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Form 10-Q NBT BANCORP INC For: Mar 31

May 11, 2015 2:48 PM EDT


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D. C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
 
(Mark One)
  QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2015.
OR
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ________ to ________.
 
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 0-14703
 
NBT BANCORP INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
 
DELAWARE
 
16-1268674
(State of Incorporation)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
 
 
 
52 SOUTH BROAD STREET, NORWICH, NEW YORK 13815
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
 
Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code: (607) 337-2265
 
None
(Former Name, Former Address and Former Fiscal Year, if Changed Since Last Report)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  No
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes    No
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check One):
 
Large accelerated filer
Accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes   No
 
As of April 30, 2015, there were 44,050,601 shares outstanding of the Registrant's common stock, $0.01 par value per share.
 


NBT BANCORP INC.
FORM 10-Q--Quarter Ended March 31, 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1
Financial Statements
 
     
 
3
     
 
4
     
 
5
     
 
6
     
 
7
     
 
9
     
Item 2
39
     
Item 3
55
     
Item 4
55
     
PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1
56
Item 1A
 
Item 2
56
Item 3
56
Item 4
56
Item 5
56
Item 6
57
 
58
 
59


Item 1 – FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
NBT Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
   
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)
  
  
     
   
 
 
 
March 31
   
December 31
 
   
2015
   
2014
 
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
       
 Assets
 
   
 
Cash and due from banks
 
$
133,727
   
$
139,635
 
Short-term interest bearing accounts
   
8,936
     
7,001
 
Securities available for sale, at fair value
   
1,071,654
     
1,013,171
 
Securities held to maturity (fair value $461,224 and $454,994, respectively)
   
456,773
     
454,361
 
Trading securities
   
8,265
     
7,793
 
Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank stock
   
27,762
     
32,626
 
Loans
   
5,623,023
     
5,595,271
 
Less allowance for loan losses
   
65,359
     
66,359
 
Net loans
   
5,557,664
     
5,528,912
 
Premises and equipment, net
   
88,150
     
89,258
 
Goodwill
   
263,634
     
263,634
 
Intangible assets, net
   
19,084
     
20,317
 
Bank owned life insurance
   
114,342
     
114,251
 
Other assets
   
113,870
     
126,967
 
Total assets
 
$
7,863,861
   
$
7,797,926
 
                 
Liabilities
               
Demand (noninterest bearing)
 
$
1,797,879
   
$
1,838,622
 
Savings, NOW, and money market
   
3,685,121
     
3,417,160
 
Time
   
996,437
     
1,043,823
 
Total deposits
   
6,479,437
     
6,299,605
 
Short-term borrowings
   
193,172
     
316,802
 
Long-term debt
   
130,775
     
130,945
 
Junior subordinated debt
   
101,196
     
101,196
 
Other liabilities
   
81,787
     
85,197
 
Total liabilities
   
6,986,367
     
6,933,745
 
                 
Stockholders' equity
               
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value. Authorized 2,500,000 shares at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014
   
-
     
-
 
Common stock, $0.01 par value. Authorized 100,000,000 shares at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014; issued 49,651,494 at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014
   
497
     
497
 
Additional paid-in-capital
   
575,928
     
576,504
 
Retained earnings
   
432,840
     
423,956
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
   
(13,531
)
   
(17,027
)
Common stock in treasury, at cost, 5,674,678 and 5,755,040 shares at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively
   
(118,240
)
   
(119,749
)
Total stockholders' equity
   
877,494
     
864,181
 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
7,863,861
   
$
7,797,926
 
 
See accompanying notes to unaudited interim consolidated financial statements.
 
NBT Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
Three months ended March 31,
 
Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited)
  
2015
   
2014
 
(In thousands, except per share data)
 
   
 
Interest, fee, and dividend income
 
   
 
Interest and fees on loans
 
$
59,518
   
$
60,015
 
Securities available for sale
   
4,945
     
6,757
 
Securities held to maturity
   
2,283
     
768
 
Other
   
480
     
537
 
Total interest, fee, and dividend income
   
67,226
     
68,077
 
Interest expense
               
Deposits
   
3,573
     
3,284
 
Short-term borrowings
   
121
     
231
 
Long-term debt
   
826
     
2,507
 
Junior subordinated debt
   
540
     
538
 
Total interest expense
   
5,060
     
6,560
 
Net interest income
   
62,166
     
61,517
 
Provision for loan losses
   
3,642
     
3,596
 
Net interest income after provision for loan losses
   
58,524
     
57,921
 
Noninterest income
               
Insurance and other financial services revenue
   
6,374
     
6,737
 
Service charges on deposit accounts
   
4,072
     
4,369
 
ATM and debit card fees
   
4,248
     
4,072
 
Retirement plan administration fees
   
3,196
     
2,918
 
Trust
   
4,450
     
4,446
 
Bank owned life insurance
   
1,559
     
1,382
 
Net securities gains
   
14
     
7
 
Other
   
2,621
     
2,346
 
Total noninterest income
   
26,534
     
26,277
 
Noninterest expense
               
Salaries and employee benefits
   
30,182
     
29,534
 
Occupancy
   
6,066
     
6,226
 
Data processing and communications
   
4,103
     
4,001
 
Professional fees and outside services
   
3,497
     
3,415
 
Equipment
   
3,249
     
3,116
 
Office supplies and postage
   
1,619
     
1,685
 
FDIC expenses
   
1,198
     
1,278
 
Advertising
   
719
     
739
 
Amortization of intangible assets
   
1,284
     
1,310
 
Loan collection and other real estate owned
   
872
     
1,040
 
Other
   
4,913
     
5,173
 
Total noninterest expense
   
57,702
     
57,517
 
Income before income tax expense
   
27,356
     
26,681
 
Income tax expense
   
9,190
     
8,672
 
Net income
 
$
18,166
   
$
18,009
 
Earnings per share
               
Basic
 
$
0.41
   
$
0.41
 
Diluted
 
$
0.41
   
$
0.41
 
 
See accompanying notes to unaudited interim consolidated financial statements.
 

NBT Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
Three months ended March 31,
 
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (unaudited)
 
2015
   
2014
 
(In thousands)
  
  
     
  
  
Net income
 
$
18,166
   
$
18,009
 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
               
Unrealized net holding gains (losses) arising during the period (pre-tax amounts of ($4,842) and ($8,623))
   
2,959
     
5,208
 
Reclassification adjustment for net gains related to securities available for sale included in net income (pre-tax amounts of $14 and $7)
   
(9
)
   
(4
)
Amortization of unrealized net gains and losses related to the reclassification of available for sale investment securities to held to maturity (pre-tax amounts of $307 and $0 )
   
204
     
-
 
Pension and other benefits:
               
Amortization of prior service cost and actuarial loss (pre-tax amounts of $560 and $19)
   
342
      
11
 
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
   
3,496
     
5,215
 
Comprehensive income
 
$
21,662
   
$
23,224
 
 
See accompanying notes to unaudited interim consolidated financial statements.
 
NBT Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (unaudited)
 
     
Common Stock
   
Additional Paid-in- Capital
   
Retained Earnings
   
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
   
Common Stock in Treasury
   
Total
 
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Balance at December 31, 2013
 
$
497
   
$
574,152
   
$
385,787
   
$
(16,765
)
 
$
(127,102
)
 
$
816,569
 
Net income
   
-
     
-
     
18,009
     
-
     
-
     
18,009
 
Cash dividends - $0.21 per share
   
-
     
-
     
(9,207
)
   
-
     
-
     
(9,207
)
Net issuance of 87,638 shares to employee benefit plans and other stock plans, including tax benefit
   
-
     
(1,335
)
   
-
     
-
     
1,697
     
362
 
Stock-based compensation
   
-
     
1,254
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,254
 
Other comprehensive income
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
5,215
     
-
     
5,215
 
Balance at March 31, 2014
 
$
497
   
$
574,071
   
$
394,589
   
$
(11,550
)
 
$
(125,405
)
 
$
832,202
 
 
                                               
Balance at December 31, 2014
 
$
497
   
$
576,504
   
$
423,956
   
$
(17,027
)
 
$
(119,749
)
 
$
864,181
 
Net income
   
-
     
-
     
18,166
     
-
     
-
     
18,166
 
Cash dividends - $0.21 per share
   
-
     
-
     
(9,282
)
   
-
     
-
     
(9,282
)
Net issuance of 80,362 shares to employee benefit plans and other stock plans, including tax benefit
   
-
     
(2,564
)
   
-
     
-
     
1,509
     
(1,055
)
Stock-based compensation
   
-
     
1,988
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,988
 
Other comprehensive income
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
3,496
     
-
     
3,496
 
Balance at March 31, 2015
 
$
497
   
$
575,928
   
$
432,840
   
$
(13,531
)
 
$
(118,240
)
 
$
877,494
 
 
See accompanying notes to unaudited interim consolidated financial statements.
 
NBT Bancorp Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
Three months ended March 31,
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)
 
2015
   
2014
 
(In thousands, except per share data)
 
   
 
Operating activities
 
   
 
         
Net income
 
$
18,166
   
$
18,009
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
               
Provision for loan losses
   
3,642
     
3,596
 
Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment
   
2,152
     
2,046
 
Net accretion on securities
   
531
     
921
 
Amortization of intangible assets
   
1,284
     
1,310
 
Stock based compensation
   
1,988
     
1,254
 
Bank owned life insurance income
   
(1,559
)
   
(1,382
)
Purchases of trading securities
   
(492
)
   
(1,043
)
Losses (Gains) on trading securities
   
20
     
(132
)
Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale
   
7,111
     
439
 
Originations and purchases of loans held for sale
   
(7,297
)
   
(1,418
)
Net gains on sales of loans held for sale
   
(64
)
   
(3
)
Net security gains
   
(14
)
   
(7
)
Net gain on sales of other real estate owned
   
-
     
(102
)
Net decrease in other assets
   
12,078
     
7,118
 
Net (decrease) increase in other liabilities
   
(7,547
)
   
1,156
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
29,999
     
31,762
 
Investing activities
               
Securities available for sale:
               
Proceeds from maturities, calls, and principal paydowns
   
61,153
     
67,341
 
Purchases
   
(114,445
)
   
(70,339
)
Securities held to maturity:
               
Proceeds from maturities, calls, and principal paydowns
   
19,752
     
5,107
 
Purchases
   
(18,907
)
   
(5,217
)
Other:
               
Net increase in loans
   
(33,206
)
   
(78,304
)
Proceeds from FHLB stock redemption
   
13,481
     
15,306
 
Purchases of Federal Reserve and FHLB stock
   
(8,617
)
   
(9,900
)
Proceeds from settlement of bank owned life insurance
   
1,468
     
573
 
Purchases of premises and equipment
   
(1,044
)
   
(1,114
)
Proceeds from the sales of other real estate owned
   
698
     
902
 
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(79,667
)
   
(75,645
)
Financing activities
               
Net increase in deposits
   
179,832
     
178,674
 
Net decrease in short-term borrowings
   
(123,630
)
   
(99,164
)
Repayments of long-term debt
   
(170
)
   
(144
)
Proceeds from the issuance of shares to employee benefit plans and other stock plans
   
(1,055
)
   
362
 
Cash dividends and payment for fractional shares
   
(9,282
)
   
(9,207
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
45,695
     
70,521
 
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
(3,973
)
   
26,638
 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
146,636
     
158,926
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
142,663
   
$
185,564
 
 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information
 
Three months ended March 31,
 
Cash paid during the period for:
 
2015
   
2014
 
Interest
 
$
5,803
   
$
6,829
 
Income taxes paid
   
872
     
2,745
 
Noncash investing activities:
               
Loans transferred to other real estate owned
 
$
1,062
   
$
460
 
 
See accompanying notes to unaudited interim consolidated financial statements.
 
NBT BANCORP INC. and Subsidiaries
NOTES TO UNAUDITED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
March 31, 2015
 
Note 1. Description of Business
 
NBT Bancorp Inc. (the "Registrant" or the "Company") is a registered financial holding company incorporated in the state of Delaware in 1986, with its principal headquarters located in Norwich, New York.  The principal assets of the Registrant consist of all of the outstanding shares of common stock of its subsidiaries, including:  NBT Bank, National Association (the "Bank"), NBT Financial Services, Inc. ("NBT Financial"), NBT Holdings, Inc. ("NBT Holdings"), Hathaway Agency, Inc., and CNBF Capital Trust I, NBT Statutory Trust I and NBT Statutory Trust II (collectively, the "Trusts").  The Company's principal sources of revenue are the management fees and dividends it receives from the Bank, NBT Financial and NBT Holdings.
 
The Company's business, primarily conducted through the Bank but also through its other subsidiaries, consists of providing commercial banking and financial services to customers in its market area, which includes central and upstate New York, northeastern Pennsylvania, northwestern Vermont, western Massachusetts, southern New Hampshire, and southern Maine.  The Company has been, and intends to continue to be, a community-oriented financial institution offering a variety of financial services.  The Company's business philosophy is to operate as a community bank with local decision-making, principally in non-metropolitan markets, providing a broad array of banking and financial services to retail, commercial, and municipal customers.

Note 2. Basis of Presentation
 
The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Registrant and its wholly owned subsidiaries, the Bank, NBT Financial and NBT Holdings.  Collectively, the Registrant and its subsidiaries are referred to herein as "the Company."  The interim data includes all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP").  These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year or any other interim period.  All intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Amounts in the prior period financial statements are reclassified whenever necessary to conform to current period presentation.  The Company has evaluated subsequent events for potential recognition and/or disclosure and there were none identified.
 
Note 3. Securities
 
The amortized cost, estimated fair value, and unrealized gains and losses of securities available for sale are as follows:
 
(In thousands)
 
Amortized
cost
   
Unrealized
gains
   
Unrealized
losses
   
Estimated
fair value
 
March 31, 2015
 
   
   
   
 
U.S. Treasury
 
$
13,019
   
$
37
   
$
-
   
$
13,056
 
Federal Agency
   
402,255
     
1,080
     
584
     
402,751
 
State & municipal
   
37,807
     
621
     
5
     
38,423
 
Mortgage-backed:
                               
Government-sponsored enterprises
   
321,746
     
8,838
     
16
     
330,568
 
U.S. government agency securities
   
16,406
     
893
     
64
     
17,235
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations:
                               
Government-sponsored enterprises
   
213,999
     
2,336
     
54
     
216,281
 
U.S. government agency securities
   
37,268
     
554
     
29
     
37,793
 
Other securities
   
12,872
     
2,799
     
124
     
15,547
 
Total securities available for sale
 
$
1,055,372
   
$
17,158
   
$
876
   
$
1,071,654
 
December 31, 2014
                               
U.S. Treasury
 
$
23,041
   
$
70
   
$
-
   
$
23,111
 
Federal Agency
   
332,193
     
327
     
2,606
     
329,914
 
State & municipal
   
37,035
     
587
     
52
     
37,570
 
Mortgage-backed:
                               
Government-sponsored enterprises
   
339,190
     
7,597
     
224
     
346,563
 
U.S. government agency securities
   
17,367
     
863
     
66
     
18,164
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations:
                               
Government-sponsored enterprises
   
199,837
     
1,828
     
234
     
201,431
 
U.S. government agency securities
   
40,237
     
497
     
36
     
40,698
 
Other securities
   
12,818
     
3,054
     
152
     
15,720
 
Total securities available for sale
 
$
1,001,718
   
$
14,823
   
$
3,370
   
$
1,013,171
 
 
Other securities primarily represent marketable equity securities.
 
