Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
The following discussion and analysis of the financial condition and results of operations of Eagle is intended to help investors understand our company and our operations. The financial review is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the related Notes included elsewhere in this report.
Introduction
Eagle Bancorp Montana, Inc. is a bank holding company registered under the Bank Holding Company Act, is incorporated under the laws of Delaware and headquartered in Helena, Montana. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Opportunity Bank of Montana, a Montana state-chartered bank that is a member of the Federal Reserve System, the Company provides commercial and consumer banking services.
The following Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ("MD&A") describes Eagle and its subsidiaries' results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2024 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, and also analyzes our financial condition as of December 31, 2024 as compared to December 31, 2023. Like most banking institutions, our principal business consists of attracting deposits from the general public and the business community and making loans secured by various types of collateral, including real estate and other consumer assets. We are significantly affected by prevailing economic conditions, particularly interest rates, as well as government policies concerning, among other things, monetary and fiscal affairs, housing and financial institutions and regulations regarding lending and other operations, privacy and consumer disclosure. Attracting and maintaining deposits is influenced by a number of factors, including interest rates paid on competing investments offered by other financial and nonfinancial institutions, account maturities, fee structures and levels of personal income and savings. Lending activities are affected by the demand for funds and thus are influenced by interest rates, the number and quality of lenders and regional economic conditions. Sources of funds for lending activities include deposits, borrowings, repayments on loans, cash flows from maturities of investment securities and income provided from operations.
Our earnings depend primarily on our level of net interest income, which is the difference between interest earned on our interest-earning assets, consisting primarily of loans and investment securities, and the interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities, consisting primarily of deposits, borrowed funds, and trust-preferred securities. Net interest income is a function of our interest rate spread, which is the difference between the average yield earned on our interest-earning assets and the average rate paid on our interest-bearing liabilities, as well as a function of the average balance of interest-earning assets compared to interest-bearing liabilities. Also contributing to our earnings is noninterest income, which consists primarily of service charges and fees on loan and deposit products and services, net gains and losses on sale of assets, and mortgage loan service fees. Net interest income and noninterest income are offset by provisions for credit losses, general administrative and other expenses, including salaries and employee benefits and occupancy and equipment costs, as well as by state and federal income tax expense.
The Bank has a strong mortgage lending focus, with a large portion of its loan originations represented by single-family residential mortgages, which has enabled it to successfully market home equity loans, as well as a wide range of shorter-term consumer loans for various personal needs (automobiles, recreational vehicles, etc.). The Bank has also focused on adding commercial loans to our portfolio, both real estate and non-real estate. We have made significant progress in this initiative over the past decade. As of December 31, 2024, commercial real estate loans represented 60.3% of the total loan portfolio, including farmland loans representing 9.6% of the total loan portfolio. Commercial business loans represented 18.3% of the total loan portfolio, including agricultural loans representing 8.8% of the total loan portfolio. The purpose of this diversification is to mitigate our dependence on the residential mortgage market, as well as to improve our ability to manage our interest rate spread. Recent acquisitions have added to our agricultural loans, which generally have shorter maturities and nominally higher interest rates. This has provided additional interest income and improved interest rate sensitivity. The Bank’s management recognizes that fee income will also enable it to be less dependent on specialized lending and it maintains a significant loan serviced portfolio, which provides a steady source of fee income. As of December 31, 2024, we had mortgage servicing rights , net of $15.38 m illion compared to $15.85 million as of December 31, 2023. Gain on sale of loans also provides significant noninterest income in periods of high mortgage loan origination volumes. Such income will be, and has recently been, adversely affected in periods of lower mortgage activity.
Fee income is also supplemented with fees generated from deposit accounts. The Bank has a high percentage of non-maturity deposits, such as checking accounts and savings accounts, which allows management flexibility in managing its spread. Non-maturity deposits and certificates of deposit do not automatically reprice as interest rates rise.
Management continues to focus on improving the Bank's earnings. Management believes the Bank needs to continue to concentrate on increasing net interest margin, other areas of fee income and control operating expenses to achieve earnings growth going forward. Management’s strategy of growing the loan portfolio and deposit base is expected to help achieve these goals as follows: loans typically earn higher rates of return than investments; a larger deposit base should yield higher fee income; increasing the asset base will reduce the relative impact of fixed operating costs. The biggest challenge to the strategy is funding the growth of the statement of financial condition in an efficient manner. Though deposit growth has been steady, it may become more difficult to maintain due to significant competition and possible reduced customer demand for deposits as customers may shift into other asset classes.
Other than short term residential construction loans, we do not offer “interest only” mortgage loans on residential 1-4 family properties (where the borrower pays interest but no principal for an initial period, after which the loan converts to a fully amortizing loan). We also do not offer loans that provide for negative amortization of principal, such as “Option ARM” loans, where the borrower can pay less than the interest owed on their loan, resulting in an increased principal balance during the life of the loan. We do not offer “subprime loans” (loans that generally target borrowers with weakened credit histories typically characterized by payment delinquencies, previous charge-offs, judgments, bankruptcies, or borrowers with questionable repayment capacity as evidenced by low credit scores or high debt-burden ratios) or Alt-A loans (traditionally defined as loans having less than full documentation).
The level and movement of interest rates impacts the Bank’s earnings as well. The Federal Open Market Committee increased the federal funds target rate to 5.50% during the year ended December 31, 2023. The rate decreased to 4.50% during the year ended December 31, 2024.
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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The accounting and financial reporting policies of Eagle are in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and conform to the accounting and reporting guidelines prescribed by bank regulatory authorities. Eagle has identified certain of its accounting policies as “critical accounting policies,” consisting of those related to the allowance for credit losses and goodwill. In determining which accounting policies are critical in nature, Eagle has identified the policies that require significant judgment or involve complex estimates. Eagle’s financial results could differ significantly if different judgments or estimates are used in the application of these policies. The critical accounting policies and related estimates are summarized below.
Allowance for Credit Losses
The allowance for credit losses ("ACL") on loans is a valuation account that is management’s estimate of the amount considered necessary to absorb expected losses in the loan portfolio at the balance sheet date. The allowance is deducted from the loans’ amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the loans and is established through the provision for credit losses. Increases in the allowance are charged against income, and decreases in the allowance are recorded through net income as a reversal of the provision for credit losses.
Quarterly, an assessment is performed of the risks expected in the loan portfolio. A detailed review is conducted for significant loans identified as having weaknesses that do not share common risk characteristics with other loans. The methodology for determining the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses is considered a critical accounting policy by management due to its complexity and the high degree of judgment involved. The primary factors and assumptions considered include loan volume, credit ratings, delinquency status, prepayment speeds, weighted average lives, and other relevant available information from internal and external sources related to past events and historical loss experience. Management uses qualitative judgment to adjust loss rates to reflect management’s assessment of current economic conditions, along with reasonable and supportable forecasts. The allowance is based on information known at the time of the review. Changes in factors underlying the assessment for subsequent evaluations of the loan portfolio could have a material impact on the amount of the allowance that is necessary and the amount of provision to be charged against earnings. See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for further information.
