Table of Contents

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q 

(Mark One)ma

 

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarterly Period Ended March 31,June 30, 2023

OR

 

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from               to               

Commission File Number:  001-40751000-11486

cnoblogo.jpg

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter) 

New Jersey

52-1273725

(State or Other Jurisdiction of

Incorporation or Organization)

(IRS Employer

Identification No.)

301 Sylvan Avenue

Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632

(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)

201-816-8900

(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class

Trading symbol

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common stock

CNOB

NASDAQ

Depositary Shares (each representing a 1/40th interest in a share of 5.25% Series A Non-Cumulative, perpetual preferred stock)

CNOBP

NASDAQ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files). Yes    ☒    No   ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or emerging growth company. See definition 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 filer   ☒

Accelerated 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 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act.  ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). 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 the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Common Stock, no par value:

39,179,05138,938,113 shares

(Title of Class)

(Outstanding as of May 5,August 4, 2023)

 

 

    

 
 

Table of Contents

 

  

Page

   

PART I  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 
   

Item 1.

Financial Statements

3

 

Consolidated Statements of Condition as of March 31,June 30, 2023 (unaudited) and December 31, 2022

3

 

Consolidated Statements of Income for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 (unaudited)

4

 

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 (unaudited)

5

 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 (unaudited)

6

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 (unaudited)

78

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

910

   

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

4041

   

Item 3.

Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures about Market Risks

5355

   

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

5456

   

PART II  OTHER INFORMATION

 
   

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

5557

   

Item 1a.

Risk Factors

5557

   

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

5557

   

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

5658

   

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

5658

   

Item 5.

Other Information

5658

   

Item 6.

Exhibits

5759

  

SIGNATURES

5860

  

2

 

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONDITION

(unaudited)

 

(in thousands, except for share data)

March 31,

 

December 31,

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

2023

 

2022

 

2023

 

2022

 
  

ASSETS

        

Cash and due from banks

$58,063 $61,629 $56,286 $61,629 

Interest-bearing deposits with banks

 504,353  206,686  263,638  206,686 

Cash and cash equivalents

 562,416  268,315  319,924  268,315 
  

Investment securities

 629,001  634,884  612,819  634,884 

Equity securities

 18,025  15,811  17,950  15,811 
  

Loans held-for-sale

 11,197  13,772  1,089  13,772 
  

Loans receivable

 8,132,119  8,099,689  8,148,540  8,099,689 

Less: Allowance for credit losses - loans

 87,002  90,513  89,205  90,513 

Net loans receivable

 8,045,117  8,009,176  8,059,335  8,009,176 
  

Investment in restricted stock, at cost

 46,379  46,604  46,688  46,604 

Bank premises and equipment, net

 29,603  27,800  29,093  27,800 

Accrued interest receivable

 46,301  46,062  46,237  46,062 

Bank owned life insurance

 232,859  231,328  234,412  231,328 

Right of use operating lease assets

 9,541  10,179  8,874  10,179 

Other real estate owned

 -  264  -  264 

Goodwill

 208,372  208,372  208,372  208,372 

Core deposit intangibles

 6,940  7,312  6,569  7,312 

Other assets

 114,716  125,069  132,601  125,069 

Total assets

$9,960,467 $9,644,948 $9,723,963 $9,644,948 

LIABILITIES

        

Deposits:

  

Noninterest-bearing

$1,345,265 $1,501,614 $1,356,293 $1,501,614 

Interest-bearing

 6,407,911  5,855,008  6,182,004  5,855,008 

Total deposits

 7,753,176  7,356,622  7,538,297  7,356,622 

Borrowings

 852,611  857,622  827,601  857,622 

Subordinated debentures, net

 79,060  153,255  79,187  153,255 

Operating lease liabilities

 10,717  11,397  10,007  11,397 

Other liabilities

 73,933  87,301  69,474  87,301 

Total liabilities

 8,769,497  8,466,197  8,524,566  8,466,197 
  

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

            
  

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

        

Preferred Stock, no par value; $1,000 per share liquidation preference; Authorized 5,000,000 shares; issued 115,000 shares as of March 31, 2023 and as of December 31, 2022; outstanding 115,000 shares as of March 31, 2023 and as of December 31, 2022

 110,927  110,927 

Common stock, no par value: Authorized 100,000,000 shares; issued 42,083,240 shares as of March 31, 2023 and 41,942,149 shares as of December 31, 2022; outstanding 39,179,051 shares as of March 31, 2023 and 39,243,123 as of December 31, 2022

 586,946  586,946 

Preferred Stock, no par value; $1,000 per share liquidation preference; Authorized 5,000,000 shares; issued 115,000 shares as of June 30, 2023 and as of December 31, 2022; outstanding 115,000 shares as of June 30, 2023 and as of December 31, 2022

 110,927  110,927 

Common stock, no par value: Authorized 100,000,000 shares; issued 42,120,841 shares as of June 30, 2023 and 41,942,149 shares as of December 31, 2022; outstanding 38,936,652 shares as of June 30, 2023 and 39,243,123 as of December 31, 2022

 586,946  586,946 

Additional paid-in capital

 31,350  30,126  30,740  30,126 

Retained earnings

 553,261  535,915  566,498  535,915 

Treasury stock, at cost 2,904,189 common shares as of March 31, 2023 and 2,699,026 as of December 31, 2022

 (57,652) (52,799)

Treasury stock, at cost 3,184,189 common shares as of June 30, 2023 and 2,699,026 as of December 31, 2022

 (61,877) (52,799)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 (33,862) (32,364) (33,837) (32,364)

Total stockholders’ equity

 1,190,970  1,178,751  1,199,397  1,178,751 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$9,960,467 $9,644,948 $9,723,963 $9,644,948 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

3

 

 

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(unaudited)

 

 

Three Months Ended

  

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

  

June 30,

  

June 30,

 
 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

(dollars in thousands, except for per share data)

            

Interest income

            

Interest and fees on loans

 $106,903  $76,025  $111,048  $81,285  $217,951  $157,310 

Interest and dividends on investment securities:

  

Taxable

 4,229  1,873  4,029  2,551  8,258  4,424 

Tax-exempt

 1,092  709  1,247  916  2,339  1,625 

Dividends

 898  214  945  291  1,843  505 

Interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments

  2,975   120   4,056   313   7,031   433 

Total interest income

  116,097   78,941   121,325   85,356   237,422   164,297 

Interest expense

            

Deposits

 40,087  5,010  50,714  5,709  90,801  10,719 

Borrowings

  8,926   3,573   6,768   4,056   15,694   7,629 

Total interest expense

  49,013   8,583   57,482   9,765   106,495   18,348 

Net interest income

 67,084  70,358  63,843  75,591  130,927  145,949 

Provision for credit losses

  1,000   1,450   3,000   3,000   4,000   4,450 

Net interest income after provision for credit losses

  66,084   68,908   60,843   72,591   126,927   141,499 

Noninterest income

            

Deposit, loan and other income

 1,403  1,743  1,545  1,866  2,948  3,609 

Income on bank owned life insurance

 1,531  1,206  1,553  1,342  3,084  2,548 

Net gains on sale of loans held-for-sale

 49  701  550  556  599  1,257 

Net losses on equity securities

 (191) (596)  (210)  (405)  (401)  (1,001)

Total noninterest income

  2,792   3,054   3,438   3,359   6,230   6,413 

Noninterest expenses

            

Salaries and employee benefits

 22,261  18,783  21,751  19,662  44,013  38,445 

Occupancy and equipment

 2,761  1,929  2,677  2,733  5,438  4,662 

FDIC insurance

 950  606  1,715  725  2,665  1,331 

Professional and consulting

 2,194  1,792  1,932  2,124  4,126  3,916 

Marketing and advertising

 532  351  556  426  1,088  777 

Information technology and communications

 3,061  2,866  3,644  2,801  6,705  5,667 

Amortization of core deposit intangibles

 372  433  371  434  743  867 

Other components of net periodic pension expense

 (25) (143) (25) (143) (51) (286)

Increase in value of acquisition price

 -  683  -  833  -  1,516 

Other expenses

  2,764   1,930   2,829   2,108   5,593   4,038 

Total noninterest expenses

  34,870   29,230   35,450   31,703   70,320   60,933 

Income before income tax expense

 34,006  42,732  28,831  44,247  62,837  86,979 

Income tax expense

  9,077   11,351   7,437   11,889   16,514   23,240 

Net income

 24,929  31,381  21,394  32,358  46,323  63,739 

Preferred dividends

  1,509   1,509   1,509   1,509   3,018   3,018 

Net income available to common stockholders

 $23,420  $29,872  $19,885  $30,849  $43,305  $60,721 

Earnings per common share

            

Basic

 $0.60  $0.76  $0.51  $0.78  $1.11  $1.54 

Diluted

 0.59  0.75  0.51  0.78  1.10  1.53 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

4

 

 

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(unaudited)

 

 

Three Months Ended

  

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

  

June 30,

  

June 30,

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Net income

 $24,929  $31,381  $21,394  $32,358  $46,323  $63,739 

Other comprehensive income (loss):

  
  

Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities arising during the period

 6,528  (30,625)

Unrealized holding losses on available-for-sale securities arising during the period

 (10,303) (23,891) (3,775) (54,516)

Tax effect

  (2,045)  8,139   2,955   7,616   910   15,755 

Net of tax

 4,483  (22,486) (7,348) (16,275) (2,865) (38,761)
  

Reclassification adjustment for realized gains included in net income

 -  - 

Tax effect

  -   - 

Net of tax

 -  - 
 

Unrealized (losses) gains on cash flow hedges

 (4,361) 19,000 

Unrealized gains on cash flow hedges

 14,425  8,284  10,064  27,284 

Tax effect

  1,312   (5,341)  (4,340)  (2,946)  (3,028)  (8,287)

Net of tax

 (3,049) 13,659  10,085  5,338  7,036  18,997 
  

Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses on cash flow hedges

 (4,267) 525  (3,953) 129  (8,220) 654 

Tax effect

  1,284   (147)  1,189   (37)  2,473   (184)

Net of tax

 (2,983) 378  (2,764) 92  (5,747) 470 
  

Unrealized gains on pension plan

 -  2,187  -  -  -  2,187 

Tax effect

  -   (615)  -   -   -   (615)

Net of tax

 -  1,572  -  -  -  1,572 
  

Reclassification adjustment for realized losses on pension plan included in net income

 74  16  74  16  148  32 

Tax effect

  (23)  (4)  (22)  (5)  (45)  (9)

Net of tax

  51   12  52  11  103  23 
  

Total other comprehensive loss

  (1,498)  (6,865)

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

  25   (10,834)  (1,473)  (17,699)
  

Total comprehensive income

 $23,431  $24,516  $21,419  $21,524  $44,850  $46,040 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

5

 

 

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY

(unaudited)

 

  

Three Months Ended March 31, 2023

 
                      

Accumulated

     
          

Additional

          

Other

  

Total

 
  

Preferred

  

Common

  

Paid-In

  

Retained

  

Treasury

  

Comprehensive

  

Stockholders’

 

(in thousands, except share data)

 

Stock

  

Stock

  

Capital

  

Earnings

  

Stock

  

(Loss) Income

  

Equity

 

Balance as of December 31, 2022

 $110,927  $586,946  $30,126  $535,915  $(52,799) $(32,364) $1,178,751 

Net income

  -   -   -   24,929   -   -   24,929 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

  -   -   -   -   -   (1,498)  (1,498)

Cash dividends declared on preferred stock ($0.328125 per depositary share)

  -   -   -   (1,509)  -   -   (1,509)

Cash dividends declared on common stock ($0.17 per share)

  -   -   -   (6,074)  -   -   (6,074)

Exercise of stock options (6,473 shares)

  -   -   81   -   -   -   81 

Restricted stock grants, net of forfeitures (49,202 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Stock grants (995 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Net shares issued in satisfaction of deferred stock units earned (32,068 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Net shares issued in satisfaction performance units earned (52,353 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Stock-based compensation expense

  -   -   1,143   -   -   -   1,143 

Repurchase of treasury stock (205,163 shares)

  -   -   -   -   (4,853)  -   (4,853)
                             

Balance as of March 31, 2023

 $110,927  $586,946  $31,350  $553,261  $(57,652) $(33,862) $1,190,970 
  

Three Months Ended June 30, 2023

 
                      

Accumulated

     
          

Additional

          

Other

  

Total

 
  

Preferred

  

Common

  

Paid-In

  

Retained

  

Treasury

  

Comprehensive

  

Stockholders’

 

(in thousands, except share data)

 

Stock

  

Stock

  

Capital

  

Earnings

  

Stock

  

(Loss) Income

  

Equity

 

Balance as of March 31, 2023

 $110,927  $586,946  $31,350  $553,261  $(57,652) $(33,862) $1,190,970 

Net income

  -   -   -   21,394   -   -   21,394 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

  -   -   -   -   -   25   25 

Cash dividends paid on preferred stock ($0.328125 per depositary share)

  -   -   -   (1,509)  -   -   (1,509)

Cash dividends paid on common stock ($0.17 per share)

  -   -   -   (6,648)  -   -   (6,648)

Exercise of stock options (269 shares)

  -   -   4   -   -   -   4 

Restricted stock grants, net of forfeitures (37,332 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Share redemption for tax withholdings on performance units and deferred stock units earned

  -   -   (1,836)  -   -   -   (1,836)

Repurchase of treasury stock (270,000 shares)

  -   -   -   -   (4,225)  -   (4,225)

Stock-based compensation expense

  -   -   1,222   -   -   -   1,222 
                             

Balance as of June 30, 2023

 $110,927  $586,946  $30,740  $566,498  $(61,877) $(33,837) $1,199,397 

  

  

Three Months Ended March 31, 2022

 
                      

Accumulated

     
          

Additional

          

Other

  

Total

 
  

Preferred

  

Common

  

Paid-In

  

Retained

  

Treasury

  

Comprehensive

  

Stockholders’

 

(in thousands, except share data)

 

Stock

  

Stock

  

Capital

  

Earnings

  

Stock

  

(Loss) Income

  

Equity

 

Balance as of December 31, 2021

 $110,927  $586,946  $27,246  $440,169  $(39,672) $(1,404) $1,124,212 

Net income

  -   -   -   31,381   -   -   31,381 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

  -   -   -   -   -   (6,865)  (6,865)

Cash dividends declared on common stock ($0.13 per share)

  -   -   -   (5,152)  -   -   (5,152)

Cash dividends declared on preferred stock ($0.328125 per depositary share)

           (1,509)        (1,509)

Exercise of stock options (8,774 shares)

  -   -   91   -   -   -   91 

Restricted stock grants, net of forfeitures (32,454 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Stock grants (153 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Net shares issued in satisfaction of deferred stock units earned (31,383 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Net shares issued in satisfaction of performance units earned (22,350 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Repurchase of treasury stock (144,793 shares)

  -   -   -   -   (4,786)  -   (4,786)

Stock-based compensation expense

  -   -   1,147   -   -   -   1,147 
                             

Balance as of March 31, 2022

 $110,927  $586,946  $28,484  $464,889  $(44,458) $(8,269) $1,138,519 
  

Three Months Ended June 30, 2022

 
                      

Accumulated

     
          

Additional

          

Other

  

Total

 
  

Preferred

  

Common

  

Paid-In

  

Retained

  

Treasury

  

Comprehensive

  

Stockholders’

 

(in thousands, except share data)

 

Stock

  

Stock

  

Capital

  

Earnings

  

Stock

  

(Loss) Income

  

Equity

 

Balance as of March 31, 2022

 $110,927  $586,946  $28,484  $464,889  $(44,458) $(8,269) $1,138,519 

Net income

  -   -   -   32,358   -   -   32,358 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

  -   -   -   -   -   (10,834)  (10,834)

Cash dividends declared on preferred stock ($0.328125 per depositary share)

           (1,509)        (1,509)

Cash dividends declared on common stock ($0.155 per share)

  -   -   -   (6,098)  -   -   (6,098)

Exercise of stock options (6,312 shares)

  -   -   33   -   -   -   33 

Restricted stock grants, net of forfeitures (20,715 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Share redemption for tax withholdings on performance units and deferred stock units earned

  -   -   (2,133)  -   -   -   (2,133)

Repurchase of treasury stock (302,315 shares)

  -   -   -   -   (8,341)  -   (8,341)

Stock-based compensation expense

  -   -   1,152   -   -   -   1,152 
                             

Balance as of June 30, 2022

 $110,927  $586,946  $27,536  $489,640  $(52,799) $(19,103) $1,143,147 

6

(continued)

  

Six Months Ended June 30, 2023

 
                      

Accumulated

     
          

Additional

          

Other

  

Total

 
  

Preferred

  

Common

  

Paid-In

  

Retained

  

Treasury

  

Comprehensive

  

Stockholders’

 

(in thousands, except share data)

 

Stock

  

Stock

  

Capital

  

Earnings

  

Stock

  

(Loss) Income

  

Equity

 

Balance as of December 31, 2022

 $110,927  $586,946  $30,126  $535,915  $(52,799) $(32,364) $1,178,751 

Net income

  -   -   -   46,323   -   -   46,323 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

  -   -   -   -   -   (1,473)  (1,473)

Cash dividends paid on preferred stock ($0.65625 per depositary share)

  -   -   -   (3,018)  -   -   (3,018)

Cash dividends paid on common stock ($0.34 per share)

  -   -   -   (12,722)  -   -   (12,722)

Exercise of stock options (6,742 shares)

  -   -   85   -   -   -   85 

Restricted stock grants, net of forfeitures (86,534 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Stock grants (995 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Net shares issued in satisfaction of deferred stock units earned (32,068 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Net shares issued in satisfaction performance units earned (52,353 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Share redemption for tax withholdings on performance units and deferred stock units earned

  -   -   (1,836)  -   -   -   (1,836)

Repurchase of treasury stock (485,163 shares)

  -   -   -   -   (9,078)  -   (9,078)

Stock-based compensation expense

  -   -   2,365   -   -   -   2,365 
                             

Balance as of June 30, 2023

 $110,927  $586,946  $30,740  $566,498  $(61,877) $(33,837) $1,199,397 

  

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022

 
                      

Accumulated

     
          

Additional

          

Other

  

Total

 
  

Preferred

  

Common

  

Paid-In

  

Retained

  

Treasury

  

Comprehensive

  