Securities with amortized costs totaling $1.4 billion at March 31, 2015 and $1.4 billion at December 31, 2014 were pledged to secure public deposits and for other purposes required or permitted by law.  At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, securities with an amortized cost of $183.0 million and $208.8 million, respectively, were pledged as collateral for securities sold under repurchase agreements.
 
The amortized cost, estimated fair value, and unrealized gains and losses of securities held to maturity are as follows:
 
(In thousands)
 
Amortized cost
   
Unrealized gains
   
Unrealized losses
   
Estimated fair value
 
March 31, 2015
 
   
   
   
 
Mortgage-backed:
               
     Government-sponsored enterprises
 
$
10,260
   
$
25
   
$
-
   
$
10,285
 
     U.S. government agency securities
   
727
     
122
     
-
     
849
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations:
                               
     Government-sponsored enterprises
   
307,647
     
4,279
     
1,313
     
310,613
 
State & municipal
   
138,139
     
1,370
     
32
     
139,477
 
Total securities held to maturity
 
$
456,773
   
$
5,796
   
$
1,345
   
$
461,224
 
December 31, 2014
                               
Mortgage-backed:
                               
     Government-sponsored enterprises
 
$
755
   
$
113
   
$
-
   
$
868
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations:
                               
     Government-sponsored enterprises
   
317,628
     
1,934
     
1,965
     
317,597
 
State & municipal
   
135,978
     
674
     
123
     
136,529
 
Total securities held to maturity
 
$
454,361
   
$
2,721
   
$
2,088
   
$
454,994
 
 
The following table sets forth information with regard to investment securities with unrealized losses for the periods presented:
 
 
 
Less than 12 months
   
12 months or longer
   
Total
 
Security Type:
 
Fair Value
   
Unrealized losses
   
Number of Positions
   
Fair Value
   
Unrealized losses
   
Number of Positions
   
Fair Value
   
Unrealized losses
   
Number of Positions
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
March 31, 2015
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
Investment securities available for sale:
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
Federal agency
 
$
159,455
   
$
(331
)
   
13
   
$
39,721
   
$
(253
)
   
4
   
$
199,176
   
$
(584
)
   
17
 
State & municipal
   
1,939
     
(5
)
   
4
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,939
     
(5
)
   
4
 
Mortgage-backed
   
11,159
     
(20
)
   
16
     
4,759
     
(60
)
   
14
     
15,918
     
(80
)
   
30
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations
   
17,116
     
(60
)
   
12
     
5,169
     
(23
)
   
3
     
22,285
     
(83
)
   
15
 
Other securities
   
642
     
(8
)
   
1
     
3,237
     
(116
)
   
2
     
3,879
     
(124
)
   
3
 
Total securities with unrealized losses
 
$
190,311
   
$
(424
)
   
46
   
$
52,886
   
$
(452
)
   
23
   
$
243,197
   
$
(876
)
   
69
 
 
                                                                       
March 31, 2015
                                                                       
Investment securities held to maturity:
                                                                       
Collateralized mortgage obligations
 
$
13,031
   
$
(19
)
   
11
   
$
45,860
   
$
(1,294
)
   
4
   
$
58,891
   
$
(1,313
)
   
15
 
  State & municipal
   
7,482
     
(32
)
   
102
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
7,482
     
(32
)
   
102
 
Total securities with unrealized losses
 
$
20,513
   
$
(51
)
   
113
   
$
45,860
   
$
(1,294
)
   
4
     
66,373
   
$
(1,345
)
   
117
 
                                                                         
December 31, 2014
                                                                       
Investment securities available for sale:
                                                                       
Federal agency
 
$
66,528
   
$
(226
)
   
8
   
$
198,151
   
$
(2,380
)
   
16
   
$
264,679
   
$
(2,606
)
   
24
 
State & municipal
   
8,818
     
(42
)
   
33
     
1,321
     
(10
)
   
5
     
10,139
     
(52
)
   
38
 
Mortgage-backed
   
10,400
     
(36
)
   
10
     
35,565
     
(254
)
   
31
     
45,965
     
(290
)
   
41
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations
   
57,682
     
(196
)
   
8
     
6,598
     
(74
)
   
4
     
64,280
     
(270
)
   
12
 
Other securities
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
3,201
     
(152
)
   
2
     
3,201
     
(152
)
   
2
 
Total securities with unrealized losses
 
$
143,428
   
$
(500
)
   
59
   
$
244,836
   
$
(2,870
)
   
58
   
$
388,264
   
$
(3,370
)
   
117
 
 
                                                                       
December 31, 2014
                                                                       
Investment securities held to maturity:
                                                                       
Collateralized mortgage obligations
 
$
26,052
   
$
(49
)
   
2
   
$
46,415
   
$
(1,916
)
   
4
   
$
72,467
   
$
(1,965
)
   
6
 
State & municipal
   
43,514
     
(116
)
   
110
     
1,619
     
(7
)
   
6
     
45,133
     
(123
)
   
116
 
Total securities with unrealized losses
 
$
69,566
   
$
(165
)
   
112
   
$
48,034
   
$
(1,923
)
   
10
   
$
117,600
   
$
(2,088
)
   
122
 
 
Declines in the fair value of held-to-maturity and available-for-sale securities below their cost that are deemed to be other than temporary are reflected in earnings as realized losses or in other comprehensive income, depending on whether the Company intends to sell the security or more likely than not will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period credit loss.  If the Company intends to sell the security or more likely than not will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period credit loss, the other-than-temporary impairment shall be recognized in earnings equal to the entire difference between the investment's amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date.  If the Company 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 less any current-period credit loss, the other-than-temporary impairment shall be separated into (a) the amount representing the credit loss and (b) the amount related to all other factors.  The amount of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to the credit loss shall be recognized in earnings. The amount of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to other factors shall be recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes.
 
In estimating other-than-temporary impairment losses, management considers, among other things, (i) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (ii) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and (iii) the historical and implied volatility of the fair value of the security.
 
Management has the intent to hold the securities classified as held to maturity until they mature, at which time it is believed the Company will receive full value for the securities. Furthermore, as of March 31, 2015, management also had the intent to hold, and will not be required to sell, the securities classified as available for sale for a period of time sufficient for a recovery of cost, which may be until maturity.  The unrealized losses are due to increases in market interest rates over the yields available at the time the underlying securities were purchased. When necessary, the Company has performed a discounted cash flow analysis to determine whether or not it will receive the contractual principal and interest on certain securities.  The fair value is expected to recover as the bonds approach their maturity date or repricing date or if market yields for such investments decline.  As of March 31, 2015, management believes the impairments detailed in the table above are temporary and no other-than-temporary impairment losses have been realized in the Company's consolidated statements of income.
 
The following tables set forth information with regard to contractual maturities of debt securities at March 31, 2015:
 
(In thousands)
 
Amortized cost
   
Estimated fair value
 
Debt securities classified as available for sale
 
   
 
Within one year
 
$
19,250
   
$
19,312
 
From one to five years
   
414,712
     
416,598
 
From five to ten years
   
170,168
     
173,750
 
After ten years
   
438,370
     
446,447
 
 
 
$
1,042,500
   
$
1,056,107
 
Debt securities classified as held to maturity
               
Within one year
 
$
24,182
   
$
24,260
 
From one to five years
   
16,047
     
16,137
 
From five to ten years
   
90,418
     
91,502
 
After ten years
   
326,126
     
329,325
 
 
 
$
456,773
   
$
461,224
 
 
Maturities of mortgage-backed and collateralized mortgage obligations are stated based on their estimated average lives.  Actual maturities may differ from estimated average lives or contractual maturities because, in certain cases, borrowers have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.
 
Except for U.S. Government securities, there were no holdings, when taken in the aggregate, of any single issuer that exceeded 10% of consolidated stockholders' equity at March 31, 2015.
 
Note  4. Allowance for Loan Losses and Credit Quality of Loans

Allowance for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level estimated by management to provide adequately for risk of probable losses inherent in the current loan portfolio. The adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is continuously monitored.  It is assessed for adequacy using a methodology designed to ensure the level of the allowance reasonably reflects the loan portfolio's risk profile. It is evaluated to ensure that it is sufficient to absorb all reasonably estimable credit losses inherent in the current loan portfolio.
 
To develop and document a systematic methodology for determining the allowance for loan losses, the Company has divided the loan portfolio into three segments, each with different risk characteristics and methodologies for assessing risk.  Those segments are further segregated between our loans accounted for under the amortized cost method (referred to as "originated" loans) and loans acquired in a business combination (referred to as "acquired" loans).  Each portfolio segment is broken down into class segments where appropriate.  Class segments contain unique measurement attributes, risk characteristics and methods for monitoring and assessing risk that are necessary to develop the allowance for loan losses.  Unique characteristics such as borrower type, loan type, collateral type, and risk characteristics define each class segment.  The following table illustrates the portfolio and class segments for the Company's loan portfolio:
  
Portfolio
Class
Commercial Loans
Commercial
 
Commercial Real Estate
 
Agricultural
 
Agricultural Real Estate
 
Business Banking
 
 
Consumer Loans
Indirect
 
Home Equity
 
Direct
 
 
Residential Real Estate Mortgages
 
 
Commercial Loans
 
The Company offers a variety of commercial loan products including commercial (non-real estate), commercial real estate, agricultural, agricultural real estate, and business banking loans.  The Company's underwriting analysis for commercial loans typically includes credit verification, independent appraisals, a review of the borrower's financial condition, and a detailed analysis of the borrower's underlying cash flows.
 
CommercialThe Company offers a variety of loan options to meet the specific needs of our commercial customers including term loans, time notes and lines of credit.  Such loans are made available to businesses for working capital needs such as inventory and receivables, business expansion and equipment purchases. Generally, a collateral lien is placed on equipment or other assets owned by the borrower.  These loans carry a higher risk than commercial real estate loans due to the nature of the underlying collateral, which can be business assets such as equipment and accounts receivable. To reduce the risk, management also attempts to secure real estate as collateral and obtain personal guarantees of the borrowers.
 
Commercial Real Estate – The Company offers commercial real estate loans to finance real estate purchases, refinancings, expansions and improvements to commercial properties.  Commercial real estate loans are made to finance the purchases of real estate, generally with completed structures. These commercial real estate loans are secured by first liens on the real estate, which may include apartments, commercial structures, housing businesses, healthcare facilities, and other non owner-occupied facilities.  These loans are typically less risky than commercial loans, since they are secured by real estate and buildings, and are generally originated in amounts of no more than 80% of the appraised value of the property.

Agricultural – The Company offers a variety of agricultural loans to meet the needs of our agricultural customers including term loans, time notes, and lines of credit.  These loans are made to purchase livestock, purchase and modernize equipment, and finance seasonal crop expenses.  Generally, a collateral lien is placed on the livestock, equipment, produce inventories, and/or receivables owned by the borrower.  These loans may carry a higher risk than commercial and agricultural real estate loans due to the industry price volatility, and in some cases, the perishable nature of the underlying collateral.  To reduce these risks, management may attempt to secure these loans with additional real estate collateral, obtain personal guarantees of the borrowers, or obtain government loan guarantees to provide further support.
 
Agricultural Real Estate – The Company offers real estate loans to our agricultural customers to finance farm related real estate purchases, refinancings, expansions, and improvements to agricultural properties such as barns, production facilities, and land.  The agricultural real estate loans are secured by first liens on the farm real estate.  Because they are secured by land and buildings, these loans may be less risky than agricultural loans.  These loans are typically originated in amounts of no more than 75% of the appraised value of the property.  Government loan guarantees may be obtained to provide further support.
 
Business Banking - The Company offers a variety of loan options to meet the specific needs of our business banking customers including term loans, business banking mortgages and lines of credit.  Such loans are generally less than $0.5 million and are made available to businesses for working capital such as inventory and receivables, business expansion, equipment purchases, and agricultural needs.  Generally, a collateral lien is placed on equipment or other assets owned by the borrower such as inventory and/or receivables.  These loans carry a higher risk than commercial loans due to the smaller size of the borrower and lower levels of capital.  To reduce the risk, the Company obtains personal guarantees of the owners for a majority of the loans.
 
Consumer Loans
 
The Company offers a variety of consumer loan products including indirect, home equity, and direct loans.
 
Indirect – The Company maintains relationships with many dealers primarily in the communities that we serve.  Through these relationships, the company primarily finances the purchases of automobiles and recreational vehicles (such as campers, boats, etc.) indirectly through dealer relationships.  Approximately 75% of the indirect relationships represent automobile financing.  Most of these loans carry a fixed rate of interest with principal repayment terms typically ranging from three to six years, based upon the nature of the collateral and the size of the loan. The majority of indirect consumer loans are underwritten on a secured basis using the underlying collateral being financed.
 
Home Equity The Company offers fixed home equity loans as well as home equity lines of credit to consumers to finance home improvements, debt consolidation, education and other uses.  Consumers are able to borrow up to 85% of the equity in their homes.  The Company originates home equity lines of credit and second mortgage loans (loans secured by a second junior lien position on one-to-four-family residential real estate).  These loans carry a higher risk than first mortgage residential loans as they are in a second position with respect to collateral.  Risk is reduced through underwriting criteria, which include credit verification, appraisals, a review of the borrower's financial condition, and personal cash flows.  A security interest, with title insurance when necessary, is taken in the underlying real estate.
 
Direct – The Company offers a variety of consumer installment loans to finance vehicle purchases, mobile home purchases and personal expenditures.  Most of these loans carry a fixed rate of interest with principal repayment terms typically ranging from one to ten years, based upon the nature of the collateral and the size of the loan. The majority of consumer loans are underwritten on a secured basis using the underlying collateral being financed or a customer's deposit account. In addition to installment loans, the Company also offers personal lines of credit and overdraft protection.  A minimal amount of loans are unsecured, which carry a higher risk of loss.

Residential Real Estate Mortgages
Residential real estate loans consist primarily of loans secured by first or second deeds of trust on primary residences.  We originate adjustable-rate and fixed-rate, one-to-four-family residential real estate loans for the construction, purchase or refinancing of a mortgage.  These loans are collateralized by owner-occupied properties located in the Company's market area.  Loans on one-to-four-family residential real estate are generally originated in amounts of no more than 85% of the purchase price or appraised value (whichever is lower), or have private mortgage insurance.  The Company's underwriting analysis for residential mortgage loans typically includes credit verification, independent appraisals, and a review of the borrower's financial condition.  Mortgage title insurance and hazard insurance are normally required. Construction loans have a unique risk, because they are secured by an incomplete dwelling. This risk is reduced through periodic site inspections, including one at each loan draw period.
 
For purposes of evaluating the adequacy of the allowance, the Company considers a number of significant factors that affect the collectability of the portfolio.  For individually analyzed loans, these include estimates of loss exposure, which reflect the facts and circumstances that affect the likelihood of repayment of such loans as of the evaluation date. For homogeneous pools of loans, estimates of the Company's exposure to credit loss reflect a current assessment of a number of factors, which could affect collectability.  These factors include:  past loss experience;  size, trend, composition, and nature of loans;  changes in lending policies and procedures, including underwriting standards and collection,  charge-offs  and  recoveries; trends experienced in nonperforming and delinquent loans; current economic conditions in the Company's market;  portfolio concentrations that may affect loss experienced across one or more components of the portfolio; the effect of external factors such as competition, legal and regulatory requirements; and the experience, ability, and depth of lending management and staff. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral component of their examination process, periodically review the Company's allowance for loan losses.  Such agencies may require the Company to make loan grade changes as well as recognize additions to the allowance based on their examinations.
 
