UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
ýAnnual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 20172023
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 No. 1-31566
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
Delaware42-1547151
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)
No.)
239 Washington StreetJersey CityNew Jersey07302
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)(City)(State)(Zip Code)
(732) 590-9200
(Registrant’s Telephone Number)
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading Symbol (s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
CommonPFS
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per shareNew York Stock Exchange
(Title of Class)(Name of Exchange on Which Registered)
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  YES  ý    NO  ¨Yes      No  
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Securities Act.    YES  ¨    NO  ýYes  ☐    No  ☒
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 twelve 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  ý    NO  ¨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 (§ 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  ý    NO  ¨Yes ☒    No  
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  ý
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filerAccelerated Filer
Large Accelerated FilerýAccelerated Filer
¨


Non-Accelerated Filer
¨


Smaller Reporting Company
¨


Emerging Growth Company
¨

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the Registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report   ☒ 
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements    Yes      No
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to § 240.10D-1(b).
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    YES  ¨    NO  ýYes      No  
As of February 2, 2018,1, 2024, there were 83,209,29383,209,012 issued and 66,842,53175,601,505 outstanding shares of the Registrant’s Common Stock, including 286,45365,744 shares held by the First Savings Bank Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan not otherwise considered outstanding under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The aggregate value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Registrant, based on the closing price of the Common Stock as of June 30, 2017,2023, as quoted by the NYSE, was approximately $1.55$1.12 billion.
Auditor Name: KPMG LLPAuditor Location: Short Hills, New JerseyAuditor Firm ID: 185
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
(1)Proxy Statement for the 2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Registrant (Part III).

1.Proxy Statement for the 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Registrant (Part III).





PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
INDEX TO FORM 10-K
Item Number Page Number
PART I
1.
1A.
1B.
1C.
2.
3.
4.
PART II
5.
6.
7.
7A.
8.
9.
9A.
9B.
9C.
PART III
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
PART IV
15.
16.







Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements contained herein are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods, or by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” "project," "intend," “anticipate,” “continue,” or similar terms or variations on those terms, or the negative of those terms. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those set forth in Item 1A of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, as supplemented by its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and those related to the economic environment, particularly in the market areas in which Provident Financial Services, Inc. (the "Company")the Company operates, competitive products and pricing, fiscal and monetary policies of the U.S. Government, the effects of any turmoil or negative news in the banking industry, changes in accounting policies and practices that may be adopted by the regulatory agencies and the accounting standards setters, changes in government regulations affecting financial institutions, including regulatory fees and capital requirements, changes in prevailing interest rates, potential goodwill impairment, acquisitions and the integration of acquired businesses, credit risk management, asset-liability management, the financial and securities markets, and the availability of and costs associated with sources of liquidity.liquidity, the ability to complete, or any delays in completing, the pending merger between the Company and Lakeland Bancorp, Inc. ("Lakeland"); any failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction when expected or at all; certain restrictions during the pendency of the transaction that may impact the Company’s ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; the possibility that the transaction may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of conditions imposed by regulators, unexpected factors or events, diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; potential adverse reactions or changes to business or employee relationships, including those resulting from the completion of the merger and integration of the companies; and the impact of a potential shutdown of the federal government.
The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date they are made. The Company also advises readers that the factors listed above could affect the Company’sCompany's financial performance and could cause the Company’sCompany's actual results for future periods to differ materially from any opinions or statements expressed with respect to future periods in any current statements. The Company does not haveassume any obligationduty, and does not undertake, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect any subsequent events or circumstances after the date of this statement.




PART I
 
Item 1.Business
Item 1.    Business
Provident Financial Services, Inc.
The Company is a Delaware corporation which became the holding company for Provident Bank (the “Bank”) on January 15, 2003, following the completion of the Bank's conversion of the Bank to a New Jersey-chartered capital stock savings bank. On January 15, 2003, the Company issued an aggregate of 59,618,300 shares of its common stock, par value $0.01 per share in a subscription offering, and contributed $4.8 million in cash and 1,920,000 shares of its common stock to The Provident Bank Foundation, a charitable foundation established by the Bank. As a result of the conversion and related stock offering, the Company raised $567.2 million in net proceeds, of which $293.2 million was utilized to acquire all of the outstanding common stock of the Bank. The Company owns all of the outstanding common stock of the Bank, and as such, is a bank holding company subject to regulation by the Federal Reserve Board.
At December 31, 2017,On September 26, 2022, the Company, hadNL 239 Corp., a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“Merger Sub”), and Lakeland entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (as may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time in accordance with its terms, the “merger agreement”), pursuant to which the Company and Lakeland have agreed to combine their respective businesses.
Under the merger agreement, Merger Sub will merge with and into Lakeland, with Lakeland as the surviving entity (the “merger”), and as soon as reasonably practicable following the merger, Lakeland will merge with and into the Company, with the Company as the surviving entity (the “holdco merger”). At a date and time following the holdco merger as determined by the Company, Lakeland Bank, a New Jersey state-charted commercial bank and a wholly owned subsidiary of Lakeland, will merge with and into the Bank, with the Bank as the surviving bank (the “bank merger” and, together with the merger and the holdco merger, the “mergers”). The Company as the surviving institution will have approximately $25 billion in total assets of $9.85and $20 billion total loans of $7.33 billion,in total deposits of $6.71 billion,with banking locations across northern and total stockholders’ equity of $1.30 billion. The Company’s mailing address is 239 Washington Street, Jersey City,central New Jersey 07302, and in surrounding areas of New York and Pennsylvania.
In the merger, Lakeland shareholders will receive 0.8319 of a share of the Company’s telephone number is (732) 590-9200.common stock for each share of Lakeland common stock they own. Upon completion of the transaction, which remains subject to regulatory approvals and
1


other closing conditions, Company shareholders will own approximately 58% and Lakeland shareholders will own approximately 42% of the combined company.
The Company received stockholder approval to proceed with the merger at a special meeting of stockholders held on February 1, 2023. Lakeland received shareholder approval to proceed with the merger at a special meeting of shareholders held on February 1, 2023. On December 20, 2023, the Company and Lakeland agreed to extend the merger agreement to March 31, 2024, to provide additional time to obtain the required regulatory approvals.
Capital Management. The During 2023, the Company paid cash dividends totaling $60.0$72.4 million and repurchased 45,12371,781 shares of its common stock at aan average cost of $1.2$23.28 per share, which totaled $1.7 million, all of which were made in 2017. Atconnection with withholding to cover income taxes on the vesting of stock-based compensation. As of December 31, 2017, 3.12023, 1.1 million shares wereremained eligible for repurchase under the board approvedboard-approved stock repurchase program. The Company and the Bank were “well capitalized” atas of December 31, 20172023 under current regulatory standards.
Available Information. The Company is a public company, and files interim, quarterly and annual reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). These respective reports are on file and a matter of public record with the SEC and may be read and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Room 1580, Washington, DC 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC maintains an Internet site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC, (http://www.sec.gov).including the Company. All SEC reports and amendments to these reports are available on the SEC's website and are made available as soon as practical after they have been filed or furnished to the SEC and are available on the Bank’s website, www.provident.bank, onat the “Investor Relations” page, without charge from the Company. Information on our website should not be considered a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Provident Bank
Established in 1839, the Bank is a New Jersey-chartered capital stock savings bank operating full-service branch offices in thethroughout northern and central New Jersey, counties of Hudson, Bergen, Essex, Mercer, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Union and Warren, as well as in Bucks, Lehigh and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania.Pennsylvania, as well as Queens and Nassau Counties in New York. As a community- and customer-oriented institution, the Bank emphasizes personal service and customer convenience in serving the financial needs of the


individuals, families and businesses residing in its primary market areas. The Bank attracts deposits from the general public and businesses primarily in the areas surrounding its banking offices and uses those funds, together with funds generated from operations and borrowings, to originate commercial real estate loans, commercial business loans, residential mortgage loans, and consumer loans. The Bank also invests in mortgage-backed securities and other permissible investments. The Bank also provides fiduciary and wealth management services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Beacon Trust Company and insurance brokerage services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Provident Protection Plus, Inc.
The following are highlights of Providentthe Bank’s operations:
Diversified Loan Portfolio. To improve asset yields and reducemanage its exposure to interest rate risk, the Bank continues to diversify its loan portfolio and has emphasizedemphasize the origination of commercial real estate loans, multi-family loans and commercial business loans. These loans generally have adjustable rates or shorter fixed terms and interest rates that are higher than the rates applicable to one-to four-family residential mortgage loans. However, these loans generally have a higher risk of loss than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans.
Asset Quality.As of December 31, 2017,2023, non-performing assets were $41.8$61.3 million or 0.42%0.43% of total assets, compared to $50.4$60.6 million or 0.53%0.44% of total assets atas of December 31, 2016. The Bank’s non-performing asset levels continued to decline from higher levels reported in prior years as local and national economic conditions have gradually improved.2022. The Bank continues to focus on conservative underwriting criteria and on active and timely collection efforts.
Emphasis on Relationship Banking and Core Deposits. The Bank emphasizes the acquisition and retention of core deposit accounts, consisting of savings and demand deposit accounts, and expanding customer relationships. Core deposit accounts totaled $6.08$9.20 billion atas of December 31, 2017,2023, representing 90.5%89.4% of total deposits, compared with $5.90$9.81 billion, or 90.1%92.9% of total deposits atas of December 31, 2016.2022. The Bank also focuses on increasing the number of households and businesses served and the number of banking products per customer.
Non-Interest Income. The Bank’s focus on transaction accounts and expanded products and services has enabled it to generate significant non-interest income. In addition to traditional depository and lending fees, the Bank to generategenerates non-interest income. Fees derivedincome from core deposit accounts are a primary source of non-interest income. The Bank also offers investment, insurance, wealth and asset management services through its subsidiariesit offers to generate non-interest income. Total non-interest income was $55.7$79.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, compared with $55.4$87.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016,2022, of which wealth management income, fee income was $27.2and insurance agency income were $27.7 million, $24.4 million and $13.9 million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, compared with $26.0$27.9 million, $28.1 million and $11.4 million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2016.2022.
2


Managing Interest Rate Risk. The Bank manages its exposure to interest rate risk through the origination and retention of adjustable rate and shorter-term loans, and its investments in securities. In addition, the Bank uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Bank making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying notional amount. AtThese interest rate swaps are used to hedge the variable cash outflows associated with Federal Home Loan Bank of New York ("FHLBNY") borrowings and brokered demand deposits. As of December 31, 2017, 64.6%2023, 54.53% of the Bank’s loan portfolio had a term to maturity of one year or less, or had adjustable interest rates. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank’s securities portfolio totaled $1.60$2.13 billion and had an expected average life of 4.34 years to manage its exposure to interest rate movements.5.48 years.
MARKET AREA
The Company and the Bank are headquartered in Jersey City, which is locatedNew Jersey, and each maintain administrative offices in Hudson County,Iselin, New Jersey. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank operated a network of 8494 full-service banking offices throughout thirteenfourteen counties in northern and central New Jersey, as well as in Bucks, Lehigh and Northamptonthree counties in Pennsylvania.Pennsylvania and two counties in New York. The Bank maintains its administrative offices in Iselin, New Jersey and satellite loan production offices in Convent Station, Flemington, Paramus and Princeton,Sea Girt, New Jersey, as well as in Bethlehem, Newtown and Wayne, Pennsylvania.Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania and Nassau and Queens County, New York. The Bank’s lending activities, though concentrated in the communities surrounding its offices, extend predominantly throughout New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania and eastern Pennsylvania.Nassau and Queens County, New York.
The Bank’s primary market area includes a mix of urban and suburban communities, and has a diversified mix of industries including pharmaceutical, manufacturing, companies, network communications, insurance and financial services, healthcare, and retail. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s most recent population data, the Bank’s New Jersey market area has a population of approximately 7.07.4 million, which was 77.7%79.2% of the state’s total population. The Bank’s Pennsylvania market area has a population of approximately 1.3 million, which was 10.4% of that state’s total population. The Bank's New York market area has a population of approximately 3.6 million, which was 18.4% of the state's total population. Because of the diversity of industries within the Bank’s market area and, to a lesser extent, its proximity to the New York City financial markets, the area’s economy can be significantly affected by changes in national and international economies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in New Jersey was 5.0% at4.8% as of December 31, 2017,2023, an increase from 4.7% at3.4% as of December 31, 2016.2022. The unemployment rate in Pennsylvania was 4.7% for3.5% as of December 31, 2017,2023, a decrease from 5.6% at3.9% as of December 31, 2016.2022. The unemployment rate in New York was 4.5% as of December 31, 2023, an increase from 4.3% as of December 31, 2022.
Within its primary market areas in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania,New York, the Bank had an approximate 2.18%2.51%, 0.66% and 0.78%0.12% share of bank deposits as of June 30, 2017,2023, respectively, the latest date for which statistics are available. On a statewide basis, the Bank


had an approximate 1.90% deposit share of the New Jersey market and an approximate 0.06% deposit share of the Pennsylvania market.
COMPETITION
The Bank faces intensesignificant competition in originating and retaining loans and attracting deposits. The northern and central New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvaniadeposits as its market areas have a high concentration of financial institutions, including large money center and regional banks, community banks, credit unions, investment brokerage firms and insurance companies. The Bank faces direct competition for loans from each of these institutions as well as from mortgage companies, online lenders and other loan origination firms operating in its market area. The Bank’s most direct competition for deposits comes from several commercial banks and savings banks in its market area. Certain of these banks have substantially greater financial resources than the Bank. In addition, theThe Bank also faces significant competition for deposits from the mutual fund and investment advisory industries and from investors’ direct purchases of short-term money market securities and other corporate and government securities.
The Bank competes in this environment by maintaining a diversified product line, including mutual funds, annuities and other investment services made available through its investment subsidiaries. Relationships with customers are built and maintained through the Bank’s branch network, its deployment of branch ATMs, and its mobile, telephonedigital and web-based bankingtelephone services.
LENDING ACTIVITIES
The Bank originates commercial real estate loans, commercial business loans, fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage loans collateralized by one- to four-family residential real estate and other consumer loans, for borrowers generally located within its primary market area.
Residential mortgage loans are primarily underwritten to standards that allow the sale of the loans to the secondary markets, primarily to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“FHLMC” or “Freddie Mac”), the Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA” or “Fannie Mae”) and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York ("FHLBNY"). To manage interest rate risk, the Bank generally sells fixed-rate residential mortgages that it originates with terms greater than 15 years. The Bank commonly retains biweekly payment fixed-rate residential mortgage loans with a maturity of 30 years or less and a majority of the originated adjustable-rate mortgages for its portfolio.
The Bank originates commercial real estate loans that are secured by income-producing properties such as multi-family apartment buildings, office buildings,industrial and retail properties and industrial properties.office buildings. Generally, these loans have maturities of either 5 or 10 years. For loans greater than $5.0 million originated with maturities in excess of 7 years, the Bank generally requires loan-level interest rate swaps for qualified borrowers.

The Bank has historically provided construction loans for both single family and condominium projects intended for sale and commercial projects, including residential rental and industrial projects, that will be retained as investments by the borrower.borrowers and to a lesser extent single family and condominium projects
3


intended for sale. The Bank underwrites most construction loans for a term of three years or less. The majority of these loans are underwritten on a floating rate basis. The Bank recognizes that there is higher risk in construction lending than permanent lending. As such, the Bank takes certain precautions to mitigate this risk, including the retention of an outside engineering firm to perform plan and cost reviews, and to review all construction advances made against work in place, and a limitation on how and when loan proceeds are advanced. In most cases, for the single family and condominium projects, the Bank limits its exposure against houses or units that are not under contract. Similarly, commercial construction loans usually have commitments for significant pre-leasing, or funds are held back until the leases are finalized. Funding requirements and loan structure for residential rental projects vary depending on whether such projects are vertical or horizontal construction.
Commercial loans are made to businesses of varying size and type within the Bank’s market. The Bank lends to established businesses, and the loans are generally secured by business assets such as equipment, receivables, inventory, real estate or marketable securities. On a limited basis, the Bank makes unsecured commercial loans. Most commercial lines of credit are made on a floating interest rate basis and most term loans are made on a fixed interest rate basis, usually with terms of five years or less.
Residential mortgage loans are primarily underwritten to standards that allow the sale of the loans to the secondary markets, primarily to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“FHLMC” or “Freddie Mac”). To manage interest rate risk, the Bank has the option to sell fixed-rate residential mortgages that it originates with terms greater than 15 years. However, the Bank commonly retains biweekly payment fixed-rate residential mortgage loans with a maturity of 30 years or less and most of the originated adjustable-rate mortgages for its portfolio.
The Bank originates consumer loans that are secured, in most cases, by a borrower’s assets. Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit that are secured by a first or second mortgage lien on the borrower’s residence comprise the largest category of the Bank’s consumer loan portfolio.


Loan Portfolio Composition. Set forth below is selected information concerning the composition of the loan portfolio by type including Purchased Credit Impaired ("PCI") loans, (after deductions for deferred fees and costs, unearned discounts and premiums and allowances for credit losses) at the dates indicated. The allowance for credit losses for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020 were based upon the adoption of the current expected credit loss ("CECL") guidance, while credit losses for 2019 were based upon the incurred loss methodology:
 As of December 31,
 20232022202120202019
 AmountPercentAmountPercentAmountPercentAmountPercentAmountPercent
 (Dollars in thousands)
Commercial mortgage loans$4,512,411 41.91 %$4,316,185 42.48 %$3,827,370 40.28 %$3,458,666 35.58 %$2,578,477 35.43 %
Multi-family mortgage loans1,812,500 16.83 1,513,818 14.90 1,364,397 14.36 1,484,515 15.27 1,225,675 16.84 
Construction loans653,246 6.07 715,494 7.04 683,166 7.19 541,939 5.57 429,812 5.91 
Residential mortgage loans1,164,956 10.82 1,177,698 11.59 1,202,638 12.66 1,294,702 13.32 1,078,227 14.82 
Total mortgage loans8,143,113 75.63 7,723,195 76.01 7,077,571 74.49 6,779,822 69.74 5,312,191 73.00 
Commercial loans2,442,406 22.69 2,233,670 21.98 2,188,866 23.04 2,567,470 26.41 1,634,759 22.46 
Consumer loans299,164 2.78 304,780 3.00 327,442 3.45 492,566 5.07 391,360 5.38 
Total gross loans10,884,683 101.10 10,261,645 100.99 9,593,879 100.98 9,839,858 101.22 7,338,310 100.84 
Premiums on purchased loans1,474 0.01 1,380 0.01 1,451 0.02 1,566 0.02 2,474 0.02 
Net deferred fees(12,456)(0.12)(14,142)(0.14)(13,706)(0.15)(18,534)(0.20)(7,899)(0.10)
Total loans10,873,701 100.99 10,248,883 100.86 9,581,624 100.85 9,822,890 101.04 7,332,885 100.76 
Allowance for credit losses(107,200)(0.99)(88,023)(0.86)(80,740)(0.85)(101,466)(1.04)(55,525)(0.76)
Total loans, net$10,766,501 100.00 %$10,160,860 100.00 %$9,500,884 100.00 %$9,721,424 100.00 %$7,277,360 100.00 %
 At December 31,
 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
 Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent
 (Dollars in thousands)
Residential mortgage loans$1,142,914
 15.73 % $1,212,255
 17.46 % $1,255,159
 19.38 % $1,252,526
 20.79 % $1,174,043
 22.89 %
Commercial mortgage loans2,171,174
 29.88
 1,978,700
 28.50
 1,716,117
 26.50
 1,695,822
 28.15
 1,400,624
 27.30
Multi-family mortgage loans1,404,005
 19.32
 1,402,169
 20.20
 1,234,066
 19.06
 1,042,223
 17.30
 928,906
 18.11
Construction loans392,580
 5.40
 264,814
 3.81
 331,649
 5.12
 221,102
 3.67
 183,289
 3.57
Total mortgage loans5,110,673
 70.33
 4,857,938
 69.97
 4,536,991
 70.06
 4,211,673
 69.91
 3,686,862
 71.87
Commercial loans1,745,301
 124.93
 1,630,887
 23.49
 1,434,291
 22.15
 1,263,618
 20.98
 932,199
 18.17
Consumer loans473,958
 219.98
 516,755
 7.44
 566,175
 8.74
 611,596
 10.15
 577,602
 11.26
Total gross loans7,329,932
 420.64
 7,005,580
 100.90
 6,537,457
 100.95
 6,086,887
 101.04
 5,196,663
 101.30
Premiums on purchased loans4,029
 0.06
 4,968
 0.07
 5,740
 0.09
 5,307
 0.09
 4,202
 0.08
Unearned discounts(36) 
 (39) 
 (41) 
 (53) 
 (62) 
Net deferred fees(8,207) (0.09) (7,023) (0.08) (5,482) (0.09) (6,636) (0.11) (5,990) (0.12)
Total loans7,325,718
 420.60
 7,003,486
 100.89
 6,537,674
 100.95
 6,085,505
 101.02
 5,194,813
 101.26
Allowance for loan losses(60,195) (0.83) (61,883) (0.89) (61,424) (0.95) (61,734) (1.02) (64,664) (1.26)
Total loans, net$7,265,523
 419.77 % $6,941,603
 100.00 % $6,476,250
 100.00 % $6,023,771
 100.00 % $5,130,149
 100.00 %
Loan Maturity Schedule. The following table sets forth certain information as of December 31, 2017,2023, regarding the maturities of loans in the loan portfolio, including PCI loans.portfolio. Demand loans having no stated schedule of repayment and no stated maturity, and overdrafts are reported as due within one year.
4


Within
One Year
Within
One Year
One
Through
Five
Years
Five
Through
Fifteen Years
Greater than Fifteen YearsTotal
(In thousands)
Within
One Year
 
One
Through
Three
Years
 
Three
Through
Five Years
 
Five
Through
Ten Years
 
Ten
Through
Twenty
Years
 
Beyond
Twenty
Years
 Total
(Dollars in thousands)
Residential mortgage loans$2,836
 $5,148
 $10,679
 $89,706
 $490,887
 $543,658
 $1,142,914
Commercial mortgage loans197,530
 258,830
 439,897
 980,765
 284,062
 10,090
 2,171,174
Multi-family mortgage loans47,424
 154,387
 206,612
 885,281
 104,337
 5,964
 1,404,005
Construction loans172,611
 204,116
 11,161
 
 4,692
 
 392,580
Residential mortgage loans
Total mortgage loans420,401
 622,481
 668,349
 1,955,752
 883,978
 559,712
 5,110,673
Commercial loans344,523
 190,376
 489,064
 458,746
 210,808
 51,784
 1,745,301
Consumer loans15,192
 6,398
 17,305
 85,563
 262,431
 87,069
 473,958
Total gross loans$780,116
 $819,255
 $1,174,718
 $2,500,061
 $1,357,217
 $698,565
 $7,329,932


Fixed- and Adjustable-Rate Loan Schedule. The following table sets forth as of December 31, 20172023 the amount of all fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans due after December 31, 2018.2024.
 Due After December 31, 2024
 FixedAdjustableTotal
 (In thousands)
Commercial mortgage loans$2,239,331 $1,809,146 $4,048,477 
Multi-family mortgage loans748,804 954,629 1,703,433 
Construction loans48,734 227,569 276,303 
Residential mortgage loans952,776 210,446 1,163,222 
Total mortgage loans3,989,645 3,201,790 7,191,435 
Commercial loans843,471 1,273,167 2,116,638 
Consumer loans178,164 119,294 297,458 
Total loans$5,011,280 $4,594,251 $9,605,531 
 Due After December 31, 2018
 Fixed Adjustable Total
 (Dollars in thousands)
Residential mortgage loans$765,654
 $374,424
 $1,140,078
Commercial mortgage loans702,412
 1,271,232
 1,973,644
Multi-family mortgage loans449,532
 907,049
 1,356,581
Construction loans1,355
 218,614
 219,969
Total mortgage loans1,918,953
 2,771,319
 4,690,272
Commercial loans436,931
 963,847
 1,400,778
Consumer loans280,855
 177,911
 458,766
Total loans$2,636,739
 $3,913,077
 $6,549,816

Residential Mortgage Loans. The Bank originates residential mortgage loans secured by first mortgages on one- to four-family residences, generally located in the State of New Jersey and the eastern part of Pennsylvania. The Bank originates residential mortgages primarily through commissioned mortgage representatives and via the Internet. The Bank originates both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages. As of December 31, 2017, $1.14 billion or 15.7% of the total portfolio consisted of residential real estate loans. Of the one- to four-family loans at that date, 67.2% were fixed-rate and 32.8% were adjustable-rate loans.
The Bank originates fixed-rate fully amortizing residential mortgage loans with the principal and interest payments due each month, that typically have maturities ranging from 10 to 30 years. The Bank also originates fixed-rate residential mortgage loans with maturities of 10, 15, 20 and 30 years that require the payment of principal and interest on a biweekly basis. Fixed-rate jumbo residential mortgage loans (loans over the maximum that one of the government-sponsored agencies will purchase) are originated with maturities of up to 30 years. The Bank currently offers adjustable-rate mortgage loans with a fixed-rate period of 5, 7 or 10 years prior to the first annual interest rate adjustment. The standard adjustment formula is the one-year constant maturity Treasury rate plus 2.75%, adjusting annually after its first re-set period, with a 2% maximum annual adjustment and a 6% maximum adjustment over the life of the loan.
Residential mortgage loans are primarily underwritten to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae standards. The Bank’s standard maximum loan to value ratio is 80%. However, working through mortgage insurance companies, the Bank underwrites loans for sale to Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae programs that will finance up to 95% of the value of the residence. Generally all fixed-rate loans with terms of 20 years or more are sold into the secondary market with servicing rights retained. Fixed-rate residential mortgage loans retained in the Bank’s portfolio generally include loans with a term of 15 years or less and biweekly payment residential mortgage loans with a term of 30 years or less. The Bank retains the majority of the originated adjustable-rate mortgages for its portfolio.
Loans are sold without recourse, generally with servicing rights retained by the Bank. The percentage of loans sold into the secondary market will vary depending upon interest rates and the Bank’s strategies for reducing exposure to interest rate risk. In 2017, $2.3 million or 1.9% of residential real estate loans originated were sold into the secondary market. All of the loans sold in 2017 were long-term, fixed-rate mortgages.
The retention of adjustable-rate mortgages, as opposed to longer-term, fixed-rate residential mortgage loans, helps reduce the Bank’s exposure to interest rate risk. However, adjustable-rate mortgages generally pose credit risks different from the credit risks inherent in fixed-rate loans primarily because as interest rates rise, the underlying debt service payments of the borrowers rise, thereby increasing the potential for default. The Bank believes that these credit risks, which have not had a material adverse effect on the Bank to date, generally are less onerous than the interest rate risk associated with holding 20- and 30-year fixed-rate loans in its loan portfolio.
For many years, the Bank has offered discounted rates on residential mortgage loans to low- to moderate-income individuals. Loans originated in this category over the last five years have totaled $21.8 million. The Bank also offers a special rate program for first-time homebuyers under which originations have totaled over $9.2 million for the past five years. The Bank does not originate or purchase sub-prime or option ARM loans.
Commercial Real Estate Loans. The Bank originates loans secured by mortgages on various commercial income producing properties, including multi-family apartment buildings, office buildingsindustrial and retail properties and industrial properties.office buildings. Commercial real estate


loans were 29.9%41.9% of the total loan portfolio atas of December 31, 2017.2023. A substantial majority of the Bank’s commercial real estate loans are secured by properties located in the State of New Jersey.Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.
The Bank originates commercial real estate loans with adjustable rates and with fixed interest rates for a period that is generally five to ten years or less, which may adjust after the initial period. Typically these loans are written for maturities of ten years or less and generally have an amortization schedule of 2025 or 2530 years. As a result, the typical amortization schedule will result in a substantial principal payment upon maturity. The Bank generally underwrites commercial real estate loans to a maximum 75% advance against either the appraised value of the property, or its purchase price (for loans to fund the acquisition of real estate), whichever is less. The Bank generally requires minimum debt service coverage of 1.20 times. There is a potential risk that the borrower may be unable to pay off or refinance the outstanding balance at the loan maturity date. The Bank typically lends to experienced owners or developers who have knowledge and expertise in the commercial real estate market.
Among the reasons for the Bank’s continued emphasis on commercial real estate lending is the desire to invest in assets bearing interest rates that are generally higher than interest rates on residential mortgage loans and more sensitive to changes in market interest rates. Commercial real estate loans, however, entail significant additional credit risk as compared to one- to four-family residential mortgage loans, as they typically involve larger loan balances concentrated with single borrowers or groups of related borrowers. In addition, the payment experience on commercial real estate loans secured by income-producing properties is typically dependent on the successful operation of the related real estate project, and thus may be more significantly impacted by adverse conditions in the real estate market or in the economy generally.
The Bank performs more extensive due diligence in underwriting commercial real estate loans than loans secured by owner-occupied one- to four-family residential properties due to the larger loan amounts and the riskier nature of such loans. The Bank assesses and mitigates the risk in several ways, including inspection of all such properties and the review of the overall financial condition of the borrower and guarantors, which may include, for example, the review of the rent rolls and the verification of income. If applicable, a tenant analysis and market analysis are part of the underwriting. Generally, for commercial real estate secured loans in excess of $1.0 million and for all other commercial real
5


estate loans where it is deemed appropriate, the Bank requires environmental professionals to inspect the property and ascertain any potential environmental risks.
In accordance with regulatory guidelines, the Bank requires a full independent appraisal for commercial real estate properties. The appraiser must be selected from the Bank’s approved list, or otherwise approved by the Chief Credit Officer in instances such as an out-of-state or special use property. The Bank also employs an independent review appraiser to ensure that the appraisal meets the Bank’s standards. Financial statements are also required annually for review. The Bank’s policy also requires that a property inspection of commercial mortgages over $2.5 million be completed at least every 18 months, or more frequently when warranted.
The Bank’s largest commercial mortgage loan as of December 31, 20172023 was a $39.1$37.8 million loan secured by a first leasehold mortgage lien on eight officetwo adjacent industrial warehouse buildings and five industrial/flex buildingstotaling 675 thousand square feet located throughout Middlesex and Somerset countiesin Aberdeen, Maryland. The properties are 100% leased to two large investment grade tenants. This refinance was for an existing sponsor client that is a large real estate investment group based in New Jersey. This was a refinanceYork City that specializes in the purchase of warehouse distribution facilities located in the Northeast and consolidation of several loans to an existing customer with extensive experience and a successful track record.Midwest. The loan has a risk rating of “2” (loans rated 1-4 are deemed to be“3” or of “acceptable quality”—see discussion of the Bank’s nine-point risk rating system for loans under “Allowance for Loan Losses” in the “Asset Quality” section) and was performing in accordance with its terms and conditions as of December 31, 2017.2023. (For the Bank’s largest group borrower exposure —see discussion on “Loans to One Borrower”).
Multi-family Loans. The Bank underwrites loans secured by apartment buildingsmulti-family properties that have five or more units. The Bank considers multi-family lending a component of the commercial real estate lending portfolio. Multi-family loans were 16.8% of the total loan portfolio as of December 31, 2023. The underwriting standards and procedures that are used to underwrite commercial real estate loans are used to underwrite multi-family loans, except the loan-to-value ratio shallgenerally should not exceed 80% of the appraised value of the property, the debt-service coverage should be a minimum of 1.15 times and an amortization period of up to 30 years may be used.
The Bank’s largest multi-family loan as of December 31, 20172023 was a $41.0$42.2 million loan secured by a first leasehold mortgage lienliens on a newly renovated 129-unit, sixfour, three to nine story class A luxury rental apartment building with 12,000 square feet of office/retail spacebuildings totaling 283 units, located in Morristown,Jamaica (Queens), New Jersey.York. The project sponsor is onehas over 40 years of the largest privately-heldinvestment, repositioning, and management experience in multi-family real estate owner/developers in the United States, and has extensive experience and a successful track record in the development and management of multi-family projects.Queens County, New York. The loan has a risk rating of “3” (loans rated 1-4 are deemed to be“4” or of “acceptable quality”—see discussion of the Bank’s nine-point risk rating system for loans under “Allowance for Loan Losses” in the “Asset Quality” section) and was performing in accordance with its terms and conditions as of December 31, 2017.2023. (For the Bank’s largest group borrower exposure —see discussion on “Loans to One Borrower”).
Construction Loans. The Bank originates commercial construction loans. Commercial construction lending includes both new construction of residential and commercial real estate projects and the rehabilitation of existing structures.
The Bank’s commercial construction financing includes projects constructed for investment purposes (rental property), owner-occupied business properties and to a lesser extent, projects for sale (single family/condominiums) and to a lesser extent, owner-occupied business properties.. To mitigate the speculative nature of construction loans, the Bank generally requiresmay require significant pre-leasing on rental properties; requires that a


percentage of the for-sale single-family residences or condominiums be under contract to support construction loan advances; and requires other covenants on residential for rental projects depending on whether the project is vertical or horizontal construction; and requires meaningful guarantees from financially strong sponsors. In most cases, for the single family and condominium projects, the Bank limits its exposure against houses or units that are not under contract. Similarly, commercial construction loans usually have commitments for significant pre-leasing, or funds are held back until the leases are finalized. As of December 31, 2023, the Bank's construction and land development portfolio balance to capital ratio was approximately 47%. Given the current economic environment, this ratio is being closely managed and has been reducing moderately over time. Funding requirements and loan structure for residential rental projects vary depending on whether such projects are vertical or horizontal construction.
The Bank generally underwrites construction loans for a term of three years or less. The majority of the Bank’s construction loans are floating-rate loans with a maximum 75% loan-to-value ratio for the completed project. The Bank employs professional engineering firms to assist in the review of construction cost estimates and make site inspections to determine if the work has been completed prior to the advance of funds for the project.
Construction lending generally involves a greater degree of risk than commercial real estate or multi-family lending. Repayment of a construction loan is, to a great degree, dependent upon the successful and timely completion of the construction of the subject project and the successful marketing of the sale or lease of the project. Construction delays, slower than anticipated absorption or the financial impairment of the builder may negatively affect the borrower’s ability to repay the loan.
For all construction loans, the Bank requires an independent appraisal, which includes information on market rents and/or comparable sales for competing projects. The Bank also obtains personal guarantees, where appropriate, and conducts environmental due diligence as appropriate.
6


The Bank also employs other means to mitigate the risk of the construction lending process. On commercial construction projects that the developer maintains for rental, the Bank typically holds back funds for tenant improvements until a lease is executed. For single family and condominium financing, the Bank generally requires payment for the release of a unit that exceeds the amount of the loan advance attributable to such unit.
The Bank’s largest construction loan atas of December 31, 20172023 was a $31.0$45.5 million commitment secured by a first mortgage lien on an existing 252,076 square foot industrial building under renovation with an additional 131,520 square foot industrial building underproperty and improvements related to the construction of a 165-unit, multi-family luxury apartment complex in Totowa, New Jersey.Wilmington, Delaware. The loan had an outstanding balance of $9.3$41.2 million atas of December 31, 2017, $7.0 million of which related to a refinance of an existing Provident Bank loan.2023. This loan closed in late 20172022 with renovation and construction completion and lease-up expected by the end of 2018.in 2024. The project sponsor is an experienced and long standinglong-standing real estate investment fund managerowner and developer based in Pennsylvania with a successful track record in the development and management of commercial real estate.estate and is an existing client. The loan ishas a risk rating of “4” (loans rated “4” are deemedor of “acceptable quality” - see discussion of the Bank’s nine-point risk rating system for loans under “Allowance for Loan Losses” in the “Asset Quality” section) and was performing in accordance with its terms and conditions as of December 31, 2017.2023.
Residential Mortgage Loans. The Bank originates residential mortgage loans secured by first mortgages on one- to four-family residences, generally located in the states of New Jersey, New York and the eastern part of Pennsylvania. The Bank originates residential mortgages primarily through commissioned mortgage representatives. The Bank originates both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages. As of December 31, 2023, $1.16 billion or 10.8% of the total loan portfolio consisted of residential real estate loans. Of the one- to four-family loans at that date, 81.9% were fixed-rate and 18.1% were adjustable-rate loans.
The Bank originates fixed-rate fully amortizing residential mortgage loans with principal and interest payments due each month, that typically have maturities ranging from 10 to 30 years. The Bank also originates fixed-rate residential mortgage loans with maturities of 10, 15, 20 and 30 years that require the payment of principal and interest on a biweekly basis. Fixed-rate jumbo residential mortgage loans (loans over the maximum that one of the government-sponsored agencies will purchase) are originated with maturities of up to 30 years. The Bank currently offers adjustable-rate mortgage loans with a fixed-rate period of 5, 7 or 10 years prior to the first annual interest rate adjustment. The standard adjustment formula is the one-year constant maturity Treasury rate plus 2.75%, adjusting annually after its first re-set period, with a 2% maximum annual adjustment and a 6% maximum adjustment over the life of the loan.
Residential mortgage loans are primarily underwritten to Freddie Mac standards. The Bank’s standard maximum loan to value ratio is 80%. However, working through mortgage insurance companies, the Bank underwrites loans for sale to Freddie Mac programs that will finance up to 97% of the value of the residence. Generally all fixed-rate loans with terms of 20 years or more are sold into the secondary market with servicing rights retained. Fixed-rate residential mortgage loans retained in the Bank’s portfolio generally include loans with a term of 15 years or less and biweekly payment residential mortgage loans with a term of 30 years or less. The Bank retains the majority of originated adjustable-rate mortgages for its portfolio.
Loans are sold without recourse, generally with servicing rights retained by the Bank. The percentage of loans sold into the secondary market will vary depending upon interest rates and the Bank’s strategies for managing exposure to interest rate risk. In 2023, one residential real estate loan originated totaling $208,000 was sold into the secondary market.
The retention of adjustable-rate mortgages, as opposed to longer-term, fixed-rate residential mortgage loans, helps reduce the Bank’s exposure to interest rate risk. However, adjustable-rate mortgages generally pose credit risks different from the credit risks inherent in fixed-rate loans primarily because as interest rates rise, the underlying debt service payments of the borrowers rise, thereby increasing the potential for default. The Bank believes that these credit risks, which have not had a material adverse effect on the Bank to date, generally are less onerous than the interest rate risk associated with holding 20- and 30-year fixed-rate loans in its loan portfolio.
For many years, the Bank has offered discounted rates on residential mortgage loans to low- and moderate-income individuals. Loans originated in this category over the last five years have totaled $35.7 million. The Bank also offers a special rate program for first-time homebuyers under which originations have totaled over $75.2 million for the past five years. The Bank does not originate or purchase sub-prime or option ARM loans.
Commercial Loans. The Bank underwrites commercial loans to corporations, partnerships and other businesses. Commercial loans represented 124.9%22.7% of the total loan portfolio atas of December 31, 2017. The majority of the Bank’s commercial loan customers are local businesses with revenues of less than $50.0 million.2023. The Bank primarily offers commercial loans for equipment purchases, lines of credit for working capital purposes, letters of credit, asset-based lines of credit and real estate loans where the borrower is the primary occupant of the property. Most commercial loans are originated on a floating-rate basis and the majority of fixed-rate commercial term loans are fully amortized over a five-year period. Owner-occupied commercial real estate loans are generally underwritten to terms consistent with those utilized for commercial real estate; however, the maximum loan-to-value ratio for owner-occupied commercial real estate loans is generally 80%.
7


The Bank also underwrites Small Business Administration (“SBA”) guaranteed loans and guaranteed or assisted loans through various state, county and municipal programs. These governmental guarantees are typically used in cases where the borrower requires additional credit support. The Bank has “Preferred Lender” status with the SBA, allowing a more streamlined application and approval process.
The Company participated in the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) through the United States Department of the Treasury and Small Business Administration. PPP loans were fully guaranteed by the SBA and were eligible for forgiveness by the SBA to the extent that the proceeds were used to cover eligible payroll costs, interest costs, rent, and utility costs over a period of up to 24 weeks after the loan was made as long as certain conditions were met regarding employee retention and compensation levels. PPP loans deemed eligible for forgiveness by the SBA were repaid by the SBA to the Company. Eligibility ended for this program in May of 2021. PPP loans are included in our commercial loan portfolio. As of December 31, 2023, the Company secured 2,067 PPP loans for its customers totaling $682.0 million, which includes both the initial round and the second round of PPP. As of December 31, 2023, 2,054 PPP loans totaling $679.4 million were forgiven. The balance as of December 31, 2023 for PPP loans was $2.5 million.
The underwriting of a commercial loan is based upon a review of the financial statements of the prospective borrower and guarantors. In most cases, the Bank obtains a general lien on accounts receivable and inventory, along with the specific collateral such as real estate or equipment, as appropriate.
Commercial loans generally bear higher interest rates than mortgage loans, but they also involve a higher risk of default and a higher loss given default since their repayment is generally dependent on the cash flow of the borrower’s business. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of commercial loans may be substantially dependent on the success of the business itself and the general economic environment.
The Bank’s largest commercial loan commitment as of December 31, 20172023 was a $35.0$60.0 million revolvingworking capital line of credit to a large importerNew Jersey based automobile leasing company. The loan, which was originated in late 2021, has a four-year term and is secured by lease contracts and the underlying vehicles. Funding is limited to the aggregate net book value of aluminum witheligible leases pledged at any time. The loan has a risk rating of “4” (loans rated “4” are deemedor of “acceptable quality” - see discussion of the Bank’s nine-point risk rating system for loans under “Allowance for Loan Losses” in the “Asset Quality” section). The line is used primarily for working capital purposes and is well secured with advances governed by a formula against eligible accounts receivable. As of December 31, 2017,2023, there was a $33.5 millionno outstanding balance under the line. (For the Bank’s largest group borrower exposure —see discussion on “Loans to One Borrower”).


Consumer Loans. The Bank offers a variety of consumer loans on a direct basis to individuals. Consumer loans represented 220.0%2.8% of the total loan portfolio atas of December 31, 2017.2023. Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit constituted 95.0%94.65% of the consumer loan portfolio and indirect marine loans constituted 2.1%secured personal lines of credit originated through Beacon Trust constitute 4.71% of the consumer loan portfolio as of December 31, 2017.2023. The remaining 2.9%0.64% of the consumer loan portfolio includes personal loans and unsecured lines of credit, direct auto loans and recreational and marine vehicle loans. The Bank no longer purchases indirect auto, marine or recreational vehicle loans.
Interest rates on home equity loans are fixed for a term not to exceed 20 years, andwith the maximum loan amount being $1.0 million, which is $650,000.dependent on lien position and credit score. A portion of the home equity loan portfolio includes “first lien“first-lien product loans,” under which the Bank has offered special rates to borrowers who refinance first mortgage loans on thea home equity (first lien)(first-lien) basis. As of December 31, 2017, there was $245.2 million of2023, first-lien home equity loans outstanding.outstanding totaled $141.5 million. The Bank’s home equity lines of credit are made at floating interest rates and the Bank provides lines of credit of up to $500,000.$1.0 million, dependent on lien position and credit score. The approved home equity lines and utilization amounts as of December 31, 20172023 were $459.9$350.3 million and $178.7$94.8 million, respectively, representing a utilization rate of 38.9%27.1%.
Consumer loans generally entail greater credit risk than residential mortgage loans, particularly in the case of home equity loans and lines of credit secured by second lien positions, consumer loans that are unsecured or that are secured by assets that tend to depreciate, such as automobiles, boats and recreational vehicles. Collateral repossessed by the Bank from a defaulted consumer loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance, and the remaining deficiency may warrant further substantial collection efforts against the borrower. In addition, consumer loan collections are dependent upon the borrower’s continued financial stability, and which is more likely to be adversely affected by job loss, divorce, illness or personal bankruptcy. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the amount the Bank can recover on such loans.
Loan Originations, Purchases, and Repayments. The following table sets forth the Bank’s loan origination, purchase and repayment activities for the periods indicated.
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Year Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31,
2017 2016 2015 202320222021
(In thousands) (In thousands)
Originations:
     
Residential mortgage$121,901
 $145,684
 $117,397
Commercial mortgage
Commercial mortgage
Commercial mortgage525,900
 427,442
 332,940
Multi-family mortgage51,371
 238,386
 308,298
Construction354,594
 265,623
 304,733
Residential mortgage
Commercial2,525,921
 1,891,067
 1,437,749
Consumer121,790
 125,515
 154,781
Subtotal of loans originated3,701,477
 3,093,717
 2,655,898
Loans purchased
 28,590
 95,283
Total loans originated and purchased3,701,477
 3,122,307
 2,751,181
     
Loans acquired at fair value in acquisition
Loans acquired at fair value in acquisition
Loans acquired at fair value in acquisition
Loans sold
Loans sold
Loans sold24,938
 34,976
 11,918
     
Repayments:
     
Residential mortgage188,103
 197,701
 204,863
Repayments:
Repayments:
Commercial mortgage
Commercial mortgage
Commercial mortgage188,352
 273,469
 303,165
Multi-family mortgage150,205
 102,939
 176,312
Construction249,872
 129,918
 119,784
Residential mortgage
Commercial2,403,945
 1,735,420
 1,279,978
Consumer163,041
 175,658
 196,819
Total repayments3,343,518
 2,615,105
 2,280,921
Total reductions3,368,456
 2,650,081
 2,292,839
Other items, net(1)
(10,789) (6,414) (6,173)
Net increase$322,232
 $465,812
 $452,169
Net increase (decrease)

(1)Other items, net include charge-offs, deferred fees and expenses, discounts and premiums.



(1)    Other items, net include charge-offs, deferred fees and expenses, discounts and premiums.
Loan Approval Procedures and Authority.The Bank’s Boardboard of Directorsdirectors approves the Lending Policy on at least an annual basis as well asand on an interim basis as modifications are warranted. The Lending Policy sets the Bank’s lending authority for each type of loan. The Bank’s lending officers are assigned dollar authority limits based upon their experience and expertise. All commercial loan approvals require dual signature authority.
The largest individual lending authority is $10.0$15.0 million for unsecured loans and $20.0 million for secured loans, which is only available to the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Lending Officer and the Chief Credit Officer. The authority of the Chief Lending Officer and Chief Credit Officer may be increased to $15.0 million for permanent commercial real estate loans on a joint basis. Loans in excess of these limits, or which when combined with existing credits of the borrower or related borrowers exceed these limits, are presented to the management Credit Committee for approval. The Credit Committee currently consists of teneight senior officers including the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Lending Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Chief Credit Officer, the Chief Administrative Officer, the Director of Credit Risk and the Credit Risk Manager, and requires a majority vote for credit approval.Lending Chief of Staff.
While the Bank discourages loan policy exceptions, based upon reasonable business considerations exceptions to the policy may be warranted. The business reason and mitigants for the exception must be noted on the loan approval document. The policy exception requires the approval of the Chief Lending Officer, Lending Chief of Staff or the Department Manager of the lending department responsible for the underlying loan, if it is within his or hertheir approval authority limit. All other policy exceptions must be approved by the Credit Committee. The Credit Administration Department reports the type and frequency of loan policy exceptions to the Credit Committee and the Risk Committee of the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors on a quarterly basis, or more frequently if necessary.
The Bank has adopted a risk rating system as part of the credit risk assessment of its loan portfolio. The Bank’s commercial real estate and commercial lending officers are required to maintain an appropriate risk rating tofor each loan in their portfolio. When the lender learns of important financial developments, the risk rating is reviewed accordingly. Risk ratings are subject to review by the Credit Department during the underwriting, lending review and loan review processes. Loan review examinations are performed by an independent third party which validates the risk ratings on a sample basis. In addition, a risk
9


rating can be adjusted at the weekly Credit Committee meeting and quarterly at management’s Credit Risk Management Committee, where they meetwhich meets to review all loans rated a “watch”“Pass/Watch” ("5") or worse. The Bank requires an annual review be performed for commercial and commercial real estate loans above certain dollar thresholds, depending on loan type, to help determine the appropriate risk ratings. The risk ratings play an important role in the establishment of the loan loss provision and to confirm the adequacy of the allowance for loancredit losses.
Loans to One Borrower. The regulatory limit on total loans to any borrower or attributed to any one borrower is 15% of the Bank’s unimpaired capital and surplus. As of December 31, 2017,2023, the regulatory lending limit was $132.8$217.9 million. The Bank’s current internal policy limit on total loans to a borrower or related borrowers that constitute a group exposure is up to $80.0 million80% of regulatory lending limit for commercial real estate loans with a risk ratingand 50% of "2" or better, up to $70.0 millionregulatory lending limit for loans with a risk rating of "3",commercial and up to $50.0 million for loans with a risk rating of "4". Maximum group exposure limits may be lower depending on the type of loans involved.industrial loans. The Bank reviews these group exposures on a quarterly basis. The Bank also sets additional limits on size of loans by loan type.
AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank’s largest group exposure with an individual borrower and its related entities was $107.0 million, consisting$134.5 million. This group exposure consisted of eightthree multi-family commercial real estate loans totaling $98.2$45.3 million, secured by seven retailthree properties in Delaware, two construction loans totaling $87.5 million, secured by two multi-family properties in Delaware and office buildings locatedPennsylvania, and $1.7 million in New Jersey, a $6.0 million unsecured line of credit, a $2.7 million letter of credit and two ACH lines of credit totaling $125,000.interest rate swap exposure. The loans have an average risk rating of “3”“4”. The borrower, headquartered in New Jersey,Pennsylvania, is an experienced real estate owner and developer in the statestates of New Jersey. Management has determined that this exception to the internal group exposure policy limit is manageableDelaware and is mitigated by the borrower’s diverse revenue mix, as well as its reputation and proven successful track record. This lending relationship was approved as an exception to the internal policy limits by the management Credit Committee and reported to the Risk Committee of the Board of Directors, and conformed to the regulatory limit applicable to the Bank at the time the loan was originated.Pennsylvania. As of December 31, 2017,2023, all of the loans in this lending relationship were performing in accordance with their respective terms and conditions.
As of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank had $2.1$1.91 billion in loans outstanding to its 50 largest borrowers and their related entities.
ASSET QUALITY
General.One of the Bank’s key objectives has been and continues to be to maintainmaintaining a high level of asset quality. In addition to maintaining sound credit standards for new loan originations, the Bank employs proactive collection and workout processes in dealing with delinquent or problem loans. The Bank actively markets properties that it acquires through foreclosure or otherwise in the loan collection process.
Collection Procedures. In the case of residential mortgage and consumer loans, the collections personnel in the Bank’s Asset Recovery Department are responsible for collection activities from the sixteenth day of delinquency. Collection efforts include automated notices of delinquency, telephone calls, letters and other notices to delinquent borrowers. Foreclosure proceedings and other appropriate collection activities such as repossession of collateral are commenced within at least 90 to 120 days after a loan


is delinquent provided a plan of repayment to cure the delinquency or other loss mitigation arrangement cannot be reached with the borrower. Periodic inspections of real estate and other collateral are conducted throughout the collection process. The Bank’s collection procedures for Federal Housing Association (“FHA”) and Veteran’s Administration (“VA”) one- to four-family mortgage loans follow the collection and loss mitigation guidelines outlined by those agencies.
Real estate and other assets acquired through foreclosure or in connection with a loan workout are held as foreclosed assets. The Bank carries other real estate owned and other foreclosed assets at the lower of their cost or their fair value less estimated selling costs. The Bank attempts to sell the property at foreclosure sale or as soon as practical after the foreclosure sale through a proactive marketing effort.
The collection procedures for commercial real estate and commercial loans include sending periodic late notices and letters to a borrower once a loan is past due. The Bank attempts to make direct contact with a borrower once a loan is 16 days past due, usually by telephone. The Chief Lending Officer and Chief Credit Officer review all commercial real estate and commercial loan delinquencies on a weekly basis. Generally, delinquent commercial real estate and commercial loans are transferred to the Asset Recovery Department for further action if the delinquency is not cured within a reasonable period of time, typically 90 days. The Chief Lending Officer and Chief Credit Officer have the authority to transfer performing commercial real estate or commercial loans to the Asset Recovery Department if, in their opinion, a credit problem exists or is likely to occur.
In the case of residential mortgage and consumer loans, collection activities begin on the sixteenth day of delinquency. Collection efforts include automated notices of delinquency, telephone calls, letters and other notices to delinquent borrowers. Foreclosure proceedings and other appropriate collection activities such as repossession of collateral are commenced within at least 90 to 120 days after a loan is delinquent provided a plan of repayment to cure the delinquency or other loss mitigation arrangement cannot be reached with the borrower. Periodic inspections of real estate and other collateral are conducted throughout the collection process. The Bank’s collection procedures for Federal Housing Association and Veterans Administration one- to four-family mortgage loans follow the collection and loss mitigation guidelines outlined by those agencies.
Real estate and other assets acquired through foreclosure or in connection with a loan workout are held as foreclosed assets. The Bank carries other real estate owned and other foreclosed assets at the lower of their cost or their fair value less estimated selling costs. The Bank attempts to sell the property at foreclosure sale or as soon as practical after the foreclosure sale through a proactive marketing effort.
Loans deemed uncollectible are proposed for charge-off on a monthly basis. Any charge-off recommendation of $500,000 or greater is submitted to executive management.
Delinquent Loans and Non-performing Loans and Assets. The Bank’s policies requireBank policy requires that the Chief Credit Officer continuously monitor the status of the loan portfolios and report to the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors on at least a quarterly basis. These reports include information on impaired loans, delinquent loans, criticized and classified assets, and foreclosed assets. An impaired loan is defined as a non-homogeneous loan greater than $1.0 million for which it is probable, based on current
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information, that the Bank will not collect all amounts due under the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired loans also include all loans modified as troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”). A loan is deemed to be a TDR when a modification resulting in a concession is made by the Bank in an effort to mitigate potential loss arising from a borrower’s financial difficulty. Smaller balance homogeneous loans including residential mortgages and other consumer loans are evaluated collectively for impairment and are excluded from the definition of impaired loans, except for TDRs.loans. Impaired loans are individually identified and reviewed to determine that each loan’s carrying value is not in excess of the fair value of the related collateral or the present value of the expected future cash flows. As of December 31, 2017, there were 1492023, impaired loans totaling $52.0totaled $42.3 million with related specific reserves of $2.9 million.
Loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty may include interest rate reductions, principal or interest forgiveness, forbearance, term extensions, and other actions intended to minimize economic loss and to avoid foreclosure or repossession of collateral. In addition, management attempts to obtain additional collateral or guarantor support when modifying such loans. If the borrower has demonstrated performance under the previous terms and our underwriting process shows the borrower has the capacity to continue to perform under the restructured terms, the loan will continue to accrue interest. Non-accruing restructured loans may be returned to accrual status when there has been a sustained period of repayment performance (generally six consecutive months of payments) and both principal and interest are deemed collectible.
The following illustrates the most common loan modifications by loan classes offered by the Company that are required to be disclosed pursuant to the requirements of Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2022-02:
Loan ClassesModification types
CommercialTerm extension, interest rate reductions, payment delay, or combination thereof. These modifications extend the term of the loan, lower the payment amount, or otherwise delay payments during a defined period for the purpose of providing borrowers additional time to return to compliance with the original loan term.
Residential Mortgage/ Home EquityForbearance period greater than six months. These modifications require reduced or no payments during the forbearance period for the purpose of providing borrowers additional time to return to compliance with the original loan term, as well as term extension and rate adjustment. These modifications extend the term of the loan and provides for an adjustment to the interest rate, which reduces the monthly payment requirement.
Automobile/ Direct InstallmentTerm extension greater than three months. These modifications extend the term of the loan, which reduces the monthly payment requirement.
Effective January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU 2022-02, “Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures” (“ASU 2022-02”), which 141eliminated the accounting guidance for troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”) while enhancing disclosure requirements for certain loan refinancing and restructurings by creditors when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. This guidance was applied on a modified retrospective basis. Upon adoption of this guidance, the Company no longer establishes a specific reserve for loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. Instead, these loan modifications are included in their respective pool and a projected loss rate is applied to the current loan balance to arrive at the quantitative and qualitative baseline portion of the allowance for credit losses.
The Company implemented various consumer and commercial loan modification programs to provide its borrowers relief from the economic impacts of COVID-19. In accordance with the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”), the Company elected to not apply troubled debt restructuring classification to any COVID-19 related loan modifications that occurred after March 1, 2020 to borrowers who were current as of December 31, 2019. Accordingly, these modifications are exempt from troubled debt restructuring classification under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and were not classified as TDRs. In addition, for loans totaling $41.7 million were TDRs. Includedmodified in this total were 125 TDRsresponse to 121 borrowers totaling $31.7 millionthe COVID-19 pandemic that did not meet the above criteria (e.g., current payment status as of December 31, 2019), the Company applied the guidance included in an interagency statement issued by the bank regulatory agencies. This guidance states that loan modifications performed in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, including loan payment deferrals that are up to six months in duration, that were performing in accordancegranted to borrowers who were current as of the implementation date of a loan modification program or modifications granted under government mandated modification programs, are not TDRs. For loan modifications that include a payment deferral and are not TDRs, the borrower’s past due and non-accrual status have not been impacted during the deferral period. The majority of our deferrals initially consisted of 90-day principal and interest deferrals with their restructured terms and which continued to accrue interestadditional deferral periods granted on a case-by-case basis at the Bank’s option. As of December 31, 2017.2023, there are no remaining deferrals related to the CARES Act.
Interest income stops accruing on loans when interest or principal payments are 90 days in arrears or earlier when the timely collectability of such interest or principal is doubtful. When the accrual of interest on a loan is stopped, the loan is designated as a non-accrual loan and the outstanding unpaid interest previously credited is reversed. A non-accrual loan is
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returned to accrual status when factors indicating doubtful collection no longer exist, the loan has been brought current and the borrower demonstrates some period (generally six months) of timely contractual payments.
Federal and state regulations as well as the Bank’s policy require the Bank to utilize an internal risk rating system as a means of reporting problem and potential problem assets. Under this system, the Bank classifies problem and potential problem assets as “substandard,” “doubtful” or “loss” assets. An asset is considered “substandard” if it is inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. “Substandard” assets include those characterized by the “distinct possibility” that the Bank will sustain “some loss” if the deficiencies are not corrected. Assets classified as “doubtful” have all of the weaknesses inherent in those classified “substandard” with the added characteristic that the weaknesses present make “collection or liquidation in full,” on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, “highly questionable and improbable.” Assets classified as “loss” are those considered “uncollectible” and of such little value that their continuance as assets without the establishment of a specific loss reserve is not warranted. Assets which do not currently expose the Bank to sufficient risk to warrant classification in one of the aforementioned categories, but possess potential weaknesses, are designated “special mention.”
Management estimates the amount of loan losses for groups of loans by applying quantitative loss factors to loan segments at the risk rating level, and applying qualitative adjustments to each loan segment at the portfolio level. Quantitative loss factors give consideration to historical loss experience by loan type based upon an appropriate look back period and adjusted for a loss emergence period. Qualitative adjustments give consideration to other qualitative or environmental factors such as trends and levels of delinquencies, impaired loans, charge-offs, recoveries and loan volumes, as well as national and local economic trends and conditions. Qualitative adjustments reflect risks in the loan portfolio not captured by the quantitative loss factors and, as such, are evaluated from a risk level perspective relative to the risk levels present over the look back period. The reserves resulting from


the application of both of these sets of loss factors are combined to arrive at the allowance for loan losses. When the Bank classifies one or more assets, or portions thereof, as “loss,” the Bank is required either to establish a specific allowance for losses equal to 100% of the amount of the asset so classified or to charge-off such amount.
Management performs a quarterly evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses. The Bank’sanalysis of the allowance for credit losses has two elements: loans collectively evaluated for impairment and loans individually evaluated for impairment. As part of its evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses, each quarter management prepares an analysis that segments the entire loan portfolio by loan type into groups of loans that share common attributes and risk characteristics. The allowance for credit losses collectively evaluated for impairment consists of a quantitative loss factor and a qualitative adjustment component. Management estimates the quantitative component by segmenting the loan portfolio and employing a discounted cash flow ("DCF") model framework to estimate the allowance for credit losses on the loan portfolio. The CECL estimate incorporates life-of-loan aspects through this DCF approach. For each segment, this approach compares each loan’s amortized cost to the present value of its contractual cash flows adjusted for projected credit losses, prepayments and curtailments to determine the appropriate reserve for that loan. Quantitative loss factors are evaluated at least annually. Management completed its most recent development and evaluation of its quantitative loss factors in the fourth quarter of 2022. Qualitative adjustments give consideration to factors such as trends in industry conditions, effects of changes in credit concentrations, changes in the Company’s loan review process, changes in the Company's loan policies and procedures, economic forecast uncertainty and model imprecision. The Company considers qualitative adjustments to credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the quantitative component of the loss estimation process. Qualitative adjustments are recalibrated at least annually and evaluated quarterly. The reserves resulting from the application of both of these sets of loss factors are combined to arrive at the allowance for credit losses on loans collectively evaluated for impairment.
Management's determination as to the classification of assets and the amount of the valuation allowances is subject to review by the FDICFederal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") and the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, each of which can require the establishment of additional general or specific loss allowances. The FDIC, in conjunction with the other federal banking agencies, issued an interagency policy statement on the allowance for loan and leasecredit losses. The policy statement provides guidance for financial institutions on both the responsibilities of the board of directors and management for the maintenance of adequate allowances, and guidance for banking agency examiners to use in determining the adequacy of general valuationthe allowances. Generally, the policy statement reaffirms that institutions should have effective loan review systems and controls to identify, monitor and address asset quality problems; that loans deemed uncollectible are promptly charged off; and that the institution’s process for determining an adequate level for its valuation allowance is based on a comprehensive, adequately documented, and consistently applied analysis of the institution’s loan and lease portfolio. While management believes that on the basis of information currently available to it, the allowance for loanscredit losses is adequate as of December 31, 2017,2023, actual losses are dependent upon future events and, as such, further additions to the level of allowances for loancredit losses may become necessary.
Loans are classified in accordance with the risk rating system described previously. AtAs of December 31, 2017, $65.42023, $70.4 million of loans were classified as “substandard,” which consisted of $29.7$54.8 million in commercial loans, $25.1 million$13.7 in commercial mortgage, construction and multi-family mortgage loans, $8.1$1.3 million in residential loans and $2.5 million$634,000 in consumer loans. At that same date, thereWithin the substandard classification, $3.0 million were $428,000 loanspurchased credit deteriorated ("PCD") loans. There was one commercial loan totaling $1.7 million, classified as “doubtful”. Also, there were no loans classified"doubtful" or “loss” as “loss” atof December 31, 2017.2023. As of December 31, 2017, $44.72023, $169.3 million of loans were designated “special mention.” Within the special mention classification, $13.6 million were PCD loans.

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The following table sets forth delinquencies in the loan portfolio as of the dates indicated.
 As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022As of December 31, 2021
 60-89 Days90 Days or More60-89 Days90 Days or More60-89 Days90 Days or More
 
Number
of
Loans
Principal
Balance
of Loans
Number
of
Loans
Principal
Balance
of Loans
Number
of
Loans
Principal
Balance
of Loans
Number
of
Loans
Principal
Balance
of Loans
Number
of
Loans
Principal
Balance
of Loans
Number
of
Loans
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 (Dollars in thousands)
Commercial mortgage loans— $— $4,707 $412 $4,068 $3,960 $6,852 
Multi-family mortgage loans1,635 744 — — — — — — 439 
Construction loans— — 771 1,097 1,878 — — 2,365 
Residential mortgage loans1,208 853 1114 14 1,928 1131 28 6,072 
Total mortgage loans2,843 14 7,075 12 2,623 21 7,874 5,091 39 15,728 
Commercial loans198 12 18,698 1,014 19 7,057 1,289 21 7,614 
Consumer loans275 632 147 653 228 16 1,650 
Total loans17 $3,316 35 $26,405 21 $3,784 49 $15,584 21 $6,608 76 $24,992 
 At December 31, 2017 At December 31, 2016 At December 31, 2015
 60-89 Days 90 Days or More 60-89 Days 90 Days or More 60-89 Days 90 Days or More
 
Number
of
Loans
 
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 
Number
of
Loans
 
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 
Number
of
Loans
 
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 
Number
of
Loans
 
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 
Number
of
Loans
 
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 
Number
of
Loans
 
Principal
Balance
of Loans
 (Dollars in thousands)
Residential mortgage loans27
 $4,325
 49
 $8,105
 33
 $6,563
 67
 $12,021
 29
 $5,434
 71
 $12,031
Commercial mortgage loans
 
 8
 5,887
 1
 80
 6
 5,192
 1
 543
 8
 1,263
Multi-family mortgage loans
 
 
 
 
 
 2
 553
 1
 506
 2
 741
Construction loans
 
 
 
 
 
 1
 2,517
 
 
 1
 2,351
Total mortgage loans27
 4,325
 57
 13,992
 34
 6,643
 76
 20,283
 31
 6,483
 82
 16,386
Commercial loans2
 406
 24
 6,901
 4
 357
 29
 11,857
 4
 801
 26
 5,812
Consumer loans12
 487
 41
 2,491
 19
 1,199
 43
 2,940
 19
 1,194
 50
 4,054
Total loans41
 $5,218
 122
 $23,384
 57
 $8,199
 148
 $35,080
 54
 $8,478
 158
 $26,252


Non-Accrual Loans and Non-Performing Assets. The following table sets forth information regarding non-accrual loans and other non-performing assets. At December 31, 2017, there were 16 TDRs totaling $10.0 million that were classified as non-accrual, compared to 22 non-accrual TDRs which totaled $11.7 million at December 31, 2016. Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when they become 90 days or more past due or if they have been identified as presenting uncertainty with respect to the collectability of interest or principal.
 As of December 31,
 20232022202120202019
 (Dollars in thousands)
Non-accruing loans:
Commercial mortgage loans$5,151 $28,212 $16,887 $31,982 $5,270 
Multi-family mortgage loans744 1,565 439 — — 
Construction loans771 1,878 2365 1392 — 
Residential mortgage loans853 1,928 6,072 9,315 8,543 
Commercial loans41,487 24,188 20,582 42,118 25,160 
Consumer loans633 738 1,682 2,283 1,221 
Total non-accruing loans$49,639 58,509 48,027 87,090 40,194 
Accruing loans - 90 days or more delinquent— — — — — 
Total non-performing loans$49,639 58,509 48,027 87,090 40,194 
Foreclosed assets11,651 2,124 8,731 4,475 2,715 
Total non-performing assets$61,290 $60,633 $56,758 $91,565 $42,909 
Total non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets0.43 %0.44 %0.41 %0.71 %0.44 %
Total non-performing loans to total loans0.46 %0.57 %0.50 %0.89 %0.55 %
 At December 31,
 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
 (Dollars in thousands)
Non-accruing loans:         
Residential mortgage loans$8,105
 $12,021
 $12,031
 $17,222
 $23,011
Commercial mortgage loans7,090
 7,493
 1,263
 20,026
 18,662
Multi-family mortgage loans
 553
 742
 322
 403
Construction loans
 2,517
 2,351
 
 8,448
Commercial loans17,243
 16,787
 23,875
 12,342
 22,228
Consumer loans2,491
 3,030
 4,109
 3,944
 3,928
Total non-accruing loans34,929
 42,401
 44,371
 53,856
 76,680
Accruing loans - 90 days or more delinquent
 
 165
 
 
Total non-performing loans34,929
 42,401
 44,536
 53,856
 76,680
Foreclosed assets6,864
 7,991
 10,546
 5,098
 5,486
Total non-performing assets$41,793
 $50,392
 $55,082
 $58,954
 $82,166
Total non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets0.42% 0.53% 0.62% 0.69% 1.10%
Total non-performing loans to total loans0.48% 0.61% 0.68% 0.88% 1.48%
Non-performing (i.e., non-accruing) commercial mortgage loans decreased $23.1 million to $5.2 million as of December 31, 2023, from $28.2 million as of December 31, 2022. Non-performing commercial mortgage loans decreased $403,000 to $7.1 million atconsisted of seven loans as of December 31, 2017, from $7.5 million at December 31, 2016. At December 31, 2017, the Company held 10 non-performing commercial mortgage loans.2023. Of these seven loans, one loan totaling $95,600 was a PCD loan. The largest non-performing commercial mortgage loan was a $2.9$3.0 million loan secured by a first mortgage on a retail propertybuilding located in Washington Township,Wayne, New Jersey.  The loan is presently in default.  There is no contractual commitment to advance additional funds to this borrower.
Non-performing commercial loans increased $456,000,$17.3 million, to $17.2$41.5 million atas of December 31, 2017,2023, from $16.8$24.2 million atas of December 31, 2016.2022. Non-performing commercial loans atas of December 31, 20172023 consisted of 30 loans.26 loans, of which 14 loans were under 90 days past-due. Of these non-performing commercial loans, four were PCD loans totaling $1.2 million. The largest non-performing commercial loan relationship consisted of twothree loans to a health and fitness club with totalaggregate outstanding balances of $8.4$19.7 million atas of December 31, 2017. Both of these2023. These loans are secured by liens on a commercial property.real estate and all business assets. These loans are currently payinghave matured and the borrower is in accordance withthe process of an orderly wind-down of their restructured terms.operations.
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Non-performing construction loans decreased $1.1 million to $771,000 as of December 31, 2023, from $1.9 million as of December 31, 2022. Non-performing construction loans as of December 31, 2023 consisted of one PCD loan. There were notwo non-performing constructionsconstruction loans atin 2022.
Non-performing multi-family mortgage loans consisted of one loan totaling $744,000 as of December 31, 2017. Non-performing constructions2023, compared to two non-performing multi-family mortgage loans in the prior year amounted to $2.5 million.
Attotaling $1.6 million as of December 31, 2017,2022.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company held $6.9$11.7 million of foreclosed assets, compared with $8.0$2.1 million atas of December 31, 2016.2022. Foreclosed assets atas of December 31, 20172023 are carried at fair value based on recent appraisals and valuation estimates, less estimated selling costs. During the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, there were 16four additions to foreclosed assets with aan aggregate carrying value of $3.8$15.1 million, and 26four properties sold with aan aggregate carrying value of $4.3$3.7 million and one write-down of $2.0 million. Foreclosed assets at December 31, 2017, consisted of $3.9 million of commercial real estate and $3.0 million of residential real estate.
Non-performing assets totaled $41.8$61.3 million, or 0.42%0.43% of total assets atas of December 31, 2017,2023, compared to $50.4$60.6 million, or 0.53%0.44% of total assets atas of December 31, 2016.2022. If the non-accrual loans had performed in accordance with their original terms, interest income would have increased by $1.9$1.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2017.2023. The amount of cash basis interest income that was recognized on impaired loans during the year ended December 31, 20172023 was not material.
Allowance for LoanCredit Losses.On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13, "Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which replaces the incurred loss methodology with the CECL methodology. It also applies to off-balance sheet credit exposures, including loan commitments and lines of credit. The adoption of the new standard resulted in the Company recording a $7.9 million increase to the allowance for credit losses and a $3.2 million liability for off-balance sheet credit exposures. The adoption of the standard did not result in a change to the Company's results of operations upon adoption as it was recorded as an $8.3 million cumulative effect adjustment, net of income taxes, to retained earnings.
The allowance for loancredit losses is a valuation account that reflects anmanagement’s evaluation of the probablecurrent expected credit losses in the loan portfolio. The Company maintains the allowance for loancredit losses is maintained through provisions for loancredit losses that are charged to income. Charge-offs against the allowance for loancredit losses are taken on loans where it is determinedmanagement determines that the collection of loan principal and interest is unlikely. Recoveries made on loans that have been charged-off are credited to the allowance for loancredit losses.


