securities. All of the interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges in accordance with ASC 815. The details of the interest rate swaps are as follows:
Balance Sheet
Fair Value as of
Hedged Item
Effective Date
Maturity Date
Location
Notional Amount
Receive Rate
Pay Rate
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
QCR Holdings Statutory Trust II
9/30/2018
9/30/2028
Derivatives - Assets
$
10,000
8.44
%
5.85
%
$
$
QCR Holdings Statutory Trust III
9/30/2018
9/30/2028
Derivatives - Assets
8,000
8.44
%
5.85
%
QCR Holdings Statutory Trust V
7/7/2018
7/7/2028
Derivatives - Assets
10,000
7.21
%
4.54
%
Community National Statutory Trust II
9/20/2018
9/20/2028
Derivatives - Assets
3,000
7.80
%
5.17
%
Community National Statutory Trust III
9/15/2018
9/15/2028
Derivatives - Assets
3,500
7.40
%
4.75
%
Guaranty Bankshares Statutory Trust I
9/15/2018
9/15/2028
Derivatives - Assets
4,500
7.40
%
4.75
%
Guaranty Statutory Trust II*
5/23/2019
2/23/2026
Derivatives - Assets
10,310
7.09
%
4.09
%
$
49,310
$
1,689
$
2,284
* Acquired on 4/1/2022 with GFED acquisition.
The Company has entered into interest rate swaps to hedge against the risk of declining interest rates on floating rate loans. The interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges in accordance with ASC 815. The details of the interest rate swaps are as follows:
Balance Sheet
Fair Value as of
Hedged Item
Effective Date
Maturity Date
Location
Notional Amount
Receive Rate
Pay Rate
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
Loans
7/1/2021
7/1/2031
Derivatives - Liabilities
$
35,000
1.40
%
5.45
%
$
(5,004)
$
(5,646)
Loans
7/1/2021
7/1/2031
Derivatives - Liabilities
50,000
1.40
%
5.45
%
(7,149)
(8,066)
Loans
7/1/2021
7/1/2031
Derivatives - Liabilities
40,000
1.40
%
5.45
%
(5,730)
(6,464)
Loans
10/1/2022
7/1/2031
Derivatives - Liabilities
25,000
1.30
%
5.35
%
(3,696)
(4,018)
Loans
4/1/2022
4/1/2027
Derivatives - Liabilities
15,000
1.91
%
5.45
%
(868)
(1,144)
Loans
4/1/2022
4/1/2027
Derivatives - Liabilities
50,000
1.91
%
5.45
%
(2,892)
(3,812)
Loans
4/1/2022
4/1/2027
Derivatives - Liabilities
35,000
1.91
%
5.45
%
(2,024)
(2,669)
Loans
4/1/2022
4/1/2027
Derivatives - Liabilities
50,000
1.91
%
5.45
%
(3,044)
(3,812)
$
300,000
$
(30,407)
$
(35,631)
The Company uses interest rate collars in an effort to manage future interest rate exposure on variable rate loans. The collar hedging strategy stabilizes interest rate fluctuations by setting both a floor and a cap. The collar is designated as a cash flow hedge in accordance with ASC 815. The details of the interest rate collars are as follows:
Fair Value as of
Hedged Item
Effective Date
Maturity Date
Location
Notional Amount
Cap Strike Rate
Floor Strike Rate
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Loans
10/1/2022
10/1/2026
Derivatives - Liabilities
$
50,000
4.40
%
2.44
%
$
(166)
$
(263)
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 8. Derivatives and Hedging Activities (continued)
The Company has entered into interest rate swaps to hedge against the risk of rising rates on loans. The interest rate swaps are designated as fair value hedges in accordance with ASC 815. The details of the interest rate swaps are as follows:
Balance Sheet
Fair Value as of
Hedged Item
Effective Date
Maturity Date
Location
Notional Amount
Receive Rate
Pay Rate
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
Loans
7/12/2023
2/1/2026
Derivatives - Assets
$
25,000
5.35
%
4.38
%
$
(195)
$
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
8/1/2026
Derivatives - Assets
30,000
5.35
%
4.21
%
(293)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
2/1/2027
Derivatives - Assets
32,500
5.35
%
4.08
%
(364)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
8/1/2027
Derivatives - Assets
32,500
5.35
%
3.98
%
(397)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
2/1/2028
Derivatives - Assets
30,000
5.35
%
3.90
%
(388)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
2/1/2026
Derivatives - Assets
15,000
5.35
%
4.38
%
(117)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
8/1/2026
Derivatives - Assets
15,000
5.35
%
4.21
%
(146)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
2/1/2027
Derivatives - Assets
15,000
5.35
%
4.08
%
(168)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
8/1/2027
Derivatives - Assets
15,000
5.35
%
3.98
%
(183)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
2/1/2028
Derivatives - Assets
15,000
5.35
%
3.90
%
(194)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
8/1/2025
Derivatives - Assets
15,000
5.35
%
4.60
%
(69)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
2/1/2026
Derivatives - Assets
20,000
5.35
%
4.38
%
(140)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
8/1/2026
Derivatives - Assets
20,000
5.35
%
4.21
%
(176)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
2/1/2027
Derivatives - Assets
20,000
5.35
%
4.08
%
(202)
N/A
Loans
7/12/2023
8/1/2027
Derivatives - Assets
25,000
5.35
%
3.98
%
(276)
N/A
$
325,000
$
(3,308)
$
N/A
Changes in the fair values of derivative financial instruments accounted for as cash flow hedges, to the extent they are included in the assessment of effectiveness, are recorded as a component of AOCI. The following is a summary of how AOCI was impacted during the reporting periods:
Year Ended
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
Unrealized loss at beginning of period, net of tax
$
(20,221)
$
(4,373)
Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to interest expense related to caplet amortization
(872)
(1,001)
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income, net of tax
1,114
(14,847)
Unrealized loss at end of period, net of tax
$
(19,979)
$
(20,221)
Changes in fair values of derivative financial instruments accounted for as fair value hedges, to the extent that they are included in the assessment of effectiveness, are recorded as a component of interest income/expense.
For derivative instruments that are designated as unhedged, the change in fair value of the derivative instrument is recognized into current earnings. The details of the unhedged interest rate caps are as follows:
Balance Sheet
Fair Value as of
Effective Date
Maturity Date
Location
Notional Amount
Strike Rate
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
1/1/2020
1/3/2023
Derivatives - Assets
$
25,000
1.90
%
$
-
$
2/1/2020
2/1/2024
Derivatives - Assets
25,000
1.90
%
3/1/2020
3/3/2025
Derivatives - Assets
25,000
1.90
%
1,388
$
75,000
$
$
2,213
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 8. Derivatives and Hedging Activities (continued)
The Company has also entered into interest rate swap contracts that are not designated as hedging instruments. These derivative contracts relate to transactions in which the Company enters into an interest rate swap with a customer while at the same time entering into an equal and offsetting interest rate swap with a third-party financial institution. Additionally, the Company receives an upfront, non-refundable fee from the third-party financial institution, dependent upon the pricing that is recognized upon receipt from the third-party financial institution. Because the Company acts as an intermediary for the customer, changes in the fair value of the underlying derivative contracts, for the most part, offset each other and do not significantly impact the Company’s results of operations.