After a thorough consideration of the factors discussed above, any required additions or reductions to the allowance for loan losses are made periodically by charges or credits to the provision for loan losses. These charges or credits are necessary to maintain the allowance at a level which management believes is reasonably reflective of overall inherent risk of probable loss in the portfolio. While management uses available information to recognize losses on loans, additions and reductions of the allowance may fluctuate from one reporting period to another.  These fluctuations are reflective of changes in risk associated with portfolio content and/or changes in management's assessment of any or all of the determining factors discussed above.
 
The following tables illustrate the changes in the allowance for loan losses by our portfolio segments for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
 
Three months ended March 31,
 
Commercial Loans
   
Consumer Loans
   
Residential Real Estate Mortgages
   
Unallocated
   
Total
 
Balance as of December 31, 2014
 
$
32,433
   
$
26,720
   
$
7,130
   
$
76
   
$
66,359
 
Charge-offs
   
(798
)
   
(4,378
)
   
(504
)
   
-
     
(5,680
)
Recoveries
   
234
     
748
     
56
     
-
     
1,038
 
Provision
   
(591
)
   
3,066
     
1,016
     
151
     
3,642
 
Ending Balance as of March 31, 2015
 
$
31,278
   
$
26,156
   
$
7,698
   
$
227
   
$
65,359
 
 
                                       
Balance as of December 31, 2013
 
$
35,090
   
$
27,694
   
$
6,520
   
$
130
   
$
69,434
 
Charge-offs
   
(479
)
   
(4,032
)
   
(319
)
   
-
     
(4,830
)
Recoveries
   
399
     
741
     
94
     
-
     
1,234
 
Provision
   
(573
)
   
4,033
     
(70
)
   
206
     
3,596
 
Ending Balance as of March 31, 2014
 
$
34,437
   
$
28,436
   
$
6,225
   
$
336
   
$
69,434
 


As of March 31, 2015, included in the above tables, there was $1.9 million in the allowance for loan losses related to acquired commercial loans.  There was no allowance as of March 31, 2014 related to acquired loans.  Net charge-offs related to acquired loans totaled approximately $0.6 million and $0.2 million during the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and are included in the table above. 
 
The following tables illustrate the allowance for loan losses and the recorded investment by portfolio segments as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:
 
Allowance for Loan Losses and Recorded Investment in Loans
(in thousands)
 
 
 
Commercial Loans
   
Consumer Loans
   
Residential Real Estate Mortgages
   
Unallocated
   
Total
 
As of March 31, 2015
 
   
   
   
   
 
Allowance for loan losses
 
$
31,278
   
$
26,156
   
$
7,698
   
$
227
   
$
65,359
 
 
                                       
Allowance for loans individually evaluated for impairment
   
2,950
     
-
     
-
             
2,950
 
 
                                       
Allowance for loans collectively evaluated for impairment
 
$
28,328
   
$
26,156
   
$
7,698
   
$
227
   
$
62,409
 
 
                                       
Ending balance of loans
 
$
2,484,300
   
$
2,013,123
   
$
1,125,600
           
$
5,623,023
 
 
                                       
Ending balance of originated loans individually evaluated for impairment
   
12,253
     
6,423
     
4,269
             
22,945
 
Ending balance of acquired loans individually evaluated for impairment
   
9,772
     
-
     
-
             
9,772
 
Ending balance of acquired loans collectively evaluated for impairment
   
315,466
     
132,675
     
260,857
             
708,998
 
Ending balance of originated loans collectively evaluated for impairment
 
$
2,146,809
   
$
1,874,025
   
$
860,474
           
$
4,881,308
 
 
                                       
As of December 31, 2014
                                       
Allowance for loan losses
 
$
32,433
   
$
26,720
   
$
7,130
   
$
76
   
$
66,359
 
 
                                       
Allowance for loans individually evaluated for impairment
   
1,100
     
-
     
-
             
1,100
 
 
                                       
Allowance for loans collectively evaluated for impairment
 
$
31,333
   
$
26,720
   
$
7,130
   
$
76
   
$
65,259
 
 
                                       
Ending balance of loans
 
$
2,473,702
   
$
2,005,980
   
$
1,115,589
           
$
5,595,271
 
 
                                       
Ending balance of originated loans individually evaluated for impairment
   
11,079
     
5,498
     
3,544
             
20,121
 
Ending balance of acquired loans individually evaluated for impairment
   
5,675
     
-
     
-
             
5,675
 
Ending balance of acquired loans collectively evaluated for impairment
   
327,656
     
147,256
     
266,747
             
741,659
 
Ending balance of originated loans collectively evaluated for impairment
 
$
2,129,292
   
$
1,853,226
   
$
845,298
           
$
4,827,816
 
 
Credit Quality of Loans
Loans are placed on nonaccrual status when timely collection of principal and interest in accordance with contractual terms is doubtful. Loans are transferred to nonaccrual status generally when principal or interest payments become ninety days delinquent, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection, or sooner when management concludes or circumstances indicate that borrowers may be unable to meet contractual principal or interest payments.  When a loan is transferred to a nonaccrual status, all interest previously accrued in the current period but not collected is reversed against interest income in that period. Interest accrued in a prior period and not collected is charged-off against the allowance for loan losses.  The Company's nonaccrual policies are the same for all classes of financing receivable.
 
If ultimate repayment of a nonaccrual loan is expected, any payments received are applied in accordance with contractual terms. If ultimate repayment of principal is not expected, any payment received on a nonaccrual loan is applied to principal until ultimate repayment becomes expected.  Nonaccrual loans are returned to accrual status when they become current as to principal and interest and demonstrate a period of performance under the contractual terms and, in the opinion of management, are fully collectible as to principal and interest.  When in the opinion of management the collection of principal appears unlikely, the loan balance is charged-off in total or in part.  For loans in all portfolios, the principal amount is charged off in full or in part as soon as management determines, based on available facts, that the collection of principal in full is improbable.  For commercial loans, management considers specific facts and circumstances relative to individual credits in making such a determination.  For consumer and residential loan classes, management uses specific guidance and thresholds from the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council's Uniform Retail Credit Classification and Account Management Policy.
 
The following tables set forth information with regard to past due and nonperforming loans by loan class as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:
 
Age Analysis of Past Due Financing Receivables
As of March 31, 2015
(in thousands)
 
   
31-60 Days Past Due Accruing
   
61-90 Days Past Due Accruing
   
Greater Than 90 Days Past Due Accruing
   
Total Past Due Accruing
   
Non-Accrual
   
Current
   
Recorded Total Loans
 
ORIGINATED
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
Commercial Loans
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
Commercial
 
$
348
   
$
-
   
$
35
   
$
383
   
$
1,019
   
$
620,111
   
$
621,513
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
133
     
37
     
-
     
170
     
6,231
     
1,076,218
     
1,082,619
 
Agricultural
   
129
     
-
     
-
     
129
     
800
     
31,080
     
32,009
 
Agricultural Real Estate
   
7
     
-
     
-
     
7
     
561
     
23,963
     
24,531
 
Business Banking
   
602
     
192
     
42
     
836
     
6,624
     
390,930
     
398,390
 
 
   
1,219
     
229
     
77
     
1,525
     
15,235
     
2,142,302
     
2,159,062
 
 
                                                       
Consumer Loans
                                                       
Indirect
   
11,794
     
2,348
     
1,722
     
15,864
     
2,056
     
1,327,653
     
1,345,573
 
Home Equity
   
3,507
     
804
     
484
     
4,795
     
6,160
     
470,340
     
481,295
 
Direct
   
375
     
80
     
22
     
477
     
130
     
52,973
     
53,580
 
 
   
15,676
     
3,232
     
2,228
     
21,136
     
8,346
     
1,850,966
     
1,880,448
 
Residential Real Estate Mortgages
   
3,194
     
1,264
     
255
     
4,713
     
7,518
     
852,512
     
864,743
 
 
 
$
20,089
   
$
4,725
   
$
2,560
   
$
27,374
   
$
31,099
   
$
4,845,780
   
$
4,904,253
 
 
                                                       
ACQUIRED
                                                       
Commercial Loans
                                                       
Commercial
 
$
42
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
42
   
$
2,517
   
$
70,010
   
$
72,569
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
7,247
     
190,518
     
197,765
 
Business Banking
   
-
     
2
     
-
     
2
     
488
     
54,414
     
54,904
 
 
   
42
     
2
     
-
     
44
     
10,252
     
314,942
     
325,238
 
 
                                                       
Consumer Loans
                                                       
Indirect
   
343
     
44
     
37
     
424
     
146
     
53,577
     
54,147
 
Home Equity
   
212
     
50
     
-
     
262
     
427
     
73,029
     
73,718
 
Direct
   
76
     
4
     
4
     
84
     
28
     
4,698
     
4,810
 
 
   
631
     
98
     
41
     
770
     
601
     
131,304
     
132,675
 
Residential Real Estate Mortgages
   
1,472
     
650
     
-
     
2,122
     
3,101
     
255,634
     
260,857
 
   
$
2,145
   
$
750
   
$
41
   
$
2,936
   
$
13,954
   
$
701,880
   
$
718,770
 
  Total Loans
 
$
22,234
   
$
5,475
   
$
2,601
   
$
30,310
   
$
45,053
   
$
5,547,660
   
$
5,623,023
 
 
 
Age Analysis of Past Due Financing Receivables
As of December 31, 2014
(in thousands)
 
   
31-60 Days Past Due Accruing
   
61-90 Days Past Due Accruing
   
Greater Than 90 Days Past Due Accruing
   
Total Past Due Accruing
   
Non-Accrual
   
Current
   
Recorded Total Loans
 
ORIGINATED
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
Commercial Loans
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
Commercial
 
$
-
   
$
735
   
$
-
   
$
735
   
$
1,012
   
$
613,400
   
$
615,147
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
192
     
-
     
-
     
192
     
4,127
     
1,064,549
     
1,068,868
 
Agricultural
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
817
     
32,130
     
32,947
 
Agricultural Real Estate
   
19
     
-
     
-
     
19
     
565
     
24,390
     
24,974
 
Business Banking
   
799
     
235
     
84
     
1,118
     
6,910
     
390,407
     
398,435
 
 
   
1,010
     
970
     
84
     
2,064
     
13,431
     
2,124,876
     
2,140,371
 
 
                                                       
Consumer Loans
                                                       
Indirect
   
16,434
     
3,154
     
1,991
     
21,579
     
1,964
     
1,286,507
     
1,310,050
 
Home Equity
   
4,591
     
1,428
     
821
     
6,840
     
6,596
     
479,444
     
492,880
 
Direct
   
560
     
157
     
52
     
769
     
84
     
54,941
     
55,794
 
 
   
21,585
     
4,739
     
2,864
     
29,188
     
8,644
     
1,820,892
     
1,858,724
 
Residential Real Estate Mortgages
   
2,901
     
96
     
1,256
     
4,253
     
8,770
     
835,819
     
848,842
 
 
 
$
25,496
   
$
5,805
   
$
4,204
   
$
35,505
   
$
30,845
   
$
4,781,587
   
$
4,847,937
 
                                                         
 
                                                       
ACQUIRED
                                                       
Commercial Loans
                                                       
Commercial
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
3,009
   
$
72,255
   
$
75,264
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
2,666
     
197,222
     
199,888
 
Business Banking
   
5
     
15
     
-
     
20
     
665
     
57,494
     
58,179
 
 
   
5
     
15
     
-
     
20
     
6,340
     
326,971
     
333,331
 
 
                                                       
Consumer Loans
                                                       
Indirect
   
518
     
5
     
54
     
577
     
106
     
64,540
     
65,223
 
Home Equity
   
190
     
60
     
5
     
255
     
557
     
75,904
     
76,716
 
Direct
   
31
     
-
     
7
     
38
     
33
     
5,246
     
5,317
 
     
739
     
65
     
66
     
870
     
696
     
145,690
     
147,256
 
Residential Real Estate Mortgages
   
1,162
     
265
     
671
     
2,098
     
3,193
     
261,456
     
266,747
 
 
 
$
1,906
   
$
345
   
$
737
   
$
2,988
   
$
10,229
   
$
734,117
   
$
747,334
 
Total Loans
 
$
27,402
   
$
6,150
   
$
4,941
   
$
38,493
   
$
41,074
   
$
5,515,704
   
$
5,595,271
 


There were no material commitments to extend further credit to borrowers with nonperforming loans.
 
Impaired Loans
The methodology used to establish the allowance for loan losses on impaired loans incorporates specific allocations on loans analyzed individually.  Classified and nonperforming loans with outstanding balances of $0.5 million or more and all troubled debt restructured loans ("TDRs")  are evaluated for impairment through the Company's quarterly status review process.  In determining that we will be unable to collect all principal and interest payments due in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan agreements, we consider factors such as payment history and changes in the financial condition of individual borrowers, local economic conditions, historical loss experience and the conditions of the various markets in which the collateral may be liquidated.  For loans that are impaired as defined by accounting standards, impairment is measured by one of three methods: 1) the fair value of collateral less cost to sell, 2) present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's original effective interest rate or 3) the loan's observable market price.  All impaired loans are reviewed on a quarterly basis for changes in the measurement of impairment.  Any change to the previously recognized impairment loss is recognized as a change to the allowance account and recorded in the consolidated statement of income as a component of the provision for loan losses.

The following table provides information on loans specifically evaluated for impairment as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:
 
 
 
March 31, 2015
   
December 31, 2014
 
(in thousands)
 
Recorded
Investment
Balance (Book)
   
Unpaid
Principal
Balance (Legal)
 
Related
Allowance
   
Recorded
Investment
Balance (Book)
   
Unpaid
Principal
Balance (Legal)
 
Related
Allowance
 
ORIGINATED
 
   
 
   
   
 
 
With no related allowance recorded:
 
   
 
   
   
 
 
Commercial Loans
 
   
 
   
   
 
 
Commercial
 
$
1,628
   
$
1,781
     
$
1,748
   
$
1,901
   
Commercial Real Estate
   
4,227
     
4,238
 
     
4,505
     
4,520
 
 
Agricultural
   
19
     
25
 
     
20
     
26
 
 
Agricultural Real Estate
   
633
     
759
 
     
1,147
     
1,441
 
 
Business Banking
   
869
     
910
 
     
896
     
1,301
 
 
Total Commercial Loans
   
7,376
     
7,713
 
     
8,316
     
9,189
 
 
 
               
                 
 
Consumer Loans
               
                 
 
Indirect
   
17
     
26
       
-
     
-
   
Home Equity
   
6,403
     
7,056
 
     
5,498
     
6,033
 
 
       Direct
   
3
     
3
       
-
     
-
   
    Total Consumer Loans
   
6,423
     
7,085
       
5,498
     
6,033
   
 
               
                 
 
Residential Real Estate Mortgages
   
4,269
     
4,742
       
3,544
     
3,959
   
Total
   
18,068
     
19,540
 
     
17,358
     
19,181
 
 
 
                                   
With an allowance recorded:
               
                 
 
Commercial Loans
               
                 
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
4,877
     
6,725
   
$
1,100
     
2,763
     
4,611
    $
600
 
                                                 
ACQUIRED
                                               
With no related allowance recorded:
                                               
Commercial Loans
                                               
Commercial Real Estate
   
5,935
     
7,109
             
2,666
     
3,830
         
                                                 
With an allowance recorded:
                                               
Commercial Loans
                                               
Commercial
   
2,508
     
4,668
     
1,000
     
3,009
     
4,668
     
500
 
          Commercial Real Estate
   
1,329
     
1,329
     
850
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
    Total Commercial Loans
   
3,837
     
5,997
     
1,850
     
3,009
     
4,668
     
500
 
                                                 
Total:
 
$
32,717
   
$
39,371
   
$
2,950
   
$
25,796
   
$
32,290
   
$
1,100
 
 
The following tables summarize the average recorded investments on impaired loans specifically evaluated for impairment and the interest income recognized for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014:
 
 
 
For the three months ended
 
 
 
March 31, 2015
   
March 31, 2014
 
(in thousands)
 
Average Recorded Investment
   
Interest Income Recognized
   
Average Recorded Investment
   
Interest Income Recognized
 
ORIGINATED
 
   
   
   
 
Commercial Loans
 
   
   
   
 
Commercial
 
$
1,689
   
$
25
   
$
2,038
   
$
-
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
9,125
     
41
     
11,553
     
42
 
Agricultural
   
20
     
-
     
125
     
-
 
Agricultural Real Estate
   
636
     
11
     
1,424
     
12
 
Business Banking
   
873
     
4
     
185
     
12
 
Consumer Loans
                               
Indirect
   
9
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Home Equity
   
6,388
     
72
     
4,282
     
43
 
Direct
   
2
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Residential Real Estate Mortgage
   
4,265
     
30
     
2,727
     
23
 
Total Originated
 
$
23,007
   
$
183
   
$
22,334
   
$
132
 
ACQUIRED
                               
Commercial Loans
                               
Commercial
   
2,883
     
-
     
6,436
     
-
 
Commercial Real Estate
   
7,136
     
-
     
3,524
     
-
 
Total Acquired
 
$
10,019
   
$
-
   
$
9,960
   
$
-
 
Total Loans
 
$
33,026
   
$
183
   
$
32,294
   
$
132
 
 
Credit Quality Indicators
The Company has developed an internal loan grading system to evaluate and quantify the Company's loan portfolio with respect to quality and risk.  The system focuses on, among other things, financial strength of borrowers, experience and depth of borrower's management, primary and secondary sources of repayment, payment history, nature of the business, and outlook on particular industries.  The internal grading system enables the Company to monitor the quality of the entire loan portfolio on a consistent basis and provide management with an early warning system, enabling recognition and response to problem loans and potential problem loans.
 
