Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
The Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, as well as disclosures found elsewhere in this report are based upon First Financial Corporation’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires the Corporation to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for credit losses, securities valuation and goodwill. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Allowance for credit losses. The allowance for credit losses (ACL) represents management's estimate of expected losses inherent within the existing loan portfolio. The allowance for credit losses is increased by the provision for credit losses charged to expense and reduced by loans charged off, net of recoveries. The allowance for credit losses is determined based on management's assessment of several factors: reviews and evaluations of specific loans, changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, current economic conditions, nonperforming loans, determination of acquired loans as purchase credit deteriorated, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Loans are individually evaluated when they do not share risk characteristics with other loans in the respective pool. Loans evaluated individually are excluded from the collective evaluation. Management elected the collateral dependent practical expedient upon adoption of ASC 326. Expected credit losses on individually evaluated loans are based on the fair value of the collateral at the reporting date, adjusted for selling costs as appropriate.
Management utilizes a cohort methodology to determine the allowance for credit losses. This method identifies and captures the balance of a pool of loans with similar risk characteristics, as of a particular point in time to form a cohort, then tracks the respective losses generated by that cohort of loans over their remaining life. The cohorts track loan balances and historical loss experience since 2008, and management extends the look back period each quarter to capture all available data points in the historical loss rate calculation. The quantitative component of the ACL involves assumptions that require a significant level of estimation; these include historical losses as a predictor of future performance, appropriateness of selected delay periods, and the reasonableness of the portfolio segmentation.
A historical data set is expected to provide the best indication of future credit performance. Delay periods represent the amount of time it takes a cohort of loans to become seasoned, or incur sufficient attrition through pay downs, renewals, or charge-offs. Portfolio segmentation relates to the pooling of loans with similar risk characteristics, such as industry types, collateral, and consumer purpose. On an annual basis, in the first quarter, management performs a recalibration of the delay periods and portfolio segmentation to determine whether they are reasonable and appropriate based on the information available at that time.
Management considers qualitative adjustments to expected credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the loss estimation process. Where past performance may not be representative of future losses, loss rates are adjusted for qualitative and economic forecast factors. Management uses the peak three consecutive quarter net charge off rate to capture maximum potential volatility over the reasonable and supportable forecast period. Historical losses utilized in setting the qualitative factor ranges are anchored to 2008 and may be supplemented by peer information when needed. The qualitative factor ranges are recalibrated annually to capture recent behavior that is indicative of the credit profile of the current portfolio.
Qualitative factors include items, such as changes in lending policies or procedures, asset specific risks, and economic uncertainty in forward-looking forecasts. Economic indicators utilized in forecasting include unemployment rate, gross domestic product, housing starts, and interest rates. Management uses a two-year reasonable and supportable period across all loan segments to forecast economic conditions. Management believes the two-year time horizon aligns with available industry guidance and various forecasting sources. Economic forecast adjustments are overlaid onto historical loss rates. As such, reversion from forecast rates to historical loss rates is immediate.
The ACL and allowance for unfunded commitments were $39.8 million and $2.0 million, respectively at December 31, 2023, compared to $39.8 million and $2.1 million, respectively at December 31, 2022. The qualitative amount of the reserve decreased $44 thousand to $11.0 million. The quantitative amount is $28.4 million at December 31, 2023, compared to $28.6 million at December 31, 2022. There was a $100 thousand decrease in the allowance for unfunded commitments. See additional discussion of ACL in the Allowance for Credit Losses section below.
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Based on management’s analysis of the current portfolio, management believes the allowance is adequate. Changes in the financial condition of individual borrowers, economic conditions, historical loss experience, or the condition of the various markets in which collateral may be sold may affect the required level of the allowance for credit losses and the associated provision for credit losses. As management monitors these changes, as well as those factors discussed above, adjustments may be recorded to the allowance for credit losses and the associated provision for credit losses in the future.
