Item 1. Business
ITEM 1. BUSINESS.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K (the “Form 10-K” or “Annual Report”) that are not historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("Securities Act"), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended ("Exchange Act"), and are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this Form 10-K the words “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “may,” “will,” “assume,” “should,” “predict,” “could,” “would,” “intend,” “targets,” “estimates,” “projects,” “plans,” and “potential,” and other similar words and expressions of the future, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements, but other statements not based on historical information may also be considered forward-looking, including statements about our future financial and operating results and plans, objectives, and intentions. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of our company to differ materially from any results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the statements, including, but not limited to:
● deterioration in the financial performance and/or condition of borrowers of the Bank, including as a result of the negative impact of inflationary pressures on our customers and their businesses resulting in significant increases in credit losses and provisions for those losses;
● the possibility that our asset quality could decline or that we experience greater loan losses than anticipated;
● increased levels of other real estate owned, primarily as a result of foreclosures;
● the impact of liquidity needs on our results of operations and financial condition;
● competition from financial institutions and other financial service providers;
● the effect of interest rate increases on the cost of deposits;
● unanticipated weakness in loan demand or loan pricing;
● adverse conditions in the national or local economies including in our markets throughout Northern New England;
● changes in consumer spending, borrowing and saving habits;
● the emergence and effects related to a future pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of an infectious disease, including actions taken by governmental officials to curb the spread of such an infectious disease, and the resulting impact on general economic and financial market conditions and on the Company’s and our customers' business, results of operations, asset quality and financial condition;
● the effects of civil unrest, international hostilities or other geopolitical events, including the war in Ukraine and ongoing hostilities in the Middle East ;
● inflation, interest rate, market, and monetary fluctuations;
● lack of strategic growth opportunities or our failure to execute on available opportunities;
● the ability to grow and retain low-cost core deposits and retain large, uninsured deposits;
● our ability to effectively manage problem credits;
● our ability to successfully implement efficiency initiatives on time and with the results projected;
● our ability to successfully develop and market new products and technology;
● the impact of negative developments in the financial industry and United States and global capital and credit markets;
● our ability to retain executive officers and key employees and their customer and community relationships ;
● our ability to adapt to technological changes and to implement new technology effectively;
● the vulnerability of the Bank’s computer and information technology systems and networks, and the systems and networks of third parties with whom the Company or the Bank contract, to unauthorized access, computer viruses, phishing schemes, spam attacks, human error, natural disasters, power loss, and other security breaches and interruptions;
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● changes in the reliability of our vendors, internal control systems or information systems;
● ongoing competition in the labor markets and increased employee turnover;
● the potential impact of climate change;
● our ability to comply with various governmental and regulatory requirements applicable to financial institutions;
● changes in state and federal laws, rules, regulations, or policies applicable to banks or bank holding companies, including regulatory or legislative developments;
● the effects of and changes in trade and monetary and fiscal policies and laws, including the interest rate policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board”);
● adverse impacts (including costs, fines, reputational harm, or other negative effects) from and risks associated with current or future litigation, regulatory examinations, or other legal and/or regulatory actions; and
● general competitive, economic, political, and market conditions, including economic conditions in the local markets where we operate.
Other factors not identified above, including those described in the Annual Report under the headings “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” Most of these factors are difficult to anticipate and are generally beyond our control. You should consider these factors in connection with considering any forward-looking statements that may be made by us. We undertake no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements, to report events or to report the occurrence of unanticipated events unless we are required to do so by law .
GENERAL
Bar Harbor Bankshares (the “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us” or similar terms) is the parent company of Bar Harbor Bank & Trust (the "Bank”), which is the only community bank headquartered in Northern New England with branches in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The Bank is a regional community bank that thinks differently about banking. The Bank provides the technology offerings and capabilities of larger banks, accompanied by access to local decision makers who are acutely focused on their local markets. Having recently celebrated the 137th anniversary of the Bank’s founding, we remain focused on helping our customers achieve their goals as the key to the Bank’s success. With over 450 dedicated professionals and more than 50 locations, we are committed to servicing and building enduring relationships by providing a higher standard of banking. We offer a variety of financial products and services designed around our customers in order to serve their banking and financial needs. Through these efforts, we continue to be a relationship-focused community bank, maintaining our credit quality and serving businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals within our footprint. Our corporate goal is to be one of the most consistently high performing community banks in New England, and our business model is centered on the following:
● Employee and customer experience is the foundation of superior performance, which leads to significant financial benefit to shareholders
● Geography, heritage, and performance are key while remaining true to a community-focused culture
● Commitment to risk management while balancing growth and earnings
● Service and sales driven culture with a focus on core business growth
● Fee income is fundamental to our profitability through trust and treasury management services, customer derivatives, and secondary market mortgage sales
● Investment in processes, products, technology, training, leadership, and infrastructure
● Expansion of our brand and business to deepen market presence
● Opportunity and growth for existing employees while adding catalyst recruits across all levels
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Shown below is a profile and geographical footprint of the Bank as of December 31, 2023:
We serve affluent and growing markets in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont with more than 49 thousand, 48 thousand, and 24 thousand customers, respectively in those states. Within these markets, tourism, agriculture, and fishing industries remain strong and continue to drive economic activity. These core markets have also maintained their strength through diversification into various service industries.
Maine
We have 22 full-service branches in operation and two wealth management offices principally located in the regions of downeast, midcoast, and central Maine, which are generally characterized as rural areas. We also have a commercial loan production office in Portland, Maine. In Maine, we consider our primary market areas to be Hancock, Penobscot, Washington, Kennebec, Knox, and Sagadahoc counties. The economies in these counties are based primarily on tourism, healthcare, fishing and lobstering, agriculture, state government, and small local businesses. They are also supported by a large contingent of retirees.
New Hampshire
We have 21 full-service branches in operation and five wealth management offices in New Hampshire located in the Lake Sunapee, Upper Valley, and Merrimack Valley regions. There are several distinct markets within each of these regions. The towns or cities of Nashua, Manchester, and Concord are considered part of the Merrimack Valley. Nashua, New Hampshire is a regional commercial, entertainment, and dining destination. With its border to Massachusetts, it also enjoys a vibrant high-tech industry and a robust retail industry due in part to New Hampshire’s absence of a sales tax. The Upper Valley region of New Hampshire includes the towns of Lebanon and Hanover, which are home to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and Dartmouth College, respectively. The Lake Sunapee market is a popular year-round recreation and resort area that includes both Lake Sunapee and Mount Sunapee and includes the towns of Claremont, New London, and Newport.
Vermont
We have 10 full-service branches in operation in Vermont. The branches are primarily located in central Vermont within Rutland, Windsor, and Orange counties. These markets are home to many attractions, including Killington Mountain and the city of Rutland. Popular vacation destinations in this region include Woodstock, Brandon, and Ludlow.