Commercial Grading System
For commercial and agricultural loans, the Company uses a grading system that relies on quantifiable and measurable characteristics when available.  This would include comparison of financial strength to available industry averages, comparison of transaction factors (loan terms and conditions) to loan policy, and comparison of credit history to stated repayment terms and industry averages. Some grading factors are necessarily more subjective such as economic and industry factors, regulatory environment, and management.  Classified commercial loans consist of loans graded substandard and below.  The grading system for commercial and agricultural loans is as follows:

Doubtful
A doubtful loan has a high probability of total or substantial loss, but because of specific pending events that may strengthen the asset, its classification as a loss is deferred. Doubtful borrowers are usually in default, lack adequate liquidity or capital, and lack the resources necessary to remain an operating entity. Pending events can include mergers, acquisitions, liquidations, capital injections, the perfection of liens on additional collateral, the valuation of collateral, and refinancing. Generally, pending events should be resolved within a relatively short period and the ratings will be adjusted based on the new information. Nonaccrual treatment is required for doubtful assets because of the high probability of loss.
 
Substandard
Substandard loans have a high probability of payment default, or they have other well-defined weaknesses. They require more intensive supervision by bank management. Substandard loans are generally characterized by current or expected unprofitable operations, inadequate debt service coverage, inadequate liquidity, or marginal capitalization. Repayment may depend on collateral or other credit risk mitigants. For some Substandard loans, the likelihood of full collection of interest and principal may be in doubt and those loans should be placed on nonaccrual. Although Substandard assets in the aggregate will have a distinct potential for loss, an individual asset's loss potential does not have to be distinct for the asset to be rated Substandard.
 
Special Mention
Special Mention loans have potential weaknesses that may, if not checked or corrected, weaken the asset or inadequately protect the Company's position at some future date. These loans pose elevated risk, but their weakness does not yet justify a Substandard classification. Borrowers may be experiencing adverse operating trends (declining revenues or margins) or may be struggling with an ill-proportioned balance sheet (e.g., increasing inventory without an increase in sales, high leverage, tight liquidity). Adverse economic or market conditions, such as interest rate increases or the entry of a new competitor, may also support a Special Mention rating. Although a Special Mention loan has a higher probability of default than a pass asset, its default is not imminent.
 
Pass
Loans graded as Pass encompass all loans not graded as Doubtful, Substandard, or Special Mention.  Pass loans are in compliance with loan covenants, and payments are generally made as agreed.  Pass loans range from superior quality to fair quality.
 
Business Banking Grading System
Business banking loans are graded as either Classified or Non-classified:
Classified
Classified loans are inadequately protected by the current worth and paying capacity of the obligor or, if applicable, the collateral pledged.   These loans have a well-defined weakness, or weaknesses, that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt, or in some cases make collection or liquidation in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.   Classified loans have a high probability of payment default, or a high probability of total or substantial loss.  These loans require more intensive supervision by management and are generally characterized by current or expected unprofitable operations, inadequate debt service coverage, inadequate liquidity, or marginal capitalization.  Repayment may depend on collateral or other credit risk mitigants.  When the likelihood of full collection of interest and principal may be in doubt; classified loans are considered to have a nonaccrual status.   In some cases, Classified loans are considered uncollectible and of such little value that their continuance as assets is not warranted.
 
Non-classified
Loans graded as Non-classified encompass all loans not graded as Classified.  Non-classified loans are in compliance with loan covenants, and payments are generally made as agreed and it is expected that such timely payments of principal and interest will continue.
 
Consumer and Residential Mortgage Grading System
Consumer and Residential Mortgage loans are graded as either Performing or Nonperforming.   Nonperforming loans are loans that are 1) over 90 days past due and interest is still accruing, 2) on nonaccrual status or 3) restructured.  All loans not meeting any of these three criteria are considered Performing.
 
The following tables illustrate the Company's credit quality by loan class as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:
 
Credit Quality Indicators
As of March 31, 2015
 
ORIGINATED
 
   
   
   
   
 
Commercial Credit Exposure
By Internally Assigned Grade:
 
Commercial
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Agricultural
   
Agricultural
Real Estate
   
Total
 
Pass
 
$
584,916
   
$
1,036,469
   
$
29,781
   
$
22,916
   
$
1,674,082
 
Special Mention
   
15,872
     
19,820
     
117
     
3
     
35,812
 
Substandard
   
20,725
     
26,330
     
2,103
     
1,612
     
50,770
 
Doubtful
   
-
     
-
     
8
     
-
     
8
 
Total
 
$
621,513
   
$
1,082,619
   
$
32,009
   
$
24,531
   
$
1,760,672
 
 
                                       
Business Banking Credit Exposure
By Internally Assigned Grade:
 
Business
Banking
                           
Total
 
Non-classified
 
$
379,306
                           
$
379,306
 
Classified
   
19,084
                             
19,084
 
Total
 
$
398,390
                           
$
398,390
 
 
                                       
Consumer Credit Exposure
By Payment Activity:
 
Indirect
   
Home Equity
   
Direct
           
Total
 
Performing
 
$
1,341,795
   
$
474,651
   
$
53,428
           
$
1,869,874
 
Nonperforming
   
3,778
     
6,644
     
152
             
10,574
 
Total
 
$
1,345,573
   
$
481,295
   
$
53,580
           
$
1,880,448
 
 
                                       
Residential Mortgage Credit Exposure
By Payment Activity:
 
Residential Mortgage
                           
Total
 
Performing
 
$
856,970
                           
$
856,970
 
Nonperforming
   
7,773
                             
7,773
 
Total
 
$
864,743
                           
$
864,743
 
 
 
Credit Quality Indicators
As of March 31, 2015
 
ACQUIRED
 
   
   
   
 
Commercial Credit Exposure By Internally Assigned Grade:
 
Commercial
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
 
   
Total
 
Pass
 
$
64,904
   
$
181,277
   
 
 
   
$
246,181
 
Special Mention
   
2,662
     
2,620
     
 
     
5,282
 
Substandard
   
5,003
     
13,868
     
 
     
18,871
 
Total
 
$
72,569
   
$
197,765
   
 
 
   
$
270,334
 
 
                               
Business Banking Credit Exposure By Internally Assigned Grade:
 
Business
Banking
                   
Total
 
Non-classified
 
$
50,222
                   
$
50,222
 
Classified
   
4,682
                     
4,682
 
Total
 
$
54,904
                   
$
54,904
 
 
                               
Consumer Credit Exposure By Payment Activity:
 
Indirect
   
Home Equity
   
Direct
   
Total
 
Performing
 
$
53,964
   
$
73,291
   
$
4,778
   
$
132,033
 
Nonperforming
   
183
     
427
     
32
     
642
 
Total
 
$
54,147
   
$
73,718
   
$
4,810
   
$
132,675
 
 
                               
Residential Mortgage Credit Exposure By Payment Activity:
 
Residential Mortgage
                   
Total
 
Performing
 
$
257,756
                   
$
257,756
 
Nonperforming
   
3,101
                     
3,101
 
Total
 
$
260,857
                   
$
260,857
 
 
 
Credit Quality Indicators
As of December 31, 2014
 
ORIGINATED
 
   
   
   
   
 
Commercial Credit Exposure By Internally Assigned Grade:
 
Commercial
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Agricultural
   
Agricultural
Real Estate
   
Total
 
Pass
 
$
570,884
   
$
1,023,856
   
$
30,481
   
$
23,443
   
$
1,648,664
 
Special Mention
   
6,022
     
17,341
     
275
     
42
     
23,680
 
Substandard
   
38,241
     
27,671
     
2,183
     
1,489
     
69,584
 
Doubtful
   
-
     
-
     
8
     
-
     
8
 
Total
 
$
615,147
   
$
1,068,868
   
$
32,947
   
$
24,974
   
$
1,741,936
 
 
                                       
Business Banking Credit Exposure By Internally Assigned Grade:
 
Business
Banking
                           
Total
 
Non-classified
 
$
379,445
                           
$
379,445
 
Classified
   
18,990
                             
18,990
 
Total
 
$
398,435
                           
$
398,435
 
Total
                                       
Consumer Credit Exposure By Payment Activity:
 
Indirect
   
Home Equity
   
Direct
           
Total
 
Performing
 
$
1,306,095
   
$
485,463
   
$
55,658
           
$
1,847,216
 
Nonperforming
   
3,955
     
7,417
     
136
             
11,508
 
Total
 
$
1,310,050
   
$
492,880
   
$
55,794
           
$
1,858,724
 
 
                                       
Residential Mortgage Credit Exposure By Payment Activity:
 
Residential Mortgage
                           
Total
 
Performing
 
$
838,816
                           
$
838,816
 
Nonperforming
   
10,026
                             
10,026
 
Total
 
$
848,842
                           
$
848,842
 
 
 
Credit Quality Indicators
As of December 31, 2014
 
ACQUIRED
 
   
   
   
 
Commercial Credit Exposure By Internally Assigned Grade:
 
Commercial
   
Commercial
Real Estate
       
Total
 
Pass
 
$
63,630
   
$
186,036
   
 
 
   
$
249,666
 
Special Mention
   
2,840
     
2,646
     
 
     
5,486
 
Substandard
   
8,794
     
11,206
     
 
     
20,000
 
Total
 
$
75,264
   
$
199,888
   
 
 
   
$
275,152
 
 
                               
Business Banking Credit Exposure By Internally Assigned Grade:
 
Business
Banking
                   
Total
 
Non-classified
 
$
53,264
                   
$
53,264
 
Classified
   
4,915
                     
4,915
 
Total
 
$
58,179
                   
$
58,179
 
 
                               
Consumer Credit Exposure By Payment Activity:
 
Indirect
   
Home Equity
   
Direct
   
Total
 
Performing
 
$
65,063
   
$
76,154
   
$
5,277
   
$
146,494
 
Nonperforming
   
160
     
562
     
40
     
762
 
Total
 
$
65,223
   
$
76,716
   
$
5,317
   
$
147,256
 
 
                               
Residential Mortgage Credit Exposure By Payment Activity:
 
Residential Mortgage
                   
Total
 
Performing
 
$
262,883
                   
$
262,883
 
Nonperforming
   
3,864
                     
3,864
 
Total
 
$
266,747
                   
$
266,747
 
   
Troubled Debt Restructured Loans
The Company's loan portfolio includes certain loans that have been modified where economic concessions have been granted to borrowers who have experienced or are expected to experience financial difficulties.  These concessions typically result from the Company's loss mitigation activities and could include reductions in the interest rate, payment extensions, forgiveness of principal, forbearance or other actions.  Certain TDRs are classified as nonperforming at the time of restructure and may only be returned to performing status after considering the borrower's sustained repayment performance for a reasonable period, generally six months.  Substantially all of these modifications included one or a combination of the following: an extension of the maturity date at a stated rate of interest lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk; temporary reduction in the interest rate; or change in scheduled payment amount.
 
When the Company modifies a loan, management evaluates any possible impairment based on the present value of the expected future cash flows, discounted at the contractual interest rate of the original loan agreement, except when the sole (remaining) source of repayment for the loan is the operation or liquidation of the collateral.  In these cases, management uses the current fair value of the collateral, less selling costs, instead of discounted cash flows.  If management determines that the value of the modified loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan (net of previous charge-offs, deferred loan fees or costs and unamortized premium or discount), impairment is recognized through an allowance estimate or a charge-off to the allowance.  
 
TDRs that occurred during the three month period ending March 31, 2015 consisted of five home equity loans totaling $0.1 million, fifteen direct consumer loans totaling $1.2 million, and nine residential real estate mortgages totaling $0.8 million.  For all such modifications, the pre and post outstanding recorded investment amount remained substantially unchanged. During the three month period ending March 31, 2015 there was one default on a home equity loan TDR totaling $8,000 and four defaults on direct loans TDR totaling $0.2 million.

TDRs that occurred during the three month period ending March 31, 2014 consisted of twenty-two home equity loans totaling $1.1 million and twelve residential real estate mortgages totaling $1.0 million.  For all such modifications, the pre and post outstanding recorded investment amount remained unchanged. During the three month period ending March 31, 2014 there was one default on a home equity loan TDR totaling $11,000 and one default on a residential real estate mortgage totaling $0.1 million.
 

Note 5. Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans
 
The Company has a qualified, noncontributory, defined benefit pension plan ("the Plan") covering substantially all of its employees at March 31, 2015.  Benefits paid from the plan are based on age, years of service, compensation and social security benefits, and are determined in accordance with defined formulas. The Company's policy is to fund the pension plan in accordance with Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA") standards. Assets of the plan are invested in publicly traded stocks and bonds.  The Company is not required to make contributions to the Plan in 2015, and did not do so during the three months ended March 31, 2015.
 
Market conditions can result in an unusually high degree of volatility and increase the risks and short term liquidity associated with certain investments held by the Plan which could impact the value of these investments.

In addition to the Plan, the Company also provides supplemental employee retirement plans to certain current and former executives.  These supplemental employee retirement plans and the Plan are collectively referred to herein as "Pension Benefits."

Also, the Company provides certain health care benefits for retired employees.  Benefits are accrued over the employees' active service period. Only employees that were employed by the Company on or before January 1, 2000 are eligible to receive postretirement health care benefits.  In addition, the Company assumed post-retirement medical life insurance benefits for certain Alliance employees, retirees and their spouses, if applicable, in the Alliance acquisition.  These postretirement benefits are referred to herein as "Other Benefits."  The components of expense for Pension Benefits and Other Benefits are set forth below (in thousands):
 
The components of expense for Pension Benefits and Other Benefits are set forth below (in thousands):
 
 
Pension Benefits
 
Other Benefits
 
 
Three months ended March 31,
 
Three months ended March 31,
 
Components of net periodic cost (benefit):
2015
 
2014
 
2015
 
2014
 
Service cost
 
$
655
   
$
587
   
$
4
   
$
4
 
Interest cost
   
998
     
1,040
     
91
     
90
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(2,150
)
   
(2,175
)
   
-
     
-
 
Net amortization
   
546
     
25
     
15
     
(6
)
Total cost (benefit)
 
$
49
   
$
(523
)
 
$
110
   
$
88
 
 
Note 6. Earnings Per Share
 
Basic earnings per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the entity (such as the Company's dilutive stock options and restricted stock units).
 