Stockholders’

 

(in thousands, except share data)

 

Stock

  

Stock

  

Capital

  

Earnings

  

Stock

  

(Loss) Income

  

Equity

 

Balance as of December 31, 2021

 $110,927  $586,946  $27,246  $440,169  $(39,672) $(1,404) $1,124,212 

Net income

  -   -   -   63,739   -   -   63,739 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

  -   -   -   -   -   (17,699)  (17,699)

Cash dividends declared on preferred stock ($0.65625 per depositary share)

           (3,018)        (3,018)

Cash dividends declared on common stock ($0.285 per share)

  -   -   -   (11,250)  -   -   (11,250)

Exercise of stock options (15,086 shares)

  -   -   124   -   -   -   124 

Restricted stock grants, net of forfeitures (53,169 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Stock grants (153 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Net shares issued in satisfaction of restricted stock units earned (31,383 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Net shares issued in satisfaction of performance units earned (22,350 shares)

  -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Share redemption for tax withholdings on performance units and deferred stock units earned

  -   -   (2,133)  -   -   -   (2,133)

Repurchase of treasury stock (447,108 shares)

  -   -   -   -   (13,127)  -   (13,127)

Stock-based compensation expense

  -   -   2,299   -   -   -   2,299 
                             

Balance as of June 30, 2022

 $110,927  $586,946  $27,536  $489,640  $(52,799) $(19,103) $1,143,147 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

67

 

 

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(unaudited)

 

 

Three Months Ended

  

Six Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

  

June 30,

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Cash flows from operating activities

        

Net income

 $24,929  $31,381  $46,323  $63,739 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

  

Depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment

 1,076  983  2,211  1,942 

Provision for credit losses

 1,000  1,450  4,000  4,450 

Amortization of intangibles

 372  433  743  867 

Net accretion of loans

 (743) (874) (1,248) (1,689)

Accretion on bank premises

 (12) (12) (24) (24)

Accretion on deposits

 (101) (321) (177) (518)

Amortization on borrowings, net

 5  16  11  14 

Stock-based compensation

 1,143  1,147  2,365  2,299 

Losses on equity securities, net

 191  596  401  1,001 

Gains on sale of loans held-for-sale, net

 (49) (701) (599) (1,257)

Loans originated for resale

 (854) (8,872) (10,084) (14,795)

Proceeds from sale of loans held-for-sale

 1,202 9,472  18,382 16,302 

Loss on sale of other real estate owned

 22 - 

Gain on sale of other real estate owned

 22 - 

Increase in cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance

 (1,531) (1,206) (3,084) (2,548)

Amortization of premium and accretion of discounts on securities available-for-sale

 268  872  565  1,481 

Amortization of subordinated debentures issuance costs

 805  76  932  152 

(Increase) decrease in accrued interest receivable

 (239) 71 

Increase in accrued interest receivable

 (175) (463)

Net change in operating leases

 (42) (27) (85) (93)

Increase in other assets

 (13,321) (10,585) (5,378) (4,024)

Increase in other liabilities

  2,253   21,945 

(Decrease) increase in other liabilities

  (17,463)  4,131 

Net cash provided by operating activities

  16,374   45,844   37,638   70,967 
  

Cash flows from investing activities

        

Investment securities available-for-sale:

  

Purchases

 (4,763) (52,970) (14,678) (296,254)

Maturities, calls and principal repayments

 16,906  43,950  32,403  98,824 

Purchase of equity securities

 (2,405) -  (2,540) (3,200)

Net redemptions of restricted investment in bank stocks

 225  2,572  (84) (19,461)

Payments on loans held-for-sale

 17  -  25  2,390 

Net increase in loans

 (33,911) (153,048) (48,168) (450,723)

Purchase of bank owned life insurance

 - (30,000)

Purchases of premises and equipment

 (2,867) (718) (3,480) (1,276)

Proceeds from sale of OREO

 242 -  242 - 

Net cash used in investing activities

  (26,556)  (160,214)  (36,280)  (699,700)
  

Cash flows from financing activities

        

Net increase in deposits

 396,654  227,773  181,852  285,164 

Advances of Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) borrowings

 750,000 150,000  1,377,000 1,450,181 

Repayments of FHLB borrowings

 (755,016) (206,039)

Repayment of subordinated debt

 (75,000) - 

Repayments of subordinated debt

 (75,000) - 

Repayments of borrowings

 (1,407,032) (1,043,424)

Cash dividends on preferred stock

 (1,509) (1,509) (3,018) (3,018)

Cash dividends paid on common stock

 (6,074) (5,152) (12,722) (13,127)

Repurchase of treasury stock

 (4,853) (4,786) (9,078) (11,250)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 81  91  85  124 

Share redemption for tax withholdings on performance units and deferred stock units earned

 (1,836) (2,133)

Net cash provided by financing activities

  304,283   160,378   50,251   662,517 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

 294,101  46,008  51,609  33,784 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

  268,315   265,536   268,315   265,536 
  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 $562,416  $311,544  $319,924  $299,320 

 

78

 

(continued)

 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information

        

Cash payments for:

  

Interest paid on deposits and borrowings

 $46,590  $8,794  $104,572  $18,117 

Income taxes

 1,257  300  18,655  20,832 

 

Supplemental disclosures of noncash activities

        

Investing:

  

Transfer of loans to other real estate owned

 $-  $316 

Transfer of loans held-for-investment to other real estate owned

 $-  $316 

Transfer of loans from held-for-sale to held-for-investment

 13,456  -  16,156  - 

Transfer of loans from held-for-investment to held-for-sale

 11,197  2,391  11,197  5,572 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

89

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 1a.  Nature of Operations, Principles of Consolidation and Risk and Uncertainties

 

Nature of Operations

 

ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc. (the “Parent Corporation”) is incorporated under the laws of the State of New Jersey and is a registered bank holding company under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “BHCA”). The Parent Corporation’s business currently consists of the operation of its wholly-owned subsidiary, ConnectOne Bank (the “Bank” and, collectively with the Parent Corporation and the Parent Corporation’s subsidiaries, the “Company”). The Bank’s direct and indirect subsidiaries include Union Investment Co. (a New Jersey investment company), Twin Bridge Investment Co. (a Delaware investment company), ConnectOne Preferred Funding Corp. (a New Jersey real estate investment trust), Center Financial Group, LLC (a New Jersey financial services company), Center Advertising, Inc. (a New Jersey advertising company), Morris Property Company, LLC, (a New Jersey limited liability company), Volosin Holdings, LLC, (a New Jersey limited liability company), NJCB Spec-1, LLC (a New Jersey limited liability company), Port Jervis Holdings, LLC (a New Jersey limited liability company), BONJ Special Properties, LLC (a New Jersey limited liability company) and BoeFly, Inc. (a New Jersey financial technology company).

 

The Bank is a community-based, full-service New Jersey-chartered commercial bank that was founded in 2005. The Bank operates from its headquarters located at 301 Sylvan Avenue in the Borough of Englewood Cliffs, Bergen County, New Jersey and through its twenty-four other banking offices. Substantially all loans are secured with various types of collateral, including business assets, consumer assets and commercial/residential real estate. Each borrower’s ability to repay its loans is dependent on the conversion of assets, cash flows generated from the borrowers’ business, real estate rental and consumer wages.

Basis of Presentation and Principals of Consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The consolidated financial statements of the Parent Corporation are prepared on an accrual basis and include the accounts of the Parent Corporation and the Company. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated from the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Segments

 

FASB ASC 28, “Segment Reporting,” requires companies to report certain information about operating segments. The Company is managed as one segment: a community bank. All decisions including but not limited to loan growth, deposit funding, interest rate risk, credit risk and pricing are determined after assessing the effect on the totality of the organization. For example, loan growth is dependent on the ability of the organization to fund this growth through deposits or other borrowings. As a result, the Company is managed as one operating segment.

 

Use of Estimates

 

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management has made estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the dates of the consolidated statements of condition and that affect the results of operations for the periods presented. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.

 

910

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

Risks and Uncertainties

 

The United States economy is currently experiencing a level of price inflation not experienced since the late 1970’s and early 1980’s. It is therefore difficult to predict the response of consumers and businesses to this level of inflation, and its impact on the economy. In addition, in order to attempt to control and reduce the level of inflation, the Federal Reserve has embarked on a series of interest rate increases along with quantitative tightening to further constrict economic conditions. It is unclear whether the Federal Reserve’s efforts will be successful, and what impact they may have on the United States’ economy. It is possible that the combined effects of inflation and increases in market interest rates could cause the economy of the United States to enter a recession, which could negatively affect the businesses of our borrowers and their ability to repay their loans or need credit, which could negatively affect our results of operations.  

 

1011

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 1b. Authoritative Accounting Guidance

 

Adoption of New Accounting Standards in 2023

 

In March 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2022-02, “Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326), Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures” (“ASU 2022-02”). ASU 2022-02 eliminates the accounting guidance for troubled debt restructurings (“TDRs”) in ASC 310-40, “Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors” for entities that have adopted the current expected credit loss (“CECL”) model introduced by ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” (ASU 2016-13”). ASU 2022-02 also requires that public business entities disclose current-period gross charge-offs by year of origination for financing receivables and net investments in leases within the scope of Subtopic 326-20, “Financial Instruments—Credit Losses—Measured at Amortized Cost”. ASU 2022-02 is effective for the Company for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. We adopted ASU 2022-02 on January 1, 2023 and it did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

Newly Issued, But Not Yet Effective Accounting Standards

 

In June 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2022-03, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to Contractual Sale Restrictions” (“ASU 2022-03”). ASU 2022-03 clarifies that a contractual restriction on the sale of an equity security is not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, is not considered in measuring fair value.  ASU 2022-03 is effective for the Company for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. The Company is evaluating the effect that ASU 2022-03 will have on its consolidated financial statements.

 

1112

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

 

Note 2.  Earnings per Common Share

 

Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification (“FASB ASC”) No. 260-10-45 addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and, therefore, need to be included in the earnings allocation in computing earnings per share (“EPS”).  The restricted stock awards granted by the Company contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends and therefore are considered participating securities. The two-class method for calculating basic EPS excludes dividends paid to participating securities and any undistributed earnings attributable to participating securities.

 

Earnings per common share have been computed based on the following:

 

 

Three Months Ended

  

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

  

June 30,

  

June 30,

 

(dollars in thousands, except for per share data)

 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Net income available to common stockholders

 $23,420  $29,872  $19,885  $30,849  $43,305  $60,721 

Earnings allocated to participating securities

  (44)  (80)  (53)  (70)  (98)  (150)

Income attributable to common stock

 $23,376  $29,792  $19,832  $30,779  $43,207  $60,571 
  

Weighted average common shares outstanding, including participating securities

 39,178  39,560  39,078  39,379  39,127  39,469 

Weighted average participating securities

  (74)  (107)  (104)  (89)  (88)  (98)

Weighted average common shares outstanding

 39,104  39,453  38,974  39,290  39,039  39,371 

Incremental shares from assumed conversions of options, performance units and restricted shares

  197   274   43   176   135   225 

Weighted average common and equivalent shares outstanding

  39,301   39,727   39,017   39,466   39,174   39,596 
  

Earnings per common share:

  

Basic

 $0.60  $0.76  $0.51  $0.78  $1.11  $1.54 

Diluted

 0.59  0.75  0.51  0.78  1.10  1.53 

 

There were no antidilutive share equivalents forduring the quarterssix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and March 31,June 30, 2022.

 

1213

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 3.  Investment Securities

 

TheAll of the Company’s investment securities are classified as available-for-sale as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022. Investment securities available-for-sale are reported at fair value with unrealized gains or losses included in stockholders’ equity, net of tax. Accordingly, the carrying value of such securities reflects their fair value as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022. Fair value is based upon either quoted market prices, or in certain cases where there is limited activity in the market for a particular instrument, assumptions are made to determine their fair value. See Note 6 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.

 

The following tables present information related to the Company’s portfolio of securities available-for-sale as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

 

         

Allowance

          

Allowance

 
         

for

          

for

 
   

Gross

 

Gross

   

Investment

    

Gross

 

Gross

   

Investment

 
 

Amortized

 

Unrealized

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Credit

  

Amortized

 

Unrealized

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Credit

 
 

Cost

  

Gains

  

Losses

  

Value

  

Losses

  

Cost

  

Gains

  

Losses

  

Value

  

Losses

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

March 31, 2023

 

June 30, 2023

 

Investment securities available-for-sale:

  

Federal agency obligations

 $53,301  $1  $(9,787) $43,515  $-  $54,102  $-  $(10,949) $43,153  $- 

Residential mortgage pass-through securities

 469,925  322  (50,580) 419,667  -  465,856  80  (56,810) 409,126  - 

Commercial mortgage pass-through securities

 25,424  -  (3,464) 21,960  -  25,364  -  (4,154) 21,210  - 

Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions

 155,101  255  (17,060) 138,296  -  152,614  109  (18,884) 133,839  - 

Corporate bonds and notes

 4,000  -  (23) 3,977  -  4,000  -  (41) 3,959  - 

Asset-backed securities

 1,505 - (51) 1,454 -  1,422 - (41) 1,381 - 

Other securities

  132   -   -   132   -   151   -   -   151   - 

Total securities available-for-sale

 $709,388  $578  $(80,965) $629,001  $-  $703,509  $189  $(90,879) $612,819  $- 
  

December 31, 2022

  

Investment securities available-for-sale:

  

Federal agency obligations

 $54,889  $-  $(10,439) $44,450  $-  $54,889  $-  $(10,439) $44,450  $- 

Residential mortgage pass-through securities

 475,263  178  (57,863) 417,578  -  475,263  178  (57,863) 417,578  - 

Commercial mortgage pass-through securities

 25,485  -  (4,381) 21,104  -  25,485  -  (4,381) 21,104  - 

Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions

 157,247  111  (14,462) 142,896  -  157,247  111  (14,462) 142,896  - 

Corporate bonds and notes

 7,000  -  (26) 6,974  -  7,000  -  (26) 6,974  - 

Asset-backed securities

 1,673 - (33) 1,640 -  1,673 - (33) 1,640 - 

Other securities

  242   -   -   242   -   242   -   -   242   - 

Total securities available-for-sale

 $721,799  $289  $(87,204) $634,884  $-  $721,799  $289  $(87,204) $634,884  $- 

 

1314

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 3.  Investment Securities (continued)

Investment securities having a carrying value of approximately $377.5$354.8 million and $157.0 million as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, were pledged to secure public deposits, borrowings, repurchase agreements, access to unutilized Federal Reserve Discount Window, Bank Term Funding ("BTF") program borrowings, and access to unutilized Federal Home Loan Bank advances and for other purposes required or permitted by law. As of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were no holdings of securities of any one issuer, other than the U.S. Government and its agencies, in an amount greater than 10% of stockholders’ equity.

 

The following table presents information for investments in securities available-for-sale as of March 31,June 30, 2023, based on scheduled maturities. Actual maturities can be expected to differ from scheduled maturities due to prepayment or early call options of the issuer. Securities not due at a single maturity date are shown separately.

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

June 30, 2023

 
 

Amortized

 

Fair

  

Amortized

 

Fair

 
 

Cost

  

Value

  

Cost

  

Value

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Investment securities available-for-sale:

  

Due in one year or less

 $2,453  $2,453  $2,000  $2,000 

Due after one year through five years

 4,079  4,057  4,388  4,339 

Due after five years through ten years

 2,626  2,620  2,574  2,558 

Due after ten years

 204,749  178,112  203,176  173,435 

Residential mortgage pass-through securities

 469,925  419,667  465,856  409,126 

Commercial mortgage pass-through securities

 25,424  21,960  25,364  21,210 

Other securities

 132  132  151  151 

Total securities available-for-sale

 $709,388  $629,001  $703,509  $612,819 

 

There were no realized gains or losses on securities forduring the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023and December June 30, 202231,2022..

 

1415

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 3.  Investment Securities (continued)

 

Impairment Analysis of Available--for-sale Debt Securities

 

The following tables indicate securities in an unrealized loss position for which an allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) has not been recorded, aggregated by investment category and by the length of continuous time individual securities have been in an unrealized loss position as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

June 30, 2023

 
 

Total

  

Less than 12 Months

  

12 Months or Longer

  

Total

  

Less than 12 Months

  

12 Months or Longer

 
 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

  

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 
 

Value

  

Losses

  

Value

  

Losses

  

Value

  

Losses

  

Value

  

Losses

  

Value

  

Losses

  

Value

  

Losses

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Investment securities available-for-sale:

  

Federal agency obligations

 $43,301  $(9,787) $2,798  $(209) $40,503  $(9,578) $43,154  $(10,949) $4,565  $(347) $38,589  $(10,602)

Residential mortgage pass-through securities

 404,073  (50,580) 153,706  (4,627) 250,367  (45,953) 395,195  (56,810) 130,196  (5,818) 264,999  (50,992)

Commercial mortgage pass-through securities

 21,960  (3,464) 6,540  (460) 15,420  (3,004) 21,210  (4,154) -  -  21,210  (4,154)

Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions

 118,428  (17,060) 26,397  (1,194) 92,031  (15,866) 116,310  (18,884) 22,408  (1,320) 93,902  (17,564)

Corporate bonds and notes

 1,977  (23) 1,977  (23) -  -  1,959  (41) 1,959  (41) -  - 

Asset-backed securities

  1,454   (51)  390   (21)  1,064   (30)  1,381   (41)  381   (17)  1,000   (24)

Total temporarily impaired securities

 $591,193  $(80,965) $191,808  $(6,534) $399,385  $(74,431) $579,209  $(90,879) $159,509  $(7,543) $419,700  $(83,336)

 

  

December 31, 2022

 
  

Total

  

Less than 12 Months

  

12 Months or Longer

 
  

Fair

  

Unrealized

  

Fair

  

Unrealized

  

Fair

  

Unrealized

 
  

Value

  

Losses

  

Value

  

Losses

  

Value

  

Losses

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Investment securities available-for-sale:

                        

Federal agency obligations

 $44,451  $(10,439) $20,517  $(1,831) $23,934  $(8,608)

Residential mortgage pass-through securities

  403,039   (57,863)  218,918   (13,869)  184,121   (43,994)

Commercial mortgage pass-through securities

  21,105   (4,381)  14,523   (2,304)  6,582   (2,077)

Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions

  133,265   (14,462)  47,446   (3,404)  85,819   (11,058)

Corporate bonds and notes

  4,973   (26)  4,973   (26)  -   - 

Asset-backed securities

  1,640   (33)  1,048   (16)  592   (17)

Total temporarily impaired securities

 $608,473  $(87,204) $307,425  $(21,450) $301,048  $(65,754)

 

1516

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 3.  Investment Securities (continued)

The Company has elected to exclude accrued interest from the amortized cost of its investment securities available-for-sale. Accrued interest receivable for investment securities available-for-sale as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, totaled $2.2$2.3 million and $2.4 million, respectively.