Securities valuation and potential impairment. Securities available-for-sale are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported separately in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. The Corporation obtains market values from a third party on a monthly basis in order to adjust the securities to fair value. Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values are carried at cost. Additionally, all securities are required to be evaluated for impairment related to credit losses. In evaluating for impairment, management considers the reason for the decline, the extent of the decline, and whether the Corporation intends to sell a security or is more likely than not to be required to sell a security before recovery of its amortized cost. If an entity intends to sell or it is more likely than not it will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the security’s amortized cost is written down to fair value through income. If an entity does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, then the Corporation evaluates whether the decline in fair value has resulted from credit losses or other factors. If this assessment indicates that a credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security is compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis for the security, a credit loss exists and an allowance for credit losses is recorded, limited to the amount that the fair value of the security is less than its amortized basis. Any impairment that has not been recorded through an allowance for credit losses is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. No allowance for credit losses for available-for-sale securities was needed at December 31, 2023.
Goodwill . The carrying value of goodwill requires management to use estimates and assumptions about the fair value of the reporting unit compared to its book value. An impairment analysis is prepared on an annual basis. Fair values of the reporting units are determined by an analysis which considers cash flows streams, profitability and estimated market values of the reporting unit. The majority of the Corporation’s goodwill is recorded at First Financial Bank, N. A.
Management believes the accounting estimates related to the allowance for credit losses, valuation of investment securities and the valuation of goodwill are “critical accounting estimates” because: (1) the estimates are highly susceptible to change from period to period because they require management to make assumptions concerning, among other factors, the changes in the types and volumes of the portfolios, valuation assumptions, and economic conditions, and (2) the impact of recognizing an impairment or credit loss could have a material effect on the Corporation’s assets reported on the balance sheet as well as net income.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - SUMMARY FOR 2023
COMPARISON OF 2023 TO 2022
Net income for 2023 was $60.7 million, or $5.08 per share versus $71.1 million, or $5.82 per share for 2022. The decrease in 2023 net income is primarily due to increased provision for credit losses, as well as decreased non-interest income and increased non-interest expenses, as described in those respective sections in the following pages. Return on average assets at December 31, 2023 decreased 10.64% to 1.26% compared to 1.41% at December 31, 2022.
The primary components of income and expense affecting net income are discussed in the following analysis.
NET INTEREST INCOME
The principal source of the Corporation’s earnings is net interest income, which represents the difference between interest earned on loans and investments and the interest cost associated with deposits and other sources of funding. Net interest income increased in 2023 to $167.3 million compared to $165.0 million in 2022. Total average interest earning assets decreased to $4.56 billion in 2023 from $4.80 billion in 2022. The tax-equivalent yield on these assets increased to 5.12% in 2023 from 3.92% in 2022. Total average interest-bearing liabilities decreased to $3.50 billion in 2023 from $3.61 billion in 2022. The average cost of these interest-bearing liabilities increased to 1.74% in 2023 from 0.51% in 2022.
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The net interest margin increased from 3.54% in 2022 to 3.78% in 2023. Earning asset yields increased 120 basis points while the rate on interest-bearing liabilities increased by 123 basis points.
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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET - AVERAGE BALANCES AND INTEREST RATES
December 31,
2023
2022
2021
Average
Yield/
Average
Yield/
Average
Yield/
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
Balance
Interest
Rate
Balance
Interest
Rate
Balance
Interest
Rate
ASSETS
Interest-earning assets:
Loans (1) (2)
$
3,111,784
190,947
6.14
%
$
2,884,053
147,398
5.11
%
$
2,602,344
128,978
4.96
%
Taxable investment securities
895,120
24,643
2.75
%
981,453
21,014
2.14
%
890,563
13,110
1.47
%
Tax-exempt investments (2)
463,541
16,591
3.58
%
451,228
14,216
3.15
%
387,935
13,544
3.49
%
Cash and due from banks
90,582
1,546
1.71
%
479,854
5,224
1.09
%
726,412
888
0.12
%
Federal funds sold
3,108
124
3.99
%
3,893
106
2.72
%
4,487
42
0.94
%
Total interest-earning assets
4,564,135
233,851
5.12
%
4,800,481
187,958
3.92
%
4,611,741
156,562
3.39
%
Non-interest earning assets:
Premises and equipment, net
67,468
68,911
64,787
Other assets
210,277
216,592
183,589
Less allowance for loan losses
(39,432)
(41,997)
(45,767)
TOTALS
$
4,802,448
$
5,043,987
$
4,814,350
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Transaction accounts
$
2,869,873
42,594
1.48
%
$
3,034,430
13,483
0.44
%
$
2,799,227
2,751
0.10
%
Time deposits
434,943
9,100
2.09
%
483,038
3,260
0.67
%
520,885
5,407
1.04
%
Short-term borrowings
117,235
5,370
4.58
%
83,959
1,243
1.48
%
99,805
387
0.39
%
Other borrowings
82,316
4,071
4.95
%
13,175
273
2.07
%
7,562
252
3.33
%
Total interest-bearing liabilities:
3,504,367
61,135
1.74
%
3,614,602
18,259
0.51
%
3,427,479
8,797
0.26
%
Non interest-bearing liabilities:
Demand deposits
801,316
891,042
717,764
Other
10,193
43,506
71,738
4,315,876
4,549,150
4,216,981
Shareholders' equity
486,572
494,837
597,369
TOTALS
$
4,802,448
$
5,043,987
$
4,814,350
Net interest earnings
$
172,716
$
169,699
$
147,765
Net yield on interest- earning assets
3.78
%
3.54
%
3.20
%
(1)For purposes of these computations, non-accruing loans are included in the daily average loan amounts outstanding.