The following is a reconciliation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the periods presented in the consolidated statements of income.
 
Three months ended March 31,
 
2015
   
2014
 
(in thousands, except per share data)
 
   
 
Basic EPS:
 
   
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
   
44,153
     
43,762
 
Net income available to common shareholders
   
18,166
     
18,009
 
Basic EPS
 
$
0.41
   
$
0.41
 
                 
Diluted EPS:
               
Weighted average common shares outstanding
   
44,153
     
43,762
 
Dilutive effect of common stock options and restricted stock
   
489
     
505
 
Weighted average common shares and common share equivalents
   
44,642
     
44,267
 
Net income available to common shareholders
   
18,166
     
18,009
 
Diluted EPS
 
$
0.41
   
$
0.41
 
 
There were 461,611 and 479,543 stock options for the quarters ended March 31, 2015 and March 31, 2014, respectively, that were not considered in the calculation of diluted earnings per share since the stock options' exercise price was greater than the average market price during these periods.
 

Note 7. Reclassification Adjustments Out of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table summarizes the reclassification adjustments out of accumulated other comprehensive loss (in thousands):
 
Detail About Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Components
 
Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
 
Affected line item in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income
 
 
Three months ended
 
 
 
 
March 31, 2015
 
March 31, 2014
 
 
Available for sale securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gains on available for sale securities
 
$
(14)
 
$
(7)
 
Net securities gains
Amortization of unrealized gains and losses related to securities transfer
   
307
   
-
 
Interest income
Tax benefit
 
 
(98)
 
 
3
 
Income tax expense
Net of tax
 
$
195
 
$
(4)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension and other benefits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of net losses
 
$
565
 
$
74
 
Salaries and employee benefits
Amortization of prior service costs
 
 
(5)
 
 
(55)
 
Salaries and employee benefits
Tax benefit
 
 
218
 
 
8
 
Income tax expense
Net of tax
 
$
342
 
$
11
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total reclassifications during the period, net of tax
 
$
537
 
$
7
 
 
 
Note 8. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
U.S. GAAP states that fair value is an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.  Fair value measurements are not adjusted for transaction costs.  A fair value hierarchy exists within U.S. GAAP that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:
 
Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;
 
Level 2 -  Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability;
 
Level 3 - Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity).
 
A financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
 
The types of instruments valued based on quoted market prices in active markets include most U.S. government and agency securities, many other sovereign government obligations, liquid mortgage products, active listed equities and most money market securities. Such instruments are generally classified within level 1 or level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.  The Company does not adjust the quoted price for such instruments.
 
The types of instruments valued based on quoted prices in markets that are not active, broker or dealer quotations, or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency include most investment-grade and high-yield corporate bonds, less liquid mortgage products, less liquid agency securities, less liquid listed equities, state, municipal and provincial obligations, and certain physical commodities. Such instruments are generally classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
Level 3 is for positions that are not traded in active markets or are subject to transfer restrictions, valuations are adjusted to reflect illiquidity and/or non-transferability, and such adjustments are generally based on available market evidence. In the absence of such evidence, management's best estimate will be used. Management's best estimate consists of both internal and external support on certain Level 3 investments. Subsequent to inception, management only changes level 3 inputs and assumptions when corroborated by evidence such as transactions in similar instruments, completed or pending third-party transactions in the underlying investment or comparable entities, subsequent rounds of financing, recapitalizations and other transactions across the capital structure, offerings in the equity or debt markets, and changes in financial ratios or cash flows.
 
For the three month period ending March 31, 2015, the Company has made no transfers of assets between Level 1 and Level 2, and has had no Level 3 activity.
The following tables set forth the Company's financial assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis that were accounted for at fair value.  Assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement (in thousands):
 
March 31, 2015:
 
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
   
Balance as of
March 31, 2015
 
Assets:
 
   
   
   
 
Securities Available for Sale:
 
   
   
   
 
U.S. Treasury
 
$
13,056
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
13,056
 
Federal Agency
   
-
     
402,751
     
-
     
402,751
 
State & municipal
   
-
     
38,423
     
-
     
38,423
 
Mortgage-backed
   
-
     
347,803
     
-
     
347,803
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations
   
-
     
254,074
     
-
     
254,074
 
Other securities
   
7,641
     
7,906
     
-
     
15,547
 
Total Securities Available for Sale
 
$
20,697
   
$
1,050,957
   
$
-
   
$
1,071,654
 
Trading Securities
   
8,265
     
-
     
-
     
8,265
 
Interest Rate Swaps
   
-
     
6,833
     
-
     
6,833
 
Total
 
$
28,962
   
$
1,057,790
   
$
-
   
$
1,086,752
 
 
                               
Liabilities:
                               
Interest Rate Swaps
 
$
-
   
$
6,833
   
$
-
   
$
6,833
 
Total
 
$
-
   
$
6,833
   
$
-
   
$
6,833
 
 
December 31, 2014:
 
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
   
Balance as of December 31, 2014
 
Assets:
 
   
   
   
 
Securities Available for Sale:
 
   
   
   
 
U.S. Treasury
 
$
23,111
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
23,111
 
Federal Agency
   
-
     
329,914
     
-
     
329,914
 
State & municipal
   
-
     
37,570
     
-
     
37,570
 
Mortgage-backed
   
-
     
364,727
     
-
     
364,727
 
Collateralized mortgage obligations
   
-
     
242,129
     
-
     
242,129
 
Other securities
   
7,612
     
8,108
     
-
     
15,720
 
Total Securities Available for Sale
 
$
30,723
   
$
982,448
   
$
-
   
$
1,013,171
 
Trading Securities
   
7,793
     
-
     
-
     
7,793
 
Interest Rate Swaps
   
-
     
4,707
     
-
     
4,707
 
Total
 
$
38,516
   
$
987,155
   
$
-
   
$
1,025,671
 
 
                               
Liabilities:
                               
Interest Rate Swaps
 
$
-
   
$
4,707
   
$
-
   
$
4,707
 
Total
 
$
-
   
$
4,707
   
$
-
   
$
4,707
 
 
Certain common equity securities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 1 inputs (exchange quoted prices).  The majority of the other investment securities are reported at fair value utilizing Level 2 inputs.  The prices for these instruments are obtained through an independent pricing service or dealer market participants with whom the Company has historically transacted both purchases and sales of investment securities.  Prices obtained from these sources include prices derived from market quotations and matrix pricing.  The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond's terms and conditions, among other things.  Management reviews the methodologies used in pricing the securities by its third party providers. 

U.S. GAAP requires disclosure of assets and liabilities measured and recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis such as goodwill, loans held for sale, other real estate owned, collateral-dependent impaired loans, mortgage servicing rights, and held-to-maturity securities.  The only nonrecurring fair value measurements recorded during the three month period ended March 31, 2015 were related to impaired loans.  For the three month periods ending March 31, 2015 and March 31, 2014, the Company had $8.7 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of loans recorded at fair value resulting in specific allowance reserves of $3.0 million and $0.9 million, respectively.  The Company uses the fair value of underlying collateral, less costs to sell, to estimate the specific reserves for collateral dependent impaired loans.  The appraisals may be adjusted by management for qualitative factors such as economic conditions and estimated liquidation expenses ranging from 10% to 35%.  Based on the valuation techniques used, the fair value measurements for collateral dependent impaired loans are classified as Level 3.

The following table sets forth information with regard to estimated fair values of financial instruments at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014.  This table excludes financial instruments for which the carrying amount approximates fair value.  Financial instruments for which the fair value approximates carrying value include cash and cash equivalents, securities available for sale, trading securities, accrued interest receivable, non-maturity deposits, short-term borrowings, accrued interest payable, and interest rate swaps.
 
 
 
   
March 31, 2015
   
December 31, 2014
 
(In thousands)
 
Fair Value Hierarchy
   
Carrying amount
   
Estimated fair value
   
Carrying amount
   
Estimated fair value
 
Financial assets
 
   
   
   
   
 
Securities held to maturity
   
2
   
$
456,773
   
$
461,224
   
$
454,361
   
$
454,994
 
Net loans
   
3
     
5,557,664
     
5,614,078
     
5,528,912
     
5,584,777
 
Financial liabilities
                                       
Time deposits
   
2
   
$
996,437
   
$
993,633
   
$
1,043,823
   
$
1,038,877
 
Long-term debt
   
2
     
130,775
     
133,064
     
130,945
     
132,562
 
Junior subordinated debt
   
2
     
101,196
     
106,273
     
101,196
     
103,770
 

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company's entire holdings of a particular financial instrument. Because no market exists for a significant portion of the Company's financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.
 
Fair value estimates are based on existing on and off balance sheet financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments. For example, the Company has a substantial trust and investment management operation that contributes net fee income annually. The trust and investment management operation is not considered a financial instrument, and its value has not been incorporated into the fair value estimates. Other significant assets and liabilities include the benefits resulting from the low-cost funding of deposit liabilities as compared to the cost of borrowing funds in the market, and premises and equipment. In addition, the tax ramifications related to the realization of the unrealized gains and losses can have a significant effect on fair value estimates and have not been considered in the estimate of fair value.

Securities Held to Maturity
The fair value of the Company's investment securities held to maturity is primarily measured using information from a third party pricing service.  The fair value measurements consider observable data that may include dealer quotes, market spreads, cash flows, the U.S. Treasury yield curve, live trading levels, trade execution data, market consensus prepayment speeds, credit information and the bond's terms and conditions, among other things.
 
Net Loans
The fair value of the Company's loans was estimated by discounting the expected future cash flows using the current interest rates at which similar loans would be made for the same remaining maturities.  Loans were first segregated by type, and then further segmented into fixed and variable rate and loan quality categories.  Expected future cash flows were projected based on contractual cash flows, adjusted for estimated prepayments.
 
Time Deposits
The fair value of time deposits was estimated using a discounted cash flow approach that applies prevailing market interest rates for similar maturity instruments.  The fair values of the Company's time deposit liabilities do not take into consideration the value of the Company's long-term relationships with depositors, which may have significant value.
 
Long-Term Debt
The fair value of long-term debt was estimated using a discounted cash flow approach that applies prevailing market interest rates for similar maturity instruments.
 
Junior Subordinated Debt
The fair value of junior subordinated debt has been estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis.

 
Note 9. Commitments and Contingencies
 
The Company is a party to financial instruments in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers and to reduce its own exposure to fluctuating interest rates. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit, unused lines of credit, and standby letters of credit. Exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to make loans and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Company uses the same credit origination guidelines, portfolio maintenance and management procedures as other credit and off-balance sheet products.  Commitments to extend credit and unused lines of credit totaled $1.2 billion at March 31, 2015 and $1.2 billion at December 31, 2014.  Since commitments to extend credit and unused lines of credit may expire without being fully drawn upon, this amount does not necessarily represent future cash commitments. Collateral obtained upon exercise of the commitment is determined using management's credit evaluation of the borrower and may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, land and other items.
 
The Company guarantees the obligations or performance of customers by issuing standby letters of credit to third parties. These standby letters of credit are frequently issued in support of third party debt, such as corporate debt issuances, industrial revenue bonds and municipal securities. The credit risk involved in issuing standby letters of credit is essentially the same as the credit risk involved in extending loan facilities to customers, and they are subject to the same credit origination guidelines, portfolio maintenance and management procedures as other credit and off-balance sheet products. Typically, these instruments have terms of five years or less and expire unused; therefore, the total amounts do not necessarily represent future cash commitments. Standby letters of credit totaled $35.4 million at March 31, 2015 and $35.2 million at December 31, 2014.  As of March 31, 2015, the fair value of standby letters of credit was not significant to the Company's consolidated financial statements.
 
The Company has also entered into commercial letter of credit agreements on behalf of its customers.  Under these agreements, the Company, on the request of its customer, opens the letter of credit and makes a commitment to honor draws made under the agreement, whereby the beneficiary is normally the provider of goods and/or services and the Company essentially replaces the customer as the payee.  The credit risk involved in issuing commercial letters of credit is essentially the same as the credit risk involved in extending loan facilities to customers, and they are subject to the same credit origination guidelines, portfolio maintenance and management procedures as other credit and off-balance sheet products.  Typically, these agreements vary in terms and the total amounts do not necessarily represent future cash commitments.  Commercial letters of credit totaled $10.9 million at March 31, 2015 and $22.5 million at December 31, 2014.  As of March 31, 2015, the fair value of commercial letters of credit was not significant to the Company's consolidated financial statements.
 

NBT BANCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Item 2 -- MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
The purpose of this discussion and analysis is to provide a concise description of the financial condition and results of operations of NBT Bancorp Inc. and its wholly owned consolidated subsidiaries, NBT Bank, N.A. (the "Bank"), NBT Financial Services, Inc. ("NBT Financial"), and NBT Holdings, Inc. ("NBT Holdings") (collectively referred to herein as the "Company"). This discussion will focus on results of operations, financial condition, capital resources and asset/liability management. Reference should be made to the Company's consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in this Form 10Q as well as to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10K for the year ended December 31, 2014 for an understanding of the following discussion and analysis.  Operating results for the three-month period ending March 31, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results of the full year ending December 31, 2015 or any future period.

Forward-looking Statements
Certain statements in this filing and future filings by the Company with the SEC, in the Company's press releases or other public or shareholder communications, or in oral statements made with the approval of an authorized executive officer, contain forward-looking statements, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act. These statements may be identified by the use of phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "expect," "forecasts,"  "projects,"  "will,"  "can," "would," "should," "could," "may," or other similar terms. There are a number of factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements include, among others, the following possibilities: (1) local, regional, national and international economic conditions and the impact they may have on the Company and its customers and the Company's assessment of that impact; (2) changes in the level of non-performing assets and charge-offs; (3) changes in estimates of future reserve requirements based upon the periodic review thereof under relevant regulatory and accounting requirements; (4) the effects of and changes in trade and monetary and fiscal policies and laws, including the interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve Board; (5) inflation, interest rate, securities market and monetary fluctuations; (6) political instability; (7) acts of war or terrorism; (8) the timely development and acceptance of new products and services and perceived overall value of these products and services by users; (9) changes in consumer spending, borrowings and savings habits; (10) changes in the financial performance and/or condition of the Company's borrowers; (11) technological changes; (12) acquisitions and integration of acquired businesses; (13) the ability to increase market share and control expenses; (14) changes in the competitive environment among financial holding companies; (15) the effect of changes in laws and regulations (including laws and regulations concerning taxes, banking, securities and insurance) with which the Company and its subsidiaries must comply including those under the Dodd-Frank Act; (16) the effect of changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the regulatory agencies, as well as the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, the Financial Accounting Standards Board and other accounting standard setters; (17) changes in the Company's organization, compensation and benefit plans; (18) the costs and effects of legal and regulatory developments including the resolution of legal proceedings or regulatory or other governmental inquiries and the results of regulatory examinations or reviews; (19) greater than expected costs or difficulties related to the integration of new products and lines of business; and (20) the Company's success at managing the risks involved in the foregoing items.

The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made, and advises readers that various factors, including those described above and other factors discussed in the Company's annual and quarterly reports previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, could affect the Company's financial performance and could cause the Company's actual results or circumstances for future periods to differ materially from those anticipated or projected.
 