 

The Company evaluates securities in an unrealized loss position for impairment related to credit losses on at least a quarterly basis. Securities in unrealized loss positions are first assessed as to whether we intend to sell, or if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If one of the criteria is met, the security’s amortized cost basis is written down to fair value through current earnings. For securities that do not meet these criteria, the Company evaluates whether the decline in fair value resulted from credit losses or other factors. If this assessment indicates that a credit loss exists, we compare the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security with the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis for the security, a credit loss exists and an allowance for credit losses is recorded, limited to the amount that the fair value of the security is less than its amortized cost basis. Unrealized losses on asset backed securities and state and municipal securities have not been recognized into income because the issuers are of high credit quality and we do not intend to sell and it is likely that we will not be required to sell the securities prior to their anticipated recovery. The decline in fair value is largely due to changes in interest rates and other market conditions. The issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments on the securities. Any impairment that has not been recorded through an allowance for credit losses is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. No allowance for credit losses for available-for-sale securities was recorded as of MarchJune 31,30, 2023.

 

Federal agency obligations, residential mortgage-backed pass-through securities and commercial mortgage-backed pass-through securities are issued by U.S. Government agencies and U.S. Government sponsored enterprises. Although a government guarantee exists on these investments, these entities are not legally backed by the full faith and credit of the federal government, and the current support they receive is subject to a cap as part of the agreement entered into in 2008. Nonetheless, at this time we do not foresee any set of circumstances in which the government would not fund its commitments on these investments as the issuers are an integral part of the U.S. housing market in providing liquidity and stability. Therefore, we concluded that a zero-allowance approach for these investment securities is appropriate.

 

 

Note 4. Derivatives

 

As part of our overall asset liability management and strategy the Company uses derivative instruments, which can include interest rate swaps, collars, caps, and floors.  The notional amount does not represent amounts exchanged by the parties.  The amount exchanged is determined by reference to the notional amount and the other terms of the individual agreements. Derivative instruments are recognized on the balance sheet at their fair value and are not reported on a net basis.

 

Derivatives Designated as Hedges

 

Subsequent changes in fair value for a hedging instrument that has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship are accounted for in the following manner:

 

1) Cash flow hedges: changes in fair value are recognized as a component in other comprehensive income

2) Fair value hedges: changes in fair value are recognized concurrently in earnings

 

As long as a hedging instrument is designated and the results of the effectiveness testing support that the instrument qualifies for hedge accounting treatment, 100% of the periodic changes in fair value of the hedging instrument are accounted for as outlined above. This is the case whether or not economic mismatches exist in the hedging relationship. As a result, there is no periodic measurement or recognition of ineffectiveness. Rather, the full impact of hedge gains and losses is recognized in the period in which the hedged transactions impact earnings. The change in fair value of the hedging instrument that is included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness is presented in the same income statement line item that is used to present the earnings effect of the hedged item.

 

1617

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 4. Derivatives (continued)

 

Cash Flow Hedges

 

The Company entered into eleven pay fixed-rate interest rate swaps, with a total notional amount of $500 million, all of which were entered into in 2021 and 2022. These are designated as cash flow hedges of current, Federal Home Loan Bank advances. We are required to pay fixed rates of interest ranging from 0.63% to 3.41% and receive variable rates of interest that reset quarterly based on the daily compounding secured overnight financing rate (“SOFR”).  The eleven swaps carry expiration dates ranging from December 2025 to March 2028.2028. The swaps are determined to be fully effective during the period presented and therefore no amount of ineffectiveness has been included in net income. Therefore, the aggregate fair value of the swap is recorded in other assets (liabilities) with changes in fair value recorded in other comprehensive income (loss). The amount included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) would be reclassified to current earnings should the hedges no longer be considered effective. The Company expects the hedges to remain fully effective during the remaining term of the swaps. 

   

The Company previously entered into one forward starting interest rate cap spread transaction, with a total notional amount of $150 million, which became effective on October 1, 2022 and matures in October of 2027 and one additional interest rate cap spread transaction, with a total notional amount of $75 million, which became effective in November 2022 and matures in November of 2027. These are designated as cash flow hedges of brokered certificates of deposits, and the interest rate cap spread is indexed to a benchmark of fed funds with payment required on a monthly basis. The structure of these instruments is such that the Company entered into a total of $225 million in notional amount of sold interest rate cap agreements, in which we are required to pay the counterparty an incremental amount if the index rate exceeds a set cap rate. Simultaneously, the Company purchased a total of $225 million notional amount of interest rate cap agreements in which we receive an incremental amount if the index rate is above a set cap rate.  No payments are required if the index rate is at, or below, the cap rate on the sold or purchased interest rate cap agreements.

 

Net interest (income) expense recorded on these swap and interest rate cap transactions totaled approximately ($4.3)5.0) million and $0.5($9.3) million during the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2023, respectively, compared to $0.1 million and $0.7 million for the three and March 31, six months ended June 30,2022,respectively, and is recorded as a component of either interest expense on FHLB Advancesadvances or brokered certificates of deposits.

 

1718

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

Note 4. Derivatives (continued)

 

The following table presents the net gains (losses) recorded in other comprehensive income and the Consolidated Statements of Income relating to the cash flow hedge derivative instruments for the periods indicated:

 

  

Three Months Ended March 31, 2023

 
  

Amount of gain (loss) recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)

  

Amount of (gain) loss reclassified from OCI to interest expense

  

Amount of gain recognized in other Noninterest income (Ineffective Portion)

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Interest rate contracts

 $(4,361) $(4,267) $- 
             

 

  

Three Months Ended March 31, 2022

 
  

Amount of gain (loss) recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)

  

Amount of (gain) loss reclassified from OCI to interest expense

  

Amount of gain recognized in other Noninterest income (Ineffective Portion)

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Interest rate contracts

 $19,000  $525  $- 

  

Six Months Ended June 30, 2023

 
  

Amount of gain (loss) recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)

  

Amount of (gain) loss reclassified from OCI to interest expense

  

Amount of gain recognized in other Noninterest income (Ineffective Portion)

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Interest rate contracts

 $10,064  $(8,221) $- 

  

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022

 
  

Amount of gain (loss) recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)

  

Amount of (gain) loss reclassified from OCI to interest expense

  

Amount of gain recognized in other Noninterest income (Ineffective Portion)

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Interest rate contracts

 $27,284  $654  $- 

 

The following table reflects the cash flow hedges included in the consolidated statements of condition as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

 

  

March 31, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

 
  

Notional Amount

  

Fair Value

  

Notional Amount

  

Fair Value

 
      

(dollars in thousands)

     

Interest rate contracts

 $950,000  $47,620  $950,000  $56,797 
  

June 30, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

 
  

Notional Amount

  

Fair Value

  

Notional Amount

  

Fair Value

 
      

(dollars in thousands)

     

Interest rate contracts

 $950,000  $57,545  $950,000  $56,797 

 

1819

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses

 

Loans Receivable – The following table sets forth the composition of the Company’s loan portfolio segments, including net deferred loan fees, as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

 

 March 31, 2023  December 31, 2022  June 30, 2023  December 31, 2022 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $1,414,226  $1,472,734  $1,472,795  $1,472,734 

Commercial real estate

 5,835,880  5,795,228  5,831,382  5,795,228 

Commercial construction

 630,469  574,139  596,219  574,139 

Residential real estate

 259,166  264,748  254,405  264,748 

Consumer

  1,435   2,312   1,416   2,312 

Gross loans

 8,141,176  8,109,161  8,156,217  8,109,161 

Net deferred loan fees

  (9,057)  (9,472)  (7,677)  (9,472)

Total loans receivable

 $8,132,119  $8,099,689  $8,148,540  $8,099,689 

 

As of  both  March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, loans totaling approximately $5.5 billion and $2.7 billion, respectively, were pledged to secure borrowings from the FHLB of New York. During April 2023 the Bank increased its unpaid principal balances of loans pledged to $5.4 billion, as a result of increasing unutilized borrowing capacity at bothYork and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the FHLB of New York.

 

Loans held-for-sale - The following table sets forth the composition of the Company’s loans held-for-sale as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

 

 March 31, 2023  December 31, 2022  June 30, 2023  December 31, 2022 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial real estate

 $11,197  $13,473  $-  $13,473 

Residential real estate

  -   299   1,089   299 

Total carrying amount

 $11,197  $13,772  $1,089  $13,772 

 

Loans Receivable on Nonaccrual Status - The following tables present nonaccrual loans with an ACL and nonaccrual loans without an ACL as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

June 30, 2023

 
 

Nonaccrual loans with ACL

  

Nonaccrual loans without ACL

  

Total nonaccrual loans

  

Nonaccrual loans with ACL

  

Nonaccrual loans without ACL

  

Total nonaccrual loans

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $18,766  $555  $19,321  $18,829  $5,824  $24,653 

Commercial real estate

 3,348  22,138  25,486  3,346  20,183  23,529 

Residential real estate

  815   2,045   2,860   984   2,330   3,314 

Total

 $22,929  $24,738  $47,667  $23,159  $28,337  $51,496 

 

1920

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses (continued)

 

  

December 31, 2022

 
  Nonaccrual loans with ACL  Nonaccrual loans without ACL  Total nonaccrual loans 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $23,512  $1,745  $25,257 

Commercial real estate

  10,220   6,597   16,817 

Residential real estate

  604   1,776   2,380 

Total

 $34,336  $10,118  $44,454 

 

Nonaccrual loans include both smaller balance homogeneous loans that are collectively evaluated and individually evaluated.

 

Credit Quality Indicators - The Company continuously monitors the credit quality of its loans receivable. In addition to its internal monitoring, the Company utilizes the services of a third-party loan review firm to periodically validate the credit quality of its loans receivable on a sample basis. Credit quality is monitored by reviewing certain credit quality indicators. Assets classified “Pass” are deemed to possess average to superior credit quality, requiring no more than normal attention. Assets classified as “Special Mention” have generally acceptable credit quality yet possess higher risk characteristics/circumstances than satisfactory assets. Such conditions include strained liquidity, slow pay, stale financial statements, or other conditions that require more stringent attention from the lending staff. These conditions, if not corrected, may weaken the loancredit quality or inadequately protect the Company’s credit position at some future date. Assets are classified “Substandard” if the asset has a well-defined weakness that requires management’s attention to a greater degree than for loans classified special mention. Such weakness, if left uncorrected, could possibly result in the compromised ability of the loan to perform to contractual requirements. An asset is classified as “Doubtful” if it is inadequately protected by the net worth and/or paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral, if any, that secures the obligation. Assets classified as doubtful include assets for which there is a “distinct possibility” that a degree of loss will occur if the inadequacies are not corrected.

 

2021

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses (continued)

 

We evaluate whether a modification, extension or renewal of a loan is a current period origination in accordance with GAAP. Generally, loans up for renewal are subject to a full credit evaluation before the renewal is granted and such loans are considered current period originations for purpose of the table below. The following table presents loans by origination and risk designation as of March 31,June 30, 2023 (dollars in thousands):

 

 

Term loans amortized cost basis by origination year

      

Term loans amortized cost basis by origination year

     
 

2023

  

2022

  

2021

  

2020

  

2019

  

Prior

  

Revolving Loans

  

Total Gross Loans

  

2023

  

2022

  

2021

  

2020

  

2019

  

Prior

  

Revolving Loans

  

Total Gross Loans

 

Commercial

                                

Pass

 $88,764  $287,784  $275,151  $44,118  $18,468  $135,355  $525,263  $1,374,903  $113,591  $261,352  $277,527  $43,047  $15,418  $129,241  $593,410  $1,433,586 

Special mention

 -  -  -  -  578  8,468  3,312  12,358  -  -  -  -  572  8,444  3,298  12,314 

Substandard

 -  802  140  12  1,748  21,867  2,396  26,965  304  3,585  169  7  1,578  19,766  1,486  26,895 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Commercial

 $88,764  $288,586  $275,291  $44,130  $20,794  $165,690  $530,971  $1,414,226  $113,895  $264,937  $277,696  $43,054  $17,568  $157,451  $598,194  $1,472,795 
  

Commercial Real Estate

                                

Pass

 $58,920  $1,586,883  $1,593,747  $374,873  $364,428  $1,335,482  $434,426  $5,748,759  $105,297  $1,579,132  $1,594,527  $361,785  $359,274  $1,297,204  $450,459  $5,747,678 

Special mention

 -  -  -  -  -  37,007  -  37,007  -  -  -  -  -  36,141  -  36,141 

Substandard

 -  -  1,919  -  5,013  26,265  16,917  50,114  -  -  1,909  -  2,637  26,143  16,874  47,563 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Commercial Real Estate

 $58,920  $1,586,883  $1,595,666  $374,873  $369,441  $1,398,754  $451,343  $5,835,880  $105,297  $1,579,132  $1,596,436  $361,785  $361,911  $1,359,488  $467,333  $5,831,382 
  

Commercial Construction

                                

Pass

 $-  $4,263  $7,340  $6,721  $-  $-  $603,779  $622,103  $400  $4,931  $15,717  $6,720  $-  $-  $559,801  $587,569 

Special mention

 -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  - 

Substandard

 -  -  -  -  -  -  8,366  8,366  -  -  -  -  -  -  8,650  8,650 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Commercial Construction

 $-  $4,263  $7,340  $6,721  $-  $-  $612,145  $630,469  $400  $4,931  $15,717  $6,720  $-  $-  $568,451  $596,219 
  

Residential

                                

Pass

 $2,768  $44,461  $25,141  $24,036  $21,394  $96,458  $37,979  $252,237  $3,300  $44,256  $24,397  $23,349  $20,530  $94,296  $36,911  $247,039 

Special mention

 -  -  -  -  -  662  3,407  4,069  -  -  -  -  -  658  3,393  4,051 

Substandard

 -  -  -  -  -  2,635  225  2,860  -  -  579  -  -  2,567  169  3,315 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Residential Real Estate

 $2,768  $44,461  $25,141  $24,036  $21,394  $99,755  $41,611  $259,166  $3,300  $44,256  $24,976  $23,349  $20,530  $97,521  $40,473  $254,405 
  

Consumer

                                

Pass

 $1,182  $157  $-  $7  $-  $1  $88  $1,435  $1,218  $101  $-  $7  $-  $-  $90  $1,416 

Special mention

 -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  - 

Substandard

 -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  - 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Consumer

 $1,182  $157  $-  $7  $-  $1  $88  $1,435  $1,218  $101  $-  $7  $-  $-  $90  $1,416 
  

Total

                                

Pass

 $151,634  $1,923,548  $1,901,379  $449,755  $404,290  $1,567,296  $1,601,535  $7,999,437  $223,806  $1,889,772  $1,912,168  $434,908  $395,222  $1,520,741  $1,640,671  $8,017,288 

Special mention

 -  -  -  -  578  46,137  6,719  53,434  -  -  -  -  572  45,243  6,691  52,506 

Substandard

 -  802  2,059  12  6,761  50,767  27,904  88,305  304  3,585  2,657  7  4,215  48,476  27,179  86,423 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Grand Total

 $151,634  $1,924,350  $1,903,438  $449,767  $411,629  $1,664,200  $1,636,158  $8,141,176  $224,110  $1,893,357  $1,914,825  $434,915  $400,009  $1,614,460  $1,674,541  $8,156,217 

 

2122

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses (continued)

 

The following table presents loans by origination and risk designation as of December 31, 2022 (dollars in thousands):

 

  

Term loans amortized cost basis by origination year

       
  

2022

  

2021

  

2020

  

2019

  2018  

Prior

  

Revolving Loans

  

Total Gross Loans

 

Commercial

                                

Pass

 $301,636  $305,721  $47,952  $28,177  $52,950  $127,739  $550,483  $1,414,658 

Special mention

  -   -   -   583   26   8,551   3,292   12,452 

Substandard

  7,615   146   15   1,769   11,214   22,596   2,269   45,624 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Commercial

 $309,251  $305,867  $47,967  $30,529  $64,190  $158,886  $556,044  $1,472,734 
                                 

Commercial Real Estate

                                

Pass

 $1,571,751  $1,608,023  $382,987  $358,578  $375,886  $987,982  $401,365  $5,686,572 

Special mention

  3,040   -   -   -   -   37,774   8,839   49,653 

Substandard

  -   1,929   -   6,526   19,138   23,287   8,123   59,003 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Commercial Real Estate

 $1,574,791  $1,609,952  $382,987  $365,104  $395,024  $1,049,043  $418,327  $5,795,228 
                                 

Commercial Construction

                                

Pass

 $8,615  $7,605  $6,720  $508  $-  $-  $542,460  $565,908 

Special mention

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Substandard

  -   -   -   -   -   -   8,231   8,231 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Commercial Construction

 $8,615  $7,605  $6,720  $508  $-  $-  $550,691  $574,139 
                                 

Residential Real Estate

                                

Pass

 $45,926  $25,318  $24,409  $21,557  $20,284  $78,314  $41,468  $257,276 

Special mention

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Substandard

  -   -   -   -   -   3,379   4,093   7,472 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Residential Real Estate

 $45,926  $25,318  $24,409  $21,557  $20,284  $81,693  $45,561  $264,748 
                                 

Consumer

                                

Pass

 $2,219  $-  $9  $-  $-  $2  $82  $2,312 

Special mention

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Substandard

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Total Consumer

 $2,219  $-  $9  $-  $-  $2  $82  $2,312 
                                 

Total

                                

Pass

 $1,930,147  $1,946,667  $462,077  $408,820  $449,120  $1,194,037  $1,535,858  $7,926,726 

Special mention

  3,040   -   -   583   26   46,325   12,131   62,105 

Substandard

  7,615   2,075   15   8,295   30,352   49,262   22,716   120,330 

Doubtful

  -   -   -   -   -   -   -   - 

Grand Total

 $1,940,802  $1,948,742  $462,092  $417,698  $479,498  $1,289,624  $1,570,705  $8,109,161 