(2)Interest income includes the effect of tax equivalent adjustments using a federal tax rate of 21%.
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The following table sets forth the components of net interest income due to changes in volume and rate. The table information compares 2023 to 2022 and 2022 to 2021.
2023 Compared to 2022 Increase
2022 Compared to 2021 Increase
(Decrease) Due to
(Decrease) Due to
Volume/
Volume/
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
Volume
Rate
Rate
Total
Volume
Rate
Rate
Total
Interest earned on interest-earning assets:
Loans (1) (2)
$
11,639
$
29,575
$
2,335
$
43,549
$
13,962
$
4,023
$
436
$
18,421
Taxable investment securities
(1,848)
6,006
(528)
3,630
1,338
5,958
608
7,904
Tax-exempt investment securities (2)
388
1,934
53
2,375
2,210
(1,322)
(216)
672
Cash and due from banks
(4,238)
2,966
(2,406)
(3,678)
(301)
7,020
(2,383)
4,336
Federal funds sold
(21)
49
(10)
18
(6)
80
(11)
63
Total interest income
$
5,920
$
40,530
$
(556)
$
45,894
$
17,203
$
15,759
$
(1,566)
$
31,396
Interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities:
Transaction accounts
(731)
31,553
(1,711)
29,111
231
9,687
814
10,732
Time deposits
(325)
6,846
(682)
5,839
(393)
(1,892)
137
(2,148)
Short-term borrowings
493
2,603
1,032
4,128
(61)
1,091
(173)
857
Other borrowings
1,433
379
1,987
3,799
187
(95)
(71)
21
Total interest expense
870
41,381
626
42,877
(36)
8,791
707
9,462
Net interest income
$
5,050
$
(851)
$
(1,182)
$
3,017
$
17,239
$
6,968
$
(2,273)
$
21,934
(1)For purposes of these computations, non-accruing loans are included in the daily average loan amounts outstanding.
(2)Interest income includes the effect of tax equivalent adjustments using a federal tax rate of 21%.
PROVISION FOR CREDIT LOSSES
The provision for credit losses charged to expense is based upon current expected loss and the results of a detailed analysis estimating an appropriate and adequate allowance for credit losses. The analysis is governed by Accounting Standards Codification (ASC 326), implemented in 2020, which used an economic forecast that included the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the provision for credit losses was $7.3 million, an increase of $9.3 million, or 460%, compared to 2022. The negative provision for the first quarter of 2022 was the result of several factors. The first was the annual model recalibration. Each year, in the first quarter, management reviews each model variable to determine if adjustments are necessary to improve the model’s predictability. In the first quarter 2022 the delay periods were shortened to pick up more recent losses. Also, the qualitative factor maximum scorecard ranges for certain cohorts were reduced, which reduced the reserve. Secondly, management removed two qualitative factors that were deemed no longer applicable. The first was related to acquisition uncertainty, which management believes to have seasoned adequately that it was no longer warranted. The second was related to the CECL model and the related uncertainty. The uncertainty surrounded the newness of the model and potential regulatory scrutiny. Following two exam cycles, management elected to remove the factor. Also, during the quarter, historical loss rates continued to decline, which lowers the required reserve. The historical loss rate declined in most segments. Based on management’s analysis of the current portfolio, an evaluation that includes consideration of changes in CECL model assumptions of credit quality, economic conditions, and loan composition, management believes the allowance is adequate.