Unless required by law, the Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligations to publicly release any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

Non-GAAP Measures
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains financial information determined by methods other than in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP).  These measures adjust GAAP measures to exclude the effects of sales of securities and certain non-recurring and merger-related expenses.  Where non-GAAP disclosures are used in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the comparable GAAP measure, as well as a reconciliation to the comparable GAAP measure, is provided in the accompanying tables.  Management believes that these non-GAAP measures provide useful information that is important to an understanding of the operating results of the Company's core business due to the non-recurring nature of the excluded items.  Non-GAAP measures should not be considered substitutes for financial measures determined in accordance with GAAP and investors should consider the Company's performance and financial condition as reported under GAAP and all other relevant information when assessing the performance or financial condition of the Company.

Critical Accounting Policies
The Company has identified policies as being critical because they require management to make particularly difficult, subjective and/or complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain and because of the likelihood that materially different amounts would be reported under different conditions or using different assumptions. These policies relate to the allowance for loan losses, pension accounting, other-than-temporary impairment, provision for income taxes and intangible assets.

Management  of  the  Company  considers  the  accounting  policy relating to the allowance for loan losses to be a critical accounting policy given the uncertainty  in  evaluating  the level of the allowance required to cover credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio and the material effect that such judgments can have on the results of operations. While management's current evaluation of the allowance for loan losses indicates that the allowance is adequate, under adversely different conditions or assumptions, the allowance may need to be increased. For example, if historical loan loss experience significantly worsened or if current economic conditions significantly deteriorated, additional provision for loan losses would be required to increase the allowance. In addition, the assumptions and estimates used in the internal reviews of the Company's nonperforming loans and potential problem loans have a significant impact on the overall analysis of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. While management has concluded that the current evaluation of collateral values is reasonable under the circumstances, if collateral values were significantly lower, the Company's allowance for loan loss policy would also require additional provision for loan losses.

Management is required to make various assumptions in valuing the Company's pension assets and liabilities. These assumptions include the expected rate of return on plan assets, the discount rate, and the rate of increase in future compensation levels. Changes to these assumptions could impact earnings in future periods. The Company takes into account the plan asset mix, funding obligations, and expert opinions in determining the various rates used to estimate pension expense. The Company also considers the Citigroup Pension Liability Index, market interest rates and discounted cash flows in setting the appropriate discount rate. In addition, the Company reviews expected inflationary and merit increases to compensation in determining the rate of increase in future compensation levels.

Management of the Company considers the accounting policy relating to other-than-temporary impairment to be a critical accounting policy.  Management systematically evaluates certain assets for other-than-temporary declines in fair value, primarily investment securities.  Management considers historical values and current market conditions as a part of the assessment.  The amount of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to the credit loss is recognized in earnings and the amount of the total other-than-temporary impairment related to other factors is generally recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes.
 
The Company is subject to examinations from various taxing authorities.  Such examinations may result in challenges to the tax return treatment applied by the Company to specific transactions.  Management believes that the assumptions and judgments used to record tax-related assets or liabilities have been appropriate.  Should tax laws change or the taxing authorities determine that management's assumptions were inappropriate, an adjustment may be required which could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations.

Another critical accounting policy is the policy for acquired loans. Acquired loans are initially recorded at their acquisition date fair values.  The carryover of allowance for loan losses is prohibited as any credit losses in the loans are included in the determination of the fair value of the loans at the acquisition date.  Fair values for acquired loans are based on a discounted cash flow methodology that involves assumptions and judgments as to credit risk, prepayment risk, liquidity risk, default rates, loss severity, payment speeds, collateral values and discount rate.  Subsequent to the acquisition of acquired impaired loans, applicable accounting guidance requires the continued estimation of expected cash flows to be received.  This estimation involves the use of key assumptions and estimates, similar to those used in the initial estimate of fair value.  Changes in expected cash flows could result in the recognition of impairment through provision for credit losses.   Subsequent to the purchase date, the methods utilized to estimate the required allowance for loan losses for the non-impaired acquired loans is similar to originated loans.

As a result of acquisitions, the Company has acquired goodwill and identifiable intangible assets.  Goodwill represents the cost of acquired companies in excess of the fair value of net assets at the acquisition date.  Goodwill is evaluated at least annually or when business conditions suggest that an impairment may have occurred.  Goodwill will be reduced to its carrying value through a charge to earnings if impairment exists.  Core deposits and other identifiable intangible assets are amortized to expense over their estimated useful lives.  The determination of whether or not impairment exists is based upon discounted cash flow modeling techniques that require management to make estimates regarding the amount and timing of expected future cash flows.  It also requires them to select a discount rate that reflects the current return requirements of the market in relation to present risk-free interest rates, required equity market premiums and Company-specific risk indicators, all of which are susceptible to change based on changes in economic conditions and other factors.  Future events or changes in the estimates used to determine the carrying value of goodwill and identifiable intangible assets could have a material impact on the Company's results of operations.

The Company's policies on the allowance for loan losses, pension accounting, acquired loans, provision for income taxes and intangible assets are disclosed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements presented in our 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K.  All accounting policies are important, and as such, the Company encourages the reader to review each of the policies included in Note 1 to obtain a better understanding of how the Company's financial performance is reported.

Overview
Significant factors management reviews to evaluate the Company's operating results and financial condition include, but are not limited to:  net income and earnings per share, return on average assets, equity and tangible common equity, net interest margin, noninterest income, operating expenses, certain core results, asset quality indicators, loan and deposit growth, capital management, liquidity and interest rate sensitivity, enhancements to customer products and services, technology advancements, market share and peer comparisons.  The following information should be considered in connection with the Company's results for the first three months of 2015:

·
Continued positive trends in asset quality indicators
o
Past due loans to total loans improved to 0.54% at March 31, 2015 from 0.69% at December 31, 2014
o
Net charge-offs to average loans improved to 0.34% for the first quarter of 2015 from 0.70% for the fourth quarter of 2014 and 0.41% for the 2014 year

·
Net interest margin remained stable at 3.60% for the first quarter of 2015 as compared with 3.61% for both the fourth quarter and full year of 2014
 
The following table depicts several annualized measurements of performance using core and GAAP net income that management reviews in analyzing the Company's performance. Returns on average assets and average equity measure how effectively an entity utilizes its total resources and capital, respectively.

(Dollars in thousands)
 
For the three months ended
 
   
March 31,
 
   
2015
   
2014
 
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures:
       
Reported net income (GAAP)
 
$
18,166
   
$
18,009
 
Adj: (Gain) / Loss on sale of securities, net (net of tax)
   
(9
)
   
(5
)
Adj: Other adjustments (net of tax) (1) 
   
-
     
430
 
Total Adjustments
   
(9
)
   
425
 
Core net income
 
$
18,157
   
$
18,434
 
                 
Performance measures:
               
Core Return on Average Assets (2)
   
0.94
%
   
0.98
%
Return on Average Assets (2)
   
0.94
%
   
0.95
%
Core Return on Average Equity (2)
   
8.45
%
   
9.02
%
Return on Average Equity (2)
   
8.46
%
   
8.81
%
Core Return on Average Tangible Common Equity (2)(3)
   
13.07
%
   
14.48
%
Return on Average Tangible Common Equity (2)(3)
   
13.08
%
   
14.16
%
                 
(1) Primarily net gain on settlement of litigation and reorganization expenses for 2014
         
(2)  Annualized
               
(3) Excludes amortization of intangible assets (net of tax) from net income and average tangible common equity
 
            is calculated as follows:
               
                 
   
For the three months ended
 
   
March 31,
 
    2015     2014  
Average stockholders' equity
 
$
871,074
   
$
828,588
 
Less: average goodwill and other intangibles
   
283,508
     
290,019
 
Average tangible common equity
 
$
587,566
   
$
538,569
 


Results of Operations

Reported net income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was $18.2 million, up from $18.0 million for the same period last year.  Reported earnings per diluted share for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was $0.41, equivalent to the first quarter of 2014.  Core net income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was $18.2 million, down slightly from $18.4 million for the first quarter of 2014.  Core diluted earnings per share for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was $0.41, as compared with $0.42 for the first quarter of 2014.

The reported results for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 contained items which the Company considers non-core, such as securities gains and other items not considered core to our operations.

Net Interest Income
Net interest income is the difference between interest income on earning assets, primarily loans and securities, and interest expense on interest bearing liabilities, primarily deposits and borrowings.  Net interest income is affected by the interest rate spread, the difference between the yield on earning assets and cost of interest bearing liabilities, as well as the volumes of such assets and liabilities. Net interest income is one of the key determining factors in a financial institution's performance as it is the principal source of earnings.

Net interest income was $62.2 million for the first quarter of 2015, down 2.9% from the previous quarter, and up 1.1% from the first quarter of 2014.  FTE net interest margin was 3.60% for the three months ended March 31, 2015, down from 3.61% for the previous quarter, and down from 3.63% for the first quarter of 2014.  Average interest earning assets were down slightly for the first quarter of 2015 as compared to the prior quarter, and up $130.2 million, or 1.9%, from the same period in 2014.  The increase from the first quarter of 2014 was driven primarily by organic loan production during 2014.  Rate compression on earning assets, which decreased from 3.92% during the fourth quarter of 2014 to 3.89% for the first quarter of 2015, contributed to the decrease in net interest income and FTE net interest margin from the fourth quarter of 2014 to the first quarter of 2015.  This rate compression was driven by a 4 basis point ("bp") decrease in loan yields from the fourth quarter of 2014 to the first quarter of 2015.  Average interest bearing liabilities decreased $42.3 million, or 0.8%, from the fourth quarter of 2014 to the first quarter of 2015, which was driven by a decrease in average short-term borrowings for the first quarter of 2015 and the continued migration of time deposits to lower cost savings and money market deposit accounts.  The rates paid on interest bearing liabilities decreased by 2 bps over the same period and partially offset the aforementioned rate compression on earning assets.  The rate compression on interest bearing liabilities from the fourth quarter of 2014 to the first quarter of 2015 was primarily driven by decreases in the rates paid on time deposits and savings accounts.
 

Average Balances and Net Interest Income

The following tables include the condensed consolidated average balance sheet, an analysis of interest income/expense and average yield/rate for each major category of earning assets and interest bearing liabilities on a taxable equivalent basis. Interest income for tax-exempt securities and loans has been adjusted to a taxable-equivalent basis using the statutory Federal income tax rate of 35%.

          Three Months ended
                                   
(dollars in thousands)
 
Average
Balance
   
March 31, 2015
Interest
   
Yield/
Rates
   
Average
Balance
   
December 31, 2014
Interest
   
Yield/
Rates
   
Average
Balance
   
March 31, 2014
Interest
   
Yield/
Rates
 
ASSETS
                                   
Short-term interest bearing accounts
 
$
9,156
   
$
7
     
0.30
%
 
$
5,895
   
$
8
     
0.51
%
 
$
2,733
   
$
7
     
1.02
%
Securities available for sale (1)
   
1,018,880
   
 
5,084
     
2.02
%
   
1,018,505
     
5,146
     
2.00
%
   
1,381,744
     
7,185
     
2.11
%
Securities held to maturity (1) 
   
454,957
   
 
2,766
     
2.47
%
   
458,038
     
2,831
     
2.45
%
   
116,613
     
1,012
     
3.52
%
Investment in FRB and FHLB Banks
   
30,931
   
 
473
     
6.20
%
   
31,274
     
474
     
6.01
%
   
43,596
     
531
     
4.94
%
Loans (2)
   
5,586,942
   
 
59,704
     
4.33
%
   
5,603,268
     
61,779
     
4.37
%
   
5,425,938
     
60,232
     
4.50
%
 Total interest earning assets
   
7,100,866
   
$
68,034
     
3.89
%
 
$
7,116,980
   
$
70,238
     
3.92
%
 
$
6,970,624
   
$
68,967
     
4.01
%
Other assets
   
696,091
                     
709,955
                     
679,246
                 
Total assets
 
$
7,796,957
                   
$
7,826,935
                   
$
7,649,870
                 
                                                                         
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                                         
Money market deposit accounts
   
1,544,488
   
$
786
     
0.21
%
 
$
1,524,881
   
$
784
     
0.20
%
 
$
1,411,444
   
$
527
     
0.15
%
NOW deposit accounts
   
972,263
   
 
123
     
0.05
%
   
978,527
     
125
     
0.05
%
   
932,528
     
124
     
0.05
%
Savings deposits
   
1,040,031
   
 
162
     
0.06
%
   
1,017,300
     
209
     
0.08
%
   
1,000,029
     
183
     
0.07
%
Time deposits
   
1,014,904
   
 
2,502
     
1.00
%
   
1,058,615
     
2,738
     
1.03
%
   
999,579
     
2,450
     
0.99
%
  Total interest bearing deposits
 
$
4,571,686
   
$
3,573
     
0.32
%
 
$
4,579,323
   
$
3,856
     
0.33
%
 
$
4,343,580
   
$
3,284
     
0.31
%
Short-term borrowings
   
265,420
   
 
121
     
0.19
%
   
299,981
     
143
     
0.19
%
   
398,951
     
231
     
0.24
%
Junior subordinated debt
   
101,196
   
 
540
     
2.16
%
   
101,196
     
545
     
2.13
%
   
101,196
     
538
     
2.16
%
Long-term debt
   
130,879
   
 
826
     
2.56
%
   
131,000
     
846
     
2.56
%
   
308,760
     
2,507
     
3.29
%
  Total interest bearing liabilities
 
$
5,069,181
   
$
5,060
     
0.40
%
 
$
5,111,500
   
$
5,390
     
0.42
%
 
$
5,152,487
   
$
6,560
     
0.52
%
Demand deposits
   
1,770,703
                     
1,759,482
                     
1,589,865
                 
Other liabilities
   
85,999
                     
87,319
                     
78,930
                 
Stockholders' equity
   
871,074
                     
868,634
                     
828,588
                 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
7,796,957
                   
$
7,826,935
                   
$
7,649,870
                 
  Net interest income (FTE)
           
62,974
                     
64,848
                     
62,407
         
Interest rate spread
                   
3.49
%
                   
3.50
%
                   
3.49
%
Net interest margin
                   
3.60
%
                   
3.61
%
                   
3.63
%
Taxable equivalent adjustment 
         
 
808
                     
824
                     
890
         
Net interest income
         
$
62,166
                   
$
64,024
                   
$
61,517
         
                                                                         
(1) Securities are shown at average amortized cost
                                                         
(2) For purposes of these computations, nonaccrual loans are included in the average loan balances outstanding
                 
 
The following table presents changes in interest income and interest expense attributable to changes in volume (change in average balance multiplied by prior year rate), changes in rate (change in rate multiplied by prior year volume), and the net change in net interest income. The net change attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate has been allocated to each in proportion to the absolute dollar amounts of change.