Interest rate swaps that are not designated as hedging instruments are summarized as follows:
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Notional Amount
Estimated Fair Value
Notional Amount
Estimated Fair Value
(dollars in thousands)
Non-Hedging Interest Rate Derivatives Assets:
Interest rate swap contracts
$
3,308,024
$
181,854
$
2,528,949
$
166,614
Non-Hedging Interest Rate Derivatives Liabilities:
Interest rate swap contracts
$
3,308,024
$
181,854
$
2,528,949
$
166,614
The effect of cash flow hedging and fair value accounting on the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Interest and
Interest
Interest and
Interest
Interest and
Interest
Dividend Income
Expense
Dividend Income
Expense
Dividend Income
Expense
(dollars in thousands)
Income and expense line items presented in the consolidated statements of income
$
413,410
$
192,404
$
292,571
$
61,451
$
200,155
$
21,922
The effects of cash flow hedging:
Gain (loss) on interest rate caps on deposits
-
(7,639)
-
(1,422)
-
Gain (loss) on interest rate swaps on junior subordinated debentures
-
(1,167)
-
-
1,116
Gain (loss) on interest rate swaps and collars on loans
(10,763)
-
(829)
-
1,006
-
The effects of fair value hedging:
Gain on interest rate swaps on loans
1,746
-
-
-
-
-
The Company’s hedged interest rate swaps and non-hedged interest rate swaps are collateralized with cash and investment securities with carrying values as follows:
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
Cash
$
51,680
$
1,272
U.S treasuries and govt. sponsored agency securities
6,413
-
Municipal securities
68,651
8,227
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
23,358
29,257
$
150,102
$
38,756
The Company may be exposed to credit risk in the event of non-performance by the counterparties to its interest rate derivative agreements. The Company assesses the credit risk of its financial institution counterparties by monitoring publicly available credit rating and financial information. Additionally, the Company manages financial institution counterparty credit risk by entering into interest rate derivatives only with primary and highly rated counterparties, the use of ISDA master agreements, central clearing mechanisms and counterparty limits. The agreements contain bilateral collateral arrangements with the amount of collateral to be posted generally governed by the settlement value of outstanding swaps. The Company manages the risk of default by its borrower counterparties through its normal loan underwriting and credit monitoring policies and procedures. The Company underwrites the combination of the base loan amount and potential swap exposure and focuses on high quality borrowers with strong collateral values.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 8. Derivatives and Hedging Activities (continued)
The majority of the Company’s back-to-back swapped loan portfolio consists of loans on projects, with loan-to-values including the potential swap exposure well below 65%. The Company does not currently anticipate any losses from failure of interest rate derivative counterparties to honor their obligations.
Note 9. Deposits
The aggregate amount of certificates of deposit, each with a minimum denomination of $250,000, was $511.4 million and $371.7 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
As of December 31, 2023, the scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit were as follows:
Amount
(dollars in thousands)
Year ending December 31:
$
979,282
22,023
3,921
2,291
1,553
Thereafter
$
1,009,682
The Company has public entity interest-bearing demand deposits and certificates of deposit that are collateralized by investment securities with carrying values as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
U.S. govt. sponsored agency securities
$
1,805
$
2,081
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
2,114
1,796
$
3,919
$
3,877
The Company had a $175.0 million PUD LOC with the FHLB of Des Moines for the purpose of providing additional collateral on public deposits as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2022, the Company had a $188.8 million PUD LOC with the FHLB of Des Moines. There were no amounts outstanding under these letters of credit as of December 31, 2023 or 2022.
Brokered deposits as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 were $285.0 million and $101.1 million, respectively.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 10. Short-Term Borrowings
Short-term borrowings as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are summarized as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
Federal funds purchased
$
1,500
$
129,630
Information concerning federal funds purchased is summarized as follows for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:
(dollars in thousands)
Average daily balance
$
2,781
$
8,637
Average daily interest rate
5.09
%
1.76
%
Maximum month-end balance
$
2,230
$
129,630
Weighted average rate as of December 31
5.20
%
4.70
%
Note 11. FHLB Advances
The subsidiary banks are members of the FHLB. Maturity and interest rate information on advances from the FHLB as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is as follows:
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
Weighted
Weighted
Average
Average
Interest Rate
Interest Rate
Amount Due
at Year-End
Amount Due
at Year-End
(dollars in thousands)
Maturity:
Year ending December 31:
$
-
-
%
$
415,000
4.58
%
300,000
5.64
-
-
-
-
-
-
45,000
5.01
-
-
45,000
4.82
-
-
45,000
4.64
-
-
Total FHLB advances
$
435,000
5.39
%
$
415,000
4.58
%
Advances are collateralized by loans of $2.1 billion and $1.7 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, in aggregate. The FHLB applies loan-to-value discounts to the loans pledged as collateral based on the loan type. There were no securities pledged as collateral on advances as of December 31, 2023. Advances were collateralized by securities of $290 thousand as of December 31, 2022 in aggregate. The Company continues to pledge loans under blanket liens to provide off balance sheet liquidity.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the subsidiary banks held $24.5 million and $25.6 million, respectively, of FHLB stock, which is included in restricted investment securities on the consolidated balance sheets.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 12. Other Borrowings and Unused Lines of Credit
In the second quarter of 2023, the Company renewed its revolving line of credit. At renewal, the available line amount remained unchanged at $50.0 million for which there was no outstanding balance as of December 31, 2023 or 2022. Interest on the revolving line of credit is calculated at the greater of: (a) the effective Prime Rate less 0.50% or (b) 3.00% per annum. The collateral on the revolving line of credit is 100% of the outstanding capital stock of the Company’s bank subsidiaries.
Unused lines of credit of the subsidiary banks as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are summarized as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
Secured
$
248,494
$
30,990
Unsecured
450,800
470,800
$
699,294
$
501,790
Included in the Secured category above, the Company pledges select C&I and CRE loans to the FRB for borrowing as part of the Borrower-In-Custody program.
The Company has been approved for the Bank Term Funding Program. As of December 31, 2023, there were no amounts outstanding and investment securities with a carrying value of $10.1 million are pledged as collateral for the program. The Bank Term Funding Program ends March 11, 2024.
Note 13. Subordinated Notes
Subordinated notes as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are summarized as follows:
Amount Outstanding
Interest Rate
Amount Outstanding
Interest Rate
as of December 31, 2023
as of December 31, 2023
as of December 31, 2022
as of December 31, 2022
Maturity Date
(dollars in thousands)
Subordinated debenture dated 2/1/19
$
65,000
5.375
%
$
65,000
5.375
%
2/15/2029
Subordinated debenture dated 9/14/20
50,000
5.125
%
50,000
5.125
%
9/15/2030
Subordinated debenture dated 7/29/20*
20,000
5.250
%
20,000
5.250
%
9/30/2030
Subordinated debenture dated 8/18/22
45,000
5.500
%
45,000
5.500
%
9/1/2032
Subordinated debenture dated 8/18/22
55,000
5.950
%
55,000
5.950
%
9/1/2037
Debt issuance costs
(1,936)
(2,338)
Total Subordinated Debentures
$
233,064
$
232,662
*Assumed in acquisition of GFED
On February 19, 2019, the Company completed an underwritten public offering of $65.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating subordinated notes that mature on February 15, 2029. Net proceeds, after deducting the underwriting discount and estimated expenses, were $63.4 million. The subordinated notes, which qualify as Tier 2 capital for the Company, bear interest at a fixed rate of 5.375% per year from and after February 12, 2019 to, but excluding, February 15, 2024 or earlier redemption date. From and after February 15, 2024 to, but excluding, the maturity date or earlier redemption date, the interest will reset quarterly to the then current three-month LIBOR plus 282 basis points. Interest on the subordinated notes is payable semi-annually, commencing on August 15, 2019 during the five year fixed term and thereafter quarterly, commencing on February 15, 2024. The subordinated notes are redeemable by the Company at its option, in whole or in part, on any interest payment date on or after February 15, 2024. The subordinated notes are redeemable by the Company in whole but not in part, under certain limited circumstances set forth in the subordinated notes. Any redemption by the Company would be at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the subordinated notes being redeemed, together with any accrued and unpaid interest on the subordinated notes being redeemed to, but excluding, the date of redemption. The subordinated
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 13. Subordinated Notes (continued)
notes are subordinate in the right of payment to the Company’s senior indebtedness and the indebtedness and other liabilities of the subsidiary banks.
On September 14, 2020, the Company completed a private offering of $50.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating subordinated notes that mature on September 15, 2030. The subordinated notes, which qualify as Tier 2 capital for the Company, bear interest at a fixed rate of 5.125% per year, from and including September 14, 2020 to, but excluding, September 15, 2025 or earlier redemption date. From and including September 15, 2025 to, but excluding, the maturity date or earlier redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly at a variable rate, which is expected to be the then current three-month term SOFR plus 500 basis points. Interest on the subordinated notes is payable quarterly, commencing on December 15, 2020. The subordinated notes are redeemable by the Company at its option, in whole or in part, on any interest payment date on or after September 15, 2025. The subordinated notes are redeemable by the Company in whole but not in part, under certain limited circumstances set forth in the subordinated notes. Any redemption by the Company would be at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the subordinated notes being redeemed, together with any accrued and unpaid interest on the subordinated notes being redeemed to, but excluding, the date of redemption. The subordinated notes are subordinate in the right of payment to the Company’s senior indebtedness and the indebtedness and other liabilities of the subsidiary banks.