Management’s evaluation of the adequacyThe calculation of the allowance for credit losses is a critical accounting policy of the Company. Management estimates the allowance balance using relevant available information, from internal and external sources, related to past events, current conditions, and a reasonable and supportable forecast. Historical credit loss experience for both the Company and peers provides the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses, where observed credit losses are converted to probability of default rate (“PDR”) curves through the use of segment-specific loss given default (“LGD”) risk factors that convert default rates to loss severity based on industry-level, observed relationships between the two variables for each segment, primarily due to the nature of the underlying collateral. These risk factors were assessed for reasonableness against the Company’s own loss experience and adjusted in certain cases when the relationship between the Company’s historical default and loss severity deviate from that of the wider industry. The historical PDR curves, together with corresponding economic conditions, establish a quantitative relationship between economic conditions and loan performance through an economic cycle.
Using the historical relationship between economic conditions and loan performance, management’s expectation of future loan performance is incorporated using an externally developed economic forecast. This forecast is applied over a period that management has determined to be reasonable and supportable. Beyond the period over which management can develop or source a reasonable and supportable forecast, the model will revert to long-term average economic conditions using a straight-line, time-based methodology. The Company's current forecast period is six quarters, with a four-quarter reversion period to historical average macroeconomic factors. The Company's economic forecast is approved by the Company's Allowance for Credit Loss ("ACL") Committee.
The allowance for credit losses is measured on a collective (pool) basis, with both a quantitative and qualitative analysis that is applied on a quarterly basis, when similar risk characteristics exist. The respective quantitative allowance for each loan segment is measured using an econometric, discounted PDR/LGD modeling methodology in which distinct, segment-specific multi-variate regression models are applied to an external economic forecast. Under the discounted cash flows methodology, expected credit losses are estimated over the effective life of the loans by measuring the difference between the net present value of modeled cash flows and amortized cost basis. Contractual cash flows over the contractual life of the loans are the basis for modeled cash flows, adjusted for modeled defaults and expected prepayments and discounted at the loan-level effective interest rate. The contractual term excludes expected extensions, renewals and modifications unless either of the following applies at the reporting date: management has a reasonable expectation that a modification will be executed with an individual borrower; or when an extension or renewal option is included in the original contract and is not unconditionally cancellable by the Company. Management will assess the likelihood of the option being exercised by the borrower and appropriately extend the maturity for modeling purposes.
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The Company considers qualitative adjustments to credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the quantitative component of the loss estimation process. Qualitative factors are based on portfolio concentration levels, model imprecision, changes in industry conditions, changes in the Company’s loan review process, changes in the Company’s loan policies and procedures, and economic forecast uncertainty.
One of the most significant judgments involved in estimating the Company’s allowance for credit losses relates to the macroeconomic forecasts used to estimate expected credit losses over the forecast period. As of December 31, 2023, the model incorporated Moody’s baseline economic forecast, as adjusted for qualitative factors, as well as an extensive review of classified loans and loans that were classified as impaired with a specific reserve assigned to those loans. For example, the commercial property price index used in the model has a higher proportion of office exposure relative to that of the Bank. This baseline outlook reflected a worsened economic forecast and related deterioration in the projected commercial property price index used in our CECL model. The Company made qualitative adjustments to the projected commercial real estate property price index, considering the differences in portfolio collateral composition versus the commercial property price index used in our CECL models. This resulted in a total provision of $27.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, and an overall coverage ratio of 99 basis points. Management believes the allowance for credit losses allocated to the commercial real estate non-owner occupied portfolio segment accurately represents the estimated inherent losses, factoring in the qualitative adjustment and other assumptions, including the selection of the baseline forecast within the model. If the Company used the unadjusted baseline outlooks for the commercial property price index over the expected lives of Commercial Real Estate Non-Owner Occupied and Owner-Occupied loan portfolios, the provision would have risen by $6.5 million, leading to an overall coverage ratio of 105 basis points.
Portfolio segment is defined as the level at which an entity develops and documents a systematic methodology to determine its allowance for credit losses. Management developed segments for estimating loss based on type of borrower and collateral which is generally based upon federal call report segmentation. The segments have been combined or sub-segmented as needed to ensure loans of similar risk profiles are appropriately pooled. As of December 31, 2023, the portfolio and class segments for the Company’s loan portfolio were:
Mortgage Loans – Residential, Commercial Real Estate, Multi-Family and Construction
Commercial Loans – Commercial Owner Occupied and Commercial Non-Owner Occupied
Consumer Loans – First Lien Home Equity and Other Consumer
The allowance for credit losses on loans individually evaluated for impairment is based upon loans that have been identified through the Company’s normal loan monitoring process. This process includes the review of delinquent and problem loans at the Company’s Delinquency, Credit, Credit Risk Management and Allowance Committees; or which may be identified through the Company’s loan review process. Generally, the Company only evaluates loans individually for impairment if the loan is non-accrual, non-homogeneous and the balance is greater than $1.0 million. In instances where the loan is under $1.0 million, but part of a relationship over $1.0 million, all loans in the relationship would be evaluated individually for impairment.
For all classes of loans deemed collateral-dependent, the Company estimates expected credit losses based on which the collectability of principal may not be reasonably assured. For residential mortgage and consumer loans, this is determined primarily by delinquency and collateral values. For commercial real estate and commercial loans, an extensive review of financial performance, payment history and collateral values is conducted on a quarterly basis.
As partfair value of the evaluation ofcollateral less any selling costs. If the adequacy ofloan is not collateral dependent, the allowance for loancredit losses each quarter management prepares an analysisrelated to individually assessed loans is based on discounted expected cash flows using the loan’s initial effective interest rate.
For loans acquired that categorizeshave experienced more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since their origination are considered PCD loans. The Company evaluates acquired loans for deterioration in credit quality based on any of, but not limited to, the entire loan portfolio by certainfollowing: (1) non-accrual status; (2) modification designation; (3) risk characteristics such as loan type (residential mortgage, commercial mortgage, construction, commercial, etc.)ratings of special mention, substandard or doubtful; (4) watchlist credits; and loan risk rating.
When assigning a risk rating to a loan, management utilizes the Bank’s internal nine-point risk rating system. Loans deemed to be “acceptable quality” are rated 1 through 4, with a rating of 1 established for(5) delinquency status, including loans with minimal risk. Loans that are deemed to becurrent on acquisition date, but had been previously delinquent. At the acquisition date, an estimate of “questionable quality” are rated 5 (watch) or 6 (special mention). Loans with adverse classifications (substandard, doubtful or loss) are rated 7, 8 or 9, respectively. Commercial mortgage, commercial, multi-family and construction loans are rated individually, and each lending officerexpected credit losses is responsible for risk rating loans in their portfolio. These risk ratings are then reviewed by the department manager and/or the Chief Lending Officer and by the Credit Department. The risk ratings for loans requiring Credit Committee approval are periodically reviewed by the Credit Committee in the credit approval or renewal process. The risk ratings are also confirmed through periodic loan review examinations, which are currently performed by an independent third party. Reports by the independent third party are presented directly to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
Each quarter, the lending groups prepare individual Credit Risk Management Reports for the Credit Administration Department. These reports review all commercial loans and commercial mortgage loans that have been determined to involve above-average risk (risk rating of 5 or worse). The Credit Risk Management Reports contain the reason for the risk rating assigned to each loan, status of the loan and any current developments. These reports are submitted to a committee chaired by the Chief Credit Officer. Each loan officer reviews the loan and the corresponding Credit Risk Management Report with the committee and the risk rating is evaluated for appropriateness.
Management estimates the amount of loan lossesmade for groups of PCD loans by applying quantitative loss factorswith similar risk characteristics and individual PCD loans without similar risk characteristics. Subsequent to loan segments at the risk rating level, and applying qualitative adjustments to each loan segment atacquisition date, the portfolio level. Quantitative loss factors give consideration to historical loss experience by loan typeinitial allowance for credit losses on PCD loans will increase or decrease based upon an appropriate look-back period and adjusted for a loss emergence period; these factors are evaluated at least annually. The most recent periodic review and recalculation of quantitative loss factors was completedon future evaluations, with changes recognized in the third quarter of 2017 using historical loss data through June 30, 2017 and was applied effective September 30, 2017. Qualitative adjustments give consideration to other qualitative or environmental factors such as:
levels of and trends in delinquencies and impaired loans;
levels of and trends in charge-offs and recoveries;
trends in volume and terms of loans;
effects of any changes in lending policies, procedures and practices;
changes in the quality or results of the Bank’s loan review system;
experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff;
national and local economic trends and conditions;
industry conditions;
effects of changes in credit concentration; and
changes in collateral values.
Qualitative adjustments reflect risks in the loan portfolio not captured by the quantitative loss factors and, as such, are evaluated from a risk level perspective relative to the risk levels present over the look-back period; qualitative adjustments are recalibrated at least annually and evaluated at least quarterly. The range of adjustments to historical loss rates applicable to qualitative factors were updated in the third quarter of 2017 in conjunction with the review and recalculation of quantitative loss factors. The reserves resulting from the application of both of these sets of loss factors are combined to arrive at the general allowance for loan losses.
The reserve factors applied to each loan risk rating are inherently subjective in nature. Reserve factors are assigned to each of the risk rating categories. This methodology permits adjustments to the allowance for loan losses in the event that, in management’s judgment, significant conditions impacting the credit quality and collectability of the loan portfolio as of the evaluation date are not otherwise adequately reflected in the analysis.


The provision for loan losses is established after considering the allowance for loan loss analysis, the amount of the allowance for loan losses in relation to the total loan balance, loan portfolio growth, loan portfolio composition, loan delinquency and non-performing loan trends and peer group analysis.credit losses.
Management believes the primary risks inherent in the portfolio are a general decline in the economy, generally, a decline in real estate market values, rising unemployment or a protracted period of unemployment at elevated levels,unemployment, increasing vacancy rates in commercial investment properties and possible increases in interest rates in the absence of economic improvement. Any one or a combination of these events may adversely affect borrowers’ ability to repay the loans, resulting in increased delinquencies, loancredit losses and futurehigher levels of provisions. Accordingly, the Company has provided for loan losses at the current level to address the current risk in its loan portfolio. Management considers it important to maintain the ratio of the allowance for loancredit losses to total loans at an acceptable level given current and forecasted economic conditions, interest rates and the composition of the portfolio. Management will continue
15


The CECL approach to reviewcalculate the entire loan portfolio to determine the extent, if any, to which further additional loan loss provisions may be deemed necessary. The allowance for credit losses on loans is significantly influenced by the composition, characteristics and quality of the Company’s loan losses is maintained at a level that represents management’s best estimate of probable losses related to specifically identified loansportfolio, as well as probable losses inherent in the remaining loan portfolio. There can be no assuranceprevailing economic conditions and forecast utilized. Although management believes that the Company has established and maintained the allowance for loancredit losses at appropriate levels, additions may be necessary if future economic and other conditions differ substantially from the current operating environment and economic forecast. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis giving consideration to forecasted economic factors, historical loss experience and other factors. The model includes both quantitative and qualitative components. Such estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be adequate to cover all losses that may in fact be realizedreflected in the financial statements in future periods, and to the extent actual losses are higher than management estimates, additional provision for credit losses on loans could be required and could adversely affect our earnings or financial position in future periods. In addition, various regulatory agencies periodically review the adequacy of the Company’s allowance for credit losses as an integral part of their examination process. Such agencies may require the Company to recognize additions to the allowance or additional write-downs based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. Although management uses the best information available, the level of the allowance for credit losses remains an estimate that additional provisionsis subject to significant judgment and short-term volatility.
Material changes to these and other relevant factors creates greater volatility to the allowance for loancredit losses, will not be required.and therefore, greater volatility to the Company’s reported earnings. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the increase in provision was primarily attributable to a worsened economic forecast and related deterioration in the projected commercial property price indices used in our CECL model. See Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on the allowance for credit losses on loans.

16


Analysis of the Allowance for Loan Losses.Credit Losses on Loans. The following table sets forth the analysis of the allowance for loancredit losses for the periods indicated.
 Years Ended December 31,
 20232022202120202019
 (Dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of period$88,023 $80,740 $101,466 $55,525 $55,562 
Adjustments as a result of adopted ASUs (1)
(594)— — 21,506 — 
Charge offs:
Commercial mortgage loans1,700 5,471 3,234 2,647 222 
Multi-family mortgage loans— 66 34 — — 
Construction loans— — — — — 
Residential mortgage loans24 21 74 69 44 
Commercial loans8,363 633 1,597 4,763 14,023 
Consumer loans334 357 517 434 743 
Total10,421 6,548 5,456 7,913 15,032 
Recoveries:
Commercial mortgage loans412 198 378 177 376 
Multi-family mortgage loans— — — — 
Construction loans— — 20 110 — 
Residential mortgage loans134 386 457 109 46 
Commercial loans1,309 4,193 7,169 1,776 665 
Consumer loans437 654 1,002 465 808 
Total2,292 5,431 9,030 2,637 1,895 
Net charge-offs (recoveries)8,129 1,117 (3,574)5,276 13,137 
Provision charge (benefit) to operations27,900 8,400 (24,300)29,711 13,100 
Balance at end of period$107,200 $88,023 $80,740 $101,466 $55,525 
Ratio of net charge-offs (recoveries) to average loans outstanding during the period0.08 %0.01 %(0.04)%0.06 %0.18 %
Allowance for credit losses to total loans0.99 %0.86 %0.84 %1.03 %0.76 %
Allowance for credit losses to non-performing loans215.96 %150.44 %168.11 %116.51 %138.14 %
(1) On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13, "Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which replaces the incurred loss methodology with the CECL methodology. The adoption of the new standard resulted in the Company recording a $7.9 million increase to the allowance for credit losses. Additionally, in 2020, for PCD loans, an allowance for credit losses was calculated using management's best estimate of projected losses over the remaining life of the loans in accordance with ASC 326-20. This represents the portion of the loan balances that has been deemed uncollectible based on the Company’s expectations of future cash flows for each respective PCD loan pool, given the outlook and forecasts inclusive of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related fiscal and regulatory interventions. A $13.6 million allowance for credit losses was recorded on PCD loans.
On January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU 2022-02, "Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures," which addresses areas identified by the FASB as part of its post-implementation review of the credit losses standard (ASU 2016-13) that introduced the CECL model. As a result, the Company recorded a $594,000 reduction to the allowance for credit losses.

17


 Years Ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
 (Dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of period$61,883
 $61,424
 $61,734
 $64,664
 $70,348
Charge offs:         
Residential mortgage loans421
 1,033
 1,296
 3,184
 3,900
Commercial mortgage loans72
 35
 1,086
 705
 2,882
Multi-family mortgage loans2
 
 105
 4
 
Construction loans6
 
 
 15
 234
Commercial loans7,187
 4,862
 2,863
 4,449
 3,686
Consumer loans1,253
 1,020
 3,478
 2,515
 3,704
Total8,941
 6,950
 8,828
 10,872
 14,406
Recoveries:         
Residential mortgage loans1
 57
 102
 73
 160
Commercial mortgage loans59
 504
 86
 131
 104
Multi-family mortgage loans
 67
 2
 1
 
Construction loans6
 
 57
 80
 869
Commercial loans800
 570
 2,413
 1,776
 1,075
Consumer loans787
 811
 1,508
 1,231
 1,014
Total1,653
 2,009
 4,168
 3,292
 3,222
Net charge-offs7,288
 4,941
 4,660
 7,580
 11,184
Provision for loan losses5,600
 5,400
 4,350
 4,650
 5,500
Balance at end of period$60,195
 $61,883
 $61,424
 $61,734
 $64,664
Ratio of net charge-offs to average loans outstanding during the period0.10% 0.07% 0.07% 0.13% 0.22%
Allowance for loan losses to total loans0.82% 0.88% 0.94% 1.01% 1.24%
Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans172.34% 145.95% 137.92% 114.63% 84.33%


Allocation of Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans by Loan Losses.Category. The following table sets forth the allocation of the allowance for loancredit losses by loan category for the periods indicated. ThisThe allowance for credit losses for 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020 reflected the adoption of the CECL methodology, while the prior year credit losses were based upon the incurred loss methodology. The following allocation of the allowance for credit losses is based on management’s assessment as of a given point in time, of the risk characteristics of each of the component parts of the total loan portfolio and is subject to changes as and when the risk factors of each such component part change. The allocationtime. This is neither indicative of the specific amounts or the loan categories in which future charge-offs may be taken, nor is it an indicator of future loss trends. The allocation of the allowance allocated to each category does not restrict the use of the allowance to absorb losses in any category.
As of December 31,
At December 31, 20232022202120202019
2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
Percent of
Loans in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
Percent of
Loans  in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
Percent of
Loans in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
Percent of
Loans in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
Percent of
Loans in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Percent of
Loans in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
 
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Percent of
Loans  in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
 
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Percent of
Loans in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
 
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Percent of
Loans in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
 
Amount of
Allowance
for Loan
Losses
 
Percent of
Loans in
Each
Category to
Total Loans
(Dollars in thousands)
(Dollars in thousands)
Residential mortgage loans$4,328
 15.59% $5,540
 17.30% $5,110
 19.20% $4,805
 20.58% $5,500
 22.60%
Commercial mortgage loans13,136
 29.62
 12,234
 28.24
 12,798
 26.25
 16,645
 27.86
 16,404
 26.96
Commercial mortgage loans$53,147 41.46 41.46 %$39,848 42.06 42.06 %$34,912 39.89 39.89 %$42,014 35.15 35.15 %$12,831 35.14 35.14 %
Multi-family mortgage loans4,919
 19.15
 7,481
 20.02
 7,841
 18.88
 6,258
 17.12
 5,933
 17.87
Construction loans5,669
 5.35
 4,371
 3.77
 6,345
 5.06
 4,269
 3.62
 6,307
 3.52
Residential mortgage loans
Commercial loans29,814
 23.81
 29,143
 23.28
 25,829
 21.94
 24,381
 20.76
 24,107
 17.93
Consumer loans2,329
 6.48
 3,114
 7.39
 3,501
 8.67
 4,881
 10.06
 4,929
 11.12
Unallocated
 
 
 
 
 
 495
 
 1,484
 
Total$60,195
 100.00% $61,883
 100.00% $61,424
 100.00% $61,734
 100.00% $64,664
 100.00%
Total
Total$107,200 100.00 %$88,023 100.00 %$80,740 100.00 %$101,466 100.00 %$55,525 100.00 %
INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES
General. The Boardboard of Directorsdirectors annually approves the Investment Policy for the Bank and the Company. The Chief Financial Officer and the Treasurer are authorized by the Board to implement the Investment Policy and establish investment strategies. Each of the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer is authorized to make investment decisions consistent with the Investment Policy. Investment transactions for the Bank are reported to the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors of the Bank on a monthly basis.
The Investment Policy is designed to generate a favorable rate of return, consistent with established guidelines for liquidity, safety, duration and diversification, and to complement the lending activities of the Bank. Investment decisions are made in accordance with the policy and are based on credit quality, interest rate risk, balance sheet composition, market expectations, liquidity, income and collateral needs.
The Investment Policy does not currently permit the purchase of any securities that are below investment grade.
The investment strategy is to maximize the return on the investment portfolio consistent with the Investment Policy. The investment strategy considers the Bank’s and the Company’s interest rate risk position as well as liquidity, loan demand and other factors. Acceptable investment securities include U.S. Treasury and Agency obligations, collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”), corporate debt obligations, municipal bonds, mortgage-backed securities, commercial paper, mutual funds, bankers’ acceptances and Federal funds. Securities purchased for the investment portfolio require a minimum credit rating of “A” by Moody’s or Standard & Poor’s at the time of purchase.
Securities in the investment portfolio are classified as held to maturity debt securities, available for sale debt securities, equity securities, or held for trading. Securities that are classified as held to maturity debt securities are securities that the Bank or the Company has the intent and ability to hold until their contractual maturity date and are reported at cost. Securities that are classified as available for sale debt securities are reported at fair value. Available for sale debt securities include U.S. Treasury and Agency obligations, U.S. Agency and privately-issued CMOs and corporate debt obligations and equities.obligations. Sales of securities may occur from time to time in response to changes in market rates and liquidity needs and to facilitate balance sheet
18


reallocation to effectively manage interest rate risk. Equity securities are traded in active markets with readily accessible quoted market prices, carried at fair value. At the present time, there are no securities that are classified as held for trading.
On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted CECL which replaces the incurred loss methodology with an expected loss methodology. Management conductsmeasures expected credit losses on held to maturity debt securities on a periodic reviewcollective basis by security type. Management classifies the held to maturity debt securities portfolio into the following security types:
Agency-sponsored obligations;
Mortgage-backed securities;
State and evaluationmunicipal obligations; and
Corporate obligations.

All of the agency obligations held by the Bank are issued by U.S. government entities and agencies. These securities portfolio to determine if any securities withare either explicitly or implicitly guaranteed by the U.S. government, are highly rated by major rating agencies and have a market value below book value were other-than-temporarily impaired. If such an impairment was deemed other-than-temporary, management would measure the total credit-related componentlong history of no credit losses. The majority of the unrealized loss,state and municipal, and corporate obligations carry no lower than "A" ratings from the rating agencies as of December 31, 2023 and the Company would recognize that portion of the loss as a charge to current period earnings. The remaining portion of the unrealized loss would be recognized as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The fair value of thehad no securities portfolio is significantly affectedrated BBB or worse by changes in interest rates. In general, as interest rates rise, the fair value of fixed-rate securities decreases and as interest rates fall, the fair value of fixed-rate securities increases.


Moody’s Investors Service.
CMOs are a type of debt security issued by a special-purpose entity that aggregates pools of mortgages and mortgage-related securities and creates different classes of CMO securities with varying maturities and amortization schedules as well as a residual interest with each class possessing different risk characteristics. In contrast to pass-through mortgage-backed securities from which cash flow is received (and prepayment risk is shared) pro rata by all securities holders, the cash flow from the mortgages or mortgage-related securities underlying CMOs is paid in accordance with predetermined priority to investors holding various tranches of such securities or obligations. A particular tranche of CMOs may therefore carry prepayment risk that differs from that of both the underlying collateral and other tranches. Accordingly, CMOs attempt to moderate risks associated with conventional mortgage-related securities resulting from unexpected prepayment activity. In declining interest rate environments, the Bank attempts to purchase CMOs with principal lock-out periods, reducing prepayment risk in the investment portfolio. During rising interest rate periods, the Bank’s strategy is to purchase CMOs that are receiving principal payments that can be reinvested at higher current yields. Investments in CMOs involve a risk that actual prepayments will differ from those estimated in pricing the security, which may result in adjustments to the net yield on such securities. Additionally, the fair value of such securities may be adversely affected by changes in the market interest rates. Management believes these securities may represent attractive alternatives relative to other investments due to the wide variety of maturity, repayment and interest rate options available.
AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank held $102,000$900,000 in privately-issuedprivately issued CMOs in the investment portfolio. The Bank and the Company do not invest in collateralized debt obligations, mortgage-related securities secured by sub-prime loans, or any preferred equity securities.

19


Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Securities. The following table sets forth certain information regarding the amortized cost and fair values of the Company’s securities as of the dates indicated.
 As of December 31,
 202320222021
 
Amortized 
Cost(2)
Fair
Value
Amortized 
Cost(2)
Fair
Value
Amortized 
Cost
Fair
Value
 (Dollars in thousands)
Held to Maturity Debt Securities:
Mortgage-backed securities$— $— $— $— $21 $21 
FHLB-sponsored obligations2,399 2,225 2,398 2,127 2,398 2,360 
FHLMC-sponsored obligations3,600 3,367 3,600 3,224 3,600 3,537 
FNMA-sponsored obligations2,060 2,003 1,000 906 1,000 984 
FFCB-sponsored obligations2,999 2,812 2,999 2,707 2,998 2,940 
State and municipal obligations339,816 330,333 366,164 353,417 415,724 429,552 
Corporate obligations7,091 6,684 11,789 11,087 10,448 10,315 
Total held-to-maturity debt securities$363,111 $352,571 $387,950 $373,468 $436,189 $449,709 
Available for Sale Debt Securities:
U.S Treasury obligations$276,618 $253,878 $275,620 $245,816 $196,898 $196,329 
Mortgage-backed securities1,462,159 1,285,609 1,636,913 1,427,138 1,711,312 1,708,831 
Agency guaranteed obligations26,310 27,498 — — — — 
Asset-backed securities31,809 32,235 37,707 37,621 45,115 46,797 
State and municipal obligations64,454 56,584 67,706 56,864 68,702 69,708 
Corporate obligations40,448 34,308 40,541 36,109 36,109 36,186 
Total available for sale debt securities$1,901,798 $1,690,112 $2,058,487 $1,803,548 $2,058,136 $2,057,851 
Equity securities$1,270 $1,270 $1,147 $1,147 $1,325 $1,325 
Average expected life of
securities(1)
5.48 years5.82 years3.93 years
(1) Average expected life is based on prepayment assumptions utilizing prevailing interest rates as of the reporting dates and excludes equity securities.
(2) As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, excludes allowance for credit losses on held to maturity debt securities of $31,000 and $27,000, respectively.
20
 At December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
 Amortized Cost Fair Value Amortized Cost Fair Value Amortized Cost Fair Value
 (Dollars in thousands)
Held to Maturity: 
Mortgage-backed securities$382
 $396
 $893
 $924
 $1,597
 $1,658
FHLB obligations410
 403
 409
 407
 500
 498
FHLMC obligations1,600
 1,564
 1,600
 1,560
 500
 500
FNMA obligations1,799
 1,763
 1,798
 1,762
 3,096
 3,099
FFCB obligations499
 491
 499
 496
 
 
State and municipal obligations462,942
 470,484
 473,653
 474,852
 458,062
 472,661
Corporate obligations10,020
 9,938
 9,331
 9,286
 9,929
 9,915
Total held-to-maturity$477,652
 $485,039
 $488,183
 $489,287
 $473,684
 $488,331
Available for Sale:           
U.S Treasury obligations
 
 7,995
 8,008
 8,006
 8,004
Mortgage-backed securities993,548
 988,367
 952,992
 951,861
 857,430
 863,861
FHLMC obligations
 
 10,009
 10,014
 20,101
 20,059
FHLB obligations19,014
 19,005
 25,136
 25,164
 30,298
 30,273
FNMA obligations
 
 21,978
 22,010
 31,997
 31,998
State and municipal obligations3,259
 3,388
 3,727
 3,743
 4,193
 4,308
Corporate obligations26,047
 26,394
 19,013
 19,037
 5,516
 5,512
Equity securities417
 658
 397
 549
 397
 519
Total available for sale$1,042,285
 $1,037,812
 $1,041,247
 $1,040,386
 $957,938
 $964,534
Average expected life of
securities(1)
4.34 years
   4.24 years
   4.40 years
  
(1)Average expected life is based on prepayment assumptions utilizing prevailing interest rates as of the reporting dates and excludes equity securities.


The aggregate carrying values and fair values of securities by issuer, where the aggregate book value of such securities exceeds ten percent of stockholders’ equity are as follows (in thousands):


 
Amortized
Cost
 
Fair
Value
At December 31, 2017:   
FNMA$476,768
 $473,608
FHLMC440,362
 437,855
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the carrying value, weighted average yields and contractual maturities of the Company’s debt securities portfolio as of December 31, 2017.2023. No tax equivalent adjustments were made to the weighted average yields. Amounts are shown at amortized cost for held to maturity debt securities and at fair value for available for sale debt securities.
As of December 31, 2023
At December 31, 2017 One Year or Less
More Than One
Year to Five Years
More Than Five
Years to Ten Years
After Ten YearsTotal
One Year or Less 
More Than One
Year to Five Years
 
More Than Five
Years to Ten Years
 After Ten Years Total
Carrying
Value
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
Carrying
Value
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
Carrying
Value
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
Carrying
Value
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
Carrying
Value
Weighted
Average
Yield(1)
Carrying
Value
 
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
 
Carrying
Value
 
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
 
Carrying
Value
 
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
 
Carrying
Value
 
Weighted
Average
Yield (1)
 
Carrying
Value
 
Weighted
Average
Yield(1)
(Dollars in thousands)
Held to Maturity Debt Securities:
(Dollars in thousands)
Held to Maturity: 
Mortgage-backed securities$110
 3.49% $272
 5.37% $
 % $
 % $382
 4.83%
Agency obligations600
 1.03
 3,708
 1.57
 
 
 
 
 4,308
 1.49
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations$1,060 5.16 %$9,998 0.68 $— — %$— — %$11,058 1.11 %
Corporate obligations1,565
 1.55
 8,455
 2.50
 
 
 
 
 10,020
 2.35
State and municipal obligations4,958
 3.47
 55,189
 3.12
 260,937
 2.61
 141,858
 2.72
 462,942
 2.71
Total held to maturity$7,233
 2.85% $67,624
 2.97% $260,937
 2.61% $141,858
 2.72% $477,652
 2.70%
Available for Sale:                   
Total held to maturity debt securities(2)
Total held to maturity debt securities(2)
$32,659 3.48 %$170,306 2.50 %$133,538 2.50 %$26,608 1.96 %$357,965 2.55 %
Available for Sale Debt Securities:
Asset-backed securities
Asset-backed securities
Asset-backed securities$— — %$253,877 1.45 %$— — %$— — %$253,877 1.45 %
State and municipal obligations$396
 3.92% $
 % $2,992
 2.78% $
 % $3,388
 2.91%
Mortgage-backed securities401
 3.68
 25,789
 1.70
 205,439
 2.50
 756,738
 2.61
 988,367
 2.56
Agency obligations19,005
 1.15
 
 
 
 
 
 
 19,005
 1.15
Agency guaranteed obligations
Corporate obligations989
 2.60
 3,048
 2.99
 22,357
 4.99
 
 
 26,394
 4.67
Total available for sale(2)
$20,791
 1.32% $28,837
 1.84% $230,788
 2.74% $756,738
 2.61% $1,037,154
 2.59%
Total available for sale debt securities(3)
Total available for sale debt securities(3)
$13,549 2.14 %$347,210 2.23 %$217,356 2.62 %$1,111,999 2.58 %$1,690,114 2.18 %
 
(1)Yields are not tax equivalent.
(2)Totals exclude $658,000 of available for sale equity securities at fair value.
(1)    Yields are not tax equivalent.
(2)     As of December 31, 2023, excludes $31,000 allowance for credit losses on held to maturity debt securities.
(3)    Totals exclude $1.3 million equity securities, at fair value.
SOURCES OF FUNDS
General.Primary sources of funds consist of principal and interest cash flows received from loans and mortgage-backed securities, contractual maturities on investments, deposits, FHLBNY advances and proceeds from sales of loans and investments. These sources of funds are used for lending, investing and general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and common stock repurchases.
Deposits.The Bank offers a variety of deposits for retail and business accounts. Deposit products include savings accounts, checking accounts, interest-bearing checking accounts, money market deposit accounts and certificate of deposit accounts at varying interest rates and terms. The Bank also offers investment, insurance IRA and KEOGHIRA products. Business customers are offered several checking account and savings plans, cash management services, remote deposit capture services, payroll origination services, escrow account management and business credit cards. The Bank focuses on relationship banking for retail and business customers to enhance the customer experience. Deposit activity is influenced by state and local economic conditions, changes in interest rates, internal pricing decisions and competition. Deposits are primarily obtained from the areas surrounding the Bank’s branch locations. To attract and retain deposits, the Bank offers competitive rates, quality customer service and a wide variety of products and services that meet customers’ needs, including online and mobile banking.
Deposit pricing strategy is monitored monthly by the management Asset/Liability Committee and Pricing Committee. Deposit pricing is set weekly by the Bank’s Treasury Department. When setting deposit pricing, the Bank considers competitive


market rates, FHLBNY advance rates and rates on other sources of funds. Core deposits, defined as savingsSavings accounts, interest and non-interest bearing checking accounts and money market deposit accounts, represented 90.5%89.4% of total deposits atas of December 31, 20172023 and 90.1%92.9% of total deposits atas of December 31, 2016.2022. As of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, time deposits maturing in less than one year amounted to $424.4$1.02 billion and $584.2 million, respectively. Our estimated uninsured and $439.0uncollateralized deposits at December 31, 2023 totaled $2.52 billion, or 24.5% of deposits. Our total estimated uninsured deposits, including
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collateralized deposits as of December 31, 2023 was $5.16 billion. Within time deposits, $100.0 million respectively.or 9.1% was uninsured as of December 31, 2023.
The following table indicates the amount of certificates of deposit by time remaining until maturity as of December 31, 2017.2023 by time remaining to maturity.
 MaturityTotal
 
3 Months
or Less
Over 3 to
6 Months
Over 6 to
12 Months
Over 12
Months
 (In thousands)
Certificates of deposit of $250,000 or more$112,936 $72,709 $22,296 $11,720 $219,661 
Certificates of deposit less than $250,000400,560 278,801 132,982 63,938 876,281 
Total certificates of deposit$513,496 $351,510 $155,278 $75,658 $1,095,942 

 Maturity Total
 
3 Months
or Less
 
Over 3 to
6 Months
 
Over 6 to
12 Months
 
Over 12
Months
 
 (Dollars in thousands)
Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more$143,270
 $44,581
 $33,288
 $94,935
 $316,074
Certificates of deposit less than $100,00075,241
 62,882
 65,186
 115,426
 318,735
Total certificates of deposit$218,511
 $107,463
 $98,474
 $210,361
 $634,809

Certificates of Deposit Maturities. The following table sets forth certain information regarding certificates of deposit.
 Period to Maturity from December 31, 2023As of December 31,
 
Less Than
One Year
One to
Two
Years
Two to
Three
Years
Three to
Four Years
Four to
Five Years
Five Years
or More
202320222021
  (In thousands)
Rate:
0.00 to 0.99%$290,988 $18,994 $10,518 $6,071 $5,428 $— $331,999 $327,655 $521,257 
1.00 to 2.00%9,526 14,777 312 217 58 18 24,908 73,932 127,114 
2.01 to 3.00%12,055 407 — — — — 12,462 145,254 42,963 
3.01 to 4.00%116,042 1,590 — — — — 117,632 94,524 1,181 
4.01 to 5.00%591,674 17,149 118 — — — 608,941 110,071 — 
Total$1,020,285 $52,917 $10,948 $6,288 $5,486 $18 $1,095,942 $751,436 $692,515 
 Period to Maturity from December 31, 2017 At December 31,
 
Less Than
One Year
 
One to
Two
Years
 
Two to
Three
Years
 
Three to
Four Years
 
Four to
Five Years
 
Five Years
or More
 2017 2016 2015
 (Dollars in thousands)
Rate:                 
0.00 to 0.99%$249,087
 $30,103
 $4,115
 $
 $9
 $255
 $283,569
 $421,772
 $497,327
1.00 to 2.00%175,361
 65,190
 49,875
 24,992
 23,978
 3,296
 342,692
 228,111
 226,456
2.01 to 3.00%
 284
 713
 155
 7,392
 
 8,544
 950
 15,081
3.01 to 4.00%
 
 
 4
 
 
 4
 4
 23
4.01 to 5.00%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 104
 492
5.01 to 6.00%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 200
 302
6.01 to 7.00%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 6
 6
Over 7.01%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 36
 34
Total$424,448
 $95,577
 $54,703
 $25,151
 $31,379
 $3,551
 $634,809
 $651,183
 $739,721


Borrowed Funds. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank had $1.74$1.97 billion of borrowed funds. Borrowed funds consist primarily of FHLBNY advances and repurchase agreements. Repurchase agreements are contracts for the sale of securities owned or borrowed by the Bank, with an agreement to repurchase those securities at an agreed-upon price and date. The Bank uses wholesale repurchase agreements, as well as retail repurchase agreements as an investment vehicle for its commercial sweep checking product. Bank policies limit the use of repurchase agreements to collateral consisting of U.S. Treasury obligations, U.S. government agency obligations or mortgage-related securities.
In March 2023, the Bank established a facility under the Bank Term Funding Program ("BTFP") with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The Bank pledged approximately $521 million in security collateral to the facility improving its access to immediate funding. Advances under the Program can be requested until March 11, 2024. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $450 million of advances under the Program. We elected to participate in the BTFP program due to significant cost savings compared to other wholesale funding sources. The funding was used to pay off existing wholesale borrowings. The ability to prepay at any time without penalty also enhances our ability to manage our interest rate risk position.
As a member of the FHLBNY, the Bank is eligible to obtain advances upon the security of the FHLBNY common stock owned and certain residential mortgage loans, provided certain standards related to credit-worthinesscreditworthiness have been met. FHLBNY advances are available pursuant to several credit programs, each of which has its own interest rate and range of maturities.

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The following table sets forth the maximum month-end balance and average balance of FHLBNY advances, FED BTFP borrowings and securities sold under agreements to repurchase for the periods indicated.
Years Ended December 31, Years Ended December 31,
2017
2016
2015 202320222021
(Dollars in thousands) (Dollars in thousands)
Maximum Balance:




FHLBNY advances$1,288,448
 $1,343,095
 $1,363,122
FHLBNY line of credit472,000
 173,000
 160,000
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase210,702
 283,233
 346,361
Average Balance:     
FHLBNY advances
FHLBNY advances1,237,979
 1,315,278
 1,249,193
FHLBNY line of credit179,003
 37,608
 80,847
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase164,982
 224,421
 273,934
Weighted Average Interest Rate:     
FED BTFP Borrowing
Average Balance:
FHLBNY advances
FHLBNY advances
FHLBNY advances1.78% 1.76% 1.84%
FHLBNY line of credit1.17
 0.61
 0.40
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase1.26
 1.42
 1.49
FED BTFP Borrowing
Weighted Average Interest Rate:
FHLBNY advances
FHLBNY advances
FHLBNY advances3.18 %0.85 %1.27 %
FHLBNY line of credit
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase
FED BTFP Borrowing
The following table sets forth certain information as to borrowings at the dates indicated.
 As of December 31,
202320222021
 (Dollars in thousands)
FHLBNY advances$1,299,872 $753,370 $510,014 
FHLBNY line of credit148,000 486,000 — 
Securities sold under repurchase agreements72,161 98,000 116,760 
FED BTFP Borrowing450,000 — — 
Total borrowed funds$1,970,033 $1,337,370 $626,774 
Weighted average interest rate of FHLBNY advances3.07 %2.24 %1.23 %
Weighted average interest rate of FHLBNY line of credit5.61 %4.61 %— %
Weighted average interest rate of securities sold under agreements to repurchase2.01 %0.59 %0.30 %
Weighted average interest rate of FED BTFP Borrowing4.83 %— %— %
 At December 31,

2017
2016
2015
 (Dollars in thousands)
FHLBNY advances1,127,335
 1,295,080
 1,350,282
FHLBNY line of credit472,000
 161,000
 96,000
Securities sold under repurchase agreements143,179
 156,665
 261,350
Total borrowed funds$1,742,514
 $1,612,745
 $1,707,632
Weighted average interest rate of FHLBNY advances1.74% 1.77% 1.77%
Weighted average interest rate of FHLBNY line of credit1.53% 0.79% 0.49%
Weighted average interest rate of securities sold under agreements to repurchase1.00% 1.35% 1.47%
Subordinated Debentures. Sussex Capital Trust II, a non-consolidated subsidiary of the Company acquired as part of the SB One acquisition and a Delaware statutory business trust established on June 28, 2007, issued $12.5 million of variable rate capital trust pass-through securities to investors. In accordance with FASB ASC 810, Consolidation, Sussex Capital Trust II, is not included in our consolidated financial statements. For regulatory reporting purposes, capital trust pass-through securities qualify as Tier I capital subject to specified limitations.
Subordinated debentures as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 totaled $10.7 million and $10.5 million, respectively.
WEALTH MANAGEMENT SERVICES
As part of the Company’s strategy to increase fee related income, the Company’sBank’s wholly owned subsidiary, Beacon Trust Company, and its registered investment advisor subsidiary, Beacon Investment Advisory Services, Inc., (“Beacon”) isare engaged in providing wealth management and assetservices. These services include investment management, services. In addition to its trust and estate administration, financial planning and tax compliance and planning. In addition to sourcing clients through Beacon's existing
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clients and other referrals, services Beacon is also a provider of asset management services which are often introducedoffered to existing clientscustomers through the Bank’s extensive branch, network. Beacon offers a full range of asset management services to individuals, municipalities, non-profits, corporationslending and pension funds. These services include investment management, asset allocation, trust and fiduciary services, financial and tax planning, family office services, estate settlement services and custody.insurance networks.
Beacon focuses on delivering personalized investment strategiessolutions based on the needs and objectives for each client’s risk profile. These strategies are focused on maximizing clients’ investment returns, while minimizing expenses. Mostclient. The majority of the fee income generated by Beacon is based on total assets under management. For the year ended December 31, 2023, asset management fees constituted 82.4% of total wealth management income.
INSURANCE AGENCY OPERATIONS
Provident Protection Plus, Inc., formerly SB One Insurance Agency, Inc., is a retail insurance broker operating in the State of New Jersey. The insurance agency’s primary source of revenue is commission income, which is earned by placing insurance coverage for its customers with various insurance underwriters. The insurance agency places property and casualty, life and health coverage with about twenty different insurance carriers.
SUBSIDIARY ACTIVITIES
PFS Insurance Services, Inc., formerly Provident Investment Services, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank, and a New Jersey licensed insurance producer that sells insurance and investment products, including annuities to customers through a third-party networking arrangement.
Dudley Investment Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank which operates as a New Jersey Investment Company. Dudley Investment Corporation owns all of the outstanding common stock of Gregory Investment Corporation.


Gregory Investment Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Dudley Investment Corporation. Gregory Investment Corporation operates as a Delaware Investment Company. Gregory Investment Corporation owns all of the outstanding common stock of PSB Funding Corporation.
PSB Funding Corporation is a majority owned subsidiary of Gregory Investment Corporation. It was established as a New Jersey corporation to engage in the business of a real estate investment trust for the purpose of acquiring mortgage loans and other real estate related assets from the Bank.
Bergen Avenue Realty, LLC, a New Jersey limited liability company is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank formed to manage and sell real estate acquired through foreclosure. At December 31, 2017, Bergen Avenue Realty, LLC had total assets of $4.1 million.
Bergen Avenue Realty PA, LLC, a Pennsylvania limited liability company is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank formed to manage and sell real estate acquired through foreclosure in Pennsylvania. At December 31, 2017, Bergen Avenue Realty PA, LLC had total assets of $854,000.
Beacon Trust Company, a New Jersey limited purpose trust company, is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank.
Beacon Investment Advisory Services, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Beacon Trust Company, incorporated under Delaware law and is a registered investment advisor.
PERSONNELProvident Protection Plus, Inc. (formerly SB One Insurance Company, Inc.), a full service insurance agency offering both commercial and personal lines of insurance, is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank.
Sussex Capital Trust II is a Delaware statutory business trust and a non-consolidated subsidiary of the Company.
The Bank has the following active subsidiaries formed to manage and sell real estate acquired through foreclosure:
Bergen Avenue Realty, LLC, a New Jersey limited liability company;
Bergen Avenue Realty II, LLC, a New Jersey limited liability company;
Bergen Avenue Realty PA, LLC, a Pennsylvania limited liability company; and
490 Boulevard Realty Corp, a New Jersey corporation.
Human Capital Resources
As of December 31, 2017,2023, the Company had 9571,109 full-time and 9733 part-time employees. None of the Company’s employees are represented by a collective bargaining group.
The Company provides several programs and benefits designed to enhance the employee experience. In addition to our robust health and wellness benefits that include annual employer contributions to health savings accounts, we promote physical and emotional well-being through our Discover Wellness program. Discover Wellness focuses on engagement and awareness-based programs, combining both educational seminars and physical activities to promote healthy behaviors. In recognition of our on-going commitment to creating a healthier workplace for our employees, our Discover Wellness program was again recognized as a gold award winner in Aetna’s Workplace Well-being program.
24


Employees can also engage with the Company-sponsored Employee Assistance Program for mental health and legal assistance, using both telephonic and chat options.
We believe that employees should share in the financial success of the Company. One way we accomplish this is through Company support of retirement preparation. In 2023, new employees were eligible for a cash 401(k) profit-sharing contribution while employees hired prior to December 31, 2022 were eligible to participate in the Employee Stock Ownership Plan, which enables employees to accumulate PFS, Inc. shares. The profit-sharing and ESOP contributions are 100% funded by the Company. In addition, to further assist employees with retirement planning, our 401(k) plan has a 25% company match on the first 6% of eligible compensation deferred.
The Company also provides full-time employees with life insurance coverage at one times salary to provide financial security for their families.
We believe pursuit of secondary education is a means for employees to build their financial futures. Provident EDYOU assists employees with tuition and student loan repayments after three months of employment.
Employees may also be eligible to receive continuing education assistance and, for certain functions, the potential increase to their base salary after the completion of professional certification programs.
Consistent with our commitment to assisting the communities we serve through monetary assistance provided by the Bank and The Provident Bank Foundation, we encourage our employees to engage in community service. We offer our employees paid time off to assist in their chosen charitable and community-based endeavors.
Our Company is committed to fostering an inclusive working environment that promotes social and cultural diversity and is free from harassment or discrimination of any kind. We are proud of our diverse workforce, including women holding 61% of managerial positions. We sponsor and support programs like ProvidentWomen which advances personal and professional growth of women in business through education, networking events and volunteer opportunities. We are equally as proud of our Provident Salutes initiative, which embraces the proud community of employee veterans, military family members, and military advocates, and provides a platform for education and support for veterans in the workplace and the community. We are honored to be recognized by NJBIZ as one of the inaugural 2023 Empowering Woman Honorees. The Bank’s HR and Diversity Business Partner received the “DEI Champion Award” from the National Diversity Council and our Provident Salutes co-founder and President was recognized by NJBIZ with their Veteran in Business award.
Overall, the Company is committed to creating a working environment that promotes employee engagement, professional development and recognition for living by our guiding principles. The Company believes its working relationship with its employees is good.
REGULATION andAND SUPERVISION
General
As a bank holding company controlling the Bank, the Company is subject to the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 as amended (“BHCA”), as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board under the BHCA.The Company is also subject to the provisions of the New Jersey Banking Act of 1948 (the “New Jersey Banking Act”) and the accompanying regulations of the Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (“Commissioner”) under the New Jersey Banking Act applicable to bank holding companies.The Company and the Bank are required to file reports with, and otherwise comply with, the rules and regulations of the Federal Reserve Board and the Commissioner.The Federal Reserve Board and the Commissioner conduct periodic examinations to assess the Company’s compliance with various regulatory requirements. The company filed an election to qualify as a financial holding company under federal regulations on January 31, 2014, which was deemed effective by the Federal Reserve Board on March 5, 2015. Additionally, the Company files certain reports with, and otherwise complies with, the rules and regulations of the SEC under the federal securities laws and the listing requirements of the New York Stock Exchange.
The Bank is a New Jersey chartered savings bank, and its deposit accounts are insured up to applicable limits by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”).FDIC. The Bank is subject to extensive regulation, examination and supervision by the Commissioner as the issuer of its charter and by the FDIC as its deposit insurer. insurer and primary federal prudential regulator.The Bank files reports with the Commissioner and the FDIC concerning its activities and financial condition, and it must obtain regulatory approval prior to entering into certain transactions, such as mergers with, or acquisitions of, other depository institutions and opening or acquiring branch offices.The Commissioner and the FDIC conduct periodic examinations to assess the Bank’s compliance with various regulatory requirements.This regulation and supervision establishesestablish a comprehensive framework of activities in which a savings bank can engage and is intended primarily for the protection of the deposit insurance fundDeposit Insurance Fund ("DIF") and depositors. The regulatory structureThis framework also gives the regulatory authorities extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and
25


enforcement activities and examination policies,authority, including the ability to set policies with respect to the classification of assets and the establishment of adequate loancredit loss reserves for regulatory purposes.
Any changeAs of December 31, 2023, the Bank had consolidated assets of $14.21 billion. The Company exceeded $10 billion in applicabletotal consolidated assets in 2020, which subjects the Company to increased supervision and regulation. In particular, the Company is now subject to the direct supervision of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”) with respect to federal consumer laws and regulations. Additionally, under existing federal laws and regulations, whether by the Commissioner, the FDIC, the Federal Reserve Board or through legislation, could have a material adverse impact on the Company andnow (1) receives less debit card fee income; (2) is subject to more stringent compliance requirements under the Bank and their operations.
The“Volcker Rule,” (i.e., a provision of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the “Dodd-Frank(“Dodd-Frank Act”) made extensive changeswhich prohibits banking entities from engaging in the regulation of depository institutionsproprietary trading or investing in or sponsoring hedge funds or private equity funds) and their holding companies. Certain provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act have impacted, and will continue to impact the Company and the Bank. For example, the Dodd-Frank Act created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau as an independent bureau of the Federal Reserve Board. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has assumed responsibility for the implementation of the federal financial consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations and has the authority to impose new requirements. However, institutions with less than $10 billion in assets, such as the Bank, continue to be examined for compliance with consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations by, and are(3) generally is subject to the enforcement


authority of their principal regulator, although the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has back-up authority to examine and enforce consumer protection laws against all institutions, including those with less than $10 billion in assets.
As of December 31, 2017, the Bank had consolidated assets of $9.85 billion. The Dodd-Frank Act established several measures that apply to institutions and holding companies once they reach $10 billion in assets. In addition to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau compliance examinations, as discussed above, limits on debit card interchange fees apply, which will reduce the Bank’s fee income.higher FDIC assessment rates. Certain enhanced prudential standards willare also becomenow applicable such as additional risk management requirements, both from a framework and corporate governance perspective. Stress testing requirements and related filing requirements, which involve assessing the potential impact on the Bank and Company of various scenarios prescribed by the federal regulatory agencies, also become applicable. These and other supervisory and regulatory implications of crossing the $10 billion threshold wouldhave and will likely continue to result in increased regulatory costs.
The material laws and regulations applicable to the Company and the Bank are summarized below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

New Jersey Banking Regulation
Activity Powers. The Bank derives its lending, investment and other activity powers primarily from the applicable provisions of the New Jersey Banking Act and its related regulations. Under these laws and regulations, savings banks, including the Bank, generally may, subject to certain limits, invest in:
(1)real estate mortgages;
(2)consumer and commercial loans;
(3)specific types of debt securities, including certain corporate debt securities and obligations of federal, state and local governments and agencies;
(4)certain types of corporate equity securities; and
(5)certain other assets.
(1)    Real estate mortgages;
(2)    Consumer and commercial loans;
(3)    Specific types of debt securities, including certain corporate debt securities and obligations of federal, state and local governments and agencies;
(4)    Certain types of corporate equity securities; and
(5)    Certain other assets.
A savings bank may also invest pursuant to a “leeway” power that permits investments not otherwise permitted by the New Jersey Banking Act, subject to certain restrictions imposed by the FDIC. “Leeway” investments must comply with a number of limitations on the individual and aggregate amounts of such investments. A savings bank may also exercise trust powers upon the approval of the Commissioner. New Jersey savings banks may exercise those powers, rights, benefits or privileges authorized for national banks or out-of-state banks or for federal or out-of-state savings banks or savings associations, provided that before exercising any such power, right, benefit or privilege, prior approval by the Commissioner by regulation or by specific authorization is required. The exercise of these lending, investment and activity powers is limited by federal law and the related regulations. See “Federal Banking Regulation-Activity Restrictions on State-Chartered Bank”Regulation” below.
Loans-to-One-Borrower Limitations. With certain specified exceptions, a New Jersey chartered savings bank may not make loans or extend credit to a single borrower and to entities related to the borrower in an aggregate amount that would exceed 15% of the bank’s capital funds. A New Jersey chartered savings bank may lend an additional 10% of the bank’s capital funds if secured by collateral meeting the requirements of the New Jersey Banking Act. The Bank currently complies with applicable loans-to-one-borrower limitations.
Dividends. Under the New Jersey Banking Act, a stock savings bank may declare and pay a dividend on its capital stock only to the extent that the payment of the dividend would not impair the capital stock of the savings bank. In addition, a stock savings bank may not pay a dividend unless the savings bank would, after the payment of the dividend, have a surplus of not less than 50% of its capital stock, or the payment of the dividend would not reduce the surplus.stock. Federal law may also limit the amount of dividends that may be paid by the Bank.
Minimum Capital Requirements. Regulations of the Commissioner impose on New Jersey chartered depository institutions, including the Bank, minimum capital requirements similar to those imposed by the FDIC on insured state banks. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank was considered “well capitalized” under FDIC guidelines.
Loans to a Bank’s Insiders. Provisions of the New Jersey Banking Act also impose conditions and limitations on the liabilities owed to a savings bank by its directors and executive officers and by corporations and partnerships controlled by such persons that are comparable in many respects to the conditions and limitations imposed on the loans and extensions of credit to insiders and their related interests under Regulation O, as discussed below. The New Jersey Banking Act also provides that a
26


savings bank that is in compliance with Regulation O is deemed to be in compliance with such provisions of the New Jersey Banking Act.
Examination and Enforcement. The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance may examine the Company and the Bank whenever it deems an examination advisable. The Departmentadvisable and it examines the Bank at least every two years. The Commissioner may order any savings bank to discontinue any violation of law or unsafe or unsound business practice and may direct any director, officer, attorney or employee of a savings bank engaged in an objectionable activity, after the Commissioner has ordered the activity to be terminated, to show cause at a hearing before the Commissioner why such person should not be removed.


Federal Banking Regulation
Capital Requirements. Federal regulations require federally insured depository institutions to meet several minimum capital standards: a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 4.5%, a Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 6.0%, a total capital to risk-based assets ratio of 8.0%, and a 4.0% Tier 1 capital to total assets leverage ratio. These capital requirements are the resultratio of a final rule implementing recommendations of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision and certain requirements of the Dodd-Frank Act, and were effective January 1, 2015.4.0%.
In determining the amount of risk-weighted assets for purposes of calculating risk-based capital ratios, all assets, including certain off-balance sheet assets (e.g., recourse obligations, direct credit substitutes, residual interests) are multiplied by a risk weight factor assigned by the regulations based on the risks believed inherent in the type of asset. Higher levels of capital are required for asset categories believed to present greater risk. Common equity Tier 1 capital is generally defined as common stockholders’ equity and retained earnings. Tier 1 capital is generally defined as common equity Tier 1 and additional Tier 1 capital. Additional Tier 1 capital includes certain noncumulative perpetual preferred stock and related surplus and minority interests in equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries. Total capital includes Tier 1 capital (common equity Tier 1 capital plus additional Tier 1 capital) and Tier 2 capital. Tier 2 capital is comprised of capital instruments and related surplus, meeting specified requirements, and may include cumulative preferred stock and long-term perpetual preferred stock, mandatory convertible securities, intermediate preferred stock and subordinated debt. Also included in Tier 2 capital is the allowance for loan and leasecredit losses limited to a maximum of 1.25% of risk-weighted assets and, for institutions that have exercised an opt-out election regarding the treatment of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, up to 45% of net unrealized gains on available-for-sale equity securities with readily determinable fair market values. The Company elected to opt-out of this election. Calculation of all types of regulatory capital is subject to deductions and adjustments specified in the regulations. In assessing an institution’s capital adequacy, the FDIC takes into consideration, not only these numeric factors, but qualitative factors as well, and has the authority to establish higher capital requirements for individual institutions where deemed necessary.
In addition to establishing the minimum regulatory capital requirements, thefederal regulations limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments to management if the institution does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” consisting of 2.5% of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assetassets above the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements. The
Through subsequent rulemaking, the federal banking agencies provided certain forms of relief to banking organizations that are not subject to the advanced approaches capital conservation buffer requirement was effectiverule (i.e., banks with $250 billion or more in total assets or $10 billion or more in total foreign exposures). Under the rule, non-advanced approaches banking organizations such as the Bank will apply a simpler regulatory capital treatment for mortgage servicing assets (“MSAs”); certain deferred tax assets (“DTAs”) arising from temporary differences; investments in the capital of unconsolidated financial institutions other than those currently applied; and capital issued by a consolidated subsidiary of a banking organization and held by third parties (often referred to as minority interest) that is includable in regulatory capital. In addition, certain general requirements of the regulation have been eliminated in respect of non-advanced approaches institutions, including: (i) the capital rule’s 10 percent common equity Tier 1 capital deduction threshold that applies individually to MSAs, temporary difference DTAs, and significant investments in the capital of unconsolidated financial institutions in the form of common stock; (ii) the aggregate 15 percent common equity Tier 1 capital deduction threshold that subsequently applies on a collective basis across such items; (iii) the 10 percent common equity Tier 1 capital deduction threshold for non-significant investments in the capital of unconsolidated financial institutions; and (iv) the deduction treatment for significant investments in the capital of unconsolidated financial institutions not in the form of common stock. Accordingly, non-advanced approaches banking organizations deduct from common equity Tier 1 capital any amount of MSAs, temporary difference DTAs, and investments in the capital of unconsolidated financial institutions that individually exceeds 25 percent of common equity Tier 1 capital.
In August 2020, the federal bank regulatory authorities issued a final rule providing banking institutions that had adopted the CECL accounting standard in the 2020 calendar year with the option to delay for two years the estimated impact of CECL on regulatory capital, followed by a three-year transition period to phase out the aggregate amount of the capital benefit provided during the initial two-year delay (i.e., a five-year transition in total). In connection with its adoption of CECL on
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January 1, 2016 at 0.625%2020, the Company elected to utilize the five-year CECL transition. Further information regarding the impact of risk-weighted assetsCECL can be found in Note 5 "Held to Maturity Debt Securities", Note 7 "Loans Receivable and will increase each year until fully implemented at 2.5%Allowance for Credit Losses", and Note 17 "Allowance for Credit Losses on January 1, 2019. The capital conservation buffer during the calendar year 2017 was 1.25% and increased to 1.875% on January 1, 2018.Off-Balance Sheet Credit Exposures".
The following table shows the Bank’s Tier 1 leverage ratio, common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, and total risk-based capital ratio, atas of December 31, 2017:2023:
As of December 31, 2017 As of December 31, 2023
Capital 
Percent  of
Assets
(1)
 
Capital
Requirements
(1)
 
Capital
Requirements with Capital Conservation Buffer (1)
Capital
Percent of
Assets(1)
Capital
Requirements (1)
Capital
Requirements with Capital Conservation Buffer (1)
(Dollars in thousands) (Dollars in thousands)
Tier 1 leverage capital$834,084
 9.07% 4.00% 4.00%Tier 1 leverage capital$1,343,223 9.84 9.84 %4.00 %4.00 %
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital834,084
 11.15
 4.50
 5.75
Tier 1 risk-based capital834,084
 11.15
 6.00
 7.25
Total risk-based capital894,430
 11.95
 8.00
 9.25
(1) For purposes of calculating regulatory Tier 1 leverage capital, assets are based on adjusted total leverage assets. In calculating common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital, Tier 1 risk-based capital and total risk-based capital, assets are based on total risk-weighted assets.
As of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank was considered “well capitalized” under FDIC guidelines.
Stress Testing.As part of the regulatory relief provided by the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act of 2018 (“Economic Growth Act”), the asset threshold requiring insured depository institutions (“IDIs”) to conduct and report to their primary federal bank regulators annual company-run stress tests was raised from $10 billion to $250 billion in total consolidated assets and the requirement was made “periodic” rather than annual. The Economic Growth Act also provided that bank holding companies with under $100 billion in assets were no longer subject to stress testing requirements. The amendments also provide the Federal Reserve with discretion to subject bank holding companies with more than $100 billion in total assets to enhanced supervision.Notwithstanding these amendments, the federal banking agencies indicated through interagency guidance that the capital planning and risk management practices of institutions with total assets less than $100 billion would continue to be reviewed through the regular supervisory process. As part of its risk management processes, the Bank routinely stress tests the Bank’s capital under a variety of economic stress scenarios and manages its capital position accordingly. As a result of these amendments, the Bank and the Company currently are not subject to company-run stress testing requirements.
The Volcker Rule.A provision of the Dodd-Frank Actprohibits insured depository institutions and their holding companies from engaging in proprietary trading except in limited circumstances, and it prohibits them from owning equity interests in excess of three percent of Tier 1 Capital in private equity and hedge funds (known as the “Volcker Rule”).The Volcker Rule and its implementing regulations prohibit banking entities from: (1) engaging in short-term proprietary trading for their own accounts; and (2) having certain ownership interests in and relationships with hedge funds or private equity funds, which are referred to as “covered funds.” Banking entities also are required to establish internal compliance programs that are consistent with the extent to which an entity engages in activities covered by the Volcker Rule.
In November 2019, the five federal regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over the Volcker Rule (the “Volcker Rule Agencies”) issued a final rule revising certain aspects of the Volcker Rule’s implementing regulations. The final rule simplified and streamlined compliance requirements for firms that do not have significant trading activities and enhances requirements for firms that do. Under the amended regulations, compliance requirements are based on the amount of assets and liabilities that a bank trades. Firms with significant trading activities (i.e., those with $20 billion or more in trading assets and liabilities), have heightened compliance obligations. Compliance with the amended regulations has been required since January 1, 2021.
Further, in June 2020, the Volcker Rule Agencies issued a final rule modifying the Volcker Rule's prohibition on banking entities' investing in or sponsoring “covered funds.” The final rule (1) streamlined the covered funds portion of the rule; (2) addressed the extraterritorial treatment of certain foreign funds; and (3) permitted banking entities to offer financial services and engage in other activities that do not raise concerns that the Volcker Rule was intended to address. Although we have benefited from significantly reduced compliance obligations due to the level of our trading assets being below the $20 billion threshold, we remain subject to the modified rules and requirements related to covered funds.
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Activity Restrictions on State-Chartered Banks. Federal law and FDIC regulations generally limit the activities and investments of state-chartered FDIC insured banks and their subsidiaries to those permissible for national banks and their subsidiaries, unless such activities and investments are specifically exempted by law or consented to by the FDIC.
Before making a new investment or engaging in a new activity that is not permissible for a national bank or otherwise permissible under federal law or FDIC regulations, an insured bank must seek approval from the FDIC to make such investment or engage in such activity. The FDIC will not approve the activity unless the bank meets its minimum capital requirements and


the FDIC determines that the activity does not present a significant risk to the FDIC insurance fund.DIF. Certain activities of subsidiaries that are engaged in activities permitted for national banks only through a “financial subsidiary” are subject to additional restrictions.
Federal law permits a state-chartered savings bank to engage, through financial subsidiaries, in any activity in which a national bank may engage through a financial subsidiary and on substantially the same terms and conditions. In general, the law permits a national bank that is well-capitalized and well-managed to conduct, through a financial subsidiary, any activity permitted for a financial holding company other than insurance underwriting, insurance investments, real estate investment or development or merchant banking. The total assets of all such financial subsidiaries may not exceed the lesser of 45% of the bank’s total assets or $50 billion. The bank must have policies and procedures to assess the financial subsidiary’s risk and protect the bank from such risk and potential liability, must not consolidate the financial subsidiary’s assets with the bank’s, and must exclude from its own assets and equity all equity investments, including retained earnings, in the financial subsidiary. The Bank currently meets all conditions necessary to establish and engage in permitted activities through financial subsidiaries.
Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") System. The Bank is a member of the FHLB system which consists of twelveeleven regional FHLBs, each subject to supervision and regulation by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA”).FHFA. The FHLB provides a central credit facility primarily for member institutions. As a member of the FHLB of New York,FHLBNY, the Bank is required to purchase and hold shares of capital stock in that FHLBthe FHLBNY in an amount as required by that FHLB’sFHLBNY’s capital plan and minimum capital requirements. The Bank is in compliance with these requirements. The Bank has received dividends on its FHLBNY stock, although no assurance can be given that these dividends will continue to be paid. For the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, dividends paid by the FHLBNY to the Bank totaled $4.1$6.1 million.
Deposit Insurance.As a member institution of the FDIC, deposit accounts at the Bank are generally insured by the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund (“DIF”)DIF up to a maximum of $250,000 for each separately insured depositor.
Under the FDIC’s risk-based assessment system, insured institutions were originally assigned a risk category based on supervisory evaluations, regulatory capital levels and certain other factors. An institution’s assessment rate depended upon the category to which it was assigned, and certain adjustments specified by FDIC regulations. Institutions deemed less risky paid lower assessments. No institution may pay a dividend if it is in default of its federal deposit insurance assessment.
The Dodd-Frank Act required the FDIC to revise its procedures to base its assessments upon each insured institution’s total assets less tangible equity instead of deposits. The FDIC finalized a rule, effective April 1, 2011, that set the assessment range (inclusive of possible adjustments) at 25 to 45 basis points of total assets less tangible equity. However, as described below, there were recent changes to both the FDIC’s assessment range and its risk-based assessment procedures.
The FDIC has established a long range target size for the DIF of 2 percent of insured deposits. The FDIC’s regulations also provided for a lower assessment rate schedule when the DIF reached 1.15% of total insured deposits. The 1.15% ratio was achieved as of June 30, 2016. As a result, effective July 1, 2016, the assessment range (inclusive of possible adjustments) has been lowered to 1.5 to 30 basis points for banks of less than $10 billion in consolidated assets. The Dodd-Frank Act requires banksBanks of greater than $10 billion, of assets to pay to increasesuch as the DIF reserve ratio from 1.15% to 1.35%. Consequently, also effective July 1, 2016, banks of greater than $10 billion of assets now pay a surcharge of 4.5 basis points on assets above $10 billion until the earlier of the reserve ratio reaching 1.35% or December 31, 2018 (when a short fall assessment would be applied). At the same time, the FDIC eliminated the risk categories. Most institutions are now assessed based on financial ratios derived from statistical models that estimate the probability of a bank’s failure within three years. Banks of greater than $10 billionBank, are assessed based on a rate derived from a scorecard which assesses certain factors such as examination ratings and financial measures related to the bank’s ability to withstand stress and measures of loss severity to the DIF if the bank should fail. The Bank has exceeded $10 billion in assets for four consecutive calendar quarters and is now classified as a large institution for deposit insurance assessment purposes, resulting in a higher FDIC insurance premium.
Under current FDIC rules, effective January 1, 2023, the assessment range (inclusive of possible adjustments) for institutions with greater than $10.0 billion of total assets is established at 2.5 to 45 basis points. In addition, the FDIC approved a final rule to implement a special assessment to recover the loss to the DIF associated with protecting uninsured depositors following the closures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. As a result of this rule, the FDIC issued a special assessment of $775,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023.
On October 18, 2022, the FDIC also adopted a final rule, effective January 1, 2023, to incorporate updated accounting standards into deposit insurance assessments applicable to all large insured depository institutions that have adopted FASB’s ASU 2022-02, "Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures,", as defined and further described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. It is difficult to estimate the effect of this rule on insurance assessment rates and management cannot predict what assessment rates will be in the future. Any significant increases in insurance premiums could have an adverse effect on the Company’s operating expenses and results of operations.
Insurance of deposits may be terminated by the FDIC upon a finding that the institution has engaged or is engaging in unsafe and unsound practices, is in an unsafe or unsound condition to continue operations, or has violated any applicable law, regulation, order or condition imposed by the FDIC or written agreement entered into with the FDIC. Management does not know of any practice, condition or violation that might lead to termination of deposit insurance.
Brokered Deposits. The Federal Deposit Insurance Act and FDIC regulations thereunder limit the ability of banks to accept, renew or rollover brokered deposits unless the institution is well capitalized under the prompt corrective action framework discussed in greater detail below, or unless it is adequately capitalized and obtains a waiver from the FDIC. Less-than-well-capitalized banks also are subject to restrictions on the interest rates that they may pay on deposits. The characterization of deposits as “brokered” may result in the imposition of higher deposit assessments on such deposits. In December 2020, the FDIC issued a final rule amending its regulations governing brokered deposits. The rule sought to clarify
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and modernize the FDIC’s regulatory framework for brokered deposits. Notable aspects of the rule include: (1) the establishment of bright-line standards for determining whether an entity meets the statutory definition of “deposit broker”; (2) the identification of a number of business relationships in which the agent or nominee is automatically not deemed to be a “deposit broker” because their primary purpose is not the placement of funds with depository institutions (the “primary purpose exception”); (3) the establishment of a more transparent application process for entities that seek the “primary purpose exception,” but do not qualify as one of the identified business relationships to which the exception is automatically applicable; and (4) the clarification that third parties that have an exclusive deposit-placement arrangement with only one IDI is not considered a “deposit broker.” The final rule took effect in April 2021 and full compliance with the rule has been required since January 1, 2022. Further, as mandated by the Economic Growth Act, the FDIC’s brokered deposit regulations provide a limited exception for reciprocal deposits for banks that are well managed and well capitalized (or adequately capitalized and have obtained a waiver from the FDIC as mentioned above). Under the limited exception, qualified banks can be exempt from treatment as “brokered” deposits up to $5 billion or 20 percent of the institution’s total liabilities in reciprocal deposits (which are defined as deposits received by a financial institution through a deposit placement network with the same maturity (if any) and in the same aggregate amount as deposits placed by the institution in other network member banks).
Enforcement. The FDIC has extensive enforcement authority over insured state-chartered savings banks, including the Bank. This enforcement authority includes, among other things, the ability to assess civil money penalties, to issue cease and desist orders and to remove directors and officers. In general, these enforcement actions may be initiated in response to violations of law andor regulation or to engagement in unsafe or unsound practices.
Transactions with Affiliates. Transactions between an insured bank, such as the Bank, and any of its affiliates are governed by Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act, made applicable to the Bank through the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, and itsthe Federal Reserve Act's implementing regulations.regulation, Regulation W. An affiliate of a bank isincludes any company or entity that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with the bank. A subsidiary of a bank that is not also a depository institution, financial subsidiary or other entity defined by the regulation generally is not treated as an affiliate of the bank for purposes of Sections 23A and 23B.23B and Regulation W.