Goodwill
The excess of consideration paid over fair value of net assets acquired for acquisitions is recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested at least annually for impairment or more frequently if events occur or circumstances change that indicate impairment may exist. A goodwill impairment test is performed by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying value. An impairment charge is recorded for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit's fair value. A weighted average of both the market and income approaches is used in valuing the reporting unit’s fair value. Weightings are assigned to the approaches regarding fair value and the sensitivity of other weighting scenarios is considered. The market approach incorporates comparable public company information, valuation multiples and consideration of a market control premium along with data related to comparable observed purchase transactions in the financial services industry. The income approach consists of discounting projected future cash flows, which are derived from internal forecasts and economic expectations for the reporting unit. The significant inputs and assumptions for the income approach include a discount rate and projected earnings of the Company in future years for which there is inherent uncertainty. The sensitivity of a range of reasonable discount rates based on the current economic environment is considered.
During the quarter ended September 30, 2024, management performed a quantitative goodwill impairment test with assistance from a third-party valuation specialist. The interim determination was primarily driven by a revision in the Company's earnings outlook in comparison to budget. The interim goodwill impairment assessment as of August 31, 2024 concluded that goodwill was not impaired. Our quantitative annual impairment tests as of October 31, 2024 and 2023 also did not result in impairment. However, changing economic conditions that may adversely affect the Company's performance, the fair value of its assets and liabilities, or its stock price could result in future impairment. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial condition and results of operations. Management will continue to monitor events that could influence this conclusion in the future. See Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for further information.
The Company's accounting policies and discussion of recent accounting pronouncements is included in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in "Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data".
Financial Condition
December 31, 2024 compared to December 31, 2023
Total assets were$2.10 billion at December 31, 2024, an increase of $27.42 million, or 1.3% from $2.08 billion at December 31, 2023. L oans receivable, n et increased by $ 35.75 million or 2.4% , to $ 1.50 b illion at December 31, 2024 from $1.47 billion at December 31, 2023. However, securities available-for -sale decreased by $ 25.69 million or 8.1% fro m December 31, 2023. Total borrowings decreased $34.66 million to $200.08 million at December 31, 2024, from $234.74 million at December 31, 2023. Total liabilities were $1.93 billion at December 31, 2024, an increase of $21.94 million, or 1.2%, from $1.91 billion at December 31, 2023. Total deposit s increased by $46.03 million or 2.8% to $1.68 billion from $1.64 billion at December 31, 2023. Total shareholders’ equ ity increased by $5.50 million or 3.2% from December 31, 2023.
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Financial Condition Details
Investment Activities
We maintain a portfolio of investment securities, classified as either available-for-sale or held-to-maturity to enhance total return on investments. Our investment securities generally include U.S. government and agency obligations, U.S. treasury obligations, Small Business Administration pools, municipal securities, corporate obligations, mortgage-backed securities (“MBSs”), collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”) and asset-backed securities (“ABSs”), all with varying characteristics as to rate, maturity and call provisions. There were no held-to-maturity investment securities included in the investment portfolio at December 31, 2024 or 2023. All investment securities included in the investment portfolio are available-for-sale. Eagle also has interest-bearing deposits in other banks and federal funds sold, as well as stock in FHLB and FRB. FHLB stock was $7.78 million and $9.19 million at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. FRB stock was $4.13 million for both at December 31, 2024 and 2023.
The following table summarizes investment activities:
December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Fair Value
Percentage of Total
Fair Value
Percentage of Total
Fair Value
Percentage of Total
(Dollars in Thousands)
Securities available-for-sale:
U.S. government and agency obligations
$
5,195
1.78
%
$
6,543
2.06
%
$
2,390
0.68
%
U.S. treasury obligations
46,913
16.03
%
46,815
14.71
51,951
14.86
Municipal obligations
117,877
40.29
%
137,950
43.33
172,849
49.47
Corporate obligations
4,162
1.42
%
3,905
1.23
6,990
2.00
Mortgage-backed securities
28,235
9.65
%
26,753
8.41
29,653
8.48
Collateralized mortgage obligations
82,623
28.24
%
86,568
27.20
82,131
23.50
Asset-backed securities
7,585
2.59
%
9,745
3.06
3,531
1.01
Total securities available-for-sale
$
292,590
100.00
%
$
318,279
100.00
%
$
349,495
100.00
%
Securities available-for-sale were $292.59 million at December 31, 2024, a decrease o f $25.69 million, or 8.1%, from $318.28 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease was due to sales of $14.12 million and maturity, principal payments and call activity of $21.45 million. These decreases were partially offset by $10.98 million in investment purchases. In addition, unrealized losses on securities increased from prior year by $273,000.
The following table sets forth information regarding fair values, weighted average yields and maturities of investments. The yields have been computed on a tax equivalent basis. Maturities are based on the final contractual payment dates and do not reflect the impact of prepayments or early redemptions that may occur.
December 31, 2024
One Year or Less
One to Five Years
Five to Ten Years
After Ten Years
Total Investment Securities
Fair Value
Weighted Average Yield
Fair Value
Weighted Average Yield
Fair Value
Weighted Average Yield
Fair Value
Weighted Average Yield
Fair Value
Approximate Market Value
Weighted Average Yield
(Dollars in Thousands)
Securities available-for-sale:
U.S. government and agency obligations
$
-
$
-
$
263
$
6.28
$
3,200
$
4.76
$
1,732
$
6.98
$
5,195
$
5,195
5.57
%
U.S. treasury obligations
4,932
2.79
26,394
1.34
15,587
$
1.66
-
$
-
46,913
46,913
1.60
Municipal obligations
2,590
2.85
5,627
3.41
50,335
$
2.72
59,325
$
3.22
117,877
117,877
2.81
Corporate obligations
998
3.00
-
-
3,164
$
4.98
-
$
-
4,162
4,162
4.51
Mortgage-backed securities
34
3.40
2,166
3.33
2,499
$
3.38
23,536
$
4.39
28,235
28,235
4.21
Collateralized mortgage obligations
2,388
1.00
3,374
7.34
778
$
3.12
76,083
$
3.72
82,623
82,623
3.72
Asset-backed securities
-
-
-
-
-
-
7,585
$
6.07
7,585
7,585
6.07
Total securities available-for-sale
$
10,942
2.43
%
$
37,824
2.33
%
$
75,563
2.71
%
$
168,261
3.78
%
$
292,590
$
292,590
3.16
%
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Lending Activities
The following table includes the composition of the Bank’s loan portfolio by loan category:
December 31,
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
Amount
Percent of Total
Amount
Percent of Total
Amount
Percent of Total
Amount
Percent of Total
Amount
Percent of Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Real estate loans:
Residential 1-4 family (1)
$
153,721
10.11
%
$
156,578
10.55
%
$
135,947
10.03
%
$
101,180
10.82
%
$
110,802
13.14
%
Residential 1-4 family construction
45,701
3.01
43,434
2.93
59,756
4.41
45,635
4.88
46,290
5.49
Total residential 1-4 family
199,422
13.12
200,012
13.48
195,703
14.44
146,815
15.70
157,092
18.63
Commercial real estate
645,962
42.48
608,691
40.99
539,070
39.76
410,568
43.92
316,668
37.56
Commercial construction and development
124,211
8.17
158,132
10.65
151,145
11.15
92,403
9.88
65,281
7.74
Farmland
146,610
9.64
142,590
9.61
136,334
10.06
67,005
7.17
65,918
7.82
Total commercial real estate
916,783
60.29
909,413
61.25
826,549
60.97
569,976
60.97
447,867
53.12
Total real estate loans
1,116,205
73.41
1,109,425
74.73
1,022,252
75.41
716,791
76.67
604,959
71.75
Other loans:
Home equity
97,543
6.41
86,932
5.86
74,271
5.48
51,748
5.54
56,563
6.71
Consumer
28,513
1.88
30,125
2.03
27,609
2.04
18,455
1.97
20,168
2.39
Commercial
144,039
9.47
132,709
8.94
127,255
9.39
101,535
10.86
109,209
12.95
Agricultural
134,346
8.83
125,298
8.44
104,036
7.68
46,335
4.96
52,242
6.20
Total commercial loans
278,385
18.30
258,007
17.38
231,291
17.07
147,870
15.82
161,451
19.15
Total other loans
404,441
26.59
375,064
25.27
333,171
24.59
218,073
23.33
238,182
28.25
Total loans
1,520,646
100.00
%
1,484,489
100.00
%
1,355,423
100.00
%
934,864
100.00
%
843,141
100.00
%
Deferred loan fees (2)
-
-
(1,745
)
(1,725
)
(2,038
)
Allowance for credit losses (3)
(16,850
)
(16,440
)
(14,000
)
(12,500
)
(11,600
)
Total loans, net
$
1,503,796
$
1,468,049
$
1,339,678
$
920,639
$
829,503
(1) Excludes loans held-for-sale.