On April 1, 2022, the Company acquired through the GFED acquisition $20.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating subordinated notes that mature on September 30, 2030. The subordinated notes, which qualify as Tier 2 capital for the Company, will bear interest at a fixed rate of 5.25% per year, from and including July 29, 2020 to, but excluding September 30, 2025 or earlier redemption. From and including September 30, 2025 to, but excluding the maturity date or earlier redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly at a variable rate, which is expected to be the then three-month Term SOFR, plus 519 basis points. Interest on the subordinated notes is payable semi-annually, commencing on September 30, 2020 through September 30, 2025. The subordinated notes may be redeemed at the Company’s option, in whole or in part, on any interest payment date on or after September 30, 2025, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the date of redemption. The subordinated notes are subordinate in the right of payment to the Company’s senior indebtedness and the indebtedness and other liabilities of the subsidiary banks.
On August 18, 2022, the Company also completed a private offering of $45.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating subordinated notes that mature on September 1, 2032, of which $43.25 million were exchanged for subordinated notes registered under the Securities Act of 1933. The subordinated notes, which qualify as Tier 2 capital for the Company, bear interest at a fixed rate of 5.50% per year, from and including September 1, 2022 to, but excluding September 1, 2027 or earlier redemption. From and including September 1, 2027 to, but excluding the maturity date or earlier redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly at a variable rate, which is expected to be the then three-month Term SOFR, plus 279 basis points. Interest on the subordinated notes is payable semi-annually, commencing on March 1, 2023 through September 1, 2027 and quarterly thereafter. The notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time upon the occurrence of certain events. The subordinated notes may be redeemed at the Company’s option, in whole or in part, on any interest payment date on or after September 1, 2027, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the date of redemption. The subordinated notes are subordinate in the right of payment to the Company’s senior indebtedness and the indebtedness and other liabilities of the subsidiary banks.
On August 18, 2022, the Company completed a private offering of $55.0 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating subordinated notes that mature on September 1, 2037. The subordinated notes, which qualify as Tier 2 capital for the Company, bear interest at a fixed rate of 5.95% per year, from and including September 1, 2022 to, but excluding September 1, 2032 or earlier redemption. From and including September 1, 2032 to, but excluding the maturity date or earlier redemption date, the interest rate will reset quarterly at a variable rate, which is expected to be the then three-month Term SOFR, plus 300 basis points. Interest on the subordinated notes is payable quarterly, commencing on December 1, 2022. The notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time upon the occurrence
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 13. Subordinated Notes (continued)
of certain events. The subordinated notes may be redeemed at the Company’s option, in whole or in part, on any interest payment date on or after September 1, 2032, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the date of redemption. The subordinated notes are subordinate in the right of payment to the Company’s senior indebtedness and the indebtedness and other liabilities of the subsidiary banks.
Note 14. Junior Subordinated Debentures
Junior subordinated debentures are summarized as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
Note Payable to QCR Holdings Capital Trust II
$
10,310
$
10,310
Note Payable to QCR Holdings Capital Trust III
8,248
8,248
Note Payable to QCR Holdings Capital Trust V
10,310
10,310
Note Payable to Community National Trust II*
3,093
3,093
Note Payable to Community National Trust III*
3,609
3,609
Note Payable to Guaranty Bankshares Statutory Trust I**
4,640
4,640
Note Payable to Guaranty Statutory Trust II***
10,310
10,310
Market Value Discount per ASC 805****
(1,789)
(1,918)
$
48,731
$
48,602
* As part of the acquisition of Community National in 2013, the Company assumed two junior subordinated debentures with a total fair value of $4.2 million.
** As part of the acquisition of Guaranty Bank in 2017, the Company assumed one junior subordinated debenture with a fair value of $3.9 million.
*** As part of the acquisition of GFED in 2022, the Company assumed one junior subordinated debenture with a fair value of $10.3 million.
**** Market value discount includes discount on junior subordinated debt acquired as described in *, ** and ***.
A schedule of the Company’s non-consolidated subsidiaries formed for the issuance of trust preferred securities, including the amounts outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, is as follows:
Amount
Amount
Outstanding
Outstanding
December 31,
December 31,
Interest Rate as of
Interest Rate as of
Name
Date Issued
Interest Rate
December 31, 2023
December 31, 2022
(dollars in thousands)
QCR Holdings Statutory Trust II
February 2004
$
10,310
$
10,310
2.85% over 3-month SOFR
8.44
%
6.52
%
QCR Holdings Statutory Trust III
February 2004
8,248
8,248
2.85% over 3-month SOFR
8.44
%
6.52
%
QCR Holdings Statutory Trust V
February 2006
10,310
10,310
1.55% over 3-month SOFR
7.21
%
5.63
%
Community National Statutory Trust II
September 2004
3,093
3,093
2.17% over 3-month SOFR
7.80
%
6.92
%
Community National Statutory Trust III
March 2007
3,609
3,609
1.75% over 3-month SOFR
7.40
%
6.52
%
Guaranty Bankshares Statutory Trust I
May 2005
4,640
4,640
1.75% over 3-month SOFR
7.40
%
6.52
%
Guaranty Statutory Trust II
December 2005
10,310
10,310
1.45% over 3-month SOFR
7.09
%
6.14
%
$
50,520
$
50,520
Weighted Average Rate
7.70
%
6.29
%
Securities issued by all of the trusts listed above mature 30 years from the date of issuance, but all are currently callable at par at any time. Interest rate reset dates vary by Trust.
The Company uses interest rate swaps for the purpose of hedging interest rate risk on all of the variable rate junior subordinated debt. See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the details of these instruments.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 15. Federal and State Income Taxes
Federal and state income tax expense was comprised of the following components for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021:
(dollars in thousands)
Current
$
14,008
$
19,165
$
7,290
Deferred
(946)
(4,682)
15,272
$
13,062
$
14,483
$
22,562
A reconciliation of the expected federal income tax expense to the income tax expense included in the consolidated statements of income was as follows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021:
Year Ended December 31,
% of
% of
% of
Pretax
Pretax
Pretax
Amount
Income
Amount
Income
Amount
Income
(dollars in thousands)
Computed "expected" tax expense
$
26,590
21.0
%
$
23,845
21.0
%
$
25,508
21.0
%
Tax exempt income, net
(13,823)
(10.9)
(10,689)
(9.4)
(7,537)
(6.2)
Bank-owned life insurance
(875)
(0.7)
(432)
(0.4)
(386)
(0.3)
State income taxes, net of federal benefit, current year
4,433
3.5
4,482
3.9
5,089
4.2
Change in unrecognized tax benefits
0.3
0.4
0.5
Provision adjustment from accounting method change
(247)
(0.2)
(1,181)
(1.0)
-
-
Tax credits
(2,865)
(2.3)
(1,362)
(1.2)
-
Acquisition costs
-
-
0.2
0.1
Excess tax benefit on stock options exercised and restricted stock awards vested
(464)
(0.3)
(503)
(0.4)
(436)
(0.4)
Other
(83)
(0.1)
(451)
(0.4)
(383)
(0.3)
Federal and state income tax expense
$
13,062
10.3
%
$
14,483
12.7
%
$
22,562
18.6
%
Changes in the unrecognized tax benefits included in other liabilities are as follows for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning
$
2,680
$
2,182
Impact of tax positions taken during current year
Gross increase related to tax positions of prior years
Reduction as a result of a lapse of the applicable statute of limitations
(426)
(335)
Balance, ending
$
3,076
$
2,680
Included in the unrecognized tax benefits liability at December 31, 2023 are potential benefits of approximately $2.5 million that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate.
The liability for unrecognized tax benefits includes accrued interest for tax positions, which either do not meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold or where the tax benefit is measured at an amount less than the tax benefit claimed or expected to be claimed on an income tax return. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, accrued interest on uncertain tax positions was approximately $486 thousand and $333 thousand, respectively. Estimated interest related to the underpayment of income taxes is classified as a component of “income tax expense” in the statements of income.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 15. Federal and State Income Taxes (continued)
The Company’s federal income tax returns are open and subject to examination from the 2020 tax return year and later. Various state franchise and income tax returns are generally open from the 2019 and later tax return years based on individual state statutes of limitations.