Among other things, Section 23A:
limitsLimits the extent to which a bank or its subsidiaries may engage in “covered transactions” with any one affiliate to an amount equal to 10% of such bank’s capital stock and retained earnings,surplus, and limits all such transactions with all affiliates to an amount equal to 20% of such capital stock and retained earnings;surplus; and
requiresRequires that all such transactions"covered transactions" be on terms and conditions that are consistent with safe and sound banking practices.
The term “covered transaction” includes the making of loans, purchase of assets, issuance of guarantees and other similar types of transactions. Further, most loans by a bank to any of its affiliates must be secured by collateral in amounts ranging from 100 to 130 percent of the loan amounts. In addition, any covereda transaction bybetween a bank withand an affiliate, and any purchaseincluding covered transactions, the sale of assets or the furnishing of services by a bank fromto an affiliate must be on terms and under circumstances that are substantially the same, or at least as favorable to the bank, as those that would be provided toprevailing at the time for comparable transactions with or involving a non-affiliate.
Prohibitions Against Tying Arrangements. Banks are subject to statutory prohibitions on certain tying arrangements. A depository institution is prohibited, subject to certain exceptions, from extending credit to or offering any other service, or fixing or varying the consideration for such extension of credit or service, on the condition that the customer obtain some additional service from the institution or its affiliates or that the customer not obtain services of a competitor of the institution.
Privacy and Data Security Standards. FDICApplicable regulations require the Company and the Bank to disclose theirits privacy policies, including identifying with whom they shareit shares customers' “non-public personal information” to customers at the time of establishing the customer relationship and annually thereafter.
The FDICFederal regulations also require the Company and the Bank to provide their customers with initial and annual notices that accurately reflect their privacy policies and practices. In addition, the Company and the Bank are required to provide their customers with the ability to “opt-out” of having the Company and the Bank share their non-public personal information with unaffiliated third parties before they can disclose such information, subject to certain exceptions.
The federal banking agencies, including the FDIC, have adopted guidelines for establishing information security standards for implementing safeguards under the supervision of the board of directors. These guidelines, as well as guidance provided by the FDIC, increasingly focus on risk management and processes related to information technology and the use of third parties in the provision of financial services.
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In November 2021, the federal financial regulatory agencies published a final rule that will impose upon banking organizations and their service providers new notification requirements for significant cybersecurity incidents. The final rule took effect on April 1, 2022 and full compliance was required as of May 1, 2022. The final rule requires banking organizations to notify their primary federal regulator as soon as possible and no later than 36 hours after the discovery of a “computer-security incident” that rises to the level of a “notification incident” within the meaning attributed to those terms by the final rule. Banks’ service providers are required under the final rule to notify any affected bank to or on behalf of which the service provider provides services “as soon as possible” after determining that it has experienced an incident that materially disrupts or degrades, or is reasonably likely to materially disrupt or degrade, covered services provided to such bank for as much as four hours. On March 9, 2022, the SEC proposed amendments, which took effect on September 5, 2023, to enhance and standardize disclosures regarding cybersecurity incidents, risk management, and response strategies from public companies subject to reporting requirements under the Exchange Act. The SEC also adopted a final rule that took effect in December 2023, requiring public companies to disclose material cybersecurity incidents within four business days of occurrence and to disclose material information regarding cybersecurity risk management, strategy and governance on an annual basis.
Community Reinvestment Act ("CRA") and Fair Lending Laws.All FDIC insured institutions have a responsibility under the Community Reinvestment ActCRA and relatedits implementing regulations to help meet the credit needs of their entire communities, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods and borrowers (i.e. assessment(s)).borrowers.  In connection with its examination of a state charteredstate-chartered savings bank, the FDIC is required to assess the institution’s record of compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act.CRA.  Among other things, the current Community Reinvestment ActCRA regulations rate an institution based upon its actual performance in meeting community needs.  In particular, the current examination and evaluation process focuses on three tests:
aA lending test, to evaluate the institution’s record of making home mortgage, small business, small farm, and consumer loans, if applicable, in its assessment area(s), with consideration given towards, amongstamong other factors, borrower characteristics and geographic distribution;
anAn investment test, to evaluate the institution’s record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) through qualified investments characterized as a lawful investment, deposit, membership share, or grant that has as its primary purpose community development; and
aA service test, to evaluate the institution’s systems for delivering retail banking services through its branches, ATMs and other offices and access facilities, including the distribution of its branches, ATMs and other offices/access facilities, and the institution’s record of opening and closing branches.
An institution’s failure to comply with the provisions of the Community Reinvestment ActCRA could, at a minimum, result in regulatory restrictions on its activities, including, but not limited to, engaging in acquisitions and mergers.  The Bank received an “Outstanding” Community Reinvestment Acta “Satisfactory” CRA rating in its most recently completed federal examination, which was conducted bydated June 21, 2021.
On October 24, 2023, the FDIC, the Federal Reserve Board ("FRB") and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”) issued a final rule to strengthen and modernize the CRA regulations. Under the final rule, banks with assets of at least $2 billion as of December 2014.31 in both of the prior two calendar years will be considered a "large bank." The agencies will evaluate large banks under four performance tests: the Retail Lending Test; the Retail Services and Products Test; the Community Development Financing Test; and the Community Development Services Test. The applicability date for the majority of the provisions in the new CRA regulations is January 1, 2026, and additional requirements will be applicable on January 1, 2027.


In addition, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act prohibit lenders from discriminating in their lending practices on the basis of the borrower’s characteristics as specified in those statutes.  An institution’s failure to comply with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and/or the Fair Housing Act could result in enforcement actions by the FDIC, or the CFPB, as well as other federal regulatory agencies and the Department of Justice.
Safety and Soundness Standards. Each federal banking agency, including the FDIC, has adopted guidelines establishing general standards relating to internal controls, information and internal audit systems, loan documentation, credit underwriting, interest rate exposure, asset growth, asset quality, earnings, compensation, fees and benefits. In general, the guidelines require, among other things, appropriate systems and practices to identify and manage the risks and exposures specified in the guidelines. The guidelines prohibit excessive compensation as an unsafe and unsound practice and describe compensation as excessive when


the amounts paid are unreasonable or disproportionate to the services performed by an executive officer, employee, director, or principal stockholder.
In addition, FDIC regulations require a bank that is given notice by the FDIC that it is not satisfying any of such safety and soundness standards to submit a compliance plan to the FDIC. If, after being so notified, a bank fails to submit an acceptable compliance plan or fails in any material respect to implement an accepted compliance plan, the FDIC may issue an order directing corrective and other actions of the typestype to which a significantly
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undercapitalized institution is subject under the “prompt"prompt corrective action”action" provisions discussed below. If a bank fails to comply with such an order, the FDIC may seek to enforce such an order inenforcement through judicial proceedings and to impose civil monetary penalties.
The Dodd Frank Act requires the federal banking agencies and the SEC to establish joint regulations or guidelines for specified entities, such as us, having at least $1 billion in total assets (including the Company and the Bank), to prohibit incentive-based payment arrangements that encourage inappropriate risk-taking by providing an executive officer, employee, director or principal shareholder with excessive compensation, fees, or benefits or that could lead to material financial loss to the entity. In October 2022, the SEC adopted final rules implementing the incentive-based compensation recovery (“clawback”) provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. The final rules direct stock exchanges to require listed companies to implement clawback policies to recover incentive-based compensation from current or former executive officers in the event of material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirement under the securities law and to disclose their clawback policies and their actions under those policies. It is anticipated that most registrants will have until late 2023 or early 2024 to adopt and implement their policies. The Company has adopted a clawback policy in conformance with this requirement.
Prompt Corrective Action. Federal law requires the FDIC and the other federal banking regulators to promptly resolve the problems of undercapitalized institutions. Federal law also establishes five categories, consisting of “well capitalized,” “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” and “critically undercapitalized.” The FDIC’s regulations define the five capital categories as follows:
An institution will be treated as “well capitalized” if:
itsit has a leverage ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 10%;5% or greater;
its ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 8%;
its ratio ofit has a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 6.5%; and
its ratio of 6.5% or greater;
it has a Tier 1 risk-based capital toratio of 8% or greater;
it has a total assets is at least 5%,risk-based capital ratio of 10% or greater; and
it is not subject to any written agreement, order or capital directive, or prompt corrective action directive issued by the FDIC to meet and maintain a specific capital level.level for any capital measure.
An institution will be treated as “adequately capitalized” if:
itsit has a leverage ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 8%;4% or greater;
its ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 6%;
its ratio ofit has a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets is at least 4.5%; and
its ratio of 4.5% or greater;
it has a Tier 1 risk-based capital toratio of 6% or greater; and
it has a total assets is at least 4% and it is not a well-capitalized institution.risk-based capital ratio of 8% or greater.
An institution will be treated as “undercapitalized” if:
its total risk-based capital isit has a leverage ratio of less than 8%4%; or
its Tier 1 risk-based-capital is less than 6%;
its ratio ofit has a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets isratio of less than 4.5%; or
its leverageit has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio isof less than 4%6%; or
it has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 8%.
An institution will be treated as “significantly undercapitalized” if:
itsit has a leverage ratio of less than 3%;
it has a common equity Tier 1 ratio of less than 3%;
it has a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 4%; or
it has a total risk-based capital isratio of less than 6%;
its Tier 1 capital is less than 4%;
its ratio of common equity to risk-weighted assets is less than 3%; or
its leverage ratio is less than 3%.
An institution that has a tangible capital to total assets ratio equal to or less than 2% would be deemed “critically undercapitalized.” The FDIC is required, with some exceptions, to appoint a receiver or conservator for an insured state bank if that bank is critically undercapitalized. The FDIC may also appoint a conservator or receiver for an insured state bank on the basis of the institution’s financial condition or upon the occurrence of certain events, including:
insolvency,Insolvency, or when the assets of the bank are less than its liabilities to depositors and others;
substantialSubstantial dissipation of assets or earnings through violations of law or unsafe or unsound practices;
existence
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Existence of an unsafe or unsound condition to transact business;
likelihoodLikelihood that the bank will be unable to meet the demands of its depositors or to pay its obligations in the normal course of business; and


insufficientInsufficient capital, or the incurring or likely incurring of losses that will substantially deplete all of the institution’s capital with no reasonable prospect of replenishment of capital without federal assistance.
Consumer Financial Protection. The Dodd-Frank Act established the CFPB to be responsible for interpreting and enforcing federal consumer financial laws, as defined by the Dodd-Frank Act, that, among other things, govern the provision of deposit accounts along with mortgage origination and servicing. Some federal consumer financial laws enforced by the CFPB that the Bank must comply with include the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Truth in Lending Act ("TILA"), the Truth in Savings Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act. The CFPB is also authorized to prevent any institution under its authority from engaging in an unfair, deceptive, or abusive act or practice in connection with consumer financial products and services.
Under TILA, as implemented by Regulation Z, mortgage lenders are required to make a reasonable and good faith determination, based on verified and documented information, that a consumer applying for a mortgage loan has a reasonable ability to repay the loan according to its terms. Alternatively, the mortgage lender can originate “qualified mortgages,” which are entitled to a presumption that the creditor making the loan satisfied the ability-to-repay requirements. In general, a qualified mortgage is a mortgage loan without negative amortization, interest-only payments, balloon payments, or terms exceeding 30 years.
The previously discussedCFPB has exclusive examination and primary enforcement authority with respect to compliance with federal consumer financial protection laws and regulations by institutions under its supervision and is authorized, individually or jointly with the federal bank regulatory agencies, to conduct investigations to determine whether any person is, or has, engaged in conduct that violates such laws or regulations. The CFPB may bring an administrative enforcement proceeding or civil action in Federal district court. In addition, in accordance with a memorandum of understanding entered into between the CFPB and the Department of Justice, the two agencies have agreed to coordinate efforts related to enforcing the fair lending laws, which includes information sharing and conducting joint investigations. Because the Company has exceeded $10 billion in assets, it is subject to the supervisory and enforcement authority of the CFPB related to federal consumer financial protection laws and regulations.
The Dodd-Frank Act also permits states to adopt stricter consumer protection laws and state attorneys general to enforce consumer protection rules issued by the CFPB. As a result of these aspects of the Dodd-Frank Act, the Bank is operating in a stringent consumer compliance environment and is incurring additional costs related to consumer protection compliance, including but not limited to potential costs associated with CFPB examinations. The CFPB, other financial regulatory agencies, as well as the Department of Justice have recently pursued a number of enforcement actions against depository institutions with respect to compliance with fair lending laws.
Anti-Money Laundering.The Bank must comply with the anti-money laundering (“AML”) provisions of the Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”) as amended by the USA PATRIOT Act and implementing regulations issued by the FDIC and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The USA PATRIOT Act gives the federal government powers to address terrorist threats through enhanced domestic security measures, expanded surveillance powers, increased information sharing, and broadened AML requirements.
The bank regulatory agencies have increased the regulatory scrutiny of the BSA and AML programs maintained by financial institutions. Significant penalties and fines, as well as other supervisory orders may be imposed on a financial institution for non-compliance with these requirements. In addition, the federal bank regulatory agencies must consider the effectiveness of financial institutions' efforts to combat money laundering when these institutions seek to engage in a merger transaction. The Bank has adopted policies and procedures which are in compliance with these requirements.
On January 1, 2021, Congress passed the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020 ("AML Act"), part of the National Defense Authorization Act, which enacted the most significant overhaul of the BSA since the USA Patriot Act. On September 29, 2022, FinCEN issued a final rule that increased capital requirements effective January 1, 2015 adjustedimplementing the prompt action categories as reflected above.amendments with respect to the reporting of beneficial ownership, the first rule required under the AML Act. On December 22, 2023, FINCEN issued a final rule governing access to its newly-created beneficial ownership database, which will require banks to implement certain safeguards related to accessing information stored in the database, among other things.
Loans to a Bank’s Insiders
Federal Regulation.Bank Insiders. A bank’s loans to its affiliates, executive officers, directors, any owner of 10% or more of its stock (each, an insider) and any of certain entities affiliated withcontrolled by any such person (an insider’s related interest) are subject to the conditions
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and limitations imposed by Section 22(h) of the Federal Reserve Act and the Federal Reserve Board’s Regulation O. Under these restrictions, the aggregate amount of the loans to any insider and the insider’s related interests may not exceed the loans-to-one-borrower limit applicable to national banks, which is comparable to the loans-to-one-borrower limit applicable to loans by the Bank. All loans by a bank to all insiders and insiders’ related interests in the aggregate may not exceed the bank’s unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus. With certain exceptions, loans to an executive officer, other than loans for the education of the officer’s children and certain loans secured by the officer’s residence may not exceed at any one time the higher of 2.5% of the bank’s unimpaired capital and unimpaired surplus or $25,000, but in no event may be more than $100,000. Regulation O also requires that any proposed loan to an insider or a related interest of that insider be approved in advance by a majority of the board of directors of the bank, with any interested directors not participating in the voting, if such loan, when aggregated with any existing loans to that insider and the insider’s related interests, would exceed either (1) $500,000; or (2) the greater of $25,000 or 5% of the bank’s unimpaired capital and surplus.
Generally, loans to insiders and their related interests must be made on substantially the same terms as, and follow credit underwriting procedures that are not less stringent than, those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other persons, and may not involve more than the normal risk of payment or present other unfavorable features. An exception may be made for extensions of credit made pursuant to a benefit or compensation plan of a bank that is widely available to employees of the bank and that does not give any preference to insiders of the bank over other employees of the bank.
In addition, federal law prohibits extensions of credit to a bank’s insiders and their related interests by any other institution that has a correspondent banking relationship with the bank, unless such extension of credit is on substantially the same terms as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other persons and does not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features.
The Bank does not, as a matter of policy,general practice, make loans to its directors, or to their immediate family members and related interests. As of December 31, 2023, the Bank had aggregate loans and loan commitments totaling $3.6 million to its executive officers or their related entities. These loans and loan commitments were made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing for comparable transactions with the general public and do not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features. It is the policy of the Bank that no loan or extension of credit of any type shall be made to any member of the board of directors or their immediate family, or to any entity which is controlled by a member of the board of directors or their immediate family and none existed as of December 31, 2023.
Climate-Related Risk Management and Regulation. In recent years, the federal banking agencies have increased their focus on climate-related risks impacting the operations of banks, the communities they serve, and the broader financial system. In October 2023, the federal banking agencies finalized principles for climate-related financial risk management, intended for financial institutions with over $100 billion in total consolidated assets. The agencies did note, however, that all financial institutions, regardless of size, may have material exposures to climate-related financial risks. As the agencies continue to develop climate-related regulatory guidance, and emphasize management of climate-related risks and controls, we may be required to expend significant capital and incur compliance, operating, maintenance and remediation costs in order to conform to such requirements. On December 21, 2023, the New York State Department of Financial Services ("NYDFS") published final guidance regarding the assessment and management of material climate-related financial and operational risks for financial institutions including those with New York State-licensed branches, regardless of size. NYDFS recommends and expects institutions such as the Bank to, among other things, incorporate climate-related risks management as part of its corporate governance, internal controls, risk management process, data aggregation and reporting, and climate scenario analysis. Other states in which the Bank operates, including but not limited to New Jersey Regulation. Provisionsand Pennsylvania, may also enact legislation or regulation that place requirements on the Bank to address climate-related risks.
Income on Interchange Fees.The Company exceeded $10 billion in assets in 2020 and became subject to the interchange fee cap mandated by the Dodd-Frank Act in July 2021. As such, the fees the Company may receive for an electronic debit transaction are capped at the statutory limit. Historically, the Company had been exempt from the interchange fee cap under the “small issuer” exemption, which applies to any debit card issuer with total worldwide assets (including those of its affiliates) of less than $10 billion as of the New Jersey Bankingend of the previous calendar year. Pursuant to FRB regulations mandated by the Dodd-Frank Act, impose conditions and limitationsinterchange fees on the liabilities oweddebit card transactions are limited to a savings bank by its directors and executive officers and by corporations and partnerships controlled by such persons that are comparable in many respects to the conditions and limitations imposed on the loans and extensionsmaximum of credit to insiders and their related interests under Regulation O, as discussed above. The New Jersey Banking Act also provides that a savings bank that is in compliance with Regulation O is deemed to be in compliance with such provisions$0.21 per transaction plus 5 basis points of the New Jersey Banking Act.
Federal Reserve System
Under Federal Reserve Board regulations,transaction amount. A debit card issuer may recover an additional one cent per transaction for fraud prevention purposes if the Bank is required to maintain non-interest earning reserves against its transaction accounts. For 2018, the Federal Reserve Board regulations generally require that reserves of 3% must be maintained against aggregate transaction accounts over $16.0 million and up to $122.3 million, and 10% against that portion of total transaction accounts in excess of up to $122.3 million. The first $16.0 million of otherwise reservable balances are exempted from the reserve requirements. The Bank is in complianceissuer complies with these requirements. Thesecertain fraud-related requirements are adjusted annuallyprescribed by the Federal Reserve Board. Because required reserves must be maintainedFRB.
Digital Asset Regulation. The federal banking agencies have issued interpretive guidance and statements regarding the engagement by banking organizations in certain digital asset activities. On April 7, 2022, the FDIC issued a financial institution letter also requiring its supervised institutions to provide notice and obtain supervisory feedback prior to engaging in any crypto-related activities.
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More recently, on January 3, 2023, the federal banking agencies issued additional guidance in the form of either vault cash, a non-interest bearing account atjoint statement addressing digital asset-related risks to banking organizations. That statement noted the recent volatility and exposure of vulnerabilities in the digital asset sector and indicated that the agencies are continuing to assess whether or how the digital asset-related activities of banking organizations can be conducted in a Federal Reserve Bank or a pass-through account as defined bysafe and sound manner and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. The statement stressed that each agency has developed, and expects banking organizations to follow, supervisory processes for evaluating proposed and existing digital asset activities.
Although the Federal Reserve Board, the effect of this reserve requirement is to reduce the Bank’s interest-earning assets. The Bank is authorized to borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank discount window.
Internet Banking
Technological developments continue to significantly alter the ways in which financial institutions and their customers conduct their business. The growth of the Internet has caused banks to adopt and refine alternative distribution and marketing systems. The federal bank regulatorybanking agencies have targeted various aspectsnot developed formal regulations governing the digital asset activities of internet banking includingorganizations, the securitysupervisory framework summarized above dictates that, in order to effectively identify and systems. There can be no assurance that the bank regulatory agencies will adopt new regulations that will not materially affect the Bank’s Internet operations or restrict any such further operations.


The USA PATRIOT Act
The USA PATRIOT Act gives the federal government powers to address terrorist threats through enhanced domestic security measures, expanded surveillance powers, increased information sharing,manage digital asset-related risks and broadened anti-money laundering requirements. By way of amendmentsobtain supervisory non-objection to the Bank Secrecy Act, Title III of the USA PATRIOT Act included measures intendedproposed engagement in digital asset activities, banking organizations must implement appropriate risk management practices, including with respect to encourage information sharing among bank regulatory agenciesboard and law enforcement bodies. Further, certain provisions of Title III imposed affirmative obligations on a broad range of financial institutions, including banks, thrifts, brokers, dealers, credit unions, money transfer agents and parties registered under the Commodity Exchange Act.
The bank regulatory agencies have increased the regulatory scrutiny of the Bank Secrecy Act and anti-money laundering programs maintained by financial institutions. Significant penalties and fines, as well as other supervisory orders may be imposed on a financial institution for non-compliance with these requirements. In addition, the federal bank regulatory agencies must consider the effectiveness of financial institutions engaging in a merger transaction in combating money laundering activities. The Bank has adoptedmanagement oversight, policies and procedures, which are in compliance with these requirements.risk assessments, internal controls and monitoring.
Holding Company Regulation
Federal Regulation.The Company is regulated as a bank holding company, and as such, is subject to examination, regulation and periodic reporting under the Bank Holding Company Act,BHCA, as administered by the Federal Reserve Board.
The Federal Reserve Board has adopted capital adequacy guidelines for bank holding companies on a consolidated basis. The Dodd-Frank Act directed the Federal Reserve Board to issue consolidated capital requirements for depository institution holding companies that are not less stringent, both quantitatively and in terms of components of capital, than those applicable to institutions themselves. The previously discussed final rule regarding regulatory capital requirements implemented the Dodd-Frank Act as to bank holding company capital standards. Consolidated regulatory capital requirements identical to those applicable to the subsidiary banks applied to bank holding companies (with greater than $1 billion of assets) as of January 1, 2015. As isThe rule limits a banking organization’s capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments if the casebanking organization does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” of 2.5% in addition to the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements.
In the first quarter of 2020, U.S. federal regulatory authorities issued an interim final rule providing banking institutions that adopt CECL during the 2020 calendar year with institutions themselves,the option to delay for two years the estimated impact of CECL on regulatory capital, followed by a three-year transition period to phase out the aggregate amount of the capital conservation buffer was effectivebenefit provided during the initial two-year delay (i.e., a five-year transition in total). In connection with its adoption of CECL on January 1, 2016, and will increase each year until fully implemented on January 1, 2019. As of December 31, 2017,2020, the Company’s regulatory capital ratios exceed these minimum capital requirements.Company elected to utilize the five-year CECL transition.
The following table shows the Company’s Tier 1 leverage capital ratio, common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio and the total risk-based capital ratio as of December 31, 2017.2023.
 As of December 31, 2023
 Capital
Percent of
Assets(1)
Capital
Requirements (1)
Capital
Requirements with Capital Conservation Buffer (1)
 (Dollars in thousands)
Tier 1 leverage capital$1,396,512 10.22 %4.00 %4.00 %
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital1,383,625 11.45 4.50 7.00 
Tier 1 risk-based capital1,396,512 11.56 6.00 8.50 
Total risk-based capital1,496,545 12.39 8.00 10.50 
 As of December 31, 2017
 Capital 
Percent  of
Assets(1)
 
Capital
Requirements (1)
 
Capital
Requirements with Capital Conservation Buffer (1)
 (Dollars in thousands)
Tier 1 leverage capital$887,924
 9.65% 4.00% 4.00%
Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based capital887,924
 11.87
 4.50
 5.75
Tier 1 risk-based capital887,924
 11.87
 6.00
 7.25
Total risk-based capital948,119
 12.67
 8.00
 9.25
(1) For purposes of calculating regulatory Tier 1 leverage capital, assets are based on adjusted total leverage assets. In calculating common equity Tier 1 capital, Tier 1 risk-based capital and total risk-based capital, assets are based on total risk-weighted assets.
(1)For purposes of calculating regulatory Tier 1 leverage capital, assets are based on adjusted total leverage assets. In calculating common equity Tier 1 capital, Tier 1 risk-based capital and total risk-based capital, assets are based on total risk-weighted assets.
As of December 31, 2017,2023, the Company was “well capitalized” under Federal Reserve Board guidelines.
Regulations of the Federal Reserve Board provide that a bank holding company must serve as a source of strength to any of its subsidiary banks and must not conduct its activities in an unsafe or unsound manner. Federal Reserve Board policies generally provide that bank holding companies should pay dividends only out of current earnings and only if the prospective rate of earnings retention in the holding company appears consistent with the organization’s capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition. Federal Reserve Board guidance sets forth the supervisory expectation that bank holding companies will inform and consult with Federal Reserve Board staff in advance of issuing a dividend that exceeds earnings for the quarter,
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and should inform the Federal Reserve Board and should eliminate, defer or significantly reduce dividends if: (i) net income available to stockholders for the past four quarters, net of dividends previously paid during that period, is not sufficient to fully fund the dividends; (ii) prospective rate of earnings retention is not consistent with the bank holding company’s capital needs and overall current and prospective financial condition; or (iii) the bank holding company will not meet, or is in danger of not meeting, its minimum


regulatory capital adequacy ratios. Under the prompt corrective action provisions discussed above, a bank holding company parent of an undercapitalized subsidiary bank would be directed to guarantee, within limitations, the capital restoration plan that is required of such an undercapitalized bank. If the undercapitalized bank fails to file an acceptable capital restoration plan or fails to implement an accepted plan, the Federal Reserve Board may prohibit the bank holding company parent of the undercapitalized bank from paying any dividends or making any other form of capital distribution without the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board.
As a bank holding company, the Company is required to obtain the prior approval of the Federal Reserve Board to acquire all, or substantially all, of the assets of any bank or bank holding company. Prior Federal Reserve Board approval will be required for the Company to acquire direct or indirect ownership or control of any voting securities of any bank or bank holding company if, after giving effect to such acquisition, it would, directly or indirectly, own or control more than 5% of any class of voting shares of such bank or bank holding company.
AFederal Reserve Board regulations require a bank holding company is required to give the Federal Reserve Board prior written notice of any purchase or redemption of its outstanding equity securities if the gross consideration for the purchase or redemption, when combined with the net consideration paid for all such purchases or redemptions during the preceding 12 months will be equal to 10% or more of the company’s consolidated net worth. The Federal Reserve Board may disapprove such a purchase or redemption if it determines that the proposal would constitute an unsafe and unsound practice, or would violate any law, regulation, Federal Reserve Board order or directive, or any condition imposed by, or written agreement with, the Federal Reserve Board. SuchThe regulations provide that such notice and approval is not required for a bank holding company that would be treated as “well capitalized” under applicable regulations of the Federal Reserve Board, is well-managed, and that is not the subject of any unresolved supervisory issues. Notwithstanding the aforementioned regulations, Federal Reserve Board guidance indicates that bank holding companies should inform Federal Reserve staff of certain proposed repurchases of common stock, sufficiently in advance to allow for supervisory review and possible objection.
In addition, a bank holding company which does not opt to become a financial holding company under applicable federal law is generally prohibited from engaging in, or acquiring direct or indirect control of any company engaged in non-banking activities. One of the principal exceptions to this prohibition is for activities found by the Federal Reserve Board to be so closely related to banking or managing or controlling banks as to be permissible. Some of the principal activities that the Federal Reserve Board has determined by regulation to be so closely related to banking as to be permissible are:
makingMaking or servicing loans;
performingPerforming certain data processing services;
providingProviding discount brokerage services, or acting as fiduciary, investment or financial advisor;
leasingLeasing personal or real property;
makingMaking investments in corporations or projects designed primarily to promote community welfare; and
acquiringAcquiring a savings and loan association.
Bank holding companies that qualify and opt to become a financial holding company may engage in activities that are financial in nature or incident to activities which are financial in nature. Financial holding companies may engage in a broader array of activities including insurance and investment banking.
Bank holding companies may qualify to become a financial holding company if at the time of the election and on a continuing basis:
eachEach of its depository institution subsidiaries is “well capitalized”;
eachEach of its depository institution subsidiaries is “well managed”; and
eachEach of its depository institution subsidiaries has at least a “Satisfactory” Community Reinvestment Act rating at its most recent examination.
The Company filed an election to qualify as a financial holding company under federal regulations on January 31, 2014 which was deemed effective by the Federal Reserve Board on March 5, 2015.
Under federal law, depository institutions are liable to the FDIC for losses suffered or anticipated by the FDIC in connection with the default of a commonly controlled depository institution or any assistance provided by the FDIC to such an institution in danger of default. This law would potentially be applicable to the Company if it ever acquired as a separate subsidiary a depository institution in addition to the Bank.
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New Jersey Regulation. Under the New Jersey Banking Act, a company owning or controlling a savings bank is regulated as a bank holding company. The New Jersey Banking Act defines the terms “company” and “bank holding company” as such terms are defined under the BHCA. Each bank holding company controlling a New Jersey chartered bank or savings bank must file certain reports with the Commissioner and is subject to examination by the Commissioner.


Acquisition of Control. Under federal law and under the New Jersey Banking Act, no person may acquire control of the Company or the Bank without first obtaining approval of such acquisition of control from the Federal Reserve Board and the Commissioner.
Effective in September 2020, the Federal Reserve Board adopted a final rule to codify and simplify its interpretations and opinions regarding regulatory presumptions of control for purposes of the BHCA. The amended control rule has had, and will likely continue to have a meaningful impact on control determinations related to investments in banks and bank holding companies and investments by bank holding companies in nonbank companies.
Federal Securities Laws. The Company’s common stock is registered with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company is subject to the information, proxy solicitation, insider trading restrictions and other requirements under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Investment Adviser Regulation
Regulation.Beacon Investment Advisory Services, Inc. is an investment adviser registered with the SEC. As such, it is required to make certain filings with and is subject to periodic examination by the SEC.
Delaware Corporation Law
Corporate Law.The Company is incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware. As a result, the rights of its stockholders are governed by the Delaware General Corporate Law and the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws.
TAXATION
Federal Taxation
General. The Company is subject to federal income taxation in the same general manner as other corporations, with some exceptions discussed below. The following discussion of federal taxation is intended only to summarize certain pertinent federal income tax matters and is not a comprehensive description of the tax rules applicable to the Company.
On December 22, 2017,March 27, 2020 in response to COVID-19 and its detrimental impact to the Tax Cutsglobal economy, President Trump signed the CARES Act into law, which provides stimulus to the US economy in the form of various individual and Jobsbusiness assistance programs as well as temporary changes to existing law. The CARES Act ("Tax Act") was enacted. Included as partof 2020 includes tax provisions that temporarily modified the taxable income limitations for NOL usage to offset future taxable income, NOL carryback provisions and other related income and non-income-based laws. ASC 740 requires the tax effects of changes in tax law or rates to be recorded in the period of enactment. The Corporation has evaluated such provisions and determined that the impact of the law, was a permanent reduction inCARES Act of 2020 on the federal corporate income tax rate from 35%provision and deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2020 was not material.
The Inflation Reduction Act, which was signed into law on August 16, 2022, among other things, implements a new alternative minimum tax of 15% on corporations with profits in excess of $1 billion, a 1% excise tax on stock repurchases, and several tax incentives to 21%promote clean energy and climate initiatives. These provisions are effective beginning January 1, 2018.2023. Based uponon its analysis of the change in the tax rate,provisions, the Company revalued its net deferred tax asset at December 31, 2017 to reflectdoes not expect the reduced rate that will apply in future periods when theses deferred taxes are settled or realized. As a resultprovisions of the enactment of the TaxInflation Reduction Act the Company recognized an additional tax expense of $3.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.
Method of Accounting. For federal income tax purposes, the Company currently reports its income and expenses on the accrual method of accounting and uses a tax year ending December 31 for filing its consolidated federal income tax returns.
Bad Debt Reserves.Prior to the Small Business Protection Act of 1996 (the “1996 Act”), the Bank was permitted to establish a reserve for bad debts and to make annual additions to the reserve. These additions could, within specified formula limits, be deducted in arriving at taxable income. The Bank was required to use the direct charge-off method to compute its bad debt deduction beginning with its 1996 federal income tax return. Savings institutions were required to recapture any excess reserves over those established as of December 31, 1987 (base year reserve).
Taxable Distributions and Recapture. Prior to the 1996 Act, bad debt reserves created prior to January 1, 1988 were subject to recapture into taxable income should the Bank fail to meet certain asset and definitional tests. Federal legislation has eliminated these recapture rules. Retained earnings atas of December 31, 20172023 included approximately $51.8 million for which no provisions for income tax had been made. This amount represents an allocation of income to bad debt deductions for tax purposes only. Events that would result in taxation of these reserves include failure to qualify as a bank for tax purposes,
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distributions in complete or partial liquidation, stock redemptions and excess distributions to shareholders. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank had an unrecognized tax liability of $13.7$14.0 million with respect to this reserve.
Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax. The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), imposesimposed an alternative minimum tax (AMT) at a rate of 20% on a base of regular taxable income plus certain tax preferences (alternative minimum taxable income or AMTI). The AMT iswas payable to the extent such AMTI iswas in excess of an exemption amount and the AMT exceedsexceeded the regular income tax. Net operating losses cancould offset no more than 90% of AMTI. Certain payments of alternative minimum tax maycould be used as credits against regular tax liabilities in future years. The Company haswas not been subject to the alternative minimum tax and has no such amounts available as credits for carryover. The recently enacted Tax Act repealsrepealed the corporate AMT effective for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017.
Net Operating Loss Carryovers. Under the general rule, for tax periods ending December 31, 2017 and prior, a financial institution may carry back net operating losses to the preceding two taxable years and forward to the succeeding 20 taxable years. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2018, the Company had approximately $1.3$1.1 million of Federal Net Operating Losses ("NOLs"). These NOLs were generated by entities the Company acquired in previous years and are subject to an annual Code Section 382 limitation. The Tax Act limits limits the NOL deduction for a given year to 80% of taxable income, effective with respect to losses arising in tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. It also repealsrepealed the


pre-enactment carryback provision for NOLs and provides for the indefinite carryforward of NOLs arrisingarising in tax years ending after December 31, 2017.
Corporate Dividends-Received Deduction. The Company may exclude from its income 100% of dividends received from the Bank as a member of the same affiliated group of corporations.
State Taxation
New Jersey State Taxation. The Company and the Bank file New Jersey Corporation Business Tax returns. Generally, the income of financial institutions in New Jersey, which is calculated based on federal taxable income subject to certain adjustments, is subject to New Jersey tax. The Company and the Bank are currently subject to the corporation business tax at 9% of apportioned taxable income. Certain entities can qualify as a New Jersey investment company which taxes income at 3.6% plus New Jersey surcharge. This election is an annual election and if elected, the entity is not included in the unitary group. As a result of legislation that New Jersey enacted on July 1, 2018 and an extension passed on September 29, 2020, the Company and the Bank are subject to an additional temporary surtax effective for tax years 2018 through 2023, and are required to file combined tax returns beginning 2019.
Prior to the new legislation, New Jersey tax law doesdid not and has not allowed forallow a taxpayer to file a tax return on a combined or consolidated basis with another member of the affiliated group where there is common ownership. However, if the taxpayer cannot demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that theownership for tax filing discloses the true earnings of the taxpayer on its business carried on in the State of New Jersey, the Director of the New Jersey Division of Taxation may, at the director’s discretion, require the taxpayerperiods prior to file a consolidated return of the entire operations of the affiliated group or controlled group, including its own operations and income.December 31, 2018.
Pennsylvania State Taxation.The Bank is subject to Pennsylvania Mutual Thrift Institutions Tax. Mutual thrift institutions tax is imposed at the rate of 11.5% on net taxable income of mutual thrift institutions in Pennsylvania, including savings banks without capital stock, building and loan associations, savings and loan associations, and savings institutions having capital stock.
New York State Taxation. In 2014, New York State enacted significant and comprehensive reforms to its corporate tax system that went into effect January 1, 2015. The new legislation resulted in significant changes to the method of calculating income taxes for banks, including changes to future period tax rates, rules relating to the sourcing of income, and the elimination of the banking corporation tax so that banking corporations will now beare taxed under New York State’s corporate franchise tax. The corporate franchise tax is based on the combined entire net income of the Company and its affiliates allocable and apportionable to New York State and taxed at a rate of 6.5%7.25%. The amount of revenues that are sourced to New York State under the new legislation can be expected to fluctuate over time. In addition, the Company and its affiliates are subject to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (“MTA”) Surcharge allocable to business activities carried on in the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District. The MTA surcharge for 2017 was 28.3%2021 is 30.0% of a recomputed New York State franchise tax, calculated using a 6.5% tax rate on allocated and apportioned entire net income. The Bank is currently under audit with respect to itsexamination of the Company's 2016 and 2015 New York State combined franchise tax return forreturns was completed in the first quarter of 2019, and did not have a material impact on the Company's effective income tax years 2015rate. The examination of the Company's 2017 and 2016.2018 New York State tax returns was completed in the fourth quarter of 2022, and did not have a material impact on the Company's effective tax rate.
Item 1A.Risk Factors.
In the ordinary course of operating our business, we are exposed to a variety of risks inherent to the financial services industry. The following discusses the significant risk factors that could affect our business and operations. If any of the following conditions or events actually occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be negatively
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affected, the market price of your investment in the Company’s common stock could decline, and you could lose all or a part of your investment in the Company’s common stock. The Company's risk factors are categorized as follows:
Risks Related to the Pending Merger with Lakeland
Risks Related to the Economy, Financial Markets, and Interest Rates
Risks Related to Regulatory, Compliance, Environmental and Legal Matters
Risks Related to the Business Environment and Operations.
Risks Related to Technology and Security
Risks Related to the Pending Merger with Lakeland
Receipt of regulatory approvals has taken longer than expected and may not be received in the future, or may impose conditions that are not presently anticipated or that could have an adverse effect on the combined company that results from the merger of the Company and Lakeland.
Before the merger and bank merger may be completed, various approvals, consents and non-objections must be obtained from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve Board”), the FDIC, the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (the “NJDOBI”) and other regulatory authorities in the United States. In determining whether to grant these approvals, such regulatory authorities consider a variety of factors, including the regulatory standing of each company. Receipt of these approvals has taken longer than expected and, as a result, the Company and Lakeland have extended the merger deadline to March 31, 2024 to allow additional time to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals. These approvals could continue to be delayed or not obtained at all, including due to an adverse development in either company’s regulatory standing or in any other factors considered by regulators when granting such approvals; governmental, political or community group inquiries, investigations or opposition; or changes in legislation or the political environment generally.
The approvals that are granted may impose terms and conditions, limitations, obligations or costs, or place restrictions on the conduct of the combined company’s business or require changes to the terms of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement between the Company and Lakeland. There can be no assurance that regulators will not impose any such conditions, limitations, obligations or restrictions and that such conditions, limitations, obligations or restrictions will not have the effect of delaying the completion of any of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, imposing additional material costs on or materially limiting the revenues of the combined company following the merger or otherwise reducing the anticipated benefits of the merger if the merger were consummated successfully within the expected timeframe. In addition, there can be no assurance that any such conditions, terms, obligations or restrictions will not result in the delay or abandonment of the merger. Additionally, the completion of the merger is conditioned on the absence of certain orders, injunctions or decrees by any court or regulatory agency of competent jurisdiction that would prohibit or make illegal the completion of any of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement.
In addition, despite the companies’ commitments to using their reasonable best efforts to comply with conditions imposed by regulators, under the terms of the merger agreement, neither the Company nor Lakeland, nor any of their respective subsidiaries, is permitted (without the written consent of the other party), to take any action, or commit to take any action, or agree to any condition or restriction, in connection with obtaining the required permits, consents, approvals and authorizations of governmental entities that would reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the combined company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, after giving effect to the merger and the bank merger.
The Company will be subject to business uncertainties and contractual restrictions while the merger is pending.
Uncertainty about the effect of the merger on employees and customers may have an adverse effect on the Company. These uncertainties may impair the Company’s ability to attract, retain and motivate key personnel until the merger is completed, and could cause customers and others that deal with the Company to seek to change existing business relationships with the Company. In addition, subject to certain exceptions, the Company has agreed to operate its business in the ordinary course in all material respects and to refrain from taking certain actions that may adversely affect its ability to consummate the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement on a timely basis without the consent of Lakeland. These restrictions may prevent the Company from pursuing attractive business opportunities that may arise prior to the completion of the merger.
The merger agreement may be terminated in accordance with its terms and the merger may not be completed.
The merger agreement is subject to a number of conditions which must be fulfilled in order to complete the merger. Those conditions include, among other things: (i) authorization for listing on the New York Stock Exchange of the shares of the Company’s common stock to be issued in the merger, subject to official notice of issuance; (ii) the receipt of required regulatory approvals, including the approval of the Federal Reserve Board, the FDIC and the NJDOBI, and (iii) the absence of any order, injunction, decree or other legal restraint preventing the completion of the merger, the bank merger or any of the
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other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement or making the completion of the merger, the bank merger or any of the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement illegal. Each party’s obligation to complete the merger is also subject to certain additional customary conditions, including (a) subject to applicable materiality standards, the accuracy of the representations and warranties of the other party; (b) the performance in all material respects by the other party of its obligations under the merger agreement; (c) the receipt by each party of an opinion from its counsel to the effect that the merger will qualify as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and (d) the execution and delivery of the bank merger agreement in respect of the bank merger.
On December 20, 2023, the Company and Lakeland agreed to extend the merger agreement’s termination date to March 31, 2024 to provide additional time to fulfill merger conditions, especially those related to regulatory approvals. Regardless of the extension, these conditions to the closing may not be fulfilled in a timely manner or at all, the parties may not agree to additional extensions, and, accordingly, the merger may not be completed by the updated termination date. In addition, the parties can mutually decide to terminate the merger agreement at any time, even after the requisite stockholder and shareholder approvals. Also, the Company or Lakeland may elect to terminate the merger agreement in certain other circumstances, including by either Lakeland or the Company if the merger has not completed on or before March 31, 2024, unless the failure of the merger to be completed by such date is due to the failure of the party seeking to terminate the merger agreement to perform or observe its obligations, covenants and agreements under the merger agreement.
In connection with the merger, the Company will assume Lakeland’s outstanding debt obligations and may need to issue additional debt in order to comply with capital requirements, and the combined company’s level of indebtedness following the completion of the merger could adversely affect the combined company’s ability to raise additional capital and to meet its obligations under its existing indebtedness.
In connection with the merger, the Company will assume Lakeland’s outstanding indebtedness and may need to issue additional debt in order to raise capital. The Company’s existing debt, together with any future incurrence of additional indebtedness, and the assumption of Lakeland’s outstanding indebtedness, could have important consequences for the combined company’s creditors and the combined company’s stockholders. For example, it could:
limit the combined company’s ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, acquisitions and general corporate or other purposes;
restrict the combined company from making strategic acquisitions or cause the combined company to make non-strategic divestitures;
restrict the combined company from paying dividends to its stockholders;
increase the combined company’s vulnerability to general economic and industry conditions; and
require a substantial portion of cash flow from operations to be dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on the combined company’s indebtedness, thereby reducing the combined company’s ability to use cash flows to fund its operations, capital expenditures and future business opportunities.
The Company has incurred and is expected to incur substantial costs related to the merger and integration.
The Company has incurred and expects to incur a number of non-recurring costs associated with the merger. These costs include legal, financial advisory, accounting, consulting and other advisory fees, retention, severance and employee benefit-related costs, public company filing fees and other regulatory fees, financial printing and other printing costs, and closing, integration and other related costs. Some of these costs are payable by the Company regardless of whether or not the merger is completed.
The Company may have to rely on Lakeland's models post-closing until Lakeland's data can be integrated into the Company's models.
Lakeland depends on models for the allowance for credit losses, among other things, and we may have to rely on Lakeland's models post-closing prior to integrating Lakeland's data into our models. These models may be designed or implemented in a manner different than the models used by the Company. As a result, incorporation of Lakeland's data into our models could materially impact our results of operations or financial position to the extent that our estimates based on Lakeland's models prove to be inaccurate.
Failure to complete the merger could negatively impact the Company.
If the merger is not completed for any reason, there may be various adverse consequences and the Company may experience negative reactions from the financial markets and from its customers and employees. For example, the Company’s business may have been impacted adversely by the failure to pursue other beneficial opportunities due to the focus of management on the merger or the financial impact of complying with requirements imposed by regulatory agencies, without realizing any of the anticipated benefits of completing the merger. Additionally, if the merger agreement is terminated, the market price of the Company’s common stock could decline to the extent that current market prices reflect a market assumption
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that the merger would have been beneficial and should have been completed. The Company also could be subject to litigation related to any failure to complete the merger or to proceedings commenced against the Company to perform its obligations under the merger agreement. If the merger agreement is terminated under certain limited circumstances, the Company may be required to pay a termination fee of $50 million to Lakeland.
Additionally, the Company has incurred and will incur additional substantial expenses in connection with the negotiation and completion of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, compliance with requests or requirements from the regulatory agencies, the preparing, filing, printing and mailing of a joint proxy statement/prospectus in connection with the merger, and all filing and other fees paid in connection with the merger. If the merger is not completed, the Company would have to pay these expenses without realizing the expected benefits of the merger.
Combining the Company and Lakeland may be more difficult, costly or time-consuming than expected, and the Company may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the merger.
The success of the merger will depend, in part, on the ability to realize the anticipated cost savings from combining the businesses of the Company and Lakeland. To realize the anticipated benefits and cost savings from the merger, the Company and Lakeland must successfully integrate and combine their businesses in a manner that permits those cost savings to be realized without adversely affecting current revenues and future growth. If the Company and Lakeland are not able to successfully achieve these objectives, the anticipated benefits of the merger may not be realized fully or at all, or may take longer to realize than expected. In addition, the actual cost savings of the merger could be less than anticipated, and integration may result in additional and unforeseen expenses, including costs related to requests or requirements issued by regulatory agencies.
An inability to realize the full extent of the anticipated benefits of the merger and the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, as well as any delays encountered in the integration process, could have an adverse effect upon the revenues, levels of expenses and operating results of the combined company following the completion of the merger, which may adversely affect the value of the common stock of the combined company following the completion of the merger.
The Company and Lakeland have operated and, until the completion of the merger, must continue to operate, independently. It is possible that the integration process could result in the loss of key employees, the disruption of each company’s ongoing businesses or inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies that adversely affect the companies’ ability to maintain relationships with clients, customers, depositors and employees or to achieve the anticipated benefits and cost savings of the merger. Integration efforts between the companies may also divert management attention and resources. These integration matters could have an adverse effect on the Company during this transition period and for an undetermined period after completion of the merger on the combined company.
Furthermore, the board of directors and executive leadership of the combined company will consist of former directors and executive officers from each of the Company and Lakeland. Combining the boards of directors and management teams of each company into a single board and a single management team could require the reconciliation of differing priorities and philosophies.
As a result of the mergers, the combined company will become subject to additional requirements and restrictions imposed by the DOJ.
On September 28, 2022, Lakeland Bank entered into a consent order with the DOJ to resolve allegations of violations of the Fair Housing Act and Equal Credit Opportunity Act within the Newark, NJ-PA Metro Division, as constituted in 2015 (the “DOJ Consent Order”). The DOJ Consent Order was approved by the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey on September 29, 2022.
The DOJ Consent Order requires Lakeland Bank to, among other things, invest $12 million over five years in a loan subsidy fund to increase credit opportunities to residents of majority-Black and Hispanic census tracts in Essex, Morris, Somerset, Sussex and Union Counties, New Jersey (the “Newark Lending Area”), and devote a minimum of $400,000 over five years toward community development partnership contributions in the Newark Lending Area, and $150,000 per year over five years toward advertising, community outreach, and credit repair and education in the Newark Lending Area. Pursuant to the terms of the consent order, Lakeland Bank will also establish two new full-service branches in majority-Black and Hispanic census tracts: one in Newark, New Jersey and one in the Newark Lending Area. In addition, Lakeland Bank must continue to maintain its full-time Community Development Officer position to oversee these efforts throughout the term of the consent order.
As required by the terms of the DOJ Consent Order, the Bank, as the resulting institution in the bank merger, has agreed to and will assume all obligations under the DOJ Consent Order in connection with the bank merger. Although both the Bank and Lakeland Bank are committed to full compliance with the DOJ Consent Order, achieving such compliance will require significant management attention from Lakeland Bank and, following the mergers, the combined bank and may cause Lakeland
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Bank and, following the mergers, the combined bank to incur unanticipated costs and expenses. Actions taken to achieve compliance with the DOJ Consent Order may affect Lakeland Bank’s and the combined bank’s business or financial performance and may require Lakeland Bank or the combined bank to reallocate resources away from existing businesses or to undertake significant changes to their respective businesses, operations, products and services and risk management practices. In addition, although the DOJ Consent Order resolved all claims by the DOJ against Lakeland Bank, Lakeland and its subsidiaries or, following the mergers, the combined company and its subsidiaries could be subject to other enforcement actions relating to the alleged violations resolved by the DOJ Consent Order.
The combined company's human capital may be affected by inability to retain personnel of the Company and/or Lakeland successfully after the merger is completed.
The success of the merger will depend in part on the combined company’s ability to manage its human capital and retain the talent and dedication of key employees currently employed by the Company and Lakeland. It is possible that these employees may decide not to remain with the Company or Lakeland, as applicable, while the merger is pending or with the combined company after the merger is consummated. If the Company and Lakeland are unable to retain key employees, including management, who are critical to the successful integration and future operations of the companies, the Company and Lakeland could face disruptions in their operations, loss of existing customers, loss of key information, expertise or know-how and unanticipated additional recruitment costs. In addition, following the merger, if key employees terminate their employment, the combined company’s human capital and business activities may be adversely affected, and management’s attention may be diverted from successfully hiring suitable replacements, all of which may cause the combined company’s business to suffer. The Company and Lakeland also may not be able to locate or retain suitable replacements for any key employees who leave either company.
Although previously filed litigation related to the merger against the Company, the Company’s board of directors, the Bank, and the Bank’s board of directors has been settled, additional litigation may be filed against the Company, the Company’s board of directors, the Bank, and the Bank’s board of directors in the future, which could prevent or delay the completion of the merger, result in the payment of damages, or otherwise negatively impact the business and operations of the Company and the Bank.
Although litigation related to the merger was previously filed against the Company, the Company’s board of directors, the Bank, and the Bank’s board of directors and subsequently dismissed or settled, additional litigation may be filed against the Company, the Company’s board of directors, the Bank, and the Bank’s board of directors in the future. The outcome of any litigation is uncertain. One of the conditions to the closing is that there must be no order, injunction, or decree issued by any court or governmental entity of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint preventing the consummation of the merger or any of the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. If any plaintiff were successful in obtaining an injunction prohibiting the Company or the Bank from completing the merger or any of the other transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, then such injunction may delay or prevent the effectiveness of the merger and could result in significant costs to the Company and/or the Bank, including costs associated with the indemnification of directors and officers of each entity. The Company and the Bank may incur costs in connection with the defense or settlement of any stockholder or shareholder lawsuits filed in connection with the merger. Further, such lawsuits and the defense or settlement of any such lawsuits may have an adverse effect on the financial condition and results of operations of the Company and the Bank and could prevent or delay the completion of the merger.
Risks Related to the Economy, Financial Markets, and Interest Rates
Changes into the underlying drivers of our net interest ratesincome could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
Our financial condition and results of operations are significantly affected by changes in market interest rates, and the degree to which these changes disparately impact short-term and long-term interest rates.rates and influence the behavior of our customer base. Our results of operations substantially depend on our net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income we earn on our interest-earninginterest earning assets and the interest expense we pay on our interest-bearing liabilities.
The Federal Reserve Board has maintained interest rates at historically low levels through its targeted federal funds rate and recently shifted its strategy to a measured approach of increasing the targeted federal funds rate. If the Federal Reserve Board’s recent policy action to increase short-term rates does not result in a commensurate increase in long-term rates, we may experience a flattening or An inverted yield curve, that couldwhich has persisted throughout 2023, has and may continue to negatively impact our net interest margin and earnings.
OurAs the Federal Reserve raised and has maintained higher interest rates, our interest-bearing liabilities may continue to be subject to repricing or maturing more quickly than our interest-earning assets. IfPersistent elevated short-term rates increase rapidly, we may havecontinue to require us to increase the rates we pay on our deposits and borrowed funds more quickly than we can increase the interest rates we earn on our loans and investments, resulting in a negative effect on interest spreads and net interest income. In addition, the effect of risinghigh rates couldcontinue to be compounded ifas deposit customers move funds into higher yielding accounts. Inaccounts or are lost to competitors offering higher rates on their deposit products. As the event of a 300 basis point increase inFederal Reserve has maintained steady interest rates whereby rates ramp up evenly over a twelve-month period, and assuming management took no actions to mitigate the effect of such change,since August 2023, we are projecting that our netunable to predict whether current rates will persist or if the Federal Reserve will cut interest income would decrease 3.8% or $11.2 million. Conversely, shouldrates going
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forward. Should market interest rates fall below current levels, our net interest income could also be


negatively affected if competitive pressures keepprevent us from further reducing rates on our deposits, while the yields on our assets decrease through loan prepayments and interest rate adjustments.
Changes in interest rates also affect the value of our interest-earning assets, and in particularparticularly our securities portfolio. Generally, the value of securities fluctuates inversely with changes in interest rates. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, our available for sale debt securities portfolio totaled $1.04$1.69 billion. Unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale are reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. DecreasesTherefore, decreases in the fair value of securities available for sale resulting from increases in interest rates therefore could have a temporaryan adverse effect on our stockholders’ equity.
We are also subject to other financial risksVolatility and uncertainty related to interest rate movements. Changes in interest rates caninflation and the effects of inflation, which may lead to increased costs for businesses and consumers and potentially contribute to poor business and economic conditions generally, may also enhance or contribute to some of the risks discussed herein. For example, higher inflation, or volatility and uncertainty related to inflation, could reduce demand for the Company’s products, adversely affect the average livescreditworthiness of loans and mortgage related securities. Increases in interest rates canthe Company’s borrowers or result in extendinglower values for the average lives ofCompany’s investment securities and other interest-earning assets.
A general economic slowdown or uncertainty that produces either reduced returns or excessive market volatility could adversely impact our loansoverall profitability, including our wealth management fee income and mortgage related securities, thereby reducing the amount of cash flows available to invest in higher-yielding assets. Decreases in interest rates can result in the prepayment or refinancing of loans and loans underlying mortgage related securities, resulting in accelerated cash flows subject to reinvestment at reduced market interest rates and increased premium amortization.
We are subject to liquidity risk.
Liquidity risk is the potential that we will be unable to meet our obligations as they become due or capitalize on growth opportunities as they arise because of an inability to liquidate assets or obtain adequate funding on a timely basis at a reasonable cost. Liquidity is required to fund various obligations, including loan originations and commitments, withdrawals by depositors, repayments of borrowings, operating expenses and capital expenditures. Liquidity is derived primarily from deposit growth and retention; principal and interest payments, sales, maturities, and prepayments of loans and investment securities; net cash provided from operations; and access to other funding sources.
Our access to funding sources in amounts adequate to finance our activities could be impaired by factors specific to us or the financial services industry in general. Factors detrimental to our access to liquidity sources includecapital and liquidity.
A general economic slowdown could affect our core banking business. During 2023, headwinds facing the U.S. economy continued despite improvements relative to 2022, as the Federal Reserve continued tightening monetary policy through a decreaseseries of interest rate hikes through the first half of the year and maintained high levels thereafter. The economy as a whole grew in 2023 and the consensus forecast has the economy maintaining growth and avoiding recession in 2024. Certain sectors of the economy, notably residential housing, have already been impacted by high interest rates, although conditions have improved as interest rates declined slightly in the levellatter half of 2023. Despite improved projections, unforeseen adverse changes in the economy and a possible recession could negatively affect the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans or force us to offer lower interest rates to encourage new borrowing activity.
Uncertainty and market volatility could affect the value of the assets under management in our wealth management business activity due to aresulting in lower fee income. Conditions that produce extended market downturn, lack of competitiveness, or adverse regulatory action against us. Ourvolatility could affect our ability to borrowprovide our clients with an adequate return, thereby impacting our ability to attract new clients or causing existing clients to seek more stable investment opportunities with alternative wealth advisors.
Furthermore, market volatility could also be impaired by factors that are not specificadversely impact our access to us, such as a severe disruption of the financial markets or negative viewscapital and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry.liquidity.
If our allowance for loancredit losses is not sufficient to cover actual loan losses, our earnings could decrease.
We make various assumptions and judgments about the collectability of our loan portfolio, including the creditworthiness of our borrowers and the value of the real estate and other assets serving as collateral for the repayment of many of our loans. In determining the amount of the allowance for loancredit losses, we rely on our loan monitoring program, our loan quality reviews, andour credit risk ratings,rating process, loan portfolio trends, our experience, and our evaluation of economic conditions and our selection of a reasonable and supportable forecast, among other factors. The Company measures projected credit losses over the estimated life of the asset by applying quantitative and qualitative loss factors we derive using a macroeconomic forecast that we deem most likely to occur. If our assumptions prove to be incorrect, or if delinquencies or non-accrual and non-performing loans increase, the allowance for loancredit losses may not be sufficient to cover losses inherent in our loan portfolio, resulting in additions to our allowance. Material additions to the allowance would materially decrease our net income.
Bank In addition, bank regulators periodically review our allowance for loancredit losses and may require us to increase our provision for loancredit losses or recognize further loan charge-offs. In 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board released an updated standard for determining credit losses, which fundamentally changes how financial institutions calculate their allowance reserves. The new standard, which will become effective for reporting periods effective January 1, 2020, will require us to adopt a “Current Expected Credit Loss” model that measures projected credit losses over the estimated life of the asset. This approach is a significant departure from the current accounting standard, which estimates potential credit losses based on losses considered to be probable and reasonably estimable. When adopted, this new standard may increase our allowance for credit losses, which could materially affect our financial condition and future results of operations. The extent of the increase, if any, will ultimately depend upon the nature and characteristics of our loan portfolio at the adoption date, as well as the macroeconomic assumptions and forecasts used at that date. Therefore, the potential financial impact is currently unknown.
Our commercialCommercial real estate, multi-family,commercial and commercialindustrial and construction loans expose us to increased lending risks.risk and earnings volatility.
A significant portion ofWe consider our commercial real estate loans, commercial and industrial loans and construction loans to be higher risk categories in our loan portfolio. These loans are particularly sensitive to economic conditions. As of December 31, 2023, our portfolio consists of commercial real estate loans, including multi-family loans, totaled $6.32 billion, or 58.7% of total loans, our commercial and to a lesser extent,industrial loans totaled $2.44 billion, or 22.7% of portfolio loans, and our construction loans. These loans aretotaled $653.2 million, or 6.1% of total loans.
Commercial real estate loans generally regarded as havinginvolve a higher degree of credit risk of defaultbecause they typically have larger balances and loss than single-family residential mortgageare more affected by adverse conditions in the economy, such as vacancy rates and changes in rental rates. Payments on loans because repayment of these loanssecured by commercial real estate also often dependsdepend on the successful operation of a business orand management of the underlying property.businesses that occupy these properties or the financial stability of tenants occupying the properties. Furthermore, these loans may be affected
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by factors outside the borrower’s control, such as adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy, declining rents, tenant defaults, or changes in government regulation. As of December 31, 2023, our CRE office portfolio totaled $483.1 million dollars, with approximately 16% being loans in New York. In our CRE Multi-family portfolio, we hold loans collateralized by rent stabilized properties that totaled $117.4 million as of December 31, 2023. In the case of commercial and industrial loans, although we strive to maintain high credit standards and limit exposure to any one borrower, the collateral for these loans often consists of accounts receivable, inventory and equipment. This type of collateral typically does not yield substantial recovery in the event we need to foreclose on it and may rapidly deteriorate, disappear, or be misdirected in advance of foreclosure. This adds to the potential that our charge-offs will be volatile, which could significantly negatively affect our earnings in any quarter. In addition, some of our construction loans multi-family loans, commercial mortgage loans and commercial loans have significantly larger average loan balances compared to our single-family residential mortgage loans. Also,may pose higher risk than the levels expected at origination, as projects may stall, interest reserves may be inadequate, absorption may be slower than projected or sales prices or rents may be lower than forecasted. In addition, many of our borrowers of these types of loans have more than one commercial real estate or construction loan outstanding with us. Consequently, anyan adverse development with respect to one loan or one credit relationship canmay expose usthe Company to a significantly greater risk of loss comparedloss.
The failure to an adverse development with respectaddress the federal debt ceiling in a timely manner, downgrades of the U.S. credit rating and uncertain credit and financial market conditions may affect the stability of securities issued or guaranteed by the federal government, which may affect the valuation or liquidity of our investment securities portfolio and increase future borrowing costs.
As a result of uncertain political, credit and financial market conditions, including the potential consequences of the federal government defaulting on its obligations for a period of time due to one single-familyfederal debt ceiling limitations or other unresolved political issues, investments in financial instruments issued or guaranteed by the federal government pose credit default and liquidity risks. Given that future deterioration in the U.S. credit and financial markets is a possibility, no assurance can be made that losses or significant deterioration in the fair value of our U.S. government issued or guaranteed investments will not occur. As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately $259.0 million, $70.8 million and $1.29 billion invested in U.S. Treasury securities, U.S. government agency securities, and residential mortgage loan.mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by government-sponsored enterprises and programs, respectively. Downgrades to the U.S. credit rating could affect the stability of securities issued or guaranteed by the federal government and the valuation or liquidity of our portfolio of such investment securities and could result in our counterparties requiring additional collateral for our borrowings. Further, unless and until U.S. political, credit and financial market conditions have been sufficiently resolved or stabilized, it may increase our future borrowing costs.


Risks Related to Regulatory, Compliance, Environmental and Legal Matters
We operate in a highly regulated environment and may be adversely affected by recent changes in U.S. tax laws.laws and regulations.
We are subject to extensive regulation, supervision and examination by various regulatory authorities, but primarily by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, our chartering authority, and by the FDIC, as insurer of our deposits. As a bank holding company, we are subject to regulation and oversight by the Federal Reserve Board. Such regulation and supervision governs the activities in which a bank and its holding company may engage and is intended primarily for the protection of the insurance fund and depositors. Following the bank failures in early 2023, regulators have increasingly focused on banks’ sources of liquidity, deposit mixes and concentration within certain sectors. These regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the ability to require that we hold additional capital, restrict our operations, modify the classification of our assets, increase our allowance for credit losses, and strengthen the management of risks posed by our reliance on third party vendors. Any change in such regulation and oversight, whether in the form of regulatory policy, regulations, or legislation, could have a material impact on the Company’s operations.
The Tax Cutspotential exists for additional federal or state laws and Jobs Act, which was enactedregulations regarding capital requirements, lending and funding practices and, liquidity standards, and bank regulatory agencies are expected to remain active in December 2017, is likelyresponding to have both positiveconcerns and negative effects on our financial performance. For example, the new legislation will result in a reductiontrends that may be identified in our examinations, which may include the potential for the issuance of formal enforcement orders. Further, actions taken to date, as well as potential actions, may not provide the level of beneficial effects necessary to offset their cost to us. In addition, new laws, regulations, and other regulatory changes could further increase our costs of regulatory compliance and of doing business, and otherwise affect our operations. New laws, regulations, and other regulatory changes, may also significantly affect the markets in which we do business, the markets for and value of our loans and investments, and our ongoing operations, costs and profitability.
As a larger financial institution, we are subject to additional regulation and increased supervision.
The Company's total assets were $14.21 billion as of December 31, 2023. Banks with assets in excess of $10 billion are subject to requirements imposed by the Dodd-Frank Act and its implementing regulations including being subject to the examination authority of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to assess our compliance with federal corporate tax rateconsumer financial laws, the imposition of higher FDIC premiums, reduced debit card interchange fees, and enhanced risk management frameworks, all of which increase operating costs and reduce earnings.
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As we continue to grow in size, we can expect greater regulatory scrutiny and expectations requiring us to invest significant management attention and make additional investments in staff and other resources to comply with applicable regulatory expectations. While we cannot predict what effect any presently contemplated or future changes in the laws or regulations or their interpretations may have on us, these changes could be material.
Bank regulators have signaled further review of regulatory requirements and the potential for changes to laws or regulations governing banks and bank holding companies. Changes resulting from 35% to 21% beginningthese events could include increased regulatory oversight, higher capital requirements or changes in 2018,the way regulatory capital is calculated, and the impositions of additional restrictions through regulatory changes or supervisory or enforcement activities, each of which willcould have a favorablematerial impact on our earnings and capital generation abilities. However, the new legislation also enacted limitations on certain deductions that will have an impact on the banking industry, borrowers and the market for single-family residential real estate. These limitations include (1) a lower limit on the deductibility of mortgage interest on single-family residential mortgage loans, (2) the elimination of interest deductions for certain home equity loans, (3) a limitation on the deductibility of business interest expense, and (4) a limitation on the deductibility of property taxes and state and local income taxes. As a result of the enactment of this legislation, the Company recognized an additional tax expense of $3.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.business.
The recent changes in the tax laws may have an adverse effect on the market for, and the valuation of, residential properties, and on the demand for such loans in the future, and could make it harder for borrowers to make their loan payments. In addition, these recent changes may also have a disproportionate effect on taxpayers in states with high residential home prices and high state and local taxes, like New Jersey. If home ownership becomes less attractive, demand for mortgage loans could decrease. The value of the properties securing loans in our loan portfolio may be adversely impacted as a result of the changing economics of home ownership, which could require an increase in our provision for loan losses, which would reduce our profitability and could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
If bank regulators impose limitationsWe face regulatory scrutiny based on our commercial real estate lending activities, earnings could be adversely affected.lending.
The FDIC, the OCC and the FRB (collectively, the “Agencies”) have issued joint guidance entitled “Concentrations in Commercial Real Estate Lending, Sound Risk Management Practices” (the “CRE Guidance”). Although the CRE Guidance diddoes not establish specific lending limits, it provides that a bank’s commercial real estate lending exposure may receive increased supervisory scrutiny where total non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans, including loans secured by apartmentmulti-family buildings, investor commercial real estate and construction and land loans (“CRE Loans”), represent 300% or more of an institution’s total risk-based capital and the outstanding balance of the CRE Loan portfolio has increased by 50% or more during the preceding 36 months. While ourOur level of CRE Loans equaled 453%489.6% of total risk-based capital atas of December 31, 2017,2023, while our CRE Loan portfolio has not increased by 50% or more30.4% during the preceding 36 months. Based on the size of our CRE Loan portfolio as a percentage of capital, regulatory oversight of our management of this CRE concentration is elevated.
In December 2015, the Agencies released a new statement on prudent risk management for commercial real estate lending (the “2015 Statement”). In the 2015 Statement, the Agencies express concerns about easing commercial real estate underwriting standards, direct financial institutions to maintain underwriting discipline and exercise risk management practices to identify, measure and monitor lending risks, and indicate that the Agencies will continue “to pay special attention” to commercial real estate lending activities and concentrations going forward. If our regulators were to impose restrictions on the amount of commercial real estate loans we can hold in our loan portfolio, or require higher capital ratios as a result of the level of commercial real estate loans held, our earnings or our ability to engage in certain merger and acquisition activity could be adversely affected.
On December 18, 2023, the FDIC issued an advisory entitled “Managing Commercial Real Estate Concentrations in a Challenging Economic Environment” (the “2023 Advisory”), replacing an advisory issued in 2008 and updating previously issued guidance. The 2023 Advisory expresses concerns regarding challenges in the CRE market and identifies key risk-management actions to help institutions with market conditions, including maintaining strong capital levels, ensuring appropriate credit loss allowances, closely managing loan portfolios, maintaining updated financial and analytical information, bolstering loan workout infrastructure, and maintaining adequate liquidity and diverse funding sources. The FDIC stated that it will “expect each board of directors and management team to strive for strong capital and appropriate allowance for credit loss levels, and to implement robust credit risk-management practices.” If the FDIC were to scrutinize our board and management actions and require certain capital levels or specific practices, our earnings could be adversely affected and our cost of compliance could increase.
Future acquisitions may be delayed, impeded, or prohibited due to regulatory issues.
Future acquisitions by the Company, particularly those of financial institutions, are subject to approval by a variety of federal and state regulatory agencies (collectively, "regulatory approvals"). Regulatory approvals could be delayed, impeded, restrictively conditioned or denied due to existing or new issues the Company has, or may have, with regulatory agencies, including, without limitation, issues related to BSA/AML compliance, CRA compliance, fair lending laws, fair housing laws, consumer protection laws, unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts or practices regulations, and other similar laws and regulations. We may fail to pursue or complete strategic and competitively significant acquisition opportunities as a result of our inability, or perceived or anticipated inability, to obtain regulatory approvals in a timely manner, under reasonable conditions or at all. The regulatory approvals may contain conditions on the completion of a merger which would adversely affect our business following the closing, or which were not anticipated or cannot be met. Difficulties associated with potential acquisitions that may result from these factors could have a material adverse impact on our business, and, in turn, our financial condition and results of operations.
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We may experience impairments of goodwill or other intangible assets in the future.