(2) Deferred loan fees, net included in individual loan buckets above for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
(3) Allowance for credit losses for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023; allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020.
Loans receivable, net increased $35.75 million, or 2.4%, to $1.50 billion at December 31, 2024 from $1.47 billion at December 31, 2023. Total commercial loans increased $20.38 million, total home equity loans increased $10.61 million, and total commercial real estate loans increased $7.37 million. These increases were slightly offset by decreases in consumer loans of $1.62 million and residential loans of $590,000.
Total loan originations were $607.73 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 . Total residential 1-4 family originations were $271.79 million, which includes $214.32 million of originations of loans held-for-sale. Total commercial originations were $155.11 million. Total commercial real estate originations were $135.55 million. Home equity loan originations totaled $31.63 million. Consumer loan originations totaled $13.65 million. Loans held-for-sale increased by $1.94 million, to $13.37 million at December 31, 2024 from $11.43 million at December 31, 2023 .
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The following table includes the composition of the commercial real estate loan category:
December 31, 2024
(In Thousands)
Non-Owner Occupied
Owner Occupied
Total
Percent of Total CRE
Automotive related
$
-
$
23,738
$
23,738
3.67
%
Bars and restaurants
5,030
15,912
20,942
3.24
Car washes
884
-
884
0.14
Construction and related industries
19,717
13,968
33,685
5.21
Healthcare and social assistance
10,483
13,907
24,390
3.78
Hospitality industry related
-
13,764
13,764
2.13
Hotels and other traveler accommodations
66,702
-
66,702
10.33
Industrial/warehouse
51,168
-
51,168
7.92
Lessors of mini warehouses and self-storage units
16,682
-
16,682
2.58
Lessors of nonresidential buildings
67,782
-
67,782
10.49
Lessors of other real estate property
31,675
-
31,675
4.90
Multifamily
113,789
-
113,789
17.63
Office space
20,553
38,104
58,657
9.08
Other
37,876
25,253
63,129
9.77
Other real estate rental and leasing
6,836
-
6,836
1.06
Real estate leasing activities
-
27,465
27,465
4.25
Wholesale and retail trade
11,969
12,705
24,674
3.82
Total commercial real estate
$
461,146
$
184,816
$
645,962
100.00
%
December 31, 2023
(In Thousands)
Non-Owner Occupied
Owner Occupied
Total
Percent of Total CRE
Automotive related
$
-
$
22,241
$
22,241
3.65
%
Bars and restaurants
5,565
14,954
20,519
3.37
Car washes
10,792
-
10,792
1.77
Construction and related industries
17,530
11,840
29,370
4.83
Healthcare and social assistance
10,206
21,564
31,770
5.22
Hospitality industry related
-
14,756
14,756
2.42
Hotels and other traveler accommodations
58,157
-
58,157
9.55
Industrial/warehouse
43,983
-
43,983
7.23
Lessors of mini warehouses and self-storage units
13,959
-
13,959
2.29
Lessors of nonresidential buildings
63,515
-
63,515
10.44
Lessors of other real estate property
9,778
-
9,778
1.61
Multifamily
86,980
-
86,980
14.29
Office space
20,150
40,657
60,807
9.99
Other
54,556
25,197
79,753
13.11
Other real estate rental and leasing
4,877
-
4,877
0.80
Real estate leasing activities
-
28,998
28,998
4.76
Wholesale and retail trade
14,575
13,861
28,436
4.67
Total commercial real estate
$
414,623
$
194,068
$
608,691
100.00
%
Commercial real estate loans made up $645.96 million or 42.5% of the Bank's total loan portfolio at December 31, 2024, compared to $608.69 million or 41.0% at December 31, 2023. The Bank's commercial real estate loans are primarily permanent loans secured by improved property such as office buildings, retail stores, commercial warehouses, and apartment buildings. The terms and conditions of each loan are tailored to the needs of the borrower and based on the financial strength of the project and any guarantors. Generally, commercial real estate loans originated by the Bank will not exceed 80.0% of the appraised value or the selling price of the property, whichever is less. The Bank's commercial real estate portfolio's average loan-to-value ratio range was 26% to 51% as of December 31, 2024.
The Bank's asset quality with respect to commercial real estate loans has remained strong despite recent economic and market conditions. The Bank has limited exposure in the office space sector, none of which is located in central business districts. Management believes that the Bank has implemented appropriate risk management practices, including regular and ongoing loan reviews, stress tests, and sensitivity analysis. Loan reviews include monitoring past due rates, non-performing trends, concentrations, loan to values, and other qualitative factors. The Bank's loan policy is robust and is updated annually or as needed to meet the risk mitigation and strategic goals of the bank.
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Loan Maturit ies . The following table sets forth the estimated maturity of the loan portfolio of the Bank at December 31, 2024. Balances exclude deferred loan fees and allowance for credit losses. Scheduled principal repayments of loans do not necessarily reflect the actual life of such assets. The average life of a loan is typically substantially less than its contractual terms because of prepayments. In addition, due on sale clauses on loans generally give the Bank the right to declare loans immediately due and payable in the event, among other things, the borrower sells the real property, subject to the mortgage, and the loan is not paid off. All mortgage loans are shown to be maturing based on the date of the last payment required by the loan agreement, except as noted.
Loans having no stated maturity, those without a scheduled payment, demand loans and matured loans, are shown as due within six months.