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SUBSIDIARY ACTIVITIES
Bar Harbor Bankshares is a legal entity separate and distinct from its first-tier bank subsidiary, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, and its second-tier subsidiaries, Bar Harbor Wealth Management (“BHWM”) and Cottage Street Corporation.
There are two Connecticut statutory trusts for which all of the common stock is owned. These capital trusts are unconsolidated, and their only material asset is a $20.6 million trust preferred security related to the junior subordinated debentures reported in Note 7 – Borrowed Funds of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
Annual, quarterly, and current reports, proxy statements and other information are required to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The SEC maintains a website at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy statements, and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.
The Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, proxy statements, and amendments to those documents filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, are also available free of charge on our website at www.barharbor.bank under the Shareholders Relations link as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC.
Our Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers, Code of Conduct and Business Ethics, Securities and Insider Trading Policy and the charters of our Board of Directors’ audit committee, governance committee, and compensation and human resources committee are also available on our website (www.barharbor.bank) and in print free of charge to any shareholder who requests them. Requests should be sent by mail to our corporate secretary at our executive office. We intend to disclose on our website any amendments or waivers to our Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers or Code of Conduct and Business Ethics that are required to be disclosed pursuant to Item 5.05 of Form 8-K.
Investors should note announcements of material information to investors and others are performed using SEC filings, press releases, and postings on our website (www.barharbor.bank), including news and announcements regarding financial performance, key personnel, brands, and business strategy. Information posted on the corporate website could be deemed material to investors. Investors are encouraged to review the information posted on these channels. Updates may be made, from time to time, to the list of channels used to communicate information that could be deemed material, and any such change will be posted on www.barharbor.bank. The information on the website is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part hereof or incorporated into this or any other filings with the SEC.
COMPETITION
Major competitors in market areas include local independent banks, local branches of large regional and national bank affiliates, thrift institutions, savings and loan institutions, mortgage companies, and credit unions.
We effectively compete with other financial institutions by emphasizing quality customer service, making decisions at the local level, maintaining long-term customer relationships, building customer loyalty, and providing products and services designed to address customers’ specific needs. However, no assurance can be provided regarding the ongoing ability to compete effectively with other financial institutions in the future.
No part of the business is materially dependent upon one or a few customers or upon a particular industry segment, the loss of which would have a material adverse impact on our results of operations.
LENDING ACTIVITIES
General
Loans are originated in four basic portfolio categories, which are discussed below. These portfolios include the categories commercial real estate, commercial and industrial, residential real estate and other consumer loans. Loan interest rates and
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other key loan terms are affected principally by our lending policy, asset/liability strategy, loan demand, competition, and the supply of money available for lending purposes. The amount of long-term fixed-rate lending and adjustable-rate lending is monitored according to the Bank’s interest rate management policy. Loans originated are held for investment except for certain residential mortgages that are underwritten with the intention to be sold in the secondary mortgage market.
Loan Portfolio Analysis
The following table sets forth the year-end composition of the loan portfolio in dollar amounts and as a percentage of the portfolio for the years indicated. Further information about the composition of the loan portfolio is contained in Note 3 – Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
2023
2022
(in thousands, except
% of
% of
percentages)
Amount
Total
Amount
Total
Commercial construction
$
154,048
5
%
$
117,577
4
%
Commercial real estate owner occupied
310,015
10
244,814
8
Commercial real estate non-owner occupied
1,144,566
38
1,146,674
40
Tax exempt
43,688
2
42,879
2
Commercial and industrial
310,883
10
297,112
10
Residential real estate
940,334
32
954,968
33
Home equity
87,683
3
90,865
3
Consumer other
7,832
—
7,801
—
Total loans
$
2,999,049
100
%
$
2,902,690
100
%
Commercial Loan Exposure and Industries
All commercial loans are assigned Standard Industrial Classification codes, North American Industry Classification System codes, and state and county codes. The following table summarizes the major industries of the commercial loan portfolio as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
2023
2022
(in thousands, except percentages)
Loans
Total Exposure
% of Total Portfolio
Loans
Total Exposure
% of Total Commerical Portfolio
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing
$
1,018,035
$
1,196,273
52
%
$
946,591
$
1,212,986
51
%
Accommodation and Food Services
334,838
347,588
17
334,053
347,023
18
Health Care and Social Assistance
99,601
109,771
5
105,634
145,361
6
Retail Trade
78,036
94,074
4
61,265
79,401
3
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
55,214
63,052
3
60,815
68,040
3
Wholesale Trade
63,088
110,703
3
55,546
83,696
3
Educational Services
51,512
63,731
3
49,162
61,526
3
Finance and Insurance
59,753
103,444
3
33,148
52,551
2
Manufacturing
44,277
67,221
2
44,672
66,083
2
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
30,914
33,441
2
29,300
31,898
2
Construction
23,086
44,518
1
29,448
49,450
2
Public Administration
35,995
40,669
—
33,769
39,357
2
Transportation and Warehousing
14,424
22,139
—
14,087
16,051
1
All other
54,427
79,691
5
51,566
81,045
2
Total commercial loans
$
1,963,200
$
2,376,315
100
%
$
1,849,056
$
2,334,468
100
%
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Within our non-owner-occupied commercial real estate portfolio (considered “Commercial construction” and “Commercial Real Estate Non-Owner Occupied” above), the top 10 loans represent approximately 13.9% of total commercial outstanding. The average loan size in the CRE segment is approximately $2.0 million. Delinquencies within the segment were nominal at less than 0.01% as a percentage of the total segment as of December 31, 2023. Maximum loan-to-value ratios at origination are governed by established policy and regulatory guidelines. The weighted average loan-to-value ratio for the top 10 loans within the non-owner occupied segment was 61.54% as of December 31, 2023. The top 10 office loans represent approximately 9% of the total commercial real estate segment exposure inclusive of unfunded commitments and 10% of the outstanding balances. The weighted average loan-to-value for the top ten loans within the office segment is 60.37%. Our total commercial portfolio has a pass rating of 93%, included in the commercial portfolio are office loans of $245.8 million which have a pass rating of 86%.
Maturity and Sensitivity of the Loan Portfolio
The following table shows contractual maturities of selected loan categories at December 31, 2023. The contractual maturities do not reflect premiums, discounts, deferred costs, or prepayments.