Three months ended March 31,
 
  
   
  
   
  
 
   
Increase (Decrease)
         
 
 
2015 over 2014
   
   
    
 
(in thousands)
 
Volume
   
Rate
   
Total
 
             
Short-term interest bearing accounts
 
$
7
   
$
(7
)
 
$
-
 
Securities available for sale
   
(1,821
)
   
(280
)
   
(2,101
)
Securities held to maturity
   
2,139
     
(385
)
   
1,754
 
Investment in FRB and FHLB Banks
   
(175
)
   
117
     
(58
)
Loans
   
1,758
     
(2,286
)
   
(528
)
Total interest income
   
1,908
     
(2,841
)
   
(933
)
                         
Money market deposit accounts
   
53
     
206
     
259
 
NOW deposit accounts
   
5
     
(6
)
   
(1
)
Savings deposits
   
7
     
(28
)
   
(21
)
Time deposits
   
38
     
14
     
52
 
Short-term borrowings
   
(68
)
   
(42
)
   
(110
)
Trust preferred debentures
   
-
     
2
     
2
 
Long-term debt
   
(1,212
)
   
(469
)
   
(1,681
)
Total interest expense
   
(1,177
)
   
(323
)
   
(1,500
)
 
                       
Change in FTE net interest income
 
$
3,085
   
$
(2,518
)
 
$
567
 


Noninterest Income
Noninterest income is a significant source of revenue for the Company and an important factor in the Company's results of operations.  The following table sets forth information by category of noninterest income for the periods indicated:


   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2015
   
2014
 
(in thousands)
       
Insurance and other financial services revenue
 
$
6,374
   
$
6,737
 
Service charges on deposit accounts
   
4,072
     
4,369
 
ATM and debit card fees
   
4,248
     
4,072
 
Retirement plan administration fees
   
3,196
     
2,918
 
Trust
   
4,450
     
4,446
 
Bank owned life insurance
   
1,559
     
1,382
 
Net securities gains
   
14
     
7
 
Other
   
2,621
     
2,346
 
Total noninterest income
 
$
26,534
   
$
26,277
 


Noninterest income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was $26.5 million, up $0.3 million or 1.0% from the first quarter of 2014.  The increase had no significant driver but was due primarily to increases in ATM and debit card fees, retirement plan administration fees, bank owned life insurance revenue, and other noninterest income.  These increases were partially offset by a decrease in insurance and other financial services revenue primarily due to a decrease in contingency revenue for the first quarter of 2015 as compared to the first quarter of 2014.  In addition, service charges on deposit accounts decreased $0.3 million from the first quarter of 2014 to the first quarter of 2015 due to a decrease in overdraft activity during the first quarter of 2015.
Noninterest Expense
Noninterest expenses are also an important factor in the Company's results of operations.  The following table sets forth the major components of noninterest expense for the periods indicated:

   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
   
2015
   
2014
 
(in thousands)
       
Salaries and employee benefits
  $
30,182
   
$
29,534
 
Occupancy
   
6,066
     
6,226
 
Data processing and communications
   
4,103
     
4,001
 
Professional fees and outside services
   
3,497
     
3,415
 
Equipment
   
3,249
     
3,116
 
Office supplies and postage
   
1,619
     
1,685
 
FDIC expenses
   
1,198
     
1,278
 
Advertising
   
719
     
739
 
Amortization of intangible assets
   
1,284
     
1,310
 
Loan collection and other real estate owned
   
872
     
1,040
 
Other
   
4,913
     
5,173
 
Total noninterest expense
  $
57,702
    $
57,517
 

Noninterest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was $57.7 million, up $0.2 million from the first quarter of 2014.  This increase was due primarily to a $0.6 million, or 2.2%, increase in salaries and employee benefits in the first quarter of 2015 as compared with the first quarter of 2014, as well as slight increases in other noninterest expense categories.

Income Taxes
Income tax expense for the three month period ended March 31, 2015 was $9.2 million, up $0.5 million from the first quarter of 2014.  The increase from the prior period was due primarily to a lower level of tax exempt income as a percentage of total income during the first quarter of 2015.  The effective tax rate was 33.6% for the first quarter of 2015  and 32.5% for the first quarter of 2014.

ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

Securities
Total securities increased $61.4 million, or 4.2%, from December 31, 2014 to March 31, 2015 due to reinvestment of cash flows during the first quarter of 2015.  The securities portfolio represents 19.5% of total assets as of March 31, 2015 as compared to 18.9% as of December 31, 2014.
 
The following table details the composition of securities available for sale, securities held to maturity and regulatory investments for the periods indicated:

   
March 31, 2015
   
December 31, 2014
 
Mortgage-backed securities:
       
    With maturities 15 years or less
   
22
%
   
23
%
    With maturities greater than 15 years
   
1
%
   
1
%
Collateral mortgage obligations
   
36
%
   
37
%
Municipal securities
   
11
%
   
12
%
US agency notes
   
27
%
   
24
%
Other
   
3
%
   
3
%
Total
   
100
%
   
100
%

The Company's mortgage backed securities, U.S. agency notes, and collateralized mortgage obligations are all "prime/conforming" and are guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Federal Home Loan Bank, Federal Farm Credit Banks, or Ginnie Mae ("GNMA").  GNMA securities are considered equivalent to U.S. Treasury securities, as they are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.  Currently, there are no subprime mortgages in our investment portfolio.  Refer to Note 3. of the Notes to Unaudited Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to other than temporary impairment considerations.

Loans
A summary of loans, net of deferred fees and origination costs, by category for the periods indicated follows:

    
 
March 31, 2015
   
December 31, 2014
 
Residential real estate mortgages
 
$
1,125,600
   
$
1,115,589
 
Commercial
   
844,101
     
839,770
 
Commercial real estate mortgages
   
1,443,608
     
1,442,989
 
Real estate construction and development
   
91,382
     
83,750
 
Agricultural and agricultural real estate mortgages
   
105,211
     
107,195
 
Consumer
   
1,458,108
     
1,436,382
 
Home equity
   
555,013
     
569,596
 
  Total loans
 
$
5,623,023
   
$
5,595,271
 

Total loans increased by $27.8 million, or 0.5%, at March 31, 2015 from December 31, 2014, or 2.0% annualized during the three months ended March 31, 2015.  Loans represent approximately 71.5% of assets as of March 31, 2015, as compared to 71.8% as of December 31, 2014.  Growth in consumer loans totaled $21.7 million for the first three months of 2015 and is attributed primarily to growth in the indirect consumer loan portfolio.
 
Allowance for Loan Losses, Provision for Loan Losses, and Nonperforming Assets

The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level estimated by management to provide adequately for risk of probable losses inherent in the current loan portfolio.  The adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is continuously monitored using a methodology designed to ensure that the level of the allowance reasonably reflects the loan portfolio's risk profile. It is evaluated to ensure that it is sufficient to absorb all reasonably estimable incurred credit losses inherent in the current loan portfolio.

Management considers the accounting policy relating to the allowance for loan losses to be a critical accounting policy given the degree of judgment exercised in evaluating the level of the allowance required to cover credit losses in the portfolio and the material effect that such judgments can have on the consolidated results of operations.

For purposes of evaluating the adequacy of the allowance, the Company considers a number of significant factors that affect the collectability of the portfolio.  For individually analyzed loans, these factors include estimates of loss exposure, which reflect the facts and circumstances that affect the likelihood of repayment of such loans as of the evaluation date.  For homogeneous pools of loans, estimates of the Company's exposure to credit loss reflect a thorough current assessment of a number of factors, which affect collectability. These factors include: past loss experience; the size, trend, composition, and nature of the loans; changes in lending policies and procedures, including underwriting  standards and collection, charge-off and recovery practices;  trends experienced in nonperforming and delinquent loans; current economic conditions in the Company's market; portfolio concentrations that may affect loss experienced across one or more components of the portfolio; the effect of external factors such as competition, legal and regulatory requirements; and the experience, ability, and depth of lending management and staff.  In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral component of their examination process, periodically review the Company's allowance for loan losses.  Such agencies may require the Company to recognize additions to the allowance based on their judgment about information available to them at the time of their examination, which may not be currently available to management.

After a thorough consideration and validation of the factors discussed above, required additions or reductions to the allowance for loan losses are made periodically by charges or credits to the provision for loan losses.  These charges are necessary to maintain the allowance at a level which management believes is reasonably reflective of the overall inherent risk of probable loss in the portfolio.  While management uses available information to recognize losses on loans, additions or reductions to the allowance may fluctuate from one reporting period to another.  These fluctuations are reflective of changes in risk associated with portfolio content and/or changes in management's assessment of any or all of the determining factors discussed above.  Management considers the allowance for loan losses to be adequate based on evaluation and analysis of the loan portfolio.
 
The following table reflects changes to the allowance for loan losses for the periods presented. The allowance is increased by provisions for losses charged to operations and is reduced by net charge-offs. Charge-offs are made when the ability to collect loan principal within a reasonable time becomes unlikely. Any recoveries of previously charged-off loans are credited directly to the allowance for loan losses.
 
Allowance For Loan Losses
 
   
Three months ended
 
  
 
March 31, 2015
   
   
March 31, 2014
   
   
 
Balance, beginning of period
  $
66,359
        $
69,434
     
Recoveries
   
1,038
         
1,234
     
Chargeoffs
   
(5,680
)
 
     
(4,830
)
 
 
Net chargeoffs
   
(4,642
)
       
(3,596
)
   
Provision for loan losses
   
3,642
   
     
3,596
   
 
Balance, end of period
  $
65,359
   
    $
69,434
   
 
Composition of Net Chargeoffs
         
             
 
Commercial and agricultural
  $
(564
)
   
12
%
  $
(81
)
   
2
%
Real estate mortgage
   
(448
)
   
10
%
   
(225
)
   
6
%
Consumer
   
(3,630
)
   
78
%
   
(3,290
)
   
92
%
Net chargeoffs
  $
(4,642
)
   
100
%
  $
(3,596
)
   
100
%
Annualized net chargeoffs to average loans
   
0.34
%
           
0.27
%
       

Net charge-offs were $4.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, down from $9.9 million for the prior quarter, and up from $3.6 million from the three months ended March 31, 2014.  The decrease from the prior quarter was due primarily to a $3.0 million partial charge-off of an acquired commercial credit during the fourth quarter of 2014.  NBT recorded a provision for loan losses of $3.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, down from $6.9 million for the prior quarter, and equal to the provision for the first quarter of 2014.  Provision expense for the first quarter of 2015 was less than net charge-offs due to reserves recorded in previous quarters for the current quarter charge-offs and the improvement in asset quality metrics.  Net charge-offs to average loans for the first quarter of 2015 was 0.34%, compared to 0.70% for the fourth quarter of 2014 and 0.27% for the same period in 2014.

Nonperforming loans to total loans was 0.85% at March 31, 2015, up 3 bps from the prior quarter, and down 14 bps from March 31, 2014.  Past due loans as a percentage of total loans were 0.54% at March 31, 2015 as compared to 0.69% at December 31, 2014, and 0.57% at March 31, 2014.

The allowance for loan losses totaled $65.4 million at March 31, 2015, compared to $66.4 million at December 31, 2014 and $69.4 million at March 31, 2014.  The allowance for loan losses as a percentage of loans was 1.16% (1.29% excluding acquired loans with no related allowance recorded) at March 31, 2015, compared to 1.19% (1.36% excluding acquired loans with no related allowance recorded) at December 31, 2014 and 1.27% (1.51% excluding acquired loans with no related allowance recorded) at March 31, 2014.  The decrease in the allowance for loan losses as a percentage of loans from the prior year was due primarily to continued improving asset quality metrics of the originated loan portfolio.
 
Nonperforming assets consist of nonaccrual loans, loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing, restructured loans, OREO, and nonperforming securities. Loans are generally placed on nonaccrual when principal or interest payments become ninety days past due, unless the loan is well secured and in the process of collection. Loans may also be placed on nonaccrual when circumstances indicate that the borrower may be unable to meet the contractual principal or interest payments. OREO represents property acquired through foreclosure and is valued at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value, less any estimated disposal costs.  Nonperforming securities, which include securities which management believes are other-than-temporarily impaired, are carried at their estimated fair value and are not accruing interest.

Nonperforming Assets 
               
                 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
March 31, 2015
   
   
December 31, 2014
   
 
Nonaccrual loans
 
Amount
   
%
   
Amount
   
%
 
Commercial and agricultural loans and real estate
   
23,951
     
54
%
   
18,226
     
45
%
Real estate mortgages
   
8,973
     
20
%
   
10,867
     
26
%
Consumer
   
7,425
     
16
%
   
8,086
     
20
%
Troubled debt restructured loans
   
4,704
     
10
%
   
3,895
     
9
%
Total nonaccrual loans
   
45,053
     
100
%
   
41,074
     
100
%
Loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing
                               
Commercial and agricultural loans and  real estate
   
77
     
3
%
   
84
     
2
%
Real estate mortgages
   
255
     
10
%
   
1,927
     
39
%
Consumer
   
2,269
     
87
%
   
2,930
     
59
%
Total loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing
   
2,601
     
100
%
   
4,941
     
100
%
                                 
Total nonperforming loans
   
47,654
             
46,015
         
Other real estate owned (OREO)
   
4,387
             
3,964
         
Total nonperforming assets
   
52,041
             
49,979
         
Total nonperforming loans to total loans and leases
   
0.85
%
           
0.82
%
       
Total nonperforming assets to total assets
   
0.66
%
           
0.64
%
       
Allowance for loan losses to total nonperforming loans
   
137.15
%
           
144.21
%
       


Past due loans as a percentage of total loans was 0.54% at March 31, 2015, down from 0.69% at December 31, 2014.  For acquired loans that are not deemed to be impaired at acquisition, credit discounts representing the principal losses expected over the life of the loan are a component of the initial fair value and amortized over the life of the asset.

As a result of the application of this accounting methodology, certain credit-related ratios  may not necessarily be directly comparable with periods prior to the acquisition, or comparable with other institutions. The credit metrics most impacted by our acquisition of loans related to the Alliance merger were the allowance for loans losses to total loans,  and total allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans.  As of March 31, 2015, the allowance for loan losses to total originated loans and the total allowance for loan losses to originated nonperforming loans were 1.29% and 188.68%, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, the allowance for loan losses to total originated loans and the total allowance for loan losses to originated nonperforming loans were 1.36% and 187.88%, respectively.

Loans acquired from Alliance that were not deemed to be impaired at acquisition and were classified as non-accrual and greater than 90 days past due and still accruing prior to acquisition, continued to be classified as non-accrual and 90 days past due and still accruing immediately after the acquisition.  Loans acquired from Alliance that were classified as troubled debt restructurings prior to acquisition are no longer classified as such immediately following the acquisition. Acquired credit impaired loans from the Alliance acquisition were not classified non-accrual, even though they may be contractually past due, because we expect to fully collect the recorded investment of such loans.

In addition to nonperforming loans, the Company has also identified approximately $67.9 million in potential problem loans at March 31, 2015 as compared to $93.6 million at December 31, 2014.  The decease in the first quarter of 2015 was due primarily to the upgrade of one large commercial relationship during the period.  At March 31, 2015, potential problem loans primarily consisted of commercial real estate and commercial and agricultural loans.  Potential problem loans are loans that are currently performing, but known information about possible credit problems of the borrowers causes management to have doubts as to the ability of such borrowers to comply with the present loan repayment terms and which may result in classification of such loans as nonperforming at some time in the future.  Potential problem loans are typically defined as loans that are performing but are classified by the Company's loan rating system as "substandard."  Management cannot predict the extent to which economic conditions may worsen or other factors which may impact borrowers and the potential problem loans.  Accordingly, there can be no assurance that other loans will not become 90 days or more past due, be placed on nonaccrual, become restructured, or require increased allowance coverage and provision for loan losses.
 
Deposits

Total deposits were $6.5 billion at March 31, 2015, up $179.8 million, or 2.9%, from December 31, 2014, due primarily to seasonal growth in municipal deposits in the first quarter of 2015.  Total average deposits for the three months ended March 31, 2015 increased $408.9 million, or 6.9%, from the same period in 2014, due primarily to organic deposit growth in 2014 as well as the 2014 debt restructuring, as $165 million of borrowings were paid down and replaced with brokered deposits.