Net charge-offs for 2023 were $7.3 million as compared to $6.5 million for 2022 and $2.6 million for 2021. Non-accrual loans, increased to $23.6 million at December 31, 2023 from $8.5 million at December 31, 2022. The increase in non-accrual loans is due to a commercial relationship that was downgraded. Loans past due 90 days and still on accrual decreased to $960 thousand compared to $1.1 million at December 31, 2022. On July 12, 2022, the Corporation sold seven classified non-farm nonresidential commercial loans, which were acquired in the two acquisitions in 2019 and 2021, with a total principal balance of $14.9 million. The net recovery on the sale of $361 thousand includes the charge-off of the seven loans of $2,145 thousand, netted by the $2,072 thousand reserve on those loans, previously
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charged off in the period, and the $434 thousand unamortized discount remaining from the acquisitions. As the related charge offs were previously reserved for and related to acquired loans, the increase in net charge offs for 2022 does not have a significant impact on the future expected losses.
NON-INTEREST INCOME
Non-interest income of $42.7 million decreased $4.0 million from the $46.7 million earned in 2022. The change in non-interest income from 2022 to 2023 was primarily driven by a $4.0 million legal settlement received in February, 2022. The Corporation does not expect this item to reoccur.
NON-INTEREST EXPENSES
Non-interest expenses increased to $130.2 million in 2023 from $126.0 million in 2022. The increase in non-interest expenses is consistent with the rate of increases in prior years and considered normal with the growth of our business.
INCOME TAXES
The Corporation’s federal income tax provision was $11.8 million in 2023 compared to $16.7 million in 2022. The overall effective tax rate in 2023 of 16.3% decreased as compared to a 2022 effective rate of 19.0%. The decrease in effective tax rate is due to a $1 million increase in tax credit investments, as well as an increase in tax exempt interest income.
COMPARISON OF 2022 TO 2021
Net income for 2022 was $71.1 million, or $5.82 per share versus $53.0 million, or $4.02 per share for 2021. The increase in 2022 net income is primarily due to increased interest rates and growth in earning assets .
Net interest income increased $21.6 million in 2022 compared to 2021. The provision for credit losses decreased $4.5 million from $2.5 million in 2021 to a negative provision of $2.0 million in 2022.
Non-interest income increased $4.6 million and non-interest expenses increased $8.6 million. The change in non-interest income from 2021 to 2022 was primarily driven by a $4.0 million legal settlement received in February 2022, and a $2.5 million bank owned life insurance mortality payment. The Corporation does not expect these items to reoccur. The year-over-year changes in non-interest expenses are, in part, impacted by the acquisition of Hancock Bancorp in the fourth quarter of 2021.
The provision for income taxes increased $4.1 million from 2021 to 2022 and the effective tax rate decreased to 19.0% in 2022 from 19.2% in 2021. The increase in income tax expense is primarily due to the overall increase in net income before income taxes.
COMPARISON AND DISCUSSION OF 2023 BALANCE SHEET TO 2022
The Corporation’s total assets decreased 2.8% or $138.1 million at December 31, 2023, from a year earlier. Available-for-sale securities decreased $71.3 million at December 31, 2023, from the previous year. Loans, net increased by $100.4 million to $3.13 billion. Deposits decreased $278.8 million while borrowings increased by $95.3 million. Total shareholders’ equity increased $52.7 million to $528.0 million at December 31, 2023. Accumulated other comprehensive income increased $12.9 million primarily due to the market value of the securities portfolio, which reflected a slight increase in securities pricing. In 2023 dividends declared by the Corporation totaled $0.99 per share. There were also 40,496 shares from the treasury with a value of $1.52 million that were contributed to the ESOP plan in 2023 compared to 29,966 shares with a value of $1.45 million in 2022.
Following is an analysis of the components of the Corporation’s balance sheet.