    

2223

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses (continued)

 

Collateral Dependent Loans: Loans which meet certain criteria are individually evaluated as part of the process of calculating the allowance for credit losses. The evaluation is determined on an individual basis using the fair value of the collateral as of the reporting date. The following table presents collateral dependent loans that were individually evaluated for impairment as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

June 30, 2023

 
 Real Estate  

Other

  

Total

  Real Estate  

Other

  

Total

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $4,950  $16,650  $21,600  $4,918  $14,826  $19,744 

Commercial real estate

 49,529  -  49,529  47,478  -  47,478 

Commercial construction

 8,366  -  8,366  8,650  -  8,650 

Residential real estate

 6,114  -  6,114  6,382  -  6,382 

Total

 $68,959  $16,650  $85,609  $67,428  $14,826  $82,254 

 

  

December 31, 2022

 
  Real Estate  

Other

  

Total

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $5,352  $22,517  $27,869 

Commercial real estate

  52,477   -   52,477 

Commercial construction

  8,232   -   8,232 

Residential real estate

  5,864   -   5,864 

Total

 $71,925  $22,517  $94,442 

 

Aging Analysis - The following table provides an analysis of the aging of the loans by class, excluding the effect of net deferred fees, which are past due as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

  

 

March 31, 2023

  

June 30, 2023

 
 

30-59 Days Past Due

  

60-89 Days Past Due

  

90 Days or Greater Past Due and Still Accruing

  

Nonaccrual

  

Total Past Due and Nonaccrual

  

Current

  

Gross Loans

  

30-59 Days Past Due

  

60-89 Days Past Due

  

90 Days or Greater Past Due and Still Accruing

  

Nonaccrual

  

Total Past Due and Nonaccrual

  

Current

  

Gross Loans

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $1,929  $-  $-  $19,321  $21,250  $1,392,976  $1,414,226  $457  $1,375  $-  $24,653  $26,485  $1,446,310  $1,472,795 

Commercial real estate

 5,740  810  -  25,486  32,036  5,803,844  5,835,880  -  534  5,739  23,529  29,802  5,801,580  5,831,382 

Commercial construction

 4,707  -  -  -  4,707  625,762  630,469  -  -  -  -  -  596,219  596,219 

Residential real estate

 703  -  -  2,860  3,563  255,603  259,166  51  438  -  3,314  3,803  250,602  254,405 

Consumer

  -   -   -   -   -   1,435   1,435   -   -   -   -   -   1,416   1,416 

Total

 $13,079  $810  $-  $47,667  $61,556  $8,079,620  $8,141,176  $508  $2,347  $5,739  $51,496  $60,090  $8,096,127  $8,156,217 

 

  

December 31, 2022

 
  

30-59 Days Past Due

  

60-89 Days Past Due

  

90 Days or Greater Past Due and Still Accruing

  

Nonaccrual

  

Total Past Due and Nonaccrual

  

Current

  

Gross Loans

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $306  $-  $-  $25,257  $25,563  $1,447,171  $1,472,734 

Commercial real estate

  90   -   5,591   16,817   22,498   5,772,730   5,795,228 

Commercial construction

  -   -   -   -   -   574,139   574,139 

Residential real estate

  1,569   -   -   2,380   3,949   260,799   264,748 

Consumer

  -   -   -   -   -   2,312   2,312 

Total

 $1,965  $-  $5,591  $44,454  $52,010  $8,057,151  $8,109,161 

 

2324

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses (continued)

The following tables detail, at the period-end presented, the amount of gross loans (excluding loans held-for-sale) that are evaluated individually, and collectively, for impairment, those acquired with deteriorated quality, and the related portion of the allowance for credit losses that are allocated to each loan portfolio segment:

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

June 30, 2023

 
 

Commercial

 Commercial real estate 

Commercial construction

 Residential real estate 

Consumer

 

Total

  

Commercial

 Commercial real estate 

Commercial construction

 Residential real estate 

Consumer

 

Total

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Allowance for credit losses - loans

  

Individually evaluated impairment

 $5,861  $924  $-  $72  $-  $6,857  $8,482  $902  $-  $109  $-  $9,493 

Collectively evaluated impairment

 19,568  52,076  3,966  3,796  6  79,412  20,111  51,607  3,546  3,710  5  78,979 

Acquired with deteriorated credit quality individually analyzed

  733   -   -   -   -   733   733   -   -   -   -   733 

Total

 $26,162  $53,000  $3,966  $3,868  $6  $87,002  $29,326  $52,509  $3,546  $3,819  $5  $89,205 
  

Gross loans

  

Individually evaluated impairment

 $24,204  $49,529  $8,366  $6,115  $-  $88,214  $27,207  $47,478  $8,650  $6,382  $-  $89,717 

Collectively evaluated impairment

 1,387,738  5,786,351  622,103  253,051  1,435  8,050,678  1,445,086  5,783,904  587,569  248,023  1,416  8,065,998 

Acquired with deteriorated credit quality individually analyzed

  2,284   -   -   -   -   2,284   502   -   -   -   -   502 

Total

 $1,414,226  $5,835,880  $630,469  $259,166  $1,435  $8,141,176  $1,472,795  $5,831,382  $596,219  $254,405  $1,416  $8,156,217 

 

  

December 31, 2022

 
  

Commercial

  

Commercial real estate

  

Commercial construction

  

Residential real estate

  

Consumer

  

Total

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Allowance for credit losses - loans

                        

Individually evaluated impairment

 $7,426  $1,003  $-  $50  $-  $8,479 

Collectively evaluated impairment

  19,319   50,818   3,718   4,093   7   77,955 

Acquired with deteriorated credit quality individually analyzed

  2,158   1,921   -   -   -   4,079 

Total

 $28,903  $53,742  $3,718  $4,143  $7  $90,513 
                         

Gross loans

                        

Individually evaluated impairment

 $30,994  $46,886  $8,232  $5,864  $-  $91,976 

Collectively evaluated impairment

  1,436,866   5,742,751   565,907   258,884   2,312   8,006,720 

Acquired with deteriorated credit quality individually analyzed

  4,874   5,591   -   -   -   10,465 

Total

 $1,472,734  $5,795,228  $574,139  $264,748  $2,312  $8,109,161 

 

2425

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses (continued)

 

Activity in the Company’s ACL for loans for the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2023 is summarized in the tables below.

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2023

  

Three Months Ended June 30, 2023

 
 

Commercial

  

Commercial real estate

  

Commercial construction

  

Residential real estate

  

Consumer

  

Total

  

Commercial

  

Commercial real estate

  

Commercial construction

  

Residential real estate

  

Consumer

  

Total

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Balance as of December 31, 2022

 $28,903  $53,742  $3,718  $4,143  $7  $90,513 

Balance as of March 31, 2023

 $26,162  $53,000  $3,966  $3,868  $6  $87,002 

Charge-offs

 (2,767) (1,717) -  -  -  (4,484) (1,100) -  -  (18) -  (1,118)

Recoveries

 -  -  -  1  -  1  9  -  -  67  -  76 

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses - loans

  26   975   248   (276)  (1)  972   4,255   (491)  (420)  (98)  (1)  3,245 
  

Balance as of March 31, 2023

 $26,162  $53,000  $3,966  $3,868  $6  $87,002 

Balance as of June 30, 2023

 $29,326  $52,509  $3,546  $3,819  $5  $89,205 

 

Activity in the Company’s ACL for loans for the three months ended March 31,2022 is summarized in the table below.

  

Six Months Ended June 30, 2023

 
  

Commercial

  

Commercial real estate

  

Commercial construction

  

Residential real estate

  

Consumer

  

Total

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Balance as of December 31, 2022

 $28,903  $53,742  $3,718  $4,143  $7  $90,513 

Charge-offs

  (3,867)  (1,717)  -   (18)  -   (5,602)

Recoveries

  9   -   -   68   -   77 

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses - loans

  4,281   484   (172)  (374)  (2)  4,217 
                         

Balance as of June 30, 2023

 $29,326  $52,509  $3,546  $3,819  $5  $89,205 

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2022

  

Three Months Ended June 30, 2022

 
 

Commercial

  

Commercial real estate

  

Commercial construction

  

Residential real estate

  

Consumer

  

Total

  

Commercial

  

Commercial real estate

  

Commercial construction

  

Residential real estate

  

Consumer

  

Total

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Balance as of December 31, 2021

 $25,969  $45,589  $3,580  $3,628  $7  $78,773 

Balance as of March 31, 2022

 $25,459  $47,868  $3,281  $3,455  $7  $80,070 

Charge-offs

 (49) (225) -  -  -  (274) (292) (1) -  (9) -  (302)

Recoveries

 1  -  -  31  -  32  -  -  -  32  -  32 

(Reversal of) provision for credit losses - loans

  (462)  2,504   (299)  (204)  -   1,539 

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses - loans

  2,968   (305)  132   147   (3)  2,939 
  

Balance as of March 31, 2022

 $25,459  $47,868  $3,281  $3,455  $7  $80,070 

Balance as of June 30, 2022

 $28,135  $47,562  $3,413  $3,625  $4  $82,739 

 

  

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022

 
  

Commercial

  

Commercial real estate

  

Commercial construction

  

Residential real estate

  

Consumer

  

Total

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Balance as of December 31, 2021

 $25,969  $45,589  $3,580  $3,628  $7  $78,773 

Charge-offs

  (341)  (226)  -   (9)  -   (576)

Recoveries

  1   -   -   63   -   64 

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses - loans

  2,506   2,199   (167)  (57)  (3)  4,478 
                         

Balance as of June 30, 2022

 $28,135  $47,562  $3,413  $3,625  $4  $82,739 

2526

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses (continued)

 

Loan Modifications to Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulty:

 

The Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2022-02, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326) Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures (“ASU 2022-02”) effective January 1, 2023. The amendments in ASU 2022-02 eliminated the recognition and measure of troubled debt restructurings and enhanced disclosures for loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty.

 

The following table presents the amortized cost basis at the end of the reporting period of the loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty:

 

  

Three Months Ended

 
  

March 31, 2023

 
  

Term Extension

  

% of Portfolio

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $63   0.01%
  

Six Months Ended

 
  

June 30, 2023

 
  

Term Extension

  

% of Portfolio

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $53   0.00%

Commercial real estate

  213   0.00%

 

The above table consists of loans that added a weighted average of one13 commercial loan on which 3.0 years was added to the lifematurity of the modified loan,loans, which did not have a material effect on the cash flows. 

 

The following table presents the performance of loans that have been modified in the last twelve months:

 

             
             
  

March 31, 2023

 
  

Current

  

Past Due 30-89 Days

  

Past Due 90 Days or More

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $63  $-  $- 
  

June 30, 2023

 
  

Current

  

Past Due 30-89 Days

  

Past Due 90 Days or More

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $53  $-  $- 

Commercial real estate

  213   -   - 

 

There were no loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty that had a payment default during the threesix months ended March 31, June 30,2023and which were modified in the twelve months prior to that default. Default is determined at 90 or more days past due, upon charge-off, or upon foreclosure. Modified loans in default are individually evaluated for the allowance for credit losses or if the modified loan is deemed uncollectible, the loan, or a portion of the loan, is written off and the allowance for credit losses is adjusted accordingly.

 

Troubled debt restructurings:

 

Information on loan modifications prior to the adoption of ASU 2022-02 on January 1, 2023 is presented in accordance with the applicable accounting standards in effect at that time. During the threesix months ended March 31, June 30,2022,the Company modified two loans that were determined to be troubled debt restructuring,restructurings, a commercial loan and a commercial real estate loan, with outstanding balances of $98 thousand and $8.3 million, respectively. The commercial loan modified as a TDR during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 was a maturity extension, while the commercial real estate loan modified as a TDR during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022 was an interest rate reduction, that was commensurate with a one-time $500,000 principal paydown.

 

 

2627

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses (continued)

 

 

Allowance for Credit Losses for Unfunded Commitments

 

The Company has recorded an ACL for unfunded credit commitments, which was recorded in other liabilities. The provision is recorded within the provision for (reversal of) credit losses on the Company’s income statement. The following table presents a roll forward of the allowance for credit losses for unfunded commitments for the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022:

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Three Months Ended

  

Three Months Ended

 

Three Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

 

March 31,

  

June 30,

 

June 30,

 
 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Balance at beginning of period

 $3,036  $2,351  $3,064  $2,262 

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses - unfunded commitments

  28   (89)  (245)  61 

Balance at end of period

 $3,064  $2,262  $2,819  $2,323 

  

Six Months Ended

  

Six Months Ended

 
  

June 30,

  

June 30,

 
  

2023

  

2022

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Balance at beginning of period

 $3,036  $2,351 

Reversal of credit losses - unfunded commitments

  (217)  (28)

Balance at end of period

 $2,819  $2,323 

 

2728

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 5. Loans and the Allowance for Credit Losses (continued)

 

Components of (Reversal of) Provision for Credit Losses

 

The following table summarizes the provision for (reversal of) credit losses for the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 :

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Three Months Ended

  

Three Months Ended

 

Three Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

 

March 31,

  

June 30,

 

June 30,

 
 

2023

 

2022

  

2023

 

2022

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Provision for credit losses - loans

 $972  $1,539 

Provision for credit losses – loans

 $3,245  $2,939 

Provision for (reversal of) credit losses - unfunded commitments

  28   (89)  (245)  61 

Provision for credit losses

 $1,000  $1,450  $3,000  $3,000 

  

Six Months Ended

  

Six Months Ended

 
  

June 30,

  

June 30,

 
  

2023

  

2022

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Provision for credit losses – loans

 $4,217  $4,478 

Reversal of credit losses - unfunded commitments

  (217)  (28)

Provision for credit losses

 $4,000  $4,450 

 

 

Note 6. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date.

 

 Level 1:

Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.

 

 Level 2:

Quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.

 

 Level 3:

Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (for example, supported with little or no market activity).

 

An asset’s or liability’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The following information should not be interpreted as an estimate of the fair value of the entire Company since a fair value calculation is only provided for a limited portion of the Company’s assets and liabilities. Due to a wide range of valuation techniques and the degree of subjectivity used in making the estimates, comparisons between the Company’s disclosures and those of other companies may not be meaningful.

 

2829

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 6. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments (continued)

 

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

 

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair values of the Company’s assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022:

 

Investment Securities Available-for-Sale and Equity Securities: Where quoted prices are available in an active market, securities are classified within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Level 1 inputs include securities that have quoted prices in active markets for identical assets. If quoted market prices are not available, then fair values are estimated by using pricing models, quoted prices of securities with similar characteristics, or discounted cash flows. Examples of instruments which would generally be classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy include municipal bonds and certain agency collateralized mortgage obligations. In certain cases where there is limited activity in the market for a particular instrument, assumptions must be made to determine the fair value of the instruments and these are classified as Level 3. When measuring fair value, the valuation techniques available under the market approach, income approach and/or cost approach are used. The Company’s evaluations are based on market data and the Company employs combinations of these approaches for its valuation methods depending on the asset class.

 

Derivatives: The fair value of derivatives is based on valuation models using observable market data as of the measurement date (level 2). Our derivatives are traded in an over-the-counter market where quoted market prices are not always available. Therefore, the fair values of derivatives are determined using quantitative models that utilize multiple market inputs. The inputs will vary based on the type of derivative, but could include interest rates, prices and indices to generate continuous yield or pricing curves, prepayment rate, and volatility factors to value the position. The majority of market inputs are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, including brokers, market transactions and third-party pricing services.

 

For financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, the fair value measurements by level within the fair value hierarchy used as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 are as follows:

 

    

March 31, 2023

     

June 30, 2023

 
    

Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using

     

Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using

 
 

Total Fair Value

  

Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)

  

Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)

  

Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)

  

Total 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)

        

Recurring fair value measurements: Assets

        

Investment securities:

        

Available-for-sale:

        

Federal agency obligations

 $43,515  $-  $43,515  $-  $43,153  $-  $43,153  $- 

Residential mortgage pass-through securities

 419,667  -  419,667  -  409,126  -  409,126  - 

Commercial mortgage pass-through securities

 21,960  -  21,960  -  21,210  -  21,210  - 

Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivision

 138,296  -  130,808  7,488  133,839  -  126,602  7,237 

Corporate bonds and notes

 3,977  -  3,977  -  3,959  -  3,959  - 

Asset-backed securities

 1,454  -  1,454  -  1,381  -  1,381  - 

Other securities

  132   132   -   -   151   151   -   - 

Total available-for-sale

 629,001  132  621,381  7,488  612,819  151  605,431  7,237 
        

Equity securities

 18,025  9,892  8,133  -  17,950  9,736  8,214  - 

Derivatives

  47,620   -   47,620   -   57,545   -   57,545   - 

Total assets

 $694,646  $10,024  $677,134  $7,488  $688,314  $9,887  $671,190  $7,237 

 

2930

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 6. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments – (continued)

 

      

December 31, 2022

 
      

Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using

 
  

Total 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)

                

Recurring fair value measurements: Assets

                

Investment securities:

                

Available-for-sale:

                

Federal agency obligations

 $44,450  $-  $44,450  $- 

Residential mortgage pass- through securities

  417,578   -   417,578   - 

Commercial mortgage pass-through securities

  21,104   -   21,104   - 

Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivision

  142,896   -   135,547   7,349 

Corporate bonds and notes

  6,974   -   6,974   - 

Asset-backed securities

  1,640   -   1,640   - 

Other securities

  242   242   -   - 

Total available-for-sale

 $634,884  $242  $627,293  $7,349 
                 

Equity securities

  15,811   9,733   6,078   - 

Derivatives

  56,797   -   56,797   - 

Total assets

 $707,492  $9,975  $690,168  $7,349 

 

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and during the year ended December 31, 2022.

 

Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

 

The Company may be required periodically to measure certain assets at fair value on a nonrecurring basis in accordance with GAAP. These adjustments to fair value usually result from the application of lower of cost or fair value accounting or impairment write-downs of individual assets. The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair values of the Company’s assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

 

Loans Held-for-Sale: Residential mortgage loans, originated and intended for sale in the secondary market, are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or estimated fair value as determined by outstanding commitments from investors. For these loans originated and intended for sale, gains and losses on loan sales (sale proceeds minus carrying value) are recorded in other income and direct loan origination costs and fees are deferred at origination of the loan and are recognized in other income upon sale of the loan. Management obtains quotes or bids on all or parts of these loans directly from the purchasing financial institutions (Level 2).