As of December 31, 2023, our consolidated balance sheet included goodwill of $443.6 million and other intangible assets of $16.5 million. Our business acquisitions typically result in goodwill and other intangible assets, which affect the amount of future amortization expense and potential impairment expense. We make estimates and assumptions in valuing such intangible assets that affect our consolidated financial statements. In accordance with GAAP, our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset might be impaired. Impairment testing incorporates the current market price of our common stock, the estimated fair value of our assets and liabilities, and certain information of similar companies. Impairment testing may be based on valuation models that estimate fair value. In preparing the valuation models, we consider a number of factors, including operating results, business plans, economic conditions, future cash flows, and transactions and market data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and our judgment in applying them to the impairment analyses. It is possible that future impairment testing could result in the identification of a decline in the fair value of our goodwill or other intangible assets, which may be less than the carrying value. If we determine that impairment exists at a given point in time, our earnings and the book value of goodwill or other related intangible asset will be reduced by the amount of the impairment. If we record an impairment loss related to our goodwill or other intangible assets, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and the trading price of our securities. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the results of impairment testing on our goodwill or other intangible assets have no impact on our tangible book value or regulatory capital levels.
Climate change and related governmental action may materially affect the Company’s business and results of operations.

The effects of climate change continue to create a level of concern for the state of the global environment. As a result, the global community has increased its political and social awareness surrounding the issue and have entered into international agreements in an effort to reduce global temperatures such as the Paris Agreement, which the United States re-joined as of February 19, 2021. Further, the U.S. Congress, state legislatures and federal and state regulatory agencies continue to propose numerous initiatives, legislation, and regulations to supplement the global effort to combat climate change. Similar and even more expansive initiatives are expected, including potentially increasing supervisory expectations with respect to banks’ risk management practices, accounting for the effects of climate change in stress testing scenarios and systemic risk assessments, revising expectations for credit portfolio concentrations based on climate-related factors, and encouraging investment by banks in climate-related initiatives and lending to communities disproportionately impacted by the effects of climate change. For instance, the SEC is expected to issue a final rule in 2024 requiring public companies to disclose the amount of greenhouse gases they generate and how climate change is expected to affect business. The lack of empirical data surrounding the credit and other financial risks posed by climate change render it impossible to predict specifically how climate change may impact the financial condition and operations of the Company; however, the physical effects of climate change may also directly impact the Company. Specifically, unpredictable and more frequent weather disasters may adversely impact the value of real property securing certain loans in our portfolios. Further, the effects of climate change may negatively impact regional and local economic activity, which could lead to an adverse effect on our customers and impact our ability to raise and invest capital in potentially impacted communities. The effects of changing strategies, policies, and investments as the global community transitions to a lower-carbon economy will impose additional operational and compliance burdens, and may result in market trends that alter business opportunities. Compliance with expected disclosure rules will require additional resources. Overall, climate change, its effects, and the resulting unknown impact could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to Business Environment and Operations.
Our continuing concentration of loansbusiness in our primary market areaa relatively confined region may increase our risk.risk.
Our success is significantly affected by general economic conditions in northern and central New Jersey, and eastern Pennsylvania.our market area. Unlike some larger banks that are more geographically diversified, we provide banking, financial, and financialwealth management services to customers mostly located in our primary markets. Consequently, a downturn in economic conditions in our local markets would have a significant impact on our loan portfolios, the ability of borrowers to meet their loan payment obligations and the value of the collateral securing our loans. Adverse local economic conditions caused by inflation, recession, unemployment, state or local government action, or other factors beyond our control would impact these local economic conditions and could negatively affect the financial results of our banking operations. Additionally, because we have a significant amountbusiness.
Acts of real estate loans, depressed real estate valuesterrorism, severe weather, natural disasters, public health issues, geopolitical and real estate salesother external events could also have a negative effect onimpact our ability to conduct business.
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Our business is subject to risk from external events that could affect the stability of our deposit base, impair the ability of manyborrowers to repay outstanding loans, impair the value of collateral securing loans, cause significant property damage, result in loss of revenue, and/or cause us to incur additional expenses. For example, financial institutions have been, and continue to be, targets of terrorist threats aimed at compromising their operating and communication systems. The metropolitan New York and Philadelphia areas remain central targets for potential acts of terrorism, including cyber terrorism, which could affect not only our operations but those of our customers. Additionally, there could be sudden increases in customer transaction volume, electrical, telecommunications or other major physical infrastructure outages, natural disasters, events arising from local or larger scale geopolitical, political or social matters, including terrorist acts, and cyber-attacks from both private and state actors. The emergence of widespread health emergencies or pandemics, similar to the spread of COVID-19, could lead to regional quarantines, business shutdowns, labor shortages, disruptions to supply chains, and overall economic instability. Events such as these may become more common in the future and could cause significant damage such as disruption of power and communication services, impact the stability of our facilities and result in additional expenses, impair the ability of our borrowers to make timely repayments ofrepay their loans, which would have an adverse impact onreduce the value of collateral securing the repayment of our earnings and overall financial condition.
We target our business development and marketing strategy for loans, to serve primarily the banking and financial services needs of small- to medium-sized businesses in northern and central New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. These businesses generally have fewer financial resources in terms of capital or borrowing capacity than larger entities. If general economic conditions negatively impact these businesses, our results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.
Risks associated with cyber-security could negatively affect our earnings.
The financial services industry continues to experience increasing numbers of severe cyber-attacks aimed at gaining unauthorized access to systems and data, or obstructing access to bank systems as a way to misappropriate assets and sensitive information, corrupt and destroy data, or cause operational disruptions.
We have established policies, processes, and tools to limit the impact of cyber-attacks, but such events may still occur or may not be adequately addressed if they do occur. Although we rely on security safeguards to secure our data, these safeguards may not fully protect our systems from compromises or breaches.


We also rely on the integrity and security of a variety of third party processors, payment clearing and settlement systems, as well as the various participants involved in these systems, many of which have no direct relationship with us. Failure by these participants or their systems to protect our customers’ transaction data and maintain operational resiliency may put us at risk for possible losses due to fraud or operational disruption.
Our customers are also the target of cyber-attacks and identity theft. Large scale identity theft could result in customers' accounts being compromisedthe loss of revenue. While we have established and fraudulent activities being performed in their name. We have implemented safeguards against these types of activities but they may not fully protect us from fraudulent financial losses.
Theregularly test disaster recovery procedures, the occurrence of a breach of security involving our customers' information, regardless of its origin, could damage our reputation and result in a loss of customers and business, and subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny, and could expose us to litigation and possible financial liability. Any of these eventsany such event could have a material adverse effect on our business, operations and financial condition. Additionally, financial markets may be adversely affected by any current or anticipated impact of military conflict, including continuing war between Russia and Ukraine, conflicts and military tension in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, terrorism, cyber-attacks from nation states and non-state actors on financial institutions or other geopolitical events.
We may not be able to detect money laundering and other illegal or improper activities fully or on a timely basis, which could expose us to additional liability and could have a material adverse effect on us.
We are required to comply with anti-money laundering, anti-terrorism and other laws and regulations in the United States. These laws and regulations require us, among other things, to adopt and enforce “know-your-customer” policies and procedures and to report suspicious and large transactions to applicable regulatory authorities. These laws and regulations have become increasingly complex and detailed, require improved systems and sophisticated monitoring and compliance personnel and have become the subject of enhanced government supervision.
While we have adopted policies and procedures aimed at detecting and preventing the use of our banking network for money laundering and related activities, those policies and procedures may not completely eliminate instances in which we may be used by customers to engage in money laundering and other illegal or improper activities. To the extent we fail to fully comply with applicable laws and regulations, the FDIC, along with other banking agencies, has the authority to impose fines and other penalties and sanctions on us, including restricting our ability to grow through acquisition. In addition, our business and reputation could suffer if customers use our banking network for money laundering or illegal or improper purposes.
Our funding sources may prove insufficient or costly to support our future growth. A lack of liquidity could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations and result in regulatory limits being placed on the Company.
We must maintain sufficient funds to respond to the needs of depositors and borrowers. Deposits have traditionally been our primary source of funding for our lending and investment activities. We also receive funds from loan repayments, investment maturities and income on other interest-earning assets. While we emphasize the generation of low-cost core deposits as a source of funding, there is strong competition for such deposits in our market area. Additionally, deposit balances can decrease if customers perceive alternative investments as providing a better risk/return tradeoff. Further, the demand for deposits may be reduced due to a variety of factors such as negative trends in the banking sector, the level of and/or composition of our uninsured deposits, demographic patterns, changes in customer preferences, reductions in consumers' disposable income, the monetary policy of the Federal Reserve or regulatory actions that decrease customer access to particular products. Accordingly, as a part of our liquidity management, we must use several funding sources in addition to deposits and repayments and maturities of loans and investments. As we continue to grow, we may become more dependent on these sources, which may include Federal Home Loan Bank of New York and Federal Reserve Bank advances, federal funds purchased and brokered certificates of deposit. Adverse operating results or changes in industry conditions could lead to difficulty or an inability to access these additional funding sources.

Our financial flexibility will be severely constrained if we are unable to maintain our access to funding or if adequate financing is not available to accommodate future growth at acceptable costs. Further, if we are required to rely more heavily on more expensive funding sources to support liquidity and future growth, our revenues may not increase proportionately to cover our increased costs. Our net interest margin and profitability would also be adversely affected. Alternatively, we may need to sell a portion of our investment and/or loan portfolio to raise funds, which, depending upon market conditions, could result in us realizing a loss on the sale of such assets.

Any decline in available funding could adversely impact our ability to originate loans, invest in securities, pay our expenses, or fulfill obligations such as repaying our borrowings or meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could
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have a material adverse impact on our liquidity, business, financial condition and results of operations.
We operateA lack of liquidity could also result in a highly regulated environmentincreased regulatory scrutiny and may be adversely affected by changes in laws and regulations.
We are subject to extensive regulation, supervision and examination by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, our chartering authority, and by the FDIC, as insurer of our deposits. As a bank holding company, we are subject to regulation and oversight by the Federal Reserve Board. Such regulation and supervision govern the activities in which a bank and its holding company may engage and are intended primarily for the protection of the insurance fund and depositors. These regulatory authorities have extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the requirement for additional capital, the imposition ofpotential restrictions on our operations, the classification of our assets, the adequacy of our allowance for loan losses, and our management of risks posed by our reliance on third party vendors. Any change in such regulation and oversight, whether in the form of regulatory policy, regulations, or legislation, could have a material impact on our operations.
The potential exists for additional Federal or state laws and regulations regarding capital requirements, lending and funding practices and liquidity standards, and bank regulatory agencies are expected to remain active in responding to concerns and trends identified in examinations, including the potential issuance of formal enforcement orders. Actions taken to date, as well as potential actions, may not have the beneficial effects that are intended. In addition, new laws, regulations, and other regulatory changes could increase our costs of regulatory compliance and of doing business, and otherwise affect our operations. New laws, regulations, and other regulatory changes, may significantly affect the markets in which we do business, the markets for and value of our loans and investments, and our ongoing operations, costs and profitability.
We will be subject to heightened regulatory requirements when we exceed total assets of $10 billion.
Provident's total assets were $9.85 billion at December 31, 2017. Banks with assets in excess of $10 billion are subject to requirements imposed by the Dodd-Frank Act and its implementing regulations including the examination authority of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to assess our compliance with federal consumer financial laws, imposition of higher FDIC premiums, reduced debit card interchange fees, enhanced risk management frameworks and stress testing, all of which increase operating costs and reduce earnings.
As we approach $10 billion in assets, we are incurring additional costs to prepare for the implementation of these imposed requirements. We may be required to invest more significant management attention and resources to evaluate and continue to make any changes necessary to comply with new statutory and regulatory requirements under the Dodd-Frank Act. Further, federal financial regulators may require us to accelerate our actions and investments to prepare for compliance before we exceed $10 billion in total consolidated assets, and may suspend or delay certain regulatory actions, such as approving a merger agreement, if they deem our preparations to be inadequate. Upon reaching this threshold, we face the risk that we may fail to meet these requirements, which may negatively impact our results of operations and financial condition. While we cannot predict what effect any presently contemplated or future changes in the laws or regulations or their interpretations would have on us these changes could be materially adverse to our investors.by regulators.
A general economic slowdown or uncertainty that produces either reduced returns or excessive market volatility could adversely impact our wealth management fee income.
A general economic slowdown could affect the value of the assets under management in our wealth management business resulting in lower fee income. Furthermore, conditions that produce extended market volatility could affect our ability to provide our clients with an adequate return, thereby impacting our ability to attract new clients or causing existing clients to seek more stable investment opportunities with alternative wealth advisors.
Strong competition within our market area may limit our growth and profitability.
Competition in the banking and financial services industry is intense and expandingincreasing with entrants into our market providing new and innovative technology-driven financial solutions. Our profitability depends upon our continued ability to successfully compete in our market area. We compete with commercial banks, savings institutions, mortgage banking firms, credit unions, finance companies, investment advisers, wealth managers, mutual funds, insurance companies, online lenders, large non-bank participants, and brokerage and investment banking firms operating both locally and elsewhere.


In particular, overOver the past decade, our local markets have experienced the effects of substantial banking consolidation, and large out-of-state competitors have grown significantly. Many of these competitors have substantially greater resources and lending limits than we do, and may offer certain deposit and loan pricing, services or credit criteria that we do not or cannot provide. There are also a number of strong, locally-based competitors with large capital positions in our market who may deploy aggressive strategies to drive growth, takeacquire our customers and win market share.
Furthermore, key components of the financial services value chain have been replicated by digital innovation, commonly referredinnovation. As customer preferences and expectations continue to evolve, technology has lowered barriers to entry and made it possible for non-banks to offer products and services traditionally provided by banks, such as Fintech.automatic transfer and automatic payment systems. In addition, some of the largest technology firms are engaging in joint ventures with the largest banks to provide and or expand financial service offerings with a technological sophistication and breadth of marketing that smaller institutions do not have. Many of our competitors have fewer regulatory constraints and may have lower cost structures. Additionally, due to their size, many competitors may be able to achieve economies of scale and, as a result, may offer a broader range of products and services as well as better pricing for those products and services than we can. The adoption of these Fintech solutions within our market area may cause greater and faster disruption to our business model if we are unable to keep pace with, or invest wisely in, these enabling technologies.
BecauseThe Company’s models used for business planning purposes could perform poorly or provide inadequate information.
We use quantitative models to assist in measuring risks and estimating or predicting certain financial values, among other uses. These models are used throughout many of our business lines, and we rely on them, along with our business judgment, for many decision-making processes.
Models generally evaluate the performance of various factors under anticipated future conditions, relying on historical data to help build the model and in part on assumptions as to the future, often with respect to macro-economic conditions, in order to generate the output. The models used may not accurately account for all variables and may fail to predict outcomes accurately and/or may overstate or understate certain effects. Poorly designed, implemented, or managed models or misused models, including in the choice of relevant historical data or future-looking assumptions, present the risk that our business decisions that consider information based on such models will be adversely affected due to inadequate or inaccurate information, which may damage the Company’s reputation and adversely affect its reported financial condition and results of operations. We rely on historical data to help build models. We seek to incorporate appropriate historical data in our models, but the range of market values and behaviors reflected in any period of historical data we incorporate into our models may turn out to be inappropriate for the future period being modeled. In such case, our ability to manage risk would be limited and our risk exposure and losses could be significantly greater than our models indicated. Even if the underlying assumptions used in our models are adequate, the models may be deficient due to errors in computer code, use of bad data during development or input into the model during model use, or the use of a model for a purpose outside the scope of the model’s design. As a result, our models may not fully capture or express the risks the Company faces. If the models fail to produce reliable results on an ongoing basis, we may not make appropriate risk management, capital planning, or other business or financial decisions. Furthermore, strategies that we employ to manage and govern the risks associated with its use of models may not be effective or fully reliable, and as a result, the Company may realize losses or other lapses.
Finally, information we provide to our regulators based on poorly designed or implemented models could also be inaccurate or misleading. Some of the decisions that our regulators make, including those related to capital distributions to our stockholders, could be adversely affected due to their perception that the quality of the models used to generate the relevant information is insufficient.
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Risks Related to Technology and Security
A cyber-attack, data breach, or a technology failure of ours could adversely affect our ability to conduct our business or manage our exposure to risk, result in the disclosure or misuse of confidential or proprietary information, increase our costs to maintain and update our operational and security systems and infrastructure, and adversely impact our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition, as well as cause reputational harm.
Our business is highly dependent on the security and efficacy of our infrastructure, computer and data management systems to provide secure processing, transmission, storage and retrieval of confidential and proprietary information.
Cyber security risks for financial institutions have significantly increased in recent years in part because of the proliferation of new technologies, the use of technologies to conduct financial transactions, and coordinated efforts by nation-states to use cyber-attacks to obtain information or disrupt financial institutions in rival states. Financial institutions have been subject to, and are likely to continue to be the target of, cyber-attacks and supply chain attacks which could materially disrupt network access or business operations or create regulatory compliance risks.
We have experienced cyber security events in the past, although not material, and we anticipate that, as a larger bank, we could experience further events. We have implemented and are continuing to develop countermeasures against potential cyber-attacks, including through internal cybersecurity policies, restrictions on information sharing, attribution techniques (including research and development on forensic capabilities, digital forensics provided by a security operations center, and obtaining threat intelligence), developing cyber deterrence and security norms, and spreading education and awareness to employees, customers, and third parties. Nevertheless, there can be no assurance that we will not suffer material losses or other material adverse consequences relating to technology failure, cyber-attacks or other information or security breaches.
In addition, there have been instances where financial institutions have been victims of fraudulent activity in which criminals pose as customers to initiate wire and automated clearinghouse transactions from customer accounts. Although we have policies and procedures in place to verify the authenticity of our customers, there can be no assurance that such policies and procedures will prevent all fraudulent transfers. Such activity could result in financial liability and harm to our reputation.
Misuse of our technology by our employees could also result in fraudulent, improper or unauthorized activities on behalf of customers or improper use of confidential information. We may not be able to prevent employee errors or misconduct, and the precautions we take to detect these types of activity might not be effective in all cases. Employee errors or misconduct could subject us to civil claims for negligence or regulatory enforcement actions, including fines and restrictions on our business.
As cyber threats and other fraudulent activity continues to evolve, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify and enhance our protective measures, or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities or incidents. Any of these matters could result in our loss of customers and business opportunities, significant disruption to our operations and business, misappropriation or destruction of our confidential information and/or that of our customers, or damage to our customers’ computers or systems, and could result in a violation of applicable privacy laws and other laws, litigation exposure, regulatory fines, penalties or intervention, loss of confidence in our security measures, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensatory costs, and additional compliance costs. In addition, any of the matters described above could adversely impact our results of operations and financial condition.
For information on our cybersecurity risk management, strategy and governance, see Item 1C – Cybersecurity.
We rely on third-party providers and other suppliers for a number of services that are important to our business. A breach, failure, interruption, cessation of an important service by any third-party could have a material adverse effect on our business, involvesas well as cause reputational harm.
We are dependent for most of our technology, including our core operating system, on third-party providers. The Bank collects, processes and stores sensitive consumer data by utilizing computer systems and telecommunications networks operated by third-party service providers, which are integral to our business. We handle a highsubstantial volume of customer and other financial transactions we face significant operational risks.every day. Our financial, accounting, data processing, check processing, electronic funds transfer, loan processing, online and mobile banking, automated teller machines, or ATMs, backup or other operating or security systems and infrastructure may fail to operate properly or become disabled or damaged because of a number of factors including events that are wholly or partially beyond our control.
We operate in diverse market segments and rely on the ability of our employees,have taken measures to implement backup systems and third party providers, who are used extensively inother safeguards to support of our operations, but our ability to process a high numberconduct business may be adversely affected by any significant disruptions to third-parties with whom we interact. In addition, our ability to implement backup systems and other safeguards with respect to third-party systems is more limited than with our own systems. If these third-parties were to discontinue providing services to us, we may experience significant disruption to
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our business. In addition, each of transactions. Operational risk isthese third-parties faces the risk of cyber-attack, information breach or loss, or technology failure. If any of our third-party service providers experience such difficulties, or if there is any other disruption in our relationships with them, we may be required to find alternative sources of such services. If any of our third-party service providers experience a breach or cyber-attack of their information systems, it could adversely affect our ability to process transactions, service our clients or manage our exposure to risk and could result in the disclosure of sensitive, personal customer information, which could have a material adverse impact on our business through damage to our reputation, loss of business, remedial costs, additional regulatory scrutiny or exposure to civil litigation and possible financial liability. Assurance cannot be provided that we could negotiate terms with alternative service sources that are as favorable or could obtain services with similar functionality as found in existing systems without the need to expend substantial resources, if at all, thereby resulting fromin a material adverse impact on our business and results of operations.
We continuously update these systems to support our operations including but not limited to, theand growth. This updating entails significant costs and creates risks associated with implementing new systems and integrating them with existing ones. Operational risk exposures could adversely impact our results of fraud by employees or persons outside our company, the execution of unauthorized transactions by employees, errors relating to transaction processingoperations, liquidity, and technology, breaches of the internal control systemfinancial condition, and compliance requirements, the occurrence of systems failures and disruptions, and business continuation and disaster recovery.cause reputational harm. Insurance coverage may not be available for such losses, or where available, such losses may exceed insurance limits. This risk of loss also includes the potential legal actions that could arise as a resultbecause of an operational deficiency or as a resultbecause of noncompliance with applicable regulatory standards, adverse business decisions or their implementation, and customer attrition due to potential negative publicity. While we maintain a risk management program that is designed to minimize risk, we could suffer losses, face regulatory action, and suffer damage to our reputation as a resultbecause of our failure to properly anticipate and manage these risks.
ActsFailure to keep pace with technological changes could adversely affect our business.
The financial services industry is continually undergoing rapid technological change with frequent introductions of terrorismnew technology-driven products and services. The effective use of technology increases efficiency and enables financial institutions to better serve customers, reduce costs and create capacity. For instance, as private and state-sponsored hackers and malicious actors increasingly leverage the power of artificial intelligence to conduct cyber-attacks and other external events could impactfraudulent activity, financial institutions can adopt and learn to use the same technology in order to detect attempts and defend themselves. Adaptation to the current cybersecurity landscape requires resilience, flexibility, and collaboration in the face of increased threats enabled by technological advances. Our future success depends, in part, upon our ability to conduct business.
Our business is subject to risk from external events. Financial institutions have been, and continue to be, targets of terrorist threats aimed at compromising their operating and communication systems. The metropolitan New York and Philadelphia areas remain central targets for potential acts of terrorism, including cyber terrorism, which could affect not only our operations but thoseaddress the needs of our customers. Events suchcustomers by using technology to provide products and services that will satisfy customer demands, as these may become more commonwell as to create additional efficiencies in the future and could cause significant damage such as disrupt power and communication services, impact the stabilityour operations. Many of our facilitiescompetitors have substantially greater resources to invest in technological improvements. We may not be able to effectively implement new technology-driven products and resultservices or be successful in additional expenses, impairmarketing these products and services to our customers, or attract sufficient human capital to engage in rapid implementation and marketing. Failure to successfully keep pace with technological change affecting the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans, reduce the value of collateral securing the repayment of our loans, which could result in the loss of revenue. While we have establishedfinancial services industry and regularly test disaster recovery procedures, the occurrence of any such eventsustain a robust information security program through talent and human capital could have a material adverse effectimpact on our business operations and, in turn, our financial condition.
We hold certain intangible assets that could be classified as impaired in the future. If these assets are considered to be either partially or fully impaired in the future, our earnings could decline.
We record all assets acquiredcondition and liabilities assumed by the Company in purchase acquisitions, including goodwill and other intangible assets, at fair value. At December 31, 2017, goodwill totaling $411.6 million was not amortized but remains subject to impairment tests at least annually, or more often if events or circumstances indicate it may be impaired. Other intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives and are subject to impairment tests if events or circumstances indicate a potential inability to realize the carrying amount. The initial recording and subsequent impairment testing of goodwill and other intangible assets requires subjective judgments about the estimates of the fair value of assets acquired.
It is possible that our future impairment testing could result in an impairment of the value of goodwill or other identified intangible assets, or both. If we determine impairment exists at a given point in time, our earnings and the book value of the related intangible asset(s) will be reduced by the amount of the impairment. In any event, the results of impairment testing on goodwill and other identified intangible assets have no impact on our tangible book value or regulatory capital levels.operations.
A State Bank in New Jersey could be disruptive to our overall strategies and potentially reduce the level of public funds held on deposit with us.
We maintain a large and relatively stable level of deposits from local government entities, primarily through relationships we have cultivated with New Jersey municipalities. These moneys are a relatively low-cost source used to fund our loans and investments. The State of New Jersey is considering creating a State Bank, whose purpose would be to promote small businesses, fair educational lending, housing, infrastructure improvements, community development, economic development, commerce, and industry in the State. As currently proposed, it intends to permit State funds, including funds from State institutions and any State public source, to be held by the State Bank. There can be no assurance that legislation to create a State Bank will pass or whether it will pass as currently proposed.
Given the degree of our funding reliance on many New Jersey-based public entities and the potential scope of the proposed State Bank’s lending activities, we are uncertain of the impact this proposal may have on us. If we are unable to retain the current level of public funds on deposit, we may need to increase the costs associated with our funding needs, which could have a negative impact on our net income.Item 1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments


Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments
There are no unresolved comments from the staff of the SEC to report.


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Item 2.Properties


Item 1C.Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity risk management and strategy

Our risk management program is designed to identify, assess, and mitigate risks across various aspects of the Company, including financial, operational, regulatory, reputational, and legal risks. This includes cybersecurity, a critical component of our broader enterprise risk management program given the increasing reliance on technology by customers, vendors, agents, and our own employees and the ever-evolving risk of cyber threats. Our Chief Information Security Officer leads the Information Security team that administers the Company's information security program, which covers cybersecurity risk. The Chief Information Security Officer reports to the Chief Digital & Innovation Officer, and works alongside the Chief Risk Officer who provides an effective second line of defense on technological and security risk management. Our cybersecurity program aims to address risks through a cross-functional approach that focuses on confidentiality, security, and availability of information vital to protecting our customers, employees, stakeholders, and the Company as a whole.

Our objective for managing cybersecurity risk is to avoid or minimize the impacts of external threat events or other efforts to penetrate, disrupt, or misuse our critical systems or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. The structure of our information security program is designed to address applicable laws, regulatory guidance, and industry best practices, including Section 501 (b) of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and its implementing regulations, the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (“FFIEC”) Information Technology Examination Handbook, FFIEC Business Continuity Planning Handbook, FFIEC Cybersecurity Assessment Tool, and the Center for Internet Security Critical Security Controls. In addition, we leverage certain industry and government associations, vendors, third-party benchmarking, audits, and threat intelligence feeds to facilitate and promote program effectiveness. Our Chief Information Security Officer, Chief Digital & Innovation Officer, and our Chief Risk Officer, along with key members of their teams, regularly collaborate with peer banks, industry groups, and policymakers to discuss cybersecurity trends, issues, and emerging risks and identify best practices.

We employ a "defense in depth" methodology, which focuses on protecting information systems, products and services by deploying multiple layers of security controls in order to mitigate risks. We leverage human capital, customer input, responsive processes, and effective technology as part of our efforts to manage and maintain cybersecurity controls, data access standards, risk management standards, and encryption standards. We also employ a variety of preventative and detective tools designed to monitor, block, and provide alerts regarding suspicious activity, as well as to report on suspected advanced persistent threats. We have established processes and systems designed to mitigate cybersecurity risk, including an acceptable-use policy and terms of acceptance that all employees must review and abide by, regular and on-going education and training for employees, information notices, and recovery and resilience tests. We engage in regular assessments of our infrastructure, software systems, network architecture, and data repositories, using internal cybersecurity experts and external specialists and vendors. We require critical third-party vendors to establish incident response and reporting to our information security team and to maintain business continuity plans. We also actively monitor our e-mail gateways for malicious phishing email campaigns and monitor remote connections as a significant portion of our workforce has the option to work remotely. Remote workers are required to login to our network through a secure virtual private network with password and multi-factor authentication in order to minimize security risks while working outside the office.The Information Security Department consistently identifies vulnerabilities with our systems, implements protective updates and patches, and monitors the status of remediation efforts. Regular reports on these activities are provided to management committees to ensure transparency and oversight of our cybersecurity practices.

We maintain a Corporate Incident Response Plan (“CIRP”) that provides a documented set of protocols for responding to actual or potential cybersecurity incidents, including timely detection and analysis, containment and elimination, and recovery and improvement following an incident.The CIRP provides for notification of appropriate information breach or cybersecurity incidents and escalation to the Company's appointed Incident Management Team, which would be composed of an Incident Response Lead and team members from information technology, information security, enterprise risk management, corporate security, compliance, and legal teams, among others. The Incident Management Team would leverage the expertise of team members to work together to respond to the incident and take appropriate measures. The Senior Risk Committee would oversee the team and receive quartelry reporting on the incident and any relevant updates. The CIRP is coordinated through Incident Management Teams that involve the Bank’s Incident Management Lead, Chief Digital & Innovation Officer, Chief Information Security Officer, and other key departments.
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The CIRP facilitates coordination across multiple parts of our organization and is evaluated by the Chief Risk Officer and legal department at least annually.

Board and management governance

Our Chief Information Security Officer is accountable for managing our enterprise information security department and administering our information security program. The responsibilities of this department include cybersecurity risk assessment, defense operations, incident response, vulnerability assessment, threat intelligence, identity governance administration, third-party risk management, and business resilience to ensure confidentiality, availability, and integrity of technological assets, as well as maintenance of policies, procedures, and standards. The foregoing responsibilities are covered on a day-to-day basis by a first line of defense function, and our second line of defense function, including the Chief Information Security Officer and Chief Risk Officer, provides guidance, oversight, monitoring and challenge of the first line’s activities. The second line of defense function is separated from the first line of defense function through organizational structure and ultimately reports directly to the Chief Risk Officer. The department as a whole, consists of information security professionals with varying degrees of education and experience. Individuals within the department are generally subject to professional education and certification requirements. Our Chief Information Security Officer has substantial relevant expertise and formal training in the areas of information security and cybersecurity risk management.

Our board of directors has approved committees including the Risk Committee, which oversees overall risk management activities and policies including those related to technological and cybersecurity risks, and the Technology Committee, which oversees the Company’s technology strategy and approach to technology-related risks. The Risk and Technology Committees of the board are comprised of independent directors and receive regular reports from management, including the Chief Information Security Officer and Chief Risk Officer, on risk management, cybersecurity risks, actions taken to mitigate them, and technology and risk strategies. The Technology Committee reviews and approves our information security and technology budgets, policies, and strategies quarterly. The Risk Committee reviews our technology and cybersecurity risk profile on a regular basis.

The Company has also formed management committees including the Management Risk Committee, which focuses on multiple aspects of risk management including information technology, and the Technology Steering Committee, which focuses on technology and cybersecurity policy within the Bank.These management committees provide oversight and governance of our technology and information security programs.The management committees are chaired by managers within the information technology and information security departments and include the Chief Risk Officer, Chief Information Security Officer, and Chief Digital & Innovation Officer as well as their direct reports and other key departmental managers from throughout the entire company.The management committees meet at least quarterly to provide oversight of key risk management strategies, standards, policies, practices, controls, and mitigation and prevention efforts employed to manage security risks, especially those related to cybersecurity and technology risks.More frequent meetings occur from time to time in accordance with the CIRP in order to facilitate timely informing, monitoring, and response efforts.The Chief Information Security Officer reports summaries of key issues, including significant cybersecurity and/or privacy incidents, discussed at committee meetings and the actions taken to the Technology Steering Committee of the board on a monthly basis (or more frequently as may be required by the CIRP).

Notwithstanding our defensive measures and processes, the threat posed by cyber-attacks remains elevated. Our internal systems, processes, and controls are designed to mitigate loss from cyberattacks and, while we have experienced cybersecurity incidents in the past, to date, risks from cybersecurity threats have not to our knowledge materially affected the Company. For further discussion of risks from cybersecurity threats, see the section captioned “Risks Related to Technology and Security” in Item 1A. Risk Factors.

Item 2. Properties
Property
AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank conducted business through 8494 full-service branch offices located in Hudson, Bergen, Essex, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Unionthroughout northern and Warren counties incentral New Jersey, and inas well as Bucks, Lehigh and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania.Pennsylvania and Nassau and Queens counties in New York. The Bank maintains satellite loan production offices in Convent Station, Flemington, Paramus, and Princeton,Sea Girt, New Jersey, as well as in Bethlehem, Newtown and Wayne, Pennsylvania.Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania and Nassau and Queens County, New York. The aggregate net book value of premises and equipment was $63.2$71.0 million atas of December 31, 2017.2023.
On December 13, 2017, the Company completed the sale and leaseback of 12 of its New Jersey banking offices, which had a net book value of $14.5 million. Net proceeds from the sale totaled $20.7 million. The transaction did not have a significant immediate impact on the Company’s financial statements as the resultant net gain on sale will be recognized over the 10 year term of the leases as a reduction of rent expense.
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The Company’s executive offices are located in a leased facility at 239 Washington Street, Jersey City, New Jersey, which is also the Bank’s Main Office. The Company's and Bank’s administrative offices are located in a leased facility at 100111 Wood Avenue South, Iselin, New Jersey.
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Item 3.Legal Proceedings


Item 3.    Legal Proceedings
The Company is involved in various legal actions and claims arising in the normal course of its business. In the opinion of management, these legal actionsLiabilities for loss contingencies arising from such litigation and claims are not expectedrecorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated.
On May 2, 2022, a purported class action complaint was filed against the Bank in the Superior Court of New Jersey, which alleges that the Bank wrongfully assessed overdraft fees related to havedebit card transactions. The complaint asserts claims for breach of contract and breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing as well as an alleged violation of the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act. Plaintiff seeks to represent a material adverse impactproposed class of all the Bank's checking account customers who were charged overdraft fees on transactions that were authorized into a positive available balance. Plaintiff seeks unspecified damages, costs, attorneys’ fees, pre-judgment interest, an injunction, and other relief as the Company’s financial conditionCourt deems proper for the plaintiff and resultsthe proposed class. The Bank denies the allegations and is vigorously defending the matter. The parties had an initial mediation meeting on October 20, 2023, and the matter remains pending.
Although we are vigorously defending the litigation, the ultimate outcome of operations. this litigation described in this section, such as whether the likelihood of loss is remote, reasonably possible, or probable, or if and when the reasonably possible range of loss is estimable, is inherently uncertain. As a result of this, a $3.0 million charge was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2023 for estimated contingent litigation reserves.
Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures
Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.




PART II
 
Item 5.Market For Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Item 5.    Market For Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
The Company’s common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbol “PFS.” Trading in the Company’s common stock commenced on January 16, 2003.
As of February 1, 2018,2024, there were 83,209,29383,209,012 shares of the Company’s common stock issued and 66,842,53175,601,505 shares outstanding, and approximately 4,9354,523 stockholders of record.
The table below shows the high and low closing prices reported on the NYSE for the Company’s common stock, as well as the cash dividends paid per common share during the periods indicated.
 2017 2016
 High Low Dividend High Low Dividend
First Quarter$28.64
 $24.99
 $0.19
 $20.23
 $17.93
 $0.17
Second Quarter26.65
 23.34
 0.19
 20.68
 18.66
 0.18
Third Quarter26.81
 23.50
 0.20
 21.66
 19.22
 0.18
Fourth Quarter28.75
 25.83
 0.35
 28.70
 20.86
 0.18
The $0.35 cash dividend paid per common share in the fourth quarter of 2017 included a $0.15 special cash dividend declared by the Board of Directors on November 16, 2017 and paid on December 22, 2017. On January 26, 2018,25, 2024, the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20$0.24 per common share which was paid on February 28, 2018,23, 2024, to common stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 15, 2018.9, 2024. The Company’s Boardboard of Directorsdirectors intends to review the payment of dividends quarterly and plans to continue to maintain a regular quarterly cash dividend in the future, subject to financial condition, results of operations, tax considerations, industry standards, economic conditions, regulatory restrictions, including those that affect the payment of dividends by the Bank to the CompanyCompany; and other relevant factors.
The Company is subject to the requirements of Delaware law that generally limit dividends to an amount equal to the difference between the amount by which total assets exceed total liabilities and the amount equal to the aggregate par value of the outstanding shares of capital stock. If there is no difference between these amounts, dividends are limited to net income for the current and/or immediately preceding year. In addition, Federal Reserve Board guidance sets forth the supervisory expectation that bank holding companies will inform and consult with Federal Reserve Board staff in advance of issuing a dividend that exceeds earnings for the quarter and should inform the Federal Reserve Board and should eliminate, defer or significantly reduce dividends if: (i) net income available to stockholders for the past four quarters, net of dividends previously paid during that period, is not sufficient to fully fund the dividends; (ii) prospective rate of earnings retention is not consistent with the bank holding company’s capital needs and overall current and prospective financial condition; or (iii) the bank holding company will not meet, or is in danger of not meeting, its minimum regulatory capital adequacy ratios.
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Stock Performance Graph
Set forth below is a stock performance graph comparing (a) the cumulative total return on the Company’s common stock for the period December 31, 20122018 through December 31, 2017,2023, (b) the cumulative total return on stocks included in the Russell 2000 Index over such period, and (c) the cumulative total return of the SNL ThriftS&P U.S. SmallCap Banks Index over such period. The SNL ThriftThis Index, produced by SNL Financial LC,S&P Global, contains all thrift institutions traded on the NYSE and NASDAQ stock exchange. Cumulative return assumes the reinvestment of dividends and is expressed in dollars based on an assumed investment of $100 on December 31, 2012.2018.
1722
 Period Ending
Index12/31/201812/31/201912/31/202012/31/202112/31/202212/31/2023
Provident Financial Services, Inc.100.00 106.72 82.67 116.13 106.80 95.28 
Russell 2000 Index100.00 125.53 150.58 172.90 137.56 160.85 
S&P U.S. SmallCap Banks Index100.00 125.46 113.94 158.62 139.85 140.55 

55

  Period Ending
Index 12/31/2012 12/31/2013 12/31/2014 12/31/2015 12/31/2016 12/31/2017
Provident Financial Services, Inc. 100.00
 133.92
 129.63
 149.62
 217.53
 214.91
Russell 2000 100.00
 138.82
 145.62
 139.19
 168.85
 193.58
SNL Thrift 100.00
 128.33
 138.02
 155.20
 190.11
 188.72





The following table reports information regarding purchases of the Company’s common stock during the fourth quarter of 20172023 under the stock repurchase plan approved by the Company’s Boardboard of Directors:directors:
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Period 
(a) Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
 
(b) Average
Price Paid per
Share
 
(c) Total Number of
Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs(1)
 
(d) Maximum Number of
Shares that May Yet
Be Purchased Under the
Plans or Programs(1)(2)
October 1, 2017 through October 31, 2017 
 $
 
 3,148,526
November 1, 2017 through November 30, 2017 2,033
 25.92
 2,033
 3,146,493
December 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017 
 
 
 3,146,493
Total 2,033
 $25.92
 2,033
  
(1)On October 24, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the purchase of up to 3,107,077 shares of its common stock under a seventh general repurchase program which commenced upon completion of the previous repurchase program. The repurchase program has no expiration date. All shares purchased during the fourth quarter of 2017 were repurchased pursuant to the seventh general repurchase program.
(2)On December 20, 2012, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the purchase of up to 3,017,770 shares of its common stock under an eighth general repurchase program which will commence upon completion of the seventh repurchase program. The repurchase program has no expiration date.

All common stock repurchases for the three months ended December 31, 2017 were made in connection with employee income tax withholding on stock-based compensation.

Item 6.Selected Financial Data
The summary information presented below at or for each of the periods presented is derived in part from and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Company presented in Item 8.
 At December 31,
 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
 (Dollars in thousands)
Selected Financial Condition Data:         
Total assets$9,845,274
 $9,500,465
 $8,911,657
 $8,523,377
 $7,487,328
Loans, net(1)
7,265,523
 6,941,603
 6,476,250
 6,023,771
 5,130,149
Investment securities held to maturity477,652
 488,183
 473,684
 469,528
 357,500
Securities available for sale1,037,812
 1,040,386
 964,534
 1,074,395
 1,157,594
Deposits6,714,166
 6,553,629
 5,923,987
 5,792,523
 5,202,471
Borrowed funds1,742,514
 1,612,745
 1,707,632
 1,509,851
 1,203,879
Stockholders’ equity1,298,661
 1,251,781
 1,196,065
 1,144,099
 1,010,753


 For the Years Ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
 (Dollars in thousands)
Selected Operations Data:         
Interest income$323,846
 $302,315
 $291,781
 $279,361
 $252,777
Interest expense45,644
 43,748
 41,901
 40,472
 36,767
Net interest income278,202
 258,567
 249,880
 238,889
 216,010
Provision for loan losses5,600
 5,400
 4,350
 4,650
 5,500
Net interest income after provision for loan losses272,602
 253,167
 245,530
 234,239
 210,510
Non-interest income55,697
 55,393
 55,222
 41,168
 44,153
Non-interest expense187,822
 183,778
 180,589
 169,991
 148,763
Income before income tax expense140,477
 124,782
 120,163
 105,416
 105,900
Income tax expense46,528
 36,980
 36,441
 31,785
 35,366
Net income$93,949
 $87,802
 $83,722
 $73,631
 $70,534
Earnings per share:         
Basic earnings per share$1.46
 $1.38
 $1.33
 $1.22
 $1.23
Diluted earnings per share$1.45
 $1.38
 $1.33
 $1.22
 $1.23

(1)Loans are shown net of allowance for loan losses, deferred fees and unearned discount.

 At or For the Years Ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Selected Financial and Other Data(1)
         
Performance Ratios:         
Return on average assets0.99% 0.95% 0.96% 0.92% 0.97%
Return on average equity7.28
 7.12
 7.12
 6.75
 7.08
Average net interest rate spread3.07
 2.98
 3.07
 3.18
 3.19
Net interest margin(2)
3.21
 3.11
 3.20
 3.30
 3.31
Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities1.27
 1.25
 1.24
 1.22
 1.22
Non-interest income to average total assets0.58
 0.60
 0.64
 0.51
 0.61
Non-interest expenses to average total assets1.97
 1.99
 2.07
 2.11
 2.05
Efficiency ratio(3)
56.25
 58.54
 59.19
 60.70
 57.18
Asset Quality Ratios:         
Non-performing loans to total loans0.48% 0.61% 0.68% 0.88% 1.48%
Non-performing assets to total assets0.42
 0.53
 0.62
 0.69
 1.10
Allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans172.34
 145.95
 137.92
 114.63
 84.32
Allowance for loan losses to total loans0.82
 0.88
 0.94
 1.01
 1.24
Capital Ratios:         
Leverage capital(4)
9.65% 9.25% 9.25% 9.21% 9.42%
Total risk based capital(4)
12.67
 12.50
 12.57
 13.06
 12.89
Average equity to average assets13.53
 13.38
 13.53
 13.57
 14.14
Other Data:         
Number of full-service offices84
 87
 87
 86
 77
Full time equivalent employees1,006
 1,001
 1,008
 967
 886
(1)Averages presented are daily averages.
(2)Net interest income divided by average interest earning assets.
(3)Represents the ratio of non-interest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and non-interest income.


(4)Leverage capital ratios are presented as a percentage of quarterly average tangible assets. Risk-based capital ratios are presented as a percentage of risk-weighted assets.
  At December 31,
Efficiency Ratio Calculation: 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Net interest income $278,202
 $258,567
 $249,880
 $238,889
 $216,010
Non-interest income 55,697
 55,393
 55,222
 41,168
 44,153
Total income $333,899
 $313,960
 $305,102
 $280,057
 $260,163
Non-interest expense $187,822
 $183,778
 $180,589
 $169,991
 $148,763
Expense/income 56.25% 58.54% 59.19% 60.70% 57.18%

Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
General
On January 15, 2003, the Company became the holding company for the Bank, following the completion of the conversion of the Bank to a New Jersey-chartered capital stock savings bank. The Company issued an aggregate of 59,618,300repurchased 424 shares of its common stock inat a subscription offering to eligible depositors. Concurrent withcost of $6,735 during the conversion,fourth quarter of 2023 under the stock repurchase program approved by the Company’s board of directors. The Company contributed an additional 1,920,000repurchased 71,781 shares of its common stock and $4.8at a cost of $1.7 million in cash2023. As of December 31, 2023, 1.1 million shares were eligible for repurchase under the board approved stock repurchase program.
Period
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
 Average
Price Paid per
Share
Total Number of
Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced Programs(1)
Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Programs (1)
October 1, 2023 through October 31, 202358 $15.21 58 1,062,566 
November 1, 2023 through November 30, 2023104 15.77 104 1,062,462 
December 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023262 16.08 262 1,062,200 
Total424 $15.88 424 
(1) On December 28, 2020, the Company’s board of directors approved the purchase of up to 3,900,000 shares of its common stock under a ninth general repurchase program to commence upon completion of the eighth repurchase program. The Provident Bank Foundation, a charitable foundation established by the Bank.repurchase program has no expiration date.
Item 6.    [Reserved]
Item 7.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
General
The Company conducts business through its subsidiary, the Bank, a community- and customer-oriented bank currently operating full-service branches and loan production offices throughout northern and central New Jersey, as well as Bucks, Lehigh and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania.Pennsylvania and Nassau and Queens counties in New York. The Bank also provides fiduciary and wealth management services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Beacon Trust Company and insurance services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Provident Protection Plus, Inc.
Strategy
Established in 1839, the Bank is the oldest New Jersey-chartered bank in the state. The Bank offers a full range of retailcommercial and commercialretail loan and deposit products and emphasizes personal service and convenience.
The Bank’s strategy is to grow profitably through a commitment to credit quality and expanding market share by acquiring, retaining, and expanding customer relationships, while carefully managing interest rate risk.
In recent years, theThe Bank has focusedcontinues to maintain a diversified loan portfolio with an emphasis on commercial mortgage, multi-family, construction, and commercial loans as part ofin its strategyefforts to diversify the loan portfolio and reduce interest rate risk. These types of loans generally have adjustable rates that initially are higher than residential mortgage loans and generally have a higher rate of credit risk. The Bank’s creditlending policy focuses on quality underwriting standards and close monitoring of the loan portfolio. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, these commercial loan types accounted for 77.9%86.5% of the loan portfolio and retail loans accounted for 22.1%13.5%. The Company intends to continue to focus on commercial mortgage, multi-family, construction, and commercial lending relationships.
The Company’s relationship banking strategy focuses on increasing core accounts and expanding relationships through its branch network, mobile banking, online banking and telephone banking touch points.other digital services. The Company continues to evaluate opportunities to increase market share by expanding within existing and contiguous markets. Core deposits, consisting of savingsSavings and demand deposit accounts are generally a stable, relatively inexpensive source of funds. AtAs of December 31, 2017, core2023, savings and demand deposits were 90.5%89.4% of total deposits.
The Company’s results of operations are primarily dependent upon net interest income, the difference between interest earned on interest-earning assets and the interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities. ChangesIn a rapidly rising interest rate environment, changes in interest rates could have an adverse effect on net interest income to the extentas the Company’s interest-bearing assets
56


and interest-bearing liabilities reprice or mature at different times or relative interest rates. An increase in interest rates generally would result in a decrease in the Company’s average interest rate spread and net interest income, which could have a negative effect on profitability. The Company generates non-interest income such as income from retail and business account fees, loan servicing fees, loan origination fees, loan level swap fees, appreciation in the cash surrender value of Bank-owned life insurance, income from loan or securities sales, fees from wealth management services, and investment product sales, insurance brokerage fees and other fees. The Company’s operating expenses consist primarily of compensation and benefits expense, occupancy and equipment expense, data processing expense, the amortization of intangible assets, marketing and advertising expense and other general and administrative expenses. The Company’s results of operations are also affected by general economic conditions, changes in market interest rates, changes in asset quality, changes in asset values, actions of regulatory agencies and government policies.

Pending Acquisitions

Lakeland Bancorp
On September 26, 2022, the Company, the Merger Sub, and Lakeland entered into the merger agreement, pursuant to which the Company and Lakeland have agreed to combine their respective businesses in two mergers.
Under the merger agreement, Merger Sub will merge with and into Lakeland, with Lakeland as the surviving entity (the “merger”), and as soon as reasonably practicable following the merger, Lakeland will merge with and into the Company, with the Company as the surviving entity (the “holdco merger”). At a date and time following the holdco merger as determined by the Company, Lakeland Bank, a New Jersey state-charted commercial bank and a wholly owned subsidiary of Lakeland (“Lakeland Bank”), will conduct a bank merger with and into the Bank, with the Bank as the surviving bank (together, the “mergers”). The Company as the surviving institution will have approximately $25 billion in total assets and $20 billion in total deposits with banking locations across northern and central New Jersey and in surrounding areas of New York and Pennsylvania.
In the merger, Lakeland shareholders will receive 0.8319 of a share of the Company’s common stock for each share of Lakeland common stock they own.
The Company has received stockholder approval to proceed with the merger at a special meeting of stockholders held on February 1, 2023. Lakeland has received shareholder approval to proceed with the merger at a special meeting of shareholders held on February 1, 2023. The completion of the merger remains subject to receipt of the requisite bank regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. On December 20, 2023, the Company, along with Lakeland, agreed to extend their merger agreement to March 31, 2024, to provide additional time to obtain the required regulatory approvals.
Critical Accounting Policies
The Company considers certain accounting policies to be critically important to the fair presentation of its financial condition and results of operations. These policies require management to make complex judgments on matters which by their nature have elements of uncertainty. The sensitivity of the Company’s consolidated financial statements to these critical accounting policies, and the assumptions and estimates applied, could have a significant impact on its financial condition and results of operations. These assumptions, estimates and judgments made by management can be influenced by a number of factors, including the general economic environment. The Company has identified the followingallowance for credit losses on loans as a critical accounting policies:policy.
AdequacyOn January 1, 2020, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13, "Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which replaces the incurred loss methodology with the CECL methodology. It also applies to off-balance sheet credit exposures, including loan commitments and lines of credit. The adoption of the new standard resulted in the Company recording a $7.9 million increase to the allowance for loancredit losses
Valuation of securities available and a $3.2 million liability for sale and impairment analysis
Valuation of deferred tax assets
off-balance sheet credit exposures. The calculationadoption of the allowance for loan losses isstandard did not result in a critical accounting policychange to the Company's results of the Company. operations upon adoption as it was recorded as an $8.3 million cumulative effect adjustment, net of income taxes, to retained earnings.
The allowance for loancredit losses is a valuation account that reflects management’s evaluation of the probablecurrent expected credit losses in the loan portfolio. The Company maintains the allowance for loancredit losses through provisions for loancredit losses that are charged to income. Charge-offs against the allowance for loancredit losses are taken on loans where management determines that the collection of loan principal and interest is unlikely. Recoveries made on loans that have been charged-off are credited to the allowance for loancredit losses.
Management's evaluation of the adequacyThe calculation of the allowance for credit losses is a critical accounting policy of the Company. Management estimates the allowance balance using relevant available information, from internal and external sources, related to past events, current conditions, and a reasonable and supportable forecast. Historical credit loss experience for both the Company and peers provides the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses, where observed credit losses are converted to probability of default rate (“PDR”) curves through the use of segment-specific loss given default (“LGD”) risk factors that convert default
57


rates to loss severity based on industry-level, observed relationships between the two variables for each segment, primarily due to the nature of the underlying collateral. These risk factors were assessed for reasonableness against the Company’s own loss experience and adjusted in certain cases when the relationship between the Company’s historical default and loss severity deviate from that of the wider industry. The historical PDR curves, together with corresponding economic conditions, establish a quantitative relationship between economic conditions and loan performance through an economic cycle.
Using the historical relationship between economic conditions and loan performance, management’s expectation of future loan performance is incorporated using an externally developed economic forecast. This forecast is applied over a period that management has determined to be reasonable and supportable. Beyond the period over which management can develop or source a reasonable and supportable forecast, the model will revert to long-term average economic conditions using a straight-line, time-based methodology. The Company's current forecast period is six quarters, with a four-quarter reversion period to historical average macroeconomic factors. The Company's economic forecast is approved by the Company's ACL Committee.
The allowance for credit losses includesis measured on a collective (pool) basis, with both a quantitative and qualitative analysis that is applied on a quarterly basis, when similar risk characteristics exist. The respective quantitative allowance for each loan segment is measured using an econometric, discounted PDR/LGD modeling methodology in which distinct, segment-specific multi-variate regression models are applied to an external economic forecast. Under the discounted cash flows methodology, expected credit losses are estimated over the effective life of the loans by measuring the difference between the net present value of modeled cash flows and amortized cost basis. Contractual cash flows over the contractual life of the loans are the basis for modeled cash flows, adjusted for modeled defaults and expected prepayments and discounted at the loan-level effective interest rate. The contractual term excludes expected extensions, renewals and modifications unless either of the following applies at the reporting date: management has a reasonable expectation that a modification will be executed with an individual borrower; or when an extension or renewal option is included in the original contract and is not unconditionally cancellable by the Company. Management will assess the likelihood of the option being exercised by the borrower and appropriately extend the maturity for modeling purposes.
The Company considers qualitative adjustments to credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the quantitative component of the loss estimation process. Qualitative factors are based on portfolio concentration levels, model imprecision, changes in industry conditions, changes in the Company’s loan review process, changes in the Company’s loan policies and procedures, and economic forecast uncertainty.
One of all loans on which the collectabilitymost significant judgments involved in estimating the Company’s allowance for credit losses relates to the macroeconomic forecasts used to estimate expected credit losses over the forecast period. As of principal may not be reasonably assured. For residential mortgage and consumer loans, this is determined primarily by delinquency status. For commercial mortgage, multi-family, construction and commercial loans,December 31, 2023, the model incorporated Moody’s baseline economic forecast, as adjusted for qualitative factors, as well as an extensive review of financial performance, payment historyclassified loans and collateral values is conducted onloans that were classified as impaired with a quarterly basis.
As partspecific reserve assigned to those loans. For example, the commercial property price index used in the model has a higher proportion of office exposure relative to that of the evaluationBank. This baseline outlook reflected a worsened economic forecast and related deterioration in the projected commercial property price index used in our CECL model. The Company made qualitative adjustments to the projected commercial real estate property price index, considering the differences in portfolio collateral composition versus the commercial property price index used in our CECL models. This resulted in a total provision of $27.9 million for the adequacyyear ended December 31, 2023, and an overall coverage ratio of 99 basis points. Management believes the allowance for loancredit losses each quarter management prepares an analysis that categorizesallocated to the entire loan portfolio by certain risk characteristics such as loan type (residential mortgage, commercial mortgage, construction, commercial, etc.) and loan risk rating.
When assigning a risk rating to a loan, management utilizes a nine point internal risk rating system. Loans deemed to be “acceptable quality” are rated 1 through 4, with a rating of 1 established for loans with minimal risk. Loans deemed to be of “questionable quality” are rated 5 (watch) or 6 (special mention). Loans with adverse classifications (substandard, doubtful or loss) are rated 7, 8 or 9, respectively. Commercial mortgage, multi-family, construction and commercial loans are rated individually and each lending officer is responsible for risk rating loans in their portfolio. These risk ratings are then reviewed by the department manager and/or the Chief Lending Officer and the Credit Department. The risk ratings are also confirmed through periodic loan review examinations, which are currently performed by an independent third party, and periodically by the Credit Committee in the credit renewal or approval process. In addition, the Bank requires an annual review be performed for commercial and commercial real estate non-owner occupied portfolio segment accurately represents the estimated inherent losses, factoring in the qualitative adjustment and other assumptions, including the selection of the baseline forecast within the model. If the Company used the unadjusted baseline outlooks for the commercial property price index over the expected lives of Commercial Real Estate Non-Owner Occupied and Owner-Occupied loan portfolios, the provision would have risen by $6.5 million, leading to an overall coverage ratio of 105 basis points.
Portfolio segment is defined as the level at which an entity develops and documents a systematic methodology to determine its allowance for credit losses. Management developed segments for estimating loss based on type of borrower and collateral which is generally based upon federal call report segmentation. The segments have been combined or sub-segmented as needed to ensure loans above certain dollar thresholds, dependingof similar risk profiles are appropriately pooled. As of December 31, 2023, the portfolio and class segments for the Company’s loan portfolio were:
Mortgage Loans – Residential, Commercial Real Estate, Multi-Family and Construction
Commercial Loans – Commercial Owner-Occupied and Commercial Non-Owner Occupied
Consumer Loans – First Lien Home Equity and Other Consumer
The allowance for credit losses on loans individually evaluated for impairment is based upon loans that have been identified through the Company’s normal loan type,monitoring process. This process includes the review of delinquent and problem loans at the Company’s Delinquency, Credit, Credit Risk Management and Allowance Committees; or which may be identified
58


through the Company’s loan review process. Generally, the Company only evaluates loans individually for impairment if the loan is non-accrual, non-homogeneous and the balance is greater than $1.0 million.
For all classes of loans deemed collateral-dependent, the Company estimates expected credit losses based on the fair value of the collateral less any selling costs. If the loan is not collateral dependent, the allowance for credit losses related to help determineindividually assessed loans is based on discounted expected cash flows using the appropriateloan’s initial effective interest rate.
For loans acquired that have experienced more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since their origination are considered PCD loans. The Company evaluates acquired loans for deterioration in credit quality based on any of, but not limited to, the following: (1) non-accrual status; (2) modification designation; (3) risk rating.
Management estimatesratings of special mention, substandard or doubtful; (4) watchlist credits; and (5) delinquency status, including loans that are current on acquisition date, but had been previously delinquent. At the amountacquisition date, an estimate of loanexpected credit losses is made for groups of PCD loans by applying quantitative loss factorswith similar risk characteristics and individual PCD loans without similar risk characteristics. Subsequent to loan segments at the risk rating level, and applying qualitative adjustments to each loan segment atacquisition date, the portfolio level. Quantitative loss factors give consideration to historical loss experience by loan typeinitial allowance for credit losses on PCD loans will increase or decrease based upon an appropriate look-back period and adjusted for a loss emergence period. Quantitative loss factors are evaluated at least annually. Management completed its annual evaluation of the quantitative loss factors for the quarter ended September 30, 2017. Qualitative adjustments give consideration to other qualitative or environmental factors such as trends and levels of delinquencies, impaired loans, charge-offs, recoveries and loan volumes, as well as national and local economic trends and conditions. Qualitative adjustments reflect riskson future evaluations, with changes recognized in the loan portfolio not captured by the quantitative loss factors and, as such, are evaluated from a risk level perspective relative to the risk levels present over the look-back period. Qualitative adjustments are evaluated at least quarterly. The reserves resulting from the application of both of these sets of loss factors are combined to arrive at the allowanceprovision for loancredit losses.
Management believes the primary risks inherent in the portfolio are a general decline in the economy, a decline in real estate market values, rising unemployment or a protracted period of elevated unemployment, increasing vacancy rates in commercial investment properties and possible increases in interest rates in the absence of economic improvement. Any one or a combination of these events may adversely affect borrowers’ ability to repay the loans, resulting in increased delinquencies, loancredit losses and futurehigher levels of provisions. Accordingly, the Company has provided for loan losses at the current level to address the current risk in its loan portfolio. Management considers it important to maintain the ratio of the allowance for loancredit losses to total loans at an acceptable level given current and forecasted economic conditions, interest rates and the composition of the portfolio.
The CECL approach to calculate the allowance for credit losses on loans is significantly influenced by the composition, characteristics and quality of the Company’s loan portfolio, as well as the prevailing economic conditions and forecast utilized. Although management believes that the Company has established and maintained the allowance for loancredit losses at appropriate levels, additions may be necessary if future economic and other conditions differ substantially from the current operating environment.environment and economic forecast. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis giving consideration to forecasted economic factors, historical


loss experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances.factors. The model includes both quantitative and qualitative components. Such estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate. Illiquid credit markets, volatile securities markets, and declines in the housing and commercial real estate markets and the economy generally have combined to increase the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods, and to the extent actual losses are higher than management estimates, additional provision for credit losses on loans could be required and could adversely affect our earnings or financial position in future periods. In addition, various regulatory agencies periodically review the adequacy of the Company’s allowance for loancredit losses as an integral part of their examination process. Such agencies may require the Company to recognize additions to the allowance or additional write-downs based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. Although management uses the best information available, the level of the allowance for loancredit losses remains an estimate that is subject to significant judgment and short-term change.volatility.
The Company’s available for sale securities portfolio is carried at estimated fair value, with any unrealized gains or losses, net of taxes, reported as accumulatedMaterial changes to these and other comprehensive income or loss in Stockholders’ Equity. Estimated fair values are based on market quotations or matrix pricing as discussed in Note 5relevant factors creates greater volatility to the consolidated financial statements. Securities whichallowance for credit losses, and therefore, greater volatility to the Company hasCompany’s reported earnings. For the positive intentyear ended December 31, 2023, the increase in provision was primarily attributable to a worsened economic forecast and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and carried at amortized cost. Management conducts a periodic review and evaluation of the securities portfolio to determine if any declinesrelated deterioration in the fair values of securities are other-than-temporary. In this evaluation, if such a decline were deemed other-than-temporary, management would measure the total credit-related component of the unrealized loss, and recognize that portion of the loss as a charge to current period earnings. The remaining portion of the unrealized loss would be recognized as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income. The fair value of the securities portfolio is significantly affected by changesprojected commercial property price indices used in interest rates. In general, as interest rates rise, the fair value of fixed-rate securities decreases and as interest rates fall, the fair value of fixed-rate securities increases. The Company determines if it has the intent to sell these securities or if it is more likely than not that the Company would be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery. If either exists, the entire decline in value is considered other-than-temporary and would be recognized as an expense in the current period. In its evaluations, the Company did not recognize an other-than-temporary impairment charge on securities for the years ended 2017, 2016 and 2015.
The determination of whether deferred tax assets will be realizable is predicated on the reversal of existing deferred tax liabilities and estimates of future taxable income. Such estimates are subject to management’s judgment. A valuation allowance is established when management is unable to conclude that it is more likely than not that it will realize deferred tax assets based on the nature and timing of these items. The Company did not require a valuation allowance at December 31, 2017 and 2016.


our CECL model.
Analysis of Net Interest Income
Net interest income represents the difference between income on interest-earning assets and expense on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income depends on the relative amounts of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities and the rates of interest earned on such assets and paid on such liabilities.
Average Balance Sheet. The following table sets forth certain information for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015.2021. For the periods indicated, the total dollar amount of interest income from average interest-earning assets and the resultant yields, as well as the interest expense on average interest-bearing liabilities isare expressed both in dollars and rates. No tax equivalent adjustments were made. Average balances are daily averages.
59


For the Years Ended December 31, For the Years Ended December 31,
2017 2016 2015 202320222021
Average
Outstanding
Balance
 
Interest
Earned/
Paid
 
Average
Yield/
Cost
 
Average
Outstanding
Balance
 
Interest
Earned/
Paid
 
Average
Yield/
Cost
 
Average
Outstanding
Balance
 
Interest
Earned/
Paid
 
Average
Yield/
Cost
Average
Outstanding
Balance
Interest
Earned/
Paid
Average
Yield/
Cost
Average
Outstanding
Balance
Interest
Earned/
Paid
Average
Yield/
Cost
Average
Outstanding
Balance
Interest
Earned/
Paid
Average
Yield/
Cost
(Dollars in thousands) (Dollars in thousands)
Interest-earning assets:                 
Deposits$19,670
 $199
 1.00% $62,704
 $314
 0.50% $22,663
 $57
 0.25%
Deposits
Deposits$65,991 $3,421 5.18 %$102,505 $809 0.79 %$421,898 $533 0.13 %
Federal funds sold and short-term investments51,790
 1,071
 2.07
 13,010
 184
 1.42
 1,431
 1
 0.04
Investment securities(1)
487,616
 13,027
 2.67
 478,901
 13,208
 2.76
 473,425
 13,494
 2.85
Securities available for sale1,044,703
 22,384
 2.14
 1,008,900
 19,377
 1.92
 1,029,249
 20,323
 1.97
Federal Home Loan Bank NY Stock73,995
 4,061
 5.49
 72,928
 3,513
 4.82
 73,162
 3,075
 4.20
Held to maturity debt securities, net
Available for sale debt securities
Equity Securities, At Fair Value
Federal Home Loan Bank NY stock
Net loans(2)
6,971,512
 283,104
 4.06
 6,669,778
 265,719
 3.98
 6,215,347
 254,831
 4.10
Total interest-earning assets8,649,286
 323,846
 3.74
 8,306,221
 302,315
 3.64
 7,815,277
 291,781
 3.73
Non-interest earning assets885,499
     906,332
     876,723
    
Total assets$9,534,785
     $9,212,553
     $8,692,000
    
Total assets
Total assets
Interest-bearing liabilities:                 
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Savings deposits
Savings deposits
Savings deposits$1,101,103
 12,205
 0.35% $1,047,061
 1,709
 0.16% $984,704
 1,039
 0.11%$1,282,062 $$2,184 0.17 0.17 %$1,492,046 $$1,276 0.09 0.09 %$1,414,560 $$1,604 0.11 0.11 %
Demand deposits3,477,413
 2,092
 0.19
 3,305,269
 10,106
 0.31
 2,955,133
 8,045
 0.27
Time deposits649,195
 5,144
 0.79
 725,802
 5,132
 0.71
 784,242
 5,437
 0.69
Borrowed funds1,581,964
 26,203
 1.66
 1,577,307
 26,801
 1.70
 1,603,974
 27,380
 1.71
Subordinated debentures
Total interest-bearing liabilities6,809,675
 45,644
 0.67
 6,655,439
 43,748
 0.66
 6,328,053
 41,901
 0.66
Non-interest bearing liabilities:                 
Non-interest bearing deposits1,366,354
     1,243,224
     1,117,372
    
Other Non-interest bearing liabilities68,783
     81,044
     70,976
    
Total Non-Interest Bearing Liabilities1,435,137
     1,324,268
     1,188,348
    
Non-interest bearing deposits
Non-interest bearing deposits
Other non-interest bearing liabilities
Other non-interest bearing liabilities
Other non-interest bearing liabilities
Total non-interest bearing liabilities
Total non-interest bearing liabilities
Total non-interest bearing liabilities
Total liabilities
Total liabilities
Total liabilities8,244,812
     7,979,707
     7,516,401
    
Stockholders’ equity1,289,973
     1,232,846
     1,175,599
    
Stockholders’ equity
Stockholders’ equity
Total liabilities and equity
Total liabilities and equity
Total liabilities and equity$9,534,785
     $9,212,553
     $8,692,000
    
Net interest income  $278,202
     $258,567
     $249,880
  
Net interest income
Net interest income
Net interest rate spread
Net interest rate spread
Net interest rate spread    3.07%     2.98%     3.07%2.63 %3.22 %2.89 %
Net interest earning assets$1,839,611
     $1,650,782
     $1,487,224
    
Net interest margin(3)
    3.21%     3.11%     3.20%
Net interest margin(3)
Net interest margin(3)
3.16 %3.37 %3.00 %
Ratio of interest-earning assets to total interest-bearing liabilities1.27x
     1.25x
     1.24x
    
(1)(1) Average outstanding balance amounts are at amortized cost.
(2)Average outstanding balances are net of the allowance for loan losses, deferred loan fees and expenses, and loan premiums and discounts and include non-accrual loans.
(3)Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.


(2) Average outstanding balances are net of the allowance for credit losses, deferred loan fees and expenses, and loan premiums and discounts and include non-accrual loans.
(3) Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.