Within
1 to 5
5 to 15
After
(in thousands, except percentages)
1 year
Years
Years
15 Years
Total
% of Total
Contractual Maturity
Commercial construction
$
6,850
$
72,019
$
71,924
$
3,255
$
154,048
5
%
Commercial real estate owner occupied
8,979
79,518
204,259
17,259
310,015
10
Commercial real estate non-owner occupied
73,288
473,200
584,110
13,968
1,144,566
38
Tax exempt
5,663
6,575
22,523
8,927
43,688
2
Commercial and industrial
69,179
116,484
79,481
45,739
310,883
10
Residential real estate
1,294
33,448
144,362
761,230
940,334
32
Home equity
2,512
5,438
11,050
68,683
87,683
3
Consumer other
1,791
5,446
430
165
7,832
—
Total loans
$
169,556
$
792,128
$
1,118,139
$
919,226
$
2,999,049
100
%
Repricing Date
Fixed-rate
99,517
359,198
579,268
637,546
1,675,529
56
Floating or adjustable rate
70,039
432,930
538,871
281,680
1,323,520
44
Total loans
$
169,556
$
792,128
$
1,118,139
$
919,226
$
2,999,049
100
%
Problem Assets
There is a preference to work with borrowers to resolve problems rather than proceeding to foreclosure. For commercial loans, this may result in a period of forbearance or restructuring of the loan, which is normally done at current market terms and may not result in a “troubled” loan designation. For residential mortgage loans, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”) guidelines are followed to attempt a restructuring that will enable owner-occupants to remain in their home. However, if these processes fail to result in a performing loan, foreclosure or other proceedings will be initiated no later than the 120th day of a delinquency, as necessary, to minimize any potential loss. Management reports on delinquent loans and non-performing assets to the Company’s Board of Directors monthly through the Board Risk Committee. Loans are generally removed from accruing status when they reach 90 days delinquent, except for certain loans which are well secured and in the process of collection. Loan collections are managed by a combination of the related business units and the managed assets group.
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The following table presents the problem assets for the years indicated:
(in thousands, except ratios)
2023
2022
Non-accruing loans:
Commercial construction
$
—
$
—
Commercial real estate owner occupied
103
439
Commercial real estate non-owner occupied
340
550
Tax exempt
—
—
Commercial and industrial
363
207
Residential real estate
3,908
4,385
Home equity
809
963
Consumer other
5
5
Total loans
5,528
6,549
Other real estate owned
—
—
Total non-performing assets
$
5,528
$
6,549
Total non-performing loans/total loans
0.18
%
0.23
%
Total non-performing assets/total assets
0.14
0.17
Allowance for Credit Losses
Our loan portfolio is regularly reviewed by management to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses (“ACL”). The allowance represents management’s estimate of inherent losses that are probable and estimable as of the date of the financial statements. The ACL is comprised of reserves measured on a collective (pool) basis based on a lifetime loss-rate model when similar risk characteristics exist. Loans that do not share risk characteristics are evaluated on an individual basis, generally larger non-accruing commercial loans. The ACL is discussed further in Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
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The following table presents an analysis of the ACL for the years indicated:
(in thousands, except ratios)
2023
2022
Balance at beginning of year
$
25,860
$
22,718
Charged-off loans:
Commercial construction
—
—
Commercial real estate owner occupied
—
—
Commercial real estate non-owner occupied
—
—
Tax exempt
—
—
Commercial and industrial
(664)
(8)
Residential real estate
(8)
(84)
Home equity
(12)
(7)
Consumer other
(289)
(267)
Total charged-off loans
(973)
(366)
Recoveries on charged-off loans:
Commercial construction
—
—
Commercial real estate owner occupied
142
120
Commercial real estate non-owner occupied
—
—
Tax exempt
—
—
Commercial and industrial
149
341
Residential real estate
31
106
Home equity
6
25
Consumer other
19
12
Total recoveries on charged-off loans
347
604
Net (charge-offs) recoveries
(626)
238
Provision for credit losses
2,908
2,904
Balance at end of year
$
28,142
$
25,860
Ratios:
Net charge-offs (recoveries)/average loans
0.02
%
(0.01)
%
Recoveries/charged-off loans
36
165
Allowance for credit losses/total loans
0.94
0.89
Allowance for credit losses/non-accruing loans
509
395
The following table presents year-end data for the approximate allocation of the ACL by loan categories at the dates indicated. For each loan category, the table shows the amount of the allowance allocated to that category as a percentage of the outstanding loans in that category. The allocation of the allowance to each category is not indicative of future losses and does not restrict the use of any of the allowance to absorb losses in any category.
2023
2022
% Allocated to
% Allocated to
(in thousands, except ratios)
Amount
Total Loans
Amount
Total Loans
Commercial construction
$
4,261
0.14
%
$
2,579
0.09
%
Commercial real estate owner occupied
2,863
0.10
2,189
0.08
Commercial real estate non-owner occupied
9,443
0.31
9,341
0.32
Tax exempt
119
—
93
—
Commercial and industrial
3,259
0.11
3,493
0.12
Residential real estate
7,352
0.25
7,274
0.25
Home equity
767
0.03
811
0.03
Consumer other
78
—
80
—
Total
$
28,142
0.94
%
$
25,860
0.89
%
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INVESTMENT SECURITIES ACTIVITIES
The objective of the investment portfolio is to provide liquidity when loan demand is high, and to absorb excess funds when demand is low. The securities portfolio also provides a medium for certain interest rate risk measures intended to maintain an appropriate balance between interest income from loans and total interest expense. For additional information, see Item 7A of this Annual Report.
We invest in what we believe to be high-quality investment-grade securities. Investment decisions are made in accordance with the investment and treasury policies and include consideration of risk, return, duration, and portfolio concentrations. For further discussion on investments see Note 2 – Securities Available for Sale of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The following table presents the amortized cost and fair value of securities available for sale for the years indicated:
2023
2022
Amortized
Amortized
(in thousands)
Cost
Fair Value
Cost
Fair Value
Debt Securities:
Obligations of US Government-sponsored enterprises
$
2,021
$
1,992
$
2,692
$
2,660
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations:
US Government-sponsored enterprises
223,602
193,282
249,838
215,027
US Government agency
85,005
74,213
90,318
79,606
Private label
60,888
59,051
64,056
60,154
Obligations of states and political subdivisions thereof
119,857
110,168
121,939
107,737
Corporate bonds
105,552
95,868
102,505
94,332
Total
$
596,925
$
534,574
$
631,348
$
559,516
The following table presents the amortized cost and weighted average yields of securities available for sale at by maturity:
December 31, 2023
Within
Over 1 Year
Over 5 Years
Over
(in thousands, except ratios)
1 Year
to 5 Years
to 10 years
10 Years
Total
Debt Securities:
Obligations of US Government-sponsored enterprises
$
—
$
83
$
513
$
1,425
$
2,021
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations:
US Government-sponsored enterprises
634
3,447
17,225
202,296
223,602
US Government agency
6
240
3,272
81,487
85,005
Private label
—
—
27,234
33,654
60,888
Obligations of states and political subdivisions thereof
—
450
2,127
117,280
119,857
Corporate bonds
3,038
49,939
47,569
5,006
105,552
Total
$
3,678
$
54,159
$
97,940
$
441,148
$
596,925
Weighted Average Yield
5.51
%
5.67
%
5.28
%
2.68
%
3.40
%
DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Interest swap derivatives are utilized to minimize fluctuations in earnings and cash flows caused by interest rate volatility either in the form of interest rate swaps on wholesale funding and variable rate loans designated as cash flow hedges or
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partial interest rate hedges on securities accounted for as fair value hedges. For further discussion on derivatives see Note 10 – Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Derivative products are offered in the form of interest rate swaps and interest rate caps, to commercial loan customers to facilitate their risk management strategies. An interest rate swap is entered into with a customer, while at the same time an offsetting interest rate swap with another financial institution is entered into to offset. These interest rate swap transactions allow customers to effectively fix the interest rate on their loans. Customer loan derivative income is recognized for the upfront fee paid by the customer at origination. These swaps are designated as economic hedges and transactions are cleared through arrangements with third-party financial institutions.