 

Other loans held-for-sale are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or estimated fair value.  Fair value of these loans is determined based on the terms of the loan, such as interest rate, maturity date, reset term, as well as sales of similar assets (Level 3).

 

3031

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 6. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments – (continued)

 

Collateral Dependent Loans: The Company may record adjustments to the carrying value of loans based on fair value measurements, generally as partial charge-offs of the uncollectible portions of these loans. These adjustments also include certain impairment amounts for collateral dependent loans calculated in accordance with GAAP. Impairment amounts are generally based on the fair value of the underlying collateral supporting the loan and, as a result, the carrying value of the loan less the calculated impairment amount applicable to that loan does not necessarily represent the fair value of the loan. Real estate collateral is valued using independent appraisals or other indications of value based on recent comparable sales of similar properties or assumptions generally observable by market participants. However, due to the substantial judgment applied and limited volume of activity as compared to other assets, fair value is based on Level 3 inputs. Estimates of fair value used for collateral supporting commercial loans generally are based on assumptions not observable in the marketplace and are also based on Level 3 inputs.

 

For assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, the fair value measurements as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 are as follows:

 

    

Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using

     

Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using

 

Assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis:

 March 31, 2023  Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)  Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)  Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)  June 30, 2023  Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)  Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)  Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) 

Collateral dependent loans:

 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $11,635  $-  $-  $11,635  $10,779  $-  $-  $10,779 

Commercial real estate

 10,428  -  -  10,428  10,376  -  -  10,376 

Residential real estate

 1,363  -  -  1,363  1,319  -  -  1,319 

 

      

Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using

 

Assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis:

 December 31, 2022  Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)  Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)  Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) 

Collateral dependent loans:

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $14,550  $-  $-  $14,550 

Commercial real estate

  17,264   -   -   17,264 

Residential real estate

  1,392   -   -   1,392 

 

Collateral dependent loans Collateral dependent loans as of March 31,June 30, 2023 that required a valuation allowance were $30.6$28.7 million with a related valuation allowance of $7.2$6.2 million compared to $43.8 million with a related valuation allowance of $10.5 million as of December 31, 2022.

 

3132

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 6. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments – (continued)

 

Assets Measured with Significant Unobservable Level 3 Inputs

 

Recurring basis

 

The tables below present a reconciliation of all assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and for the year ended December 31, 2022:

 

 Municipal Securities  Municipal Securities 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Beginning balance, December 31, 2022

 $7,349  $7,349 

Principal paydowns

 (74) (147)

Change in unrealized gain (loss)

  213 

Ending balance, March 31, 2023

 $7,488 

Change in unrealized gain

  35 

Ending balance, June 30, 2023

 $7,237 

  

 Municipal Securities  Municipal Securities 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Beginning balance, December 31, 2021

 $8,565  $8,565 

Principal paydowns

 (287) (287)

Changes in unrealized gain (loss)

  (929)

Changes in unrealized loss

  (929)

Ending balance, December 31, 2022

 $7,349  $7,349 

 

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair values of the Company’s assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022. The table below provides quantitative information about significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurements within Level 3 hierarchy.

 

March 31, 2023

         

June 30, 2023

         
 

Fair Value

 

Valuation Techniques

 

Unobservable Input

 

Rate

  

Fair Value

 

Valuation Techniques

 

Unobservable Input

 

Rate

 

Securities available-for-sale:

   

(dollars in thousands)

        

(dollars in thousands)

     

Municipal securities

 $7,488 

Discounted cash flows

 

Discount rate

 4.0% $7,237 

Discounted cash flows

 

Discount rate

 4.3%

 

December 31, 2022

           
  

Fair Value

 

Valuation Techniques

 

Unobservable Input

 

Rate

 

Securities available-for-sale:

    

(dollars in thousands)

      

Municipal securities

 $7,349 

Discounted cash flows

 

Discount rate

  4.3%

 

3233

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 6. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments – (continued)

 

Nonrecurring basis: The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair values of the Company’s assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis for the periods presented. The tables below provide quantitative information about significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurements within Level 3 hierarchy of collateral dependent loans.

 

March 31, 2023

 

June 30, 2023

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Fair Value

 

Valuation Techniques

Unobservable Input

 

Range (weighted average)

  

Fair Value

 

Valuation Techniques

Unobservable Input

 

Range (weighted average)

 

Commercial

 $11,150 

Market approach (100%)

Average transfer price as a price to unpaid principal balance

 65% –96% (67%)  $10,311 

Market approach (100%)

Average transfer price as a price to unpaid principal balance

 65% –92% (67%) 

Commercial

  485 

Appraisals of collateral value

Comparable sales

 -10% to +13% (+3%)   468 

Appraisals of collateral value

Adjustment for comparable sales

 -10% to +13% (+3%) 

Commercial real estate

  10,428 

Appraisals of collateral value

Comparable sales

 -15% to +5% (6%)   10,376 

Appraisals of collateral value

Adjustment for comparable sales

 -15% to +5% (6%) 

Residential real estate

  1,363 

Appraisals of collateral value

Comparable sales

 +21% to +39% (+27%)   1,319 

Appraisals of collateral value

Adjustment for comparable sales

 +21% to +39% (+27%) 

 

December 31, 2022

           

(dollars in thousands)

 

Fair Value

  

Valuation Techniques

Unobservable Input

 

Range (weighted average)

 

Commercial loans

 $14,028  

Market approach (100%)

Average transfer price as a price to unpaid principal balance

  65% to 96% (67%) 

Commercial loans

  522  

Appraisals of collateral value

Adjustment for comparable sales

 

-10% to +13% (+3%)

 

Commercial real estate loans

  17,264  

Appraisals of collateral value

Adjustment for comparable sales

 

-20% to +0% (-15%)

 

Residential real estate loans

  1,392  

Appraisals of collateral value

Adjustment for comparable sales

 

+21% to +39% (22%)

 

 

3334

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 6. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments – (continued)

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2023 the fair value measurements presented are consistent with Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement, in which fair value represents exit price. The following presents the carrying amount, fair value, and placement in the fair value hierarchy of the Company’s financial instruments as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022

 

     

Fair Value Measurements

      

Fair Value Measurements

 
 

Carrying Amount

 

Fair Value

 

Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)

  

Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)

 

Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)

  

Carrying Amount

 

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)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 
        

March 31, 2023

           

June 30, 2023

           

Financial assets:

        

Cash and due from banks

 $562,416  $562,416  $562,416  $-  $-  $319,924  $319,924  $319,924  $-  $- 

Securities available-for-sale

 629,001  629,001  132  621,381  7,488  612,819  612,819  151  605,431  7,237 

Restricted investments in bank stocks

 46,379 n/a n/a  n/a n/a  46,688 n/a n/a  n/a n/a 

Equity securities

 18,025  18,025  9,892  8,133  -  17,950  17,950  9,736  8,214  - 

Net loans

 8,045,117  7,749,886  -  -  7,749,886  8,059,335  7,724,946  -  -  7,724,946 

Derivatives - interest rate contracts

 47,620  47,620  -  47,620  -  57,545  57,545  -  57,545  - 

Accrued interest receivable

 46,301  46,301  -  4,829  41,472  46,237  46,236  -  5,201  41,035 
        

Financial liabilities:

        

Noninterest-bearing deposits

 1,345,265  1,345,265  1,345,265  -  -  1,356,293  1,356,293  1,356,293  -  - 

Interest-bearing deposits

 6,407,911  6,378,261  3,701,249  2,677,012  -  6,182,004  6,146,249  3,560,856  2,585,393  - 

Borrowings

 852,611  850,698  -  850,698  -  827,601  825,002  -  825,002  - 

Subordinated debentures

 79,060  78,040  -  78,040  -  79,187  77,576  -  77,576  - 

Accrued interest payable

 8,639  8,639  -  8,639  -  8,083  8,083  -  8,083  - 
        

December 31, 2022

                      

Financial assets:

        

Cash and due from banks

 $268,315  $268,315  $268,315  $-  $-  $268,315  $268,315  $268,315  $-  $- 

Investment securities available-for-sale

 634,884  634,884  242  627,293  7,349  634,884  634,884  242  627,293  7,349 

Restricted investment in bank stocks

 46,604  n/a  n/a  n/a  n/a  46,604  n/a  n/a  n/a  n/a 

Equity securities

 15,811  15,811  9,733  6,078  -  15,811  15,811  9,733  6,078  - 

Net loans

 8,009,176  7,723,378  -  -  7,723,378  8,009,176  7,723,378  -  -  7,723,378 

Derivatives - interest rate contracts

 56,797  56,797  -  56,797  -  56,797  56,797  -  56,797  - 

Accrued interest receivable

 46,062  46,062  -  4,685  41,377  46,062  46,062  -  4,685  41,377 
        

Financial liabilities:

        

Noninterest-bearing deposits

 1,501,614 1,501,614 1,501,614  - -  1,501,614 1,501,614 1,501,614  - - 

Interest-bearing deposits

 5,855,008  5,811,291  3,460,818  2,350,473  -  5,855,008  5,811,291  3,460,818  2,350,473  - 

Borrowings

 857,622  854,698  .  854,698  -  857,622  854,698  .  854,698  - 

Subordinated debentures

 153,255  153,581  -  153,581  -  153,255  153,581  -  153,581  - 

Accrued interest payable

 6,925  6,925  -  6,925  -  6,925  6,925  -  6,925  - 

 

3435

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 6. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments – (continued)

 

The fair value of commitments to originate loans is 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 fair values of letters of credit and lines of credit are based on fees currently charged for similar agreements or on the estimated cost to terminate or otherwise settle the obligations with the counterparties at the reporting date. The fair value of commitments to originate loans is immaterial and not included in the tables above.

 

Changes in assumptions or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on these estimated fair values.

 

The Company’s remaining assets and liabilities, which are not considered financial instruments, have not been valued differently than has been customary with historical cost accounting. No disclosure of the relationship value of the Company’s core deposit base is required by FASB ASC 825-10.

 

Fair value estimates are based on existing balance sheet financial instruments, without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business and the value of assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments. For example, there are certain significant assets and liabilities that are not considered financial assets or liabilities, such as deferred taxes, premises and equipment, and goodwill. 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.

 

Management believes that reasonable comparability between financial institutions may not be likely, due to the wide range of permitted valuation techniques and numerous estimates which must be made, given the absence of active secondary markets for many of the financial instruments. This lack of uniform valuation methodologies also introduces a greater degree of subjectivity to these estimated fair values.

 

 

Note 7. Comprehensive (Loss) Income  

 

Total comprehensive (loss) income includes all changes in equity during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. The Company’s other comprehensive income is comprised of unrealized holding gains and losses on securities available-for-sale, unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, obligations for defined benefit pension plan and an adjustment to reflect the curtailment of the Company’s defined benefit pension plan, each net of taxes.

 

The following table represents the reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):

 

Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Components

 

Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

 

Affected Line item in the Consolidated Statements of Income

 

Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

  

Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

 

Affected Line item in the Consolidated Statements of Income

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

   

Three Months Ended June 30,

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

  
 

2023

  

2022

   

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

Interest income (expense) on cash flow hedges

 $4,267  $(525)

Borrowings and brokered certificate of deposits expense

 $3,953  $(129) $8,220  $(654)

Borrowings and deposits expense

  (1,284)  147 

Income tax (expense) benefit

  (1,189)  37   (2,473)  184 

Income tax (expense) benefit

 $2,983  $(378)  $2,764  $(92) $5,747  $(470) 
            

Amortization of pension plan net actuarial losses

 $(74) $(16)

Other components of net periodic pension expense

 $(74) $(16) $(148) $(32)

Other components of net periodic pension expense

  23   4 

Income tax benefit

  22   5   45   9 

Income tax benefit

 $(51) $(12)  $(52) $(11) $(103) $(23) 

Total reclassification

 $2,932  $(390)  $2,712  $(103) $5,644  $(493) 

 

3536

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 7.  Comprehensive (Loss) Income (continued)

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 consisted of the following:

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

  

June 30, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Investment securities available-for-sale, net of tax

 $(57,292) $(61,775) $(64,640) $(61,775)

Cash flow hedge, net of tax

 26,328  32,360  33,649  32,360 

Defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans, net of tax

  (2,898)  (2,949)  (2,846)  (2,949)

Total

 $(33,862) $(32,364) $(33,837) $(32,364)

 

 

Note 8.  Stock-based Compensation 

 

The Company’s stockholders approved the 2017 Equity Compensation Plan (“the Plan”) on May 23, 2017. The Plan eliminates all remaining issuable shares under previous plans and is the only outstanding plan as of March 31,June 30, 2023. On May 30, 2023, the Company's stockholders approved an amendment to the Plan that will increase the maximum number of shares issuable by 450,000. The maximum number of shares of common stock or equivalents which may be issued under the Plan is 750,000.now 1,200,000. Grants under the Plan can be in the form of stock options (qualified or non-qualified), restricted shares, restricted sharedeferred stock units or performance units. Shares available for grant and issuance under the Plan as of March 31,June 30, 2023 were approximately 59,209.470,147. The Company intends to issue all shares under the Plan in the form of newly issued shares.

 

Restricted stock, options and deferred stock units typically have a three-year vesting period starting one year after the date of grant with one-third vesting each year. The options generally expire ten years from the date of grant. Restricted stock and deferred stock units granted to new employees and board members may be granted with shorter vesting periods. Grants of performance units typically have a cliff vesting after three years or upon a change of control. All issuances are subject to forfeiture if the recipient is no longer employed prior to the award's vesting. Any forfeitures would result in previously recognized expense being reversed. Restricted stock grants have the same dividend and voting rights as common stock, while options, performance units and deferred stock units do not.

 

All awards are issued at the fair value of the underlying shares at the grant date. The Company expenses the cost of the awards, which is determined to be the fair market value of the awards at the date of grant, ratably over the vesting period. Forfeiture rates are not estimated but are recorded as incurred. Stock-based compensation expense was $1.1 million for both the three and sixmonths ended March 31,June 30, 2023 was $1.2 million and $2.4 million, respectively. Stock-based compensation expense for the threeand March 31, 2022.six months ended June 30, 2022 was $1.2 million and $2.3 million, respectively.

  

 Activity under the Company’s options for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 was as follows:

 

 Number of Stock Options  Weighted-Average Exercise Price  Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)  Aggregate Intrinsic Value  Number of Stock Options  Weighted-Average Exercise Price  Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)  Aggregate Intrinsic Value 

Outstanding as of December 31, 2022

 8,680  $12.95       8,680  $12.95      

Granted

 -  -       -  -      

Exercised

 (6,473) 12.52       (6,742) 12.59      

Forfeited/cancelled/expired

  -  -        -  -      

Outstanding as of March 31, 2023

  2,207  14.24  0.41  $7,592 

Exercisable as of March 31, 2023

  2,207  $14.24  0.41  $7,592 

Outstanding as of June 30, 2023

  1,938  14.24  0.16  $5,368 

Exercisable as of June 30, 2023

  1,938  $14.24  0.16  $5,368 

 

The aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding and exercisable options above represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value (the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on March 31,June 30, 2023 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on March 31,June 30, 2023. This amount changes based on the fair market value of the Company’s stock.

 

3637

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 8.  Stock-Based Compensation (continued)  

 

Activity under the Company’s restricted stock for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 was as follows:

 

 Nonvested Shares  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value  Nonvested Shares  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value 

Nonvested as of December 31, 2022

 85,931  $26.20  85,931  $26.20 

Granted

 50,617  17.93  93,147  16.19 

Vested

 (24,445) 27.49  (46,940) 27.59 

Forfeited/cancelled/expired

  (1,415) 29.46   (6,613) 23.60 

Nonvested as of March 31, 2023

  110,688  $22.09 

Nonvested as of June 30, 2023

  125,525  $18.39 

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, there was approximately $1.4$1.5 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested restricted stock granted. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.61.3 years.

 

A summary of the status of unearned performance unit awards and the change during the period is presented in the table below:

 

 Units (expected)  Units (maximum)  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value  Units (expected)  Units (maximum)  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value 

Unearned as of December 31, 2022

 195,265     $17.98  195,265     $17.98 

Awarded

 85,158     17.93  85,158     17.93 

Vested shares

  (116,192)    10.77   (116,192)    10.77 

Unearned as of March 31, 2023

  164,231   233,087  $23.06 

Unearned as of June 30, 2023

  164,231   233,087  $23.06 

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the specific number of shares related to performance units that were expected to vest was 164,231, determined by actual performance in consideration of the established range of the performance targets, which is consistent with the level of expense currently being recognized over the vesting period. Should this expectation change, additional compensation expense could be recorded in future periods or previously recognized expense could be reversed. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the maximum amount of performance units that ultimately could vest if performance targets were exceeded is 233,087. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, 116,192 shares vested. A total of 63,839 shares were netted from the vested shares to satisfy employee tax obligations. The net shares issued from vesting of performance units during the threesix months ended March 31, June 30,2023were 52,353 shares. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, compensation cost of approximately $2.4$2.1 million related to non-vested performance units not yet recognized is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.32.1 years.

 

A summary of the status of unearned deferred stock units and the changes in deferred stock units during the period is presented in the table below:

 

 Units (expected)  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value  Units (expected)  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value 

Unearned as of December 31, 2022

 120,035  $23.84  120,035  $23.84 

Awarded

 146,857  18.98  146,857  18.98 

Vested shares

  (70,669) 19.19   (70,669) 19.19 

Unearned as of March 31, 2023

  196,223  $21.88 

Unearned as of June 30, 2023

  196,223  $21.88 

 

Any forfeitures would result in previously recognized expense being reversed. A portion of the shares that vest will be netted out to satisfy the tax obligations of the recipient. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, 70,669 shares vested. A total of 38,601 shares were netted from the vested shares to satisfy employee tax obligations. The net shares issued from vesting of deferred stock units during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 were 32,068 shares. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, compensation cost of approximately $3.1$2.6 million related to non-vested deferred stock units, not yet recognized, is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.81.7 years.