One Year or Less
After One Year to Five Years
After Five Years to Fifteen Years
After Fifteen Years
Total
Total residential 1-4 family (1)
$
43,100
$
11,271
$
26,302
$
118,749
$
199,422
Total commercial real estate
66,335
40,342
197,651
612,455
916,783
Home equity
9,199
32,444
54,947
953
97,543
Consumer
1,802
20,065
6,296
350
28,513
Total Commercial
109,247
87,915
74,101
7,122
278,385
Total loans (1)
$
229,683
$
192,037
$
359,297
$
739,629
$
1,520,646
(1) Excludes loans held-for-sale
The following table includes loans by fixed or adjustable rates at December 31, 2024 :
Fixed
Adjustable
Total
(Dollars in Thousands)
Due after December 31, 2024
Total residential 1-4 family (1)
$
36,292
$
120,030
$
156,322
Total commercial real estate
125,426
725,022
850,448.00
Home equity
4,513
83,831
88,344.00
Consumer
25,107
1,604
26,711.00
Total commercial
99,405
69,733
169,138.00
Total due after December 31, 2024
290,743
1,000,220
1,290,963
Due in less than one year
100,320
129,363
229,683
Total loans (1)
$
391,063
$
1,129,583
$
1,520,646
Percent of total
25.72
%
74.28
%
100.00
%
(1) Excludes loans held-for-sale
Delinquent Loans. The following table provides information regarding the Bank’s delinquent loans:
December 31, 2024
30-89 Days
90 Days and Greater
Number
Amount
Percentage of Total
Number
Amount
Percentage of Total
(Dollars in Thousands)
(Dollars in Thousands)
Loan type:
Real estate loans:
Residential 1-4 family
9
$
1,326
12.90
%
1
$
623
100.00
%
Commercial real estate
5
5,739
55.84
-
-
0.00
Commercial construction and development
2
951
9.25
-
-
0.00
Farmland
2
54
0.53
-
-
0.00
Other loans:
Home equity
5
382
3.72
-
-
0.00
Consumer
56
195
1.90
-
-
0.00
Commercial
4
1,064
10.35
-
-
0.00
Agricultural
4
566
5.51
0.00
Total
87
$
10,277
100.00
%
1
$
623
100.00
%
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Table of Contents
Nonperforming Assets. The following table sets forth information regarding nonperforming assets:
December 31,
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
(Dollars in Thousands)
Non-accrual loans
Real estate loans:
Residential 1-4 family
$
469
$
297
$
483
$
616
$
684
Residential 1-4 family construction
961
757
-
337
337
Commercial real estate
268
340
350
497
631
Commercial construction and development
2
-
-
-
36
Farmland
190
3,716
143
989
2,245
Other loans:
Home equity
335
182
96
100
94
Consumer
121
60
25
62
151
Commercial
204
27
44
516
537
Agricultural
677
3,016
1,059
1,718
1,542
Accruing loans delinquent 90 days or more
Real estate loans:
Residential 1-4 family
623
-
330
-
34
Residential 1-4 family construction
-
-
-
-
170
Farmland
-
26
-
-
-
Other loans:
Home equity
-
-
-
-
-
Commercial
-
-
746
-
6
Agricultural
-
-
-
-
182
Restructured loans
-
-
4,502
2,224
1,824
Total nonperforming loans
3,850
8,421
7,778
7,059
8,473
Real estate owned and other repossessed property, net
45
5
-
4
25
Total nonperforming assets
$
3,895
$
8,426
$
7,778
$
7,063
$
8,498
Total nonperforming loans to total loans
0.25
%
0.57
%
0.57
%
0.76
%
1.00
%
Total nonperforming loans to total assets
0.18
%
0.41
%
0.40
%
0.49
%
0.67
%
Total nonaccrual loans to total loans
0.21
%
0.57
%
0.24
%
0.59
%
0.74
%
Total nonperforming assets to total assets
0.19
%
0.41
%
0.40
%
0.49
%
0.68
%
Nonaccrual loans as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 inclu de $591,000 and $1,681,000, respectively of acquired loans that deteriorated subsequent to the acquisition date.
During the year ended December 31, 2024 , the Bank sold two real estate owned and other repossessed assets resulting in a net loss of $6,000. There were no subsequent write-downs on real estate owned or other repossessed assets during the year ended December 31, 2024. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Bank sold one real estate owned and other repossessed asset. There were no subsequent write-up on real estate owned and other repossessed assets during the year ended December 31, 2023.
Management, in compliance with regulatory guidelines, conducts an internal loan review program, whereby loans are placed or classified in categories depending upon the level of risk of nonpayment or loss. These categories are special mention, substandard, doubtful or loss. Management utilizes relevant available information to establish an allowance for credit losses on loans. The allowance is measured on a collective pool basis when similar risk characteristics exist. Loans considered to have different risk characteristics that do not fall within any pool will be analyzed individually on a quarterly basis for potential individual reserve requirements. Collateral-dependent loans and nonperforming loans will generally be evaluated individually.
28
Table of Contents
Management’s evaluation of classification of assets and adequacy of the allowance for credit losses is reviewed by the Board on a regular basis and by regulatory agencies as part of their examination process. We also utilize a third-party review as part of our loan classification process. In addition, on an annual basis or more often if needed, the Company formally reviews the ratings of all commercial real estate, real estate construction, and commercial business loans that have a principal balance of $750,000 or more.
The following table reflects our classified assets:
December 31, 2024
Special
Pass
Mention
Substandard
Doubtful
Total
(In Thousands)
Real estate loans:
Residential 1-4 family
$
152,522
$
623
$
576
$
-
$
153,721
Residential 1-4 family construction
44,740
-
961
-
45,701
Commercial real estate
641,858
260
3,844
-
645,962
Commercial construction and development
122,806
-
1,405
-
124,211
Farmland
144,720
1,580
310
-
146,610
Other loans:
Home equity
97,026
115
402
-
97,543
Consumer
28,381
8
124
-
28,513
Commercial
141,992
592
1,455
-
144,039
Agricultural
131,165
2,618
563
-
134,346
Total loans
1,505,099
5,907
9,640
-
1,520,646
Real estate owned/repossessed property, net
45
$
1,520,691
December 31, 2023
Special
Pass
Mention
Substandard
Doubtful
Total
(In Thousands)
Real estate loans:
Residential 1-4 family
$
155,235
$
1,168
$
175
$
-
$
156,578
Residential 1-4 family construction
42,677
-
757
-
43,434
Commercial real estate
600,492
7,860
339
-
608,691
Commercial construction and development
156,056
2,076
-
-
158,132
Farmland
140,848
-
1,742
-
142,590
Other loans:
Home equity
86,735
-
197
-
86,932
Consumer
30,038
18
69
-
30,125
Commercial
129,644
3,006
59
-
132,709
Agricultural
123,542
-
1,756
-
125,298
Total loans
1,465,267
14,128
5,094
-
1,484,489
Real estate owned/repossessed property, net
5
$
1,484,494
Allowance for Credit Losses . The Bank segregates its loan portfolio for credit losses into the following broad categories: residential 1-4 family, commercial real estate, home equity, consumer and commercial. The Bank provides for a general allowance for expected losses in the portfolio in the categories referenced above. General loss percentages which are calculated based on historical analyses and other factors such as volume and severity of delinquencies, local and national economy, underwriting standards and other factors. This portion of the allowance is calculated for expected losses which probably exist as of the evaluation date even though they might not have been identified by the more objective processes used. This is due to the risk of error and/or inherent imprecision in the process. This portion of the allowance is subjective in nature and requires judgments based on qualitative factors which do not lend themselves to exact mathematical calculations such as: trends in delinquencies and nonaccruals; trends in volume; terms and portfolio mix; new credit products; changes in lending policies and procedures; and changes in the outlook for the local and national economy.
At least quarterly, the management of the Bank evaluates the need to establish an allowance for credit losses on specific loans when a finding is made that a loss is estimable and probable. Such evaluation includes a review of all loans for which full collectability may not be reasonably assured and considers, among other matters: the estimated market value of the underlying collateral of problem loans; prior loss experience; economic conditions; and overall portfolio quality.