Mortgage banking activities result in two types of derivative instruments. Interest rate lock commitments are offered to residential loan customers, to allow them the ability to lock into a fixed interest rate prior to closing, for loans intended to sell are classified as non-hedging derivatives. To offset this risk, an offsetting forward sale commitment may be entered into with national financial institutions to purchase the loans selected for sale under a best efforts or mandatory delivery contract accounted for as an economic hedge.
Floating-rate fundings are certain hedging transactions and certain products, such as floating-rate loans and mortgages, determine the applicable interest rate or payment amount by reference to a benchmark rate, such as the secured interbank overnight financing rate (“SOFR”), or to an index, basket or other financial metric.
DEPOSIT ACTIVITIES
A variety of deposit products to consumers, businesses and institutional customers with a wide range of interest rates and terms are offered. Deposits consist of interest-bearing and non-interest-bearing demand accounts, savings accounts, money market deposit accounts, and certificates of deposit. Deposits are solicited primarily in the market area, excluding brokered deposits. Competitive pricing policies, marketing and customer service to attract and retain deposits are relied upon.
Customer-related deposit fees are a significant source of fee income and principally derived from debit card interchange fees earned from transaction fees that merchants pay whenever a customer uses a debit card to make a purchase. Customer deposit fees are also earned from a variety of deposit accounts with various fee schedules and terms, which are designed to meet the customer’s financial needs. Other depositor-related fee services provided to customers include ATMs, remote deposit capture, ACH origination, wire transfers, internet bill pay, and other cash management services.
Pricing of deposits is managed in keeping with the asset/liability management, liquidity and profitability objectives, subject to market competitive factors. Based on our experience, deposits are relatively stable sources of funds. Despite this stability, the ability to attract and maintain these deposits and rates are significantly affected by market conditions.
The following table presents the average balances and weighted average rates for deposits for the years indicated:
2023
2022
(in thousands, except ratios)
Average Balance
Percent of Total
Weighted Average Rate
Average Balance
Percent of Total
Weighted Average Rate
Demand
$
618,685
20
%
—
%
$
679,081
22
%
—
%
NOW
900,035
30
0.98
907,123
30
0.16
Savings
594,959
20
0.39
657,591
21
0.10
Money market
406,759
13
2.48
466,426
15
0.63
Time deposits
532,981
17
3.19
366,404
12
0.61
Total
$
3,053,419
100
%
1.25
%
$
3,076,625
100
%
0.24
%
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Estimated uninsured non-maturity deposits were $525.3 million as of December 31, 2023 and $617.7 million as of December 31, 2022. Estimated uninsured time deposits were $60.0 million and $27.9 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The following table presents the scheduled maturities of time deposits greater than $250 thousand at December 31, 2023:
(in thousands, except ratios)
Amount
Three months or less
$
33,583
Over 3 months through 6 months
31,522
Over 6 months through 12 months
85,198
Over 12 months
4,122
Total
$
154,425
BORROWING ACTIVITIES
Borrowings may be utilized as an alternative source of funds which can be invested at a positive interest rate spread when additional capacity to fund loan demand is desired or when asset/liability management goals are met to diversify funding sources and enhance interest rate risk management.
Borrowings historically have included advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston ("FHLB"), securities sold under repurchase agreements, and a correspondent bank unsecured line of credit. Advances may be obtained from the FHLB by collateralizing the advances with certain loans and investment securities. These advances may be made pursuant to several different credit programs, each of which has its own interest rate, range of maturities and call features.
We also have subordinated notes, junior subordinated debenture and other sources of liquidity that are fully described in Note 7 – Borrowed Funds of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
RETAIL BROKERAGE SERVICES
Bar Harbor Financial Services principally serves the brokerage needs of individuals ranging from first-time purchasers to sophisticated investors. It also offers a line of life insurance, annuity, and retirement products, as well as financial planning services. These products are not deposits, are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) or any other government agency, are not guaranteed by the Bank or any affiliate, and may be subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal.
Bar Harbor Financial Services is a branch office of Osaic Institutions, Inc., (“Osaic”) a full-service third-party broker-dealer, conducting business under the assumed business name “Bar Harbor Financial Services.” Osaic is an independent registered broker-dealer and is not affiliated with the Company or its subsidiaries. Osaic was formed by a group of member banks, and is one of the largest providers of third-party investment and insurance services to banks and their customers in New England. Through Osaic, the expertise, capabilities, and experience of a well-established third-party broker-dealer is obtained in a cost effective manner.
TRUST MANAGEMENT SERVICES
The Bank has one wholly-owned subsidiary, BHWM, that provides a comprehensive array of fiduciary services including trust and estate administration, wealth advisory services, and investment management services to individuals, businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and municipalities. As a New Hampshire-chartered trust company, BHWM is subject to New Hampshire laws applicable to trust companies and fiduciaries. Professional advisors help individuals and families structure accounts that will meet their long-term financial needs. To many wealth management clients, the effective transfer of wealth to future generations is of paramount importance. The trust services act as a fiduciary for various types of trusts and serves as the investment manager for these accounts. Outside of trust services, they also provide 401(k) plan services, financial, estate and charitable planning, investment management, family office, municipal and tax services. The
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employees include credentialed investment professionals with extensive experience. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, trust management services had total assets under management (“AUM”) of $2.5 billion and $2.3 billion, respectively.
HUMAN CAPITAL
We are very fortunate to have a diverse, committed team throughout Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont who are capable, determined and empowered to drive our company forward. As of December 31, 2023, we had 462 full time equivalent employees. None of our colleagues are represented by unions. All employment decisions are based on talent and potential for growth. Our ability to attract and retain diverse, top-tier talent while sustaining and deepening the current relationships is critical to maintaining a best-in-class customer and colleague experience. The opportunity for personal and professional development is a critically important focus of ours and one that helps us retain top talent. We are keenly aware of our ability to be a positive impact in the communities we serve, as such we are committed to supporting, developing, and encouraging colleague engagement with their communities.