 

3738

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 9.  Components of Net Periodic Pension Cost

 

The Company maintained a non-contributory defined benefit pension plan for substantially all of its employees until June 30, 2007, at which time the Company froze the plan. The following table sets forth the net periodic pension cost of the Company’s pension plan for the periods indicated.

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Affected Line Item in the Consolidated

 

Three Months Ended

 

Affected Line Item in the Consolidated

 

March 31,

 

Statements of Income

 

June 30,

 

Statements of Income

 

2023

  

2022

   

2023

  

2022

  
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Service cost

 $-  $-   $-  $-  

Interest cost

 110  78 

Other components of net periodic pension expense

 110  78 

Other components of net periodic pension expense

Expected return on plan assets

 (209) (237)

Other components of net periodic pension expense

 (209) (237)

Other components of net periodic pension expense

Net amortization

  74   16 

Other components of net periodic pension expense

  74   16 

Other components of net periodic pension expense

Total periodic pension income

 $(25) $(143)  $(25) $(143) 

  

Six Months Ended

 

Affected Line Item in the Consolidated

  

June 30,

 

Statements of Income

  

2023

  

2022

  
  

(dollars in thousands)

  

Service cost

 $-  $-  

Interest cost

  220   156 

Other components of net periodic pension expense

Expected return on plan assets

  (419)  (474)

Other components of net periodic pension expense

Net amortization

  148   32 

Other components of net periodic pension expense

Total periodic pension income

 $(51) $(286) 

 

Contributions

 

The Company did not contribute to the Pension Trust during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023. The Company does not plan on contributing amounts to the Pension Trust for the remainder of 2023. The trust is established to provide retirement and other benefits for eligible employees and their beneficiaries. No part of the trust assets may be applied to any purpose other than providing benefits under the plan and for defraying expenses of administering the plan and the trust.

 

 

Note 10. FHLB Borrowings

 

The Company’s FHLB borrowings and weighted average interest rates are summarized below:

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

  

June 30, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

 
 

Amount

  

Rate

  

Amount

  

Rate

  

Amount

  

Rate

  

Amount

  

Rate

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

By remaining period to maturity:

  

Less than 1 year

 $825,000  5.08% $830,000  4.42% $775,001  5.35% $830,000  4.42%

1 year through less than 2 years

 - - - -  - - - - 

2 years through less than 3 years

 25,000 1.00 25,000 1.00  25,000 1.00 25,000 1.00 

3 years through less than 4 years

 2,050  2.23  2,050  2.23  2,050  2.23  2,050  2.23 

4 years through 5 years

 317 2.85 326 2.85  25,309 4.16 326 2.85 

After 5 years

  318  2.96   326  2.96   310  2.96   326  2.96 

FHLB borrowings - gross

 852,685  4.95% 857,702  4.32% 827,670  5.17% 857,702  4.32%

Fair value discount

  (74)     (80)     (69)     (80)   

Total FHLB borrowings

 $852,611     $857,622     $827,601     $857,622    

 

3839

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

 

Note 10. FHLB Borrowings (continued)  

 

The FHLB borrowings are secured by pledges of certain collateral including, but not limited to, U.S. government and agency mortgage-backed securities and a blanket assignment of qualifying first lien mortgage loans, consisting of both residential mortgages and commercial real estate loans.

 

Advances are payable at stated maturity, with a prepayment penalty for fixed rate advances. All FHLB advances bear fixed rates. The advances as of March 31,June 30, 2023 were primarily collateralized by approximately $2.1$2.8 billion of commercial mortgage loans and securities, net of required over collateralization amounts, under a blanket lien arrangement. As of March 31,June 30, 2023 the Company had remaining borrowing capacity of approximately $0.7$1.5 billion at FHLB. As of April 2023, the Company increased its collateral for advances to $2.9 billion, net of required over collateralization amounts, and increased its remaining borrowing capacity of $1.5 billion at FHLB.

 

 

Note 11. Subordinated Debentures

 

During 2003, the Company formed a statutory business trust, which exists for the exclusive purpose of (i) issuing Trust Securities representing undivided beneficial interests in the assets of the Trust; (ii) investing the gross proceeds of the Trust securities in junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures (subordinated debentures) of the Company; and (iii) engaging in only those activities necessary or incidental thereto. On December 19, 2003, Center Bancorp Statutory Trust II, a statutory business trust and wholly-owned subsidiary of the Parent Corporation issued $5.0 million of MMCapS capital securities to investors due on January 23, 2034. The capital securities presently qualify as Tier I capital. The trust loaned the proceeds of this offering to the Company and received in exchange $5.2 million of the Parent Corporation’s subordinated debentures. The subordinated debentures are redeemable in whole or in part prior to maturity. The floating interest rate on the subordinate debentures is three-month LIBOR plus 2.85% and reprices quarterly. The rate as of MarchJune 31,30, 2023 was 7.65%8.15%. Upon the cessation of publication of  LIBOR rates  and pursuant to the Federal  LIBOR Act and Federal Reserve regulations implementing the Act, applicable US Dollar LIBOR indexed instruments like the Company’s outstanding $5.0 million of MMCapS capital securities  will convert to a new index based on CME Term SOFR, as defined in the LIBOR Act, plus a tenor spread adjustment, which is referred to as the Benchmark Replacement. Effective for quarterly interest rate resets after July 3, 2023 the subordinated debentures’ floating rate will be three-month CME Term SOFR plus 2.85% plus a tenor spread adjust of 0.26161%. These subordinated debentures and the related income effects are not eliminated in the consolidated financial statements as the statutory business trust is not consolidated in accordance with FASB ASC 810-10. Distributions on the subordinated debentures owned by the subsidiary trust have been classified as interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

The following table summarizes the mandatory redeemable trust preferred securities of the Company’s Statutory Trust II as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

 

Issuance Date

 

Securities Issued

 

Liquidation Value

 

Coupon Rate

 

Maturity

 

Redeemable by Issuer Beginning

12/19/2003

 $5,000,000 

$1,000 per Capital Security

 

Floating 3-month LIBOR + 285 Basis Points

 

1/23/2034

 

1/23/2009

 

On June 10, 2020, the Parent Corporation issued $75 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes (the “2020 Notes”). The 2020 Notes bear interest at 5.75% annually from, and including, the date of initial issuance to, but excluding, June 15, 2025 or the date of earlier redemption, payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year, commencing December 15, 2020. From and including June 15, 2025 through maturity or earlier redemption, the interest rate shall reset quarterly to an interest rate per annum equal to a benchmark rate, which is expected to be Three-Month Term SOFR (as defined in the Second Supplemental Indenture), plus 560.5 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears on March 15, June 15, September 15 and December 15 of each year, commencing on September 15, 2025. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the benchmark rate is less than zero, then the benchmark rate shall be deemed to be zero.

 

On January 11, 2018, the Parent Corporation issued $75 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes (the “2018 Notes”). The 2018 Notes bore interest at a rate that resets quarterly to an interest rate per annum equal to the then current three-month LIBOR rate plus 284 basis points (2.84%) payable quarterly in arrears. Interest on the 2018 Notes was to be paid on February 1, May 1, August 1, and November 1, of each year to but excluding the stated maturity date, unless in any case previously redeemed. The 2018 Notes were redeemed in full on February 1, 2023.

 

 

 

3940

 
 

Item 2. Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The purpose of this analysis is to provide the reader with information relevant to understanding and assessing the Company’s results of operations for the periods presented herein and financial condition as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022. In order to fully understand this analysis, the reader is encouraged to review the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this report.

 

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

 

This report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Sections 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that involve inherent risks and uncertainties. This report contains certain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of ConnectOne Bancorp Inc. and its subsidiaries, including statements preceded by, followed by or that include words or phrases such as “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “trend,” “objective,” “continue,” “remain,” “pattern” or similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “might,” “can,” “may” or similar expressions. There are a number of important factors that could cause future results to differ materially from historical performance and these forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: (1) competitive pressures among depository institutions may increase significantly; (2) changes in the interest rate environment may reduce interest margins; (3) prepayment speeds, loan origination and sale volumes, charge-offs and credit loss provisions may vary substantially from period to period; (4) general economic conditions may be less favorable than expected; (5) political developments, sovereign debt problems, wars or other hostilities such as the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, may disrupt or increase volatility in securities markets or other economic conditions; (6) legislative or regulatory changes or actions may adversely affect the businesses in which ConnectOne Bancorp is engaged; (7) changes and trends in the securities markets may adversely impact ConnectOne Bancorp; (8) a delayed or incomplete resolution of regulatory issues could adversely impact planning by ConnectOne Bancorp; (9) the impact on reputation risk created by the developments discussed above on such matters as business generation and retention, funding and liquidity could be significant; (10) the outcome of regulatory and legal investigations and proceedings may not be anticipated, and (11) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our employees and operations, and those of our customers. Further information on other factors that could affect the financial results of ConnectOne Bancorp is included in Item 1a. of ConnectOne Bancorp’s Annual Report on Form 10-K as amended and updated in ConnectOne Bancorp’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These documents are available free of charge at the Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov and/or from ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Our accounting policies are integral to understanding the results reported. We consider accounting policies that require management to exercise significant judgment or discretion or to make significant assumptions that have, or could have, a material impact on the carrying value of certain assets or on income to be critical accounting policies. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, there have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies as compared to the critical accounting policies disclosed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K. Reference is made to Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.

 

4041

 

Operating Results Overview

 

Net income available to common stockholders for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 was $23.4$19.9 million compared to $29.9$30.8 million for the comparable three-month period ended March 31,June 30, 2022. The Company’s diluted earnings per share were $0.59$0.51 for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 as compared with diluted earnings per share of $0.75$0.78 for the comparable three-month period ended March 31,June 30, 2022. The $6.5$10.9 million decrease in net income available to common stockholders and $0.16$0.27 decrease in diluted earnings per share versus the three months ended March 31,second quarter of 2022 were primarily due to a $3.3$11.8 million decrease in net interest income a $0.3 million decrease in noninterest income and a $5.6$3.7 million increase in noninterest expenses, partially offset by a $4.5 million decrease in income tax expense and $0.1 million increase in noninterest income.

Net income available to common stockholders for the six months ended June 30, 2023 was $43.3 million compared to $60.7 million for the comparable six-month period ended June 30, 2022. The Company’s diluted earnings per share were $1.10 for the six months ended June 30, 2023 as compared with diluted earnings per share of $1.53 for the comparable six-month period ended June 30, 2022. The $17.4 million decrease in net income available to common stockholders and $0.43 decrease in diluted earnings per share versus the first half of 2022 were due to a $15.0 million decrease in net interest income, a $9.4 million increase in noninterest expenses, and a $0.2 million decrease in noninterest income, partially offset by a $6.7 million decrease in income tax expense and a $0.5 million decrease in provision for credit losses of $0.5 million and a $2.3 million decrease in income tax expenses.losses.

 

Net Interest Income and Margin

 

Net interest income is the difference between the interest earned on the portfolio of earning assets (principally loans and investments) and the interest paid on deposits and borrowings, which support these assets. Net interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis by adjusting tax-exempt income (including interest earned on tax-free loans and on obligations of state and local political subdivisions) by the amount of income tax which would have been paid had the assets been invested in taxable assets. Net interest margin is defined as net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis as a percentage of total average interest-earning assets.

 

Fully taxable equivalent net interest income for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 decreased by $3.0$11.5 million, or 4.3%15.1%, from the comparable three-month period ended March 31,June 30, 2022. The decrease from the three months ended March 31,second quarter of 2022 resulted primarily from a 71276 basis-point decrease of the net interest margin from 3.71% to 3.00%,increase in rate paid on interest-bearing deposits, partially offset by an90 basis increase in total interest-earning assets of $1.4 billion. Theand a 110 basis-point contraction of the net interest margin to 2.81% from 3.91%.

Fully taxable equivalent net interest income for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 when compared todecreased by $14.5 million, or 9.9%, from the three monthscomparable six-month period ended March 31,June 30, 2022. The decrease from the six-month period ended June 30, 2022 wasresulted primarily attributable tofrom a 222254 basis-point increase in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities,deposits, partially offset by 102 basis-point80 basis increase in total interest-earning assets and a 92 basis-point contraction of the yield on average interest-earning assets.net interest margin to 2.89% from 3.81%.

 

 

4142

 

The following tables, “Average Statements of Condition with Interest and Average Rates”, present for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, the Company’s average assets, liabilities and stockholders’ equity. The Company’s net interest income, net interest spread and net interest margin are also reflected.

 

Average Statements of Condition with Interest and Average Rates

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

  

Three Months Ended June 30,

 
 

2023

 

2022

  

2023

 

2022

 
   

Interest

     

Interest

      

Interest

     

Interest

   
 

Average

 

Income/

 

Average

 

Average

 

Income/

 

Average

  

Average

 

Income/

 

Average

 

Average

 

Income/

 

Average

 
 

Balance

  

Expense

  

Rate (7)

  

Balance

  

Expense

  

Rate (7)

  

Balance

  

Expense

  

Rate (7)

  

Balance

  

Expense

  

Rate (7)

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Interest-earning assets:

  

Securities (1) (2)

 $732,929  $5,620  3.11% $545,203  $2,771  2.06% $726,315  $5,607  3.10% $610,465  $3,710  2.44%

Total loans (2) (3) (4)

 8,131,035  107,348  5.35  6,871,477  76,320  4.50  8,149,374  111,501  5.49  7,008,174  81,597  4.67 

Federal funds sold and interest-bearing with banks

 260,297  2,975  4.64  312,224  120  0.16  309,458  4,056  5.26  157,201  313  0.80 

Restricted investment in bank stocks

  49,906   898  7.29   24,977   214  3.47   42,932   945  8.83   31,605   291  3.69 

Total interest-earning assets

  9,174,167   116,841  5.17   7,753,881   79,425  4.15   9,228,079   122,109  5.31   7,807,445   85,911  4.41 

Noninterest-earning assets:

  

Allowance for credit losses

 (90,182)      (79,763)      (87,473)      (81,012)     

Other noninterest-earning assets

  616,545        589,264        624,976        596,390      

Total assets

 $9,700,530       $8,263,382       $9,765,582       $8,322,823      
  

Interest-bearing liabilities:

  

Interest-bearing deposits:

  

Time deposits

 $2,357,332  17,267  2.97  $1,124,614  2,154  0.78  $2,658,673  23,778  3.59  $1,103,418  2,179  0.79 

Other interest-bearing deposits

  3,565,904   22,820  2.60   3,851,558   2,856  0.30   3,640,939   26,936  2.97   3,717,531   3,530  0.38 

Total interest-bearing deposits

 5,923,236  40,087  2.74  4,976,172  5,010  0.41  6,299,612  50,714  3.23  4,820,949  5,709  0.47 
  

Borrowings

 941,266  7,322  3.15  404,907  1,377  1.38  756,303  5,438  2.88  548,675  1,849  1.35 

Subordinated debentures

 103,638  1,579  6.18  152,977  2,168  5.75  79,104  1,306  6.62  153,053  2,179  5.71 

Finance lease

  1,714   25  5.92   1,917   28  5.92   1,658   24  5.81   1,865   28  6.02 

Total interest-bearing liabilities

 6,969,854  49,013  2.85  5,535,973  8,583  0.63  7,136,677  57,482  3.23  5,524,542  9,765  0.71 
  

Demand deposits

 1,451,654       1,547,055       1,347,268       1,607,465      

Other liabilities

  87,807        48,386        84,594        47,719      

Total noninterest-bearing liabilities

 1,539,461       1,595,441       1,431,862       1,655,184      

Stockholders’ equity

  1,191,215        1,131,968        1,197,043        1,143,097      

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 $9,700,530       $8,263,382       $9,765,582       $8,322,823      

Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)

    67,828       70,842        64,627       76,146    

Net interest spread (5)

      2.32%      3.53%      2.08%      3.70%

Net interest margin (6)

      3.00%      3.71%      2.81%      3.91%

Tax-equivalent adjustment

     (744)       (484)        (784)       (555)   

Net interest income

    $67,084       $70,358        $63,843       $75,591    

 

(1)

Average balances are based on amortized cost and include equity securities.  

(2)

Interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a 21% assumed tax rate.  

(3)

Includes loan fee income and accretion of purchase accounting adjustments.  

(4)

Total loans include loans held-for-sale and nonaccrual loans.  

(5)

Represents the difference between the average yield on interest-earning assets and the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities and is presented on a tax- equivalent basis.  

(6)

Represents net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis divided by average total interest-earning assets.  

(7)

Rates are annualized.  

 

4243

  

Six Months Ended June 30,

 
  

2023

  

2022

 
      

Interest

          

Interest

     
  

Average

  

Income/

  

Average

  

Average

  

Income/

  

Average

 
  

Balance

  

Expense

  

Rate (7)

  

Balance

  

Expense

  

Rate (7)

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Interest-earning assets:

                        

Securities (1) (2)

 $729,604  $11,219   3.08% $578,014  $6,481   2.26%

Total loans (2) (3) (4)

  8,140,255   218,856   5.39   6,940,203   157,917   4.59 

Federal funds sold and interest-bearing with banks

  285,014   7,031   4.95   234,284   433   0.37 

Restricted investment in bank stocks

  46,400   1,843   7.97   28,310   505   3.60 

Total interest-earning assets

  9,201,273   238,949   5.21   7,780,811   165,336   4.29 

Noninterest-earning assets:

                        

Allowance for credit losses

  (88,820)          (80,391)        

Other noninterest-earning assets

  620,782           592,847         

Total assets

 $9,733,235          $8,293,267         
                         

Interest-bearing liabilities:

                        

Interest-bearing deposits:

                        

Time deposits

 $2,508,835   41,045   3.28  $1,113,958   4,333   0.78 

Other interest-bearing deposits

  3,599,582   49,756   2.77   3,784,173   6,386   0.34 

Total interest-bearing deposits

  6,108,417   90,801   2.98   4,898,131   10,719   0.44 
                         

Borrowings

  848,273   12,035   2.85   477,188   3,226   1.36 

Subordinated debentures

  91,303   3,609   7.93   153,016   4,346   5.73 

Finance lease

  1,686   50   5.95   1,891   57   6.08 

Total interest-bearing liabilities

  7,049,679   106,495   3.03   5,530,226   18,348   0.67 
                         

Demand deposits

  1,403,220           1,577,427         

Other liabilities

  86,191           48,052         

Total noninterest-bearing liabilities

  1,489,411           1,625,479         

Stockholders’ equity

  1,194,145           1,137,562         

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 $9,733,235          $8,293,267         

Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)

      132,454           146,988     

Net interest spread (5)

          2.18%          3.62%

Net interest margin (6)

          2.89%          3.81%

Tax-equivalent adjustment

      (1,527)          (1,039)    

Net interest income

     $130,927          $145,949     

(1)

Average balances are based on amortized cost and include equity securities.  