60


Rate/Volume Analysis. The following table presents the extent to which changes in interest rates and changes in the volume of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities have affected interest income and interest expense during the periods indicated. Information is provided in each category with respect to: (i) changes attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate); (ii) changes attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume); and (iii) the net change. The changes attributable to the combined impact of volume and rate have been allocated proportionately to the changes due to volume and the changes due to rate.
 Years Ended December 31,
 2023 vs. 20222022 vs. 2021
 
Increase/(Decrease)
Due to
Total
Increase/
(Decrease)
Increase/(Decrease)
Due to
Total
Increase/
(Decrease)
 VolumeRateVolumeRate
 (In thousands)
Interest-earning assets:
Deposits, Federal funds sold and short-term investments$(8,646)$10,061 $1415 $(10,187)$9,479 $(708)
Investment securities(787)254 (533)(749)(100)(849)
Securities available for sale(4,387)10,454 6,067 6,905 6,192 13,097 
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock2,501 1604 4,105 53 (328)(275)
Loans25,394 113,191 138,585 9,444 43,133 52,577 
Total interest-earning assets14,075 135,564 149,639 5,466 58,376 63,842 
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Savings deposits(202)1110 908 84 (412)(328)
Demand deposits(1,827)95,250 93,423 1,041 10,548 11,589 
Time deposits3,294 23,130 26,424 (1,047)1,977 930 
Borrowed funds18,450 28,096 46,546 (378)1,074 696 
Subordinated debentures13 423 436 (807)233 (574)
Total interest-bearing liabilities19,728 148,009 167,737 (1,107)13,420 12,313 
Net interest income$(5,653)$(12,445)$(18,098)$6,573 $44,956 $51,529 
 Years Ended December 31,
 2017 vs. 2016 2016 vs. 2015
 
Increase/(Decrease)
Due to
 
Total
Increase/
(Decrease)
 
Increase/(Decrease)
Due to
 
Total
Increase/
(Decrease)
 Volume Rate Volume Rate 
 (In thousands)
Interest-earning assets:           
Deposits, Federal funds sold and short-term investments$1
 $771
 $772
 $295
 $145
 $440
Investment securities238
 (419) (181) 155
 (441) (286)
Securities available for sale706
 2,301
 3,007
 (397) (549) (946)
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock52
 496
 548
 (10) 448
 438
Loans12,185
 5,200
 17,385
 18,252
 (7,364) 10,888
Total interest-earning assets13,182
 8,349
 21,531
 18,295
 (7,761) 10,534
Interest-bearing liabilities:           
Savings deposits92
 292
 384
 69
 601
 670
Demand deposits547
 1,551
 2,098
 1,011
 1,050
 2,061
Time deposits(572) 584
 12
 (411) 106
 (305)
Borrowed funds79
 (677) (598) (454) (125) (579)
Total interest-bearing liabilities146
 1,750
 1,896
 215
 1,632
 1,847
Net interest income$13,036
 $6,599
 $19,635
 $18,080
 $(9,393) $8,687
There were no out-of-period items and/or adjustments that had a material impact on the rate/volume analysis for the periods aforementioned in the table above.
Comparison of Financial Condition atas of December 31, 20172023 and December 31, 20162022
Total assets increased $344.8 million, or 3.6%, to $9.85 billion atas of December 31, 2017,2023 were $14.21 billion, a $427.4 million increase from $9.50 billion at December 31, 2016.2022. The increase in total assets was primarily due to a $322.2$624.8 million increase in total loans, and a $46.5 million increase in total cash and cash equivalents, partially offset by a $20.9 million decrease in premises and equipment and a $7.6$127.5 million decrease in total investments.
Total loans increased $322.2 million, or 4.6%, to $7.33The Company’s loan portfolio totaled $10.87 billion atas of December 31, 2017, from $7.002023 and $10.25 billion atas of December 31, 2016. 2022. The loan portfolio consists of the following:

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20232022
Mortgage loans:
Commercial$4,512,411 4,316,185 
Multi-family1,812,500 1,513,818 
Construction653,246 715,494 
Residential1,164,956 1,177,698 
Total mortgage loans8,143,113 7,723,195 
Commercial loans (1)
2,442,406 2,233,670 
Consumer loans299,164 304,780 
Total gross loans10,884,683 10,261,645 
Premiums on purchased loans1,474 1,380 
Net deferred fees and unearned discounts(12,456)(14,142)
Total loans$10,873,701 10,248,883 
(1) Commercial loans consist of owner-occupied real estate and commercial & industrial loans.
For the year ended December 31, 2017, loan originations, including advances on lines of credit, totaling $3.70 billion was partially offset by repayments of $3.34 billion and loan sales of $24.9 million. The loan portfolio had2023, the Company experienced net increases of $192.5$298.7 million in commercial mortgagemulti-family loans, $127.8 million in construction loans, $114.4$208.7 million in commercial loans and $1.8$196.2 million in multi-familycommercial mortgage loans, partially offset by net decreases of $69.3$62.2 million in construction loans and net decreases in residential mortgage and consumer loans of $12.7 million and $42.8$5.6 million, in consumer loans.
Commercialrespectively. All commercial loans, consisting of commercial real estate, multi-family, commercial and construction and commercial loans, totaled $5.71 billion, accounting for 77.9%represented 86.5% of the loan portfolio atas of December 31, 2017,2023, compared to $5.28 billion, or 75.3%85.6% as of the loan portfolio at December 31, 2016. The Company intends to continue to focus on the origination of commercially-oriented loans.2022. Retail loans, which consist of one- to four-family residential mortgage and consumer loans, such as fixed-rate home equity loans and lines of credit, totaled $1.62$1.46 billion and accounted for 22.1%13.5% of the loan portfolio atas of December 31, 2017,2023, compared to $1.73$1.48 billion, or 24.7%14.4%, of the loan portfolio atas of December 31, 2016.2022. For the year ended December 31, 2023, loan fundings, including advances on lines of credit, totaled $3.34 billion, compared with $3.95 billion for 2022.
The Bank’s lending activities, though concentrated in the communities surrounding its offices, extend predominantly throughout New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania and Nassau and Queens County, New York. This geographic concentration subjects the Company’s loan portfolio to the general economic conditions within these states. The risks created by this concentration have been considered by management in the determination of the appropriateness of the allowance for credit losses.
We consider our commercial real estate loans to be higher risk categories in our loan portfolio. These loans are particularly sensitive to economic conditions. As of December 31, 2023, our portfolio of commercial real estate loans, including multi-family and construction loans, totaled $6.98 billion, or 64.81% of total loans.
The Company does not originatebelieves the CRE loans it originates are appropriately collateralized under its credit standards. Collateral properties include multi-family apartment buildings, warehouse/distribution buildings, shopping centers, office buildings, mixed-use buildings, hotels/motels, senior living, apartment buildings, residential and commercial tract developments, and raw land or purchase sub-primelots to be developed into single-family homes. The primary source of repayment on the permanent loan portion of these loans, approximately 93.4%, is generally expected to come from the cash flow stream of the underlying leases which are dependent on the successful operations of the respective tenants. The primary source of the repayment on the construction portfolio is dependent on the successful completion of the project and the related sale, permanent financing or option ARM loans. Priorlease of the real property collateral. As a result, the performance of these loans is generally impacted by fluctuations in collateral values, the ability of the borrower to September 30, 2008, the Company originated “Alt-A” mortgagesobtain permanent financing, and, in the formcase of stated income loans with a maximum loan-to-value ratioto residential builder/developers, volatility in consumer demand.
The table below summarizes the collateral concentrations of 50%CRE loans on a limited basis.gross basis, not including any purchase accounting adjustments ("PAA") as of December 31, 2023 (in thousands):

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AmountPercentage of Total
Multi-family$2,310,795 33.1 %
Retail1,801,837 25.8 %
Industrial1,329,168 19.0 %
Office505,906 7.2 %
Mixed456,160 6.5 %
Special use property231,056 3.3 %
Residential161,945 2.3 %
Hotel151,156 2.2 %
Land36,742 0.5 %
Total CRE, multi-family and construction loans$6,984,765 100.0 %
The balancedetermination of collateral value is critically important when financing real estate. As a result, obtaining current and objectively prepared appraisals is a major part of the underwriting process. The Company engages a variety of professional firms to supply appraisals, market studies and feasibility reports, environmental assessments and project site inspections to complement its internal resources to underwrite and monitor these “Alt-A”credit exposures.
However, in periods of economic uncertainty where real estate market conditions may change rapidly, more current appraisals are obtained when warranted by conditions such as a borrower’s deteriorating financial condition, their possible inability to perform on the loan or other indicators of increasing risk of reliance on collateral value as the sole source of repayment of the loan. Annual appraisals are generally obtained for loans atgraded substandard or worse where real estate is a material portion of the collateral value and/or the income from the real estate or sale of the real estate is the primary source of debt service.
Appraisals are, in substantially all cases, reviewed by a third party to determine the reasonableness of the appraised value. The third-party reviewer will challenge whether or not the data used is appropriate and relevant, form an opinion as to the appropriateness of the appraisal methods and techniques used, and determine if overall the analysis and conclusions of the appraiser can be relied upon. Additionally, the third-party reviewer provides a detailed report of that analysis. Further review may be conducted by credit or lending teams, including the Bank’s commercial workout team as conditions warrant. These additional steps of review are undertaken to confirm that the underlying appraisal and the third-party analysis can be relied upon. If differences arise, management addresses those with the reviewer and determines an appropriate resolution in accordance with its lending policy. Both the appraisal process and the appraisal review process can be less reliable in establishing accurate collateral values during and following periods of economic weakness due to the lack of comparable sales and the limited availability of financing to support an active market of potential purchasers.
The table below summarizes the Company’s commercial real estate portfolio as of December 31, 2017 was $4.2 million. Of this total, there were no loans that were 90 days or more delinquent.2023, as segregated by the geographic region in which the property is located (dollars in thousands):
AmountPercentage of Total
New Jersey$3,794,529 54.4 %
Pennsylvania1,322,448 18.9 %
New York986,096 14.1 %
Other states881,692 12.6 %
Total commercial real estate loans$6,984,765 100.0 %
The Company participates in loans originated by other banks, including participations designated as Shared National Credits (“SNC”SNCs”). The Company’s gross commitments and outstanding balances as a participant in SNCs were $342.5$140.5 million and $223.9$54.9 million, respectively, atas of December 31, 2017. At2023. As of December 31, 2017, no SNC relationships were2023, one commercial relationship was classified as substandard.
The Company had outstanding junior lien mortgagessubstandard with a commitment and balance totaling $205.1 million at December 31, 2017. Of this total, 24 loans totaling $1.3 million were$7.0 million. This relationship was 90 days or more delinquent and were allocated total loss reservesas of $238,000.December 31, 2023.
TheAs of December 31, 2023, the Company’s allowance for credit losses related to the loan losses decreased $1.7 millionportfolio was 0.99% of total loans, compared to $60.2 million at0.86% of total loans as of December 31, 2017, as2022. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded a resultprovision of $27.9 million for credit losses related to loans, compared to $8.4 million for the year ended December
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31, 2022. The Company had net charge-offs of $7.3$8.1 million during 2017, partially offset by provisions for loan lossesthe year ended December 31, 2023, compared to net charge-offs of $5.6 million.$1.1 million in 2022. The decreaseincrease in the allowance for loancredit losses on loans was a function ofprimarily due to the declineweakened economic forecast used in non-performingour CECL model, combined with an increase in total loans partially offset by the growth in the loan portfolio. outstanding.
Total non-performing loans atas of December 31, 20172023 were $34.9$49.6 million, or 0.48%0.46% of total loans, compared with $42.4$58.5 million, or 0.61%0.57% of total loans atas of December 31, 2016. At2022. As of December 31, 2017,2023, impaired loans totaled $52.0$42.3 million with related specific reserves of $2.7$2.9 million, compared with impaired loans totaling $52.0$68.8 million with related specific reserves of $2.3$2.4 million atas of December 31, 2016.2022. Within total impaired loans, there were $31.4$37.1 million of loans for which the present value of expected future cash flows or current collateral valuations exceeded the carrying amounts of the loans and for which no specific reserves were required in accordance with GAAP. At December 31, 2017, the Company’s allowance for loan losses was 0.82% of total loans, compared with 0.88% of total loans at December 31, 2016. The decline in the loan coverage ratio from December 31, 2016, resulted from an overall improvement in asset quality.
Non-performing commercial mortgage loans decreased $403,000$23.1 million to $7.1$5.2 million atas of December 31, 2017,2023, from $7.5$28.2 million atas of December 31, 2016. At2022. As of December 31, 2017, the Company held 102023, non-performing commercial mortgage loans consisted of seven loans. Of these seven loans, one loan totaling $95,600 was a PCD loan. The largest non-performing commercial mortgage loan was a $2.9$3.0 million loan secured by a first mortgage on a retail propertybuilding located in Washington Township,Wayne, New Jersey.  The loan is presently in default.  There is no contractual commitment to advance additional funds to this borrower.
Non-performing commercial loans increased $456,000$17.3 million to $17.2$41.5 million atas of December 31, 2017,2023, from $16.8$24.2 million atas of December 31, 2016.2022. Non-performing commercial loans atas of December 31, 20172023 consisted of 30 loans.26 loans, of which 14 loans were under 90 days accruing. Of these non-performing commercial loans, four were PCD loans totaling $1.2 million. The largest non-performing commercial loan relationship consisted of twothree loans to a health and fitness club with totalaggregate outstanding balances of $8.4$19.7 million atas of December 31, 2017. Both of these2023. These loans are secured by liens on a commercial property.real estate and all business assets. These loans are currently payinghave matured and the borrower is in accordance withthe process of an orderly wind-down of their restructured terms.operations.
Non-performing construction loans decreased $1.1 million to $771,000 as of December 31, 2023. Non-performing construction loans as of December 31, 2023 consisted of one PCD loan. There were notwo non-performing constructionsconstruction loans atin 2022.
Non-performing multi-family mortgage loans consisted of one loan totaling $744,000 as of December 31, 2017. Non-performing constructions2023, compared to two non-performing multi-family mortgage loans at the prior year-end were $2.5 million.
Attotaling $1.6 million as of December 31, 2017,2022.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company held $6.9$11.7 million of foreclosed assets, compared with $8.0$2.1 million atas of December 31, 2016.2022. Foreclosed assets are carried at the lower of the outstanding loan balance at the time of foreclosure or fair value, based on recent appraisals and valuation estimates, less estimated selling costs.costs to sell. During the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, there were 16four additions to foreclosed assets with aan aggregate carrying value of $3.8$15.1 million, and 26four properties sold with aan aggregate carrying value of $4.3$3.7 million and one write-down of $2.0 million. Foreclosed assets at December 31, 2017 consisted of $3.9 million of commercial real estate and $3.0 million of residential real estate.
Non-performing assets totaled $41.8$61.3 million, or 0.42%0.43% of total assets atas of December 31, 2017,2023, compared to $50.4$60.6 million, or 0.53%0.44% of total assets atas of December 31, 2016.2022. If the non-accrual loans had performed in accordance with their original terms, interest income would have increased by $1.9$1.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2017.2023. The amount of cash basis interest income that was recognized on impaired loans during the year ended December 31, 20172023 was not material.
Total deposits increased $160.5decreased $270.5 million or 2.4%, during the year ended December 31, 20172023, to $6.71$10.29 billion. Total core deposits, which consist of savings and demand deposit accounts increased $176.9decreased $615.0 million or 3.0%, to $6.08$9.20 billion atas of December 31, 2017,2023, while total time deposits decreased $16.4increased $344.5 million to $634.8 million at$1.10 billion as of December 31, 2017.2023. The increasedecrease in coresavings and demand deposits for the year ended December 31, 2017 was largely attributable to a $140.0$440.6 million increasedecrease in interest bearingnon-interest-bearing demand deposits, a $262.9 million decrease in savings deposits and a $103.6 million increase in non-interest bearing demand deposits, partially offset by a $50.7$216.8 million decrease in money market deposits, andpartially offset by a $16.0$305.3 million increase in interest-bearing demand deposits. During the year ended December 31, 2023, our insured cash sweep ("ICS") product increased $461.3 million to $520.2 million as of December 31, 2023, from $58.9 million as of December 31, 2022. The increase in time deposits consisted of a $366.4 million increase in retail time deposits, partially offset by a $21.9 million decrease in savingsbrokered time deposits. AtDuring the year ended December 31, 2017, core deposits represented 90.5%2023, our Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Services ("CDARS") product decreased $21.9 million to $163.9 million as of December 31, 2023, from $185.8 million as of December 31, 2022.
Within total deposits, comparedbrokered deposits totaled $689.3 million as of December 31, 2023. Our brokered deposits are made up primarily of ICS deposits and CDARS. Both of these services are provided by the bank to 90.1%increase the level of customers' deposit insurance. Our estimated uninsured and uncollateralized deposits at December 31, 2016.2023 totaled $2.52 billion, or 24.5% of deposits. Our total estimated uninsured deposits, including collateralized deposits as of December 31, 2023 was $5.16 billion. Within time deposits, $100.0 million or 9.1% was uninsured as of December 31, 2023.
Borrowed funds increased $129.8$632.7 million or 8.0%, during the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, to $1.74 billion, as wholesale funds, combined with net deposit inflows, were used$1.97 billion. The increase in borrowings was largely due to fund the Company's asset growth.funding requirements. Borrowed funds represented 17.7%13.9% of total assets atas of December 31, 2017,2023, an increase from 17.0% at9.7% as of December 31, 2016.2022.

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Total stockholders’Stockholders’ equity increased $46.9$92.9 million or 3.7%, to $1.30 billion atduring the year ended December 31, 2017, from $1.252023 to $1.69 billion, at December 31, 2016. This increase resulted fromprimarily due to net income earned during the year of $93.9 million, the allocation of shares to stock-based compensation plans of $11.5 million, exercised stock options of $3.0 million, and the reissuance of shares for the dividend reinvestment program of $2.1 million,period and a decrease in unrealized losses on available for sale debt securities, partially offset by cash dividends paid to stockholders of $60.0 million, a $2.7 million other comprehensive loss and common stock repurchases of $1.2 million. Common stock repurchases forstockholders. For the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, common stock repurchases totaled 71,781 shares at an average cost of $23.28 per share, all of which were made in connection with withholding to cover income taxes on the vesting of stock-based compensation, totaled 45,123 shares at an average costcompensation. As of $27.08 per share. At December 31, 2017,2023, approximately 3.11.1 million shares remained eligible for repurchase under the current authorizations.stock repurchase authorization.
Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 20172023 and December 31, 20162022
General. Net income for the year ended December 31, 20172023 was $93.9$128.4 million, compared to $87.8$175.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Basic2022. For the year ended December 31, 2023, basic and diluted earnings per share were $1.46$1.72 and $1.45 for the year ended December 31, 2017,$1.71 per share, respectively, compared to basic and diluted earnings per share of $1.38$2.35, for 2016.the year ended December 31, 2022.
AsEarnings for the year ended December 31, 2023 was largely impacted by a resultdecrease in net interest income, primarily attributable to a decrease in lower-costing deposits and an increase in borrowings, combined with unfavorable repricing of both deposits and borrowings, in addition to increased provisions for credit losses primarily due to a worsened economic forecast compared to the enactment of the Tax Act on December 22, 2017, the Company recognized additional tax expense of $3.9prior year. Transaction costs related to our pending merger with Lakeland totaled $7.8 million, for the year ended December 31, 2017. Offsetting2023, compared with transaction costs of $4.1 million for the effect of the change in tax law,respective 2022 period. In addition, prior year earnings for the year ended December 31, 2017 were favorably impacted by year-over-year growth in average loans outstanding, growth in both average non-interest bearing and interest bearing core deposits and expansion2022, included an $8.6 million gain on the sale of the net interest margin. The improvement in the net interest margin was driven by the upward repricing of adjustable rate assets and relatively stable cost of funds.a foreclosed property.
Net Interest Income. Net interest income increased $19.6decreased $18.1 million to $278.2$399.5 million for 2017,2023, from $258.6$417.6 million for 2016.2022. The average interest rate spread increased ninedecreased 59 basis points to 3.07%2.63% for 2017,2023, from 2.98%3.22% for 2016.2022. The net interest margin increased tendecreased 21 basis points to 3.21%3.16% for 2017,2023, compared to 3.11%3.37% for 2016.2022. The decrease in net interest income for the year ended December 31, 2023, was primarily due to a decrease in lower-costing deposits and an increase in borrowings, combined with unfavorable repricing of both deposits and borrowings, partially offset by originations of new loans and the favorable repricing of adjustable-rate loans. For the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, fees related to the increase in net interest income was largely dueforgiveness of PPP loans decreased $1.4 million to growth in average loans outstanding, growth in average core deposits, and expansion in$7,000, compared to $1.4 million for the net interest margin.year ended December 31, 2022.
Interest income increased $21.5$149.6 million or 7.1%, to $323.8$615.8 million for 2017,2023, compared to $302.3$466.2 million for 2016.2022. The increase in interest income was attributableprimarily driven by the favorable repricing of adjustable-rate loans and an increase in rates on new loan originations. Average interest-earning assets increased $224.4 million to an$12.64 billion for 2023, compared to $12.41 billion for 2022. The increase in average earning asset balances and anassets was primarily due to a $568.8 million increase in the yield on average interest-earning assets. Average interest-earning assets increased $343.1 million, or 4.1%, to $8.65 billion for 2017, compared to $8.31 billion for 2016. The average outstanding loan balances increased $301.7 million, or 4.5%, to $6.97$10.37 billion for 2017 from $6.67 billion for 2016, the2023, which was largely attributable to commercial loan originations, partially offset by a $230.5 million decrease in average balance of securities available for sale increased $35.8 million, or 3.5%, to $1.04 billion for 2017, compared to $1.01 billion for 2016, and the average balance of investment securities held to maturity increased $8.7 million, or 1.8%, to $487.6 million for 2017, compared to $478.9 million for 2016.debt securities. The yield on interest-earning assets increased ten111 basis points to 3.74%4.87% for 2017,2023, from 3.64%3.76% for 2016, mainly due2022. The weighted average yield on total loans increased 111 basis points to increases in5.37% for 2023 and the weighted average yieldsyield on total loans, FHLBNY stock and the securities available for sale portfolio.debt securities increased 58 basis points to 2.33% for 2023, from 1.75% for 2022. The weighted average yield on FHLBNY stock increased to 7.47% for 2023, compared to 4.71% for 2022.
Interest expense increased $1.9$167.7 million or 4.3%, to $45.6$216.4 million for 2017,2023, from $43.7$48.6 million for 2016.2022. The increase in interest expense was primarily attributable to an increase in averagethe cost of interest-bearing deposits for the year, which combinedliabilities, along with an increase in non-interest bearing deposits largely funded the growth in average interest-earning assets. The increase in interest expense was partially offset by a shift in the funding composition to lower-costing core deposits from time deposits and borrowings.interest-bearing liabilities. The average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities increased one170 basis pointpoints to 0.67%2.24% for 2017,2023, compared to 2016.2022. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits increased four152 basis points to 0.37%1.99% for 2017,2023, from 0.33%0.47% for 2016.2022. The average rate paid on borrowings decreased fourincreased 218 basis points to 1.66%3.41% for 2017,2023, from 1.70%1.23% for 2016.2022. The average balance of interest-bearing liabilities increased $154.2$646.3 million to $6.81$9.67 billion for 2017,2023, compared to $6.66$9.03 billion for 2016.2022. Average outstanding borrowings increased $880.3 million to $1.64 billion for 2023, compared to 2022. Average non-interest bearing demand deposits increased $421.0 million to $2.33 billion for 2023, from $2.75 billion for 2022. Average interest-bearing deposits increased $149.6decreased $234.2 million or 2.9%, to $5.23$8.02 billion for 2017,2023, from $5.08$8.26 billion for 2016.2022. Within average interest-bearing deposits, average interest-bearing core deposits increased $226.2decreased $539.0 million or 5.2%to $7.03 billion for 2017, compared with 2016,2023, while average time deposits decreased $76.6increased $304.8 million or 10.6%to $994.9 million for 2017, compared with 2016. Average non-interest bearing demand deposits increased $123.1 million, or 9.9%, to $1.37 billion for 2017, from $1.24 billion for 2016. Average outstanding borrowings decreased $4.7 million, or 0.3%, to $1.58 billion for 2017, compared to 2016.2023.
Provision for LoanCredit Losses. Provisions for loancredit losses are charged to operations in order to maintain the allowance for loancredit losses at a level management considers necessary to absorb probableprojected credit losses inherentthat may arise over the expected term of each loan in the loan portfolio. In determining the level of the allowance for loancredit losses, management considersestimates the allowance balance using relevant available information from internal and external sources relating to past events, current conditions and current loss experience, evaluations of real estate collateral, current economic conditions, volumea reasonable and type of lending, adverse situations that may affect a borrower’s ability to repay the loan and the levels of non-performing and other classified loans.supportable forecast. The amount of the allowance is based on estimates, and the ultimate losses may vary from such estimates as more information becomes available or later events change. Management assesses the adequacy of the allowance for loancredit losses on a quarterly basis and makes provisions for loancredit losses, if necessary, in order to maintain the adequacyvaluation of the allowance. The Company’s emphasis on continued diversification of
For the loan portfolio throughyear ended December 31, 2023, the origination of commercial loans has been one of the more significant factors management has considered in evaluating


the allowance for loan losses andCompany recorded a $27.9 million provision for loancredit losses for the past several years. As the Company lookson loans, compared to further increase the amount of such types of loans in the portfolio, management may determine that additional or increased provisions for loan losses are necessary, which could adversely affect earnings.
Thea $8.4 million provision for 2022. The Company, for the year ended December 31, 2023, had net loan losses was $5.6 million in 2017, compared to $5.4 million in 2016. The increase in the provision for loan losses was primarily attributable to year-over-year growth in the loan portfolio. Net charge-offs for 2017 were $7.3
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of $8.1 million, compared to $4.9net charge-offs of $1.1 million for 2016.2022. Total charge-offs for the year ended December 31, 20172023 were $8.9$10.4 million, compared to $7.0$6.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.2022. Recoveries for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, were $1.7$2.3 million, compared to $2.0$5.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.2022. The allowanceincrease in the year-over-year provision for loancredit losses at December 31, 2017 was $60.2 million, or 0.82% of total loans, comparedprimarily attributable to $61.9 million, or 0.88% of total loans, at December 31, 2016. At December 31, 2017, non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans were 0.48%, compared to 0.61% at December 31, 2016. Non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets were 0.42% at December 31, 2017, compared to 0.53% at December 31, 2016. At December 31, 2017, non-performing loans were $34.9 million, compared to $42.4 million at December 31, 2016,worsened economic forecast and non-performing assets were $41.8 million at December 31, 2017, compared to $50.4 million at December 31, 2016.related deterioration in the projected commercial property price indices used in our CECL model.
Non-Interest Income. For the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, non-interest income totaled $55.7$79.8 million, an increasea decrease of $304,000,$8.0 million, compared to the same period in 2016. Income from Bank-owned life insurance increased $1.22022. Other income decreased $6.9 million to $6.7$7.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, compared to $14.2 million for the same period in 2016,2022, primarily due to an $8.6 million gain realized in the recognitionprior year on the sale of death benefit claims. Feea foreclosed commercial office property, partially offset by an increase in gains on sales of SBA loans. Additionally, fee income also increased $1.2decreased $3.7 million to $27.2$24.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, compared to the same period in 2016, largely2022, primarily due to a $657,000 increasedecrease in commercial loan prepayment fee income, a $397,000 increase in deposit related fee income and a $229,000 increase in merchant fee income, partially offset by a $218,000 decrease in income from non-deposit investment products and a $43,000 decrease in debit card revenue.fees. Partially offsetting these increasesdecreases in non-interest income, otherinsurance agency income decreased $2.1increased $2.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared with the same period in 2016, mainly due to a $910,000 decrease in net fees on loan-level interest rate swap transactions, a $583,000 decrease in net gains recognized on loan sales and a $335,000 non-recurring gain recognized on the sale of deposits resulting from a strategic branch divestiture in the prior year.
Non-Interest Expense. Non-interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $187.8 million, an increase of $4.0 million from the year ended December 31, 2016. Compensation and benefits expense increased $3.2 million to $109.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $106.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was primarily due to additional salary expense related to annual merit increases, an increase in the accrual for incentive compensation and an increase in stock-based compensation, partially offset by a decrease in retirement benefit costs. Other operating expenses increased $1.2 million to $28.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $27.6 million for the same period in 2016, largely due to increases in consulting and debit card maintenance expenses, partially offset by a decrease in loan collection expense. Data processing costs increased $694,000 to $13.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, compared withto $11.4 million for the same period in 2016,2022, largely due to increases in retention revenue and new business activity. BOLI income increased software maintenance and telecommunication costs. Net occupancy costs increased $437,000,$494,000 to $25.3$6.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, compared to the same period in 2016, resulting from an increase in snow removal costs, combined with an increase in facilities maintenance costs. Partially offsetting these increases in non-interest expense, FDIC insurance expense decreased $1.0 million to $3.9 million for year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $4.9 million for the same period in 2016. This decrease was primarily2022, largely due to the FDIC's reduction of assessment rates for depository institutions with less than $10.0 billiongreater equity valuations, partially offset by a decrease in assets, which became effective in the quarter ended September 30, 2016. Additionally, amortization of intangibles decreased $721,000benefit claims recognized.
Non-Interest Expense.Non-interest expense totaled $275.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, an increase of $18.8 million, compared to $256.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. Other operating expense increased $8.5 million to $47.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $38.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase in other operating expenses was largely due to a $3.0 million charge for contingent litigation reserves, combined with a $2.0 million write-down of a foreclosed property and an increase in professional fees. Merger-related expense increased $3.7 million to $7.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to 2022. The Company recorded a $264,000 provision for credit losses for off-balance sheet credit exposures, compared to a $3.4 million negative provision last year. The $3.6 million increase in the provision for credit losses for off-balance sheet credit exposures for the year was primarily due to a period over period decrease in line of credit utilization, combined with a period over period increase in loans approved and awaiting closing. FDIC insurance expense increased $3.4 million to $8.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $5.2 million for the trailing year, primarily due to an increase in the assessment rate and the FDIC special assessment. Data processing expense increased $1.3 million to $23.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, mainly due to an increase in software service and core processing expenses. Compensation and benefits expense increased $1.3 million to $148.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $147.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, primarily due to increases in salary expense, employee medical benefits and post-retirement benefit expense, partially offset by decreases in the accrual for incentive compensation and stock-based compensation. Partially offsetting these increases, net occupancy expense decreased $2.3 million to $32.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the same period in 2016, as a result of scheduled reductions2022, mainly due to decreases in amortization.depreciation and maintenance expenses.
Income Tax Expense. For the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, the Company’sCompany's income tax expense was $46.5$47.4 million compared with $37.0 million, for the same period in 2016. The Company’san effective tax rate was 33.1%of 27.0%, compared with $64.5 million with an effective tax rate of 26.8% for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared with 29.6%2022. The decrease in tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2016. For2023, compared with the same period last year ended December 31, 2017,was largely the increasesresult of a decrease in income tax expense and the effective tax rate were a function of growth in pre-tax income and the enactment of the Tax Act, which resulted in additional tax expense of $3.9 million.taxable income.
Comparison of Operating Results for the Years Ended December 31, 20162022 and December 31, 20152021
General. Net income for the year ended December 31, 20162022 was $87.8$175.6 million, compared to $83.7$167.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.2021. Basic and diluted earnings per share were $1.38 for the year ended December 31, 2016,$2.35 per share, compared to basic and diluted earnings per share of $1.33$2.20 and $2.19, respectively, for 2015. the year ended December 31, 2021.
Earnings for the year ended December 31, 2022 were impacted by $4.1 million of non-tax deductible transaction costs related to the pending merger with Lakeland that was announced on September 27, 2022. The Company recorded an $8.4 million provision for the year ended December 31, 2022, compared to a $24.3 million negative provision for credit losses for 2022.
Net Interest Income. Net interest income increased $51.5 million to $417.6 million for 2022, from $366.0 million for 2021. The interest rate spread increased 33 basis points to 3.22% for 2022, from 2.89% for 2021. The net interest margin increased 37 basis points to 3.37% for 2022, compared to 3.00% for 2021. The increase in net interest income for the year ended December 31, 20162022, was favorably impactedprimarily driven by year-over-yearthe favorable repricing of adjustable-rate loans and an increase in rates on new loan originations. Net interest income was further enhanced by increases in available for sale debt securities and total loans outstanding, along with growth in average loans outstanding resulting from organic originations,lower-costing core and increases in both average interest bearing core deposits and average non-interest bearing demand deposits,deposits. This was partially offset by compressiona reduction in fees related to the net interest margin. The growth in average core deposits mitigated the Company's need to utilize higher-cost borrowings to fund loan growth.


Net Interest Income. Net interest income increased $8.7 million to $258.6 million for 2016, from $249.9 million for 2015. The average interest rate spread decreased nine basis points to 2.98% for 2016, from 3.07% for 2015. The net interest margin decreased nine basis points to 3.11% for 2016, compared to 3.20% for 2015.forgiveness of PPP loans. For the year ended December 31, 2016, net interest income was favorably impacted by2022, fees related to the growth in averageforgiveness of PPP loans outstanding and growth in average core deposits, mitigatingdecreased $9.9 million to $1.4 million, compared to $11.3 million for the effects of compression in the net interest margin.year ended December 31, 2021.
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Interest income increased $10.5$63.8 million or 3.6%, to $302.3$466.2 million for 2016,2022, compared to $291.8$402.3 million for 2015.2021. The increase in interest income was attributableprimarily driven by the favorable repricing of adjustable-rate loans and an increase in rates on new loan originations. Average interest-earning assets increased $231.8 million to an$12.41 billion for 2022, compared to $12.18 billion for 2021. The increase in average earning asset balances, partially offset byassets was primarily due to a decrease$242.1 million increase in the yield on average interest-earning assets. Average interest-earning assets increased $490.9 million, or 6.3%, to $8.31 billion for 2016, compared to $7.82 billion for 2015. The average outstanding loan balances increased $454.4 million, or 7.3%, to $6.67$9.80 billion for 2016 from $6.22 billion for 2015, the average balance of securities available for sale decreased $20.3 million, or 2.0%,2022, which was largely attributable to $1.01 billion for 2016, compared to $1.03 billion for 2015, and the average balance of investment securities held to maturity increased $5.5 million, or 1.2%, to $478.9 million for 2016, compared to $473.4 million for 2015.commercial loan originations. The yield on interest-earning assets decreased nineincreased 46 basis points to 3.64%3.76% for 2016,2022, from 3.73%3.30% for 2015, due to a reduction in both the2021. The weighted average yield on total loans and securities availableincreased 44 basis points to 4.26% for sale, partially offset by an increase in2022 and the weighted average yield on available for sale debt securities increased 35 basis points to 1.75% for 2022, from 1.40% for 2021. The weighted average yield on FHLBNY stock.stock decreased to 4.71% for 2022, compared to 5.48% for 2021.
Interest expense increased $1.8$12.3 million or 4.4%, to $43.7$48.6 million for 2016,2022, from $41.9$36.3 million for 2015.2021. The increase in interest expense was primarily attributable to an increase in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities, along with an increase in average interest-bearing deposits for the year, which largely funded the growth in average interest-earning assets. The increase in interest expense was partially offset by a shift in the funding composition to lower-costing core deposits from time deposits and borrowings.liabilities. The average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities remained unchanged at 0.66%increased 13 basis points to 0.54% for 2016,2022, compared to 2015.2021. The average rate paid on interest-bearing deposits increased two14 basis points to 0.47% for 2022, from 0.33% for 2016, from 0.31% for 2015.2021. The average rate paid on borrowings decreased oneincreased 14 basis pointpoints to 1.70%1.23% for 2016,2022, from 1.71%1.09% for 2015.2021. The average balance of interest-bearing liabilities increased $327.4$133.7 million to $6.66$9.03 billion for 2016,2022, compared to $6.33$8.89 billion for 2015.2021. Average interest-bearing deposits increased $354.1$181.7 million or 7.5%, to $5.08$8.26 billion for 2016,2022, from $4.72$8.08 billion for 2015.2021. Within average interest-bearing deposits, average interest-bearing core deposits increased $412.5$359.7 million or 10.5%,to $7.57 billion for 2016,2022, compared with 2015, while average time deposits decreased $58.4 million, or 7.5%, for 2016, compared with 2015.2021. Average non-interest bearing demand deposits increased $125.9$206.3 million or 11.3%, to $1.24$2.75 billion for 2016,2022, from $1.12$2.54 billion for 2015.2021. Average outstanding borrowings decreased $26.7$33.6 million or 1.7%, to $1.58 billion$756.3 million for 2016,2022, compared with $1.60 billionto 2021. Average outstanding subordinated debentures decreased $14.4 million to $10.4 million for 2015.2022, compared to 2021.
Provision for Loan Losses.Credit Losses. Provisions for credit losses are charged to operations in order to maintain the allowance for credit losses at a level management considers necessary to absorb projected credit losses that may arise over the expected term of each loan in the portfolio. In determining the level of the allowance for credit losses, management estimates the allowance balance using relevant available information from internal and external sources relating to past events, current conditions and a reasonable and supportable forecast. The amount of the allowance is based on estimates, and the ultimate losses may vary from such estimates as more information becomes available or later events change. Management assesses the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses on a quarterly basis and makes provisions for credit losses, if necessary, in order to maintain the valuation of the allowance.
For the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded an $8.4 million provision for loancredit losses was $5.4 million in 2016,on loans, compared to $4.4a $24.3 million in 2015. The increase in thenegative provision for 2021. The Company, for the year ended December 31, 2022, had net loan losses was primarily attributable to year-over-year growth in the loan portfolio. Net charge-offs for 2016 were $4.9of $1.1 million, compared to $4.7net recoveries of $3.6 million for 2015.2021. Total charge-offs for the year ended December 31, 20162022 were $7.0$6.5 million, compared to $8.8$5.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.2021. Recoveries for the year ended December 31, 2016,2022, were $2.0$5.4 million, compared to $4.2$9.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.2021. The allowanceincrease in the year-over-year provision for loancredit losses at December 31, 2016 was $61.9 million, or 0.88%largely a function of the significant favorable impact of the post-pandemic recovery resulting in a large negative provision taken in the prior year and an increase in total loans compared to $61.4 million, or 0.94% of total loans, at December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2016, non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans were 0.61%, compared to 0.68% at December 31, 2015. Non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets were 0.53% at December 31, 2016, compared to 0.62% at December 31, 2015. At December 31, 2016, non-performing loans were $42.4 million, compared to $44.5 million at December 31, 2015, and non-performing assets were $50.4 million at December 31, 2016, compared to $55.1 million at December 31, 2015.outstanding.
Non-Interest Income. For the year ended December 31, 2016,2022, non-interest income totaled $55.4$87.8 million, an increase of $171,000,$980,000, compared to the same period in 2015. Wealth management2021. Other income increased $718,000$6.5 million to $17.6$14.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, largely2022, compared to $7.7 million for the same period in 2021, primarily due to an $8.6 million gain realized on the sale of a foreclosed commercial office property and an increase in fees on loan-level interest rate swap transactions, partially offset by income recognized from assets under management acquireda $3.4 million reduction in the MDE acquisition, which closed on April 1, 2015. This increase in wealth management income was offset in partcontingent consideration related to the earn-out provisions of the 2019 purchase of Tirschwell & Loewy, Inc. by a reduction in income associated with the licensing of indices to exchange traded fund ("ETF") providers, along with a shiftBeacon Trust Company, recorded in the mix of assets under management which negatively impacted fees earned. Also contributing to the increase in non-interest income, otherprior year. Insurance agency income increased $153,000$1.2 million to $11.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2016,2022, compared withto $10.2 million for the same period in 2015, primarily2021, largely due to a $1.2 million increaseincreases in net gains recognized on loan salescontingent commissions, retention revenue and a $335,000 gain recognized on the sale of deposits resulting from a strategic branch divestiture, largely offset by a $1.4 million decrease in net fees on loan-level interest rate swap transactions.new business activity. Partially offsetting these increases in non-interest income, net gains on securities transactions and feewealth management income decreased $590,000 and $235,000, respectively,$2.9 million to $27.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016,2022, compared to the same period in 2015. The2021, primarily due to a decrease in feethe market value of assets under management, partially offset by new business generation. BOLI income wasdecreased $1.9 million to $6.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, compared to the same period in 2021, largely due to a $1.4decrease in benefit claims recognized and lower equity valuations. Additionally, fee income decreased $1.8 million to $28.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, compared to the same period in 2021, primarily due to a decrease in debit card revenue, which was curtailed by the application of the Durbin amendment to the Company's operations beginning July 1, 2021 and a decrease in commercial loan prepayment fees, partially offset by an increase in deposit related fees.
Non-Interest Expense.Non-interest expense totaled $256.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, an increase of $6.8 million, compared to $250.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. Other operating expense increased $4.4 million to $43.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, compared to $38.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, primarily due to $4.1 million of transaction costs related to the pending merger with Lakeland. Compensation and
67


benefits expense increased $3.8 million to $147.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, compared to $143.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, primarily due to increases in stock-based compensation and salary expense, partially offset by a decrease in the accrual for incentive compensation. Data processing expense increased $2.0 million to $21.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, mainly due to an increase in software subscription and maintenance expenses. Additionally, net occupancy expense increased $1.6 million to $34.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, compared to the same period in 2021, mainly due to increases in rent, depreciation and maintenance expenses, a portion of which were attributable to the Company's new administrative offices. Partially offsetting these increases, the Company recorded a $3.4 million negative provision for credit losses for off-balance sheet credit exposures, compared to a $1.5 million provision last year. The $4.9 million decrease in prepayment fees on commercialthe provision for credit losses for off-balance sheet credit exposures for the year was primarily due to an increase in line of credit utilization, combined with a decrease in loans partially offset by increasesapproved and awaiting closing.
Income Tax Expense. For the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company's income tax expense was $64.5 million with an effective tax rate of $708,000 and $529,00026.8%, compared with $59.2 million with an effective tax rate of 26.1% for the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase in deposit fees and loan related fee income, respectively.
Non-Interest Expense. Non-interesttax expense for the year ended December 31, 20162022, compared with the same period last year was $183.8 million,largely the result of an increase of $3.2 million fromin taxable income, while the year ended December 31, 2015. Compensation and benefits expense increased $6.5 million to $106.1 millionincrease in the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to $99.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. This increase was primarily due to additional salary expense associated with annual merit increases, an increase in the accrual for annual incentive compensation, increased salary expense associated with new employees from MDE, and an increase in employee medical and


retirement benefit costs. Data processing costs increased $530,000 to $13.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016,2022, compared with the same period in 2015, principally due to increased software maintenance and core processing costs. Partially offsetting these increases in non-interest expense, net occupancy costs decreased $1.2 million, to $24.9 million for theprior year ended December 31, 2016, compared to the same period in 2015, principally due to a decrease in seasonal expenses resulting from a milder winter, combined with decreases in facilities and equipment maintenance expenses. Other operating expenses decreased $1.2 million to $27.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to $28.8 million for the same period in 2015,was largely due to $413,000non-deductible merger related transaction costs of non-recurring professional services costs associated with$4.1 million in the MDE transaction for the year ended December 31, 2015, combined with decreases in printing expense, business development costs and decreases in foreclosed real estate and non-performing asset-related expenses. The amortization of intangibles decreased $675,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016, compared with the same period in 2015, as a result of scheduled reductions in amortization. Additionally, advertising and promotion expenses decreased $541,000 to $3.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to $4.2 million for the same period in 2015, largely due to the Company's shift from higher-costing traditional print advertising to digital media.current year.
Income Tax Expense. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company’s income tax expense was $37.0 million, compared with $36.4 million, for the same period in 2015. The Company’s effective tax rate was 29.6% for the year ended December 31, 2016, compared with 30.3% for the year ended December 31, 2015. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the increases in income tax expense was a function of growth in pre-tax income. In the third quarter of 2016, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU”) No. 2016-09, "Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718)." The adoption of this ASU resulted in a $158,000 decrease in income tax expense.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity refers to the Company’s ability to generate adequate amounts of cash to meet financial obligations to its depositors, to fund loans and securities purchases deposit outflows and operating expenses. Sources of funds include scheduled amortization of loans, loan prepayments, scheduled maturities of unpledged investments, cash flows from mortgage-backed securities and the ability to borrow funds from the FHLBNY, FRBNY and approved broker-dealers.
Cash flows from loan payments and maturing investment securities are fairly predictable sources of funds. Changes in interest rates, local economic conditions and the competitive marketplace can influence loan prepayments, prepayments on mortgage-backed securities and deposit flows. For each of the years ended December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, loan repayments totaled $3.34$2.68 billion and $2.62$3.24 billion, respectively.
As deposits have declined, the Company has continued to monitor and focus on depositor behavior and borrowing capacity with the FHLBNY and FRBNY, with current borrowing capacity of $1.48 billion and $1.22 billion, respectively as of December 31, 2023. Our estimated uninsured and uncollateralized deposits at December 31, 2023 totaled $2.52 billion, or 24.5% of deposits. Our total estimated uninsured deposits, including collateralized deposits as of December 31, 2023 was $5.16 billion.
Commercial real estate loans, multi-family loans, commercial loans, one- to four-family residential loans and consumer loans are the primary investments of the Company. Purchasing securities for the investment portfolio is a secondary use of funds and the investment portfolio is structured to complement and facilitate the Company’s lending activities and ensure adequate liquidity. Loan originations and purchases totaled $3.70$3.34 billion for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, compared to $3.12$3.95 billion for the year ended December 31, 2016.2022. Purchases for the investment portfolio totaled $276.3$57.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, compared to $386.5$317.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. At2022. As of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank had outstanding loan commitments to borrowers of $1.98$2.09 billion, including undisbursed home equity lines and personal credit lines of $270.9$273.0 million.
Total deposits increased $160.5decreased $270.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.2023. Deposit activity is affected by changes in interest rates, competitive pricing and product offerings in the marketplace, local economic conditions, customer confidence and other factors such as stock market volatility. Certificate of deposit accounts that are scheduled to mature within one year totaled $424.4 million at$1.02 billion as of December 31, 2017.2023. Based on its current pricing strategy and customer retention experience, the Bank expects to retain a significant share of these accounts. The Bank manages liquidity on a daily basis and expects to have sufficient cash to meet all of its funding requirements.
As of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank exceeded all minimum regulatory capital requirements. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank’s leverage (Tier 1) capital ratio was 9.07%9.84%. FDIC regulations require banks to maintain a minimum leverage ratio of Tier 1 capital to adjusted total assets of 4.00%. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank’s total risk-based capital ratio was 11.95%. Under current regulations, the minimum required ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets is 9.25%. A bank is considered to be well-capitalized if it has a leverage (Tier 1) capital ratio of at least 5.00% and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10.00%.


Off-Balance Sheet and Contractual Obligations
Off-balance sheet and contractual obligations as of December 31, 2017, are summarized below: The total capital to risk-weighted assets requirement, taking into account the capital conservation buffer, is 10.50%.
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 Payments Due by Period
 (In thousands)
 Total 
Less than
1 year
 1-3 years 3-5 years 
More than
5 years
Off-Balance Sheet:         
Long-term commitments$1,948,279
 $593,759
 $653,263
 $317,893
 $383,364
Letters of credit27,953
 25,053
 2,583
 317
 
Total Off-Balance Sheet1,976,232
 618,812
 655,846
 318,210
 383,364
Contractual Obligations:         
Operating leases45,333
 8,032
 14,491
 8,232
 14,578
Certificate of deposits634,809
 424,448
 150,280
 56,530
 3,551
Total Contractual Obligations680,142
 432,480
 164,771
 64,762
 18,129
Total$2,656,374
 $1,051,292
 $820,617
 $382,972
 $401,493

Off-balance sheet commitments consist of unused commitments to borrowers for term loans, unused lines of credit and outstanding letters of credit. Total off-balance sheet obligations were $1.98$2.09 billion atas of December 31, 2017,2023, an increase of $145.1$32.4 million, or 7.9%, from $1.83$2.06 billion atas of December 31, 2016, largely due to an increase in commercial lines of credit.2022.
Contractual obligations consist of operating leases and certificate of deposit liabilities. Total certificate of deposits as of December 31, 2023 were $1.10 billion, an increase of $344.5 million, compared to $751.4 million as of December 31, 2022. There were no securitiessecurity purchases in 20172023 and 20162022 which will be or were settled in 2018January 2024 or January 2023, respectively.

Item 7A.    Quantitative and 2017, respectively. Total contractual obligations at December 31, 2017 were $680.1 million, a decrease of $4.9 million, or 0.72%, compared to $685.1 million at December 31, 2016. Contractual obligations under operating leases increased $11.4 million, or 33.78%, to $45.3 million at December 31, 2017, from $33.9 million at December 31, 2016, and certificate of deposit accounts decreased $16.4 million, or 2.5%, to $634.8 million at December 31, 2017, from $651.2 million at December 31, 2016.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Item 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Qualitative Analysis. Interest rate risk is the exposure of a bank’s current and future earnings and capital arising from adverse movementsto changes in interest rates. The guidelines of the Company’s interest rate risk policy seek to limit the exposure to changes in interest rates that affect the underlying economic value of assets and liabilities, earnings and capital. To minimize interest rate risk, the Company generally sells all 20- and 30-year fixed-rate residential mortgage loans at origination. The Company retains residential fixed rate mortgages with terms of 15 years or less and biweekly payment residential mortgages with a term of 30 years or less. Commercial real estate loans generally have interest rates that reset in five years, and other commercial loans such as construction loans and commercial lines of credit reset with changes in the Prime rate, the Federal Funds rate, LIBOR or LIBOR.SOFR. Investment securities purchases generally have maturities of five years or less, and mortgage-backed securities have weighted average lives between three and five years.
The Asset/Liability Committee meets on at least a monthly, basisor more often as needed, to review the impact of interest rate changes on net interest income, net interest margin, net income and the economic value of equity. The Asset/Liability Committee reviews a variety of strategies that project changes in asset or liability mix and the impact of those changes on projected net interest income, net income and net income.the economic value of equity.
The Company’s strategy for liabilities has been to maintain a stable core-funding base by focusing on core deposit account acquisition and increasing products and services per household. Certificate of deposit accounts as a percentage of total deposits were 9.5% at10.6% as of December 31, 2017,2023, compared to 9.9% at7.1% as of December 31, 2016.2022. Certificate of deposit accounts are generally short-term. As of December 31, 2017, 66.9%2023, 93.1% of all certificates of deposit had maturities of one year or less compared to 67.4% at77.7% as of December 31, 2016.2022. The Company’s ability to retain maturing time deposit accounts is the result of its strategy to remain competitively priced within its marketplace. The Company’s pricing strategy may vary depending upon current funding needs and the ability of the Company to fund operations through alternative sources, primarily by accessing short-term lines of credit with the FHLBNY during periods of pricing dislocation.
Quantitative Analysis.Current and future sensitivity to changes in interest rates are measured through the use of balance sheet and income simulation models. The analysis capturesestimates changes in net interest income using flat rates as a base, a most likely rate forecast and rising and declining interest rate forecasts. Changes in net interest income and net income for the forecast period, generally twelve to twenty-four months, are measured and compared to policy limits for acceptable change. The Company periodically reviews historical deposit re-pricing activity and makes modifications to certain assumptions used in its income


simulation model regarding the interest rate sensitivity of deposits without maturity dates. These modifications are made to reflect more closely reflect the most likely results under the various interest rate change scenarios. Since it is inherently difficult to predict the sensitivity of interest bearing deposits to changes in interest rates, the changes in net interest income due to changes in interest rates cannot be precisely predicted. There are a variety of reasons that may cause actual results to vary considerably from the predictions presented below which include, but are not limited to, the timing, magnitude, and frequency of changes in interest rates, interest rate spreads, prepayments, and actions taken in response to such changes. Specific assumptions used in the simulation model include:
Parallel yield curve shifts for market rates;
Current asset and liability spreads to market interest rates are fixed;
Traditional savings and interest bearinginterest-bearing demand accounts move at 10% of the rate ramp in either direction;
Retail Money Market and Business Money Market accounts move at 25% and 75% of the rate ramp in either direction, respectively; and
Higher-balance demand deposit tiers and promotional demand accounts move at 50% to 75% of the rate ramp in either direction.
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The following table sets forth the results of the twelve month projected net interest income model as of December 31, 2017.
Change in
Interest Rates in
Basis Points
(Rate Ramp)
 Net Interest Income
Amount ($) Change ($) Change (%)
(Dollars in thousands)
-100 293,501
 (1,733) (0.6)
Static 295,234
 
 
+100 292,527
 (2,707) (0.9)
+200 288,748
 (6,486) (2.2)
+300 284,077
 (11,157) (3.8)

2023.
Change in Interest Rates in Basis Points - (Rate Ramp)Net Interest Income
Amount Change Percent Change
(Dollars in thousands)
-300$382,222 $(10,274)(2.6)%
-200385,863 (6,633)(1.7)
-100388,948 (3,548)(0.9)
Static392,496 — — 
+100394,098 1,602 0.4 
The aboveinterest rate risk position of the Company remains slightly asset sensitive. The preceding table indicates that, as of December 31, 2017,2023, in the event of a 300100 basis point increase in interest rates, whereby rates ramp up evenly over a twelve-month period, the Companythere would experiencebe a 3.8%,0.4% or $11.2$1.6 million decrease inincrease to net interest income. In the event of a 100300 basis point decrease in interest rates, whereby rates ramp down evenly over a twelve-month period, the Company would experience a 0.6%2.6%, or $1.7$10.3 million decrease in net interest income. In this downward rate scenario, rates on deposits have a repricing floor of zero.
Another measure of interest rate sensitivity is to model changes in economic value of equity through the use of immediate and sustained interest rate shocks. The following table illustrates the economic value of equity model results as of December 31, 2017.2023.
Change in
Interest Rates
 Present Value of Equity 
Present Value of Equity
as Percent of Present
Value of Assets
Dollar
Amount
 
Dollar
Change
 
Percent
Change
 
Present Value
Ratio
 
Percent
Change
(Basis Points) (Dollars in thousands)    
-100 1,430,118
 (27,259) (1.9) 14.3 (4.0)
Flat 1,457,377
 
 
 14.9 
+100 1,397,108
 (60,269) (4.1) 14.7 (1.7)
+200 1,328,875
 (128,502) (8.8) 14.3 (4.1)
+300 1,266,400
 (190,977) (13.1) 14.0 (6.4)

Change in Interest Rates in Basis PointsPresent Value of Equity
Present Value of Equity
as Percent of Present
Value of Assets

Amount

Change
Percent
Change
Present Value
Ratio
Percent
Change
(Dollars in thousands)  
-300$1,423,320 $(315,089)(18.1)%9.7 %(24.0)%
-2001,563,756 (174,653)(10.0)11.0 (14.4)
-1001,669,286 (69,123)(4.0)12.0 (6.4)
Flat1,738,409 — — 12.8 — 
+1001,759,732 21,323 1.2 13.3 3.8 
The preceding table indicates that as of December 31, 2017,2023, in the event of an immediate and sustained 300100 basis point increase in interest rates, the Company would experience a 13.1%1.2%, or $191.0$21.3 million reductionincrease in the present value of equity. If rates were to decrease 100300 basis points, the Company would experience a 1.9%, or $27.3 million decrease in the present value of equity.equity would decrease 18.1% or $315.1 million.
Certain shortcomings are inherent in the methodologies used in the above interest rate risk measurements. Modeling changes in net interest income requires the use of certain assumptions regarding prepayment and deposit decay rates, which may or may not reflect the manner in which actual yieldsfuture loan prepayment and costs respond to changes in market interest rates.deposit withdrawal activity. While management believes such assumptions are reasonable, there can be no assurance that assumed prepayment rates and decay rates will approximate actual


future loan prepayment and deposit withdrawal activity. Moreover, the net interest income table presented assumes that the composition of interest sensitive assets and liabilities existing at the beginning of a period remains constant over the period being measured and also assumes that a particular change in interest rates is reflected uniformly across the yield curve regardless of the duration to maturity or repricing of specific assets and liabilities. Accordingly, although the net interest income table provides an indication of the Company’s interest rate risk exposure at a particular point in time, such measurement is not intended to and does not provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes in market interest rates on the Company’s net interest income and will differ from actual results.

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Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data



Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

The following are included in this item:
(A)Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
(B)Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
(C)Consolidated Financial Statements:
(1)
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2017 and 2016
A.Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
B.Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
C.Consolidated Financial Statements:
(1)    Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2023 and 2022
(2)    Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021
(3)    Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021
(4)    Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021
(5)    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021
(6)    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
D.Provident Financial Services, Inc., Condensed Financial Statements:
(1)    Condensed Statement of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2023 and 2022
(2)    Condensed Statement of Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021
(3)    Condensed Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021
(2)
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
(3)
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
(4)
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
(5)
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
(6)Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(D)Provident Financial Services, Inc., Condensed Financial Statements:
(1)
Condensed Statement of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2017 and 2016
(2)
Condensed Statement of Income for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
(3)
Condensed Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
The supplementary data required by this Item is provided in Note 1920 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

71




Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
TheTo the Stockholders and Board of Directors
Provident Financial Services, Inc.:
Opinion on the ConsolidatedFinancial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of Provident Financial Services, Inc. and subsidiary (the “Company”)Company) as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three‑yearthree-year period ended December 31, 2017,2023, and the related notes (collectively, the “consolidatedconsolidated financial statements”)statements). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three‑yearthree-year period ended December 31, 2017,2023, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”)(PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017,2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and our report dated March 1, 2018February 28, 2024 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Basis for Opinion
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of a critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Assessment of the allowance for credit losses on loans evaluated on a collective basis
As discussed in Notes 1 and 7 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s allowance for credit losses on loans evaluated on a collective basis (the collective ACL on loans) was $104.3 million of a total allowance for credit losses of $107.2 million as of December 31, 2023. The collective ACL on loans includes the measure of expected credit losses on a collective basis for loans that share similar risk characteristics. The Company uses a discounted cash flow methodology where the respective quantitative allowance for each loan segment is measured by comparing the present value of expected principal and interest cash flows projected using an econometric, probability of default (PD) and loss given default (LGD) modeling methodology to the amortized cost. Historical credit loss experience for both the Company and peers provides the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses, where observed credit losses are converted to probability of default rate curves using segment-specific loss given default risk factors that convert default rates to loss severity based on industry-level, observed relationships between the two variables for each segment. Using the historical relationship between the economic conditions and loan performance, management’s expectation of future loan performance is
72


incorporated using an externally developed economic forecast that is applied over a period that has been determined to be reasonable and supportable. After the reasonable and supportable forecast period, the Company reverts to the long-term average of selected economic factors on a straight-line basis over a reversion period. Contractual cash flows over the contractual life of the loans are the basis for modeled cash flows, adjusted for modeled defaults and expected prepayments and discounted at the loan-level effective interest rate. The Company considers qualitative adjustments to credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the quantitative component of the loss estimation process.
We identified the assessment of the collective ACL on loans as a critical audit matter. A high degree of audit effort, including specialized skills and knowledge, and subjective and complex auditor judgment was involved in the assessment of the collective ACL on loans due to significant measurement uncertainty. Specifically, the assessment encompassed the evaluation of the collective ACL on loans methodology, including the methods and models used to estimate (1) the PD and LGD and their significant assumptions, including the selected external economic forecast and macroeconomic factors, and (2) certain qualitative adjustments and their significant assumptions. The assessment also included an evaluation of the conceptual soundness of the PD and LGD models. In addition, auditor judgment was required to evaluate the sufficiency of audit evidence obtained.
The following are the primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter. We evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of certain internal controls related to the Company’s measurement of the collective ACL on loans estimate, including controls over the:
evaluation of the collective ACL on loans methodology
performance monitoring of the PD and LGD models
identification and determination of the significant assumptions used in the PD and LGD models
development of the qualitative adjustments, including the significant assumptions used in the measurement of the qualitative adjustments
analysis of the collective ACL on loan results, trends and ratios.
We evaluated the Company’s process to develop the collective ACL on loans estimate by testing certain sources of data and assumptions that the Company used and considered the relevance and reliability of such data and assumptions. In addition, we involved credit risk professionals with specialized skills and knowledge, who assisted in:
evaluating the Company’s collective ACL on loans methodology for compliance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles
evaluating judgments made by the Company relative to the development and performance monitoring of the PD and LGD models by comparing them to relevant Company-specific metrics and trends and the applicable industry and regulatory practices
assessing the conceptual soundness and design of the PD and LGD models by inspecting the Company’s model documentation to determine whether the models are suitable for their intended use
assessing the selected economic forecast and macroeconomic variables used by comparing it to the Company’s business environment and relevant industry practices
evaluating the methodology used to develop the qualitative adjustments and the effect of those adjustments on the collective ACL on loans compared with relevant credit risk factors and consistency with credit trends and identified limitations of the underlying quantitative model.
We also evaluated the cumulative results of the procedures performed to assess the sufficiency of the audit evidence obtained related to the collective ACL on loans by evaluating the:
cumulative results of the audit procedures
qualitative aspects of the Company’s accounting practices
potential bias in the accounting estimate.
/s/    KPMG LLP
We have not been able to determine the specific year that we began serving as the Company’s auditor; however, we are aware that we have served as the Company’s auditor since at least 1997.
Short Hills, New Jersey
March 1, 2018

February 28, 2024



73



Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm


TheTo the Stockholders and Board of Directors
Provident Financial Services, Inc.:
Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited Provident Financial Services, Inc. and subsidiary's (the “Company”)Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017,2023, based on criteria established inInternal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017,2023, based on criteria established inInternal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”)(PCAOB), the consolidated statements of financial condition of the Company as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2017,2023, and the related notes (collectively, the “consolidatedconsolidated financial statements”)statements), and our report dated March 1, 2018February 28, 2024 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’sManagement's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/    KPMG LLP
Short Hills, New Jersey
March 1, 2018

February 28, 2024


74



PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
December 31, 20172023 and 20162022
(Dollars in Thousands, except share data)
 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016
ASSETS   
Cash and due from banks$139,557
 $92,508
Short-term investments51,277
 51,789
Total cash and cash equivalents190,834
 144,297
Securities available for sale, at fair value1,037,812
 1,040,386
Investment securities held to maturity (fair value of $485,039 and $489,287 at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)477,652
 488,183
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock81,184
 75,726
Loans7,325,718
 7,003,486
Less allowance for loan losses60,195
 61,883
Net loans7,265,523
 6,941,603
Foreclosed assets, net6,864
 7,991
Banking premises and equipment, net63,185
 84,092
Accrued interest receivable29,646
 27,082
Intangible assets420,290
 422,937
Bank-owned life insurance189,525
 188,527
Other assets82,759
 79,641
Total assets$9,845,274
 $9,500,465
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
  
Deposits:
  
Demand deposits$4,996,345
 $4,803,426
Savings deposits1,083,012
 1,099,020
Certificates of deposit of $100,000 or more316,074
 290,295
Other time deposits318,735
 360,888
Total deposits6,714,166
 6,553,629
Mortgage escrow deposits25,933
 24,452
Borrowed funds1,742,514
 1,612,745
Other liabilities64,000
 57,858
Total liabilities8,546,613
 8,248,684
Stockholders’ Equity:
  
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, none issued
 
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 83,209,293 shares issued and 66,535,017 shares outstanding at December 31, 2017, and 83,209,293 shares issued and 66,082,283 shares outstanding at December 31, 2016, respectively832
 832
Additional paid-in capital1,012,908
 1,005,777
Retained earnings586,132
 550,768
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(7,465) (3,397)
Treasury stock(259,907) (264,221)
Unallocated common stock held by the Employee Stock Ownership Plan(33,839) (37,978)
Common stock acquired by the Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan(5,175) (5,846)
Deferred compensation—Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan5,175
 5,846
Total stockholders’ equity1,298,661
 1,251,781
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$9,845,274
 $9,500,465

December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks$180,241 $186,490 
Short-term investments14 18 
Total cash and cash equivalents180,255 186,508 
Available for sale debt securities, at fair value1,690,112 1,803,548 
Held to maturity debt securities, net (fair value of $352,601 and $373,468 as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively).363,080 387,923 
Equity securities, at fair value1,270 1,147 
Federal Home Loan Bank stock79,217 68,554 
Loans10,873,701 10,248,883 
Less allowance for credit losses107,200 88,023 
Net loans10,766,501 10,160,860 
Foreclosed assets, net11,651 2,124 
Banking premises and equipment, net70,998 79,794 
Accrued interest receivable58,966 51,903 
Intangible assets457,942 460,892 
Bank-owned life insurance243,050 239,040 
Other assets287,768 341,143 
Total assets$14,210,810 $13,783,436 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Deposits:
Demand deposits$8,020,889 $8,373,005 
Savings deposits1,175,683 1,438,583 
Certificates of deposit of $250 thousand or more218,549 108,176 
Other time deposits877,393 643,260 
Total deposits10,292,514 10,563,024 
Mortgage escrow deposits36,838 35,705 
Borrowed funds1,970,033 1,337,370 
Subordinated debentures10,695 10,493 
Other liabilities210,134 239,141 
Total liabilities12,520,214 12,185,733 
Stockholders’ Equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, none issued— — 
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 83,209,012 shares issued and 75,537,186 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023, and 75,169,196 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2022832 832 
Additional paid-in capital989,058 981,138 
Retained earnings974,542 918,158 
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax(141,115)(165,045)
Treasury stock(127,825)(127,154)
Unallocated common stock held by the Employee Stock Ownership Plan(4,896)(10,226)
Common stock acquired by deferred compensation plans(2,694)(3,427)
Deferred compensation plans2,694 3,427 
Total stockholders’ equity1,690,596 1,597,703 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$14,210,810 $13,783,436 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



75


PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Consolidated Statements of Income
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021
(Dollars in Thousands, except share data)
 Years ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
Interest income:     
Real estate secured loans$189,896
 $180,868
 $176,714
Commercial loans72,907
 63,022
 55,347
Consumer loans20,301
 21,829
 22,770
Securities available for sale and Federal Home Loan Bank stock26,445
 22,890
 23,398
Investment securities held to maturity13,027
 13,208
 13,494
Deposits, federal funds sold and other short-term investments1,270
 498
 58
Total interest income323,846
 302,315
 291,781
Interest expense:     
Deposits19,441
 16,947
 14,521
Borrowed funds26,203
 26,801
 27,380
Total interest expense45,644
 43,748
 41,901
Net interest income278,202
 258,567
 249,880
Provision for loan losses5,600
 5,400
 4,350
Net interest income after provision for loan losses272,602
 253,167
 245,530
Non-interest income:     
Fees27,218
 26,047
 26,282
Wealth management income17,604
 17,556
 16,838
Bank-owned life insurance6,693
 5,470
 5,345
Net gain on securities transactions57
 64
 654
Other income4,125
 6,256
 6,103
Total non-interest income55,697
 55,393
 55,222
Non-interest expense:     
Compensation and employee benefits109,353
 106,141
 99,689
Net occupancy expense25,290
 24,853
 26,032
Data processing expense13,922
 13,228
 12,698
FDIC Insurance3,887
 4,887
 5,036
Advertising and promotion expense3,904
 3,685
 4,226
Amortization of intangibles2,670
 3,391
 4,066
Other operating expenses28,796
 27,593
 28,842
Total non-interest expenses187,822
 183,778
 180,589
Income before income tax expense140,477
 124,782
 120,163
Income tax expense46,528
 36,980
 36,441
Net income$93,949
 $87,802
 $83,722
Basic earnings per share$1.46
 $1.38
 $1.33
Average basic shares outstanding64,384,851
 63,643,622
 62,945,669
Diluted earnings per share$1.45
 $1.38
 $1.33
Average diluted shares outstanding64,579,222
 63,851,986
 63,114,718
 Years ended December 31,
 202320222021
Interest and dividend income:
Real estate secured loans$408,942 $304,321 $252,336 
Commercial loans128,854 98,961 99,163 
Consumer loans18,439 14,368 13,574 
Available for sale debt securities and Federal Home Loan Bank stock46,790 36,619 23,798 
Held to maturity debt securities9,362 9,894 10,743 
Deposits, federal funds sold and other short-term investments3,433 2,018 2,725 
Total interest and dividend income615,820 466,181 402,339 
Interest expense:
Deposits159,459 38,704 26,513 
Borrowed funds55,856 9,310 8,614 
Subordinated debentures1,051 615 1,189 
Total interest expense216,366 48,629 36,316 
Net interest income399,454 417,552 366,023 
Provision charge (benefit) for credit losses27,904 8,388 (24,339)
Net interest income after provision for credit losses371,550 409,164 390,362 
Non-interest income:
Fees24,396 28,128 29,967 
Wealth management income27,669 27,870 30,756 
Insurance agency income13,934 11,440 10,216 
Bank-owned life insurance6,482 5,988 7,930 
Net gain on securities transactions30 181 255 
Other income7,318 14,182 7,685 
Total non-interest income79,829 87,789 86,809 
Non-interest expense:
Compensation and employee benefits148,497 147,203 143,366 
Net occupancy expense32,271 34,566 32,932 
Data processing expense22,993 21,729 19,755 
FDIC Insurance8,578 5,195 6,260 
Advertising and promotion expense4,822 5,191 3,951 
Credit loss expense (benefit) for off-balance sheet credit exposures264 (3,384)1,515 
Amortization of intangibles2,952 3,292 3,664 
Merger-related expenses7,826 4,128 — 
Other operating expenses47,397 38,927 38,610 
Total non-interest expense275,600 256,847 250,053 
Income before income tax expense175,779 240,106 227,118 
Income tax expense47,381 64,458 59,197 
Net income$128,398 $175,648 $167,921 
Basic earnings per share$1.72 $2.35 $2.20 
Average basic shares outstanding74,844,489 74,700,623 76,471,933 
Diluted earnings per share$1.71 $2.35 $2.19 
Average diluted shares outstanding74,873,256 74,782,370 76,560,840 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

76



PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021
(Dollars in Thousands)
 Years ended December 31,
 202320222021
Net income$128,398 $175,648 $167,921 
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Unrealized gains and losses on available for sale debt securities:
Net unrealized (losses) gains arising during the period32,125 (186,361)(23,730)
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income— (42)(171)
Total32,125 (186,403)(23,901)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
Net unrealized (losses) gains arising during the period2,388 19,201 6,169 
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income(12,948)(3,297)2,878 
Total(10,560)15,904 9,047 
Amortization related to post-retirement obligations2,365 (1,409)4,062 
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax23,930 (171,908)(10,792)
Total comprehensive income$152,328 $3,740 $157,129 
 Years ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
Net income$93,949
 $87,802
 $83,722
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:     
Unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale:     
Net unrealized losses arising during the period(2,163) (4,431) (3,401)
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income
 (30) (391)
Total(2,163) (4,461) (3,792)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives379
 242
 (73)
Amortization related to post-retirement obligations(889) 3,368
 1,290
Total other comprehensive loss(2,673) (851) (2,575)
Total comprehensive income$91,276
 $86,951
 $81,147


See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015
(Dollars in Thousands)
77
 
COMMON
STOCK
 
ADDITIONAL
PAID-IN
CAPITAL
 
RETAINED
EARNINGS
 
ACCUMULATED
OTHER
COMPREHENSIVE
 (LOSS) INCOME
 
TREASURY
STOCK
 
UNALLOCATED
ESOP
SHARES
 
COMMON
STOCK
ACQUIRED
BY DDFP
 
DEFERRED
COMPENSATION
DDFP
 
TOTAL
STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY
Balance at December 31, 2014$832
 $995,053
 $465,276
 $29
 $(271,779) $(45,312) $(7,113) $7,113
 $1,144,099
Net income
 