We invest in our employees and continuously encourage them to build the skills they need to become an even more valuable team member. Opportunities are provided for colleagues to take on challenging and intriguing work to advance their career goals and transition into new roles as the banking industry evolves. In addition, we provide colleagues with access to a variety of programs developed to align with the knowledge, skills and capabilities that are critical to our organization’s success both now and in the future.
Attracting, retaining, and rewarding high-performing talent is key to our success. Our total rewards program is designed to recognize and reward top talent and keep colleagues engaged effectively. A critical component of our total rewards program is compensation. Our compensation strategy is deeply rooted in a pay for performance philosophy. The intent of this strategy is to align colleague contributions and rewards with the success of the organization. We participate in several market studies, including peers in the banking industry, to ensure competitive pay, benefits, and programs. Annual merit increases align with market data and performance to ensure fair and equitable practices are adhered to. Incentive programs are a meaningful component of colleague compensation and are tied to both company and individual performance. To complement these programs, colleagues are also able to provide and receive recognition through our online portal, Bar Harbor Connect. When recognized colleagues receive points that they can then redeem for rewards of their choice such as gift cards, logo items, and concert tickets.
Beyond compensation, our total rewards program underscores our commitment to colleague’s health and well-being. We offer comprehensive benefit packages, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and several other voluntary programs. We also contribute to employee-owned health savings accounts and utilize our wellness program to encourage colleagues to stay fit physically and mentally. The retirement savings programs include a 401(k) plan with a generous company match that vests immediately, along with an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) that allows colleagues to be owners of the company at a reduced price. ESPP provides a benefit to our colleagues while also encouraging them to think and make decisions like shareholders.
Providing work-life balance choices results in our colleagues’ making more meaningful contributions in the workplace. We have a generous paid time off program as well as paid volunteer time to support this. In addition, we offer Flexible Work Arrangements, which offers options such as fully remote, partially remote, condensed workweeks, and flexible hours. The flexibility of these various arrangements allows colleagues to manage their work-life needs while continuing to deliver stellar results in the workplace.
Embracing unique perspectives and supporting inclusivity and diversity are at the core of who we are. We strive to understand the unique opportunities and challenges that our customers and colleagues face. Our commitment to racial and social equity is ingrained in our guiding principles and allows us to work together to foster an inclusive and equitable work environment.
Serving the needs of all of the members of our communities also remains an important part of our commitment and strategy. For more than 137 years, the Bank has contributed to the economic health and vitality of the communities we serve. We are proud that our employees are involved in the communities in which we live and work. Each year, colleagues volunteer countless hours of their time on community projects and serve on nonprofit boards. In addition to these efforts, we have
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provided charitable donations to more than 450 community organizations across the Northern New England states of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
REGULATION AND SUPERVISION
As a bank holding company, the Company is regulated under the federal Bank Holding Company Act (“BHC Act”) and is subject to examination and supervision by the Federal Reserve Board. The Federal Reserve Board requires the Company to file various reports and also may conduct an examination of the Company.
The Company is also under the jurisdiction of the SEC and is subject to the disclosure and regulatory requirements of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act. The Company’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange American exchange (“NYSE American”) under the trading symbol “BHB,” and is subject to the rules of NYSE American for listed companies.
As a Maine-chartered financial institution, the Bank is subject to supervision, regular examination, and regulation by the Maine Bureau of Financial Institutions ("BFI") and the FDIC as its primary federal regulator and as its deposit insurer. The Bank’s deposits are insured by the FDIC in accordance with applicable federal laws and regulations. The prior approval of the BFI and the FDIC is required, among other things, for the Bank to assume deposits or engage in any merger, consolidation, purchase or sale of all or substantially all of the assets of any bank. The prior approval of the FDIC is required, and the prior approval of the BFI may be required, for the Bank to establish or relocate a branch office.
BHWM, a New Hampshire chartered non-depository trust company and an indirect subsidiary of the Bank, is subject to supervision, regular examination, and regulation by the New Hampshire Banking Department. On April 30, 2022, Bar Harbor Trust Services, which was a Maine chartered non-depository trust company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank, merged with and into BHWM (formerly named Charter Trust Company).
In accordance with NH RSA 383-C:5-502, BHWM’s Capital Plan requires minimum capital of $1.0 million to be invested in accordance with NH RSA 564-B:9-902. As of December 31, 2023, BHWM’s total capital was $16.8 million and it had liquidation reserves of $504 thousand held in a money market account. BHWM also had operating reserves of $15.7 million held primarily at the Bank. As of December 31, 2023, BHWM had an appropriate liquidation reserve, minimum capital in excess of statutory requirements, and all funds were held in accordance with prudent investor standards of NH RSA 564-B:9-902 and as required by NH RSA 383-C:5-502.
Any change in applicable laws or regulations could have a material adverse impact on the operations and financial performance of the Company and the Bank. In addition, the Company and the Bank are affected by the monetary and fiscal policies of the United States Government, including the Federal Reserve Board. In view of changing conditions in the national economy and in the financial markets, it is impossible for management to accurately predict future changes in monetary policy or the effect such changes may have on the business or financial condition of the Company and the Bank.
Certain Laws and Regulations Applicable to the Company
The BHC Act and other federal laws subject bank holding companies to particular restrictions on the types of activities in which the Company may engage, and to a range of supervisory requirements and activities, including regulatory enforcement actions for violations of laws and regulations. Below is a summary of certain provisions of the BHC Act and certain other laws and regulations applicable to the Company. These laws or regulations may be amended or changed by Congress or through other governmental or legal processes, which could have a material effect on the results of the Company.
Permitted Activities
Generally, bank holding companies are prohibited under the BHC Act from engaging in non-banking activities, or acquiring direct or indirect control of any company engaged in non-banking activities. The Federal Reserve Board has allowed by regulation some exceptions based on activities closely related to banking including: (i) making or servicing loans; (ii) performing certain data processing services; (iii) providing discount brokerage services; (iv) acting as fiduciary,
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investment or financial advisor; and (v) acquiring a savings and loan association whose direct and indirect activities are limited to those permitted for bank holding companies. The Federal Reserve Board has the authority to require a bank holding company to terminate an activity or terminate control of or liquidate or divest certain subsidiaries or affiliates when the Federal Reserve Board believes the activity or the control of the subsidiary or affiliate constitutes a significant risk to the financial safety, soundness, or stability of any of its banking subsidiaries.
A bank holding company that qualifies and elects to become a financial holding company is permitted to engage in additional activities that are financial in nature or incidental or complementary to financial activity. The Company currently has no plans to make a financial holding company election.