The net deferred tax assets consisted of the following as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
(dollars in thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
Historic tax credits
$
-
$
Low income housing tax credits
-
Net unrealized losses on securities available for sale and derivative instruments
18,127
21,319
Compensation
15,761
13,413
Loan/lease losses
20,628
20,466
Net operating loss carryforwards, federal and state
1,262
55,146
56,754
Deferred tax liabilities:
Premises and equipment
7,206
6,271
Equipment financing leases
2,084
2,484
Acquisition fair value adjustments
3,983
3,816
Investment accretion
-
Deferred loan origination fees, net
1,515
1,624
Prepaid expense
1,749
1,534
Other
16,954
16,316
Net deferred tax assets
$
38,192
$
40,438
At December 31, 2023, the Company had $2.8 million of federal tax NOL carryforwards and $2.0 million of state tax NOL carryforwards. $1.4 million of the federal tax NOL carryforwards are related to the acquisition of Community National and CNB and these losses are set to expire in varying amounts between 2029 and 2033. $2.0 million of the state tax NOL carryforwards are also related to the acquisition of Community National and CNB and are set to expire in varying amounts between 2024 and 2028. The additional $1.4 million of federal tax NOLs were acquired in 2022 with the Guaranty Bank acquisition. The newly acquired federal tax NOLs are expected to be utilized prior to their expiration dates.
The change in deferred income taxes was reflected in the Consolidated Financial Statements as follows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021:
(dollars in thousands)
Provision for income taxes
$
(946)
$
(4,682)
$
15,272
Statement of stockholders' equity- Other comprehensive income (loss)
3,192
(22,066)
(122)
$
2,246
$
(26,748)
$
15,150
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 16. Employee Benefit Plans
The Company has a profit sharing plan, which includes a provision designed to qualify under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, to allow for participants to defer a portion of their annual compensation under the profit sharing plan. Substantially all employees who are at least 18 years of age are eligible to participate in
the plan. The Company matches 100% of an employee’s deferrals up to the first 3% of an employee’s annual compensation, and 50% of the next 3% of an employee’s deferred annual compensation, up to a maximum amount of
4.5% of an employee’s annual compensation. Additionally, at its discretion, the Company may make additional contributions to the plan, which are allocated to the accounts of participants in the plan based on relative compensation. There were no discretionary contributions for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. Company matching contributions for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 were as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
Matching contribution
$
3,314
$
3,071
$
2,446
The Company has entered into nonqualified supplemental executive retirement plans (SERPs) with certain executive officers. The SERPs allow certain executives to accumulate retirement benefits beyond those provided by the qualified retirement plan. Changes in the liability related to the SERPs, included in other liabilities, are as follows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning
$
8,165
$
7,273
$
6,189
Expense accrued
1,286
1,532
Cash payments made
(365)
(394)
(448)
Balance, ending
$
8,689
$
8,165
$
7,273
The Company has a deferred compensation plan under which it has entered into deferred compensation agreements with certain officers. Under the provisions of the agreements, the executive officers may defer compensation and the Company matches the deferral up to certain maximums. The Company’s matching contribution varies by officer as well. Certain officers have a 100% match and have a maximum of between $10 thousand and $25 thousand annually as set forth in each officer’s participation agreement. Interest on the deferred amounts is earned at prime rate subject to a minimum of 4% and a maximum of 12%, with such limits differing by officer. Other officers have a 50% match and have a maximum between 4% and 12% of compensation as set forth in each officers’ participation agreement. Interest on the deferred amounts is earned at prime rate plus one percentage point and has a minimum of 4% and shall not exceed 8%.
Upon retirement, each executive officer and other officer will, subject to a potential six-month deferral, receive the deferral balance in 180 equal monthly installments. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the liability related to the agreements totaled $46.8 million and $38.2 million, respectively.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 16. Employee Benefit Plans (continued)
Changes in the deferred compensation agreements, included in other liabilities, are as follows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021:
(dollars in thousands)
Balance, beginning
$
38,255
$
32,353
$
24,713
Employee deferrals
4,306
3,615
4,900
Company match and interest
4,788
2,776
3,048
Cash payments made
(549)
(489)
(308)
Balance, ending
$
46,800
$
38,255
$
32,353
Note 17. Stock-Based Compensation
The Company’s Board of Directors adopted in February 2010, and the stockholders approved in May 2010, the QCR Holdings, Inc. 2010 Equity Incentive Plan (“2010 Equity Incentive Plan”). The Company’s Board of Directors adopted in February 2013, and the stockholders approved in May 2013, the QCR Holdings, Inc. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (“2013 Equity Incentive Plan”). The Company’s Board of Directors adopted in February 2016, and the stockholders approved in May 2016, the QCR Holdings, Inc. 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (“2016 Equity Incentive Plan”). Up to 350,000, 350,000, and 400,000 shares of common stock, respectively, may be issued to employees and directors of the Company and its subsidiaries pursuant to equity incentive awards granted under these plans.
The 2010 Equity Incentive Plan, the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan and the 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (collectively, the “Equity Plans”) are administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Committee”). As of December 31, 2023, there were 55,554 remaining shares of common stock available for the grant of future awards under the Equity Plans; however, such future awards may be granted only under the 2016 Equity Incentive Plan.
The number and exercise price of options granted under the Equity Plans are determined by the Committee at the time the option is granted. In no event can the exercise price be less than the value of the common stock at the date of the grant for stock options. All options have a 10-year life and will vest and become exercisable from 3-to-7 years after the date of the grant. The value of restricted stock awards is estimated by using the market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant.
Stock-based compensation expense was reflected in the Consolidated Financial Statements as follows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021.
(dollars in thousands)
Stock options
$
$
$
Restricted stock awards
2,084
1,967
1,864
Stock purchase plan
$
2,678
$
2,438
$
2,352
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 17. Stock-Based Compensation (continued)
Stock options:
A summary of the stock option plans as of December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 and changes during the years then ended is presented below:
December 31,
Weighted
Weighted
Weighted
Average
Average
Average
Exercise
Exercise
Exercise
Shares
Price
Shares
Price
Shares
Price
Outstanding, beginning
346,678
$
27.60
367,998
$
24.46
407,763
$
22.24
Granted
25,000
53.31
22,400
53.87
22,150
43.61
Exercised
(81,354)
19.45
(41,695)
14.07
(60,317)
15.76
Forfeited
(175)
15.65
(2,025)
26.72
(1,598)
38.50
Outstanding, ending
290,149
32.11
346,678
27.60
367,998
24.46
Exercisable, ending
233,967
295,077
318,266
Weighted average fair value per option granted
$
16.36
$
13.97
$
10.85
A further summary of options outstanding as of December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Options Outstanding
Weighted
Options Exercisable
Average
Weighted
Weighted
Remaining
Average
Average
Range of
Number
Contractual
Exercise
Number
Exercise
Exercise Prices
Outstanding
Life
Price
Exercisable
Price
$17.10 to $17.86
96,500
0.62
$
17.32
96,460
$
17.32
$21.71 to $22.64
52,716
2.08
22.64
52,716
22.64
$29.77 to $36.00
14,212
5.16
36.00
14,212
36.00
$40.00 to $41.95
20,049
6.06
40.10
15,515
40.13
$42.65 to $48.50
59,572
4.82
43.86
49,254
43.91
$53.31 to $56.26
47,100
8.70
53.57
5,850
53.87
290,149
234,007
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 17. Stock-Based Compensation (continued)
Restricted stock and unit awards:
A summary of changes in the Company’s nonvested restricted stock, restricted stock unit and performance stock unit awards as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 is presented below:
December 31,
Outstanding, beginning
84,115
97,107
102,489
Granted*
51,157
35,525
38,360
Released
(43,331)
(47,766)
(43,691)
Forfeited
(3,763)
(751)
(51)
Outstanding, ending
88,178
84,115
97,107
Weighted average fair value per share granted
$
51.64
$
54.20
$
45.18
* At December 31, 2023, includes 4,500 shares of restricted stock, 80,820 restricted stock units.