29
Table of Contents
Provisions for, or adjustments to, estimated losses are included in earnings in the period they are established. At December 31, 2024, w e had $16.85 mil lion in allowance for credit losses. At December 31, 2023 , we had $16.44 million in allowance for loan losses.
While we believe we have established our existing allowance for credit losses in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, there can be no assurance that bank regulators, in reviewing our loan portfolio, will not request that we significantly increase our allowance for credit losses, or that general economic conditions, a deteriorating real estate market, or other factors will not cause us to significantly increase our allowance for credit losses, therefore negatively affecting our financial condition and earnings.
In originating loans, we recognize that credit losses will be experienced and that the risk of loss will vary with, among other things, the type of loan being made, the creditworthiness of the borrower over the term of the loan and, in the case of a secured loan, the quality of the security for the loan.
It is our policy to review our loan portfolio, in accordance with regulatory classification procedures, on at least a quarterly basis.
The following table includes information for allowance for credit losses:
Years Ended
December 31,
2024
2023
2022
(Dollars in Thousands)
Beginning balance
$
16,440
$
14,000
$
12,500
Impact of adopting ASC 326
-
700
-
Provision for credit losses
408
1,666
2,001
Charge-offs
Residential 1-4 Family
(11
)
-
(199
)
Commercial real estate
-
-
-
Home equity
-
-
(32
)
Consumer
(65
)
(50
)
(31
)
Commercial
(10
)
(129
)
(299
)
Recoveries
Residential 1-4 Family
-
195
4
Commercial real estate
18
23
30
Home equity
-
13
-
Consumer
3
3
4
Commercial
67
19
22
Net loan charge-offs (recoveries)
2
74
(501
)
Ending balance
$
16,850
$
16,440
$
14,000
Allowance for credit losses to total loans excluding loans held-for-sale
1.11
%
1.11
%
1.03
%
Allowance for credit losses to total nonperforming loans
437.66
%
195.23
%
179.99
%
Allowance for credit losses to nonaccrual loans
526.56
%
249.96
%
424.50
%
Net charge-offs (recoveries) to average loans outstanding during the period
0.00
%
0.01
%
-0.04
%
Net charge-offs to average loans outstanding for each loan category are considered insignificant for the periods presented in the table above.
The following table presents allocation of the allowance for credit losses by loan category and the percentage of loans in each category to total loans:
December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Amount
Percentage of Allowance to Total Allowance
Loan Category to Total Loans
Amount
Percentage of Allowance to Total Allowance
Loan Category to Total Loans
Amount
Percentage of Allowance to Total Allowance
Loan Category to Total Loans
(Dollars in Thousands)
Real estate loans:
Residential 1-4 family
$
1,911
11.34
%
13.12
%
$
1,866
11.35
%
13.48
%
$
1,472
10.51
%
14.44
%
Commercial real estate
10,907
64.74
60.29
10,691
65.03
61.25
9,037
64.55
60.97
Total real estate loans
12,818
76.08
73.41
12,557
76.38
74.73
10,509
75.06
75.41
Other loans:
Home equity
553
3.28
6.41
540
3.28
5.86
509
3.64
5.48
Consumer
245
1.45
1.88
304
1.85
2.03
342
2.44
2.04
Commercial
3,234
19.19
18.30
3,039
18.49
17.38
2,640
18.86
17.07
Total other loans
4,032
23.92
26.59
3,883
23.62
25.27
3,491
24.94
24.59
Total
$
16,850
100.00
%
100.00
%
$
16,440
100.00
%
100.00
%
$
14,000
100.00
%
100.00
%
30
Table of Contents
Deposits and Other Sources of Funds
Deposits . Deposits are the Company’s primary source of funds. Core deposits are deposits that are more stable and somewhat less sensitive to rate changes. They also represent a lower cost source of funds than rate sensitive, more volatile accounts such as certificates of deposit. We believe that our core deposits are checking, savings, money market and IRA accounts. Based on our historical experience, we include IRA accounts funded by certificates of deposit as core deposits because they exhibit the principal features of core deposits in that they are stable and generally are not rate sensitive. Core deposits were $1.24 billion or 73.7% of the Bank’s total deposits at December 31, 2024 ($1.22 billion or 72.5% excluding IRA certificates of deposit). The presence of a high percentage of core deposits and, in particular, transaction accounts reflects in part due to our strategy to restructure our liabilities to more closely resemble the lower cost of liabilities of a commercial bank. However, a significant portion of our deposits is in certificate of deposit form and there was growth in this area during 2024. This shift to certificate of deposits has added to our overall cost of funds and could continue to in the future.
The following table includes deposit accounts and associated weighted average interest rates for each category of deposits:
December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Weighted
Weighted
Weighted
Percent
Average
Percent
Average
Percent
Average
Amount
of Total
Rate
Amount
of Total
Rate
Amount
of Total
Rate
(Dollars in Thousands)
Noninterest checking
$
419,211
24.94
%
0.00
%
$
418,727
25.61
%
0.00
%
$
468,955
28.68
%
0.00
%
Interest-bearing checking
221,476
13.17
0.18
211,101
12.91
0.05
252,922
15.47
0.11
Savings
210,572
12.52
0.06
230,711
14.11
0.06
273,790
16.74
0.06
Money market
367,094
21.83
1.82
330,274
20.20
1.66
387,947
23.72
1.12
Total
1,218,353
72.46
0.47
1,190,813
72.83
0.40
1,383,614
84.61
0.34
Certificates of deposit accounts:
IRA certificates
21,419
1.27
0.94
22,960
1.40
0.75
24,907
1.52
0.48
Brokered certificates
-
-
0.00
72,168
4.41
5.28
-
0.00
0.00
Other certificates
441,456
26.27
4.41
349,254
21.36
4.04
226,751
13.87
1.51
Total certificates of deposit
462,875
27.54
4.25
444,382
27.17
4.08
251,658
15.39
1.41
Total deposits
$
1,681,228
100.00
%
1.59
%
$
1,635,195
100.00
%
1.45
%
$
1,635,272
100.00
%
0.50
%
Overall deposits increased year over year by $46.03 million. Certificates of deposits increased $18.49 million while savings decreased by $20.14 million. All other categories of deposits increased as follows: money market increased by $36.82 million, interest-bearing checking increased $10.38 million, and noninterest checking increased by $484,000. There was migration during the year from lower yielding deposit accounts to certificates of deposit as consumers shifted funds to higher yielding deposits.
At December 31, 2024 and 2023, the Company held $632.95 million and $618.78 million, respectively, in deposit accounts that met or exceeded the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") requirements of $250,000 and greater. However, the estimated amount of uninsured deposits was approximately $323.12 million or 18.9% of total deposits at December 31, 2024 considering other factors such as joint accounts, deposits collateralized by Bank securities and deposit sharing programs like Intrafi Cash Service.
The following table shows the amount of certificates of deposit with balances of $250,000 and greater by time remaining until maturity as of December 31, 2024:
Balance
$250,000
and Greater
(In Thousands)
3 months or less
$
74,271
Over 3 to 6 months
31,044
Over 6 to 12 months
35,109
Over 12 months
5,229
Total
$
145,653
Our depositors are primarily residents of the state of Montana.
Borrowings . Deposits are the primary source of funds for our lending and investment activities and for general business purposes. However, as the need arises, or in order to take advantage of funding opportunities, we also borrow funds in the form of advances from FHLB of Des Moines to supplement our supply of lendable funds and to meet deposit withdrawal requirements. The Bank has Federal funds lines of credit with PCBB, PNC, TIB and UBB. Eagle has a line of credit with Bell Bank.