Safe and Sound Banking Practices
Bank holding companies and their non-banking subsidiaries are prohibited from engaging in activities that represent unsafe and unsound banking practices. For example, under certain circumstances the Federal Reserve Board’s Regulation Y requires a holding company to give the Federal Reserve Board prior notice of any redemption or repurchase of its own equity securities if the consideration to be paid, together with the consideration paid for any repurchases during the preceding 12 months, is equal to 10% or more of the company’s consolidated net worth. The Federal Reserve Board may oppose the transaction if it believes that the transaction would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice or would violate a regulation. As another example, a holding company is prohibited from impairing its subsidiary bank’s safety and soundness by causing the bank to make funds available to non-banking subsidiaries or their customers if the Federal Reserve Board believes it not prudent to do so. The Federal Reserve Board has the power to assess civil money penalties for knowing or reckless violations, if the activities leading to a violation caused a substantial loss to a depository institution. Potential penalties are as high as $1,000,000 for each day the activity continues.
Dividends
Dividends from the Bank are the Company’s principal source of cash revenues. The Company’s earnings and activities are affected by federal and state legislation, regulations, local legislative and administrative bodies, and decisions of courts in the jurisdictions in which business is conducted. These include limitations on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends to the Company and the Company’s ability to pay dividends to its shareholders. It is the policy of the Federal Reserve Board that bank holding companies should pay cash dividends on common stock only out of income available over the past year and only if prospective earnings retention is consistent with the organization’s expected future needs and financial condition. The policy provides that bank holding companies should not maintain a level of cash dividends that undermines the bank holding company’s ability to serve as a source of strength to its banking subsidiary. Consistent with such policy, a banking organization should have comprehensive policies on dividend payments that clearly articulate the organization’s objectives and approaches for maintaining a strong capital position and achieving the objectives of the policy statement.
The FDIC has the authority to use its enforcement powers to prohibit a bank from paying dividends if, in its opinion, the payment of dividends would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice. Federal law also prohibits the payment of dividends by a bank that will result in the bank failing to meet its applicable capital requirements on a pro forma basis. Maine law requires the approval of the BFI for any dividend that would reduce a bank’s capital below prescribed limits.
Source of Strength
In accordance with Federal Reserve Board policy, the Company is expected to act as a source of financial and managerial strength to the Bank. Section 616 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank Act”) codifies the requirement that bank holding companies serve as a source of financial strength to their subsidiary depository institutions. Under this policy, the bank holding company is expected to commit resources to support its bank subsidiary, including at times when the bank holding company may not be in a financial position to provide it. As discussed below, the Company could be required to guarantee the capital plan of the Bank if it becomes undercapitalized for purposes of banking regulations. Any capital loans by a bank holding company to its subsidiary bank are subordinate in right of payment to deposits and to certain other indebtedness of such subsidiary bank. The BHC Act provides that, in the event of
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a bank holding company’s bankruptcy, any commitment by the bank holding company to a federal bank regulatory agency to maintain the capital of a bank subsidiary will be assumed by the bankruptcy trustee and entitled to priority of payment.
Anti-tying Restrictions
Bank holding companies and their affiliates are prohibited from tying the provision of services, such as extensions of credit, to other services offered by a bank holding company or its affiliates.
Mergers & Acquisitions
The BHC Act, the federal Bank Merger Act, the laws of the State of Maine applicable to financial institutions and other federal and state statutes regulate acquisitions of banks and their holding companies. The BHC Act generally limits acquisitions by bank holding companies to banks and companies engaged in activities that the Federal Reserve Board has determined to be so closely related to banking as to be a proper incident thereto. The BHC Act requires every bank holding company to obtain the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board before (i) acquiring more than 5% of the voting stock of any bank or other bank holding company, (ii) acquiring all or substantially all of the assets of any bank or bank holding company, or (iii) merging or consolidating with any other bank holding company.
In reviewing applications seeking approval of merger and acquisition transactions, the bank regulatory authorities generally consider, among other things, the competitive effect and public benefits of the transactions, the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of the combined organization (including the capital position of the combined organization), the applicant’s performance record under the federal Community Reinvestment Act (see Community Reinvestment Act included in Item I), fair housing laws and the effectiveness of the subject organizations in combating money laundering activities.
Limitations on Acquisitions of the Company’s Common Stock
The federal Change in Bank Control Act prohibits a person or group of persons from acquiring “control” of a bank holding company unless the appropriate federal bank regulator has been notified and has not objected to the transaction. Under a rebuttable presumption established by the federal bank regulator, the acquisition of 10% or more of a class of voting securities of a bank holding company with a class of securities registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act would constitute the acquisition of control of a bank holding company. In addition, the BHC Act prohibits any company from acquiring control of a bank or bank holding company without first having obtained the approval of the federal bank regulator. Among other circumstances, under the BHC Act, a company has control of a bank or bank holding company if the company owns, controls or holds with power to vote 25% or more of a class of voting securities of the bank or bank holding company, controls in any manner the election of a majority of directors or trustees of the bank or bank holding company, or the federal bank regulator has determined, after notice and opportunity for hearing, that the company has the power to exercise a controlling influence over the management or policies of the bank or bank holding company.
Transactions with Affiliates
The holding company and the Bank are considered “affiliates” of each other under the Federal Reserve Act, and transactions between a bank and its affiliates are subject to certain restrictions, under Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act and the Federal Reserve Board’s implementing Regulation W. Generally, Sections 23A and 23B: (i) limit the extent to which an insured depository or its subsidiaries may engage in covered transactions (a) with an affiliate (as defined in such sections) to an amount equal to 10% of such institution’s capital and surplus, and (b) with all affiliates, in the aggregate to an amount equal to 20% of such capital and surplus; and (ii) require all transactions with an affiliate, whether or not covered transactions, to be on terms substantially the same, or at least as favorable to the institution or subsidiary, as the terms provided or that would be provided to a non-affiliate. The term “covered transaction” includes the making of loans, purchase of assets, issuance of a guarantee and other similar types of transactions.
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State Law Restrictions
As a Maine corporation, the Company is subject to certain limitations and restrictions under applicable Maine corporate law. For example, state law restrictions in Maine include limitations and restrictions relating to indemnification of directors, distributions and dividends to shareholders, transactions involving directors, officers or interested shareholders, maintenance of books, records, and minutes, and observance of certain corporate formalities. Further, as a Maine financial institution holding company, the Company is also subject to certain requirements and restrictions under applicable Maine banking law.
Capital Adequacy and Prompt Corrective Action
In July 2013, the Federal Reserve Board, the FDIC and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency issued final rules (the “Capital Rules”) that established the current capital framework for U.S. banking organizations. The Capital Rules generally implement the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision’s December 2010 final capital framework referred to as “Basel III” for strengthening international capital standards. In addition, the Capital Rules implement certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act, including the requirements of Section 939A to remove references to credit ratings from the federal banking agencies’ rules. The Capital Rules substantially revised the risk-based capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies and their depository institution subsidiaries. The risk based capital guidelines are designed to make regulatory capital requirements sensitive to differences in risk profiles among banks and bank holding companies, to account for off-balance sheet exposures and to minimize disincentives for holding liquid, low-risk assets.