(2)

Interest income is presented on a tax-equivalent basis using a 21% assumed tax rate.  

(3)

Includes loan fee income and accretion of purchase accounting adjustments.  

(4)

Total loans include loans held-for-sale and nonaccrual loans.  

(5)

Represents the difference between the average yield on interest-earning assets and the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities and is presented on a tax- equivalent basis.  

(6)

Represents net interest income on a tax-equivalent basis divided by average total interest-earning assets.  

(7)

Rates are annualized.  

44

 

Noninterest Income

 

Noninterest income totaled $2.8$3.4 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, compared with $3.1$3.3 million for the comparable three-month periodthree months ended March 31,June 30, 2022.  Included in noninterest income for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and March 31,June 30, 2022 were net losses on equity securities of $0.2 million and $0.6$0.4 million, respectively.  Excluding net losses on equity securities, adjustedthese items, noninterest income was $3.0decreased $0.1 million and $3.7 million forwhen compared to the three monthscomparable three-month period ended March 31, 2023 and March 31, 2022, respectively.June 30, 2022.  The $0.7 million decrease in adjusted noninterest income for the three months ended March 31, 2023 versus the three months ended March 31, 2022 was primarily dueattributable to decreases in net gains on sale of loans held-for-sale of $0.7 million and deposit, loan and other income of $0.3 million and partially offset by an increase in bank owned life insurance ("BOLI") of $0.2 million.

Noninterest income totaled $6.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, compared with $6.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022. Included in noninterest income were net losses on equity securities of $0.4 million and $1.0 million for the  six months ended June 30, 2023 and six months ended June 2022, respectively. Excluding the aforementioned items, noninterest income was $6.6 million and $7.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The $0.8 million decrease in noninterest income excluding the items discussed above for the six months ended June 30, 2023 versus the comparable six-month period ended June 30, 2022 was primarily due to decreases in deposit, loan and other income of $0.3$0.7 million and a decrease in net gains on sale of loans held-for-sale of $0.6 million, partially offset by an increase in BOLI of $0.5 million.

 

Noninterest Expenses

 

Noninterest expenses totaled $34.9$35.4 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, compared with $29.2$31.7 million for the three monthscomparable three-month period ended March 31, 2022.The increase in noninterest expenses of $5.6June 30, 2022. Noninterest expense increased by $3.7 million from the three months ended March 31, 2022which was primarily attributable to increases in salaries and employee benefits of $3.5$2.1 million attributable to new hires, increases in FDIC insurance expense of $1.0 million, information technology and communication expenses of $0.8 million, other expenses of $0.8 million, occupancy and equipment of $0.8 million, professional and consulting of $0.4 million, FDIC insurance of $0.3 million, information technology and communications of $0.2$0.7 million, marketing and advertising expenses of $0.2$0.1 million and amortizationsother components of core deposit intangiblenet periodic pension expense of $0.1 million, partially offset by a decreasedecreases in BoeFly acquisition expense of $1.5 million, professional and consulting expenses relatedof $0.2 million and amortization of core deposit intangibles expense of $0.1 million.

Noninterest expenses totaled $70.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, compared to BoeFly of $0.7 million. The increase$60.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022. Noninterest expenses increased by $9.4 million and was primarily attributable to increases in salaries and employee benefits wasof $5.6 million attributable to increased staffnew hires in both the revenue and back-office areas of the Bank and seasonalBank. Also, contributing to the increase were increases in payroll taxes.other expenses of $1.6 million, FDIC insurance expense of $1.3 million, information technology and communications expense of $1.0 million, occupancy and equipment expense of $0.8 million,  marketing and advertising expense of $0.3 million, professional and consulting expense of $0.2 million, other components of net periodic pension expense of $0.2 million, partially offset by decreases BoeFly acquisition expense of $1.5 million, and amortization of core deposit intangibles of $0.1 million.

 

Income Taxes

 

Income tax expense was $9.1$7.4 million for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, compared to $11.4$11.9 million for the three monthscomparable three-month period ended March 31,June 30, 2022.  The decrease in income tax expense was the result of lower income before taxes. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and March 31,June 30, 2022 was 26.7%25.8% and 26.6%26.9%, respectively. The decrease in the effective tax rate when compared to the three months ended June 30, 2022 is largely attributable to lower taxable income.

Income tax expense was $16.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, compared to $23.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022. The effective tax rate for the three months ended June 30, 2023 and June 30, 2022 was 26.3% and 26.7%, respectively. The effective tax rate for the first six months ended of 2023 was lower compared to the first six months of June 30, 2022 due to different proportions of income from non-taxable sources.

 

4345

 

Financial Condition

 

Loan Portfolio

 

The following table sets forth the composition of our loan portfolio, excluding loans held-for-sale and unearned net origination fees and costs, by loan segment at the periods indicated.

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

  

Amount Increase/

  

June 30, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

  

Amount Increase/

 
 

Amount

  

%

  

Amount

  

%

  

(Decrease)

  

Amount

  

%

  

Amount

  

%

  

(Decrease)

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Commercial

 $1,414,226  17.3% $1,472,734  18.2% $(58,508) $1,472,795  18.1% $1,472,734  18.2% $61 

Commercial real estate

 5,835,880  71.7  5,795,228  71.4  40,652  5,831,382  71.5  5,795,228  71.5  36,154 

Commercial construction

 630,469  7.7  574,139  7.1  56,330  596,219  7.3  574,139  7.1  22,080 

Residential real estate

 259,166  3.2  264,748  3.2  (5,582) 254,405  3.1  264,748  3.3  (10,343)

Consumer

  1,435   0.1   2,312   0.1   (877)  1,416   -   2,312   -   (896)

Gross loans

 $8,141,176   100.0% $8,109,161   100.0% $32,015  $8,156,217   100.0% $8,109,161   100.0% $47,056 

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, gross loans totaled $8.1$8.2 billion, an increase of $32.0$47.1  million or 0.4%0.6%, as compared to December 31, 2022. Net loan growth was attributable to organic loan originations.

 

Allowance for Credit Losses and Related Provision

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the Company’s allowance for credit losses for loans was $87.0$89.2 million, a decrease of $3.5$1.3 million from $90.5 million as of December 31, 2022. The decrease was primarily attributable to $4.5$5.5 million in net charge-offs, offset by a $1.0$4.2 million provision for credit losses.

 

The provision for credit losses, which includes provision for unfunded commitments, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2023 was $1.0$3.0 million and $4.0 million, respectively, compared to $3.0 million and $4.5 million, for the three and six months ended March 31, 2023 and $1.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022.  The provision for credit losses during the three months ended March 31, 2023 reflects modest loan growth and an increase in qualitative factors.June 30, 2022, respectively.

 

There were $4.5$1.0 million net charge-offs for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared with $0.2and $5.5 million in net charge-offs for the three months and six months ended March 31, 2022.  TheJune 30, 2023, compared with $0.3 million and $0.5 million in net charge-offs for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, respectively. The increase in net charge-offs for the three and six months ended June 30, 2023 reflectwhen compared to the comparable prior period resulted from the resolution of certain nonaccrual taxi loans and one owner-occupied commercial real estate loan that were previously reserved for and, therefore, required no additional loan loss provisioning.  The ACL as a percentage of loans receivable amounted to 1.07%1.09% as of March 31,June 30, 2023 andcompared to 1.12% as of December 31, 2022.

 

The level of the allowance for the respective periods of 2023 and 2022 reflects the credit quality within the loan portfolio, loan growth, the changing composition of the commercial and residential real estate loan portfolios and other related factors. In management’s view, the level of the ACL as of March 31,June 30, 2023 is adequate to cover credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio. Management’s judgment regarding the adequacy of the allowance constitutes a “Forward-Looking Statement” under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ materially from management’s analysis, based principally upon the factors considered by management in establishing the allowance.

 

4446

 

Changes in the ACL on loans are presented in the following table for the periods indicated.

 

 

Three Months Ended

  

Three Months Ended

 
 

March 31,

  

June 30,

 
 

2023

 

2022

  

2023

 

2022

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Average loans receivable

 $8,117,572  $6,871,095  $8,140,859  $7,007,207 

Analysis of the ACL:

  

Balance - beginning of quarter

 $90,513  $78,773  $87,002  $80,070 

Charge-offs:

  

Commercial

 (2,767) (274) (1,100) (292)

Commercial real estate

 (1,716) -  - (1)

Residential real estate

 (18) (9)

Total charge-offs

  (4,483)  (274)  (1,118)  (302)

Recoveries:

  

Commercial

 -  1  9  - 

Residential real estate

 67 4 

Consumer

 1  31  -  28 

Total recoveries

  1   32   76   32 

Net charge-offs

 (4,482) (242) (1,042) (270)

Provision for credit losses - loans

  1,000   1,539   3,245   2,939 

Balance - end of period

 $87,031  $80,070  $89,205  $82,739 
  

Ratio of annualized net charge-offs during the period to average loans receivable during the period

 0.22% 0.01% 0.05% 0.02%

Loans receivable

 $8,132,119  $6,979,595  $8,148,540  $7,274,573 

ACL as a percentage of loans receivable

 1.07% 1.15% 1.09% 1.14%

  

Six Months Ended

 
  

June 30,

 
  

2023

  

2022

 
  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Average loans receivable

 $8,129,280  $6,939,527 

Analysis of the ACL:

        

Balance - beginning of quarter

 $90,513  $78,773 

Charge-offs:

        

Commercial

  (3,867)  (341)

Commercial real estate

  (1,717)  (226)

Residential real estate

  (18)  (9)

Consumer

  -   - 

Total charge-offs

  (5,602)  (576)

Recoveries:

        

Commercial

  9   1 

Residential real estate

  68   63 

Total recoveries

  77   64 

Net charge-offs

  (5,525)  (512)

Provision for credit losses - loans

  4,217   4,478 

Balance - end of period

 $89,205  $82,739 
         

Ratio of annualized net charge-offs during the period to average loans receivable during the period

  0.14%  0.01%

Loans receivable

 $8,148,540  $7,274,573 

ACL as a percentage of loans receivable

  1.09%  1.14%

 

4547

 

Asset Quality

 

The Company manages asset quality and credit risk by maintaining diversification in its loan portfolio and through a review processes that includes analysis of credit requests and ongoing examination of outstanding loans, delinquencies, and potential problem loans, with particular attention to portfolio dynamics and mix. The Company strives to identify loans experiencing difficulty early on, to record charge-offs promptly based on realistic assessments of current collateral values and cash flows, and to maintain an adequate allowance for credit losses at all times.

 

It is generally the Company’s policy to discontinue interest accruals once a loan is past due as to interest or principal payments for a period of ninety days. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, interest accruals cease and uncollected accrued interest is reversed and charged against current income. Payments received on nonaccrual loans are generally applied against principal. A loan may be restored to an accruing basis when all past due amounts have been collected. Loans past due 90 days or more which are both well-secured and in the process of collection may remain on an accrual basis.

 

Nonperforming assets include nonaccrual loans and other real estate owned. Nonaccrual loans represent loans ofon which interest accruals have been suspended. In general, it is the policy of management to consider the charge-off of uncollectible amounts of loans at the point they become past due 90 days.

 

The following table sets forth, as of the dates indicated, the amount of the Company’s nonperforming assets:

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

  

June 30, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Nonaccrual loans

 $47,667  $44,454  $51,496  $44,454 

OREO

  -   264   -   264 

Total nonperforming assets (1)

 $47,667  $44,718  $51,496  $44,718 
  

 

(1)

Nonperforming assets are defined as nonaccrual loans and OREO.

 

Nonaccrual loans to total loans receivable

 0.59% 0.55% 0.63% 0.55%

Nonperforming assets to total assets

 0.48% 0.46% 0.53% 0.46%

 

4648

 

Investment Securities

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the principal components of the securities portfolio were federal agency obligations, mortgage-backed securities, obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions, corporate bonds and notes, asset-backed securities and equity securities. For the three-months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, average securities, decreased $11.0on an amortized cost basis, increased by $115.6 million to approximately $732.9$726.3 million, or 8.0%7.9% of average total interest-earning assets, from approximately $743.9$610.5 million, or 8.3%7.8% of average interest-earning assets, at December 31,as of June 30, 2022.

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, net unrealized losses on securities available-for-sale, which are carried as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss and included in stockholders’ equity, net of tax, amounted to $57.3$64.6 million as compared with net unrealized losses of $61.8 million as of December 31, 2022. The decreaseincrease in unrealized losses is predominately attributable to changes in market conditions and interest rates. Unrealized losses have not been recognized into income because the issuers are of high credit quality, we do not intend to sell, and it is likely that we will not be required to sell the securities prior to their anticipated recovery.  The decline in fair value is largely due to changes in interest rates and other market conditions. The issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments on the securities. Any impairment that has not been recorded through an allowance for credit losses is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. The Company did not record an allowance for credit losses for available-for-sale as of March 31,June 30, 2023.

 

Interest Rate Sensitivity Analysis

 

The principal objective of our asset and liability management function is to evaluate the interest-rate risk included in certain balance sheet accounts; determine the level of risk appropriate given our business focus, operating environment, and capital and liquidity requirements; establish prudent asset concentration guidelines; and manage the risk consistent with Board approved guidelines. We seek to reduce the vulnerability of our operations to changes in interest rates, and actions in this regard are taken under the guidance of the Bank’s Asset Liability Committee (the “ALCO”). The ALCO generally reviews our liquidity, cash flow needs, maturities of investments, deposits and borrowings, and current market conditions and interest rates.

 

The Company utilizes a number of strategies to manage interest rate risk including, but not limited to: (i) balancing the types and structures of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities by diversifying mix, coupons, maturities and/or repricing characteristics (ii) reducing the overall interest rate sensitivity of liabilities by emphasizing core and/or longer-term deposits; utilizing FHLB advances and wholesale deposits for our interest rate risk profile, (iii) managing the investment portfolio for liquidity and interest rate risk profile, and (iv) entering into interest rate swap and cap agreements.

 

We currently utilize net interest income simulation and economic value of equity (“EVE”) models to measure the potential impact to the Bank of future changes in interest rates. As of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the results of the models were within guidelines prescribed by our Board of Directors. If model results were to fall outside prescribed ranges, action, including additional monitoring and reporting to the Board, would be required by the ALCO and the Bank’s management.

 

The net interest income simulation model attempts to measure the change in net interest income over the next one-year period, and over the next three-year period on a cumulative basis, assuming certain changes in the general level of interest rates.

 

Based on our model, which was run as of March 31,June 30, 2023, we estimated that over the next one-year period a 200 basis-point instantaneous increase in the general level of interest rates would decrease our net interest income by 0.63%1.87%, while a 100 basis-point instantaneous decrease in interest rates would decrease net interest income by 2.79%1.75%. As of December 31, 2022, we estimated that over the next one-year period a 200 basis-point instantaneous increase in the general level of interest rates would decrease our net interest income by 2.22%, while a 100 basis-point instantaneous decrease in interest rates would decrease net interest income by 2.01%.

 

Based on our model, which was run as of March 31,June 30, 2023, we estimated that over the next three years, on a cumulative basis, a 200 basis-point instantaneous increase in the general level of interest rates would decrease our net interest income by 3.11%1.91%, while a 100 basis-point instantaneous decrease in interest rates would decrease net interest income by 3.01%4.08%. As of December 31, 2022, we estimated that over the next three years, on a cumulative basis, a 200 basis-point instantaneous increase in the general level of interest rates would decrease our net interest income by 2.66%, while a 100 basis-point instantaneous decrease in interest rates would decrease net interest income by 3.99%.

 

4749

 

An EVE analysis is also used to dynamically model the present value of asset and liability cash flows with instantaneous rate shocks of up 200 basis points and down 100 basis points. The economic value of equity is likely to be different as interest rates change. Our EVE as of March 31,June 30, 2023, would decrease by 12.16%12.72% with an instantaneous rate shock of up 200 basis points, and declineincrease by 0.49%0.04% with an instantaneous rate shock of down 100 basis points.  Our EVE as of December 31, 2022, would decrease by 10.51% with an instantaneous rate shock of up 200 basis points, and decrease by 1.13% with an instantaneous rate shock of down 100 basis points.basis-points.

 

The change in interest rate sensitivity was impacted by an increases in our cash on hand position and in short and intermediate-term fixed rate funding, partially offset by the deposit mix shift into certificates of deposit, from both noninterest-bearing and interest-bearing nonmaturitynon-maturity deposits.

 

The following table illustrates the most recent results for EVE and one-year NII sensitivity as of March 31,June 30, 2023.