Advances from FHLB and other borrowings decreased by $34.81 million to $140.93 million at December 31, 2024 from $175.74 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease was related to an increase in deposits. The weighted average rate for borrowings was 4.72% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 5.48% at December 31, 2023.
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Table of Contents
Other Long-Term Debt. The following table summarizes other long-term debt activity:
December 31,
December 31,
2024
2023
Net
Percent
Net
Percent
Amount
of Total
Amount
of Total
(Dollars in Thousands)
Subordinated debentures fixed at 5.50% to floating, due 2030
$
14,815
$
25.05
$
14,781
$
25.05
Subordinated debentures fixed at 3.50% to floating, due 2032
39,179
66.24
39,063
66.21
Subordinated debentures variable at 3-Month SOFR plus 1.68%, due 2035
5,155
8.71
5,155
8.74
Total other long-term debt, net
$
59,149
100.00
%
$
58,999
100.00
%
Total other long-term de bt was $59.15 million at December 31, 2024 compared t o $59.00 million at December 31, 2023 .
Shareholders’ Equity
Total shareholders’ equity increased by $5.50 million or 3.2%, to $174.77 million at December 31, 2024 from $169.27 million at December 31, 2023. This increase was primarily the result of net income of $9.78 million. This increase was partially offset by dividends paid of $4.54 million.
Analysis of Net Interest Income
The Bank’s earnings have historically depended primarily upon net interest income, which is the difference between interest income earned on loans and investments and interest paid on deposits and any borrowed funds. It is the single largest component of Eagle’s operating income. Net interest income is affected by (i) the difference between rates of interest earned on loans and investments and rates paid on interest-bearing deposits and borrowings (the “interest rate spread”) and (ii) the relative amounts of loans and investments and interest-bearing deposits and borrowings.
The following table includes average balances for financial condition items, as well as interest and dividends and average yields related to the average balances. All average balances are daily average balances. Nonaccrual loans were included in the computation of average balances but have been reflected in the table as loans carrying a zero yield. The yields include the effect of deferred fees and discounts and premiums that are amortized or accreted to interest income or expense.
Year Ended December 31, 2024
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Average
Interest
Average
Interest
Average
Interest
Daily
and
Yield/
Daily
and
Yield/
Daily
and
Yield/
Balance
Dividends
Cost (4)
Balance
Dividends
Cost (4)
Balance
Dividends
Cost (4)
(Dollars in Thousands)
Assets:
Interest earning assets:
Investment securities
$
306,538
$
10,428
3.39
%
$
328,533
$
11,376
3.46
%
$
336,779
$
8,579
2.55
%
FHLB and FRB stock
13,535
1,085
7.99
12,851
727
5.66
6,369
302
4.74
Loans receivable (1)
1,523,384
92,282
6.04
1,436,672
79,423
5.53
1,194,788
60,353
5.05
Other earning assets
6,663
416
6.23
2,671
89
3.33
34,170
228
0.67
Total interest-earning assets
1,850,120
104,211
5.62
1,780,727
91,615
5.14
1,572,106
69,462
4.42
Noninterest-earning assets
241,931
234,859
196,813
Total assets
$
2,092,051
$
2,015,586
$
1,768,919
Liabilities and equity:
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Deposit accounts:
Checking
$
218,175
$
391
0.18
%
$
237,006
$
595
0.25
%
$
244,208
$
173
0.07
%
Savings
212,221
134
0.06
238,695
146
0.06
269,033
128
0.05
Money market
350,431
8,660
2.46
331,199
5,548
1.68
358,122
1,711
0.48
Certificates of deposit
443,313
18,653
4.20
357,573
11,568
3.24
188,954
1,112
0.59
FHLB advances and other borrowings
190,082
10,211
5.36
159,667
8,562
5.36
14,627
514
3.51
Other long-term debt
59,080
2,724
4.60
58,930
2,719
4.61
59,807
2,512
4.2
Total interest-bearing liabilities
1,473,302
40,773
2.76
1,383,070
29,138
2.11
1,134,751
6,150
0.54
Noninterest checking
412,251
439,388
453,841
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities
41,907
34,321
24,672
Total liabilities
1,927,460
1,856,779
1,613,264
Total equity
164,591
158,807
155,655
Total liabilities and equity
$
2,092,051
$
2,015,586
$
1,768,919
Net interest income/interest rate spread (2)
$
63,438
2.86
%
$
62,477
3.04
%
$
63,312
3.88
%
Net interest margin (3)
3.42
%
3.51
%
4.03
%
Total interest earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities
125.58
%
128.75
%
138.54
%
(1) Includes loans held-for-sale.
( 2 ) Interest rate spread represents the difference between the average yield on interest-earning assets and the average rate on interest-bearing liabilities.
( 3 ) Net interest margin represents income before the provision for credit losses (for years ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023) or provision for loan losses (for the year ended December 31, 2022) divided by average interest-earning assets.
( 4 ) For purposes of this table, tax exempt income is not calculated on a tax equivalent basis.
32
Table of Contents
Rate/Volume Analysis
The following table presents the dollar amount of changes in interest income and interest expense for major components of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, information is provided on changes attributable to: (1) changes in volume multiplied by the old rate; (2) changes in rate, which are changes in rate multiplied by the old volume; and (3) changes not solely attributable to rate or volume, which have been allocated proportionately to the change due to volume and the change due to rate.
Year Ended December 31, 2024
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Due to
Due to
Volume
Rate
Net
Volume
Rate
Net
(In Thousands)
Interest earning assets:
Investment securities
$
(762
)
$
(186
)
$
(948
)
$
(210
)
$
3,007
$
2,797
FHLB and FRB stock
39
319
358
307
118
425
Loans receivable (1)
4,794
8,065
12,859
12,218
6,852
19,070
Other earning assets
133
194
327
(210
)
71
(139
)
Total interest earning assets
4,204
8,392
12,596
12,105
10,048
22,153
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Checking
(47)
(157)
(204)
(5)
427
422
Savings
(16)
4
(12)
(14)
32
18
Money market
322
2,790
3,112
(129)
3,966
3,837
Certificates of deposit
2,774
4,311
7,085
992
9,464
10,456
FHLB advances and other borrowings
1,631
18
1,649
5,097
2,951
8,048
Other long-term debt
7
(2
)
5
(37
)
244
207
Total interest-bearing liabilities
4,671
6,964
11,635
5,904
17,084
22,988
Change in net interest income
$
(467
)
$
1,428
$
961
$
6,201
$
(7,036
)
$
(835
)
(1) Includes loans held-for-sale.
Results of Operations
Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 2024 and 2023
Net Income
Eagle’s net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $9.78 million compared to $10.06 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease of $278,000 or 2.8% was driven by a decrease in noninterest income of $4.94 million. This decrease was largely offset by decrease in noninterest expense of $2.78 million and an increase in net interest income after provision for credit losses of $1.90 million. Basic and diluted earnings per common share were $1.25 and $1.24, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2024. Basic and diluted earnings per common share were both $1.29 for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Net Interest Income
Net interest income increased slightly to $63.44 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, from $62.48 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. This increase of $961,000, or 1.5%, was primarily the result of an increase in interest and dividend income of $12.59 million largely offset by an increase in interest expense of $11.63 million.