The Capital Rules: (i) require a capital measure called “Common Equity Tier 1” (“CET1”) and related regulatory capital ratio of CET1 to risk-weighted assets; (ii) specify that Tier 1 capital consists of CET1 and “Additional Tier 1 capital” instruments meeting certain revised requirements; (iii) mandate that most deductions/adjustments to regulatory capital measures be made to CET1 and not to the other components of capital; and (iv) expand the scope of the deductions from and adjustments to capital as compared to existing regulations. The Capital Rules revised the definitions and the components of regulatory capital and impacted the calculation of the numerator in banking institutions’ regulatory capital ratios.
The Capital Rules prescribe a standardized approach for risk weightings, generally ranging from 0% for U.S. government and agency securities to 600% for certain equity exposures, resulting in higher risk weights for a variety of asset classes.
Pursuant to Section 38 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (“FDI Act”), federal banking agencies are required to take “prompt corrective action” should an insured depository institution fail to meet certain capital adequacy standards. At each successive lower capital category, an insured depository institution is subject to more restrictions and prohibitions, including restrictions on growth, restrictions on interest rates paid on deposits, restrictions or prohibitions on payment of dividends and restrictions on the acceptance of brokered deposits. Furthermore, if an insured depository institution is classified in one of the undercapitalized categories, it is required to submit a capital restoration plan to the appropriate federal banking agency, and the holding company must guarantee the performance of that plan. Based upon its capital levels, a bank that is classified as well-capitalized, adequately capitalized, or undercapitalized may be treated as though it were in the next lower capital category if the appropriate federal banking agency, after notice and opportunity for hearing, determines that an unsafe or unsound condition, or an unsafe or unsound practice, warrants such treatment.
For purposes of Section 38 of the FDI Act, for an insured depository institution to be classified as well-capitalized, it must have a:
(i) total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10%,
(ii) Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 8%,
(iii) CET1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 6.5%, and
(iv) leverage ratio of at least 5%.
In order to be classified as “well-capitalized” under the relevant regulatory framework, the Company must, on a consolidated basis, have a:
(i) total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10%, and
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(ii) Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 6%.
Both the Bank and the Company have always maintained regulatory capital ratios above the levels to be considered quantitatively well-capitalized. For information regarding the regulatory capital ratios of the Bank and the Company as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, see the discussion under the section captioned Capital Resources included in Item 7 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Annual Report and Note 12 – Shareholders’ Equity and Earnings Per Common Share of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other Significant Banking Regulations Applicable to the Bank
Deposit Insurance
The Bank’s deposit accounts are fully insured by the Deposit Insurance Fund ("DIF") of the FDIC up to the deposit insurance limits set forth in applicable law and regulations.
The FDIC uses a risk-based assessment system that imposes insurance premiums based upon a risk matrix that accounts for a bank’s capital level and supervisory rating (CAMELS rating). The risk matrix uses different risk categories distinguished by capital levels and supervisory ratings. The base for deposit insurance assessments is consolidated average assets less average tangible equity. Assessment rates are calculated using formulas that take into account the risk of the institution being assessed. The FDIC may increase or decrease the assessment rate schedule in order to manage the DIF to prescribed statutory target levels. An increase in the risk category for the Bank or in the assessment rates could have an adverse effect on the Bank’s and consequently the Company’s earnings. The FDIC may terminate deposit insurance if it determines the institution involved has engaged in or is engaging in unsafe or unsound banking practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition, or has violated applicable laws, regulations or orders.
Consumer Financial Protection
The Company is subject to a number of federal and state consumer protection laws that govern its relationship with its customers. These laws include, for example, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Truth in Lending Act, the Truth in Savings Act, the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, the Expedited Funds Availability Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, the Fair Housing Act, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the Right to Financial Privacy Act, the Service Members Civil Relief Act and these federal laws’ respective state law counterparts, as well as state usury laws and laws regarding unfair and deceptive acts and practices. These and other federal laws, among other things, require disclosures of the cost of credit and terms of deposit accounts, provide substantive consumer rights, prohibit discrimination in credit transactions, regulate the use of credit report information, provide financial privacy protections, prohibit unfair, deceptive and abusive practices, restrict the Bank’s ability to raise interest rates and subject the Bank to substantial regulatory oversight. Violations of applicable consumer protection laws can result in significant potential liability from litigation brought by customers, including actual damages, restitution and attorneys’ fees.
Further, the CFPB has broad rulemaking authority for a wide range of consumer financial laws that apply to all banks, including, among other things, the authority to prohibit “unfair, deceptive or abusive” acts and practices. Abusive acts or practices are defined as those that (i) materially interfere with a consumer’s ability to understand a term or condition of a consumer financial product or service; or (ii) take unreasonable advantage of: (a) a lack of understanding on the part of the consumer of the material risks, costs, or conditions of the product or service; (b) the inability of the consumer to protect the interests of the consumer in selecting or using a consumer financial product or service; or (c) the reasonable reliance by the consumer on a covered person to act in the interests of the consumer.
Neither the Dodd-Frank Act nor the individual consumer financial protection laws prevent states from adopting stricter consumer protection standards.
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Brokered Deposit Restrictions
Under the FDIC Improvement Act, banks may be restricted in their ability to accept brokered deposits, depending on their classification. “Well-capitalized” institutions are permitted to accept brokered deposits, but all banks that are not well- capitalized could be restricted from accepting such deposits. The Bank is currently well-capitalized and not restricted from accepting brokered deposits.
Community Reinvestment Act
The Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 (“CRA”), requires depository institutions to assist in meeting the credit needs of their market areas consistent with safe and sound banking practice. Under the CRA, each depository institution is required to help meet the credit needs of its market areas by, among other things, providing credit to low- and moderate-income individuals and communities. These factors are also considered in evaluating mergers, acquisitions and applications to open a branch or facility. The applicable federal regulators regularly conduct CRA examinations to assess the performance of financial institutions and assign one of four ratings to the institution’s records of meeting the credit needs of its community. During its last examination, the Bank received a CRA rating of “satisfactory”.