At December 31, 2022, includes 8,527 shares of restricted stock and 64,494 restricted stock units.
At December 31, 2021, includes 12,412 shares of restricted stock and 25,948 restricted stock units.
The total grant value of restricted stock, restricted stock unit and performance share unit awards that were released during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $2.2 million, $2.6 million and $1.9 million, respectively.
Employee stock purchase plan:
On May 19, 2022, the Company’s stockholders approved the QCR Holdings, Inc. 2022 Stock Purchase Plan (the “2022 Purchase Plan”). The 2022 Purchase Plan has an effective date of July 1, 2022 and a share reserve equal to 350,000 shares plus the shares remaining under the QCR Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan immediately prior to its termination on July 1, 2022. As of January 1, 2024, there were 345,801 shares of common stock available for issuance under the 2022 Purchase Plan. For each six-month offering period, the Board of Directors will determine how many of the total number of available shares will be offered. The purchase price is the lesser of 85% or the fair market value at the date of the grant or the investment date. The investment date, as established by the Board of Directors, is the date common stock is purchased after the end of each calendar quarter during an offering period. The maximum dollar amount any one participant can elect to contribute in a year is $21,250. Additionally, the maximum percentage that any one participant can elect to contribute is 15% of his or her compensation for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. Information for the stock purchase plan for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 is presented below:
Shares granted
36,964
28,421
28,396
Shares purchased
35,058
27,103
30,543
Weighted average fair value per share granted
$
8.35
$
7.88
$
7.67
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 18. Regulatory Capital Requirements and Restrictions on Dividends
The Company (on a consolidated basis) and the subsidiary banks are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the federal banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company and subsidiary banks’ financial statements.
Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company and the subsidiary banks must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of their assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors. Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Company and the subsidiary banks to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the following table) of total common equity Tier 1 and Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets and of Tier 1 capital to average assets, each as defined by regulation. Management believes, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, that the Company and the subsidiary banks met all capital adequacy requirements to which they are subject.
Under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, to be categorized as “well capitalized,” an institution must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based, Tier 1 leverage and common equity Tier 1 ratios as set forth in the following tables. The Company and the subsidiary banks’ actual capital amounts and ratios as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are also presented in the following table (dollars in thousands). As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the subsidiary banks met the requirements to be “well capitalized”.
For Capital
To Be Well
Adequacy Purposes
Capitalized Under
For Capital
With Capital
Prompt Corrective
Actual
Adequacy Purposes
Conservation Buffer
Action Provisions
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
( dollars in thousands)
As of December 31, 2023:
Company:
Total risk-based capital
$
1,171,047
14.29
%
$
655,461
>
8.00
%
$
860,293
>
10.50
%
$
819,327
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
841,052
10.27
491,596
>
6.00
696,428
>
8.50
655,461
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
841,052
10.03
335,420
>
4.00
335,420
>
4.00
419,275
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
792,321
9.67
368,697
>
4.50
573,529
>
7.00
532,562
>
6.50
Quad City Bank & Trust:
Total risk-based capital
$
300,413
12.67
%
$
189,707
>
8.00
%
$
248,990
>
10.50
%
$
237,133
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
270,744
11.42
142,280
>
6.00
201,563
>
8.50
189,707
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
270,744
11.23
96,425
>
4.00
96,425
>
4.00
120,531
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
270,744
11.42
106,710
>
4.50
165,993
>
7.00
154,137
>
6.50
Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust:
Total risk-based capital
$
381,514
15.60
%
$
195,687
>
8.00
%
$
256,840
>
10.50
%
$
244,609
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
354,940
14.51
146,766
>
6.00
207,918
>
8.50
195,687
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
354,940
14.77
96,093
>
4.00
96,093
>
4.00
120,116
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
354,940
14.51
110,074
>
4.50
171,227
>
7.00
158,996
>
6.50
Community State Bank:
Total risk-based capital
$
171,747
13.22
%
$
103,903
>
8.00
%
$
136,372
>
10.50
%
$
129,878
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
156,629
12.06
77,927
>
6.00
110,397
>
8.50
103,903
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
156,629
11.19
56,005
>
4.00
56,005
>
4.00
70,007
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
156,629
12.06
58,445
>
4.50
90,915
>
7.00
84,421
>
6.50
Guaranty Bank:
Total risk-based capital
$
267,822
12.68
%
$
168,967
>
8.00
%
$
221,770
>
10.50
%
$
211,209
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
244,506
11.58
126,726
>
6.00
179,528
>
8.50
168,967
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
244,506
11.41
85,688
>
4.00
85,688
>
4.00
107,110
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
244,506
11.58
95,044
>
4.50
147,847
>
7.00
137,286
>
6.50
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 18. Regulatory Capital Requirements and Restrictions on Dividends (continued)
For Capital
To Be Well
Adequacy Purposes
Capitalized Under
For Capital
With Capital
Prompt Corrective
Actual
Adequacy Purposes
Conservation Buffer
Action Provisions
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
Amount
Ratio
( dollars in thousands)
As of December 31, 2022:
Company:
Total risk-based capital
$
1,055,177
14.28
%
$
591,132
>
8.00
%
$
775,861
>
10.50
%
$
738,915
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
734,977
9.95
443,349
>
6.00
628,078
>
8.50
591,132
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
734,977
9.61
305,959
>
4.00
305,959
>
4.00
382,449
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
686,375
9.29
332,512
>
4.50
517,241
>
7.00
480,295
>
6.50
Quad City Bank & Trust:
Total risk-based capital
$
275,337
13.07
%
$
168,588
>
8.00
%
$
221,272
>
10.50
%
$
210,735
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
248,978
11.81
126,441
>
6.00
179,125
>
8.50
168,588
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
248,978
11.01
90,419
>
4.00
90,419
>
4.00
133,023
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
248,978
11.81
94,831
>
4.50
147,514
>
7.00
136,978
>
6.50
Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust:
Total risk-based capital
$
308,153
14.84
%
$
166,168
>
8.00
%
$
218,096
>
10.50
%
$
207,711
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
282,258
13.59
124,626
>
6.00
176,554
>
8.50
166,168
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
282,258
13.17
85,707
>
4.00
85,707
>
4.00
107,134
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
282,258
13.59
93,470
>
4.50
145,397
>
7.00
135,012
>
6.50
Community State Bank:
Total risk-based capital
$
142,974
12.04
%
$
94,981
>
8.00
%
$
124,662
>
10.50
%
$
118,726
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
128,130
10.79
71,236
>
6.00
100,917
>
8.50
94,981
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
128,130
10.09
50,799
>
4.00
50,799
>
4.00
63,499
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
128,130
10.79
53,427
>
4.50
83,108
>
7.00
77,172
>
6.50
Guaranty Bank:
Total risk-based capital
$
243,106
12.24
%
$
158,903
>
8.00
%
$
208,560
>
10.50
%
$
198,629
>
10.00
%
Tier 1 risk-based capital
218,647
11.01
119,177
>
6.00
168,834
>
8.50
158,903
>
8.00
Tier 1 leverage
218,647
10.90
80,229
>
4.00
80,229
>
4.00
100,286
>
5.00
Common equity Tier 1
218,647
11.01
89,383
>
4.50
139,040
>
7.00
129,109
>
6.50
The Company’s ability to pay dividends to its stockholders may be affected by both general corporate law considerations and policies of the Federal Reserve applicable to bank holding companies.
The payment of dividends by any financial institution or its holding company is affected by the requirement to maintain adequate capital pursuant to applicable capital adequacy guidelines and regulations, and a financial institution generally is prohibited from paying any dividends if, following payment thereof, the institution would be undercapitalized. Notwithstanding the availability of funds for dividends, however, the Federal Reserve may prohibit the payment of any dividends by the subsidiary banks if the Federal Reserve determines such payment would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice.
The Company also has certain contractual restrictions on its ability to pay dividends. The Company has issued junior subordinated debentures in four private placements and assumed four issues of junior subordinated debentures in connection with the acquisitions. Under the terms of the debentures, the Company may be prohibited, under certain circumstances, from paying dividends on shares of its common stock. These circumstances did not exist at December 31, 2023 or 2022.