Borrowed Funds

The Company's borrowed funds consist of short-term borrowings and long-term debt. Short-term borrowings totaled $193.2 million at March 31, 2015 compared to $316.8 million at December 31, 2014.  Long-term debt was $130.8 million at March 31, 2015, as compared to $130.9 million at December 31, 2014. 

For more information about the Company's borrowing capacity and liquidity position, see "Liquidity Risk" below.

Capital Resources

Stockholders' equity of $877.5 million represented 11.16% of total assets at March 31, 2015, compared with $864.2 million, or 11.08% as of December 31, 2014.  The increase in stockholders' equity resulted primarily from net income of $18.2 million for the first quarter of 2015, partially offset by dividends paid of $9.3 million.

The Company did not purchase any of its common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2015.  As of March 31, 2015, there were 1,000,000 shares available for repurchase under a plan authorized on October 27, 2014, which expires on December 31, 2016.

The Board of Directors considers the Company's earnings position and earnings potential when making dividend decisions.  The NBT Board of Directors approved a 2015 second-quarter cash dividend of $0.22 per share at a meeting held on March 23, 2015.  The dividend, which represents a 5% increase, will be paid on June 15, 2015 to shareholders of record as of May 29, 2015.  The Company does not have a target dividend pay-out ratio.

As the capital ratios in the following table indicate, the Company remained "well capitalized" at March 31, 2015 under applicable bank regulatory requirements.  Capital measurements are well in excess of regulatory minimum guidelines and meet the requirements to be considered well capitalized for all periods presented. To be considered well capitalized, Tier 1 leverage, Common equity tier 1 capital, Tier 1 capital and Total risk-based capital ratios must be 5%, 6.5%, 8% and 10%, respectively.

Capital Measurements
 
March 31, 2015
   
December 31, 2014
 
Tier 1 leverage ratio
   
9.72
%
   
9.39
%
Common equity tier 1 capital ratio
   
10.46
%
 
NA
 
Tier 1 capital ratio
   
12.05
%
   
12.32
%
Total risk-based capital ratio
   
13.15
%
   
13.50
%
Cash dividends as a percentage of net income
   
51.10
%
   
49.16
%
Per common share:
               
   Book value
 
$
19.95
   
$
19.69
 
   Tangible book value (1)
 
$
13.52
   
$
13.22
 

(1)Stockholders' equity less goodwill and intangible assets divided by common shares outstanding
 
Liquidity and Interest Rate Sensitivity Management

Market Risk
Interest rate risk is the primary market risk affecting the Company.  Other types of market risk, such as foreign currency exchange rate risk and commodity price risk, do not arise in the normal course of the Company's business activities.  Interest rate risk is defined as an exposure to a movement in interest rates that could have an adverse effect on the Company's net interest income.  Net interest income is susceptible to interest rate risk to the degree that interest bearing liabilities mature or reprice on a different basis than earning assets.  When interest bearing liabilities mature or reprice more quickly than earning assets in a given period, a significant increase in market rates of interest could adversely affect net interest income.  Similarly, when earning assets mature or reprice more quickly than interest bearing liabilities, falling interest rates could result in a decrease in net interest income.

In an attempt to manage the Company's exposure to changes in interest rates, management monitors the Company's interest rate risk.  Management's Asset Liability Committee ("ALCO") meets monthly to review the Company's interest rate risk position and profitability and to recommend strategies for consideration by the Board of Directors.  Management also reviews loan and deposit pricing and the Company's securities portfolio, formulates investment and funding strategies, and oversees the timing and implementation of transactions to assure attainment of the Board's objectives in the most effective manner. Notwithstanding the Company's interest rate risk management activities, the potential effect of changing interest rates is an uncertainty that can have an adverse effect on net income.

In adjusting the Company's asset/liability position, the Board and management attempt to manage the Company's interest rate risk while minimizing net interest margin compression.  At times, depending on the level of general interest rates, the relationship between long- and short-term interest rates, market conditions and competitive factors, the Board and management may determine to increase the Company's interest rate risk position somewhat in order to increase its net interest margin.  The Company's results of operations and net portfolio values remain vulnerable to changes in interest rates and fluctuations in the difference between long- and short-term interest rates.  Assuming interest rates remain at or near current historical lows, net interest margin will continue to experience compression.  Additional rate reductions on deposits are becoming more difficult as deposit rates are at or near their floors, and with asset yields continuing to reprice at lower rates, this could result in additional margin pressure as well as a decrease in net interest income.

The primary tool utilized by ALCO to manage interest rate risk is a balance sheet/income statement simulation model (interest rate sensitivity analysis).  Information such as principal balance, interest rate, maturity date, cash flows, next repricing date (if needed), and current rates is uploaded into the model to create an ending balance sheet.  In addition, ALCO makes certain assumptions regarding prepayment speeds for loans and mortgage related investment securities along with any optionality within the deposits and borrowings.
 
The model is first run under an assumption of a flat rate scenario (i.e. no change in current interest rates) with a static balance sheet over a 12-month period.  Two additional models are run with static balance sheets: (1) a gradual increase of 200 bp, and (2) a gradual decrease of 100 bp taking place over a 12-month period. Under these scenarios, assets subject to prepayments are adjusted to account for faster or slower prepayment assumptions.  Any investment securities or borrowings that have callable options embedded into them are handled accordingly based on the interest rate scenario. The resulting changes in net interest income are then measured against the flat rate scenario.
 
In the declining rate scenario, net interest income is projected to decrease when compared to the forecasted net interest income in the flat rate scenario through the simulation period. The decrease in net interest income is a result of earning assets repricing downward at a faster rate than interest bearing liabilities. The inability to effectively lower deposit rates will likely reduce or eliminate the benefit of lower interest rates. In the rising rate scenarios, net interest income is projected to experience a decline from the flat rate scenario. Net interest income is projected to remain at lower levels than in a flat rate scenario through the simulation period primarily due to a lag in assets repricing while funding costs increase. The potential impact on earnings is dependent on the ability to lag deposit repricing. If short-term rates continue to increase, the Company expects competitive pressures will likely lead to core deposit pricing increases, which will likely continue compression of the net interest margin.

Net interest income for the next 12 months in the + 200/- 100 bp scenarios, as described above, is within the internal policy risk limits of not more than a 7.5% change in net interest income. The following table summarizes the percentage change in net interest income in the rising and declining rate scenarios over a 12-month period from the forecasted net interest income in the flat rate scenario using the March 31, 2015 balance sheet position:

Interest Rate Sensitivity Analysis
   
Change in interest rates
Percent change in
(in bp points)
net interest income
+200
(2.63%)
-100
(1.64%)

Liquidity Risk
Liquidity involves the ability to meet the cash flow requirements of customers who may be depositors wanting to withdraw funds or borrowers needing assurance that sufficient funds will be available to meet their credit needs. The ALCO is responsible for liquidity management and has developed guidelines which cover all assets and liabilities, as well as off balance sheet items that are potential sources or uses of liquidity.  Liquidity policies must also provide the flexibility to implement appropriate strategies and tactical actions. Requirements change as loans grow, deposits and securities mature, and payments on borrowings are made. Liquidity management includes a focus on interest rate sensitivity management with a goal of avoiding widely fluctuating net interest margins through periods of changing economic conditions.

The primary liquidity measurement the Company utilizes is called the Basic Surplus, which captures the adequacy of its access to reliable sources of cash relative to the stability of its funding mix of average liabilities.  Basic Surplus is calculated by subtracting short-term liabilities from liquid assets.  This approach recognizes the importance of balancing levels of cash flow liquidity from short- and long-term securities with the availability of dependable borrowing sources which can be accessed when necessary.  At March 31, 2015, the Company's Basic Surplus measurement was 16.1% of total assets or approximately $1.3 billion as compared to the December 31, 2014 Basic Surplus of 15.4% or $1.2 billion, and was above the Company's minimum of 5% or $393 million set forth in its liquidity policies.
 
This Basic Surplus approach enables the Company to adequately manage liquidity from both operational and contingency perspectives. By tempering the need for cash flow liquidity with reliable borrowing facilities, the Company is able to operate with a more fully invested and, therefore, higher interest income generating securities portfolio. The makeup and term structure of the securities portfolio is, in part, impacted by the overall interest rate sensitivity of the balance sheet. Investment decisions and deposit pricing strategies are impacted by the liquidity position.
 
The Company's primary source of funds is the Bank. Certain restrictions exist regarding the ability of the Bank to transfer funds to the Company in the form of cash dividends. The approval of the Office of Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) is required to pay dividends when a bank fails to meet certain minimum regulatory capital standards or when such dividends are in excess of a subsidiary bank's earnings retained in the current year plus retained net profits for the preceding two years (as defined in the regulations). At March 31, 2015, approximately $95.2 million of the total stockholders' equity of the Bank was available for payment of dividends to the Company without approval by the OCC.  The Bank's ability to pay dividends is also subject to the Bank being in compliance with regulatory capital requirements. The Bank is currently in compliance with these requirements. Under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, the Company may declare and pay dividends either out of its surplus or, in case there is no surplus, out of its net profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and/or the preceding fiscal year.

At March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, FHLB advances outstanding totaled approximately $272 million and $352 million, respectively.  The Bank is a member of the FHLB system and had additional borrowing capacity from the FHLB of approximately $1.1 billion at March 31, 2015 and $1.0 billion at December 31, 2014.  In addition, unpledged securities could have been used to increase borrowing capacity at the FHLB by an additional $413 million at March 31, 2015, or used to collateralize other borrowings, such as repurchase agreements.  At March 31, 2015 the Bank also had additional borrowing capacity from unused collateral at the Federal Reserve of $761 million.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2015-02 —Consolidation (Topic 810), Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis.  The Update amends existing standards regarding the evaluation of certain legal entities and their consolidation in the financial statements. The amendments modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities or voting interest entities and eliminate the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership. The amendments also affect the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with variable interest entities and provide a scope exception from consolidation guidance for reporting entities with interests in legal entities that are required to comply with or operate in accordance with requirements that are similar to those in Rule 2a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940 for registered money market funds. The guidance becomes effective for us on January 1, 2016 and we are evaluating the impact of this guidance on our financial statements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). This new guidance supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC 605, Revenue Recognition, and is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. The ASU also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. This guidance is effective prospectively for the Company for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the effect the guidance will have on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
 

 
Item 3.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
Information called for by Item 3 is contained in the Liquidity and Interest Rate Sensitivity Management section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
 
Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
The  Company's  management, with the participation of the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of  the  Company's  disclosure  controls  and  procedures  (as  defined  in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of March 31, 2015, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

There  were  no changes made in the Company's internal control over financial  reporting  that  occurred  during  the  Company's  most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
 
PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1 – LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
There are no material legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to the business, to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party or of which any of their property is subject, except as described in the Company's 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
Item 1A – RISK FACTORS
 
There are no material changes to the risk factors as previously discussed in Part I, Item 1A of our 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 
Item 2 – UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
(a)
Not applicable
 
(b)
Not applicable
 
(c)
None
 
Item 3 – DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None
 
Item 4 – MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

None
 
Item 5 – OTHER INFORMATION

None
 

Item 6 – EXHIBITS
 
 3.1   Certificate of Incorporation of NBT Bancorp Inc. as amended through May 2, 2012 (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2012, filed on November 9, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference).

3.2   Amended and Restated By-laws of NBT Bancorp Inc., effective May 7, 2013 (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K, filed on May 7, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference).

3.3   Certificate of Designation of the Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock (filed as Exhibit A to Exhibit 4.1 of the Registrant's Form 8-K, filed on November 18, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference).

4.1   Specimen common stock certificate for NBT's common stock (filed as exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant's Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed on December 27, 2005 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.1 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Martin A. Dietrich (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.2 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Michael J. Chewens (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.3 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and David E. Raven (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.4 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Jeffrey M. Levy (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.5 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Timothy L. Brenner (filed as Exhibit 10.5 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.6 Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Michael J. Chewens (filed as Exhibit 10.6 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.7 Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and David E. Raven (filed as Exhibit 10.7 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.8 Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Jeffrey M. Levy (filed as Exhibit 10.8 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1 Written Statement of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2 Written Statement of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

101.INS  XBRL Instance Document.

101.SCH  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

101.CAL  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

101.DEF  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

101.LAB  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

101.PRE  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
 

SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized, this 11th day of May 2015.
 
 
 
NBT BANCORP INC.
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Michael J. Chewens
 
 
 
Michael J. Chewens, CPA
 
 
 
Senior Executive Vice President
 
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
 

EXHIBIT INDEX
 
3.1   Certificate of Incorporation of NBT Bancorp Inc. as amended through May 2, 2012 (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2012, filed on November 9, 2012 and incorporated herein by reference).

3.2   Amended and Restated By-laws of NBT Bancorp Inc., effective May 7, 2013 (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K, filed on May 7, 2013 and incorporated herein by reference).

3.3   Certificate of Designation of the Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock (filed as Exhibit A to Exhibit 4.1 of the Registrant's Form 8-K, filed on November 18, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference).

4.1   Specimen common stock certificate for NBT's common stock (filed as exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant's Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed on December 27, 2005 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.1 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Martin A. Dietrich (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.2 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Michael J. Chewens (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.3 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and David E. Raven (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.4 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Jeffrey M. Levy (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.5 Employment Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Timothy L. Brenner (filed as Exhibit 10.5 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.6 Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Michael J. Chewens (filed as Exhibit 10.6 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.7 Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and David E. Raven (filed as Exhibit 10.7 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.8 Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement, dated March 10, 2015, by and between NBT Bancorp Inc. and Jeffrey M. Levy (filed as Exhibit 10.8 to Registrant's Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2015 and incorporated herein by reference).

31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1 Written Statement of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2 Written Statement of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

101.INS  XBRL Instance Document.

101.SCH  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

101.CAL  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

101.DEF  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

101.LAB  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

101.PRE  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
 
 
59


EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

 I, Martin A. Dietrich, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of NBT Bancorp Inc.

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date: May 11, 2015

By:
/s/ Martin A. Dietrich
 
 
Martin A. Dietrich
 
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 


EXHIBIT 31.2

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

 I, Michael J. Chewens, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of NBT Bancorp Inc.

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date: May 11, 2015

By:
/s/ Michael J. Chewens
 
 
Michael J. Chewens
 
 
Senior Executive Vice President and
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 


EXHIBIT 32.1

Written Statement of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

The undersigned, the Chief Executive Officer of NBT Bancorp Inc. (the "Company"), hereby certifies that to his knowledge on the date hereof:

(a) the Form 10-Q of the Company for the Quarterly Period Ended March 31, 2015, filed on the date hereof with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Report"), fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(b) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 
/s/ Martin A. Dietrich
 
 
Martin A. Dietrich
 
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
 
May 11, 2015
 

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906, or other document authenticating, acknowledging, or otherwise adopting the signature that appears in typed form within the electronic version of this written statement required by Section 906, has been provided to NBT Bancorp Inc. and will be retained by NBT Bancorp Inc. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.
 
 


EXHIBIT 32.2

Written Statement of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

The undersigned, the Chief Financial Officer of NBT Bancorp Inc. (the "Company"), hereby certifies that to his knowledge on the date hereof:

(a) the Form 10-Q of the Company for the Quarterly Period Ended March 31, 2015, filed on the date hereof with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Report"), fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(b) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 
/s/ Michael J. Chewens
 
 
Michael J. Chewens
 
 
Senior Executive Vice President and
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
May 11, 2015
 

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906, or other document authenticating, acknowledging, or otherwise adopting the signature that appears in typed form within the electronic version of this written statement required by Section 906, has been provided to NBT Bancorp Inc. and will be retained by NBT Bancorp Inc. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.
 
 



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