Insider Credit Transactions
Section 22(h) of the Federal Reserve Act (the “FRA”) and its implementing Regulation O, restricts loans to directors, executive officers, and principal shareholders (“insiders”). Under Section 22(h), loans to insiders and their related interests may not exceed, together with all other outstanding loans to such persons and affiliated entities, the institution’s total capital and surplus. Loans to insiders above specified amounts must receive the prior approval of the Board of Directors. Further, under Section 22(h) of the FRA, loans to directors, executive officers and principal shareholders must be made on terms substantially the same as offered in comparable transactions to other persons, except that such insiders may receive preferential loans made under a benefit or compensation program that is widely available to the bank’s employees and does not give preference to the insider over the employees. Section 22(g) of the FRA places additional limitations on loans to executive officers. A violation of these restrictions may result in the assessment of substantial civil monetary penalties on the affected bank or any officer, director, employee, agent or other person participating in the conduct of the affairs of that bank, the imposition of a cease and desist order, and other regulatory sanctions.
Safety and Soundness
Under the FDI Act, each federal banking agency has prescribed, by regulation, non-capital safety and soundness standards for institutions under its authority. These standards cover internal controls, information and internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate exposure, asset growth, compensation, fees and benefits, such other operational and managerial standards as the agency determines to be appropriate, and standards for asset quality, earnings and stock valuation. An institution that fails to meet these standards must develop a plan acceptable to the agency, specifying the steps that the institution will take to meet the standards. Failure to submit or implement such a plan may subject the institution to regulatory sanctions.
Financial Privacy
Section V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act ("GLBA") and its implementing regulations require all financial institutions, including the Company and the Bank and the Bank’s subsidiaries, to adopt privacy policies, restrict the sharing of nonpublic customer data with non-affiliated parties at the customer’s request, limit the reuse of certain consumer information received from non-affiliated financial institutions, and establish procedures and practices to protect customer data from unauthorized access. In addition, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (“FCRA”), as amended by the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 (the "FACT Act”), includes many provisions affecting the Company, Bank, and/or their affiliates, including provisions concerning obtaining consumer reports, furnishing information to consumer reporting agencies, maintaining a program to prevent identity theft, sharing of certain information among affiliated companies, and other provisions. The FACT Act requires entities subject to FCRA to notify their customers if they report negative information about them to a credit bureau or if they are granted credit on terms less favorable than those generally available. The CFPB and the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) have extensive rulemaking authority under the FACT Act, and the
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Company and the Bank are subject to the rules that have been promulgated under the FACT Act, including rules requiring financial institutions with covered accounts (e.g. consumer bank accounts and loans) to develop, implement, and administer an identity theft protection program, as well as rules regarding limitations on affiliate marketing and implementation of programs to identify, detect and mitigate certain identity theft red flags. The Company has developed policies and procedures for itself and its subsidiaries, including the Bank, and believes it is in compliance with all privacy, information sharing, and notification provisions of the GLBA and the FACT Act. The Bank is also subject to data security standards, privacy and data breach notice requirements, primarily those issued by the FDIC, as well as under state laws.
Anti-Money Laundering Initiatives and the USA Patriot Act
A major focus of governmental policy on financial institutions over the last two decades has been combating money laundering and terrorist financing. The USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 (“USA Patriot Act”), substantially broadened the scope of United States anti-money laundering laws and regulations by imposing significant new compliance and due diligence obligations, creating new crimes and penalties and expanding the extra-territorial jurisdiction of the United States. The U.S. Treasury Department has issued a number of regulations that apply various requirements of the USA Patriot Act to financial institutions such as the Bank. These regulations impose obligations on financial institutions to maintain appropriate policies, procedures and controls to detect, prevent and report money laundering and terrorist financing and to verify the identities of their customers. Financial institutions are also prohibited from entering into specified financial transactions and account relationships and must use enhanced due diligence procedures in their dealings with certain types of high-risk customers and implement a written customer identification program. Financial institutions must take certain steps to assist government agencies in detecting and preventing money laundering and report certain types of suspicious transactions. Regulatory authorities routinely examine financial institutions for compliance with these obligations, and failure of a financial institution to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, or to comply with all of the relevant laws or regulations, can have serious legal and reputational consequences for the institution.
Office of Foreign Assets Control Regulation
The United States has imposed economic sanctions that affect transactions with designated foreign countries, nationals and others. These are typically known as the “OFAC” rules based on their administration by the U.S. Treasury Department Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”). The OFAC-administered sanctions targeting countries take many different forms. Generally, however, they contain one or more of the following elements: (i) restrictions on trade with or investment in a sanctioned country, including prohibitions against direct or indirect imports from and exports to a sanctioned country and prohibitions on “U.S. persons” engaging in financial transactions relating to making investments in, or providing investment-related advice or assistance to, a sanctioned country; and (ii) a blocking of assets in which the government or specially designated nationals of the sanctioned country have an interest, by prohibiting transfers of property subject to U.S. jurisdiction (including property in the possession or control of U.S. persons). Blocked assets (e.g., property and bank deposits) cannot be paid out, withdrawn, set off or transferred in any manner without a license from OFAC. The Company is responsible for, among other things, blocking accounts of, and transactions with, such targets and countries, prohibiting unlicensed trade and financial transactions with them and reporting blocked transactions after their occurrence. Failure to comply with these sanctions could have serious legal and reputational consequences.
Guidance on Sound Compensation Policies
The Dodd-Frank Act requires publicly traded companies to give shareholders a non-binding vote on named executive officer compensation at least every three years (the so-called “say-on-pay vote”) and on so-called “golden parachute” payments in connection with approvals of mergers and acquisitions. In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act requires publicly traded companies to give shareholders a non-binding vote, at least once every six years, on how frequently to hold the “say on pay” vote.
The Dodd-Frank Act also requires the federal banking agencies and the SEC to establish joint regulations or guidelines prohibiting incentive-based payment arrangements at specified regulated entities with at least $1 billion in total consolidated assets that encourage inappropriate risks by providing an executive officer, employee, director or principal shareholder with excessive compensation, fees, or benefits that could lead to material financial loss to the entity. The
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federal banking agencies and the SEC most recently proposed such regulations in 2016, but the regulations have not yet been finalized. If the regulations are adopted in the form initially proposed, they will restrict the manner in which executive compensation is structured.
Changing Regulatory Structure and Future Legislation and Regulation
Congress may enact further legislation that affects the regulation of the financial services industry, and state legislatures may enact further legislation affecting the regulation of financial institutions. Federal and state regulatory agencies also periodically propose and adopt changes to their regulations or change the manner in which existing regulations are applied. The Company cannot predict the substance or impact of pending or future legislation or regulations, or the application thereof, although enactment of the proposed legislation could impact the regulatory structure under which the Company operates and may significantly increase costs, impede the efficiency of internal business processes, require an increase in regulatory capital, require modifications to the Company’s business strategy, and limit the Company’s ability to pursue business opportunities in an efficient manner. A change in statutes, regulations or regulatory policies applicable to the Company or any of its subsidiaries could have a material effect on its business.
Other Laws and Regulations
The Company is not only subject to federal laws applicable to it, it is also subject to the rules and regulations of the various federal agencies charged with the responsibility of implementing these federal laws.