On February 13, 2020, the board of directors of the Company approved a share repurchase program under which the Company was authorized to repurchase, from time to time as the Company deemed appropriate, up to 800,000 shares of its outstanding common stock, or approximately 5% of the outstanding shares as of December 31, 2019. On May 19, 2022, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a share repurchase program under which the Company is authorized to repurchase, from time to time as the Company deems appropriate, up to an additional 1,500,000 shares of its outstanding common stock, or approximately 10% of the outstanding shares as of December 31, 2021. There were 175,000 and 970,000 shares of common stock purchased by the Company during the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. There were 760,915 shares of common stock remaining for repurchase as of December 31, 2023.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 19. Earnings per Share
The following information was used in the computation of basic and diluted EPS for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021:
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Net income
$
113,558
$
99,066
$
98,905
Basic EPS
$
6.79
$
5.94
$
6.30
Diluted EPS
$
6.73
$
5.87
$
6.20
Weighted average common shares outstanding
16,732,406
16,681,844
15,708,744
Weighted average common shares issuable upon exercise of stock options
and under the employee stock purchase plan*
133,985
208,163
235,964
Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding
16,866,391
16,890,007
15,944,708
* Excludes anti-dilutive restricted stock shares of 1,762, 1,706, and 0 at December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively and anti-dilutive options
of 47,164, 22,503 and 21,718 at December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Note 20. Commitments and Contingencies
In the normal course of business, the subsidiary banks make various commitments and incur certain contingent liabilities that are not presented in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements. The commitments and contingent liabilities include various guarantees, commitments to extend credit, and standby letters of credit.
Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The subsidiary banks evaluate each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the subsidiary banks upon extension of credit, is based upon management’s credit evaluation of the counterparty. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, marketable securities, inventory, property, plant and equipment, and income-producing commercial properties.
Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the subsidiary banks to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Those guarantees are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements and, generally, have terms of one year or less. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. The subsidiary banks hold collateral, as described above, supporting those commitments if deemed necessary. In the event the customer does not perform in accordance with the terms of the agreement with the third party, the subsidiary banks would be required to fund the commitments. The maximum potential amount of future payments the subsidiary banks could be required to make is represented by the contractual amount. If the commitment is funded, the subsidiary banks would be entitled to seek recovery from the customer. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, no amounts had been recorded as liabilities for the subsidiary banks’ potential obligations under these guarantees.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, commitments to extend credit aggregated $2.0 billion and $1.7 billion, respectively. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, standby letters of credit aggregated $23.7 million and $25.8 million, respectively. Management does not expect that all of these commitments will be funded.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 20. Commitments and Contingencies (continued)
The Company has also executed contracts for the sale of mortgage loans in the secondary market in the amount of $2.6 million and $1.5 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. These amounts are included in loans held for sale at the respective balance sheet dates.
Residential mortgage loans sold to investors in the secondary market are sold with varying recourse provisions. Essentially, all loan sales agreements require the repurchase of a mortgage loan by the seller in situations such as breach of representation, warranty, or covenant, untimely document delivery, false or misleading statements, failure to obtain certain certificates of insurance, unmarketability, etc. Certain loan sales agreements contain repurchase requirements based on payment-related defects that are defined in terms of the number of days/months since the purchase, the sequence number of the payment, and/or the number of days of payment delinquency. Based on the specific terms stated in the agreements of investors purchasing residential mortgage loans from the Company’s subsidiary banks, the Company had $11.0 million and $14.5 million of sold residential mortgage loans with recourse provisions still in effect at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The subsidiary banks did not repurchase any loans from secondary market investors under the terms of loans sales agreements during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021. In the opinion of management, the risk of recourse and the subsequent requirement of loan repurchase to the subsidiary banks is not significant, and accordingly no liabilities have been established related to such.
See Note 6 regarding the Company’s contractual commitments for construction.
Aside from cash on-hand and in-vault, the majority of the Company’s cash is maintained at upstream correspondent banks. The total amount of cash on deposit, certificates of deposit, and federal funds sold exceeded federal insured limits by approximately $96.1 million and $67.7 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. In the opinion of management, no material risk of loss exists due to the financial condition of the upstream correspondent banks.
In an arrangement with Goldman Sachs, CRBT offers a cash management program for select customers. Based on a predetermined minimum balance, which must be maintained in the customer’s account, excess funds are automatically swept daily to an institutional money market fund administered by Goldman Sachs. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company had $1.9 million and $69.4 million, respectively of customer funds invested in this cash management program. In the opinion of management, no material risk of loss exists due to the financial condition of Goldman Sachs. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were $5.4 million and $5.3 million of investment securities pledged on the Goldman Sachs program, respectively, as a cover to the swap exposure.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 21. Parent Company Only Financial Statements
The following is condensed financial information of QCR Holdings, Inc. (parent company only):
Condensed Balance Sheets
December 31, 2023 and 2022
(dollars in thousands)
Assets
Cash and due from banks
$
53,331
$
84,172
Investment in bank subsidiaries
1,122,803
965,973
Investment in nonbank subsidiaries
6,129
7,196
Premises and equipment, net
9,286
9,639
Other assets
14,512
10,157
Total assets
$
1,206,061
$
1,077,137
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Liabilities:
Subordinated notes
$
233,064
$
232,662
Junior subordinated debentures
48,731
48,602
Other liabilities
37,670
23,149
Total liabilities
319,465
304,413
Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock
16,749
16,796
Additional paid-in capital
370,814
370,712
Retained earnings
554,992
450,114
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(55,959)
(64,898)
Total stockholders' equity
886,596
772,724
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
1,206,061
$
1,077,137
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 21. Parent Company Only Financial Statements (continued)
Condensed Statements of Income
Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
(dollars in thousands)
Total interest income
$
-
$
$
Equity in net income of bank subsidiaries
137,451
128,941
117,408
Equity in net income of nonbank subsidiaries
2,220
1,294
Other
(53)
Total income
140,375
130,208
118,720
Interest expense
16,066
11,836
8,482
Salaries and employee benefits
9,940
15,551
12,446
Professional fees
1,789
1,983
Acquisition costs
-
3,715
Post-acquisition compensation, transition and integration costs
5,526
-
Disposition costs
-
-
Other
3,744
3,331
2,784
Total expenses
29,969
41,748
26,332
Income before income tax benefit
110,406
88,460
92,388
Income tax benefit
3,152
10,606
6,517
Net income
$
113,558
$
99,066
$
98,905
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 21. Parent Company Only Financial Statements (continued)
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021
(dollars in thousands)
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net income
$
113,558
$
99,066
$
98,905
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Earnings of bank subsidiaries
(137,451)
(128,941)
(117,408)
Earnings of nonbank subsidiaries
(2,220)
(1,294)
(456)
Distributions from bank subsidiaries
-
36,000
-
Distributions from nonbank subsidiaries
Deferred income taxes
(349)
(2,443)
(1,093)
Accretion of acquisition fair value adjustments
Depreciation
Deferred compensation expense accrued
4,063
4,062
Stock-based compensation expense
2,678
2,438
2,352
Gain on sale of fixed assets
-
-
Decrease (increase) in other assets
(2,649)
Increase (decrease) in other liabilities
9,062
10,827
(14,702)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
(12,489)
20,990
(30,832)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Net decrease in interest-bearing deposits at financial institutions
-
5,950
1,450
Capital infusion, bank subsidiaries
(10,000)
-
-
Capital infusion, non-bank subsidiaries
-
(300)
(375)
Net cash received in dissolution of subsidiary
3,184
-
-
Net cash paid for acquisitions
-
(26,039)
-
Purchase of premises and equipment
(224)
(1,484)
(31)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
(7,040)
(21,873)
1,044
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Proceeds from subordinated notes
-
100,000
-
Payment of cash dividends
(4,029)
(3,944)
(3,793)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net
1,403
Repurchase and cancellation of shares
(8,686)
(52,954)
(14,168)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
(11,312)
43,524
(17,291)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and due from banks
(30,841)
42,641
(47,079)
Cash and due from banks:
Beginning
84,172
41,531
88,610
Ending
$
53,331
$
84,172
$
41,531
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 22. Fair Value
Accounting guidance on fair value measurements uses a hierarchy intended to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. This hierarchy includes three levels and is based upon the valuation techniques used to measure assets and liabilities. The three levels are as follows:
● Level 1 - Inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in markets;
● Level 2 - Inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument; and
● Level 3 - Inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis comprised the following at December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
Quoted Prices
Significant
in Active
Other
Significant
Markets for
Observable
Unobservable
Identical Assets
Inputs
Inputs
Fair Value
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
(dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2023:
Securities AFS:
U.S. treasuries and govt. sponsored agency securities
$
14,973
$
-
$
14,973
$
-
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
59,196
-
59,196
-
Municipal securities
170,987
-
170,987
-
Asset-backed securities
15,423
-
15,423
-
Other securities
39,076
-
39,076
-
Securities trading
22,369
-
-
22,369
Derivatives
187,341
-
187,341
-
Total assets measured at fair value
$
509,365
$
-
$
486,996
$
22,369
Derivatives
$
215,735
$
-
$
215,735
$
-
Total liabilities measured at fair value
$
215,735
$
-
$
215,735
$
-
December 31, 2022:
Securities AFS:
U.S. govt. sponsored agency securities
$
16,981
$
-
$
16,981
$
-
Residential mortgage-backed and related securities
66,215
-
66,215
-
Municipal securities
193,178
-
193,178
-
Asset-backed securities
18,728
-
18,728
-
Other securities
45,858
-
45,858
-
Derivatives
177,631
-
177,631
-
Total assets measured at fair value
$
518,591
$
-
$
518,591
$
-
Derivatives
$
200,701
$
-
$
200,701
$
-
Total liabilities measured at fair value
$
200,701
$
-
$
200,701
$
-
The securities AFS portfolio consists of securities whereby the Company obtains fair values from an independent pricing service. The fair values are determined by pricing models that consider observable market data, such as interest rate volatilities, LIBOR yield curve, credit spreads and prices from market makers and live trading systems (Level 2 inputs).