 83,722
 
 
 
 
 
 83,722
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 
 
 (2,575) 
 
 
 
 $(2,575)
Cash dividends paid
 
 (41,285) 
 
 
 
 
 (41,285)
Distributions from DDFP
 85
 
 
 
 
 596
 (596) 85
Purchases of treasury stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding
 
 
 
 (1,988) 
 
 
 (1,988)
Shares issued dividend reinvestment plan
 143
 
 
 1,304
 
 
 
 1,447
Option exercises
 (283) 
 
 3,449
 
 
 
 3,166
Allocation of ESOP shares
 467
 
 
 
 3,582
 
 
 4,049
Allocation of SAP shares
 5,073
 
 
 
 
 
 
 5,073
Allocation of stock options
 272
 
 
 
 
 
 
 272
Balance at December 31, 2015$832
 $1,000,810
 $507,713
 $(2,546) $(269,014) $(41,730) $(6,517) $6,517
 $1,196,065





PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015 (Continued)2021
(Dollars in Thousands)Thousands)

COMMON
STOCK
ADDITIONAL
PAID-IN
CAPITAL
RETAINED
EARNINGS
ACCUMULATED
OTHER
COMPREHENSIVE
 INCOME
TREASURY
STOCK
UNALLOCATED
ESOP
SHARES
COMMON STOCK ACQUIRED BY DEFERRED COMP PLANS
DEFERRED
COMPENSATION
PLANS
TOTAL
STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY
Balance as of December 31, 2020$832 $962,453 $718,090 $17,655 $(59,018)$(20,215)$(4,549)$4,549 $1,619,797 
Net income— — 167,921 — — — — — 167,921 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax— — — (10,792)— — — — (10,792)
Cash dividends paid ($0.92 per share)— — (71,478)— — — — — (71,478)
Distributions from deferred comp plans— 154 — — — — 565 (565)154 
Purchases of treasury stock— — — — (20,711)— — — (20,711)
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding— — — — (961)— — — (961)
Option exercises— (200)— — 1,087 — — — 887 
Allocation of Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") shares— 1,757 — — — 4,871 — — 6,628 
Allocation of Stock Award Plan ("SAP") shares— 5,451 — — — — — — 5,451 
Allocation of stock options— 200 — — — — — — 200 
Balance as of December 31, 2021$832 $969,815 $814,533 $6,863 $(79,603)$(15,344)$(3,984)$3,984 $1,697,096 
 
COMMON
STOCK
 
ADDITIONAL
PAID-IN
CAPITAL
 
RETAINED
EARNINGS
 
ACCUMULATED
OTHER
COMPREHENSIVE
(LOSS) INCOME
 
TREASURY
STOCK
 
UNALLOCATED
ESOP
SHARES
 
COMMON
STOCK
ACQUIRED
BY DDFP
 
DEFERRED
COMPENSATION
DDFP
 
TOTAL
STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY
Balance at December 31, 2015$832
 $1,000,810
 $507,713
 $(2,546) $(269,014) $(41,730) $(6,517) $6,517
 $1,196,065
Net income

 

 87,802
 

 

 

 

 

 87,802
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 
 
 (851) 
 
 
 
 (851)
Cash dividends paid
 
 (45,369) 
 
 
 
 
 (45,369)
Effect of adopting Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-09
 (622) 622
 
 
 
 
 
 
Distributions from DDFP

 131
 

 

 

 

 671
 (671) 131
Purchases of treasury stock
 
 
 
 (1,557) 
 
 
 (1,557)
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding
 
 
 
 (1,225) 
 
 
 (1,225)
Shares issued dividend reinvestment plan
 356
 
 
 1,296
 
 
 
 1,652
Option exercises
 (81) 
 
 6,279
 
 
 
 6,198
Allocation of ESOP shares
 1,199
 
 
 
 3,752
 
 
 4,951
Allocation of SAP shares
 3,812
 
 
 
 
 
 
 3,812
Allocation of stock options
 172
 
 
 
 
 
 
 172
Balance at December 31, 2016$832
 $1,005,777
 $550,768
 $(3,397) $(264,221) $(37,978) $(5,846) $5,846
 $1,251,781


























PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
78


Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015 Continued)2021 (Continued)
(Dollars in Thousands)
COMMON
STOCK
ADDITIONAL
PAID-IN
CAPITAL
RETAINED
EARNINGS
ACCUMULATED
OTHER
COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME (LOSS)
TREASURY
STOCK
UNALLOCATED
ESOP
SHARES
COMMON STOCK ACQUIRED BY DEFERRED COMP PLANS
DEFERRED
COMPENSATION
PLANS
TOTAL
STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY
Balance as of December 31, 2021$832 $969,815 $814,533 $6,863 $(79,603)$(15,344)$(3,984)$3,984 $1,697,096 
Net income— — 175,648 — — — — — 175,648 
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax— — — (171,908)— — — — (171,908)
Cash dividends paid ($0.94 per share)— — (72,023)— — — — — (72,023)
Distributions from deferred comp plans— 176 — — — — 557 (557)176 
Purchases of treasury stock— — — — (46,530)— — — (46,530)
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding— — — — (1021)— — — (1,021)
Option exercises— — — — — — — — — 
Allocation of ESOP shares— 1,542 — — — 5,118 — — 6,660 
Allocation of SAP shares— 9,407 — — — — — — 9,407 
Allocation of stock options— 198 — — — — — — 198 
Balance as of December 31, 2022$832 $981,138 $918,158 $(165,045)$(127,154)$(10,226)$(3,427)$3,427 $1,597,703 
















PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
79


 
COMMON
STOCK
 
ADDITIONAL
PAID-IN
CAPITAL
 
RETAINED
EARNINGS
 
ACCUMULATED
OTHER
COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME
 
TREASURY
STOCK
 
UNALLOCATED
ESOP
SHARES
 
COMMON
STOCK
ACQUIRED
BY DDFP
 
DEFERRED
COMPENSATION
DDFP
 
TOTAL
STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY
Balance at December 31, 2016$832
 $1,005,777
 $550,768
 $(3,397) $(264,221) $(37,978) $(5,846) $5,846
 $1,251,781
Net income

 

 93,949
 

 

 

 

 

 93,949
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 
 
 (2,673) 
 
 
 
 (2,673)
Reclassification due to the adoption of ASU No. 2018-02
 
 1,395
 (1,395) 
 
 
 
 
Cash dividends paid
 
 (59,980) 
 
 
 
 
 (59,980)
Distributions from DDFP

 232
 

 

 

 

 671
 (671) 232
Purchases of treasury stock
 
 
 
 (443) 
 
 
 (443)
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding
 
 
 
 (778) 
 
 
 (778)
Shares issued dividend reinvestment plan
 712
 
 
 1,402
 
 
 
 2,114
Option exercises
 (1,179) 
 
 4,133
 
 
 
 2,954
Allocation of ESOP shares
 2,200
 
 
 
 4,139
 
 
 6,339
Allocation of SAP shares
 4,963
 
 
 
 
 
 
 4,963
Allocation of stock options
 203
 
 
 
 
 
 
 203
Balance at December 31, 2017$832
 $1,012,908
 $586,132
 $(7,465) $(259,907) $(33,839) $(5,175) $5,175
 $1,298,661
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 (Continued)

(Dollars in Thousands)
COMMON
STOCK
ADDITIONAL
PAID-IN
CAPITAL
RETAINED
EARNINGS
ACCUMULATED
OTHER
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
TREASURY
STOCK
UNALLOCATED
ESOP
SHARES
COMMON STOCK ACQUIRED BY DEFERRED COMP PLANSDEFERRED COMPENSATION PLANS
TOTAL
STOCKHOLDERS’
EQUITY
Balance as of December 31, 2022$832 $981,138 $918,158 $(165,045)$(127,154)$(10,226)$(3,427)$3,427 $1,597,703 
Net income— — 128,398 — — — — — 128,398 
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax— — — 23,930 — — — — 23,930 
Cash dividends paid ($0.96 per share)— — (72,447)— — — — — (72,447)
Cumulative effect of adopting Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2022-02, net of tax— — 433 — — — — — 433 
Distributions from deferred comp plans— 152 — — — — 733 (733)152 
Purchases of treasury stock— — — — — — — — — 
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding— — — — (1,678)— — — (1,678)
Option exercises— (217)— — 1,007 — — — 790 
Allocation of ESOP shares— 272 — — — 5,330 — — 5,602 
Allocation of SAP shares— 7,569 — — — — — — 7,569 
Allocation of stock options— 144 — — — — — — 144 
Balance as of December 31, 2023$832 $989,058 $974,542 $(141,115)$(127,825)$(4,896)$(2,694)$2,694 $1,690,596 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



80



PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021
(Dollars in Thousands)
 Years Ended December 31,
 202320222021
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income$128,398 $175,648 $167,921 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization expense11,695 13,076 12,656 
Provision charge (benefit) for credit losses on loans and securities27,904 8,388 (24,339)
Provision charge (benefit) for credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures264 (3,384)1,515 
Deferred tax expense2,725 2,220 12,413 
Amortization of operating lease right-of-use assets10,495 10,617 10,074 
Income on Bank-owned life insurance(6,482)(5,988)(7,930)
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities8,326 12,673 15,841 
Accretion of net deferred loan fees(8,724)(9,262)(7,763)
Amortization of premiums on purchased loans, net206 270 604 
Originations of loans held for sale(19,371)(22,295)(47,675)
Proceeds from sales of loans originated for sale22,895 20,521 49,530 
ESOP expense3,086 4,140 4,318 
Allocation of stock award shares7,569 9,407 5,451 
Allocation of stock options144 198 200 
Net gain on sale of loans(2,019)(1,515)(1,855)
Net gain on securities transactions(30)(181)(255)
Net loss (gain) on sale of premises and equipment154 (22)(42)
Net gain on sale of foreclosed assets(2,854)(8,541)(461)
Net change in balance sheet:
(Increase) decrease in accrued interest receivable(7,063)(9,913)4,460 
Decrease (increase) in other assets25,085 (56,291)10,264 
(Decrease) increase in other liabilities(29,007)60,544 (48,113)
Net cash provided by operating activities173,396 200,310 156,814 
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net (increase) decrease in loans(625,691)(649,216)253,221 
Proceeds from sales of loans held for investment2,017 — — 
Proceeds from sales of foreclosed assets4,340 16,155 1,368 
Proceeds from maturities, calls and paydowns of investment securities held to maturity40,816 73,841 47,637 
Purchases of investment securities held to maturity(17,099)(27,043)(34,599)
Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale— — 9,442 
Proceeds from maturities calls and paydowns of securities available for sale189,542 278,779 393,173 
Purchases of securities available for sale(40,089)(290,426)(1,400,980)
Proceeds from redemption of Federal Home Loan Bank stock212,527 162,987 30,870 
Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock(223,190)(197,251)(5,671)
BOLI claim benefits received3,873 970 7,964 
Purchases of loans(9,263)(6,971)(5,230)
Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment105 22 42 
Purchases of premises and equipment(7,488)(9,411)(13,805)
Net cash used in investing activities(469,600)(647,564)(716,568)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net (decrease) increase in deposits(270,510)(670,988)1,396,183 
Increase in mortgage escrow deposits1,133 1,265 142 
Purchase of treasury stock— (46,530)(20,711)
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding(1,678)(1,021)(961)
Cash dividends paid to stockholders(72,447)(72,023)(71,478)
Stock options exercised790 — 887 
Proceeds from long-term borrowings534,807 3,982,100 913,685 
Repayments of long-term borrowings(58,443)(3,252,556)(1,454,440)
Net increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings156,299 (18,948)(8,443)
Repayment of subordinated debentures— — (15,000)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities289,951 (78,701)739,864 
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents(6,253)(525,955)180,110 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period186,438 685,163 418,053 
Restricted cash at beginning of period70 27,300 114,300 
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period186,508 712,463 532,353 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period180,185 186,438 685,163 
Restricted cash at end of period70 70 27,300 
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period$180,255 186,508 712,463 
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest on deposits and borrowings$210,345 46,896 35,910 
Income taxes$46,461 51,050 57,471 
Non cash investing activities:
Transfer of loans receivable to foreclosed assets$15,131 1,208 434 
 Years Ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:     
Net income$93,949
 $87,802
 $83,722
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:     
Depreciation and amortization of intangibles11,623
 12,760
 13,714
Provision for loan losses5,600
 5,400
 4,350
Deferred tax expense40,634
 3,160
 326
Income on Bank-owned life insurance(6,693) (5,470) (5,345)
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on securities9,948
 10,831
 10,613
Accretion of net deferred loan fees(4,655) (3,408) (4,624)
Amortization of premiums on purchased loans, net1,021
 1,311
 1,100
Net increase in loans originated for sale(24,938) (34,976) (11,918)
Proceeds from sales of loans originated for sale26,387
 37,008
 12,799
Proceeds from sales and paydowns of foreclosed assets5,423
 6,109
 4,443
ESOP expense4,600
 3,706
 2,997
Allocation of stock award shares4,963
 3,812
 4,625
Allocation of stock options203
 172
 272
Net gain on sale of loans(1,449) (2,032) (881)
Net gain on securities transactions(57) (64) (654)
Net gain on sale of premises and equipment(20) (14) (4)
Net gain on sale of foreclosed assets(819) (585) (592)
Increase in accrued interest receivable(2,564) (1,316) (538)
(Increase) decrease in other assets(52,078) 5,873
 (4,912)
Increase (decrease) in other liabilities6,142
 (2,770) 5,373
Net cash provided by operating activities117,220
 127,309
 114,866
Cash flows from investing activities:     
Proceeds from maturities, calls and paydowns of investment securities held to maturity55,720
 62,975
 37,271
Purchases of investment securities held to maturity(47,894) (80,349) (44,254)
Proceeds from sales of securities
 3,401
 14,005
Proceeds from maturities, calls and paydowns of securities available for sale220,138
 211,440
 212,095
Purchases of securities available for sale(228,363) (306,151) (129,720)
Proceeds from redemption of Federal Home Loan Bank stock130,125
 56,505
 87,510
Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock(135,583) (54,050) (95,902)
Net cash and cash equivalents paid in acquisition
 
 (25,855)
Death benefit proceeds from bank-owned life insurance4,428
 
 776
Purchases of loans
 (28,590) (95,283)
Net increase in loans(322,443) (440,999) (363,436)
Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment20,766
 14
 19
Purchases of premises and equipment(3,231) (4,995) (5,909)
Net cash used in investing activities(306,337) (580,799) (408,683)
Cash flows from financing activities:     
Net increase in deposits160,537
 629,642
 131,464
Increase in mortgage escrow deposits1,481
 1,107
 1,696
Purchase of treasury stock(443) (1,557) 
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding(778) (1,225) (1,988)
Cash dividends paid to stockholders(59,980) (45,369) (41,285)
Shares issued to dividend reinvestment plan2,114
 1,652
 1,447
Stock options exercised2,954
 6,198
 3,166
Proceeds from long-term borrowings347,000
 355,000
 694,937
Payments on long-term borrowings(539,745) (485,202) (549,935)
Net increase in short-term borrowings322,514
 35,315
 52,779
Net cash provided by financing activities235,654
 495,561
 292,281
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents46,537
 42,071
 (1,536)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period144,297
 102,226
 103,762
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$190,834
 $144,297
 $102,226
Cash paid during the period for:     
Interest on deposits and borrowings$46,391
 $44,004
 $41,663
Income taxes$40,566
 $33,886
 $40,620
Non cash investing activities:     
Transfer of loans receivable to foreclosed assets$3,845
 $3,631
 $10,074
Acquisition:     
Non-cash assets acquired:     
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net
 
 25,323
Other assets
 
 1,270
Total non-cash assets acquired$
 $
 $26,593
Liabilities assumed:     
Other Liabilities
 
 400
Total liabilities assumed$
 $
 $400
Common stock issued for acquisitions$
 $
 $


See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
81


PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial StatementsNOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015



(1) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (the “Company”), Provident Bank (the “Bank”) and their wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain reclassifications have been made in the consolidated financial statements to conform with current year classifications.
Business
The Company, through the Bank, provides a full range of banking services to individual and business customers through branch offices in New Jersey, Queens and Nassau Counties, New York and eastern Pennsylvania. The Bank is subject to competition from other financial institutions and to the regulations of certain federal and state agencies, and undergoes periodic examinations by those regulatory authorities.
Basis of Financial Statement Presentation
The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities as of the dates of the consolidated statements of financial condition, and revenues and expenses for the periods then ended. Such estimates are used in connection with the determination of the allowance for loancredit losses, evaluation of goodwill for impairment, evaluation of other-than-temporary impairment on securities, evaluation of the need for valuation allowances on deferred tax assets, and determination of liabilities related to retirement and other post-retirement benefits, among others. These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best estimates and judgment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the currentcurrently forecasted economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Such estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate. Illiquid credit markets, volatile securities markets, and declines in the housing market and the economy generally have combined to increase the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks, Federal funds sold and commercial paper with original maturity dates less than 90 days.
Securities
Securities include investment securities held to maturity debt securities and securities available for sale.sale debt securities. The available for sale debt securities portfolio is carried at estimated fair value, with any unrealized gains or losses, net of taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income or loss in Stockholders’ Equity. Estimated fair values are based on market quotations or matrix pricing.provided by reputable and widely used pricing services who maintain pricing methodologies appropriate for varying security classes using valuation techniques that are in accordance with GAAP. Securities which the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity debt securities and carried at amortized cost.
On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted the current expected credit loss ("CECL") methodology which replaces the incurred loss methodology with an expected loss methodology. Management conductsmeasures expected credit losses on held to maturity debt securities on a periodic reviewcollective basis by security type. Management classifies the held to maturity debt securities portfolio into the following security types:
Agency obligations;
Mortgage-backed securities;
State and evaluationmunicipal obligations; and
Corporate obligations.
82


All of the securities portfolio to determine if any declines inagency obligations held by the fair values ofCompany are issued by U.S. government entities and agencies. These securities are other-than-temporary. In this evaluation, if sucheither explicitly or implicitly guaranteed by the U.S. government, are highly rated by major rating agencies and have a decline were deemed other-than-temporary, management would measure the total credit-related componentlong history of no credit losses. The majority of the unrealized loss,state and recognize that portionmunicipal, and corporate obligations carry no lower than A ratings from the rating agencies as of the loss as a charge to current period earnings. The remaining portion of the unrealized loss would be recognized as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income. The fair value of the securities portfolio is significantly affected by changes in interest rates. In general, as interest rates rise, the fair value of fixed-rate securities decreasesDecember 31, 2023 and as interest rates fall, the fair value of fixed-rate securities increases. The Company determines if it has the intent to sell these securities or if it is more likely than not that the Company would be required to sell thehad no securities before the anticipated recovery. If either exists, the entire decline in value is considered other-than-temporary and would be recognized as an expense in the current period.rated BBB or worse by Moody’s Investors Service.
Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized and accreted tointo income using a method that approximates the interest method over the remaining period to the earliest call date or contractual maturity, adjusted for anticipated prepayments. Dividend and interestDiscounts on securities are accreted into income
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes over the remaining period to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


arethe contractual maturity, adjusted for anticipated prepayments. Interest income is recognized on an accrual basis, while dividend income is recognized when earned. Realized gains and losses are recognized when securities are sold or called based on the specific identification method. Accrued interest receivable on held to maturity debt securities are excluded from the estimate of credit losses. See Note 3 for additional information on investment securities.
Equity Securities
The Company holds equity securities that are traded in active markets with readily determinable fair value using quoted market prices.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy 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). 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.
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Stock
The Bank, as a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (“FHLBNY”), is required to hold shares of capital stock of the FHLBNY at cost based on a specified formula. The Bank carries this investment at cost, which approximates fair value.
Loans
Loans receivable are carried at unpaid principal balances plus unamortized premiums, purchase accounting mark-to-market adjustments and certain deferred loan origination costs, less certain deferred direct loan origination costsfees, unaccreted discounts, and deferred loan origination fees and discounts, less the allowance for loancredit losses.
The Bank defers loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs and accretes or amortizes such amounts as an adjustment to the yield over the expectedcontractual lives of the related loans using the interest method. Premiums and discounts on loans purchased are amortized or accreted as an adjustment of yield over the contractual lives of the related loans, adjusted for prepayments when applicable, using methodologies which approximate the effective interest method.
Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when they are past due 90 days or more as to contractual obligations or when other circumstances indicate that collection is questionable. When a loan is placed on non-accrual status, any interest accrued but not received is reversed against interest income. Payments received on a non-accrual loan are either applied to the outstanding principal balance or recorded as interest income, depending on an assessment of the ability to collect the loan. A non-accrual loan is restored to accrual status when principal and interest payments become less than 90 days past due and its future collectability is reasonably assured.
An impaired loan is defined as a loan for which it is probable, based on current information, that the lenderBank will not collect all amounts due under the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired loans are individually assessed to determine that each loan’s carrying value is not in excess of the fair value of the related collateral or the present value of the expected future cash flows. Residential mortgage and consumer loans are deemed smaller balance homogeneous loans which are evaluated collectively for impairment and are therefore excluded from the population of impaired loans.
Purchased Credit-Impairedcredit deteriorated (“PCI”PCD”) loans are loans acquired atthat have experienced more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since origination.
83


Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans
On January 1, 2020, the Company adopted ASU 2016-13, "Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which replaced the incurred loss methodology with the CECL methodology. The allowance for credit losses is a discountvaluation account that reflects management’s evaluation of the current expected credit losses in the loan portfolio. The Company maintains the allowance for credit losses through provisions for credit losses that are charged to income. Charge-offs against the allowance for credit losses are taken on loans where management determines that the collection of loan principal and interest is unlikely. Recoveries made on loans that have been charged-off are credited to the allowance for credit losses.
The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that reflects management’s evaluation of the current expected credit losses in the loan portfolio. The Company maintains the allowance for credit losses through provisions for credit losses that are charged to income. Charge-offs against the allowance for credit losses are taken on loans where management determines that the collection of loan principal and interest is unlikely. Recoveries made on loans that have been charged-off are credited to the allowance for credit losses.
The calculation of the allowance for credit losses is a critical accounting policy of the Company. Management estimates the allowance using relevant available information, from internal and external sources, related to past events, current conditions, and a reasonable and supportable forecast. Historical credit loss experience for both the Company and peers provides the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses, where observed credit losses are converted to probability of default rate (“PDR”) curves through the use of segment-specific loss given default (“LGD”) risk factors that convert default rates to loss severity based on industry-level, observed relationships between the two variables for each segment, primarily due to deteriorated credit quality. PCI loans are recorded at fair value at the datenature of acquisition,the underlying collateral. These risk factors were assessed for reasonableness against the Company’s own loss experience and adjusted in certain cases when the relationship between the Company’s historical default and loss severity deviate from that of the wider industry. The historical PDR curves, together with nocorresponding economic conditions, establish a quantitative relationship between economic conditions and loan performance through an economic cycle.
Using the historical relationship between economic conditions and loan performance, management’s expectation of future loan performance is incorporated using an externally developed economic forecast. This forecast is applied over a period that management has determined to be reasonable and supportable. Beyond the period over which management can develop or source a reasonable and supportable forecast, the model will revert to long-term average economic conditions using a straight-line, time-based methodology. The Company's current forecast period is six quarters, with a four-quarter reversion period to historical average macroeconomic factors. The Company's economic forecast is approved by the Company's Allowance for Credit Loss ("ACL") Committee.
The allowance for credit losses is measured on a collective (pool) basis, with both a quantitative and qualitative analysis that is applied on a quarterly basis, when similar risk characteristics exist. The respective quantitative allowance for each loan losses. Thesegment is measured using an econometric, discounted PDR/LGD modeling methodology in which distinct, segment-specific multi-variate regression models are applied to an external economic forecast. Under the discounted cash flows methodology, expected credit losses are estimated over the effective life of the loans by measuring the difference between the undiscountednet present value of modeled cash flows and amortized cost basis. Contractual cash flows over the contractual life of the loans are the basis for modeled cash flows, adjusted for modeled defaults and expected prepayments and discounted at acquisitionthe loan-level effective interest rate. The contractual term excludes expected extensions, renewals and modifications unless either of the following applies at the reporting date: management has a reasonable expectation that a modification will be executed with an individual borrower; or when an extension or renewal option is included in the original contract and is not unconditionally cancellable by the Company. Management will assess the likelihood of the option being exercised by the borrower and appropriately extend the maturity for modeling purposes.
The Company considers qualitative adjustments to credit loss estimates for information not already captured in the quantitative component of the loss estimation process. Qualitative factors are based on portfolio concentration levels, model imprecision, changes in industry conditions, changes in the Company’s loan review process, changes in the Company’s loan policies and procedures, and economic forecast uncertainty.
One of the most significant judgments involved in estimating the Company’s allowance for credit losses relates to the macroeconomic forecasts used to estimate expected credit losses over the forecast period. As of December 31, 2023, the model incorporated Moody’s baseline economic forecast, as adjusted for qualitative factors, as well as an extensive review of classified loans and loans that were classified as impaired with a specific reserve assigned to those loans. This baseline outlook reflected a worsened economic forecast and related deterioration in the projected commercial property price index used in our CECL model. The Company made qualitative adjustments to the projected commercial real estate property price index,
84


considering the differences in portfolio collateral composition versus the commercial property price index used in our CECL models. This resulted in a total provision of $27.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, and an overall coverage ratio of 99 basis points. If the Company used the unadjusted baseline outlooks for the commercial property price index over the expected lives of Commercial Real Estate Non-Owner Occupied and Owner-Occupied loan portfolios, the provision would have risen by $6.5 million, leading to an overall coverage ratio of 105 basis points.
Portfolio segment is defined as the level at which an entity develops and documents a systematic methodology to determine its allowance for credit losses. Management developed segments for estimating loss based on type of borrower and collateral which is generally based upon federal call report segmentation. The segments have been combined or sub-segmented as needed to ensure loans of similar risk profiles are appropriately pooled. As of December 31, 2023, the portfolio and class segments for the Company’s loan portfolio were:
Mortgage Loans – Residential, Commercial Real Estate, Multi-Family and Construction
Commercial Loans – Commercial Owner-Occupied and Commercial Non-Owner Occupied
Consumer Loans – First Lien Home Equity and Other Consumer
The allowance for credit losses on loans individually evaluated for impairment is based upon loans that have been identified through the Company’s normal loan monitoring process. This process includes the review of delinquent and problem loans at the Company’s Delinquency, Credit, Credit Risk Management and Allowance Committees; or which may be identified through the Company’s loan review process. Generally, the Company only evaluates loans individually for impairment if the loan is non-accrual, non-homogeneous and the balance is greater than $1.0 million. In instances where the loan is under $1.0 million, but part of a relationship over $1.0 million, all loans in the relationship would be evaluated individually for impairment.
For all classes of loans deemed collateral-dependent, the Company estimates expected credit losses based on the fair value of the PCI loans at acquisition represents the accretable yield and is recognized as interest income over the life of the loans. Contractually required payments for interest and principal that exceed the undiscounted cash flows expected at acquisition represent the non-accretable discount and are not recognized as a yield adjustment or a valuation allowance. Reclassifications of the non-accretable to accretable yield may occur subsequent tocollateral less any selling costs. If the loan acquisition dates dueis not collateral dependent, the allowance for credit losses related to an increase inindividually assessed loans is based on discounted expected cash flows using the loan’s initial effective interest rate.
For loans acquired that have experienced more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality since their origination are considered PCD loans. The Company evaluates acquired loans for deterioration in credit quality based on any of, but not limited to, the following: (1) non-accrual status; (2) modification designation; (3) risk ratings of special mention, substandard or doubtful; (4) watchlist credits; and (5) delinquency status, including loans that are current on acquisition date, but had been previously delinquent. At the acquisition date, an estimate of expected credit losses is made for groups of PCD loans with similar risk characteristics and individual PCD loans without similar risk characteristics. Subsequent to the acquisition date, the initial allowance for credit losses on PCD loans will increase or decrease based on future evaluations, with changes recognized in the provision for credit losses.
Management believes the primary risks inherent in the portfolio are a general decline in the economy, a decline in real estate market values, rising unemployment or a protracted period of elevated unemployment, increasing vacancy rates in commercial investment properties and possible increases in interest rates in the absence of economic improvement. Any one or a combination of these events may adversely affect borrowers’ ability to repay the loans, resulting in increased delinquencies, credit losses and higher levels of provisions. Management considers it important to maintain the ratio of the allowance for credit losses to total loans at an acceptable level given current and results in an increase inforecasted economic conditions, interest income on a prospective basis.rates and the composition of the portfolio.
AllowanceThe CECL approach to calculate the allowance for Loan Losses
Lossescredit losses on loans are chargedis significantly influenced by the composition, characteristics, and quality of the Company’s loan portfolio, as well as the prevailing economic conditions and forecast utilized. Material changes to these and other relevant factors creates greater volatility to the allowance for loan losses. Additionscredit losses, and therefore, greater volatility to this allowance are made by recoveries of loans previously charged offthe Company’s reported earnings. Although management believes that the Company has established and by a provision charged to expense. The determination of the balance ofmaintained the allowance for loancredit losses is basedat appropriate levels, additions may be necessary if future economic and other conditions differ substantially from the current operating environment and economic forecast. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an analysis of the loan portfolio,ongoing basis giving consideration to forecasted economic conditions,factors, historical loan loss experience and other factors that warrant recognitionfactors. The model includes both quantitative and qualitative components. Such estimates and assumptions are adjusted when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in providingestimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods, and to the extent actual losses are higher than management estimates, additional provision for an adequate allowance.
While management uses available information to recognizecredit losses on loans could be required and could adversely affect our earnings
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or financial position in future additions to the allowance for loan losses may be necessary based on changes in economic conditions in the Bank’s market area.periods. In addition, various regulatory agencies periodically review the adequacy of the Company’s allowance for credit losses as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review the Bank’s allowance for loan losses.process. Such agencies may
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


require the BankCompany to recognize additions to the allowance or additional write-downs based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. Although management uses the best information available, the level of the allowance for credit losses remains an estimate that is subject to significant judgment and short-term volatility. See Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on the allowance for credit losses on loans.
Material changes to these and other relevant factors creates greater volatility to the allowance for credit losses, and therefore, greater volatility to the Company’s reported earnings. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the increase in provision was primarily attributable to a worsened economic forecast and related deterioration in the projected commercial property price indices used in our CECL model.
Foreclosed Assets
Assets acquired through foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure are carried at the lower of the outstanding loan balance at the time of foreclosure or fair value, less estimated costs to sell. Fair value is generally based on recent appraisals. When an asset is acquired, the excess of the loan balance over fair value, less estimated costs to sell, is charged to the allowance for loancredit losses. A reserve for foreclosed assets may be established to provide for possible write-downs and selling costs that occur subsequent to foreclosure. Foreclosed assets are carried net of the related reserve. Operating results from real estate owned, including rental income, operating expenses, and gains and losses realized from the sales of real estate owned, are recorded as incurred.
Banking Premises and Equipment
Land is carried at cost. Banking premises, furniture, fixtures and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation, computed using the straight-line method based on their estimated useful lives (generally 25 to 40 years for buildings, and 3 to 5 years for furniture and equipment).lives. Leasehold improvements, carried at cost, net of accumulated depreciation, are amortized over the terms of the leases or the estimated useful lives of the assets, whichever are shorter, using the straight-line method. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred.
Income Taxes
The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in tax expense in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are reported as a component of other assetsOther Assets on the consolidated statementsConsolidated Statements of financial condition.Financial Condition. The determination of whether deferred tax assets will be realizable is predicated on estimates of future taxable income. Such estimates are subject to management’s judgment. A valuation reserve is established when management is unable to conclude that it is more likely than not that it will realize deferred tax assets based on the nature and timing of these items. The Company recognizes, when applicable, interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in the provision for income taxes.
Trust Assets
Trust assets consisting of securities and other property (other than cash on deposit held by the Bank in fiduciary or agency capacities for customers of the Bank’s wholly owned subsidiary, Beacon Trust Company)Beacon) are not included in the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition because such properties are not assets of the Bank.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets of the Bank consist of goodwill, core deposit premiums, customer relationship premium and mortgage servicing rights. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of identifiable net assets acquired through purchase acquisitions. In accordance with GAAP, goodwill with an indefinite useful life is not amortized, but is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate potential impairment between annual measurement dates. Goodwill is analyzed for impairment each year at September 30th. As permitted by GAAP, the Company prepares a qualitative assessment in determining whether goodwill may be impaired. The factors considered in the assessment include macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions and overall financial performance of the Company, among others. The Company completed its
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annual qualitative assessment of goodwill impairment test as of September 30, 2017.July 1, 2023. Based upon its qualitative assessment of goodwill, the Company concluded that goodwill was not impaired and no further quantitative analysis was warranted.
Core deposit premiums represent the intangible value of depositor relationships assumed in previous purchase acquisitions and are amortized on an accelerated basis over 8.8 years, while the core deposit premium related to SB One is amortized over its estimated useful life of 10.0 years. Customer relationship premiums represent the intangible value of customer relationships assumed in the purchase acquisitionacquisitions of Beacon Trust Company ("Beacon"), The MDE Group, Inc. ("MDE"), Tirschwell & Loewy, Inc. ("T&L"), and MDE,SB One Bank and are amortized on an accelerated basis over 12.0 years, 10.4 years, 10.0 years, and 10.413.0 years, respectively. Mortgage servicing rights are recorded when purchased or when originated mortgage loans are sold, with servicing rights retained. Mortgage servicing rights are amortized on an accelerated method based upon the estimated lives of the related loans, adjusted for prepayments. Mortgage servicing rights are carried at the lower of amortized cost or fair value.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


Bank-owned Life Insurance
Bank-owned life insurance is accounted for using the cash surrender value method and is recorded at its realizable value.
Employee Benefit Plans
The Bank maintains a pension plan which covers full-time employees hired prior to April 1, 2003, the date on which the pension plan was frozen. The Bank’s policy is to fund at least the minimum contribution required by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. GAAP requires an employer to: (a) recognize in its statement of financial positioncondition the over-funded or under-funded status of a defined benefit postretirementpost-retirement plan measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the benefit obligation; (b) measure a plan’s assets and its obligations that determine its funded status at the end of the employer’s fiscal year (with limited exceptions); and (c) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the actuarial gains and losses and the prior service costs and credits that arise during the period.
The Bank has a 401(k) plan covering substantially all employees of the Bank. The Bank may match a percentage of the first 6% contributed by participants. The Bank’s matching contribution, if any, is determined by the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors in its sole discretion.
The Bank has an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”). The funds borrowed by the ESOP from the Company to purchase the Company’s common stock are being repaid from the Bank’s contributions and dividends paid on unallocated ESOP shares over a period of up to 30 years. The Company’s common stock not allocated to participants is recorded as a reduction of stockholders’ equity at cost. Compensation expense for the ESOP is based on the average price of the Company’s stock during each quarter and the amount of shares allocated during the quarter.
The Bank has an Equity Plan designed to provide competitive compensation for demonstrated performance and to align the interests of participants directly to increases in shareholder value. The Equity Plan provides for performance-vesting grants as well as time-vesting grants. Time-vesting stock awards, stock options and performance vesting stock awards that are based on a performance condition, such as return on average assets, are valued on the closing stock price on the date of grant. Performance vestingPerformance-vesting stock awards and options that are based on a market condition, such as Total Shareholder Return,total shareholder return, would be valued using a generally accepted statistical technique to simulate future stock prices for Providentthe Bank and the components of the Peer Grouppeer group which Providentthe Bank would be measured against.
Expense related to time vestingtime-vesting stock awards and stock options is based on the fair value of the common stock on the date of the grant and on the fair value of the stock options on the date of the grant, respectively, and is recognized ratably over the vesting period of the awards. Performance vesting stock awards and stock options are either dependent upon a market condition or a performance condition. A market condition performance metric is tied to a stock price, either on an absolute basis, or a relative basis against peers, while a performance-condition is based on internal operations, such as earnings per share. The expense related to a market condition performance-vesting stock award or stock option requires an initial Monte Carlo simulation to determine grant date fair value, which will be recognized as a compensation expense regardless of actual payout, assuming that the executive is still employed at the end of the requisite service period. If pre-vesting termination (forfeiture) occurs, then any expense recognized to date can be reversed. The grant date fair value is recognized ratably over the performance period. The expense related to a performance condition stock award or stock option is based on the fair value of the award on the date of grant, adjusted periodically based upon the number of awards or options expected to be earned, recognized over the performance period.
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In connection with the First Sentinel acquisition in July 2004, the Company assumed the First Savings Bank Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan (the “DDFP”). The DDFP was frozen prior to the acquisition. The Company recorded a deferred compensation equity instrument and corresponding contra-equity account for the value of the shares held by the DDFP at the July 14, 2004 acquisition date. These accounts will be liquidated as shares are distributed fromEffective November 1, 2023, the DDFP in accordance with the plan document. Atwas terminated and final distributions are expected on or about November 1, 2024. As of December 31, 2017,2023, there were 296,04965,744 shares held by the DDFP.
The Bank maintains a non-qualified plan that provides supplemental benefits to certain executives who are prevented from receiving the full benefits contemplated by the 401(k) Plan’s and the ESOP’s benefit formulas under tax law limits for tax-qualified plans.
Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pensions
The Bank provides post-retirement health care and life insurance plans to certain of its employees. The life insurance coverage is noncontributory to the participant. Participants contribute to the cost of medical coverage based on the employee’s
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


length of service with the Bank. The costs of such benefits are accrued based on actuarial assumptions from the date of hire to the date the employee is fully eligible to receive the benefits. On December 31, 2002, the Bank eliminated postretirementpost-retirement healthcare benefits for employees with less than 10 years of service. GAAP requires an employer to: (a) recognize in its statement of financial positioncondition the over-funded or under-funded status of a defined benefit post-retirement plan measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the benefit obligation; (b) measure a plan’s assets and its obligations that determine its funded status as of the end of the employer’s fiscal year (with limited exceptions); and (c) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the actuarial gains and losses and the prior service costs and credits that arise during the period.
Derivatives
The Company records all derivatives on the Consolidated Statementsstatements of Financial Conditionfinancial condition at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative, whether the Company has elected to designate a derivative in a hedging relationship and apply hedge accounting and whether the hedging relationship has satisfied the criteria necessary to apply hedge accounting. TheseThe Company has interest rate derivatives resultresulting from a service provided to certain qualifyingqualified borrowers in a loan related transaction and,which, therefore, are not used to manage interest rate risk in the Company’s assets or liabilities. As such, all changes in the fair value of thesethe Company’s derivatives are recognized directly in earnings.
The Company also uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges, and which satisfy hedge accounting requirements, involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Company making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without the exchange of the underlying notional amount. These derivatives were used to hedge the variable cash outflows associated with Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings.FHLBNY borrowings and brokered demand deposits. The effective portion of changeschange in the fair value of these derivatives areis recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income, and areis subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of these derivatives are recognized directly in earnings.
The fair value of the Company's derivatives are determined using discounted cash flow analyses using observable market-based inputs.
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income is divided into net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes items previously recorded directly to equity, such as unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale debt securities, unrealized gains and losses on derivatives that are designated as cash flow hedges and amortization related to post-retirement obligations. Comprehensive income is presented in a separate Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.
Segment Reporting
The Company’s operations are solely in the financial services industry and include providing traditional banking and other financial services to its customers. The Company operates primarily in the geographical regions of northern and central New Jersey, Queens and Nassau Counties in New York and eastern Pennsylvania. Management makes operating decisions and assesses performance based on an ongoing review of the Bank’s consolidated financial results. Therefore, theThe Company has a single operatingreporting segment for financial reporting purposes.
Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if
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securities or other contracts to issue common stock (such as stock options) were exercised or resulted in the issuance of common stock. These potentially dilutive shares would then be included in the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period using the treasury stock method. Shares issued and shares reacquired during the period are weighted for the portion of the period that they were outstanding.
Impact of Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Accounting Pronouncements Adopted This Year
In February 2018,March 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2018-02, "Income Statement-Reporting Comprehensive Income2022-02, "Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 220)326): ReclassificationTroubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures," whichaddresses areas identified by the FASB as part of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income" to address a narrow-scope financial reporting issue that arose as a consequenceits post-implementation review of the changecredit losses standard (ASU 2016-13) that introduced the CECL model. The amendments eliminate the accounting guidance for troubled debt restructurings by creditors that have adopted the CECL model and enhance the disclosure requirements for loan refinancing and restructurings made with borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. In addition, the amendments require a public business entity to disclose current-period gross write-offs for financing receivables and net investment in leases by year of origination in the tax law. On December 22, 2017, the U.S. federal government enacted a tax bill, H.R.1, An Act to Provide for
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


Reconciliation Pursuant to Titles II and V of the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2018 (Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017). Thevintage disclosures. For entities that have adopted ASU permits a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the newly enacted federal corporate income tax rate. The amount of the reclassification would be the difference between the historical corporate income tax rate of 35 percent and the newly enacted 21 percent corporate income tax rate.2016-13, ASU 2018-02 is2022-02 was effective for all entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years with earlyyears. Early adoption was permitted including adoption in any interim period,if an entity had adopted ASU 2016-13. The Company adopted this ASU on January 1, 2023 using the modified retrospective method for (i) public business entitiesall financial assets measured at amortized cost. Results for reporting periods for which financial statements have not yet been issued and (ii) all other entities for reporting periods for which financial statements have not yet been made available for issuance. The changesbeginning after January 1, 2023 are requiredpresented under ASC 326 while prior period amounts continue to be applied retrospectivelyrecorded with previously applicable GAAP. As a result, the Company recorded a $594,000 reduction to each period (or periods) in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 is recognized. The Company early adopted ASU 2018-02,allowance for credit losses, which resulted in the reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive incomea $433,000 cumulative effect adjustment increase, net of tax, to retained earnings totaling $1.4 million, reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity.earnings.
In August 2017,March 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12,Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2022-01, Derivatives and Hedging: Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging.Hedging (Topic 815): Fair Value Hedging – Portfolio Layer Method. The purpose of this updated guidance is to betterfurther align a company’s financial reportingrisk management objectives with hedge accounting results on the application of the last-of-layer method, which was first introduced in ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for hedging activities with the economic objectives of those activities.Hedging Activities. ASU 2017-122022-01 is effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018,2022, with early adoption including adoption in anthe interim period permitted. ASU 2017-12 requires a modified retrospective transition method in which the Company will recognize the cumulative effect of the change on the opening balance of each affected component of equity in the statement of financial position as of the date of adoption. The Company is currently assessingadopted this standard on January 1, 2023 on a prospective basis, with no impact to the impact that the guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In May 2017,March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, “Compensation-Stock Compensation2020-04, "Reference Rate Reform (Topic 718): Scope848)," which provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP to loan and lease agreements, derivative contracts, and other transactions affected by the anticipated transition away from LIBOR toward new interest rate benchmarks. For transactions that are modified because of Modification Accounting”. This updatereference rate reform and that meet certain scope guidance: (i) modifications of loan agreements should be accounted for by prospectively adjusting the effective interest rate and the modification will be considered "minor" so that any existing unamortized origination fees/costs would carry forward and continue to be amortized; and (ii) modifications of lease agreements should be accounted for as a continuation of the existing agreement with no reassessments of the lease classification and the discount rate or re-measurements of lease payments that otherwise would be required for modifications not accounted for as separate contracts. ASU 2020-04 also provides guidance about changes to terms or conditions of a share-based payment award which would require modificationnumerous optional expedients for derivative accounting. In particular, an entity is required to account for the effects of a modification if the fair value, vesting condition or the equity/liability classification of the modified award is not the same immediately before and after a change to the terms and conditions of the award. ASU 2017-09 is effective on a prospective basis for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. The Company's adoption of this guidance is not anticipated to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In March 2017,addition, in January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2017-08, “Receivables - Nonrefundable FeesNo. 2021-01 “Reference Rate Reform — Scope,” which clarified the scope of ASC 848 relating to contract modifications. The Company has reviewed all of its LIBOR-based products and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20): Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities.” This ASU shortens the amortization period for premiums on callable debt securities by requiring that premiumsall products have been adjusted to another index or are scheduled to be amortizedadjusted at their next repricing, as LIBOR ceased to be published after June 30, 2023. The Company adjusted its processes and procedures related to the first (or earliest) call date instead of as an adjustment to the yield over the contractual life. This change more closely aligns the accounting with the economics of a callable debt securityamendments and the amortization period with expectations that already are included in market pricing on callable debt securities. This ASU does not change the accounting for discounts on callable debt securities, which will continue to be amortized to the maturity date. This guidance includes only instruments that are held at a premium and have explicit call features. It does not include instruments that contain prepayment features, such as mortgage backed securities; nor does it include call options that are contingent upon future events or in which the timing or amount to be paid is not fixed. The effective date for this ASU is fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within the reporting period, with early adoption permitted. Transition is on a modified retrospective basis with an adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. If early adopted in an interim period, adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim period. The Company is currently assessing the impact this guidance will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07, "Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Post-retirement Benefit Cost", which requires that companies disaggregate the service cost component from other components of net benefit cost. This update calls for companies that offer post-retirement benefits to present the service cost, which is the amount an employer has to set aside each quarter or fiscal year to cover the benefits, in the same line item with other current employee compensation costs. Other components of net benefit cost will be presented in the income statement separately from the service cost component and outside the subtotal of income from operations, if one is presented. ASU 2017-07 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company's adoption of this guidance willdid not have a material impact onto the Company’s consolidated financial statements, or disclosures.position and results and operations.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment.” The main objective of this ASU is to simplify the accounting for goodwill impairment by requiring that impairment charges be based upon the first step in the current two-step impairment test under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 350. Currently, if the fair value of a reporting unit is lower than its carrying amount (Step 1), an entity calculates any impairment charge by comparing the implied
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


fair value of goodwill with its carrying amount (Step 2). The implied fair value of goodwill is calculated by deducting the fair value of all assets and liabilities of the reporting unit from the reporting unit’s fair value as determined in Step 1. To determine the implied fair value of goodwill, entities estimate the fair value of any unrecognized intangible assets and any corporate-level assets or liabilities that were included in the determination of the carrying amount and fair value of the reporting unit in Step 1. Under ASU 2017-04, if a reporting unit’s carrying amount exceeds its fair value, an entity will record an impairment charge based on that difference. The impairment charge will be limited to the amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. This standard eliminates the requirement to calculate a goodwill impairment charge using Step 2. ASU 2017-04 does not change the guidance on completing Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test. Under ASU 2017-04, an entity will still be able to perform the current optional qualitative goodwill impairment assessment before determining whether to proceed to Step 1. The standard will be applied prospectively and is effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed in periods beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for annual and interim goodwill impairment testing dates after January 1, 2017. The Company does not expect ASU 2017-04 to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, "Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments," a new standard which addresses diversity in practice related to eight specific cash flow issues: debt prepayment or extinguishment costs, settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies (including bank-owned life insurance policies), distributions received from equity method investees, beneficial interests in securitization transactions and separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. ASU 2016-15 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Entities will apply the standard’s provisions using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. If it is impracticable to apply the amendments retrospectively for some of the issues, the amendments for those issues would be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable. The Company's adoption of this guidance is not anticipated to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” The main objective of this ASU is to provide financial statement users with more decision-useful information about the expected credit losses on financial instruments by a reporting entity at each reporting date. The amendments in this ASU require financial assets measured at amortized cost to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The allowance for credit losses would represent a valuation account that would be deducted from the amortized cost basis of the financial asset(s) to present the net carrying value at the amount expected to be collected on the financial asset. The income statement would reflect the measurement of credit losses for newly recognized financial assets, as well as the expected increases or decreases of expected credit losses that have taken place during the period. The measurement of expected credit losses would be based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. An entity will be required to use judgment in determining the relevant information and estimation methods that are appropriate in its circumstances. The amendments in ASU 2016-13 are effective for fiscal years, including interim periods, beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption of this ASU is permitted for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact of ASU 2016-13 on the consolidated financial statements. In that regard, the Company has formed a cross-functional working group, under the direction of the Chief Credit Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Risk Officer. The working group is comprised of individuals from various functional areas including credit, risk management, finance and information technology, among others. The Company is currently developing an implementation plan to include assessment of processes, portfolio segmentation, model development, system requirements and the identification of data and resource needs, among other things. Also, the Company is currently evaluating third-party vendor solutions to assist us in the application of the ASU 2016-13. The adoption of the ASU 2016-13 may result in an increase in the allowance for loan losses as a result of changing from an "incurred loss" model, which encompasses allowances for current known and inherent losses within the portfolio, to an "expected loss" model, which encompasses allowances for losses expected to be incurred over the life of the portfolio. Furthermore, ASU 2016-13 will necessitate establishing an allowance for expected credit losses on debt securities. The Company is currently unable to reasonably estimate the impact of adopting ASU 2016-13, it is expected that the impact of adoption will be significantly influenced by the composition, characteristics and quality of our loan and securities portfolios as well as the prevailing economic conditions and forecasts as of the adoption date.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842).” This ASU requires all lessees to recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use asset, measured at the present value of the future minimum lease payments, at the lease commencement date. Lessor accounting remains largely unchanged under the new guidance. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted. A
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


modified retrospective approach must be applied for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently assessing the impact that the guidance will have on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, "Financial Instruments - Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Liabilities." This ASU addresses certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments. This amendment supersedes the guidance to classify equity securities with readily determinable fair values into different categories, requires equity securities, except equity method investments, to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income, and simplifies the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values. The amendment requires public business entities that are required to disclose the fair value of financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet to measure that fair value using the exit price notion. The amendment requires an entity to present separately in other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk when the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option. The amendment requires separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset on the balance sheet or in the accompanying notes to the financial statements. The amendment reduces diversity in current practice by clarifying that an entity should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available for sale securities in combination with the entity’s other deferred tax assets. This amendment is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Entities should apply the amendment by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption, with the exception of the amendment related to equity securities without readily determinable fair values, which should be applied prospectively to equity investments that exist as of the date of adoption. The Company's adoption of this guidance is not anticipated to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)." The objective of this amendment is to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue and to develop a common revenue standard for U.S. GAAP and IFRS. This update affects any entity that either enters into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services or enters into contracts for the transfer of nonfinancial assets unless those contracts are in the scope of other standards. The ASU is effective for public business entities for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted. Subsequently, the FASB issued the following standards related to ASU 2014-09: ASU 2016-08, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations;” ASU 2016-10, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing;” ASU 2016-11, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Updates 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 EITF Meeting;” and ASU 2016-12, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients.” These amendments are intended to improve and clarify the implementation guidance of ASU 2014-09 and have the same effective date as the original standard. The Company's revenue is comprised of net interest income on interest earning assets and liabilities and non-interest income. The scope of guidance explicitly excludes net interest income as well as other revenues associated with financial assets and liabilities, including loans, leases, securities and derivatives. Accordingly, the majority of the Company's revenues will not be affected. The Company formed a working group to guide implementation efforts including the identification of revenue within the scope of the guidance, as well as the evaluation of revenue contracts and the respective performance obligations within those contracts.  The Company has completed its evaluation of this guidance and concluded that there are no material changes related to the timing or amount of revenue recognition. The Company will disaggregate significant categories of revenue within the scope of the guidance and provide the required disclosures starting in the first quarter of 2018. The Company will adopt this guidance in the first quarter of 2018.
(2) Stockholders’ Equity
On January 15, 2003, the Bank completed its plan of conversion, and the Bank became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. The Company sold 59.6 million shares of common stock (par value $0.01$0.01 per share) at $10.00$10.00 per share. The Company received net proceeds in the amount of $567.2 million.$567.2 million.
In connection with the Bank’s commitment to its community, the plan of conversion provided for the establishment of a charitable foundation. ProvidentThe Bank donated $4.8$4.8 million in cash and 1.92 million of authorized but unissued shares of common stock to the foundation, which amounted to $24.0$24.0 million in aggregate. The Company recognized an expense, net of income
89


tax benefit, equal to the cash and fair value of the stock during 2003. Conversion costs were deferred and deducted from the proceeds of the shares sold in the offering.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


Upon completion of the plan of conversion, a “liquidation account” was established in an amount equal to the total equity of the Bank as of the latest practicable date prior to the conversion. The liquidation account was established to provide a limited priority claim to the assets of the Bank to “eligible account holders” and “supplemental eligible account holders” as defined in the Plan, who continue to maintain deposits in the Bank after the conversion. In the unlikely event of a complete liquidation of the Bank, and only in such event, each eligible account holder and supplemental eligible account holder would receive a liquidation distribution, prior to any payment to the holder of the Bank’s common stock. This distribution would be based upon each eligible account holder’sholder's and supplemental eligible account holder’s proportionate share of the then total remaining qualifying deposits. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the liquidation account, which is an off-balance sheet memorandum account, amounted to $11.5$7.2 million.

(3) Business Combinations
Lakeland Bancorp, Inc. Merger Agreement
On September 26, 2022, the Company, NL 239 Corp., a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“Merger Sub”), and Lakeland Bancorp, Inc. entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (as may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time in accordance with its terms, the “merger agreement”), pursuant to which the Company and Lakeland have agreed to combine their respective businesses.
Under the merger agreement, Merger Sub will merge with and into Lakeland, with Lakeland as the surviving entity (the “merger”), and as soon as reasonably practicable following the merger, Lakeland will merge with and into the Company, with the Company as the surviving entity (the “holdco merger”). At a date and time following the holdco merger as determined by the Company, Lakeland Bank, a New Jersey state-charted commercial bank and a wholly owned subsidiary of Lakeland (“Lakeland Bank”), will merge with and into the Bank, with the Bank as the surviving bank (the “bank merger” and, together with the merger and the holdco merger, the “mergers”). The Company as the surviving institution will have approximately $25 billion in total assets, $18 billion in total loans and $20 billion in total deposits with banking locations across northern and central New Jersey and in surrounding areas of New York and Pennsylvania.
In the merger, Lakeland shareholders will receive 0.8319 of a share of the Company’s common stock for each share of Lakeland common stock they own. Upon completion of the transaction, which remains subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions, Company shareholders will own approximately 58% and Lakeland shareholders will own approximately 42% of the combined company.
The Company has received stockholder approval to proceed with the merger at a special meeting of stockholders held on February 1, 2023. Lakeland has received shareholder approval to proceed with the merger at a special meeting of shareholders held on February 1, 2023. On December 20, 2023, the Company, along with Lakeland, agreed to extend their merger agreement to March 31, 2024, to provide additional time to obtain the required regulatory approvals.
(4) Restrictions on Cash and Due from Banks
Included in cash on hand and due from banks atas of December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 was $39.5 million$70,000, which represents cash collateral pledged to secure loan level swaps and $36.7 million, respectively, representing reserves required by banking regulations.risk participation agreements.


90
(4) Investment Securities


(5) Held to Maturity Debt Securities
Investment securitiesThe following tables present the amortized cost, gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses and the estimated fair value for held to maturity atdebt securities as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016 are summarized as follows2022 (in thousands):
 2023
 
Amortized
cost
Gross
unrealized
gains
Gross
unrealized
losses
Fair
value
Treasury Obligations$5,146 — 5,147 
Agency-sponsored obligations11,058 — (652)10,406 
State and municipal obligations339,816 244 (9,700)330,360 
Corporate obligations7,091 — (403)6,688 
$363,111 245 (10,755)352,601 
2017
Amortized
cost
 
Gross
unrealized
gains
 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
2022
Agency obligations$4,308
 
 (87) 4,221
Mortgage-backed securities382
 14
 
 396
Amortized
cost
Gross
unrealized
gains
Gross
unrealized
losses
Fair
value
Agency-sponsored obligations
State and municipal obligations
State and municipal obligations
State and municipal obligations462,942
 9,280
 (1,738) 470,484
Corporate obligations10,020
 1
 (83) 9,938
$477,652
 9,295
 (1,908) 485,039
$
 2016
 
Amortized
cost
 
Gross
unrealized
gains
 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 
Fair
value
Agency obligations$4,306
 2
 (83) 4,225
Mortgage-backed securities893
 31
 
 924
State and municipal obligations473,653
 6,635
 (5,436) 474,852
Corporate obligations9,331
 7
 (52) 9,286
 $488,183
 6,675
 (5,571) 489,287

The Company generally purchases securities for long-term investment purposes, and differences between carrying and fair values may fluctuate during the investment period. Investment securitiesAccrued interest on held to maturity having a carrying value of $409.7debt securities, which is excluded from the amortized cost, totaled $3.1 million and $384.8$3.4 million atas of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,December 31, 2022, respectively, were pledged to secure other borrowings, securities sold under repurchase agreements and government deposits.is presented within total accrued interest receivable on the consolidated statements of financial condition.
The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities held to maturity atdebt securities as of December 31, 20172023 by contractual maturity are shown below (in thousands). Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to prepayment or early call privileges of the issuer.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
 2023
 
Amortized
cost
Fair
value
Due in one year or less$32,659 32,619 
Due after one year through five years170,306 168,350 
Due after five years through ten years133,538 129,451 
Due after ten years26,608 22,181 
$363,111 352,601 
NotesThe allowance for credit losses on held to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Endedmaturity debt securities as of December 31, 2017, 20162023 and 2015


 2017
 
Amortized
cost
 
Fair
value
Due in one year or less$7,123
 7,147
Due after one year through five years67,352
 67,915
Due after five years through ten years260,937
 265,279
Due after ten years141,858
 144,302
 $477,270
 484,643
Mortgage-backed securities totaling $382,000 at2022 were $31,000 and $27,000, respectively, and are excluded from amortized cost and $396,000 at fair valuein the tables above. Accrued interest receivable on held to maturity debt securities are excluded from the table aboveestimate of credit losses.
The Company generally purchases securities for long-term investment purposes, and differences between carrying and fair values may fluctuate during the investment period. Held to maturity debt securities having a carrying value of $317.6 million and $340.2 million as their expected lives are expectedof December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, were pledged to be shorter than the contractual maturity date due to principal prepayments.secure municipal deposits.
During 2017,2023, the Company recognized gains of $60,000$45,000 and losses of $3,000$15,000 related to calls on securities in the held to maturity debt securities portfolio, with total proceeds from the calls totaling $32.9$11.6 million. There were no sales of securities from the held to maturity debt securities portfolio for the year ended December 31, 2017.2023.
91


For the 2016 period,2022, the Company recognized gains of $15,000$123,000 and no losses of $1,000 related to calls on securities in the held to maturity debt securities portfolio, with total proceeds from the calls totaling $45.9$39.2 million. There were no sales of securities from the held to maturity debt securities portfolio for the year ended December 31, 2016.2022.
For the 20152021 period, the Company recognized gains of $8,000$25,000 and no losses related to calls on certain securities in the held to maturity debt securities portfolio, with total proceeds from the calls totaling $27.0$36.0 million. There were no sales of securities from the held to maturity debt securities portfolio for the year ended December 31, 2015.
The following table represents the Company’s disclosure on investment securities held to maturity with temporary impairment (in thousands):
 December 31, 2017 Unrealized Losses
 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
Agency obligations$3,821
 (87) 
 
 3,821
 (87)
State and municipal obligations37,317
 (295) 49,488
 (1,443) 86,805
 (1,738)
Corporate obligations9,662
 (83) 
 

 9,662
 (83)
 $50,800
 (465) 49,488
 (1,443) 100,288
 (1,908)
 December 31, 2016 Unrealized Losses
 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
Agency obligations$3,525
 (83) 
 
 3,525
 (83)
State and municipal obligations172,152
 (5,132) 6,617
 (304) 178,769
 (5,436)
Corporate obligations4,697
 (52) 
 

 4,697
 (52)
 $180,374
 (5,267) 6,617
 (304) 186,991
 (5,571)
The Company estimates the loss projections for each non-agency mortgage-backed security by stressing the individual loans collateralizing the security and applying a range of expected default rates, loss severities, and prepayment speeds in conjunction with the underlying credit enhancement for each security. Based on specific assumptions about collateral and vintage, a range of possible cash flows was identified to determine whether other-than-temporary impairment existed during the year ended December 31, 2017. Based on its detailed review of the securities available for sale portfolio, the Company believes that as of December 31, 2017, securities with unrealized loss positions shown above do not represent impairments that are other-than-
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


temporary. The Company does not have the intent to sell securities in a temporary loss position at December 31, 2017, nor is it more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery.2021.
The number of securities in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 20172023 totaled 184,372, compared with 332 at439 as of December 31, 2016. 2022. The decrease in the number of securities in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2023 was due to lower current market interest rates on the intermediate part of the curve compared to rates as of December 31, 2022.
Management measures expected credit losses on held to maturity debt securities on a collective basis by security type. Management classifies the held to maturity debt securities portfolio into the following security types:
Agency-sponsored obligations;
Mortgage-backed securities;
State and municipal obligations; and
Corporate obligations.

All temporarily impaired investmentof the agency obligations held by the Company are issued by U.S. government entities and agencies. These securities are either explicitly or implicitly guaranteed by the U.S. government, are highly rated by major rating agencies and have a long history of no credit losses. The majority of the state and municipal and corporate obligations carry credit ratings from the rating agencies as of December 31, 2023 no lower than A and the Company had no securities rated BBB or worse by Moody’s Investors Service.
Credit Quality Indicators. The following table provides the amortized cost of held to maturity debt securities by credit rating as of December 31, 2023 (in thousands):
December 31, 2023
Total PortfolioAAAAAABBBNot RatedTotal
Treasury obligations$5,146 — — — — 5,146 
Agency-sponsored obligations11,058 — — — — 11,058 
State and municipal obligations43,749 156,438 137,231 — 2,398 339,816 
Corporate obligations504 2,510 4,052 — 25 7,091 
$60,457 158,948 141,283 — 2,423 363,111 
December 31, 2022
Total PortfolioAAAAAABBBNot RatedTotal
Agency-sponsored obligations$9,997 — — — — 9,997 
State and municipal obligations48,453 171,934 143,829 770 1,178 366,164 
Corporate obligations507 3,592 7,415 — 275 11,789 
$58,957 175,526 151,244 770 1,453 387,950 
Credit quality indicators are metrics that provide information regarding the relative credit risk of debt securities. As of December 31, 2023, the held to maturity debt securities portfolio was comprised of 17% rated AAA, 44% rated AA, 39% rated A, and less than 1% either below an A rating or not rated by Moody’s Investors Service or Standard and Poor’s. Securities not explicitly rated, such as U.S. Government mortgage-backed securities, were investment grade at December 31, 2017.grouped where possible under the credit rating of the issuer of the security.

92


(5) Securities(6) Available for Sale Debt Securities
SecuritiesThe following tables present the amortized cost, gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses and the fair value for available for sale atdebt securities as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016 are summarized as follows2022 (in thousands):
 2023
 
Amortized
cost
Gross
unrealized
gains
Gross
unrealized
losses
Fair
value
U.S. Treasury obligations$276,618 — (22,740)253,878 
Agency guaranteed obligations26,310 1,188 — 27,498 
Mortgage-backed securities1,462,159 377 (176,927)1,285,609 
Asset-backed securities31,809 594 (168)32,235 
State and municipal obligations64,454 — (7,870)56,584 
Corporate obligations40,448 — (6,140)34,308 
$1,901,798 2,159 (213,845)1,690,112 
2022
2017
Amortized
cost
Gross
unrealized
gains
Gross
unrealized
losses
Fair
value
U.S. Treasury obligations
Amortized
cost
 
Gross
unrealized
gains
 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value
Agency obligations$19,014
 
 (9) 19,005
Mortgage-backed securities993,548
 4,914
 (10,095) 988,367
Mortgage-backed securities
Mortgage-backed securities
Asset-backed securities
State and municipal obligations3,259
 129
 
 3,388
Corporate obligations26,047
 359
 (12) 26,394
Equity securities417
 241
 
 658
$1,042,285
 5,643
 (10,116) 1,037,812
$
 2016
 
Amortized
cost
 
Gross
unrealized
gains
 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value
U.S. Treasury obligations$7,995
 13
 
 8,008
Agency obligations57,123
 90
 (25) 57,188
Mortgage-backed securities952,992
 7,249
 (8,380) 951,861
State and municipal obligations3,727
 19
 (3) 3,743
Corporate obligations19,013
 35
 (11) 19,037
Equity securities397
 152
 
 549
 $1,041,247
 7,558
 (8,419) 1,040,386
SecuritiesAccrued interest on available for sale debt securities, which is excluded from the amortized cost, totaled $4.9 million and $4.8 million as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, and is presented within total accrued interest receivable on the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Available for sale debt securities having a carrying value of $939.4 million$1.13 billion and $720.4 million at$1.25 billion as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, respectively, arewere pledged to secure other borrowingsas collateral for municipal deposits and securities sold under repurchase agreements.
The amortized cost and fair value of securities available for sale atdebt securities as of December 31, 2017,2023, by contractual maturity, are shown below (in thousands). Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities due to prepayment or early call privileges of the issuer.
 2023
 
Amortized
cost
Fair
value
Due in one year or less$— — 
Due after one year through five years284,034 261,097 
Due after five years through ten years43,269 36,399 
Due after ten years54,217 47,274 
$381,520 344,770 
 2017
 
Amortized
cost
 
Fair
value
Due in one year or less$20,406
 20,390
Due after one year through five years3,009
 3,048
Due after five years through ten years24,905
 25,349
 $48,320
 48,787
Mortgage-backed securitiesInvestments which pay principal on a periodic basis totaling $993.5 million$1.52 billion at amortized cost and $988.4 million$1.35 billion at fair value are excluded from the table above as their expected lives are expectedlikely to be shorter than the contractual maturity date due to principal prepayments. Also excluded from the table above are equity securities of $417,000 at amortized cost and $658,000 at fair value.
During 2017, there were no sales or2023, proceeds from calls ofon securities fromin the available for sale portfolio.debt securities portfolio totaled $2.3 million with no gains and no losses recognized. For the 2016 period,2022, proceeds from the sale ofcalls on securities available for sale were $3.4 million resulting in gross gains of $95,000 and gross losses of $45,000; there were no calls of securities from the available for sale debt securities portfolio for the year ended December 31, 2016.totaled $5.4 million, with gains of $58,000 and no losses recognized.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

93

For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company did not incur an other-than-temporary impairment charge on securities available for sale.
The following table represents the Company’s disclosure on securities available for sale with temporary impairment (in thousands):


 December 31, 2017 Unrealized Losses
 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
Agency obligations$12,006
 (8) 6,999
 (1) 19,005
 (9)
Mortgage-backed securities420,746
 (3,936) 235,056
 (6,159) 655,802
 (10,095)
Corporate obligations
 
 989
 (12) 989
 (12)
 $432,752
 (3,944) 243,044
 (6,172) 675,796
 (10,116)
 December 31, 2016 Unrealized Losses
 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
 Fair value 
Gross
unrealized
losses
Agency obligations$14,000
 (25) 
 
 14,000
 (25)
Mortgage-backed securities553,629
 (8,377) 65
 (3) 553,694
 (8,380)
State and municipal obligations661
 (3) 
 
 661
 (3)
Corporate obligations
 

 990
 (11) 990
 (11)
 $568,290
 (8,405) 1,055
 (14) 569,345
 (8,419)
The Company estimates the loss projections for each non-agency mortgage-backed security by stressing the individual loans collateralizing the security and applying a range of expected default rates, loss severities, and prepayment speeds in conjunction with the underlying credit enhancement for each security. Based on specific assumptions about collateral and vintage, a range of possible cash flows was identified to determine whether other-than-temporary impairment existed during the year ended December 31, 2017. Based on its detailed review of the securities available for sale portfolio, the Company believes that as of December 31, 2017, securities with unrealized loss positions shown above do not represent impairments that are other-than-temporary. The Company does not have the intent to sell securities in a temporary loss position at December 31, 2017, nor is it more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery.
The number of securities in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 20172023 totaled 122,436, compared with 87 at475 as of December 31, 2016. There were two private label mortgage-backed2022. The decrease in the number of securities in an unrealized loss position atas of December 31, 2017, with an amortized cost2023 was due to lower current market interest rates on the intermediate part of $99,000 and unrealized losses totaling $2,000. Both private label mortgage-backed securities were investment grade atthe curve compared to rates as of December 31, 2017.2022.



PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
94
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015




(6)(7) Loans Receivable and Allowance for LoanCredit Losses
Loans receivable atas of December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
20232022
Mortgage loans:
Commercial$4,512,411 4,316,185 
Multi-family1,812,500 1,513,818 
Construction653,246 715,494 
Residential1,164,956 1,177,698 
Total mortgage loans8,143,113 7,723,195 
Commercial loans2,442,406 2,233,670 
Consumer loans299,164 304,780 
Total gross loans10,884,683 10,261,645 
Premiums on purchased loans1,474 1,380 
Net deferred fees(12,456)(14,142)
Total loans$10,873,701 10,248,883 
 2017 2016
Mortgage loans:   
Residential$1,142,347
 1,211,672
Commercial2,171,056
 1,978,569
Multi-family1,403,885
 1,402,054
Construction392,580
 264,814
Total mortgage loans5,109,868
 4,857,109
Commercial loans1,745,138
 1,630,444
Consumer loans473,957
 516,755
Total gross loans7,328,963
 7,004,308
Purchased credit-impaired ("PCI") loans969
 1,272
Premiums on purchased loans4,029
 4,968
Unearned discounts(36) (39)
Net deferred fees(8,207) (7,023)
Total loans$7,325,718
 7,003,486
Accrued interest on loans totaled $50.9 million and $43.8 million as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, and is presented within total accrued interest receivable on the consolidated statements of financial condition.
The Bank does not, as a general practice, make loans to its directors, or to their immediate family members and related interests. As of December 31, 2023, As of December 31, 2023, the Bank had aggregate loans and loan commitments totaling $3.6 million to its executive officers or their related entities. These loans and loan commitments were made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing for comparable transactions with the general public and do not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features. It is the policy of the Bank that no loan or extension of credit of any type shall be made to any member of the board of directors or their immediate family, or to any entity which is controlled by a member of the board of directors or their immediate family and none existed as of December 31, 2023.
Premiums and discounts on purchased loans are amortized or accreted over the lives of the loans as an adjustment to yield. Required reductions due to loan prepayments are charged against or credited to interest income.income, as appropriate. For the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015, $1.0 million, $1.3 million and $1.1 million decreased interest income, respectively,2021, as a result of prepayments and normal amortization.amortization, interest income decreased $206,000, $270,000 and $604,000, respectively.
The following table summarizestables summarize the aging of loans receivable by portfolio segment and class of loans excluding PCI loans (in thousands):
 As of December 31, 2023
 30-59
 Days
60-89 
Days
90 days or more past due and
accruing
Non-accrualTotal 
Past Due
Current
Total Loans
Receivable
Non-accrual loans with no related allowance
Mortgage loans:
Commercial$825 — — 5,151 5,976 4,506,435 4,512,411 5,151 
Multi-family3,815 1,635 — 744 6,194 1,806,306 1,812,500 744 
Construction— — — 771 771 652,475 653,246 771 
Residential3,429 1,208 — 853 5,490 1,159,466 1,164,956 853 
Total mortgage loans8,069 2,843 — 7,519 18,431 8,124,682 8,143,113 7,519 
Commercial loans998 198 — 41,487 42,683 2,399,723 2,442,406 36,281 
Consumer loans875 275 — 633 1,783 297,381 299,164 633 
Total gross loans$9,942 3,316 — 49,639 62,897 10,821,786 10,884,683 44,433 
95


 At December 31, 2017
 30-59 Days 60-89 Days Non-accrual 
90 days or more past due and
accruing
 Total  Past Due Current 
Total Loans
Receivable
Mortgage loans:            
Residential$7,809
 4,325
 8,105
 
 20,239
 1,122,108
 1,142,347
Commercial1,486
 
 7,090
 
 8,576
 2,162,480
 2,171,056
Multi-family
 
 
 
 
 1,403,885
 1,403,885
Construction
 
 
 
 
 392,580
 392,580
Total mortgage loans9,295
 4,325
 15,195
 
 28,815
 5,081,053
 5,109,868
Commercial loans551
 406
 17,243
 
 18,200
 1,726,938
 1,745,138
Consumer loans2,465
 487
 2,491
 
 5,443
 468,514
 473,957
Total gross loans$12,311
 5,218
 34,929
 
 52,458
 7,276,505
 7,328,963
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


At December 31, 2016
30-59 Days 60-89 Days Non-accrual 90 days or more past due and
accruing
 Total  Past Due Current 
Total Loans
Receivable
30-59 
Days
60-89 
Days
90 days or more past due and
accruing
Non-accrualTotal
Past Due
Current
Total Loans
Receivable
Non-accrual loans with no related allowance
Mortgage loans:             
Residential$5,891
 6,563
 12,021
 
 24,475
 1,187,197
 1,211,672
Commercial
Commercial
Commercial
 80
 7,493
 
 7,573
 1,970,996
 1,978,569
Multi-family
 
 553
 
 553
 1,401,501
 1,402,054
Construction
 
 2,517
 
 2,517
 262,297
 264,814
Residential
Total mortgage loans5,891
 6,643
 22,584
 
 35,118
 4,821,991
 4,857,109
Commercial loans1,656
 357
 16,787
 
 18,800
 1,611,644
 1,630,444
Consumer loans2,561
 1,199
 3,030
 
 6,790
 509,965
 516,755
Total gross loans$10,108
 8,199
 42,401
 
 60,708
 6,943,600
 7,004,308
Included in loans receivable are loans for which the accrual of interest income has been discontinued due to deterioration in the financial condition of the borrowers. Generally, accrued interest is written off by reversing interest income during the quarter the loan is moved from an accrual to a non-accrual status. The principal amount of these nonaccrualnon-accrual loans was $34.9$49.6 million and $42.4$58.5 million atas of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, respectively. There were no loans ninety days90-days or greater past due and still accruing interest atas of December 31, 20172023 and 2016.2022.
If the non-accrual loans had performed in accordance with their original terms, interest income would have increased by $1.9$1.6 million, $2.2$1.0 million and $1.2 million, for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, respectively.
The amount of cash basis interest income that was recognized on impaired loans duringactivity in the allowance for credit losses for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 is as follows (in thousands):
 Years Ended December 31,
 202320222021
Balance at beginning of period$88,023 80,740 101,466 
Cumulative effect of adopting ASU 2022-02(594)— — 
Provision charge (benefit) for credit losses on loans27,900 8,400 (24,300)
Recoveries of loans previously charged off2,292 5,431 9,030 
Loans charged off(10,421)(6,548)(5,456)
Balance at end of period$107,200 88,023 80,740 

96


The activity in the allowance for credit losses by portfolio segment for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows (in thousands):
 For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
 
Mortgage
loans
Commercial
loans
Consumer
loans
Total
Portfolio
Segments
Balance at beginning of period$58,218 27,413 2,392 88,023 
Cumulative effect of adopting ASU 2022-02(510)(43)(41)(594)
Provision charge (benefit) for credit losses on loans16,877 11,159 (136)27,900 
Recoveries of loans previously charged off546 1,309 437 2,292 
Loans charged off(1,724)(8,363)(334)(10,421)
Balance at end of period$73,407 31,475 2,318 107,200 
 For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
 
Mortgage
loans
Commercial
loans
Consumer
loans
Total
Portfolio
Segments
Balance at beginning of period$52,104 26,343 2,293 80,740 
Provision charge (benefit) for credit losses on loans11,087 (2,489)(198)8,400 
Recoveries of loans previously charged off585 4,192 654 5,431 
Loans charged off(5,558)(633)(357)(6,548)
Balance at end of period$58,218 27,413 2,392 88,023 
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded an $27.9 million provision for credit losses on loans, compared with a provision for credit losses of $8.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase in the year-over-year provision for credit losses was $1.8 million, $1.5 millionprimarily attributable to a worsened economic forecast and $1.9 million respectively.related deterioration in the projected commercial property price indices used in our CECL model.
The following table summarizes the Company's gross charge-offs recorded for the year ended December 31, 2023 by year of origination (in thousands):
20232022202120202019Prior to 2019Total Loans
Mortgage loans:
Commercial$— — — — — 1,700 1,700 
Residential— — — — — 24 24 
Total mortgage loans$— — — — — 1,724 1,724 
Commercial loans— — — 5,000 — 3,363 8,363 
Consumer loans (1)
24 — — — — 13 37 
Total gross loans$24 — — 5,000 — 5,100 10,124 
(1) Duringthe year ended December 31, 2023, charge-offs on consumer overdraft accounts totaled $297,000, which are not included in the table above.
The Company defines an impaired loan as a non-accrual, non-homogeneous loan greater than $1.0 million, foror which, it is probable, based on current information, that the Bank willit is not expected to collect all amounts due under the contractual terms of the loan agreement. ImpairedAs of December 31, 2023, there were 17 impaired loans also include all loans modified as troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”). totaling $42.3 million that were individually evaluated for impairment.
A loanfinancial asset is deemedconsidered collateral-dependent when the debtor is experiencing financial difficulty and repayment is expected to be a TDR when a loan modification resulting in a concession is made byprovided substantially through the Bank in an effort to mitigate potential loss arising from a borrower’s financial difficulty. Smaller balance homogeneoussale or operation of the collateral. For all classes of loans including residential mortgages and other consumer loans are evaluated collectively for impairment and are excluded fromdeemed collateral-dependent, the definition of impaired loans, unless modified as TDRs. The Company separately calculatesestimates expected credit losses based on the reserve for loan loss on impaired loans. The Company may recognize impairment of a loan based upon: (1) the present value of expected cash flows discounted at the effective interest rate; or (2) if a loan is collateral dependent, thecollateral’s fair value of collateral; or (3) the market priceless any selling costs. A specific allocation of the loan. Additionally, if impaired loans have risk characteristics in common, those loans may be aggregated and historical statistics may be used asallowance for credit losses is established for each collateral-dependent loan with a means of measuring those impaired loans.carrying balance greater than the collateral’s fair value, less estimated selling costs. In most cases, the Company records a partial charge-off to reduce
97


the loan’s carrying value to the collateral’s fair value less estimated selling costs. The Company uses third-party appraisals to determine the fair value of the underlying collateral in its analysis of collateral dependent impairedcollateral-dependent loans. A third-party appraisal is generally ordered as soon as a loan is designated as a collateral dependent impairedcollateral-dependent loan and updated annually, or more frequently if required.
A specific allocation of the allowance for loan losses is established for each impaired loan with a carrying balance greater than the collateral’s fair value, less estimated costs to sell. Charge-offs are generally taken for the amount of the specific allocation when operations associated with the respective property cease and it is determined that collection of amounts due will be derived primarily from the disposition of the collateral. At each fiscal quarter end, if a loan is designated as a collateral dependent impaired loancollateral-dependent and the third partythird-party appraisal has not yet been received, an evaluation of all available collateral is made using the best information available at the time, including rent rolls, borrower financial statements and tax returns, prior appraisals, management’s knowledge of the market and collateral, and internally prepared collateral valuations based upon market assumptions regarding vacancy and capitalization rates, each as and where applicable. Once the appraisal is received and reviewed, the specific reserves are adjusted to reflect the appraised value.value and evaluated for charge offs. The Company believes there have been no significant time lapses as a result ofresulting from this process.
AtAs of December 31, 2017, there were 1492023, impaired loans totaling $52.0totaled $42.3 million with related specific reserves of which 141 loans totaling $41.7 million were TDRs. Included in this total were 125 TDRs related to 121 borrowers totaling $31.7 million that were performing in accordance with their restructured terms and which continued to accrue interest at$2.9 million. As of December 31, 2017. At2023, the Company had collateral-dependent impaired loans with a fair value of $24.1 million secured by commercial real estate. As of December 31, 2016, there were 141 impaired2022, the Company had collateral-dependent loans totaling $52.0with a fair value of $21.3 million of which 136 loans totaling $41.6secured by commercial real estate, $1.9 million were TDRs. Included in this total were 114 TDRs related to 110 borrowers totaling $29.9 million that were performing in accordance with their restructured termssecured by business assets and which continued to accrue interest at December 31, 2016.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


Loans receivable summarized$800,000 secured by portfolio segment and impairment method, excluding PCI loans are as follows (in thousands):
 At December 31, 2017
 
Mortgage
loans
 
Commercial
loans
 
Consumer
loans
 
Total
Portfolio
Segments
Individually evaluated for impairment$28,459
 21,223
 2,359
 52,041
Collectively evaluated for impairment5,081,409
 1,723,915
 471,598
 7,276,922
Total gross loans$5,109,868
 1,745,138
 473,957
 7,328,963
 At December 31, 2016
 
Mortgage
loans
 
Commercial
loans
 
Consumer
loans
 
Total
Portfolio
Segments
Individually evaluated for impairment$29,551
 20,255
 2,213
 52,019
Collectively evaluated for impairment4,827,558
 1,610,189
 514,542
 6,952,289
Total gross loans$4,857,109
 1,630,444
 516,755
 7,004,308

The allowance for loan losses is summarized by portfolio segment and impairment classification, excluding PCI loans as follows (in thousands):
 At December 31, 2017
 
Mortgage
loans
 
Commercial
loans
 
Consumer
loans
 
Total
Portfolio
Segments
 Unallocated Total
Individually evaluated for impairment$1,486
 1,134
 70
 2,690
 
 2,690
Collectively evaluated for impairment26,566
 28,680
 2,259
 57,505
 
 57,505
Total$28,052
 29,814
 2,329
 60,195
 
 60,195

 At December 31, 2016
 
Mortgage
loans
 
Commercial
loans
 
Consumer
loans
 
Total
Portfolio
Segments
 Unallocated Total
Individually evaluated for impairment$1,986
 268
 80
 2,334
 
 2,334
Collectively evaluated for impairment27,640
 28,875
 3,034
 59,549
 
 59,549
Total$29,626
 29,143
 3,114
 61,883
 
 61,883
residential real estate.
Loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties that are considered TDRs primarily involve lowering the monthly payments on such loans through either a reduction indifficulty may include interest rate below a market rate, an extension of the term of the loan without a corresponding adjustment to the risk premium reflected in the interest rate, or a combination of these two methods. These modifications generally do not result in the forgiveness ofreductions, principal or accrued interest.interest forgiveness, forbearance, term extensions, and other actions intended to minimize economic loss and to avoid foreclosure or repossession of collateral. In addition, the Companymanagement attempts to obtain additional collateral or guarantor support when modifying such loans. If the borrower has demonstrated performance under the previous terms and our underwriting process shows the borrower has the capacity to continue to perform under the restructured terms, the loan will continue to accrue interest. Non-accruing restructured loans may be returned to accrual status when there has been a sustained period of repayment performance (generally six consecutive months of payments) and both principal and interest are deemed collectible.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARYThe following illustrates the most common loan modifications by loan classes offered by the Company that are required to be disclosed pursuant to the requirements of ASU 2022-02:
Notes
Loan ClassesModification types
CommercialTerm extension, interest rate reductions, payment delay, or combination thereof. These modifications extend the term of the loan, lower the payment amount, or otherwise delay payments during a defined period for the purpose of providing borrowers additional time to return to compliance with the original loan term.
Residential Mortgage/ Home EquityForbearance period greater than six months. These modifications require reduced or no payments during the forbearance period for the purpose of providing borrowers additional time to return to compliance with the original loan term, as well as term extension and rate adjustment. These modifications extend the term of the loan and provides for an adjustment to the interest rate, which reduces the monthly payment requirement.
Automobile/ Direct InstallmentTerm extension greater than three months. These modifications extend the term of the loan, which reduces the monthly payment requirement.
Effective January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU 2022-02, “Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures” (“ASU 2022-02”), which eliminated the accounting guidance for TDRs while enhancing disclosure requirements for certain loan refinancing and restructurings by creditors when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. This guidance was applied on a modified retrospective basis. Upon adoption of this guidance, the Company no longer establishes a specific reserve for loan modifications to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. Instead, these loan modifications are included in their respective pool and 2015


a projected loss rate is applied to the current loan balance to arrive at the quantitative and qualitative baseline portion of the allowance for credit losses. As a result, the Company recorded a $594,000 reduction to the allowance for credit losses, which resulted in a $433,000 cumulative effect adjustment increase, net of tax, to retained earnings.
The following tables presenttable presents the amortized cost basis of loan modifications made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty for the year ended December 31, 2023 (in thousands):
98


Year Ended December 31, 2023
Term ExtensionInterest Rate ChangeInterest Rate Change and Term ExtensionTotal% of Total Class of Loans and Leases
Mortgage loans:
Multi-family$— — 1,508 1,508 0.08 %
Total mortgage loans— — 1,508 1,508 0.02 
Commercial loans3,771 — 1,250 5,021 0.21 
Total gross loans$3,771 — 2,758 6,529 0.06 %
The following table presents the financial effect of loan modifications made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty for the year ended December 31, 2023 (in thousands):
Weighted Average Months of Term ExtensionWeighted Average Rate Increase
Mortgage loans:
Multi-family22.23 %
Total mortgage loans22.23 
Commercial loans100.20 
Total gross loans90.61 %
There were no loan modifications made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty for year ended December 31, 2023, that subsequently defaulted.
The following table presents the aging analysis of loan modifications made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty for the year ended December 31, 2023 (in thousands):
Current30-59 Days Past Due60-89 Days Past Due90 days or more Past DueNon- AccrualTotal
Mortgage loans:
Multi-family$1,508 — — — — 1,508 
Total mortgage loans1,508 — — — — 1,508 
Commercial loans5,021 — — — — 5,021 
Total gross loans$6,529 — — — — 6,529 
Prior to our adoption of ASU 2022-02, we accounted for a modification to the contractual terms of a loan that resulted in granting a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties as a TDR. However, our TDR accounting described herein was suspended for most of our loss mitigation activities through our election to account for certain eligible loss mitigation activities occurring between March 2020 and January 1, 2022 under the COVID-19 relief granted pursuant to the CARES Act and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. Effective January 1, 2023, we adopted ASU 2022-02, which eliminated TDR accounting prospectively for all restructurings occurring on or after January 1, 2023.

99


The following table presents the number of loans modified as TDRs during the yearsyear ended December 31, 2017 and 20162022 and their balances immediately prior to the modification date and post-modification as of December 31, 2017 and 2016.2022:
 Year Ended December 31, 2022
Troubled Debt Restructurings
Number of
Loans
Pre-Modification
Outstanding
Recorded
Investment
Post-Modification
Outstanding
Recorded
Investment
 ($ in thousands)
Mortgage loans:
Multi-Family$1,618 1,566 
Residential265 198 
Total mortgage loans1,883 1,764 
Commercial loans209 143 
Consumer loans108 85 
Total restructured loans$2,200 1,992 
  Year Ended December 31, 2017
Troubled Debt Restructurings 
Number of
Loans
 
Pre-Modification
Outstanding
Recorded
Investment
 
Post-Modification
Outstanding
Recorded
Investment
  ($ in thousands)
Mortgage loans:      
Residential 5
 $2,468
 2,260
Total mortgage loans 5
 $2,468
 2,260
Commercial loans 1
 874
 874
Consumer loans 2
 262
 257
Total restructured loans 8
 $3,604
 3,391
  Year Ended December 31, 2016
Troubled Debt Restructurings 
Number of
Loans
 
Pre-Modification
Outstanding
Recorded
Investment
 
Post-Modification
Outstanding
Recorded
Investment
    ($ in thousands)  
Commercial loans 1
 $1,300
 1,300
Total restructured loans 1
 $1,300
 1,300

All TDRs are impaired loans, which are individually evaluated for impairment, as previously discussed. Estimated collateral values of collateral dependent impaired loans modified during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 exceeded the carrying amounts of such loans. During the year ended December 31, 2017, there were $5.12022, $5.5 million of charge-offs were recorded on collateral dependent impaired loans. There were no charge-offs recorded on collateral dependent impaired loans for the same period last year. The allowance forwas one loan losses associated with the TDRs presented in the preceding tables totaled $166,000 and $187,000 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively and were included in the allowance for loan losses for loans individually evaluated for impairment.
The TDRs presented in the preceding tables had a weighted average modified interest rate of approximately 4.18% and 5.25%, compared to a yield of 4.19% and 4.25% prior to modification for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
There were no loans modified as TDRs within the previous 12 months from both December 31, 2017 and 2016,totaling $143,000 which had a payment default (90 days or more past due) duringfor a loan modified as a TDR within the years ended12-month period ending December 31, 2017 and 2016.
2022. For TDRs that subsequently default, are considered collateral dependent impaired loans and are evaluated for impairment based on the estimated fair value ofCompany determined the underlying collateral less expected selling costs.
PCI loans are loans acquired at a discount primarily due to deteriorated credit quality. These loans are accounted for at fair value, based upon the present value of expected future cash flows, with no related allowance for loan losses. At December 31, 2017, PCI loans totaled $1.0 million, compared to $1.3 million at December 31, 2016. The $303,000 decrease from December 31, 2016 was largely due to the full repayment and greater than projected cash flows on certain PCI loans.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


The following table summarizes the changes in the accretable yield for PCI loans for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands):
  Year ended December 31,
  2017 2016
Beginning balance $200
 676
Acquisition 
 
Accretion (320) (1,417)
Reclassification from non-accretable difference 221
 941
Ending balance $101
 200
The activity in the allowance for loan losses for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 is as follows (in thousands):
 Years Ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
Balance at beginning of period$61,883
 61,424
 61,734
Provision charged to operations5,600
 5,400
 4,350
Recoveries of loans previously charged off1,653
 2,009
 4,168
Loans charged off(8,941) (6,950) (8,828)
Balance at end of period$60,195
 61,883
 61,424

The activity in the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows (in thousands):
 For the Year Ended December 31, 2017
 
Mortgage
loans
 
Commercial
loans
 
Consumer
loans
 
Total
Portfolio
Segments
 Unallocated Total
Balance at beginning of period$29,626
 29,143
 3,114
 61,883
 
 61,883
Provision charged to operations(1,139) 7,058
 (319) 5,600
 
 5,600
Recoveries of loans previously charged off66
 800
 787
 1,653
 
 1,653
Loans charged off(501) (7,187) (1,253) (8,941) 
 (8,941)
Balance at end of period$28,052
 29,814
 2,329
 60,195
 
 60,195
 For the Year Ended December 31, 2016
 
Mortgage
loans
 
Commercial
loans
 
Consumer
loans
 
Total
Portfolio
Segments
 Unallocated Total
Balance at beginning of period$32,094
 25,829
 3,501
 61,424
 
 61,424
Provision charged to operations(2,028) 7,606
 (178) 5,400
 
 5,400
Recoveries of loans previously charged off628
 570
 811
 2,009
 
 2,009
Loans charged off(1,068) (4,862) (1,020) (6,950) 
 (6,950)
Balance at end of period$29,626
 29,143
 3,114
 61,883
 
 61,883

PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


Impaired loans receivable by class, excluding PCI loans are summarized as follows (in thousands):
 At December 31, 2017 At December 31, 2016
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Related
Allowance
 
Average
Recorded
Investment
 
Interest
Income
Recognized
 
Unpaid
Principal
Balance
 
Recorded
Investment
 
Related
Allowance
 
Average
Recorded
Investment
 
Interest
Income
Recognized
Loans with no related allowance                   
Mortgage loans:                   
Residential$13,239
 10,477
 
 10,552
 479
 $10,691
 7,881
 
 8,027
 484
Commercial5,037
 4,908
 
 5,022
 12
 1,556
 1,556
 
 1,586
 40
Multi-family
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
 
 
 
 
 2,553
 2,517
 
 2,514
 
Total18,276
 15,385
 
 15,574
 491
 14,800
 11,954
 
 12,127
 524
Commercial loans19,196
 14,984
 
 15,428
 395
 21,830
 18,874
 
 13,818
 259
Consumer loans1,582
 1,041
 
 1,150
 69
 1,493
 981
 
 1,026
 59
Total loans$39,054
 31,410
 
 32,152
 955
 $38,123
 31,809
 
 26,971
 842
Loans with an allow-ance recorded                   
Mortgage loans:                   
Residential$13,052
 12,010
 1,351
 12,150
 475
 $14,169
 13,520
 1,716
 13,705
 519
Commercial1,064
 1,064
 135
 1,076
 54
 4,138
 4,077
 270
 4,111
 55
Multi-family
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total14,116
 13,074
 1,486
 13,226
 529
 18,307
 17,597
 1,986
 17,816
 574
Commercial loans7,097
 6,239
 1,134
 7,318
 208
 1,381
 1,381
 268
 5,956
 4
Consumer loans1,329
 1,318
 70
 1,349
 64
 1,242
 1,232
 80
 1,259
 66
Total loans$22,542
 20,631
 2,690
 21,893
 801
 $20,930
 20,210
 2,334
 25,031
 644
Total                   
Mortgage loans:                   
Residential$26,291
 22,487
 1,351
 22,702
 954
 $24,860
 21,401
 1,716
 21,732
 1,003
Commercial6,101
 5,972
 135
 6,098
 66
 5,694
 5,633
 270
 5,697
 95
Multi-family
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Construction
 
 
 
 
 2,553
 2,517
 
 2,514
 
Total32,392
 28,459
 1,486
 28,800
 1,020
 33,107
 29,551
 1,986
 29,943
 1,098
Commercial loans26,293
 21,223
 1,134
 22,746
 603
 23,211
 20,255
 268
 19,774
 263
Consumer loans2,911
 2,359
 70
 2,499
 133
 2,735
 2,213
 80
 2,285
 125
Total loans$61,596
 52,041
 2,690
 54,045
 1,756
 $59,053
 52,019
 2,334
 52,002
 1,486

At December 31, 2017, impaired loans consisted of 149 residential, commercial and commercial mortgage loans totaling $52.0 million, of which 24 loans totaling $20.3 million were included in nonaccrual loans. At December 31, 2016, impaired loans consisted of 141 residential, commercial and commercial mortgage loans totaling $52.0 million, of which 27 loans totaling $22.1 million were included in nonaccrual loans. Specific allocationsamount of the allowance for loanthe respective loans in accordance with the accounting policy for the allowance for credit losses attributable to impairedon loans individually evaluated for impairment.
As allowed by CECL, loans acquired by the Company that experience more-than-insignificant deterioration in credit quality after origination, are classified as PCD loans. As of December 31, 2023, the balance of PCD loans totaled $2.7$165.1 million and $2.3 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. At December 31, 2017 and 2016, impaired loans for which there was nowith a related allowance for loancredit losses totaled $31.4 million and $31.8 million, respectively.of $1.7 million. The average balancesbalance of impairedPCD loans during the years endedas of December 31, 2017 and 2016 were $54.02022, was $193.0 million and $52.0 million, respectively.with a related allowance for credit losses of $1.7 million.
In the normal course of conducting its business, the Bank extends credit to meet the financing needs of its customers through commitments. Commitments and contingent liabilities, such as commitments to extend credit (including loan commitments of $1.71 billion and $1.55 billion, at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and undisbursed home equity and personal credit lines of $270.9 million and $279.8 million, at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively) exist, which are not reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. These instruments involve elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated financial statements. The Bank uses the same credit policies and collateral requirements in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet loans. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since the commitments may expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


The Bank evaluates each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the Bank upon extension of credit, is based on management’s credit evaluation of the borrower.
The Bank grants residential real estate loans on single- and multi-family dwellings to borrowers primarily in New Jersey. Its borrowers’ abilities to repay their obligations are dependent upon various factors, including the borrowers’ income and net worth, cash flows generated by the underlying collateral, value of the underlying collateral, and priority of the Bank’s lien on the property. Such factors are dependent upon various economic conditions and individual circumstances beyond the Bank’s control; the Bank is therefore subject to risk of loss. The Bank believes that its lending policies and procedures adequately minimize the potential exposure to such risks and that adequate provisions for loan losses are provided for all known and inherent risks. Collateral and/or guarantees are required for virtually all loans.
The CompanyManagement utilizes an internal nine-point risk rating system to summarize its loan portfolio into categories with similar risk characteristics. Loans deemed to be “acceptable quality” are rated 1 through 4, with a rating of 1 established for loans with minimal risk. Loans that are deemed to be of “questionable quality” are rated 5 (watch) or 6 (special mention). Loans with adverse classifications (substandard, doubtful or loss) are rated 7, 8 or 9, respectively. Commercial mortgage, commercial, multi-family and construction loans are rated individually, and each lending officer is responsible for risk rating loans in their portfolio. These risk ratings are then reviewed by the department manager and/or the Chief Lending Officer and by the Credit Department. The risk ratings are also confirmedreviewed periodically through periodic loan review examinations which are currently performed by an independent third-party. Reports by the independent third-party are presented directly to the Audit Committee of the Boardboard of Directors.directors.
Loans receivableThe Company participated in the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) through the United States Department of the Treasury and Small Business Administration. PPP loans were fully guaranteed by credit quality risk rating indicator, excluding PCIthe SBA and were eligible for forgiveness by the SBA to the extent that the proceeds were used to cover eligible payroll costs, interest costs, rent, and utility costs over a period of up to 24 weeks after the loan was made as long as certain conditions were met regarding employee retention and compensation levels. PPP loans deemed eligible for forgiveness by the SBA were repaid by the SBA to the Company. Eligibility ended for this program in May of 2021. PPP loans are included in our commercial loan portfolio. As of December 31, 2023, the Company secured 2,067 PPP loans for its customers totaling $682.0 million, which includes both the initial round and the second round of PPP. As of December 31, 2023, 2,054 PPP loans totaling $679.4 million were forgiven. The balance as followsof December 31, 2023 for PPP loans was $2.5 million.
100


The following table summarizes the Company's gross loans held for investment by year of origination and internally assigned credit grades (in thousands):
Gross Loans Held for Investment by Year of Origination
as of December 31, 2023
20232022202120202019Prior to 2019Revolving LoansRevolving loans to term loansTotal Loans
Commercial Mortgage
Special mention$— 10,926 3,048 28,511 10,558 24,598 4,500 — 82,141 
Substandard482 — — — — 9,599 434 — 10,515 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified482 10,926 3,048 28,511 10,558 34,197 4,934 — 92,656 
Pass/Watch628,709 883,149 677,464 470,257 470,971 1,166,205 90,760 32,240 4,419,755 
Total commercial mortgage$629,191 894,075 680,512 498,768 481,529 1,200,402 95,694 32,240 4,512,411 
Multi-family
Special mention$— — — — — 9,500 — — 9,500 
Substandard3,253 — — — — — — — 3,253 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified3,253 — — — — 9,500 — — 12,753 
Pass/Watch340,842 172,244 184,136 271,878 230,456 592,470 6,115 1,606 1,799,747 
Total multi-family$344,095 172,244 184,136 271,878 230,456 601,970 6,115 1,606 1,812,500 
Construction
Special mention$— — — — — — — — — 
Substandard— — — — — 771 — — 771 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified— — — — — 771 — — 771 
Pass/Watch41,209 342,890 185,034 68,603 1,339 13,400 — — 652,475 
Total construction$41,209 342,890 185,034 68,603 1,339 14,171 — — 653,246 
Residential (1)
Special mention$— — — — — 1,208 — — 1,208 
Substandard— — — — — 1,285 — — 1,285 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified— — — — — 2,493 — — 2,493 
Pass/Watch96,259 141,683 200,111 195,964 89,654 438,792 — — 1,162,463 
Total residential$96,259 141,683 200,111 195,964 89,654 441,285 — — 1,164,956 
Total Mortgage
Special mention$— 10,926 3,048 28,511 10,558 35,306 4,500 — 92,849 
Substandard3,735 — — — — 11,655 434 — 15,824 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
101


Gross Loans Held for Investment by Year of Origination
as of December 31, 2023
Gross Loans Held for Investment by Year of Origination
as of December 31, 2023
202320232022202120202019Prior to 2019Revolving LoansRevolving loans to term loansTotal Loans
Loss
Total criticized and classified
Pass/Watch
Total Mortgage
At December 31, 2017
Residential 
Commercial
mortgages
 
Multi-
family
 Construction 
Total
mortgages
 
Commercial
loans
 
Consumer
loans
 Total loans
Commercial
Commercial
Commercial
Special mention
Special mention
Special mention$4,325
 19,172
 15
 
 23,512
 20,738
 486
 44,736
Substandard8,105
 25,069
 
 
 33,174
 29,734
 2,491
 65,399
Doubtful
 
 
 
 
 428
 
 428
Loss
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total classified and criticized12,430
 44,241
 15
 
 56,686
 50,900
 2,977
 110,563
Acceptable/watch1,129,917
 2,126,815
 1,403,870
 392,580
 5,053,182
 1,694,238
 470,980
 7,218,400
Total outstanding loans$1,142,347
 2,171,056
 1,403,885
 392,580
 5,109,868
 1,745,138
 473,957
 7,328,963
Total criticized and classified
Pass/Watch
Total commercial
Consumer (1)
Consumer (1)
Consumer (1)
Special mention
Special mention
Special mention
Substandard
Doubtful
Loss
Total criticized and classified
Pass/Watch
Total consumer
Total Loans
Total Loans
Total Loans
Special mention
Special mention
Special mention
Substandard
Doubtful
Loss
Total criticized and classified
Pass/Watch
Total gross loans
(1) For residential and consumer loans, the Company assigns internal credit grades based on the delinquency status of each loan.(1) For residential and consumer loans, the Company assigns internal credit grades based on the delinquency status of each loan.

102


 At December 31, 2016
 Residential 
Commercial
mortgages
 
Multi-
family
 Construction 
Total
mortgages
 
Commercial
loans
 
Consumer
loans
 Total loans
Special mention$6,563
 25,329
 563
 
 32,455
 14,840
 1,242
 48,537
Substandard12,021
 23,011
 553
 2,517
 38,102
 47,255
 2,940
 88,297
Doubtful
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Loss
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total classified and criticized18,584
 48,340
 1,116
 2,517
 70,557
 62,095
 4,182
 136,834
Acceptable/watch1,193,088
 1,930,229
 1,400,938
 262,297
 4,786,552
 1,568,349
 512,573
 6,867,474
Total outstanding loans$1,211,672
 1,978,569
 1,402,054
 264,814
 4,857,109
 1,630,444
 516,755
 7,004,308


Gross Loans Held for Investment by Year of Origination
as of December 31, 2022
20222021202020192018Prior to 2018Revolving LoansRevolving loans to term loansTotal Loans
Commercial Mortgage
Special mention$— — 3,071 26,809 52,509 14,740 — — 97,129 
Substandard— — — — 18,020 11,774 434 — 30,228 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified— — 3,071 26,809 70,529 26,514 434 — 127,357 
Pass/Watch951,367 630,584 567,448 546,474 218,620 1,164,854 94,716 14,765 4,188,828 
Total commercial mortgage$951,367 630,584 570,519 573,283 289,149 1,191,368 95,150 14,765 4,316,185 
Multi-family
Special mention$— — — — — 9,730 — — 9,730 
Substandard— — — — — 2,356 — — 2,356 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified— — — — — 12,086 — — 12,086 
Pass/Watch142,550 150,293 282,228 234,953 187,499 502,177 887 1,145 1,501,732 
Total multi-family$142,550 150,293 282,228 234,953 187,499 514,263 887 1,145 1,513,818 
Construction
Special mention$— — — — 19,728 905 — — 20,633 
Substandard— — — 2,197 777 — — — 2,974 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified— — — 2,197 20,505 905 — — 23,607 
Pass/Watch168,674 362,542 103,067 38,639 16,917 62 1,986 691,887 
Total construction$168,674 362,542 103,067 40,836 37,422 967 — 1,986 715,494 
Residential (1)
Special mention$— — — — — 1,114 — — 1,114 
Substandard— — — — 264 4,417 — — 4,681 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified— — — — 264 5,531 — — 5,795 
Pass/Watch151,077 212,697 211,445 95,872 58,226 442,586 — 1,171,903 
Total residential$151,077 212,697 211,445 95,872 58,490 448,117 — — 1,177,698 
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
103

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015



Gross Loans Held for Investment by Year of Origination
as of December 31, 2022
20222021202020192018Prior to 2018Revolving LoansRevolving loans to term loansTotal Loans
Total Mortgage
Special mention$— — 3,071 26,809 72,237 26,489 — — 128,606 
Substandard— — — 2,197 19,061 18,547 434 — 40,239 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified— — 3,071 29,006 91,298 45,036 434 — 168,845 
Pass/Watch1,413,668 1,356,116 1,164,188 915,938 481,262 2,109,679 95,603 17,896 7,554,350 
Total Mortgage$1,413,668 1,356,116 1,167,259 944,944 572,560 2,154,715 96,037 17,896 7,723,195 
Commercial
Special mention$75 1,148 444 201 10,156 4,379 14,530 140 31,073 
Substandard— 7,605 10,230 4,391 3,561 13,734 7,604 364 47,489 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified75 8,753 10,674 4,592 13,717 18,113 22,134 504 78,562 
Pass/Watch377,662 320,334 162,175 161,150 87,396 522,798 492,717 30,876 2,155,108 
Total commercial$377,737 329,087 172,849 165,742 101,113 540,911 514,851 31,380 2,233,670 
Consumer (1)
Special mention$— — — — — 146 — — 146 
Substandard— — — 109 332 209 — 658 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified— — — 109 478 209 — 804 
Pass/Watch30,132 20,671 2,909 16,682 16,156 88,173 115,777 13,476 303,976 
Total consumer$30,132 20,671 2,917 16,682 16,265 88,651 115,986 13,476 304,780 
Total Loans
Special mention$75 1,148 3,515 27,010 82,393 31,014 14,530 140 159,825 
Substandard— 7,605 10,238 6,588 22,731 32,613 8,247 364 88,386 
Doubtful— — — — — — — — — 
Loss— — — — — — — — — 
Total criticized and classified75 8,753 13,753 33,598 105,124 63,627 22,777 504 248,211 
Pass/Watch1,821,462 1,697,121 1,329,272 1,093,770 584,814 2,720,650 704,097 62,248 10,013,434 
Total gross loans$1,821,537 1,705,874 1,343,025 1,127,368 689,938 2,784,277 726,874 62,752 10,261,645 
(7)(1) For residential and consumer loans, the Company assigns internal credit grades based on the delinquency status of each loan.
104


(8) Banking Premises and Equipment
A summary of banking premises and equipment atas of December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 is as follows (in thousands):
 2017 2016
Land$12,440
 17,594
Banking premises58,523
 81,067
Furniture, fixtures and equipment45,184
 43,860
Leasehold improvements35,240
 35,455
Construction in progress1,036
 1,103
 152,423
 179,079
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization89,238
 94,987
Total banking premises and equipment$63,185
 84,092
On December 13, 2017, the Company, completed the sale and leaseback of 12 of its New Jersey banking offices, which had a net book value of $14.5 million. Net proceeds from the sale totaled $20.7 million. The net gain on sale of $6.2 million will be recognized over the 10 year term of the leases as a reduction of rent expense.
20232022
Land$13,394 14,424 
Banking premises72,905 74,945 
Furniture, fixtures and equipment56,082 55,883 
Leasehold improvements45,154 49,878 
Construction in progress5,331 1,012 
Total banking premises and equipment192,866 196,142 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization121,868 116,348 
Net banking premises and equipment$70,998 79,794 
Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 amounted to $9.0$8.7 million, $9.4$9.8 million and $9.6$9.0 million, respectively.

(8)(9) Intangible Assets
Intangible assets atas of December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
20232022
Goodwill$443,623 443,623 
Core deposit premiums1,901 2,445 
Customer relationship and other intangibles11,867 14,202 
Mortgage servicing rights551 622 
Total intangible assets$457,942 460,892 
 2017 2016
Goodwill$411,600
 411,600
Core deposit premiums3,470
 4,546
Customer relationship and other intangibles4,483
 5,957
Mortgage servicing rights737
 834
Total intangible assets$420,290
 422,937

Amortization expense of intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 is as follows (in thousands):
202320222021
Core deposit premiums$544 730 917 
Customer relationship and other intangibles2,335 2,488 2,597 
Mortgage servicing rights73 74 150 
Total amortization expense of intangible assets$2,952 3,292 3,664 
 2017 2016 2015
Core deposit premiums$1,076
 1,300
 1,757
Customer relationship and other intangibles1,474
 1,909
 2,136
Mortgage servicing rights120
 182
 173
Total amortization expense of intangible assets$2,670
 3,391
 4,066

Scheduled amortization of core deposit premiums and customer relationship intangibles for each of the next five years is as follows (in thousands): 
Year ended December 31,Scheduled Amortization
2024$2,432 
20252,266 
20262,096 
20272,043 
20282,004 
105
Year ended December 31, Scheduled Amortization
2018 $2,004
2019 1,709
2020 1,415
2021 1,120
2022 825


(10) Deposits


PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years EndedDeposits as of December 31, 2017, 20162023 and 2015


(9) Deposits
Deposits at December 31, 2017 and 20162022 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
2023
Weighted
average
interest rate
2022
Weighted
average
interest rate
Savings deposits$1,175,683 0.21 %$1,438,583 0.15 %
Money market accounts2,325,364 2.67 2,542,160 1.21 
NOW accounts (1)
3,492,184 2.77 3,186,926 1.24 
Non-interest bearing deposits2,203,341 — 2,643,919 — 
Certificates of deposit (2)
1,095,942 3.85 751,436 1.88 
Total deposits$10,292,514 $10,563,024 
 2017 
Weighted
average
interest rate
 2016 
Weighted
average
interest rate
Savings deposits$1,083,012
 0.17% $1,099,020
 0.17%
Money market accounts1,532,024
 0.36
 1,582,750
 0.31
NOW accounts2,011,334
 0.46
 1,871,298
 0.33
Non-interest bearing deposits1,452,987
 
 1,349,378
 
Certificates of deposit634,809
 0.94
 651,183
 0.72
Total deposits$6,714,166
   $6,553,629
  
(1)Our insured cash sweep ("ICS") product totaled $520.2 million as of December 31, 2023 and are located within NOW accounts.
(2)Time deposits equal to or in excess of $250,000 were, $218.5 million and $108.2 million as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. Additionally, our Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service ("CDARS") product totaled $163.9 million as of December 31, 2023.
Within total deposits, brokered deposits totaled $689.3 million as of December 31, 2023. Our brokered deposits are made up primarily of ICS deposits and CDARS. Both of these services are provided by the bank to increase the level of customers' deposit insurance.
Scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit accounts atas of December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 are as follows (in thousands):
2017 2016
202320232022
Within one year$424,448
 439,035
One to three years150,280
 134,941
Three to five years56,529
 75,751
Five years and thereafter3,552
 1,456
$634,809
 651,183
$
Interest expense on deposits for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 is summarized as follows (in thousands):
 Years ended December 31,
 202320222021
Savings deposits$2,184 1,276 1,604 
NOW and money market accounts125,471 32,048 20,458 
Certificates of deposits31,804 5,380 4,451 
$159,459 38,704 26,513 

106
 Years ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
Savings deposits$2,092
 1,709
 1,039
NOW and money market accounts12,205
 10,106
 8,046
Certificates of deposits5,144
 5,132
 5,436
 $19,441
 16,947
 14,521



(10)(11) Borrowed Funds
Borrowed funds atas of December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
20232022
Securities sold under repurchase agreements$72,161 98,000 
FHLB line of credit148,000 486,000 
FHLB advances1,299,872 753,370 
FED Bank Term Funding Program ("BTFP") Borrowing450,000 — 
Total borrowed funds$1,970,033 1,337,370 
 2017 2016
Securities sold under repurchase agreements$143,179
 156,665
FHLB line of credit472,000
 161,000
FHLB advances1,127,335
 1,295,080
Total borrowed funds$1,742,514
 1,612,745
AtTotal long-term borrowings totaled $534.8 million and $134.9 million as of December 31, 2017,2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, while total short-term borrowings totaled $1.44 billion and $1.20 billion for the same periods.
As of December 31, 2023, FHLB advances were at fixed rates and mature between January 20182024 and April 2022,September 2027, and atas of December 31, 2016,2022, FHLB advances were at fixed rates and mature between January 20172023 and April 2022.July 2025. These advances are secured by loans receivable and investment securities under a blanket collateral agreement.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARYIn March 2023, the Bank established a facility under the BTFP with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The Bank pledged approximately $589.1 million in security collateral to the facility improving its access to immediate funding. Advances under the Program can be requested until March 11, 2024. We elected to participate in the BTFP program due to significant cost savings compared to other wholesale funding sources. The funding was used to pay off existing wholesale borrowings. The ability to prepay at any time without penalty also enhances our ability to manage our interest rate risk position.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


Scheduled maturities of FHLB advances atand lines of credit as of December 31, 20172023 are as follows (in thousands):
 2017
Due in one year or less$389,375
Due after one year through two years436,551
Due after two years through three years249,169
Due after three years through four years42,240
Due after four years through five years10,000
Thereafter
Total FHLB advances$1,127,335
2023
Due in one year or less$1,063,065 
Due after one year through two years502,362 
Due after two years through three years157,445 
Due after three years through four years175,000 
Due after four years through five years— 
Thereafter— 
Total FHLB advances and lines of credit$1,897,872 
Scheduled maturities of securities sold under repurchase agreements atas of December 31, 20172023 are as follows (in thousands):
2023
Due in one year or less$72,161 
Thereafter— 
Total securities sold under repurchase agreements$72,161 
107


 2017
Due in one year or less$108,179
Due after one year through two years35,000
Due after two years through three years
Thereafter
Total securities sold under repurchase agreements$143,179
The following tables set forth certain information as to borrowed funds for the years ended December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 (in thousands):
 
Maximum
balance
 
Average
balance
 
Weighted average
interest rate
2017:     
Securities sold under repurchase agreements$210,702
 164,982
 1.26%
FHLB line of credit472,000
 179,003
 1.17
FHLB advances1,288,448
 1,237,979
 1.78
2016:     
Securities sold under repurchase agreements$283,233
 224,421
 1.42%
FHLB line of credit173,000
 37,608
 0.61
FHLB advances1,343,095
 1,315,278
 1.76
Maximum
balance
Average
balance
Weighted average
interest rate
2023
Securities sold under repurchase agreements$99,669 87,227 1.69 %
FHLB line of credit500,000 262,289 5.29 
FHLB advances1,592,277 1,282,124 3.14 
FED BTFP Borrowing450,000 4,932 4.83 
2022
Securities sold under repurchase agreements$125,506 113,550 0.38 %
FHLB line of credit486,000 139,012 3.32 
FHLB advances753,370 503,713 0.85 
Securities sold under repurchase agreements include wholesale borrowing arrangements, as well as arrangements with deposit customers of the Bank to sweep funds into short-term borrowings. The Bank uses securities available for sale debt securities to pledge as collateral for the repurchase agreements. As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the fair value of securities pledged to secure public deposits, repurchase agreements, lines of credit, FHLB advances and other purposes required by law, totaled $924.6 million and $1.59 billion, respectively. Additionally, as of December 31, 2023, the par value of securities pledged to secure the BTFP was $589.1 million.

Interest expense on borrowings for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 amounted to $55.9 million, $9.3 million and $8.6 million, respectively.
(12) Subordinated Debentures
(11)Sussex Capital Trust II, a non-consolidated subsidiary of the Company acquired as part of the SB One acquisition and a Delaware statutory business trust established on June 28, 2007, issued $12.5 million of variable rate capital trust pass-through securities to investors. In accordance with FASB ASC 810, Consolidation, Sussex Capital Trust II, is not included in our consolidated financial statements. For regulatory reporting purposes, capital trust pass-through securities qualify as Tier I capital subject to specified limitations.
Subordinated debentures as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 totaled $10.7 million and $10.5 million, respectively, while interest expense on these subordinated debentures for the year ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 totaled $1.1 million, $615,000 and $1.2 million, respectively.

(13) Benefit Plans
Pension and Post-retirement Benefits
The Bank has a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan covering its full-time employees who had attained age 21 with at least one year of service as of April 1, 2003. The pension plan was frozen on April 1, 2003. All participants in the pension plan are 100% vested. The pension plan’s assets are invested in investment funds and group annuity contracts currently managed by the Principal Financial Group and Allmerica Financial. Based on the measurement date of December 31, 2017,2023, no contributions will be made to the pension plan in 2018.2024.
In addition to pension benefits, certain health care and life insurance benefits are currently made available to certain of the Bank’s retired employees. The costs of such benefits are accrued based on actuarial assumptions from the date of hire to the date the employee is fully eligible to receive the benefits. Effective January 1, 2003, eligibility for retiree health care benefits was frozen as to new entrants and benefits were eliminated for employees with less than ten years of service as of December 31, 2002. Effective January 1, 2007, eligibility for retiree life insurance benefits was frozen as to new entrants and retiree life insurance benefits were eliminated for employees with less than ten years of service as of December 31, 2006.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

108



The following table sets forth information regarding the pension plan and post-retirement healthcare and life insurance plans (in thousands):
Pension Post-retirement PensionPost-retirement
2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015 202320222021202320222021
Change in benefit obligation:           
Benefit obligation at beginning of year$29,533
 28,274
 28,921
 20,805
 25,694
 28,333
Benefit obligation at beginning of year
Benefit obligation at beginning of year
Service cost
 
 
 105
 150
 168
Interest cost1,227
 1,247
 1,137
 871
 1,138
 1,122
Actuarial loss
 70
 78
 
 
 122
Actuarial (gain) loss
Benefits paid(1,590) (1,247) (1,179) (560) (682) (644)
Change in actuarial assumptions2,800
 1,189
 (683) 1,536
 (5,495) (3,407)
Benefit obligation at end of year$31,970
 29,533
 28,274
 22,757
 20,805
 25,694
Change in plan assets:           
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year$43,153
 41,448
 42,744
 
 
 
Actual return on plan assets5,307
 2,952
 (117) 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
Actual (loss) return on plan assets
Employer contributions
 
 
 560
 682
 644
Benefits paid(1,590) (1,247) (1,179) (560) (682) (644)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year$46,870
 43,153
 41,448
 
 
 
Funded status at end of year$14,900
 13,620
 13,174
 (22,757) (20,805) (25,694)
For the years ended December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, the Company, in the measurement of its pension plan and post-retirement obligations updated its mortality assumptions to the RP 2014PRI 2012 mortality table with the fully generational projection scale MP 2017 and MP 20162021 issued by The Society of Actuaries ("SOA") in October 2017 and 2016, respectively.2021. The prepaid pension benefits of $14.9$28.3 million and the unfunded post-retirement healthcare and life insurance benefits of $22.8$11.3 million atas of December 31, 20172023 are included in other assets and other liabilities, respectively, in the consolidated statementConsolidated Statements of financial condition.Financial Condition.
The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss (gain)(income) related to the pension plan and other post-retirement benefits, on a pre-tax basis, atas of December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 are summarized in the following table (in thousands):
 PensionPost-retirement
 2023202220232022
Unrecognized prior service cost$— — — — 
Unrecognized net actuarial loss (income)5,633 9,658 (10,378)(11,802)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)$5,633 9,658 (10,378)(11,802)

109

 Pension Post-retirement
 2017 2016 2017 2016
Unrecognized prior service cost$
 
 
 
Unrecognized net actuarial loss (gain)11,091
 11,968
 (4,781) (6,993)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss (gain)$11,091
 11,968
 (4,781) (6,993)


Net periodic benefit (increase)(benefit) increase cost for the years ending December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, included the following components (in thousands):
 PensionPost-retirement
 202320222021202320222021
Service cost$— — — 13 28 34 
Interest cost1,208 855 790 600 443 424 
Return on plan assets(2,824)(3,456)(3,227)— — — 
Amortization of:
Net loss (gain)709 — 472 (2,130)(1,304)(1070)
Unrecognized prior service cost— — — — — — 
Net periodic (benefit) increase cost$(907)(2,601)(1,965)(1,517)(833)(612)
 Pension Post-retirement
 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015
Service cost$
 
 
 105
 150
 168
Interest cost1,227
 1,247
 1,137
 871
 1,138
 1,122
Return on plan assets(2,550) (2,449) (2,530) 
 
 
Amortization of:           
Net gain (loss)920
 943
 774
 (677) 
 1
Unrecognized prior service cost
 
 
 
 
 (1)
Net periodic benefit (increase) cost$(403) (259) (619) 299
 1,288
 1,290
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


The weighted average actuarial assumptions used in the plan determinations atas of December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 were as follows:
 Pension Post-retirement
 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015
Discount rate3.50% 4.25% 4.50% 3.50% 4.25% 4.50%
Rate of compensation increase
 
 
 
 
 
Expected return on plan assets6.00
 6.00
 6.00
 
 
 
Medical and life insurance benefits cost rate of increase
 
 
 6.00
 6.00
 6.00
 PensionPost-retirement
 202320222021202320222021
Discount rate4.90 %5.10 %2.70 %4.90 %5.10 %2.70 %
Rate of compensation increase— — — — — — 
Expected return on plan assets6.00 6.00 6.00 — — — 
Medical and life insurance benefits cost rate of increase— — — 5.50 6.00 6.00 
The Company provides its actuary with certain rate assumptions used in measuring the benefit obligation. The most significant of these is the discount rate used to calculate the period-end present value of the benefit obligations, and the expense to be included in the following year’s financial statements. A lower discount rate will result in a higher benefit obligation and expense, while a higher discount rate will result in a lower benefit obligation and expense. The discount rate assumption was determined based on a cash flow-yield curve model specific to the Company’s pension and post-retirement plans. The Company compares this rate to certain market indices, such as long-term treasury bonds, or the Citigroup pension liability indices, for reasonableness. A discount rate of 3.50%4.90% was selected for the December 31, 20172023 measurement date.
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for health care plans. A 1% change in the assumed health care cost trend rate would have had the following effects on post-retirement benefits atas of December 31, 20172023 (in thousands):
1% increase 1% decrease
1% increase1% increase1% decrease
Effect on total service cost and interest cost$170
 140
Effect on post-retirement benefits obligation$4,000
 3,170
Estimated future benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate for the next five years, are as follows (in thousands):
PensionPost-retirement
2024$1,757 681 
20251,766 717 
20261,768 720 
20271,776 741 
20281,779 746 

110

 Pension Post-retirement
2018$1,443
 $645
20191,496
 684
20201,538
 705
20211,593
 771
20221,635
 828


The weighted-average asset allocation of pension plan assets atas of December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 were as follows:
Asset Category 2017 2016Asset Category20232022
Domestic equities 38% 37%Domestic equities38 %37 %
Foreign equities 11% 11%Foreign equities11 %11 %
Fixed income 49% 50%Fixed income49 %50 %
Real estate 2% 2%Real estate%%
Cash 0% 0%Cash— %— %
Total 100% 100%Total100 %100 %
The Company’s expected return on pension plan assets assumption is based on historical investment return experience and evaluation of input from the Plan's Investment Consultant and the Company's Benefits Committee which manages the pension plan’s assets. The expected return on pension plan assets is also impacted by the target allocation of assets, which is based on the Company’s goal of earning the highest rate of return while maintaining risk at acceptable levels.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


Management strives to have pension plan assets sufficiently diversified so that adverse or unexpected results from one security class will not have a significant detrimental impact on the entire portfolio. The target allocation of assets and acceptable ranges around the targets are as follows:
Asset Category Target Allowable RangeAsset CategoryTargetAllowable Range
Domestic equities 37% 30-41%
Domestic equities37 %30-41%
Foreign equities 11% 5-13%
Foreign equities11 %5-13%
Fixed income 50% 40-65%
Fixed income50 %40-65%
Real estate 2% 0-4%
Real estate%0-4%
Cash 0% 0%Cash%0%
Total 100%  
The Company anticipates that the long-term asset allocation on average will approximate the targeted allocation. Actual asset allocations are the result of investment decisions by a third-party investment manager.
The following tables present the assets that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level within the U.S. GAAP fair value hierarchy as reported on the statements of net assets available for Plan benefits atas of December 31, 20172023 and 2016, respectively. 2022, respectively (in thousands):
Financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.
111


Fair value measurements as of December 31, 2023
Fair value measurements at December 31, 2017
(in thousands)Total (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3)
TotalTotal(Level 1)(Level 2)(Level 3)
Group annuity contracts$120
 
 120
 
Mutual funds:       
Fixed income
Fixed income
Fixed income13,725
 13,725
 
 
International equity5,110
 5,110
 
 
Large U.S. equity1,431
 1,431
 
 
Small/Mid U.S. equity950
 950
 
 
Total mutual funds21,216
 21,216
 
 
Pooled separate accounts25,534
 
 25,534
 
Total investments$46,870
 21,216
 25,654
 
Pooled separate accounts
Pooled separate accounts
Total Plan assets
Total Plan assets
Total Plan assets

Fair value measurements as of December 31, 2022
Fair value measurements at December 31, 2016
(in thousands)Total (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3)
TotalTotal(Level 1)(Level 2)(Level 3)
Group annuity contracts$127
 
 127
 
Mutual funds:       
Fixed income
Fixed income
Fixed income12,740
 12,740
 
 
International equity4,659
 4,659
 
 
Large U.S. equity1,296
 1,296
 
 
Small/Mid U.S. equity840
 840
 
 
Total mutual funds19,535
 19,535
 
 
Pooled separate accounts23,491
 
 23,491
 
Total investments$43,153
 19,535
 23,618
 
Pooled separate accounts
Pooled separate accounts
Total Plan assets
401(k) Plan
The Bank has a 401(k) plan covering substantially all employees of the Bank. For 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, the Bank matched 25% of the first 6% contributed by the participants. The contribution percentage is determined by the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors in its sole discretion. The Bank’s aggregate contributions to the 401(k) Plan for 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 were $890,000, $850,000$1.3 million, $1.2 million and $770,000,$1.2 million, respectively.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
The Bank maintains a non-qualified supplemental retirement plan for certain senior officers of the Bank. This unfunded plan, which was frozen as of April 1, 2003. The Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan, which is unfunded,2003, provides benefits in excess of the benefits permitted to be paid by the pension plan under provisions of the tax law. Amounts expensed under this supplemental retirement plan amounted to $91,000, $96,000$73,000, $73,000 and $93,000$74,000 for the years 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, respectively. AtAs of December 31, 20172023 and 2016, $2.02022, $1.6 million and $2.1$1.7 million, respectively, were recorded in other liabilities on the consolidated statementsConsolidated Statements of financial conditionFinancial Condition for this supplemental retirement plan. Decreases of $120,000, $30,000, and $82,000, net of tax, wereIn connection with this supplemental retirement plan, there was no change recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) for 2017, 20162023, while an increase of $283,000 and 2015, respectively, in connection with this supplemental retirement plan.an increase of $68,000, net of tax, were recorded for 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Retirement Plan for the Board of Directors of Provident Bank
The Bank maintains a Retirement Plan for the Boardboard of Directorsdirectors of the Bank, a non-qualified plan that provides cash payments for up to 10 years to eligible retired board members based on age and length of service requirements. The maximum payment under this plan to a board member, who terminates service on or after the age of 72 with at least ten years of service on the board, is forty quarterly payments of $1,250. The Bank may suspend payments under this plan if it does not meet Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance minimum capital requirements. The Bank may terminate this plan at any time although such termination may not reduce or eliminate any benefit previously accrued to a board member without his or her consent. The plan was amended in December 2005 to terminate benefits under this plan for any directors who had less than ten years of service on the board of directors of the Bank as of December 31, 2006.
112


The plan further provides that, in the event of a change in control (as defined in the plan), the undistributed balance of a director’s accrued benefit will be distributed to him or her within 60 days of the change in control. The Bank paid $13,000, $17,500,$5,000, $5,000, and $20,000$6,250 to former board members under this plan for each of the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, respectively. AtAs of December 31, 20172023 and 2016, $142,0002022, $126,000 and $148,000,$125,000, respectively, were recorded in other liabilities on the consolidated statementsConsolidated Statements of financial conditionFinancial Condition for this retirement plan. A decrease of $1,000, a decrease$7,000, net of $3,000,tax, was recorded in other comprehensive income for 2023, while increases of $11,000 and an increase of $1,800,$689, net of tax, were recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) for 2017, 20162022 and 2015,2021, respectively, in connection with this plan.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan
The ESOP is a tax-qualified plan designed to invest primarily in the Company’s common stock that provides employees with the opportunity to receive a funded retirement benefit from the Bank, based primarily on the value of the Company’s common stock. The ESOP purchased 4,769,464 shares of the Company’s common stock at an average price of $17.09$17.09 per share with the proceeds of a loan from the Company to the ESOP. The outstanding loan principal atas of December 31, 2017,2023, was $41.4 million.$6.4 million. Shares of the Company’s common stock pledged as collateral for the loan are released from the pledge for allocation to participants as loan payments are made.
For the years ending December 31, 20172023 and 2016, 242,2542022, 311,946 shares and 219,623299,566 shares from the ESOP were released, respectively. Unallocated ESOP shares held in suspense totaled 1,980,536 at286,562 as of December 31, 2017,2023, and had a fair value of $53.4 million.$5.2 million. ESOP compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 was $4.6$3.1 million,, $3.7 $4.1 million and $3.0$4.3 million, respectively.
Non-Qualified Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan (“the Supplemental Employee Stock Ownership Plan”)
Effective January 1, 2004, the Bank established a deferred compensation plan for executive management and key employees of the Bank, known as Provident Bank Non-Qualified Supplemental Employee Stock Ownership Plan (the “Supplemental ESOP”). The Supplemental ESOP was amended and restated as the Non-Qualified Supplemental Defined Contribution Plan (the “Supplemental DC Plan”), effective January 1, 2010. The Supplemental DC Plan is a non-qualified plan that provides additional benefits to certain executives whose benefits under the 401(k) Plan and ESOP are limited by tax law limitations applicable to tax-qualified plans. The Supplemental DC Plan requires a contribution by the Bank for each participant who also participates in the 401(k) Plan and ESOP equal to the amount that would have been contributed under the terms of the 401(k) Plan and ESOP but for the tax law limitations, less the amount actually contributed under the 401(k) Plan and ESOP.
The Supplemental DC Plan provides for a phantom stock allocation for qualified contributions that may not be accrued in the qualified ESOP and for matching contributions that may not be accrued in the qualified 401(k) Plan due to tax law limitations. Under the Supplemental 401(k) provision, the estimated (benefit) expense for the yearyears ending December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 was $17,500, $14,500$262,000, $312,000 and $11,500,$25,000, respectively, and included the matching contributions plus interest credited at an annual rate equal
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


to the ten-year bond-equivalent yield on U.S. Treasury securities. Under the Supplemental ESOP provision, the estimated expense for the yearyears ending December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 was $105,000, $93,000$432,000, $144,000 and $54,000,$180,000, respectively. The phantom equity is treated as equity awards (expensed at the time of allocation) and not liability awards which would require periodic adjustment to market, as participants do not have an option to take their distribution in cash.
The Amended and Restated2019 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan
Upon stockholders’ approval of the Amended and Restated2019 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan on April 4, 2014,25, 2019, shares available for stock awards and stock options under the 2008Amended and Restated Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan were reserved for issuance under the new Amended and Restated2019 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan. No additional grants of stock awards and stock options will be made under the 2008Amended and Restated Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan. The new plan authorized the issuance of up to 3,686,5101,350,000 shares of Company common stock with no more than 2,100,000 shares permitted to be issued as stock awards. As of December 31, 2023, 749,860 shares remain available for grant under the plan. Shares previously awarded under the 2008prior equity incentive plans that are subsequently forfeited or expire may also be issued under thethis new plan.
Stock Awards
113


As a general rule, restricted stock grants are held in escrow for the benefit of the award recipient until vested. Awards outstanding generally vest in three annual installments, commencing one year from the date of the award. Additionally, certain awards are three-year performance vestingperformance-vesting awards, which may or may not vest depending upon the attainment of certain corporate financial targets. Expense attributable to stock awards amounted to $5.0$7.6 million,, $3.8 $9.4 million and $4.6$5.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, respectively.
A summary status of the granted but unvested stock awards as of December 31, and changes during the year, is presented below:
 Restricted Stock Awards
 2017 2016 2015
Outstanding at beginning of year547,698
 591,746
 846,462
Granted288,519
 351,836
 339,936
Forfeited(62,677) (178,632) (240,191)
Vested(112,757) (217,252) (354,461)
Outstanding at the end of year660,783
 547,698
 591,746
 Restricted Stock Awards
 202320222021
Outstanding at beginning of year1,023,130 900,483 785,181 
Granted427,053 447,526 500,892 
Forfeited(328,761)(105,556)(144,476)
Vested(68,330)(219,323)(241,114)
Outstanding at the end of year1,053,092 1,023,130 900,483 
As of December 31, 2017,2023, unrecognized compensation cost relating to unvested restricted stock totaled $5.7$7.1 million. This amount will be recognized over a remaining weighted average period of 1.91.6 years.
Stock Options
Each stock option granted entitles the holder to purchase one share of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price not less than the fair value of a share of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant. Options generally vest over a five-year period from the date of grant and expire no later than 10 years following the grant date. Additionally, certain options are three-year performance vestingperformance-vesting options, which may or may not vest depending upon the attainment of certain corporate financial targets.
A summary of the status of the granted but unexercised stock options as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, and changes during the year is presented below:
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
 202320222021
 
Number
of
stock
options
Weighted
average
exercise
price
Number
of
stock
options
Weighted
average
exercise
price
Number
of
stock
options
Weighted
average
exercise
price
Outstanding at beginning of year600,806 $19.01 566,453 $18.73 596,441 $17.96 
Granted— — 34,353 23.70 56,605 20.66 
Exercised(51,881)15.23 — — (86,593)14.69 
Forfeited— — — — — — 
Expired— — — — — — 
Outstanding at the end of year548,925 $19.37 600,806 $19.01 566,453 $18.73 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


 2017 2016 2015
 
Number
of
stock
options
 
Weighted
average
exercise
price
 
Number
of
stock
options
 
Weighted
average
exercise
price
 
Number
of
stock
options
 
Weighted
average
exercise
price
Outstanding at beginning of year703,669
 $14.70
 1,084,686
 $15.32
 1,284,321
 $15.32
Granted42,857
 26.31
 76,327
 18.70
 65,972
 16.38
Exercised(238,370) 12.22
 (368,838) 16.92
 (201,320) 15.72
Forfeited
 
 (82,006) 16.42
 (62,287) 14.93
Expired(500) 17.94
 (6,500) 18.55
 (2,000) 17.94
Outstanding at the end of year507,656
 $16.84
 703,669
 $14.70
 1,084,686
 $15.32

The total fair value of options vesting during 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 was $168,000, $247,000$198,000, $195,000 and $274,000,$190,000, respectively.
Compensation expense of approximately $138,000, $70,582$77,000 and $10,000$11,000 is projected for 2018, 20192024 and 2020,2025 respectively, on stock options outstanding atas of December 31, 2017.2023. No compensation expense is projected for 2026 on stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2023.
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding atas of December 31, 2017:2023:
114


 Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
Range of exercise prices
Number
of
options
outstanding
 
Average
remaining
contractual
life
 
Weighted
average
exercise
price
 
Number
of
options
exercisable
 
Weighted
average
exercise
price
$10.34-15.23241,740
 3.4 years $14.00
 234,738
 $13.84
$16.38-26.31265,916
 7.4 years $19.13
 136,183
 $17.45
 Options OutstandingOptions Exercisable
Range of exercise prices
Number
of
options
outstanding
Average
remaining
contractual
life
Weighted
average
exercise
price
Number
of
options
exercisable
Weighted
average
exercise
price
$15.23-18.70223,061 1.1$17.75 223,061 $17.75 
$20.62-27.25325,864 5.8$23.20 284,094 $23.33 


The stock options outstanding and stock options exercisable atas of December 31, 2017 have2023, both had an aggregate intrinsic value of $5,249,000 and $4,380,000, respectively.$133,000.
The expense related to stock options is based on the fair value of the options at the date of the grant and is recognized ratably over the vesting period of the options.
Compensation expense related to the Company’s stock option plan totaled $203,000, $172,000$144,000, $198,000 and $272,000$200,000 for 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, respectively.
The estimated fair values were determined on the dates of grant using the Black-Scholes Option pricing model. The fair value of the Company’Company’s stock option awards are expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the stock option. The risk-free rate is based on the implied yield on a U.S. Treasury bond with a term approximating the expected term of the option. The expected volatility computation is based on historical volatility over a period approximating the expected term of the option. The dividend yield is based on the annual dividend payment per share, divided by the grant date stock price. The expected option term is a function of the option life and the vesting period.
The fair value of the option grants was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
 For the year ended December 31,
 20222021
Expected dividend yield4.05 %4.45 %
Expected volatility36.33 %30.75 %
Risk-free interest rate1.74 %0.73 %
Expected option life8 years8 years
 For the year ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
Expected dividend yield2.89% 3.64% 3.49%
Expected volatility20.34% 20.71% 21.29%
Risk-free interest rate2.05% 1.21% 1.58%
Expected option life8 years
 8 years
 8 years
TheThere were no options granted during 2023, while the weighted average fair value of options granted during 2017, 20162022 and 20152021 was $4.20, $2.26$5.80 and $2.52$3.52 per option, respectively.

PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


(12)(14) Income Taxes
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("Tax Act") was signed into law on December 22, 2017. Included as part of the law, was a permanent reduction in the federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018. Based upon the change in the tax rate, the Company revalued its net deferred tax asset at December 31, 2017. As a result of the enactment of the Tax Act, the Company recognized an additional tax expense of $3.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.
115


The current and deferred amounts of income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 are as follows (in thousands):
Years ended December 31, Years ended December 31,
2017 2016 2015 202320222021
Current:     
Federal$4,163
 32,506
 33,778
Federal
Federal
State1,731
 1,314
 2,337
Total current5,894
 33,820
 36,115
Total current income tax expense
Deferred:     
Federal39,003
 2,606
 (525)
Federal
Federal
State1,631
 554
 851
Total deferred40,634
 3,160
 326
$46,528
 36,980
 36,441
Total deferred income tax expense
Total income tax expense
The Company recorded a deferred tax expense (benefit) of ($1.4)$11.1 million, ($3.0)68.2) million and ($2.5)8.3) million during 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, respectively, related to the unrealized (loss) gaingains (losses) on securities available for sale debt securities, which is reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. Additionally, theThe Company recorded a deferred tax (benefit) expense of ($586,000), $2.33.9) million, $6.2 million and $866,000$3.1 million in 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, respectively, related to the unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedge advances, which is reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (losses), net of tax. Also, the Company recorded a deferred tax expense (benefit) of $884,000, $(517,000) and $1.4 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to the amortization of post-retirement benefit obligations, which is reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax.
A reconciliation between the amount of reported total income tax expense and the amount computed by multiplying the applicable statutory income tax rate is as follows (in thousands):
 Years ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
Tax expense at statutory rate of 35%$49,167
 43,674
 42,057
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:     
State tax, net of federal income tax benefit2,185
 1,215
 2,072
Tax-exempt interest income(5,097) (5,286) (5,520)
Bank-owned life insurance(2,343) (1,915) (1,871)
Enactment of Tax Act3,912
 
 
Other, net(1,296) (708) (297)
 $46,528
 36,980
 36,441
 Years ended December 31,
 202320222021
Tax expense at statutory rates$36,932 50,422 47,695 
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:
State tax, net of federal income tax benefit11,313 16,791 15,682 
Tax-exempt interest income(2,514)(2,590)(2,690)
Bank-owned life insurance(1,361)(1,257)(1,665)
Other, net3,011 1,092 175 
Total income tax expense$47,381 64,458 59,197 
The net deferred tax asset is included in other assets in the consolidated statementsConsolidated Statements of financial condition.Financial Condition. The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities atas of December 31, 20172023 and 20162022 are as follows (in thousands):
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
116

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015



202320232022
Deferred tax assets:
Allowance for credit losses on loans
Allowance for credit losses on loans
Allowance for credit losses on loans
Allowance for credit loss on off-balance sheet ("OBS") credit exposure
Post-retirement benefit
Deferred compensation
2017 2016
Deferred tax assets:   
Allowance for loan losses$14,884
 23,852
Post-retirement benefit7,265
 11,150
Deferred compensation1,382
 2,447
Purchase accounting adjustments1,242
 1,979
Depreciation
Depreciation
Depreciation2,284
 4,025
SERP651
 966
ESOP2,000
 3,203
Stock-based compensation4,066
 5,259
Non-accrual interest839
 3,738
Unrealized loss on securities1,180
 350
State NOL18
 81
Federal NOL270
 742
Pension liability adjustments1,495
 2,051
Non-accrual interest
Non-accrual interest
Federal Net Operating Loss ("NOL")
Federal Net Operating Loss ("NOL")
Federal Net Operating Loss ("NOL")
Unrealized losses on available for sale debt securities
Lease liability
Lease liability
Lease liability
Other2,561
 1,817
Total gross deferred tax assets40,137
 61,660
Deferred tax liabilities:   
Deferred REIT dividend22,264
 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred tax liabilities:
Pension expense6,857
 10,255
Pension expense
Pension expense
Contingent consideration
Deferred loan costs4,043
 5,477
Investment securities, principally due to accretion of discounts79
 167
Purchase accounting adjustments
Intangibles775
 548
Originated mortgage servicing rights184
 313
Originated mortgage servicing rights
Originated mortgage servicing rights
Pension liability adjustments
Pension liability adjustments
Pension liability adjustments
Net unrealized gain on hedging activities
Lease right-of-use asset
Other
Total gross deferred tax liabilities34,202
 16,760
Net deferred tax asset$5,935
 44,900
Retained earnings atas of December 31, 20172023 includes approximately $51.8 million for which no provision for income tax has been made. This amount represents an allocation of income to bad debt deductions for tax purposes only. Events that would result in taxation of these reserves include the failure to qualify as a bank for tax purposes, distributions in complete or partial liquidation, stock redemptions and excess distributions to stockholders. AtAs of December 31, 2017,2023, the Company had an unrecognized tax liability of $13.7$14.0 million with respect to this reserve.
As a result of the Beacon Trust acquisition in 2011, the Company acquired federal net operating loss carryforwards. There are approximately $1.3 million$760,000 of NOL carryforwards available to offset future taxable income as of December 31, 2017.2023. If not utilized, these carryforwards will expire in 2031. Also, the Company's New Jersey NOL carryforwards are approximately $240,000 which are scheduled to expire in 2031. The federal NOLs are subject to a combined annual Code Section 382 limitation in the amount of approximately $840,000.$197,000. Management has determined that it is more likely than not that it will realize the net deferred tax asset based upon the nature and timing of the items listed above. In order to fully realize the net deferred tax asset, the Company will need to generate future taxable income. Management has projected that the Company will generate sufficient taxable income to utilize the net deferred tax asset; however, there can be no assurance that such levels of taxable income will be generated.
The Company’s policy is to report interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. The Company did not have any liabilities for uncertain tax positions or any known unrecognized tax benefits atas of December 31, 20172023 and 2016.2022.
117


The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return, separatereturn. For tax periods prior to December 31, 2018, New Jersey Statetax law does not and has not allowed for a taxpayer to file a tax return on a combined or consolidated basis with another member of the affiliated group where there is common ownership. The Company and its subsidiaries is required to file a combined New Jersey state income tax returns,return on apportioned and allocated income. Also, the Company and its subsidiaries file a combined New York State income tax return on apportioned and allocated income. The Company, through its bank subsidiary, files a Pennsylvania Mutual Thrift Institution Tax return.
The Company's Federal and New York State incomePennsylvania Mutual Thrift Institutions tax returns are open for examination from 2015, the2020. The Company's New JerseyYork State income tax returns are open for examination from 2014, and
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


the Pennsylvania Mutual Thrift Institutions return is open from 2015. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Internal Revenue Service completed its examination of the Company's 2014 federal tax return. The completion of the examination did not have an impact on the Company's effective income tax rate.2020. The Company's 2016 and 2015 New YorkJersey State tax returns are currently under audit.open for examination from 2019.
(13) Lease(15) Commitments
The approximate future minimum rental commitments, exclusive of taxes and other related charges, for all significant non-cancellable operating leases at December 31, 2017, are summarized as follows (in thousands):
Year ending December 31, 
2018$8,032
20197,511
20206,980
20214,854
20223,378
Thereafter14,578
 $45,333
Rental expense was $8.8 million, $8.7 million and $8.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

(14) Commitments, Contingencies and Concentrations of Credit Risk
In the normal course of conducting its business, the Bank extends credit to meet the financing needs of its customers through commitments. Commitments and contingent liabilities, such as commitments to extend credit (including loan commitments of $2.09 billion and $2.06 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and undisbursed home equity and personal credit lines of $273.0 million and $279.2 million, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, are not reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. These instruments involve elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated financial statements. The Bank uses the same credit policies and collateral requirements in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance sheet loans. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since the commitments may expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.
The Bank evaluates each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by the Bank upon extension of credit, is based on management’s credit evaluation of the borrower.
The Bank grants residential real estate loans on single- and multi-family dwellings to borrowers primarily in New Jersey. Its borrowers’ abilities to repay their obligations are dependent upon various factors, including the borrowers’ income and net worth, cash flows generated by the underlying collateral and value of the underlying collateral. Such factors are dependent upon various economic conditions and individual circumstances beyond the Bank’s control; the Bank is therefore subject to risk of loss. The Bank believes that its lending policies and procedures adequately minimize the potential exposure to such risks and that adequate provisions for loan losses are provided for all known and inherent risks. Collateral and/or guarantees are required for virtually all loans.
A substantial portion of the Bank’s loans are to borrowers operating in or, are secured by real estate located in New Jersey, our primary market area. Accordingly, the collectability of a substantial portion of the Bank’s loan portfolio may be susceptible to changes in local real estate market conditions and the regional business environment.
118


(16) Contingencies
In the normal course of business, various commitments and contingent liabilities are outstanding which are not reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. In the opinion of management, the consolidated financial position of the Company will not be materially affected by the outcome of such commitments or contingent liabilities.
The Company is involved in various legal actionslitigation and claims arising in the normal course of its business. In the opinion of management, these legal actionsLiabilities for loss contingencies arising from such litigation and claims are not expectedrecorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated.
On May 2, 2022, a purported class action complaint was filed against the Bank in the Superior Court of New Jersey, which alleges that the Bank wrongfully assessed overdraft fees related to have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial conditiondebit card transactions. The complaint asserts claims for breach of contract and results of operations.
A substantial portionbreach of the Bank’s loans are secured by real estate located in New Jersey. Accordingly, the collectabilitycovenant of a substantial portiongood faith and fair dealing as well as an alleged violation of the Bank’s loan portfolioNew Jersey Consumer Fraud Act. Plaintiff seeks to represent a proposed class of all the Bank's checking account customers who were charged overdraft fees on transactions that were authorized into a positive available balance. Plaintiff seeks unspecified damages, costs, attorneys’ fees, pre-judgment interest, an injunction, and other relief as the Court deems proper for the plaintiff and the recoveryproposed class. The Bank denies the allegations and is vigorously defending the matter. The parties had an initial mediation meeting on October 20, 2023, and the matter remains pending.
Although the Bank is vigorously defending the litigation, the ultimate outcome of this litigation, such as whether the likelihood of loss is remote, reasonably possible, or probable, or if and when the reasonably possible range of loss is estimable, is inherently uncertain. As a substantial portionresult of this, a $3.0 million charge was recorded in the carrying amountfourth quarter of other real estate owned are susceptible to changes in local real estate market conditions.2023 for estimated contingent litigation reserves.

119



(15)(17) Regulatory Capital Requirements
FDIC regulations require banks to maintain minimum levels of regulatory capital. Under the regulations in effect atas of December 31, 2017,2023, the Bank is required to maintain: (1) a Tier 1 capital to total assets leverage ratio of 4.0%; (2) a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 4.5%; (3) a Tier 1 capital to risk-based assets ratio of 6.0%; and (4) a total capital to risk-based assets ratio of 8.0%. In addition to establishing the minimum regulatory capital requirements, the regulations limit capital distributions and certain discretionary bonus payments to management if the institution does not hold a “capital conservation buffer” consisting of 2.5% of common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted asset above the amount necessary to meet its minimum risk-based capital requirements. The capital conservation buffer requirement was effective on January 1, 2016 at 0.625% of risk-weighted assets and will increase each year until fully implemented at 2.5% on January 1, 2019. The capital conservation buffer during the calendar year 2017 was 1.25% and increased to 1.875% on January 1, 2018.
Under its prompt corrective action regulations, the FDIC is required to take certain supervisory actions (and may take additional discretionary actions) with respect to an undercapitalized institution. Such actions could have a direct material effect on an institution’s financial statements. The regulations establish a framework for the classification of savings institutions into five categories: well capitalized,capitalized; adequately capitalized,capitalized; undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized,undercapitalized; and critically undercapitalized. Generally, an institution is considered well capitalized if it has: a leverage (Tier 1) capital ratio of at least 5.00%; a common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6.50%; a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 8.00%; and a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10.00%.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NotesIn the first quarter of 2020, U.S. federal regulatory authorities issued an interim final rule providing banking institutions that adopt CECL during the 2020 calendar year with the option to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


delay for two years the estimated impact of CECL on regulatory capital, followed by a three-year transition period to phase out the aggregate amount of the capital benefit provided during the initial two-year delay (i.e., a five-year transition in total). In connection with its adoption of CECL on January 1, 2020, the Company elected to utilize the five-year CECL transition.
The foregoing capital ratios are based in part on specific quantitative measures of assets, liabilities and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the FDIC about capital components, risk weightings and other factors.
As of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, the Bank exceeded all minimum capital adequacy requirements to which it is subject. Further, the most recent FDIC notification categorized the Bank as a well-capitalized institution under the prompt corrective action regulations. There have been no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the Bank’s capital classification.
The Company is regulated as a bank holding company, and as such, is subject to examination, regulation and periodic reporting under the Bank Holding Company Act, as administered by the Federal Reserve Board (“FRB”). The FRB has adopted capital adequacy guidelines for bank holding companies on a consolidated basis substantially similar to those of the FDIC for the Bank. As of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, the Company was “well capitalized” under FRB guidelines. Regulations of the FRB provide that a bank holding company must serve as a source of strength to any of its subsidiary banks and must not conduct its activities in an unsafe or unsound manner. Under the prompt corrective action provisions discussed above, a bank holding company parent of an undercapitalized subsidiary bank would be directed to guarantee, within limitations, the capital restoration plan that is required of such an undercapitalized bank. If the undercapitalized bank fails to file an acceptable capital restoration plan or fails to implement an accepted plan, the FRB may prohibit the bank holding company parent of the undercapitalized bank from paying any dividend or making any other form of capital distribution without the prior approval of the FRB.
The following table shows the Company’s actual capital amounts and ratios as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, compared to the FRB minimum capital adequacy requirements and the FRB requirements for classification as a well-capitalized institution (dollars in thousands).
120


Actual capitalFRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements
FRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements with capital conservation buffer
To be well-capitalized
under prompt corrective
action provisions
Actual capital FRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements
 
FRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements with capital conservation buffer
 
To be well-capitalized
under prompt corrective
action provisions
AmountRatioAmountRatioAmount    Ratio    Amount    Ratio    
Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount     Ratio     Amount     Ratio    
As of December 31, 2017               
As of December 31, 2023
Tier 1 leverage capital
Tier 1 leverage capital
Tier 1 leverage capital$887,924
 9.65% $367,999
 4.00% $367,999
 4.00% $459,999
 5.00%$1,396,512 10.22 10.22 %$546,662 4.00 4.00 %$546,662 4.00 4.00 %$683,327 5.00 5.00 %
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital887,924
 11.87
 336,736
 4.50% 430,260
 5.75
 486,381
 6.50
Tier 1 risk-based capital887,924
 11.87
 448,981
 6.00% 542,502
 7.25
 598,623
 8.00
Total risk-based capital948,119
 12.67
 598,642
 8.00% 692,157
 9.25
 748,278
 10.00
 Actual capital
FRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements
FRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements with capital conservation buffer
To be well-capitalized
under prompt corrective
action provisions
 AmountRatioAmount    Ratio    Amount    Ratio    AmountRatio    
As of December 31, 2022
Tier 1 leverage capital$1,326,676 10.00 %$530,610 4.00 %$530,610 4.00 %$663,262 5.00 %
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital1,313,789 11.36 520,312 4.50 809,374 7.00 751,562 6.50 
Tier 1 risk-based capital1,326,676 11.47 693,749 6.00 982,812 8.50 924,999 8.00 
Total risk-based capital1,404,466 12.15 924,999 8.00 1,214,061 10.50 1,156,249 10.00 
 Actual capital 
FRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements
 FRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements with capital conservation buffer
 
To be well-capitalized
under prompt corrective
action provisions
 Amount Ratio Amount     Ratio     Amount     Ratio     Amount     Ratio    
As of December 31, 2016               
Tier 1 leverage capital$835,282
 9.25% $361,183
 4.00% $361,183
 4.00% $451,479
 5.00%
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital835,282
 11.64
 323,048
 4.50
 367,916
 5.13% 466,625
 6.50
Tier 1 risk-based capital835,282
 11.64
 430,731
 6.00
 475,599
 6.63% 574,308
 8.00
Total risk-based capital897,165
 12.50
 574,308
 8.00
 619,176
 8.63% 717,885
 10.00

PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015



The following table shows the Bank’s actual capital amounts and ratios as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, compared to the FDIC minimum capital adequacy requirements and the FDIC requirements for classification as a well-capitalized institution (dollars in thousands).
 Actual capitalFDIC minimum capital
adequacy requirements
FDIC minimum capital
adequacy requirements with capital conservation buffer
To be well-capitalized
under prompt corrective
action provisions
 AmountRatioAmount    Ratio    Amount    Ratio    Amount    Ratio    
As of December 31, 2023
Tier 1 leverage capital$1,343,223 9.84 %$546,168 4.00 %$546,168 4.00 %$682,709 5.00 %
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital1,343,223 11.12 543,465 4.50 845,390 7.00 785,005 6.50 
Tier 1 risk-based capital1,343,223 11.12 724,620 6.00 1,026,545 8.50 966,160 8.00 
Total risk-based capital1,443,256 11.95 966,160 8.00 1,268,085 10.50 1,207,700 10.00 
 Actual capital
FDIC minimum capital
adequacy requirements
FRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements with capital conservation buffer
To be well-capitalized
under prompt corrective
action provisions
 AmountRatioAmount    Ratio    Amount    Ratio    Amount    Ratio    
As of December 31, 2022
Tier 1 leverage capital$1,260,603 9.51 %$530,396 4.00 %$530,396 4.00 %$662,995 5.00 %
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital1,260,603 10.91 520,070 4.50 808,998 7.00 751,213 6.50 
Tier 1 risk-based capital1,260,603 10.91 693,427 6.00 982,355 8.50 924,569 8.00 
Total risk-based capital1,338,393 11.58 924,569 8.00 1,213,497 10.50 1,155,712 10.00 

121
 Actual capital FDIC minimum capital
adequacy requirements
 
FDIC minimum capital
adequacy requirements with Capital Conservation buffer
 
To be well-capitalized
under prompt corrective
action provisions
 Amount Ratio Amount     Ratio     Amount     Ratio     Amount     Ratio    
As of December 31, 2017               
Tier 1 leverage capital$834,084
 9.07% $367,986
 4.00% $367,986
 4.00% $459,983
 5.00%
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital834,084
 11.15
 336,721
 4.50% 430,254
 5.75
 486,374
 6.50
Tier 1 risk-based capital834,084
 11.15
 448,961
 6.00% 542,494
 7.25
 598,615
 8.00
Total risk-based capital894,430
 11.95
 598,615
 8.00% 692,148
 9.25
 748,268
 10.00


 Actual capital 
FDIC minimum capital
adequacy requirements
 FRB minimum capital
adequacy requirements with capital conservation buffer
 
To be well-capitalized
under prompt corrective
action provisions
 Amount Ratio Amount     Ratio     Amount     Ratio     Amount     Ratio    
As of December 31, 2016               
Tier 1 leverage capital$760,708
 8.42% $361,172
 4.00% $361,172
 4.00% $451,465
 5.00%
Common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital760,708
 10.60
 323,040
 4.50
 367,907
 5.13% 466,613
 6.50
Tier 1 risk-based capital760,708
 10.60
 430,720
 6.00
 475,587
 6.63% 574,293
 8.00
Total risk-based capital822,743
 11.46
 574,293
 8.00
 619,160
 8.63% 717,867
 10.00
(18) Allowance for Credit Losses on Off-Balance Sheet Credit Exposures


Management analyzes the Company's exposure to credit losses for both on-balance sheet and off-balance sheet activity using a consistent methodology for the quantitative framework as well as the qualitative framework. For purposes of estimating the allowance for credit losses for off-balance sheet credit exposures, the exposure at default includes an estimated drawdown of unused credit based on historical credit utilization factors and current loss factors, resulting in a proportionate amount of expected credit losses.
(16)For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company recorded a $264,000 provision, a $3.4 million negative provision and a $1.5 million provision for credit losses for off-balance sheet credit exposures, respectively.
The allowance for credit losses for off-balance sheet credit exposures was $3.4 million and $3.2 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and included in other liabilities on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.
(19) Fair Value Measurements
The Company utilizes fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. The determination of fair values of financial instruments often requires the use of estimates. Where quoted market values in an active market are not readily available, the Company utilizes various valuation techniques to estimate fair value.
Fair value is an estimate of the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. However, in many instances fair value estimates may not be substantiated by comparison to independent markets and may not be realized in an immediate sale of the financial instrument.
GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy 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 fair value hierarchy are as follows:
Level 1:Unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;
Level 2: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; and
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.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


The valuation techniques are based upon the unpaid principal balance only, and exclude any accrued interest or dividends at the measurement date. Interest income and expense and dividend income are recorded within the consolidated statements of income depending on the nature of the instrument using the effective interest method based on acquired discount or premium.
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The valuation techniques described below were used to measure fair value of financial instruments in the table below on a recurring basis as of December 31, 20172023 and December 31, 2016.2022.
Securities Available for Sale Debt Securities, at Fair Value
For securities available for sale debt securities, fair value was estimated using a market approach. The majority of the Company’s securities are fixed income instruments that are not quoted on an exchange, but are traded in active markets. Prices for these instruments are obtained through third-party data service providers or dealer market participants with whichwhom the Company has historically transacted both purchases and sales of securities. Prices obtained from these sources include market quotations and matrix pricing. Matrix pricing, a Level 2 input, is a mathematical technique used principally to value certain securities to
122


benchmark or to comparable securities. The Company evaluates the quality of Level 2 matrix pricing through comparison to similar assets with greater liquidity and evaluation of projected cash flows. As the Companymanagement is responsible for the determination of fair value, it performs a quarterly analysis ofanalyses on the prices received from the pricing service to determine whether the prices are reasonable estimates of fair value. Specifically, the Companymanagement compares the prices received from the pricing service to a secondary pricing source. Additionally, the Companymanagement compares changes in the reported market values and returns to relevant market indices to test the reasonableness of the reported prices. The Company’s internal price verification procedures and review of fair value methodology documentation provided by independent pricing services has generally not historically resulted in an adjustment in the prices obtained from the pricing service. The Company also may hold equity securities andholds debt instruments issued by the U.S. government and U.S. government-sponsored agencies that are traded in active markets with readily accessible quoted market prices that are considered Level 1 inputs.within the fair value hierarchy.
Equity Securities, at Fair Value
The Company holds equity securities that are traded in active markets with readily determinable fair value using quoted market prices.
Derivatives
The Company records all derivatives on the statements of financial condition at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative, whether the Company has elected to designate a derivative in a hedging relationship and apply hedge accounting and whether the hedging relationship has satisfied the criteria necessary to apply hedge accounting. The Company has interest rate derivatives resulting from a service provided to certain qualified borrowers in a loan related transaction and,which, therefore, are not used to manage interest rate risk in the Company’s assets or liabilities. As such, all changes in fair value of the Company’sthese derivatives are recognized directly in earnings.
The Company also uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges, and which satisfy hedge accounting requirements, involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Company making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without the exchange of the underlying notional amount. These derivatives were used to hedge the variable cash outflows associated with FHLBNY borrowings.borrowings and brokered demand deposits. The effective portion of changeschange in the fair value of these derivatives areis recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), and areis subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of these derivatives are recognized directly intransactions affect earnings.
The fair value of the Company's derivatives areis determined using discounted cash flow analysis using observable market-based inputs, which are considered Level 2 inputs.
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis
The valuation techniques described below were used to estimate fair value of financial instruments measured on a non-recurring basis as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016.2022.
Collateral Dependent Impaired Loans
For loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral, fair value was estimated using a market approach. The Company measures the fair value of collateral underlying impaired loans primarily through obtaining independent appraisals that rely upon quoted market prices for similar assets in active markets. These appraisals include adjustments, on an individual case-by-case basis, to comparable assets based on the appraisers’ market knowledge and experience, as well as
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


adjustments for estimated costs to sell between 5% and 10%. The CompanyManagement classifies these loans as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.
Foreclosed Assets
Assets acquired through foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure are carried at the lower of the outstanding loan balance at the time of foreclosure or fair value, less estimated selling costs, which range between 5% and 10%. Fair value is generally based on independent appraisals that rely upon quoted market prices for similar assets in active markets. These appraisals include adjustments, on an individual case basis, to comparable assets based on the appraisers’ market knowledge and experience, and are classified as Level 3. When an asset is acquired, the excess of the loan balance over fair value less estimated selling costs is charged to the allowance for loancredit losses. A reserve for foreclosed assets may be established to
123


provide for possible write-downs and selling costs that occur subsequent to foreclosure. Foreclosed assets are carried net of the related reserve. Operating results from real estate owned, including rental income, operating expenses, and gains and losses realized from the sales of real estate owned, are recorded as incurred.
There were no changes to the valuation techniques for fair value measurements during the years ended December 31, 20172023 and 2016.2022.
The following tables present the assets and liabilities reported on the consolidated statements of financial condition at their fair value as of December 31, 20172023 and 2016,2022, by level within the fair value hierarchy (in thousands).:
  Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using:
 December 31, 2023
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Measured on a recurring basis:
Available for sale debt securities:
U.S. Treasury obligations$253,878 $253,878 — — 
Agency guaranteed obligations27,498 — 27,498 — 
Mortgage-backed securities1,285,609 — 1,285,609 — 
Asset-backed securities32,235 — 32,235 — 
State and municipal obligations56,584 — 56,584 — 
Corporate obligations34,308 — 34,308 — 
Total available for sale debt securities$1,690,112 253,878 1,436,234 — 
Equity Securities1,270 1,270 — — 
Derivative assets101,754 — 101,754 
$1,793,136 255,148 1,537,988 — 
Derivative liabilities$88,835 — 88,835 — 
Measured on a non-recurring basis:
Loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral$24,139 — — 24,139 
Foreclosed assets11,651 — — 11,651 
$35,790 — — 35,790 
124


   Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using:
 December 31, 2017 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Measured on a recurring basis:       
Securities available for sale:       
Agency obligations$19,005
 19,005
 
 
Mortgage-backed securities988,367
 
 988,367
 
State and municipal obligations3,388
 
 3,388
 
Corporate obligations26,394
 
 26,394
 
Equities658
 658
 
 
Total securities available for sale$1,037,812
 19,663
 1,018,149
 
Derivative assets7,219
 
 7,219
  
 $1,045,031
 19,663
 1,025,368
 
        
Derivative liabilities$6,315
 
 6,315
 
        
Measured on a non-recurring basis:       
Loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral$6,971
 
 
 6,971
Foreclosed assets6,864
 
 
 6,864
 $13,835
 
 
 13,835
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


  Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using:  Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using:
December 31, 2016 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
December 31, 2022
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Measured on a recurring basis:       
Securities available for sale:       
Available for sale debt securities:
Available for sale debt securities:
Available for sale debt securities:
U.S. Treasury obligations$8,008
 8,008
 
 
Agency obligations57,188
 57,188
 
 
U.S. Treasury obligations
U.S. Treasury obligations
Mortgage-backed securities951,861
 
 951,861
 
Mortgage-backed securities
Mortgage-backed securities
Asset-backed securities
State and municipal obligations3,743
 
 3,743
 
Corporate obligations19,037
 
 19,037
 
Equities549
 549
 
 
Total securities available for sale$1,040,386
 65,745
 974,641
 
Total available for sale debt securities
Equity Securities
Derivative assets7,441
 
 7,441
 
$
$1,047,827
 65,745
 982,082
 
       
Derivative liabilities
Derivative liabilities
Derivative liabilities$6,750
 
 6,750
 
       
Measured on a non-recurring basis:       
Measured on a non-recurring basis:
Measured on a non-recurring basis:
Loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral
Loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral
Loans measured for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral$11,001
 
 
 11,001
Foreclosed assets7,991
 
 
 7,991
$18,992
 
 
 18,992
$
There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 during the years ended December 31, 20172023 and 2016.2022.
Other Fair Value Disclosures
The Company is required to disclose estimated fair value of financial instruments, both assets and liabilities on and off the balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate fair value. The following is a description of valuation methodologies used for those assets and liabilities.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
For cash and due from banks, federal funds sold and short-term investments, the carrying amount approximates fair value. As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, $70,000 was included in cash and cash equivalents, representing cash collateral pledged to secure loan level swaps and risk participation agreements.
Investment Securities Held to Maturity Debt Securities, Net of Allowance for Credit Losses
For investment securities held to maturity debt securities, fair value was estimated using a market approach. The majority of the Company’s securities are fixed income instruments that are not quoted on an exchange, but are traded in active markets. Prices for these instruments are obtained through third party data service providers or dealer market participants with whichwhom the Company has historically transacted both purchases and sales of securities. Prices obtained from these sources include market quotations and matrix pricing. Matrix pricing, a Level 2 input, is a mathematical technique used principally to value certain securities to benchmark orto comparable securities. The CompanyManagement evaluates the quality of Level 2 matrix pricing through comparison to similar assets with greater liquidity and evaluation of projected cash flows. As the Companymanagement is responsible for the determination of fair value, it performs quarterly analysis ofanalyses on the prices received from the pricing service to determine whether the prices are reasonable estimates of fair value. Specifically, the Companymanagement compares the prices received from the pricing service to a secondary pricing source. Additionally, the Companymanagement compares changes in the reported market values and returns to relevant market indices to test the reasonableness of the reported prices. The Company’s internal price verification procedures and review of fair value methodology documentation provided by independent pricing services has generally not historically resulted in adjustment in the prices obtained from the pricing service. The Company also holds debt instruments issued by the U.S. government and U.S. governmentgovernment-sponsored agencies that are traded in active markets with readily accessible quoted market prices that are considered Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

125



FHLBNY Stock
The carrying value of FHLBNY stock wasis its cost. The fair value of FHLBNY stock is based on redemption at par value. The Company classifies the estimated fair value as Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy.
Loans
Fair values are estimated for portfolios of loans with similar financial characteristics. Loans are segregated by type such as commercial mortgage, residential mortgage, commercial, construction and consumer. Each loan category is further segmented into fixed and adjustable rate interest terms and into performing and non-performing categories. The fair value of performing loans was estimated using a combination of techniques, including a discounted cash flow model that utilizes a discount rate that reflects the Company’s current pricing for loans with similar characteristics and remaining maturity, adjusted by an amount for estimated credit losses inherent in the portfolio at the balance sheet date.date (i.e. exit pricing). The rates take into account the expected yield curve, as well as an adjustment for prepayment risk, when applicable. The Company classifies the estimated fair value of its loan portfolio as Level 3.
The fair value for significant non-performing loans was based on recent external appraisals of collateral securing such loans, adjusted for the timing of anticipated cash flows. The Company classifies the estimated fair value of its non-performing loan portfolio as Level 3.
Deposits
The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as non-interest bearing demand deposits and savings deposits, was equal to the amount payable on demand and classified as Level 1. The estimated fair value of certificates of deposit was based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows. The discount rate was estimated using the Company’s current rates offered for deposits with similar remaining maturities. The Company classifies the estimated fair value of its certificates of deposit portfolio as Level 2.
Borrowed Funds
The fair value of borrowed funds was estimated by discounting future cash flows using rates available for debt with similar terms and maturities and is classified by the Company as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.
Commitments to Extend Credit and Letters of Credit
The fair value of commitments to extend credit and letters of credit was estimated using the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the present creditworthiness of the counterparties. For fixed rate loan commitments, fair value also considers the difference between current levels of interest rates and the committed rates. The Company classifies these commitments as Level 3 within the fair value estimates of commitments to extend credit and letters of credit are deemed immaterial.hierarchy.
Limitations
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.
Significant assets and liabilities that are not considered financial assets or liabilities include goodwill and other intangibles, deferred tax assets 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 estimates.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

126



The following tables present the Company’s financial instruments at their carrying and fair values as of December 31, 20172023 and December 31, 2016.2022. Fair values are presented by level within the fair value hierarchy.hierarchy:
  Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2023 Using:
(Dollars in thousands)
Carrying
value
Fair
value
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$180,255 180,255 180,255 — — 
Available for sale debt securities:
U.S. Treasury obligations$253,878 253,878 253,878 — — 
Agency guaranteed obligations27,498 27,498 — 27,498 — 
Mortgage-backed securities1,285,609 1,285,609 — 1,285,609 — 
Asset-backed securities32,235 32,235 — 32,235 — 
State and municipal obligations56,584 56,584 — 56,584 — 
Corporate obligations34,308 34,308 — 34,308 — 
Total available for sale debt securities$1,690,112 1,690,112 253,878 1,436,234 — 
Held to maturity debt securities, net of allowance for credit losses:
U.S. Treasury obligations$5,146 5,147 5,147 — — 
Agency-sponsored obligations11,058 10,406 10,406 — — 
State and municipal obligations339,789 330,360 — 330,360 — 
Corporate obligations7,087 6,688 — 6,688 — 
Total held to maturity debt securities, net of allowance for credit losses$363,080 352,601 15,553 337,048 — 
FHLBNY stock79,217 79,217 79,217 — — 
Equity Securities1,270 1,270 1,270 — — 
Loans, net of allowance for credit losses10,766,501 10,437,204 — — 10,437,204 
Derivative assets101,754 101,754 — 101,754 — 
Financial liabilities:
Deposits other than certificates of deposits$9,196,572 9,196,572 9,196,572 — — 
Certificates of deposit1,095,942 1,093,125 — 1,093,125 — 
Total deposits$10,292,514 10,289,697 9,196,572 1,093,125 — 
Borrowings1,970,033 1,960,174 — 1,960,174 — 
Subordinated Debentures10,695 9,198 — 9,198 — 
Derivative liabilities88,835 88,835 — 88,835 — 
127


  Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017 Using:  Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2022 Using:
(Dollars in thousands)
Carrying
value
 
Fair
value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
(Dollars in thousands)
Carrying
value
Fair
value
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Financial assets:         
Cash and cash equivalents$190,834
 190,834
 190,834
 
 
Securities available for sale:         
Agency obligations19,005
 19,005
 19,005
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents
Available for sale debt securities:
U.S. Treasury obligations
U.S. Treasury obligations
U.S. Treasury obligations
Mortgage-backed securities988,367
 988,367
 
 988,367
 
Mortgage-backed securities
Mortgage-backed securities
Asset-backed securities
State and municipal obligations3,388
 3,388
 
 3,388
 
Corporate obligations26,394
 26,394
 
 26,394
 
Equity securities658
 658
 658
 
 
Total securities available for sale$1,037,812
 1,037,812
 19,663
 1,018,149
 
Investment securities held to maturity:         
Agency obligations$4,308
 4,221
 4,221
 
 
Mortgage-backed securities382
 396
 
 396
 
Total available for sale debt securities
Held to maturity debt securities:
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
Agency-sponsored obligations
State and municipal obligations
State and municipal obligations
State and municipal obligations462,942
 470,484
 
 470,484
 
Corporate obligations10,020
 9,938
 
 9,938
 
Total securities held to maturity$477,652
 485,039
 4,221
 480,818
 
Total held to maturity debt securities, net of allowance for credit losses
FHLBNY stock81,184
 81,184
 81,184
 
 
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses7,265,523
 7,217,705
 
 
 7,217,705
Equity Securities
Loans, net of allowance for credit losses
Derivative assets7,219
 7,219
 
 7,219
 
         
Financial liabilities:         
Financial liabilities:
Financial liabilities:
Deposits other than certificates of deposits
Deposits other than certificates of deposits
Deposits other than certificates of deposits$6,079,357
 6,079,357
 6,079,357
 
 
Certificates of deposit634,809
 632,744
 
 632,744
 
Total deposits$6,714,166
 6,712,101
 6,079,357
 632,744
 
Borrowings1,742,514
 1,739,102
 
 1,739,102
 
Subordinated Debentures
Derivative liabilities6,315
 6,315
 
 6,315
 


PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
128
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015




   Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016 Using:
(Dollars in thousands)
Carrying
value
 
Fair
value
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
Financial assets:         
Cash and cash equivalents$144,297
 144,297
 144,297
 
 
Securities available for sale:         
U.S. Treasury obligations8,008
 8,008
 8,008
 
 
Agency obligations57,188
 57,188
 57,188
 
 
Mortgage-backed securities951,861
 951,861
 
 951,861
 
State and municipal obligations3,743
 3,743
 
 3,743
 
Corporate obligations19,037
 19,037
 
 19,037
 
Equity securities549
 549
 549
 
 
Total securities available for sale$1,040,386
 1,040,386
 65,745
 974,641
 
Investment securities held to maturity:         
Agency obligations$4,306
 4,225
 4,225
 
 
Mortgage-backed securities893
 924
 
 924
 
State and municipal obligations473,653
 474,852
 
 474,852
 
Corporate obligations9,331
 9,286
 
 9,286
 
Total securities held to maturity$488,183
 489,287
 4,225
 485,062
 
FHLBNY stock75,726
 75,726
 75,726
 
 
Loans, net of allowance for loan losses6,941,603
 6,924,440
 
 
 6,924,440
Derivative assets7,441
 7,441
 

 7,441
 
          
Financial liabilities:         
Deposits other than certificates of deposits$5,902,446
 5,902,446
 5,902,446
 
 
Certificates of deposit651,183
 653,772
 
 653,772
 
Total deposits$6,553,629
 6,556,218
 5,902,446
 653,772
 
Borrowings1,612,745
 1,617,023
 
 1,617,023
 
Derivative liabilities6,750
 6,750
 

 6,750
 


PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


(17) Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
The following tables are a summary of certain quarterly financial data for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 2017 Quarters Ended
 March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31
 (In thousands, except per share data)
Interest income$77,913
 80,443
 81,894
 83,596
Interest expense10,878
 11,388
 11,682
 11,696
Net interest income67,035
 69,055
 70,212
 71,900
Provision for loan losses1,500
 1,700
 500
 1,900
Net interest income after provision for loan losses65,535
 67,355
 69,712
 70,000
Non-interest income12,465
 14,819
 15,112
 13,301
Non-interest expense46,124
 47,340
 46,280
 48,078
Income before income tax expense31,876
 34,834
 38,544
 35,223
Income tax expense8,368
 10,451
 11,969
 15,740
Net income$23,508
 24,383
 26,575
 19,483
Basic earnings per share$0.37
 0.38
 0.41
 0.30
Diluted earnings per share$0.37
 0.38
 0.41
 0.30

 2016 Quarters Ended
 March 31 June 30 September 30 December 31
 (In thousands, except per share data)
Interest income$73,974
 74,805
 76,045
 77,491
Interest expense10,905
 10,895
 11,074
 10,874
Net interest income63,069
 63,910
 64,971
 66,617
Provision for loan losses1,500
 1,700
 1,000
 1,200
Net interest income after provision for loan losses61,569
 62,210
 63,971
 65,417
Non-interest income13,018
 13,824
 14,066
 14,485
Non-interest expense44,878
 45,897
 45,850
 47,153
Income before income tax expense29,709
 30,137
 32,187
 32,749
Income tax expense8,736
 8,781
 9,281
 10,182
Net income$20,973
 21,356
 22,906
 22,567
Basic earnings per share$0.33
 0.34
 0.36
 0.35
Diluted earnings per share$0.33
 0.34
 0.36
 0.35

PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


(18)(20) Earnings Per Share
The following is a reconciliation of the outstanding shares used in the basic and diluted earnings per share calculations. 
For the Year Ended December 31,For the Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)For the Year Ended December 31,
2017 2016 2015
(In thousands, except per share data)(In thousands, except per share data)
Net income$93,949
 87,802
 83,722
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding64,384,851
 63,643,622
 62,945,669
Plus:     
Dilutive shares194,371
 208,364
 169,049
Dilutive shares
Dilutive shares
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding64,579,222
 63,851,986
 63,114,718
Earnings per share:     
Basic$1.46
 1.38
 1.33
Basic
Basic
Diluted$1.45
 1.38
 1.33
Anti-dilutive stock options and awards totaling 369,7721,222,890 shares, 432,895884,333 shares and 469,018769,458 shares atas of December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 2015,2021, respectively, were excluded from the earnings per share calculations.

PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


(19)(21) Parent-only Financial Information
The condensed financial statements of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (parent company only) are presented below:
Condensed Statements of Financial Condition
(Dollars in Thousands)

December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Assets
Cash and due from banks$7,948 10,854 
Available for sale debt securities, at fair value1,084 960 
Investment in subsidiary1,652,767 1,544,518 
Due from subsidiary—SAP28,677 34,439 
ESOP loan6,411 13,228 
Other assets4,571 4,410 
Total assets$1,701,458 1,608,409 
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Other liabilities167 213 
Subordinated Debentures10,695 10,493 
Total stockholders’ equity1,690,596 1,597,703 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$1,701,458 1,608,409 





129

 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016
Assets   
Cash and due from banks$16,921
 31,851
Securities available for sale, at fair value658
 549
Investment in subsidiary1,244,670
 1,177,110
Due from subsidiary—SAP(4,419) (3,004)
ESOP loan41,419
 45,971
Other assets(37) (31)
Total assets$1,299,212
 1,252,446
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity   
Other liabilities551
 665
Total stockholders’ equity1,298,661
 1,251,781
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$1,299,212
 1,252,446

Condensed Statements of Operations
(Dollars in Thousands)
 For the Years Ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
Dividends from subsidiary$59,980
 45,369
 41,285
Interest income1,839
 1,995
 2,153
Investment gain17
 15
 12
Total income61,836
 47,379
 43,450
Non-interest expense1,021
 902
 812
Total expense1,021
 902
 812
Income before income tax expense60,815
 46,477
 42,638
Income tax expense312
 414
 505
Income before undistributed net income of subsidiary60,503
 46,063
 42,133
Earnings in excess of dividends (equity in undistributed net income) of subsidiary33,446
 41,739
 41,589
Net income$93,949
 87,802
 83,722
 For the Years Ended December 31,
 202320222021
Dividends from subsidiary$61,213 109,013 102,014 
Interest income529 785 1,022 
Investment gain169 178 167 
Total income61,911 109,976 103,203 
Subordinated debentures1,051 615 1,189 
Non-interest expense2,200 1,451 1,292 
Total expense3,251 2,066 2,481 
Income before income tax expense58,660 107,910 100,722 
Income tax expense247 — — 
Income before undistributed net income of subsidiary58,413 107,910 100,722 
Earnings in excess of dividends (equity in undistributed net income) of subsidiary69,985 67,738 67,199 
Net income$128,398 175,648 167,921 
 


PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

130



Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
(Dollars in Thousands)
 For the Years Ended December 31,
 202320222021
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income$128,398 175,648 167,921 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
Earnings in excess of dividends (equity in undistributed net income) of subsidiary(69,985)(67,738)(67,199)
ESOP allocation3,086 4,140 4,318 
SAP allocation7,569 9,407 5,451 
Stock option allocation144 198 200 
Decrease (increase) in due from subsidiary—SAP5,762 3,847 (4,061)
Increase in other assets(11,317)(13,817)(3,430)
Decrease in other liabilities(45)(142)(12)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities63,612 111,543 103,188 
Cash flows from investing activities:
Cash received, net of cash consideration paid for acquisition— — — 
Net decrease in ESOP loan6,817 6,387 5,939 
Net cash provided by investing activities6,817 6,387 5,939 
Cash flows from financing activities:
Purchases of treasury stock— (46,530)(20,711)
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding(1,678)(1,021)(961)
Cash dividends paid(72,447)(72,023)(71,478)
Repayment of subordinated debentures— — (15,000)
Shares issued dividend reinvestment plan— — — 
Stock options exercised790 — 887 
Net cash used in financing activities(73,335)(119,574)(107,263)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents(2,906)(1,644)1,864 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period10,854 12,498 10,634 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$7,948 10,854 12,498 

131
 For the Years Ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:     
Net income$93,949
 87,802
 83,722
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities     
Earnings in excess of dividends (equity in undistributed net income) of subsidiary(33,446) (41,739) (41,589)
ESOP allocation4,600
 3,706
 2,997
SAP allocation4,963
 3,812
 4,625
Stock option allocation203
 172
 272
Decrease in due from subsidiary—SAP1,415
 465
 5,333
Increase in other assets(34,919) (8,177) (8,406)
Decrease in other liabilities(114) (70) (55)
Net cash provided by operating activities36,651
 45,971
 46,899
Cash flows from investing activities:     
Net decrease in ESOP loan4,552
 3,901
 3,566
Net cash provided by investing activities4,552
 3,901
 3,566
Cash flows from financing activities:     
Purchases of treasury stock(443) (1,557) 
Purchase of employee restricted shares to fund statutory tax withholding(778) (1,225) (1,988)
Cash dividends paid(59,980) (45,369) (41,285)
Shares issued dividend reinvestment plan2,114
 1,652
 1,447
Stock options exercised2,954
 6,198
 3,166
Net cash used in financing activities(56,133) (40,301) (38,660)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents(14,930) 9,571
 11,805
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period31,851
 22,280
 10,475
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$16,921
 31,851
 22,280


PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015



(20)(22) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Income
The following table presents the components of other comprehensive (loss) income both gross and net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 (in thousands):
 For the Years Ended December 31,
 2017 2016 2015
 
Before
Tax
 
Tax
Effect
 
After
Tax
 
Before
Tax
 
Tax
Effect
 
After
Tax
 
Before
Tax
 
Tax
Effect
 
After
Tax
Components of Other Comprehensive (Loss)Income:                 
Unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale:                 
Net (losses) gains arising during the period$(3,612) 1,449
 (2,163) (7,405) 2,974
 (4,431) (5,683) 2,282
 (3,401)
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income
 
 
 (50) 20
 (30) (654) 263
 (391)
Total(3,612) 1,449
 (2,163) (7,455) 2,994
 (4,461) (6,337) 2,545
 (3,792)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives (cash flow hedges)633
 (254) 379
 404
 (162) 242
 (122) 49
 (73)
Amortization related to post retirement obligations(1,475) 586
 (889) 5,628
 (2,260) 3,368
 2,156
 (866) 1,290
Total other comprehensive (loss) income$(4,454) 1,781
 (2,673) (1,423) 572
 (851) (4,303) 1,728
 (2,575)
The Company, in accordance with ASU No. 2018-02, has elected to reclassify the income tax effects of the Tax Act from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income to retained earning for the year ended December 31, 2017
 For the Years Ended December 31,
 202320222021
 
Before
Tax
Tax
Effect
After
Tax
Before
Tax
Tax
Effect
After
Tax
Before
Tax
Tax
Effect
After
Tax
Components of Other Comprehensive Income ( Loss):
Unrealized losses on available for sale debt securities:
Net (losses) gains arising during the period$43,250 (11,125)32,125 (254,591)68,230 (186,361)(31,972)8,242 (23,730)
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income— — — (58)16 (42)(230)59 (171)
Total43,250 (11,125)32,125 (254,649)68,246 (186,403)(32,202)8,301 (23,901)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
Net (losses) gains arising during the period3,288 (900)2,388 26,231 (7,030)19,201 8,311 (2,142)6,169 
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income(17,713)4,765 (12,948)(4,504)1,207 (3,297)3,878 (1,000)2,878 
Total(14,425)3,865 (10,560)21,727 (5,823)15,904 12,189 (3,142)9,047 
Amortization related to post-retirement obligations3,249 (884)2,365 (1,926)517 (1,409)5,474 (1,412)4,062 
Total other comprehensive (loss) income$32,074 (8,144)23,930 (234,848)62,940 (171,908)(14,539)3,747 (10,792)
The following table presents the changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 20172023 and 2016, including the reclassification of income tax effects due to the adoption of ASU No. 2018-02 for the year ended December 31, 20172022 (in thousands):
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component, net of tax
For the Years Ended December 31,
202320232022
Unrealized
Losses on
Available for Sale Debt Securities
Unrealized
Losses on
Available for Sale Debt Securities
Post-Retirement
Obligations
Unrealized Gains on Derivatives (cash flow hedges)Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Unrealized
Gains (Losses) on
Available for Sale Debt Securities
Post-Retirement
Obligations
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Derivatives (cash flow hedges)Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Balance at the beginning of the period
Current period change in other comprehensive (loss) income
 
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income by Component, net of tax
For the Years Ended December 31,
 2017 2016
Balance at the end of the period
 
Unrealized
Gains on Securities
Available for 
Sale
 Post-Retirement
Obligations
 Unrealized gains (losses) on Derivatives (cash flow hedges) Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
(Loss) Income
 
Unrealized
Gains on Securities
Available for 
Sale
 Post-Retirement
Obligations
 Unrealized gains (losses) on Derivatives (cash flow hedges) Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
(Loss) Income
Balance at the beginning of the period $(510) (3,056) 169
 (3,397) 3,951
 (6,424) (73) (2,546)
Current period change in other comprehensive income (loss) (2,163) (889) 379
 (2,673) (4,461) 3,368
 242
 (851)
Reclassification of tax effects due to the adoption of ASU No. 2018-02 (619) (901) 125
 (1,395) 
 
 
 
Balance at the end of the period $(3,292) (4,846) 673
 (7,465) (510) (3,056) 169
 (3,397)
Balance at the end of the period
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

132



The following table summarizes the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 (in thousands):
Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
Amount reclassified from AOCI for the years ended December 31,Amount reclassified from AOCI for the years ended December 31,Affected line item in the Consolidated
Statement of Income
2023
Details of AOCI:
Details of AOCI:
Details of AOCI:
Available for sale debt securities:
Available for sale debt securities:
Available for sale debt securities:
Realized net gains on the sale of securities available for sale
Realized net gains on the sale of securities available for sale
Realized net gains on the sale of securities available for sale$— (58)(230)Net gain on securities transactions
16 59 Income tax expense
(42)(171)Net of tax
Cash flow hedges:
Cash flow hedges:
Cash flow hedges:
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges(17,713)(4,504)3,878 Interest expense
4,765 4,765 1,207 (1,000)Income tax expense
(12,948)
 Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 Amount reclassified from AOCI for the years ended December 31, Affected line item in the Consolidated
Statement of Income
 2017 2016 2015  
Details of AOCI:        
Securities available for sale:        
Realized net gains on the sale of securities available for sale $
 50
 654
 Net gain on securities transactions
Post-retirement obligations:
 
 (20) (263) Income tax expense
 
 30
 391
 Net of tax
        
Post-retirement obligations:        
Amortization of actuarial losses 243
 943
 774
 
Compensation and employee benefits (1)
Post-retirement obligations:
Amortization of actuarial (gains) losses
Amortization of actuarial (gains) losses
Amortization of actuarial (gains) losses(1,421)(1304)(598)
Compensation and employee benefits (1)
384 384 349 154 Income tax expense
(1,037)(1,037)(955)(444)Net of tax
 (64) (379) (311) Income tax expense
 179
 564
 463
 Net of tax
        
Total reclassifications $179
 594
 854
 Net of tax
       
Total reclassifications
Total reclassifications$(13,985)(4,293)2,263 Net of tax
(1) This item is included in the computation of net periodic benefit cost. See Note 11.13. Benefit Plans


PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
133
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015




Note 21.(23) Derivative and Hedging Activities
The Company is exposed to certain risks arising from both its business operations and economic conditions. The Company principally manages its exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through the management of its core business activities. The Company manages economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity, and credit risk, primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of its assets and liabilities.
Non-designated Hedges. Derivatives not designated in qualifying hedging relationships are not speculative and result from a service the Company provides to certain qualified commercial borrowers in loan related transactions and,which, therefore, are not used to manage interest rate risk in the Company’s assets or liabilities. The Company executesmay execute interest rate swaps with qualified commercial banking customers to facilitate their respective risk management strategies. Those interest rate swaps are simultaneously hedged by offsetting interest rate swaps that the Company executes with a third party, such that the Company minimizes its net risk exposure resulting from such transactions. The interest rate swap agreement which the Company executes with the commercial borrower is collateralized by the borrower's commercial real estate financed by the Company. The collateral exceedsAs the maximum potential amount of future payments under the credit derivative. As theCompany has not elected to apply hedge accounting and these interest rate swaps associated with this program do not meet the hedge accounting requirements, changes in the fair value of both the customer swaps and the offsetting swaps are recognized directly in earnings. For the years endedAs of December 31, 20172023 and December 31, 2016,2022, the Company had 50154 and 36152 interest rate swaps with an aggregate notional amount of $734.3 million$2.30 billion and $582.2 million, respectively,$2.40 billion, respectively.
The Company periodically enters into risk participation agreements ("RPAs"), with the Company functioning as either the lead institution, or as a participant when another company is the lead institution on a commercial loan. These RPAs are entered into to manage the credit exposure on interest rate contracts associated with these loan participation agreements. Under the RPAs, the Company will either receive or make a payment in the event the borrower defaults on the related to this program.interest rate contract. The Company has minimum collateral posting thresholds with certain of its risk participation counterparties, and has posted collateral of $70,000 against the potential risk of default by the borrower under these agreements. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company had 12 and 14 credit derivatives, resultingrespectively, with aggregate notional amounts of $142.8 million and $157.9 million, respectively, from participations in interest rate swaps provided to external lenders as part of these loan participation arrangements; therefore, they are not usedarrangements. As of December 31, 2023, the asset and liability positions of these fair value credit derivatives totaled $17,000 and $8,000, respectively, compared to manage interest rate risk in the Company's assets or liabilities.$26,000 and $12,000, respectively, as of December 31, 2022 .
Cash flowFlow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk. The Company’s objective in using interest rate derivatives is to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish this objective, the Company primarily uses interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable payment amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Company making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying notional amount. 
The effective portion of changesChanges in the fair value of derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. During the years ended December 31, 20172023, 2022 and 2016,2021, such derivatives were used to hedge the variable cash outflows associated with Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives is recognized directly in earnings. The Company implemented this program during the quarter ended September 30, 2015. During the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016FHLBNY borrowings and 2015, the Company’s did not record any hedge ineffectiveness.brokered demand deposits.
Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to derivatives will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on the Company’s debt.borrowings or demand deposits. During the next twelve months, the Company estimates that $127,492$11.6 million will be reclassified as a decreasereduction to interest expense. As of December 31, 2017,2023, the Company had two9 outstanding interest rate derivatives with aan aggregate notional amount of $60.0$455.0 million that was designated as a cash flow hedge of interest rate risk.
The table below presents the fair value of the Company’s derivativeAssets and liabilities relating to certain financial instruments, as well as their classification onincluding derivatives, may be eligible for offset in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition asand/or subject to enforceable master netting arrangements or similar agreements. The Company does not offset asset and liabilities under such arrangements in the Consolidated Statements of December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands):
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


  As of December 31, 2017
  Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives
  Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition 
Fair
Value
 Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition 
Fair
Value
Derivatives not designated as a hedging instruments:        
Interest rate products Other assets $6,303
 Other liabilities $6,315
Credit contracts Other assets 1
   
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments   $6,304
   $6,315
         
Derivatives designated as a hedging instrument:        
Interest rate products Other assets $915
 Other liabilities $
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments   $915
   $
  As of December 31, 2016
  Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives
  Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition 
Fair
Value
 Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition 
Fair
Value
Derivatives not designated as a hedging instruments:        
Interest rate products Other assets $7,156
 Other liabilities $6,750
Credit contracts Other assets 3
   
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments   $7,159
   $6,750
         
Derivatives designated as a hedging instrument:        
Interest rate products Other assets $282
 Other liabilities $
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments   $282
   $
Condition.
The tables below present a gross presentation, the effects of offsetting, and a net presentation of the Company’s financial instruments that are eligible for offset in the Consolidated Statements of Condition as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 (in thousands).
134


Fair Values of Derivative Instruments as of December 31, 2023
Asset DerivativesLiability Derivatives
Notional AmountConsolidated Statements of Financial Condition
Fair
 value (2)
Notional AmountConsolidated Statements of Financial Condition
Fair
 value (2)
Derivatives not designated as a hedging instrument:
Interest rate products$1,152,200 Other assets$89,261 $1,152,200 Other liabilities$89,461 
Credit contracts46,359 Other assets17 96,462 Other liabilities
Total derivatives not designated as a hedging instrument89,278 89,469 
Derivatives designated as a hedging instrument:
Interest rate products330,000 Other assets15,886 125,000 Other liabilities1,365 
Total gross derivative amounts recognized on the balance sheet105,164 90,834 
Gross amounts offset on the balance sheet— — 
Net derivative amounts presented on the balance sheet$105,164 $90,834 
Gross amounts not offset on the balance sheet:
Financial instruments - institutional counterparties$— $— 
Cash collateral - institutional counterparties (1)
101,328 — 
Net derivatives not offset$3,836 $90,834 
135


Fair Values of Derivative Instruments as of December 31, 2022
Asset DerivativesLiability Derivatives
Notional AmountConsolidated Statements of Financial Condition
Fair
 value (2)
Notional AmountConsolidated Statements of Financial Condition
Fair
 value (2)
Derivatives not designated as a hedging instrument:
Interest rate products$1,198,191 Other assets$122,047 $1,198,191 Other liabilities$122,378 
Credit contracts47,143 Other assets26 110,714 Other liabilities12 
Total derivatives not designated as a hedging instrument122,073 122,390 
Derivatives designated as a hedging instrument:
Interest rate products460,000 Other assets29,119 — Other liabilities— 
Total gross derivative amounts recognized on the balance sheet151,192 122,390 
Gross amounts offset on the balance sheet— — 
Net derivative amounts presented on the balance sheet151,192 $122,390 
Gross amounts not offset on the balance sheet:
Financial instruments - institutional counterparties$— — 
Cash collateral - institutional counterparties (1)
149,800 — 
Net derivatives not offset$1,392 $122,390 
(1) Cash collateral represents the amount that cannot be used to offset our derivative assets and liabilities from a gross basis to a net basis in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance. The application of the cash collateral cannot reduce the net derivative position below zero. Therefore, excess cash collateral, if any, is not reflected above.
(2) The fair values related to interest rate products in the above net derivative tables show the total value of assets and liabilities, which include accrued interest receivable and accrued interest payable for the periods ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.






136


The table below presents the effect of the Company’s derivative financial instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2017, 20162023, 2022 and 20152021 (in thousands).
    Gain (loss) recognized in Income on derivatives
    For the Year Ended December 31,
  Consolidated Statements of Income 2017 2016 2015
Derivatives not designated as a hedging instruments:        
Interest rate products Other income $(422) $186
 $238
Credit contracts Other income 2
 120
 (1)
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments   $(420) $306
 $237
         
Derivatives designated as a hedging instruments:        
Interest rate products Interest expense (205) (394) (122)
Total derivatives designated as a hedging instruments   $(205) $(394) $(122)
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015


Gain recognized in Income on derivatives
For the Year Ended December 31,
Consolidated Statements of Income202320222021
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Interest rate productsOther income$133 722 384 
Credit contractsOther income(7)(49)29 
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments$126 673 413 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: (Gain) Loss recognized in Expense on derivatives
Interest rate productsInterest (income) expense$(17,713)(4,504)3,878 
Total derivatives designated as a hedging instruments$(17,713)(4,504)3,878 
The Company has agreements with certain of its derivativedealer counterparties thatwhich contain a provision that if the Company defaults on any of its indebtedness, including a default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then the Company could also be declareddeemed in default on its derivative obligations.
In addition, the Company has agreements with certain of its derivativedealer counterparties thatwhich contain a provision that if the Company fails to maintain its status as a well/well or adequately capitalized institution, then the counterparty could terminate the derivative positions and the Company would be required to settle its obligations under the agreements.
As of December 31, 2017, the termination value of derivatives in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest, was $352,000. The Company has minimum collateral posting thresholds with certain of its derivative counterparties, and has posted collateral of $250,000 against its obligations under these agreements. If2023, the Company had breached anyfour dealer counterparties. The Company had a net asset position with respect to all of its counterparties.
(24) Revenue Recognition
The Company generates revenue from several business channels. The guidance in ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) does not apply to revenue associated with financial instruments, including interest income on loans and investments, which comprise the majority of the Company's revenue. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 the out-of-scope revenue related to financial instruments were 89%, 84% and 82% of the Company's total revenue, respectively. Revenue-generating activities that are within the scope of Topic 606, are components of non-interest income. These revenue streams can generally be classified into wealth management revenue, insurance agency income and banking service charges and other fees.
The following table presents non-interest income, segregated by revenue streams in-scope and out-of-scope of Topic 606, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
137


 December 31,
(in-thousands)202320222021
Non-interest income
In-scope of Topic 606:
Wealth management fees$27,669 27,870 30,756 
Insurance agency income13,934 11,440 10,216 
Banking service charges and other fees:
Service charges on deposit accounts12,959 12,553 10,921 
Debit card and ATM fees2,963 3,124 5,665 
Total banking service charges and other fees15,922 15,677 16,586 
Total in-scope non-interest income57,525 54,987 57,558 
Total out-of-scope non-interest income22,304 32,802 29,251 
Total non-interest income$79,829 87,789 86,809 
Wealth management fee income represents fees earned from customers as consideration for asset management, investment advisory and trust services. The Company’s performance obligation is generally satisfied monthly and the resulting fees are recognized monthly. The fee is generally based upon the average market value of the assets under management ("AUM") for the month and the applicable fee rate. The monthly accrual of wealth management fees is recorded in other assets on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. Fees are received from the customer on a monthly basis. The Company does not earn performance-based incentives. To a lesser extent, optional services such as tax return preparation and estate settlement are also available to existing customers. The Company’s performance obligation for these transaction-based services is generally satisfied, and related revenue recognized, at either a point in time when the service is completed, or in the case of estate settlement, over a relatively short period of time, as each service component is completed.
Insurance agency income, consisting of commissions and fees, is generally recognized as of the effective date of the insurance policy. Commission revenues related to installment billings are recognized on the invoice date. Subsequent commission adjustments are recognized upon the receipt of notification from insurance companies concerning matters necessitating such adjustments. Profit-sharing contingent commissions are recognized when determinable, which is generally when such commissions are received from insurance companies, or when the Company receives formal notification of the amount of such payments.
Service charges on deposit accounts include overdraft service fees, account analysis fees and other deposit related fees. These fees are generally transaction-based, or time-based services. The Company's performance obligation for these services is generally satisfied, and revenue recognized, at the time the transaction is completed, or the service rendered. Fees for these services are generally received from the customer either at the time of transaction, or monthly. Debit card and ATM fees are generally transaction-based. Debit card revenue is primarily comprised of interchange fees earned when a customer's Company card is processed through a card payment network. ATM fees are largely generated when a Company cardholder uses a non-Company ATM, or a non-Company cardholder uses a Company ATM. The Company's performance obligation for these services is satisfied when the service is rendered. Payment is generally received at time of transaction or monthly.
Out-of-scope non-interest income primarily consists of Bank-owned life insurance and net fees on loan level interest rate swaps, along with gains and losses on the sale of loans and foreclosed real estate, loan prepayment fees and loan servicing fees. None of these provisions atrevenue streams are subject to the requirements of Topic 606.





138


(25) Leases
The following table represents the consolidated statements of financial condition classification of the Company’s right-of use-assets and lease liabilities as of December 31, 2017, it could have been required2023 and December 31, 2022 (in thousands):
ClassificationDecember 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Lease Right-of-Use Assets:
Operating lease right-of-use assetsOther assets$56,907 $60,577 
Lease Liabilities:
Operating lease liabilitiesOther liabilities$60,039 $63,372 
The calculated amount of the right-of-use assets and lease liabilities in the table above are impacted by the length of the lease term and the discount rate used to settle its obligations underpresent value the minimum lease payments. The Company’s lease agreements often include one or more options to renew at the termination value.Company’s discretion. If at lease inception the Company considers the exercising of a renewal option to be reasonably certain, the Company will include the extended term in the calculation of the right-of-use asset and lease liability. Regarding the discount rate, Topic 842 requires the use of the rate implicit in the lease whenever this rate is readily determinable. As this rate is rarely determinable, the Company utilizes its incremental borrowing rate at lease inception based upon the term of the lease. For operating leases existing prior to January 1, 2019, the rate for the remaining lease term as of January 1, 2019 was applied.

All of the leases in which the Company is the lessee are classified as operating leases and are primarily comprised of real estate property for branches and administrative offices with terms extending through 2040.

As of December 31, 2023, the weighted-average remaining lease term and the weighted-average discount rate for the Company's operating leases were 7.9 years and 2.71%, respectively.
Item 9.Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
The following table represents lease costs and other lease information for the Company's operating leases. The variable lease cost primarily represents variable payments such as common area maintenance and utilities (in thousands):
Year ended December 31, 2023Year ended December 31, 2022
Lease Costs
Operating lease cost$10,495 10,617 
Variable lease cost3,193 2,722 
Total Lease Cost$13,688 13,339 

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities (in thousands):Year ended December 31, 2023Year ended December 31, 2022
Operating cash flows from operating leases$9,904 8,665 







139


Future minimum payments for operating leases with initial or remaining terms of one year or more as of December 31, 2023 were as follows (in thousands):
Operating Leases
Years ended:
2022$10,020 
20239,540 
20248,647 
20257,813 
20266,926 
Thereafter23,850 
Total future minimum lease payments66,796 
Amounts representing interest6,757 
Present value of net future minimum lease payments$60,039 

Item 9.    Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.

Item 9A.Controls and Procedures
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Christopher Martin,Anthony J. Labozzetta, the Company’s Principal Executive Officer, and Thomas M. Lyons, the Company’s Principal AccountingFinancial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness 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) as of December 31, 2017.2023. Based upon their evaluation, they each found that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of that date.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s internal control system is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.
The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of assets; provide reasonable assurances that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles,GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the directors of the Company; and provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on its financial statements.
All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017.2023. In making this assessment, we used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013).
Based on the assessment management believes that, as of December 31, 2017,2023, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.
140


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm that audited the consolidated financial statements has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017.2023. This report appears on page 5574 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Changes in Internal ControlControl Over Financial Reporting
During the last quarter of the year under report, there was no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.


Item 9B.Other Information
Item 9B.    Other Information
(a) During the year ended December 31, 2023, none of the Company’s directors or executive officers adopted or terminated any contract, instruction or written plan for the purchase or sale of Company securities that was intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 10b5-1(c) or any "non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement," as that term is used in SEC regulations.

Item 9C.    Disclosure Regarding Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
None.




PART III


Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Item 10.        Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Information required by this item regarding directors, executive officers and corporate governance is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 26, 2018.25, 2024.


Item 11.Executive Compensation
Item 11.    Executive Compensation
The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 26, 2018.25, 2024. 

Item 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
Item 12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 26, 2018.25, 2024.
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
Set forth below is information as of December 31, 20172023 regarding equity compensation plans categorized by those plans that have been approved by the Company's stockholders. There are no plans that have not been approved by the Company's stockholders.
Plan
Number of
Securities to be
Issued Upon
Exercise of
Outstanding
Options and
Rights(1)
 
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price(2)
 
Number of
Securities
Remaining
Available For
Issuance Under
Plan (3)
Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders507,656
 $16.84
 1,820,026
Total507,656
 $16.84
 1,820,026
Plan
Number of
Securities to be
Issued Upon
Exercise of
Outstanding
Options and
Rights(1)
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price(2)
Number of
Securities
Remaining
Available For
Issuance Under
Plan (3)
Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders548,925 $19.37 749,860 
Total548,925 $19.37 749,860 
________________________
(1)Consists of outstanding stock options to purchase 507,656 shares of common stock granted under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans.
(2)The weighted average exercise price reflects an exercise price of $12.54 for 14,000 stock options granted in 2008; an exercise price of $10.40 for 33,336 stock options granted in 2009; an exercise price of $10.34 for 12,114 stock options granted in 2010; an exercise price of $14.50 for 64,622 stock options granted in 2011; an exercise price of $14.88 for 47,542 stock options and an exercise price of $14.68 for 10,000 stock options granted in 2012; an exercise price of $15.23 for 60,126 stock options granted in 2013; an exercise price of $16.38 for 80,760 stock options granted in 2014; and an exercise price of $18.34 for 65,972 stock options granted in 2015; an exercise price of $18.70 for 76,327 stock options granted in 2016; an exercise price of $26.31 for 42,857 stock options granted in 2017 under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans.
(3)Represents the number of available shares that may be granted as stock options and other stock awards under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans.

1.Consists of outstanding stock options to purchase 548,925 shares of common stock granted under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans.
141
Item 13.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence


2.The weighted average exercise price reflects: an exercise price of $16.38 for 80,760 stock options granted in 2014; an exercise price of $18.34 for 65,972 stock options granted in 2015; an exercise price of $18.70 for 76,327 stock options granted in 2016; an exercise price of $26.31 for 42,857 stock options granted in 2017; an exercise price of $25.58 for 43,123 stock options granted in 2018; an exercise price of $27.25 for 41,685 stock options granted in 2019; an exercise price of $20.62 for 107,240 stock options granted in 2020; an exercise price of $20.66 for 56,605 stock options granted in 2021; and an exercise price of $23.70 for 34,353 stock options granted in 2022 under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans. There were no new grants in 2023.
3.Represents the number of available shares that may be granted as stock options and other stock awards under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans.

Item 13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 26, 2018.25, 2024.
Item 14.Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Item 14.    Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement to be filed for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 26, 2018.25, 2024.











142








PART IV


Item 15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
Item 15.    Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
The exhibits and financial statement schedules filed as a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are as follows:
(a)(1) Financial Statements

 
(a)(2) Financial Statement Schedules
No financial statement schedules are filed because the required information is not applicable or is included in the consolidated financial statements or related notes.
(a)(3) Exhibits

2.1
2.2
3.1
3.2
4.1
10.14.2
4.3
10.2
4.4
10.1
143


10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
10.3
10.9
10.410.10
10.510.11


10.610.12
10.710.13
10.810.14
10.910.15
10.1010.16
10.1110.17
10.1210.18
144


10.1310.19
10.20
21
10.21
21
23
31.1
31.2
32
101The following materials from the Company’s Annual Report to Stockholders on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017,2023, formatted in XBRL (ExtensibleiXBRL (Inline Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Operations, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder’s Equity, (v) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

101.INS 
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 Labels Linkbase Document
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted in iXBRL and contained in exhibit 101).




Item 16.Form 10-K Summary
Item 16.    Form 10-K Summary
Not applicable.






145





SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.
PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
Date:February 28, 2024By:/s/    Anthony J. Labozzetta
Date:March 1, 2018By:
/s/    CHRISTOPHER MARTIN
Anthony J. Labozzetta
Christopher Martin
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
By:/s/    Anthony J. LabozzettaBy:/s/    Thomas M. Lyons
By:
/s/    CHRISTOPHER MARTIN
By:
/s/    THOMAS M. LYONS
Christopher Martin,Anthony J. Labozzetta,
Chairman, President and
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
Thomas M. Lyons,
Senior Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
Date:February 28, 2024Date:February 28, 2024
Date:
/s/    Christopher MartinMarch 1, 2018By:Date:March 1, 2018/s/    Adriano M. Duarte
Christopher Martin
Executive Chairman
By:
/s/    FRANK S. MUZIO
Frank S. Muzio,Adriano M. Duarte
SeniorExecutive Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)
February 28, 2024Date:February 28, 2024
By:/s/    James P. DuniganBy:Date:March 1, 2018/s/    Frank L. Fekete
By:
/s/    ROBERT ADAMO
By:
/s/    THOMAS W. BERRY
Robert Adamo,James P. Dunigan,
Director
Thomas W. Berry,
Director
Date:March 1, 2018Date:March 1, 2018
By:
/s/    LAURA L. BROOKS
By:
/s/    FRANK L. FEKETE
Laura L. Brooks,
Director
Frank L. Fekete,
Director
Date:February 28, 2024Date:February 28, 2024
Date:
By:/s/    Ursuline F. FoleyMarch 1, 2018By:Date:March 1, 2018/s/    Terence Gallagher
By:
/s/    TERENCE GALLAGHERUrsuline F. Foley,
Director
By:
/s/    MATTHEW K. HARDING
Terence Gallagher,
Director
Date:February 28, 2024Date:February 28, 2024
By:/s/    Matthew K. HardingBy:/s/    Edward J. Leppert
Matthew K. Harding,
Director
Edward J. Leppert,
Director
Date:February 28, 2024March 1, 2018Date:Date:March 1, 2018February 28, 2024
By:/s/    Nadine LeslieBy:/s/    Robert McNerney
By:Nadine Leslie,
Director
/s/    CARLOS HERNANDEZBy:Robert McNerney,
Director
Date:February 28, 2024Carlos Hernandez,
Director
Date:Edward O’Donnell,
DirectorFebruary 28, 2024
Date:By:/s/    John PuglieseMarch 1, 2018Date:March 1, 2018
John Pugliese,
Director
By:/s/    JOHN PUGLIESE
Date:February 28, 2024John Pugliese,
Director
Date:March 1, 2018


115
146