 

Interest Rates

  

Estimated

  

Estimated Change in EVE

  

Interest Rates

  

Estimated

  

Estimated Change in NII

   

Estimated

  

Estimated Change in EVE

  

Interest Rates

  

Estimated

  

Estimated Change in NII

 

(basis points)

  

EVE

  

Amount

  

%

  

(basis points)

  

NII

  

Amount

  

%

   

EVE

  

Amount

  

%

  

(basis points)

  

NII

  

Amount

  

%

 
+300  $1,012,527  (212,442) (17.34) +300  $268,853  $(605) (0.22)  $1,020,843  (222,517) (17.90) +300  $243,312  $(6,095) (2.44)
+200  1,076,038  (148,931) (12.16) +200  267,757  (1,701) (0.63)  1,085,201  (158,159) (12.72) +200  244,744  (4,663) (1.87)
+100  1,142,074  (82,895) (6.77) +100  266,795  (2,663) (0.99)  1,153,040  (90,320) (7.26) +100  246,111  (3,296) (1.32)
0  1,224,969  -  -  0  269,458  -  -   1,243,360  -  -  0  249,407  -  - 
-100  1,218,995  (5,974) (0.49) -100  261,947  (7,511) (2.79)  1,243,913  553  0.04  -100  245,050  (4,357) (1.75)
-200 1,199,347 (25,622) (2.09) -200 252,496 (16,962) (6.29) 1,232,240 (11,120) (0.89) -200 238,314 (11,093) (4.45)
-300 1,170,922 (54,047) (4.41) -300 244,526 (24,932) (9.25) 1,212,049 (31,311) (2.52) -300 232,321 (17,086) (6.85)

 

Certain model limitations are inherent in the methodology used in the EVE and net interest income measurements. The models require the making of certain assumptions which may tend to oversimplify the way actual yields and costs respond to changes in market interest rates. The models assume that the composition of the Company’s interest sensitive assets and liabilities existing at the beginning of a period remain constant over the period being measured, thus they do not consider the Company’s strategic plans, or any other steps it may take to respond to changes in rates over the forecasted period of time. Additionally, the models assume immediate changes in interest rates, based on yield curves as of a point-in-time, which are reflected in a parallel, instantaneous and uniform manner across all yield curves, when in reality changes may rarely be of this nature. The models also utilize data derived from historical performance and as interest rates change the actual performance of loan prepayments, rate sensitivities, and average life assumptions may deviate from assumptions utilized in the models and can impact the results. Accordingly, although the above measurements provide an indication of the Company’s interest rate risk exposure at a particular point in time, such measurements are not intended to provide a precise forecast of the effect of changes in market interest rates. Given the unique nature of the post-pandemic interest rate environment and the speed with which interest rates have been changing, the projections noted above on the Company’s EVE and net interest income and can be expected to differ from actual results.

 

Estimates of Fair Value

 

The estimation of fair value is significant to a number of the Company’s assets, including loans held-for-sale and securities available-for-sale. These are all recorded at either fair value or the lower of cost or fair value. Fair values are volatile and may be influenced by a number of factors. Circumstances that could cause estimates of the fair value of certain assets and liabilities to change include a change in prepayment speeds, discount rates, or market interest rates. Fair values for most available-for-sale securities are based on quoted market prices. If quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on judgments regarding future expected loss experience, current economic condition risk characteristics of various financial instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature, involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

 

Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices

 

The consolidated financial statements and notes thereto presented elsewhere herein have been prepared in accordance with GAAP, which requires the measurement of financial position and operating results in terms of historical dollars without considering the change in the relative purchasing power of money over time due to inflation. The impact of inflation is reflected in the increased cost of operations; unlike most industrial companies, nearly all of the Company’s assets and liabilities are monetary. As a result, interest rates have a greater impact on performance than do the effects of general levels of inflation. Interest rates do not necessarily move in the same direction or to the same extent as the prices of goods and services.

 

4850

 

Liquidity

 

Liquidity is a measure of a bank’s ability to fund loans, withdrawals or maturities of deposits, and other cash outflows in a cost-effective manner. Our principal sources of funds are deposits, scheduled amortization and prepayments of loan principal, maturities of investment securities, and funds provided by operations. While scheduled loan payments and maturing investments are relatively predictable sources of funds, deposit flow and loan prepayments are greatly influenced by general interest rates, economic conditions and competition.

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the amount of liquid assets remained at a level management deemed adequate to ensure that, on a short and long-term basis, contractual liabilities, depositors’ withdrawal requirements, and other operational and client credit needs could be satisfied. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, liquid assets (cash and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits with banks and unencumbered investment securities) were $827.7$591.8 million, which represented 8.1%6.1% of total assets and 9.6%7.1% of total deposits and borrowings, compared to $760.0 million as of December 31, 2022, which represented 7.9% of total assets and 9.3% of total deposits and borrowings. As of June 30, 2023, not included in the above liquid assets were securities with a market value of $249.5 million which were pledged to either the Federal Reserve Bank’s Bank Term Funding Program (“BTFP”), or the Federal Home Loan Bank, which carry aggregate unutilized borrowing capacity of $272.9 million as of June 30, 2023.

 

The Bank is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York and, based on available qualified collateral as of March 31,June 30, 2023, had the ability to borrow $2.1$2.9 billion. The Bank also has atwo credit facilityfacilities established with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York for direct discount window borrowings withand BTFP capacity based on pledged collateral of $73.7 million.had the ability to borrow $1.3 billion. In addition, as of March 31,June 30, 2023, the Bank had in place borrowing capacity of $410$390 million through correspondent banks and other unsecured borrowing lines. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the Bank had aggregate available and unused credit of approximately $1.2$3.3 billion, which represents the aforementioned facilities totaling $2.6$4.6 billion net of $1.4 billion in outstanding borrowings and letters of credit. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, outstanding commitments for the Bank to extend credit were approximately $1.2 billion.

 

During April 2023 the Bank increased its availability at both the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, by a total of approximately $2.0 billion, primarily through the additional pledging of previously unencumbered and unpledged loans. The Bank’s access to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, for both discount window and BTF access, was increased to $1.2 billion, from $0.1 billion as of March 31, 2023, primarily reflecting loans now pledged with unpaid principal balances of approximately $1.4 billion. The Bank’s access to the Federal Home Loan Bank was increased to $2.9 billion, from $2.1 billion as of March 31, 2023, primarily reflecting increased loans pledged with unpaid principal balances of approximately $1.2 billion.

Cash and cash equivalents totaled $562.4$319.9 million as of March 31,June 30, 2023, increasing by $294.1$51.6 million from $268.3 million as of December 31, 2022.  Operating activities provided $16.4$37.6 million in net cash.  Investing activities used $26.6$36.3 million in net cash, primarily reflecting an increase in loans and investment securities.  Financing activities provided $304.3$50.3 million in net cash, primarily reflecting an increase in FHLB advances of $1.4 billion and deposits of $396.7$181.9 million and partially offset by repayment of subordinated debtborrowings of $75.0 million.$1.4 billion.

 

4951

 

Deposits

 

Total deposits increased by $396.6$181.7 million, or 5.4%2.5%, to $7.8$7.5 billion as of March 31,June 30, 2023 from December 31, 2022. The increase was primarily due to increases in time deposits and interest-bearing and NOW deposits partially offset by a decrease in demand, noninterest-bearing deposits and savings deposits. The following table sets forth the composition of our deposit base by the periods indicated.

 

         

Amount

          

Amount

 
 

March 31, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

  

Increase/

  

June 30, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

  

Increase/

 
 

Amount

  

%

  

Amount

  

%

  

(Decrease)

  

Amount

  

%

  

Amount

  

%

  

(Decrease)

 
 

(dollars in thousands)

  

(dollars in thousands)

 

Demand, noninterest-bearing

 $1,345,265  17.4% $1,501,614  20.4% $(156,349) $1,356,293  18.0% $1,501,614  20.4% $(145,321)

Demand, interest-bearing and NOW

 3,328,582  42.9  3,085,613  41.9  242,969  3,203,160  42.5  3,085,613  41.9  117,547 

Savings

 372,667  4.8  375,205  5.1  (2,538) 357,696  4.7  375,205  5.1  (17,509)

Time

  2,706,662   34.9   2,394,190   32.6   312,472   2,621,148   34.8   2,394,190   32.6   226,958 

Total deposits

 $7,753,176   100.0% $7,356,622   100.0% $396,554  $7,538,297   100.0% $7,356,622   100.0% $181,675 

 

Subordinated Debentures

 

During December 2003, Center Bancorp Statutory Trust II, a statutory business trust and wholly owned subsidiary of the Parent Corporation issued $5.0 million of MMCapS capital securities to investors due on January 23, 2034. The trust loaned the proceeds of this offering to the Company and received in exchange $5.2 million of the Parent Corporation’s subordinated debentures. The subordinated debentures are redeemable in whole or part. The floating interest rate on the subordinated debentures is three-month LIBOR plus 2.85% and re-prices quarterly. The rate as of March 31,June 30, 2023 was 7.65%8.15%. Upon the cessation of publication of  LIBOR rates  and pursuant to the Federal  LIBOR Act and Federal Reserve regulations implementing the Act, applicable US Dollar LIBOR indexed instruments like the Company’s outstanding $5.0 million of MMCapS capital securities  will convert to a new index based on CME Term SOFR, as defined in the LIBOR Act, plus a tenor spread adjustment, which is referred to as the Benchmark Replacement. Effective for quarterly interest rate resets after July 3, 2023 the subordinated debentures’ floating rate will be three-month CME Term SOFR plus 2.85% plus a tenor spread adjust of 0.26161%. Had the interest rate contractually reset on June 30, 2023, the three-month term CME Term SOFR would have been 5.27%, and, based upon the benchmark replacement interest rate formula, that would compute an interest rate of 8.38%.

 

During June 2020, the Parent Corporation issued $75 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes (the “2020 Notes”). The 2020 Notes bear interest at 5.75% annually from, and including, the date of initial issuance to, but excluding, September 15, 2025 or the date of earlier redemption, payable semi-annually in arrears on September 15 and December 15 of each year, commencing December 15, 2020. From and including September 15, 2025 through maturity or earlier redemption, the interest rate shall reset quarterly to an interest rate per annum equal to a benchmark rate, which is expected to be Three-Month Term SOFR (as defined in the Second Supplemental Indenture), plus 560.5 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears on March 15, June 15, September 15 and December 15 of each year, commencing on September 15, 2025. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the benchmark rate is less than zero, then the benchmark rate shall be deemed to be zero.

 

During January 2018, the Parent Corporation issued $75 million in aggregate principal amount of fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes (the “Notes”) to certain accredited investors. The net proceeds from the sale of the Notes were used in the first quarter of 2018 for general corporate purposes, which included the Parent Corporation contributing $65 million of the net proceeds to the Bank in the form of debt and common equity. The Notes were non-callable for five years, had a stated maturity of February 1, 2028 and bore interest at a rate that reset quarterly to thenthe current three-month LIBOR rate plus 284 basis points.  The 2018 Notes were redeemed in full on February 1, 2023.

 

5052

 

Stockholders Equity

 

The Company’s stockholders’ equity was $1.2 billion as of March 31,June 30, 2023, an increase of $12.2$20.6 million from December 31, 2022. The increase in stockholders’ equity was primarily attributable to retained earnings, in addition to an increase in additional paid-in capital, partially offset by a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income, reflecting the after-tax decline in the fair value of investment securities net of unrealized hedge gains recorded in other assets, and an increase in treasury stock. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the Company’s tangible common equity ratio and tangible book value per share were 8.87%9.19% and $22.07,$22.34, respectively. As of December 31, 2022, the tangible common equity ratio and tangible book value per share were 9.04% and $21.71, respectively. Total goodwill and other intangible assets were approximately $215.3$214.9 million and $215.7 million, as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively.  

 

The following table shows the reconciliation of common equity to tangible common equity and the tangible common equity ratio.

 

 

March 31, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

  

June 30, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

 
 

(dollars in thousands, except for share and per share data)

  

(dollars in thousands, except for share and per share data)

 

Common equity

 $1,080,043  $1,067,824  $1,088,470  $1,067,824 

Less: intangible assets

  (215,312)  (215,684)  (214,941)  (215,684)

Tangible common stockholders’ equity

 $864,731  $852,140  $873,529  $852,140 
  

Total assets

 $9,960,467  $9,644,948  $9,723,963  $9,644,948 

Less: intangible assets

  (215,312)  (215,684)  (214,941)  (215,684)

Tangible assets

 $9,745,155  $9,429,264  $9,509,022  $9,429,264 
  

Common stock outstanding at period end

 39,179,051  39,568,090  38,936,652  39,243,123 
  

Tangible common equity ratio (1)

 8.87% 9.04% 9.19% 9.04%
  

Book value per common share

 $27.57  $27.21  $27.95  $27.21 

Less: intangible assets

  5.50   5.50   5.52   5.50 

Tangible book value per common share

 $22.07  $21.71  $22.43  $21.71 

 

(1)

Tangible common equity ratio is a non-GAAP measure.

 

5153

 

Regulatory Capital and Capital Adequacy

 

The maintenance of a solid capital foundation is a primary goal for the Company. Accordingly, capital plans, stock repurchases and dividend policies are monitored on an ongoing basis. The Company’s objective with respect to the capital planning process is to effectively balance the retention of capital to support future growth with the goal of providing stockholders with an attractive long-term return on their investment.

 

The Company and the Bank are subject to regulatory guidelines establishing minimum capital standards that involve quantitative measures of assets, and certain off-balance sheet items, as risk-adjusted assets under regulatory accounting practices.

 

The following is a summary of regulatory capital amounts and ratios as of March 31,June 30, 2023 for the Company and the Bank, compared with minimum capital adequacy requirements and the regulatory requirements for classification as a well-capitalized depository institution (for the Bank).

 

 

ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc.

 For Capital Adequacy Purposes To Be Well-Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions  

ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc.

 For Capital Adequacy Purposes To Be Well-Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions 

The Company

 

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

 

As of March 31, 2023

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

As of June 30, 2023

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Tier 1 leverage capital

 $1,014,519  10.60% $382,730  4.00%  NA  NA  $1,023,292  10.62% $385,355  4.00%  NA  NA 

CET I risk-based ratio

 898,437  10.55  383,258  4.50  NA  NA  907,210  10.55  386,956  4.50  NA  NA 

Tier 1 risk-based capital

 1,014,519  11.91  511,011  6.00  NA  NA  1,023,292  11.90  515,941  6.00  NA  NA 

Total risk-based capital

 1,178,852  13.84  681,348  8.00  NA  NA  1,189,670  13.83  687,921  8.00  NA  NA 

 

N/A - not applicable

 

 

ConnectOne Bank

  For Capital Adequacy Purposes  To Be Well-Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions  

ConnectOne Bank

  For Capital Adequacy Purposes  To Be Well-Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions 

The Bank

 

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

  

Amount

  

Ratio

 

As of March 31, 2023

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

As of June 30, 2023

 

(dollars in thousands)

 

Tier 1 leverage capital

 $1,015,381  10.62% $382,549  4.00% 478,186  5.00% $1,054,606  10.95% $385,141  4.00% 481,426  5.00%

CET I risk-based ratio

 1,015,381  11.92  383,251  4.50  553,585  6.50  1,054,606  12.26  386,949  4.50  558,926  6.50 

Tier 1 risk-based capital

 1,015,381  11.92  511,002  6.00  681,355  8.00  1,054,606  12.26  515,931  6.00  687,909  8.00 

Total risk-based capital

 1,130,514  13.27  681,335  8.00  851,669  10.00  1,145,984  13.33  687,909  8.00  859,886  10.00 

 

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, both the Company and Bank satisfy the capital conservation buffer requirements applicable to them. The lowest ratio at the Company is the Total Risk Based Capital Ratio which was 3.34% above the minimum buffer ratio and, at the Bank, the lowest ratio was the Total Risk Based Capital Ratio which was 2.77%2.83% above the minimum buffer ratio.

 

5254

 

Item 3. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures about Market Risks

 

Market Risk

 

Interest rate risk management is our primary market risk.  See “Item 2- Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Interest Rate Sensitivity Analysis” herein for a discussion of our management of our interest rate risk.

 

5355

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

a) Disclosure controls and procedures. As of the end of the Company’s most recently completed fiscal quarter covered by this report, the Company carried out an evaluation, with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-15. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and are operating in an effective manner and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

b) Changes in internal controls over financial reporting. There have been no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the Company’s last fiscal quarter to which this report relates that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

5456

 

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is not subject to any legal proceedings, which could have a materially adverse impact on its results of operations and financial condition.

 

Item 1a. Risk Factors

 

There have been no material changes to the risks inherent in our business from those described under Item 1A – Risk Factors of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, with the exception of:

 

Risks Related to Recent Events Impacting the Financial Services Industry:

 

Recent events impacting the financial services industry, including the failures of Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank and First Republic Bank, have resulted in increased volatility and reduced valuations of equity and other securities of banks in the capital markets. In addition, the Federal Reserve, in order to combat inflation, has employed quantitative tightening in order to reduce the size of its balance sheet, resulting in increased competition and costs for bank deposits and an increased risk of an economic recession. These recent events have, and could continue to, increase competition for deposits and adversely impact the market price and volatility of the Company’s common stock.

 

These recent events may also result in potentially adverse changes to laws or regulations governing banks and bank holding companies or result in the impositions of restrictions through supervisory or enforcement activities, including higher capital requirements, which could have a material impact on our business. We may be impacted by concerns regarding the soundness or creditworthiness of other financial institutions, which can cause substantial disruption within the financial markets and increased expenses. The cost of resolving the recent bank failures may prompt the FDIC to increase its premiums above the recently increased levels or to issue additional special assessments.

 

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Share Repurchase Program

 

Historically, repurchases have been made from time to time as, in the opinion of management, market conditions warranted, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. During the quarter ended March 31,June 30, 2023, the Company repurchased a total of 205,163270,000 shares. As of  March 31,June 30, 2023, shares remaining for repurchase under the program were 1,622,477.1,342,477.

 

The following table details share repurchases for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023:

 

                
               
              
              
             
  

Total Number of Shares Purchased

  

Average Price Paid per Share

  

Cumulative Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs

  

Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs

 

January 1, 2023 - January 31, 2023

  -  $-   -   1,827,640 

February 1, 2023 - February 28, 2023

  98,063   24.00   98,063   1,729,577 

March 1, 2023 - March 31, 2023

  107,100   22.47   205,163   1,622,477 
  

Total Number of Shares Purchased

  

Average Price Paid per Share

  

Cumulative Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs

  

Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs

 

April 1, 2023 - April 30, 2023

  -   0.00   -   1,612,477 

May 1, 2023 - May 31, 2023

  150,000   14.19   150,000   1,462,477 

June 1, 2023 - June 30, 2023

  120,000   16.66   270,000   1,342,477 

 

 

5557

 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

Not applicable

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not applicable

 

Item 5 Other Information

 

Not applicable

 

5658

 

Item 6. Exhibits

 

Exhibit No.

 

Description

 

  

31.1

 

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

31.2

 

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

32.1

 

Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of the Parent Corporation Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2

 

Certification of the Chief Financial Officer of the Parent Corporation Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

101.INS

 

Inline XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

101.CAL

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

101.DEF

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

101.LAB

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

101.PRE

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

104

 

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101).

 

5759

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf, by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

CONNECTONE BANCORP, INC.

(Registrant)

 

By:

/s/ Frank Sorrentino III

 

By:

/s/ William S. Burns

 

Frank Sorrentino III

  

William S. Burns

 

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

  

Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

     
 

Date: May 5,August 4, 2023

  

Date: May 5,August 4, 2023

 

5860