Trading securities consist of retained beneficial interests from securitizations and are classified as a Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 2023. Fair values are estimated using the discounted cash flow method, including discount rates which are deemed to be significant unobservable inputs. As of December 31, 2023, the discount rates ranged from 5.52% to 7.56%.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 22. Fair Value (continued)
Interest rate caps, swaps and collars are used for the purpose of hedging interest rate risk on various financial assets and liabilities. See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the details of these instruments. Interest rate swaps are also executed for select commercial customers. The fair values are determined by pricing models that consider observable market data for derivative instruments with similar structures (Level 2 inputs).
Certain financial assets are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis; that is, the assets are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment).
Assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis comprised the following at December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
Quoted Prices
Significant
in Active
Other
Significant
Markets for
Observable
Unobservable
Identical Assets
Inputs
Inputs
Fair Value
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
(dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2023:
Loans/leases evaluated individually
$
33,656
$
-
$
-
$
33,656
OREO
1,455
-
-
1,455
$
35,111
$
-
$
-
$
35,111
December 31, 2022:
Loans/leases evaluated individually
$
30,765
$
-
$
-
$
30,765
OREO
-
-
$
30,909
$
-
$
-
$
30,909
Loans/leases evaluated individually are valued at the lower of cost or fair value and are classified as a Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. Fair value is measured based on the value of the collateral securing these loans/leases. Collateral may be real estate and/or business assets including equipment, inventory and/or accounts receivable and is determined based on appraisals by qualified licensed appraisers hired by the Company. Appraised and reported values may be discounted based on management’s historical knowledge, changes in market conditions from the time of valuation, and/or management’s expertise and knowledge of the client and client’s business.
OREO in the table above consists of property acquired through foreclosures and settlements of loans. Property acquired is carried at the estimated fair value of the property, less disposal costs, and is classified as a Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The estimated fair value of the property is determined based on appraisals by qualified licensed appraisers hired by the Company. Appraised and reported values are discounted based on management’s historical knowledge, changes in market conditions from the time of valuation, and/or management’s expertise and knowledge of the property.
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 22. Fair Value (continued)
The following table presents additional quantitative information about assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis for which the Company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value:
Quantitative Information about Level Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value
Fair Value
December 31,
December 31,
Valuation Technique
Unobservable Input
Range
(dollars in thousands)
Loans/leases evaluated individually
$
33,656
$
30,765
Appraisal of collateral
Appraisal adjustments
-10.00
%
to
-30.00
%
OREO
1,455
Appraisal of collateral
Appraisal adjustments
0.00
%
to
-35.00
%
For loans/leases evaluated individually and OREO, the Company records carrying value at fair value less disposal or selling costs. The amounts reported in the tables above are fair values before the adjustment for disposal or selling costs.
There have been no changes in valuation techniques used for any assets measured at fair value during the years ended December 31, 2023 or 2022.
The following table presents the carrying values and estimated fair values of financial assets and liabilities carried on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet, including those financial assets and liabilities that are not measured and reported at fair value on a recurring basis or non-recurring basis:
Fair Value
As of December 31, 2023
As of December 31, 2022
Hierarchy
Carrying
Estimated
Carrying
Estimated
Level
Value
Fair Value
Value
Fair Value
(dollars in thousands)
Cash and due from banks
Level 1
$
97,123
$
97,123
$
59,723
$
59,723
Federal funds sold
Level 2
35,450
35,450
56,910
56,910
Interest-bearing deposits at financial institutions
Level 2
104,919
104,919
67,360
67,360
Investment securities:
HTM
Level 2
683,504
680,279
587,142
535,636
AFS
Level 2
299,655
299,655
340,960
340,960
Trading
Level 3
22,369
22,369
-
-
Loans/leases receivable, net
Level 3
31,163
33,656
28,486
30,765
Loans/leases receivable, net
Level 2
6,425,053
6,125,433
6,022,679
5,896,443
Derivatives
Level 2
187,341
187,341
177,631
177,631
Deposits:
Nonmaturity deposits
Level 2
5,504,323
5,504,323
5,199,633
5,199,633
Time deposits
Level 2
1,009,682
996,746
784,584
766,294
Short-term borrowings
Level 2
1,500
1,500
129,630
129,630
FHLB advances
Level 2
435,000
437,178
415,000
415,000
Subordinated notes
Level 2
233,064
240,235
232,662
250,613
Junior subordinated debentures
Level 2
48,731
40,397
48,602
41,545
Derivatives
Level 2
215,735
215,735
200,701
200,701
QCR Holdings, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 23. Business Segment Information
Selected financial and descriptive information is required to be disclosed for reportable operating segments, applying a “management perspective” as the basis for identifying reportable segments. The management perspective is determined by the view that management takes of the segments within the Company when making operating decisions, allocating resources, and measuring performance. The segments of the Company have been defined by the structure of the Company’s internal organization, focusing on the financial information that the Company’s operating decision-makers routinely use to make decisions about operating matters.
The Company’s Commercial Banking business is geographically divided by markets into the operating segments which are the four subsidiary banks wholly-owned by the Company: QCBT, CRBT, CSB and GB. Each of these operating segments offer similar products and services, but are managed separately due to different pricing, product demand, and consumer markets. Each offers commercial, consumer, and mortgage loans and deposit services.
The Company's All Other segment includes the corporate operations of the parent and operations of all other consolidated subsidiaries and/or defined operating segments that fall below the segment reporting thresholds.