SECURITIES
The Corporation’s investment strategy seeks to maximize income from the investment portfolio while using it as a risk management tool and ensuring safety of principal and capital. During 2023 the portfolio’s balance decreased by 5.4%. Given the performance of the
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market, the Corporation shifted away from purchases to replace maturities in 2023. The average life of the portfolio decreased from 6.9 years in 2022 to 6.5 years in 2023. The portfolio structure will continue to provide cash flows to be reinvested during 2024.
1 year and less
1 to 5 years
5 to 10 years
Over 10 Years
2023
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
Balance
Rate
Balance
Rate
Balance
Rate
Balance
Rate
Total
U.S. government sponsored entity mortgage-backed securities and agencies and U.S. Treasury (1)
$
7,654
3.02
%
$
27,010
3.34
%
$
25,843
3.38
%
$
609,701
2.50
%
$
670,208
Collateralized mortgage obligations (1)
—
—
%
6,291
1.83
%
8,637
2.78
%
165,902
2.43
%
180,830
States and political subdivisions
4,766
3.28
%
30,812
2.84
%
95,840
2.75
%
273,679
2.62
%
405,097
Collateralized debt obligations
—
—
%
—
—
%
3,002
—
%
—
—
%
3,002
TOTAL
$
12,420
3.12
%
$
64,113
2.95
%
$
133,322
2.81
%
$
1,049,282
2.52
%
$
1,259,137
(1) Distribution of maturities is based on the estimated life of the asset.
1 year and less
1 to 5 years
5 to 10 years
Over 10 Years
2022
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
Balance
Rate
Balance
Rate
Balance
Rate
Balance
Rate
Total
U.S. government sponsored entity mortgage-backed securities and agencies (1)
$
5,066
1.91
%
$
22,871
2.05
%
$
37,360
3.91
%
$
666,045
2.44
%
$
731,342
Collateralized mortgage obligations (1)
11
1.66
%
6,473
2.18
%
7,727
2.70
%
189,274
2.47
%
203,485
States and political subdivisions
5,018
3.58
%
31,550
2.80
%
76,442
2.70
%
279,658
2.62
%
392,668
Collateralized debt obligations
—
—
%
—
—
%
—
—
%
2,986
—
%
2,986
TOTAL
10,095
2.74
%
$
60,894
2.45
%
$
121,529
3.07
%
$
1,137,963
2.48
%
1,330,481
(1) Distribution of maturities is based on the estimated life of the asset.
Net unrealized gain/loss on available for sale securities increased $14.8 million from a net unrealized loss of $168.2 million in 2022 to a net unrealized loss of $153.4 million in 2023. The Corporation does not expect realized losses, as there is no intent to sell at a loss.
LOAN PORTFOLIO
Loans outstanding by major category as of December 31 for each of the last five years and the maturities at year end 2023 are set forth in the following analyses.
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
Loan Category
Commercial
$
1,817,526
$
1,798,260
$
1,674,066
$
1,521,711
$
1,584,447
Residential
695,788
673,464
664,509
604,652
682,077
Consumer
646,758
588,539
474,026
479,750
386,006
TOTAL
$
3,160,072
$
3,060,263
$
2,812,601
$
2,606,113
$
2,652,530
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After One
Within
But Within
After Five
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
One Year
Five Years
Years
Total
MATURITY DISTRIBUTION
Commercial, financial and agricultural
$
703,017
$
825,507
$
289,002
$
1,817,526
TOTAL
Residential
695,788
Consumer
646,758
TOTAL
$
3,160,072
Loans maturing after one year with:
Fixed interest rates
$
389,958
$
256,312
Variable interest rates
435,549
32,690
TOTAL
$
825,507
$
289,002
Commercial Real Estate represents $1.3 million of total exposure as of December 31, 2023, and is within regulatory guidance. This exposure is well diversified by geography, real estate type, and industry designation. During the underwriting process, Commercial Real Estate is stressed using a combination of several risk variables, such as interest rate change, cap rate changes, revenue and expense variances, and term changes. Periodic review of this exposure is performed to identify and monitor any potential weaknesses within a specific credit.
ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES
The activity in the Corporation’s allowance for credit losses is shown in the following analysis:
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
Amount of loans outstanding at December 31,
$
3,160,072
$
3,060,263
$
2,812,601
$
2,606,113
$
2,652,530
Average amount of loans by year
$
3,111,784
$
2,884,053
$
2,602,344
$
2,702,225
$
2,270,313
Allowance for credit losses at beginning of year
$
39,779
$
48,305
$
44,076
$
19,943
$
20,436
Loans charged off:
Commercial
966
3,917
2,158
1,097
2,616
Residential
216
657
812
944
1,050
Consumer
14,314
11,132
5,246
6,355
7,007
Total loans charged off
15,496
15,706
8,216
8,396
10,673
Recoveries of loans previously charged off:
Commercial
1,083
2,062
1,069
856
1,092
Residential
292
759
616
657
1,360
Consumer
6,814
6,384
3,884
3,404
3,028
Total recoveries
8,189
9,205
5,569
4,917
5,480
Net loans charged off
7,307
6,501
2,647
3,479
5,193
Provision charged to expense
7,295
(2,025)
2,466
10,528
4,700
CECL adoption
—
—
—
17,084
—
PCD ACL on acquired loans
—
—
4,410
—
—
Balance at end of year
$
39,767
$
39,779
$
48,305
$
44,076
$
19,943
Ratio of net charge-offs during period to average loans outstanding
0.23
%
0.23
%
0.10
%
0.13
%
0.23
%
The allowance is maintained at an amount management believes sufficient to absorb expected losses in the loan portfolio. Monitoring loan quality and maintaining an adequate allowance is an ongoing process overseen by senior management and the loan review function. On at least a quarterly basis, a formal analysis of the adequacy of the allowance is prepared and reviewed by management and the Board of Directors. This analysis serves as a point in time assessment of the level of the allowance and serves as a basis for provisions for credit losses. The loan quality monitoring process includes assigning loan grades and the use of a watch list to identify loans of concern.
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The analysis of the allowance for credit losses includes the allocation of specific amounts of the allowance to individually evaluated loans, generally based on an analysis of the collateral securing those loans. Portions of the allowance are also allocated to loan portfolios, based upon a variety of factors including historical loss experience, trends in the type and volume of the loan portfolios, trends in delinquent and non-performing loans, and economic trends affecting our market, including current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future. These components are added together and compared to the balance of our allowance at the evaluation date. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans decreased to 1.26% at year-end 2023 compared to 1.30% at year-end 2022. Based on management’s analysis of the current portfolio, an evaluation that includes consideration of changes in CECL model assumptions of credit quality, economic conditions, and loan composition, management believes the allowance is adequate. Non-performing loans of $24.6 million at December 31, 2023 increased from $9.6 million at December 31, 2022. The increase in nonperforming loans is due to a commercial relationship that was downgraded.
The table below presents the allocation of the allowance to the loan portfolios at year-end.
Years Ended December 31,
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
Commercial
$
13,264
$
12,949
$
18,883
$
13,925
$
8,945
Residential
14,327
14,568
18,316
19,142
1,302
Consumer
11,797
12,104
10,721
11,009
8,304
Unallocated
379
158
385
—
1,392
TOTAL ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES
$
39,767
$
39,779
$
48,305
$
44,076
$
19,943
NONPERFORMING LOANS
Management monitors the components and status of nonperforming loans as a part of the evaluation procedures used in determining the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. It is the Corporation’s policy to discontinue the accrual of interest on loans where, in management’s opinion, serious doubt exists as to collectability. The amounts shown below represent non-accrual loans and those loans which are past due more than 90 days where the Corporation continues to accrue interest.
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
Non-accrual loans
$
23,596
$
8,481
$
9,590
$
14,213
$
9,535
Accruing loans past due over 90 days
960
1,119
515
2,324
1,610
$
24,556
$
9,600
$
10,105
$
16,537
$
11,145
Ratio of the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of non-performing loans
161.9
%
414.4
%
478.0
%
284.5
%
178.9
%
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The ratio of the allowance for loan losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans was 161.9% at December 31, 2023, compared to 414.4% in 2022. In the footnotes to the financial statements the amount reported for nonperforming loans is the recorded investment which includes accrued interest receivable. The following loan categories comprise significant components of the nonperforming loans at December 31, 2023 and 2022:
2023
2022
Non-accrual loans
Commercial loans
$
18,380
78
%
$
3,481
41
%
Residential loans
2,065
9
%
2,035
24
%
Consumer loans
3,151
13
%
2,965
35
%
$
23,596
100
%
$
8,481
100
%
Past due 90 days or more
Commercial loans
$
4
0
%
$
112
10
%
Residential loans
911
95
%
1,007
90
%
Consumer loans
45
5
%
—
—
%
$
960
100
%
$
1,119
100
%
Management considers the present allowance to be appropriate and adequate to cover expected losses inherent in the loan portfolio based on the current economic environment. However, future economic changes cannot be predicted. Deteriorating economic conditions could result in an increase in the risk characteristics of the loan portfolio and an increase in the potential for credit losses.