Interest and Dividend Income
Interest and dividend income was $104.21 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $91.62 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, an increase of $12.59 million, or 13.7%. Interest and fees on loans increased to $92.28 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $79.42 million for the same period ended December 31, 2023. This increase of $12.86 million, or 16.2%, was due in part to an increase in the average yield of loans. The average interest rate earned on loans receivable increased by 51 basis points, from 5.53% for the year ended December 31, 2023, to 6.04% for the year ended December 31, 2024. Interest accretion on purchased loans was $751,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024, which resulted in a 4 basis point increase in net interest margin, compared to $1.01 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, which resulted in a 6 basis point increase in net interest margin. In addition, average balances for loans receivable, including loans-held-for-sale, for the year ended December 31, 2024 were $1.52 billion, compared to $1.44 billion for the year ended December 31, 2023. This represents an increase of $86.71 million, or 6.00% and was due to organic growth. Interest on investment securities available-for-sale decreased by $948,000 or 8.3% period over period, primarily due to the decrease in average balances for investments from $328.53 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, to $306.54 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. In addition, average interest rates earned on investments decreased from 3.46% for the year ended December 31, 2023, to 3.39% for the year ended December 31, 2024.
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Interest Expense
Total interest expense was $40.77 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, increasing from $29.14 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase of $11.63 million was due to an increase of $9.98 million in interest expense on deposits and a net increase of $1.65 million in interest expense on total borrowings. The overall average rate on total deposits was 1.70% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to 1.11% for the year ended December 31, 2023. In addition, the average balance for total deposits was $1.64 billion for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $1.60 billion for the year ended December 31, 2023. The average balance for total borrowings increased from $218.60 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 to $249.16 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase was due to FHLB advances and other borrowings being deployed to fund loan growth. The average rate paid on total borrowings also increased from 5.16% for the year ended December 31, 2023, to 5.18% for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Provision for Credit Losses
Provision for credit losses was $518,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $1.46 million in loan loss provisions for the year ended December 31, 2023. The provision for credit losses for the year ended December 31, 2024 includes a provision for credit losses on loans of $408,000 and a provision for unfunded commitments of $110,000.
Noninterest Income
Total noninterest income was $ 17.78 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 , compared to $22.72 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease of $4.94 million, or 21.7% was primarily due to a decrease in mortgage banking, net of $4.96 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. Mortgage banking, net includes net gain on sale of mortgage loans which decreased $4.66 million to $6.74 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 , compared to $11.40 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 . During the year ended December 31, 2024 , $211.78 million residential mortgage loans were sold compared to $344.31 million in the prior year. In addition, gross margin on sale of mortgage loans has compressed due to increased competition and less volume. For the year ended December 31, 2024, gross margin was 3.18% compared to 3.31% for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Noninterest Expense
Noninterest expense was $ 69.31 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 , compared to $72.09 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 , a decrease of $2.78 million, or 3.9%. The largest driver of the decrease was salaries and employee benefits, decreasing 7.6% or $3.25 million to $39.72 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $42.97 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. This decrease was due to fewer full-time employees in 2024, resulting in lower salaries and lower group health insurance costs. In addition, commissions paid decreased due to lower commissions paid on residential mortgage originations.
Provision for Income Tax es
Provision for income taxes was $1.61 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $1.60 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The effective tax rate was 14.2% for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to 13.7% for the prior year and is due to the increase in proportion of tax-exempt income compared to pretax earnings, as well as tax credits from investments in low-income housing tax projects.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity
The Bank is required by regulation to maintain sufficient levels of liquidity for safety and soundness purposes. Appropriate levels of liquidity will depend upon the types of activities in which the company engages. For internal reporting purposes, the Bank uses policy minimums of 1.0%, and 8.0% for “basic surplus” and “basic surplus with FHLB” as internally defined. In general, the “basic surplus” is a calculation of the ratio of unencumbered short-term assets reduced by estimated percentages of CD maturities and other deposits that may leave the Bank in the next 90 days divided by total assets. “Basic surplus with FHLB” adds to “basic surplus” the additional borrowing capacity the Bank has with the FHLB of Des Moin es. The Bank exceeded those minimum ratios as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.
The Bank’s primary sources of funds are deposits, repayment of loans and mortgage-backed securities, maturities of investments, funds provided from operations, advances from the FHLB of Des Moines and other borrowings. Scheduled repayments of loans and mortgage-backed securities and maturities of investment securities are generally predictable. However, other sources of funds, such as deposit flows and loan prepayments, can be greatly influenced by the general level of interest rates, economic conditions and competition. The Company uses liquidity resources principally to fund existing and future loan commitments. It also uses them to fund maturing certificates of deposit and demand deposit withdrawals, for investment purposes, to meet operating expenses and capital expenditures, for dividend payments, for stock repurchases and to maintain adequate liquidity levels.
Liquidity may be adversely affected by unexpected deposit outflows, higher interest rates paid by competitors, and similar matters. Management monitors projected liquidity needs and determines the level desirable based in part on Eagle’s commitments to make loans and management’s assessment of Eagle’s ability to generate funds.
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The Bank's available borrowing capacity was approximately $404.0 milli on as of December 31, 2024 and $398.50 million as of December 31, 2023.
December 31,
December 31,
2024
2023
Borrowings
Remaining Borrowing
Borrowings
Remaining Borrowing
Outstanding
Capacity
Outstanding
Capacity
(Dollars in Thousands)
Federal Home Loan Bank advances
$
140,930
$
276,664
$
175,737
$
266,017
Federal Reserve Bank discount window
-
27,349
-
32,472
Correspondent bank lines of credit
-
100,000
-
100,000
Total
$
140,930
$
404,013
$
175,737
$
398,489
During the first quarter of 2023, the FRB offered a new Bank Term Funding Program ("BTFP") for eligible depository institutions. The BTFP offers loans of up to one year in length to institutions pledging collateral eligible for purchase by FRB such as U.S. treasuries, agency securities, and mortgage-backed securities. These assets are valued at par. The Company did not utilize the program during 2023. In March of 2024, the Company accessed borrowings through the BTFP. In September of 2024, the Company paid off the borrowings.
Brokered deposits are another source of funding the Bank may utilize from time to time. As of December 31, 2024, the Bank had no brokered certificates and $5.57 m illion in brokered money market deposits. As of December 31, 2023, the Bank had $72.17 million in brokered certificates and $5.28 million in brokered money market deposits. Policy limits for brokered deposits are set at 10% of assets.
In addition to Bank level liquidity management, Eagle must manage liquidity at the parent company level for various operating needs, including the servicing of debt, the payment of dividends on our common stock, share repurchases, payment of general corporate expense, and potential capital infusions into subsidiaries. The primary source of liquidity for Eagle consists of dividends from the Bank, which is governed by certain rules and regulations of the Montana Division of Banking and Financial Institutions and the Federal Reserve, and access to capital markets. Eagle also has a line of credit with a correspondent bank, which was increased from $10.00 million to $15.00 million as of October 30, 2023. There was no outstanding balance for this line of credit at December 31, 2024 or December 31, 2023 . Eagle's ability to receive dividends from the Bank in future periods will depend on several factors, including, without limitation, the Bank's future profits, asset quality, liquidity, and overall condition. In addition, both the Montana Division of Banking and Financial Institutions and Federal Reserve may require approval to pay dividends, based on certain regulatory statutes and limitations.