Selected financial information on the Company’s business segments is presented as follows as of and for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021:
Commercial Banking
Intercompany
Consolidated
QCBT
CRBT
CSB
GB
All other
Eliminations
Total
(dollars in thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Total revenue
$
145,375
$
201,293
$
73,253
$
128,039
$
142,608
$
(144,474)
$
546,094
Net interest income
67,900
67,413
43,656
56,667
(15,885)
1,255
221,006
Provision for loan/lease losses
12,512
2,139
1,248
-
-
16,539
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
21,766
72,378
18,027
25,280
115,663
(139,556)
113,558
Goodwill
3,223
14,980
9,888
110,936
-
-
139,027
Intangibles
-
1,430
11,508
-
-
13,821
Total assets
2,448,957
2,419,146
1,426,202
2,281,296
1,213,954
(1,250,661)
8,538,894
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Total revenue
$
103,621
$
128,070
$
54,129
$
87,880
$
131,922
$
(132,322)
$
373,300
Net interest income
71,604
65,392
40,781
63,734
(11,779)
1,388
231,120
Provision for loan/lease losses
1,073
(961)
(1,335)
9,507
-
-
8,284
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
33,850
53,576
17,225
24,289
100,303
(130,177)
99,066
Goodwill
3,223
14,980
9,888
109,516
-
-
137,607
Intangibles
-
1,225
2,027
13,507
-
-
16,759
Total assets
2,312,013
2,185,500
1,297,812
2,146,474
1,086,351
(1,079,313)
7,948,837
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Total revenue
$
88,689
$
129,080
$
43,945
$
38,342
$
119,451
$
(118,930)
$
300,577
Net interest income
66,232
57,354
35,512
26,351
(8,479)
1,263
178,233
Provision for loan/lease losses
1,519
(697)
2,219
-
-
3,486
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
34,616
55,411
12,802
14,579
99,331
(117,834)
98,905
Goodwill
3,223
14,980
9,888
45,975
-
-
74,066
Intangibles
-
1,702
2,653
4,994
-
-
9,349
Total assets
2,142,344
2,030,279
1,168,606
882,885
845,120
(973,102)
6,096,132

---

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

---

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d - 15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act) as of December 31, 2023. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports filed and submitted under the Exchange Act was: (1) accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosures; and (2) recorded, processed, summarized and reported as and when required.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act). Internal control over financial reporting includes controls and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions of the Company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention of overriding controls. Accordingly, even effective internal control can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation. Further, because of changes in conditions, the effectiveness of internal control may vary over time.
The Company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. Management’s assessment is based on the criteria established in the Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013 and was designed to provide reasonable assurance that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. Based on this assessment, management believes that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023.
RSM US LLP, the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm has issued an attestation report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, which is included on the following pages of this Form 10-K.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors of QCR Holdings, Inc.
Opinion on the Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited QCR Holdings, Inc.'s and its subsidiaries’ (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in 2013.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated financial statements of the Company which comprise the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements, and our report dated February 29, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ RSM US LLP
Davenport, Iowa
February 29, 2024
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting. There have been no significant changes to the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably like to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

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ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 9B. Other Information
During the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2023, none of the Company’s directors or executive officers adopted or terminated a contract, instruction or written plan for the purchase or sale of Company securities that was intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule10b5-1(c) or any non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement.

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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The information required by this item is set forth under the captions “Proposal 1: Election of Directors,” “Corporate Governance and the Board of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the Company’s 2024 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information required by this item is set forth under the captions “Executive Compensation” and “Director Compensation” in the Company’s 2024 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The information required by this item is set forth under the caption “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners” in the Company’s 2024 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.
The table below sets forth the following information as of December 31, 2023 for (i) all compensation plans previously approved by the Company’s stockholders and (ii) all compensation plans not previously approved by the Company’s stockholders:
(a) The number of securities to be issued upon the exercise of outstanding options, warrants, and rights;
(b) The weighted-average exercise price of such outstanding options, warrants, and rights; and
(c) Other than securities to be issued upon the exercise of such outstanding options, warrants, and rights, the number of securities remaining available for future issuance under the plans.
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
Number of securities remaining
Number of securities to be
available for future issuance
issued upon exercise of
Weighted-average exercise price
under equity compensation
outstanding options, warrants,
of outstanding options,
plans (excluding securities
Plan category
and rights
warrants, and rights (1)
reflected in column (a))
(a)
(b)
(c)
Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders
382,081
(2)
$
32.17
401,355
(3)
Equity compensation plans not approved by stockholders
-
-
-
Total
382,081
(2)
$
32.17
401,355
(3)
(1) The weighted average exercise price only relates to outstanding option awards.
(2) Includes 290,149 outstanding option awards and 80,820 outstanding restricted stock units and 2,858 performance share units granted under the Equity Plans.
(3) Includes 55,554 and 345,801 shares available under the QCR Holdings, Inc. 2016 Equity Incentive Plan and the 2022 Purchase Plan, respectively.

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ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information required by this item is set forth under the captions “Corporate Governance and the Board of Directors” and “Transactions with Management and Directors” in the Company’s 2024 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information required by this item is set forth under the caption “Proposal 3: Ratification of Selection of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in the Company’s 2024 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.
Part IV

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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
(a) 1. Financial Statements
These documents are listed in the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 8.
(a) 2. Financial Statement Schedules
Financial statement schedules are omitted, as they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information is shown in the Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying notes thereto.
(a) 3. Exhibits
The following exhibits are either filed as a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or are incorporated herein by reference:
Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
3.1
Certificate of Incorporation of QCR Holdings, Inc., as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A Amendment No. 1 for the period ended September 30, 2011).
3.2
Bylaws of QCR Holdings, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Company’s Form 8-K filed on August 19, 2022).
4.1
Certain instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the Company, none of which authorize a total amount of indebtedness in excess of 10% of the total assets of the Company and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis, have not been filed as exhibits. The Company hereby agrees to furnish a copy of any of these agreements to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.
4.2
Description of the Company’s Securities (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2019).
10.1
Dividend Reinvestment Plan of QCR Holdings, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 of Company’s Form S-3D, File No. 333-102699 dated January 24, 2003).
10.2+
Amended and Restated Executive Deferred Compensation Plan Participation Agreement between Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust Company and Larry J. Helling dated December 19, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014).
10.3+
Amended and Restated Executive Deferred Compensation Plan Participation Agreement between QCR Holdings, Inc. and Todd A. Gipple dated December 19, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014).
10.4+
Non-Qualified Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Joinder Agreement between Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust Company and Larry J. Helling dated December 31, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).
10.5+
Non-Qualified Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Joinder Agreement between QCR Holdings, Inc. and Todd A. Gipple dated December 31, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).
10.6+
QCR Holdings, Inc. Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A dated March 21, 2012).
10.7+
QCR Holdings, Inc. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A dated March 20, 2013).
10.8+
Form of Participation Agreement under the QCR Holdings, Inc. Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014).
10.9+
QCR Holdings, Inc. 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A of the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A filed on April 1, 2016).
10.10+
QCR Holdings, Inc., Non-Qualified Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, as amended and restated December 22, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 28, 2016).
10.11+
Non-Qualified Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Joinder Agreement between Quad City Bank and Trust Company and John H. Anderson dated December 22, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 28, 2016).
10.12+
Form of QCR Holdings, Inc. 2016 Equity Incentive Plan Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 of the Company’s Form S-8 filed on October 27, 2016 (File No. 333-214282)).
10.13+
Form of QCR Holdings, Inc. 2016 Equity Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 of the Company’s Form S-8 filed on October 27, 2016 (File No. 333-214282)).
10.14+
Form of QCR Holdings, Inc. 2016 Equity Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 of the Company’s Form S-8 filed on October 27, 2016 (File No. 333-214282)).
10.15+
Employment Agreement, dated November 19, 2018, between QCR Holdings, Inc. and Larry Helling (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 19, 2018).
10.16+
Employment Agreement, dated November 19, 2018, between QCR Holdings, Inc. and Todd Gipple (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 19, 2018).
10.17+
Employment Agreement, dated January 9, 2019, between QCR Holdings, Inc., Quad City Bank and Trust Company, and John Anderson (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.37 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2019).
10.18+
Executive Deferred Compensation Plan Participation Agreement, dated December 16, 2016, between Quad City Bank and Trust Company and John Anderson (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.38 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2019).
10.19+
QCR Holdings, Inc. 2010 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A dated March 22, 2010).
10.20+
QCR Holdings, Inc. 2022 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to QCRH Holdings, Inc.’s Proxy Statement on Form DEF 14A filed with the Commission on April 8, 2022).
10.21+
QCR Holdings Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008).
21.1
Subsidiaries of QCR Holdings, Inc. (filed herewith).
23.1
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm - RSM US LLP (filed herewith).
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) (filed herewith).
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) (filed herewith).
32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
32.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
97.1+
QCR Holdings, Inc. Clawback Policy (filed herewith).
Inline XBRL Interactive data files pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T: (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021; (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, December 31, 2022, and December 31, 2021; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders Equity for the years ended December 31, 2023, December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021; (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2023, December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021; and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as inline XBRL with applicable taxonomy extension information contained in Exhibit 101).
+
A compensatory arrangement.