DEPOSITS
The information below presents the average amount of deposits and rates paid on those deposits for 2023, 2022 and 2021.
2023
2022
2021
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
Amount
Rate
Amount
Rate
Amount
Rate
Non-interest-bearing demand deposits
$
801,316
$
891,042
$
717,764
Interest-bearing demand deposits
1,440,411
2.15
%
1,511,232
0.65
%
1,309,682
0.15
%
Savings deposits
1,429,462
0.82
%
1,523,198
0.24
%
1,489,545
0.05
%
Time deposits: $100,000 or more
176,453
2.89
%
172,916
1.15
%
214,976
1.36
%
Other time deposits
258,490
1.54
%
310,122
0.41
%
305,909
0.81
%
TOTAL
$
4,106,132
$
4,408,510
$
4,037,876
Deposits decreased 6.86% to $4.1 billion at September 30, 2023 compared to December 31, 2022. The decline was in part driven by a decline in interest bearing public funds checking, and a decline in institutional deposits as a result of a pricing decision. Brokered time deposits decreased to $747 thousand at December 31, 2023, from $8.5 million at December 31, 2022.
The Corporation estimates that uninsured deposits (1) totaled $938.9 million, or 23% of total deposits, at December 31, 2023, compared to $1.27 billion, or 29%, at December 31, 2022. The maturities of certificates of deposit of more than $100 thousand outstanding at December 31, 2023, are summarized as follows:
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
3 months or less
$
49,370
Over 3 through 6 months
78,788
Over 6 through 12 months
101,309
Over 12 months
15,678
TOTAL
$
245,145
(1) Uninsured deposits include the Call Report estimate of uninsured deposits less affiliate deposits, estimated insured portion of servicing deposits, additional structured FDIC coverage and collateral deposits.
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OTHER BORROWINGS
Advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank increased to $108.6 million in 2023 compared to $9.6 million in 2022. The Asset/Liability Committee reviews these funding sources and considers the related strategies on a monthly basis. See Interest Rate Sensitivity and Liquidity below for more information.
CAPITAL RESOURCES
Bank regulatory agencies have established capital adequacy standards which are used extensively in their monitoring and control of the industry. These standards relate capital to level of risk by assigning different weightings to assets and certain off-balance-sheet activity. As shown in the footnote to the consolidated financial statements (“Regulatory Matters”), the Corporation’s subsidiary banking institutions capital exceeds the requirements to be considered well capitalized at December 31, 2023.
First Financial Corporation’s objective continues to be to maintain adequate capital to merit the confidence of its customers and shareholders. To warrant this confidence, the Corporation’s management maintains a capital position which they believe is sufficient to absorb unforeseen financial shocks without unnecessarily restricting dividends to its shareholders. The Corporation’s dividend payout ratio for 2023 and 2022 was 19.4% and 21.7%, respectively. The Corporation expects to continue its policy of paying regular cash dividends, subject to future earnings and regulatory restrictions and capital requirements.
INTEREST RATE SENSITIVITY AND LIQUIDITY
First Financial Corporation has established risk measures, limits and policy guidelines for managing interest rate risk and liquidity. Responsibility for management of these functions resides with the Asset/Liability Committee. The primary goal of the Asset/Liability Committee is to maximize net interest income within the interest rate risk limits approved by the Board of Directors.