Eagle presently believes that the sources of liquidity discussed above, including existing liquid funds on hand, are sufficient to meet its anticipated funding needs in the short and long term. However, if economic conditions were to significantly deteriorate, regulatory capital requirements for Eagle or the Bank were to increase as the result of regulatory directives or otherwise, or Eagle were to believe it is prudent to enhance current liquidity levels, then Eagle may seek additional liquidity from external sources.
Comparison of Cash Flow for Years Ended December 31, 2024 and 2023
Net cash provided by the Company’s operating activities, which is primarily comprised of cash transactions affecting net income, was $28.54 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $9.35 million for the prior year. Net cash provided by operating activities was higher for the year ended December 31, 2024 primarily due to changes in loans held-for-sale activity. Mortgage volumes have been impacted by the current interest rate environment.
Net cash used in the Company’s investing activities, which is primarily comprised of cash transactions related to activity in the loan portfolio and investment securities, was $27.80 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $108.21 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024, was impacted by loan originations being higher than loan pay-off and principal payments during the year. Loan origination and principal collection, net was $36.20 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. Pay-off activity has slowed with current interest rate levels. Available-for-sale securities sales and maturities, principal payments and calls were $35.27 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. A portion of the proceeds were used to purchase additional available-for-sale securities totaling $10.98 million. Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was due in part to loan originations being higher than loan pay-off and principal payments during the year. Loan origination and principal collection, net was $130.74 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. In addition, available-for-sale securities purchases were $28.13 million during the year ended December 31, 2023, more than offset by available-for sale securities sales and maturities, principal payments and calls of $66.72 million.
Net cash provided by the Company’s financing activities was $6.27 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $101.59 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024 was driven by an increase in deposits of $46.03 million, largely offset by a decrease in borrowings of $34.81 million. Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was largely impacted by borrowings of $106.34 million utilized to fund continued loan growth.
During the third quarter of 2024, net borrowing activity of $43.43 million was presented in the Form 10-Q statement of cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2024. The total amount for net borrowing activity was reported correctly; however, the specific borrowing line items in the cash flows from financing activities were incorrect. The borrowing activity was presented as follows: $14.26 million net short-term advances on FHLB and other borrowings, $29.17 million advances on long-term FHLB and other borrowings and no payments on long-term FHLB and other borrowings. The correct amounts are as follows: $40.74 million net short-term payments on FHLB and other borrowings, $105.00 million advances on long-term FHLB and other borrowings and $20.83 million payments on long-term FHLB and other borrowings. See ITEM 9A. Controls and Procedures for additional information regarding this matter.
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Capital Resources
At December 31, 2024 , the Bank’s internally determined measurement of sensitivity to interest rate movements as measured by a 200-basis point rise in interest rates scenario, increased the economic value of equity (“EVE”) by 1.7% compared to a decrease of 1.3% at December 31, 2023 . The Bank is within the guidelines set forth by the Board of Directors for interest rate sensitivity.
The Bank’s Tier 1 leverage ratio, as measured under State of Montana and FRB rules, increased from 9.75% as of December 31, 2023 to 10.07% as of December 31, 2024 . The Bank’s strong capital position helps to mitigate its interest rate risk exposure.
As of December 31, 2024 , the Company’s regulatory capital was in excess of all applicable regulatory requirements and is deemed “well capitalized” pursuant to State of Montana and FRB rules. At December 31, 2024 , the Bank’s total capital, Tier 1 capital, common equity Tier 1 capital and Tier 1 leverage ratios amounted to 13.49%, 12.41%, 12.41% and 10.07%, respectively, compared to regulatory requirements of 10.50%, 8.50%, 7.00% and 4.00%, respectively.
Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices
Our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes, which are found in Item 8, have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, which require the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollars without considering the change in the relative purchasing power of money over time and due to inflation. The impact of inflation is reflected in the increased cost of our operations. Interest rates have a greater impact on our performance than do the general levels of inflation. Interest rates do not necessarily move in the same direction or to the same extent as the prices of goods and services.
Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk is the potential for loss of future earnings resulting from adverse changes in the level of interest rates. Interest rate risk results from several factors and could have a significant impact on the Company’s net interest income, which is the Company's primary source of net income. Net interest income is affected by changes in interest rates, the relationship between rates on interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, the impact of interest fluctuations on asset prepayments and the mix of interest-bearing assets and liabilities.
Although interest rate risk is inherent in the banking industry, banks are expected to have sound risk management practices in place to measure, monitor and control interest rate exposures. The objective of interest rate risk management is to contain the risks associated with interest rate fluctuations. The process involves identification and management of the sensitivity of net interest income to changing interest rates.
The ongoing monitoring and management of this risk is an important component of the Company’s asset/liability committee, which is governed by policies established by the Company’s Board that are reviewed and approved annually. The Board delegates responsibility for carrying out the asset/liability management policies to the Bank’s asset/liability committee. In this capacity, the asset/liability committee develops guidelines and strategies impacting the Company’s asset/liability management related activities based upon estimated market risk sensitivity, policy limits and overall market interest rate levels and trends. The Company’s goal of its asset and liability management practices is to maintain or increase the level of net interest income within an acceptable level of interest rate risk. Our asset and liability policy and strategies are expected to continue as described so long as competitive and regulatory conditions in the financial institution industry and market interest rates continue as they have in recent years.
The Bank has established acceptable levels of interest rate risk as follows for an instantaneous and permanent shock in rates: projected net interest income over the next twelve months (i.e. year-1) will not be reduced by more than 20.0% given an immediate increase or decrease in interest rates of up to 400 basis points, and the subsequent twelve months (i.e. year-2) will not be reduced by more than 25.0% given an immediate increase or decrease in interest rates of up to 400 basis points.
The following table includes the Bank's net interest income sensitivity analysis.
Changes in Market
Rate Sensitivity
Policy
Policy
Interest Rates
As of December 31, 2024
Limits
Limits
(Basis Points)
Year 1
Year 2
Year 1
Year 2
+300
-7.8
%
6.9
%
-15.0
%
-20.0
%
+200
-5.2
%
7.0
%
-15.0
%
-15.0
%
+100
-2.3
%
7.8
%
-10.0
%
-10.0
%
-100
1.3
%
5.3
%
-10.0
%
-10.0
%
-200
2.4
%
2.5
%
-15.0
%
-15.0
%
-300
3.9
%
-0.2
%
-15.0
%
-20.0
%
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The following table discloses how the Bank’s economic value of equity (“EVE”) would react to interest rate changes.
Changes in Market
EVE as a % Change from 0 Shock
Interest Rates
As of December 31, 2024
Board Policy
(Basis Points)
Projected EVE
Limit
Maximum % change:
+300
2.2%
-35.0%
+200
1.7%
-30.0%
+100
1.5%
-20.0%
0
0.0%
0.0%
-100
-3.1%
-20.0%
-200
-7.9%
-30.0%
-300
-14.6%
-35.0%
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
As a financial services provider, we routinely are a party to various financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risks, such as commitments to extend credit and unused lines of credit. While these contractual obligations represent our future cash requirements, a significant portion of commitments to extend credit may expire without being drawn upon. Such commitments are subject to the same credit policies and approval process accorded to loans we make.
Commitments are summarized as follows:
December 31,
2024
2023
(In Thousands)
Commitments to extend credit
$
267,623
$
271,552
Letters of credit
7,409
9,457
ITEM 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
This item has been omitted based on Eagle’s status as a smaller reporting company.