Interest Rate Risk: Management considers interest rate risk to be the Corporation’s most significant market risk. Interest rate risk is the exposure to changes in net interest income as a result of changes in interest rates. Consistency in the Corporation’s net interest income is largely dependent on the effective management of this risk. The Asset/Liability position is measured using sophisticated risk management tools, including earnings simulation and market value of equity sensitivity analysis. These tools allow management to quantify and monitor both short-and long-term exposure to interest rate risk. Simulation modeling measures the effects of changes in interest rates, changes in the shape of the yield curve and the effects of embedded options on net interest income. This measure projects earnings in the various environments over the next three years. It is important to note that measures of interest rate risk have limitations and are dependent on various assumptions. These assumptions are inherently uncertain and, as a result, the model cannot precisely predict the impact of interest rate fluctuations on net interest income. Actual results will differ from simulated results due to timing, frequency and amount of interest rate changes as well as overall market conditions. The Committee has performed a thorough analysis of these assumptions and believes them to be valid and theoretically sound. These assumptions are continuously monitored for behavioral changes.
The Corporation from time to time utilizes derivatives to manage interest rate risk. Management continuously evaluates the merits of such interest rate risk products but does not anticipate the use of such products to become a major part of the Corporation’s risk management strategy.
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The table below shows the Corporation’s estimated sensitivity profile as of December 31, 2023. The change in interest rates assumes a parallel shift in interest rates of 100, 200, and 300 basis points. Given a 100 basis point increase in rates, net interest income would decrease 1.28% over the next 12 months and increase 1.33% over the following 12 months. Given a 100 basis point decrease in rates, net interest income would increase 0.74% over the next 12 months and decrease 2.08% over the following 12 months. These estimates assume all rate changes occur overnight and management takes no action as a result of this change.
Basis Point
Percentage Change in Net Interest Income
Interest Rate Change
12 months
24 months
36 months
Down 300
2.45
%
(6.68)
%
(16.82)
%
Down 200
1.54
(4.30)
(11.06)
Down 100
0.74
(2.08)
(5.44)
Up 100
(1.28)
1.33
4.42
Up 200
(5.73)
(0.64)
5.73
Up 300
(8.32)
(0.66)
9.12
Typical rate shock analysis does not reflect management’s ability to react and thereby reduce the effects of rate changes, and represents a worst-case scenario.
Liquidity Risk Liquidity is measured by the bank’s ability to raise funds to meet the obligations of its customers, including deposit withdrawals and credit needs. This is accomplished primarily by maintaining sufficient liquid assets in the form of investment securities and core deposits. The Corporation has $12.4 million of investments that mature throughout the coming 12 months. The Corporation also anticipates $109.9 million of principal payments from mortgage-backed securities. Given the current rate environment, the Corporation anticipates $13.0 million in securities to be called within the next 12 months. The Corporation also has $197.7 million of unused borrowing capacity available with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, $237.5 million available with the Federal Reserve Bank, and $125 million of available fed funds lines with correspondent banks. With these sources of funds, the Corporation currently anticipates adequate liquidity to meet the expected obligations of its customers.
The Corporation also has additional sources of liquidity available through secured and unsecured borrowing capacity. These include upstream correspondents, the Federal Home Loan Bank, and the Federal Reserve Bank.
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS, COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
The Corporation has various financial obligations, including contractual obligations and commitments that may require future cash payments.
The Corporation has obligations on deposits as described in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.
The Corporation has obligations on borrowings as described in Notes 11 and 12 to the consolidated financial statements.
The Corporation has obligations under its pension, supplemental executive retirement plan and post-retirement medical benefits plan as described in Note 16 to the consolidated financial statements.
The Corporation has lease obligations on certain branch properties and equipment as described in Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements.
Commitments: The following table details the amount and expected maturities of significant commitments as of December 31, 2023. Further discussion of these commitments is included in Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements.
Total
Amount
One year
Over One
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
Committed
or less
Year
Commitments to extend credit:
Unused loan commitments
$
729,495
$
286,858
$
442,927
Commercial letters of credit
7,456
7,456
—
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Commitments to extend credit, including loan commitments, standby and commercial letters of credit do not necessarily represent future cash requirements, in that these commitments often expire without being drawn upon.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The information contained in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the preceding pages of this Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference in response to this item.
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Text extracted from the filing as submitted to EDGAR. Formatting, tables and exhibits are simplified for reading; the original document is authoritative for anything you rely on.