Form 10-QSB

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-QSB

 

(Mark One)

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

 

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2003

 

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

 

For the transition period from                 to                 

 

Commission file number: 0-25465

 


 

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC./CT

(Exact Name of small business issuer as specified in its charter)

 

Connecticut   06-1524044

(State or other jurisdiction

of incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

 

550 Summer St., Stamford, Connecticut 06901

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(203) 356-0111

(Issuer’s telephone number)

 


 

Check whether the issuer (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the past 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  x  No  ¨

 

The number of shares outstanding of the issuer’s common stock as of October 29, 2003 was 1,237,674.

 

Transitional Small Business Disclosure Format (check one): Yes  ¨  No  x

 



TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I—Financial Information

 

         PAGE

Item 1.   Financial Statements (Unaudited)     
    Consolidated Statements of Condition September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002    1
    Consolidated Statements of Income Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002    2
    Consolidated Statements of Income Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002    3
    Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002    4
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002    5
    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements    6 - 8
Item 2.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis or Plan of Operation    9 - 22
Item 3.   Controls and Procedures    22

PART II – Other Information

    
Item 1.   Legal Proceedings    None
Item 2.   Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds    None
Item 3.   Defaults upon Senior Securities    None
Item 4.   Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holder    None
Item 5.   Other Information    None
Item 6.   Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K    23
Signatures    24


PART I—Financial Information

 

Item 1.   Financial Statements

 

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONDITION

(In thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

     September 30,
2003


   

December 31,

2002


 

Assets

                

Cash and cash equivalents:

                

Cash and due from banks

   $ 9,823     $ 11,304  

Federal funds sold

     51,500       22,900  
    


 


Total cash and cash equivalents

     61,323       34,204  
    


 


Securities, including collateral of $5,728 at September 30, 2003 and $5,815 at December 31, 2002 for borrowings under securities repurchase agreements:

                

Available for sale, at fair value

     11,262       11,392  

Held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $26,684 at September 30, 2003 and $27,811 at December 31, 2002

     25,961       26,758  
    


 


Total securities

     37,223       38,150  
    


 


                  

Loans held for sale

     2,533       7,244  

Loans, net of allowance for loan losses of $2,430 at September 30, 2003 and $2,234 at December 31, 2002

     114,030       121,475  

Accrued interest receivable

     910       1,081  

Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost

     613       521  

Premises and equipment, net

     3,175       2,962  

Bank-owned life insurance

     5,330       5,113  

Deferred income taxes

     811       781  

Other assets

     606       523  
    


 


Total assets

   $ 226,554     $ 212,054  
    


 


Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

                

Liabilities:

                

Deposits:

                

Demand (non-interest bearing)

   $ 41,208     $ 46,610  

Money market demand and NOW

     34,453       32,805  

Regular, club and money market savings

     39,948       34,106  

Time

     78,984       69,500  
    


 


Total deposits

     194,593       183,021  
                  

Borrowings under securities repurchase agreements

     5,654       5,723  

Accrued interest payable

     107       126  

Securities purchased, not yet settled

     4,000       2,529  

Other liabilities

     1,916       1,317  
    


 


Total liabilities

     206,270       192,716  
    


 


Stockholders’ equity:

                

Common stock, par value $0.01 per share. Authorized 5,000,000 shares; issued 1,288,432 shares at September 30, 2003 and 1,279,365 shares at December 31, 2002

     13       13  

Additional paid-in capital

     14,256       13,954  

Retained earnings

     7,071       6,205  

Treasury stock, at cost (52,061 shares at September 30, 2003 and 71,461 shares at December 31, 2002)

     (545 )     (749 )

Unearned restricted stock awards

     (558 )     (183 )

Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of taxes

     47       98  
    


 


Total stockholders’ equity

     20,284       19,338  
    


 


Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   $ 226,554     $ 212,054  
    


 


 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

1


CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003 AND 2002

(In thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

    

Three Months Ended

September 30,


     2003

   2002

Interest income:

             

Loans

   $ 2,178    $ 2,455

Securities

     357      460

Federal funds sold

     108      57
    

  

Total interest income

     2,643      2,972
    

  

Interest expense:

             

Deposits

     747      726

Borrowings

     18      23
    

  

Total interest expense

     765      749
    

  

Net interest income

     1,878      2,223

Provision for loan losses

     1      118
    

  

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

     1,877      2,105
    

  

Non-interest income:

             

Deposit service charges

     112      130

Gain on sale of loans and loan servicing, net

     375      166

Bank-owned life insurance

     49      54

Other

     201      167
    

  

Total non-interest income

     737      517
    

  

Non-interest expense:

             

Salaries and employee benefits

     1,091      1,044

Occupancy

     138      197

Furniture and equipment

     108      98

Data processing

     135      142

Professional fees

     114      84

Advertising and promotion

     45      57

Other

     239      222
    

  

Total non-interest expense

     1,870      1,844
    

  

Income before income tax expense

     744      778

Income tax expense

     293      266
    

  

Net income

   $ 451    $ 512
    

  

Earnings per common share (Note B):

             

Basic

   $ 0.37    $ 0.42

Diluted

     0.35      0.41
    

  

Weighted average common shares (Note B):

             

Basic

     1,204,049      1,205,660

Diluted

     1,270,929      1,237,669

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

2


CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003 AND 2002

(In thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

    

Nine Months Ended

September 30,


     2003

   2002

Interest income:

             

Loans

   $ 6,693    $ 7,015

Securities

     1,216      1,510

Federal funds sold

     341      156
    

  

Total interest income

     8,250      8,681
    

  

Interest expense:

             

Deposits

     2,244      2,262

Borrowings

     58      58
    

  

Total interest expense

     2,302      2,320
    

  

Net interest income

     5,948      6,361

Provision for loan losses

     176      230
    

  

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

     5,772      6,131
    

  

Non-interest income:

             

Deposit service charges

     343      376

Gain on sale of loans and loan servicing, net

Bank-owned life insurance

  

 

 

948

150

  

 

 

391

96

Other

     547      517
    

  

Total non-interest income

     1,988      1,380
    

  

Non-interest expense:

             

Salaries and employee benefits

     3,224      2,910

Occupancy

     502      575

Furniture and equipment

     311      284

Data processing

     418      420

Professional fees

     290      255

Advertising and promotion

     132      163

Other

     802      636
    

  

Total non-interest expense

     5,679      5,243
    

  

Income before income tax expense

     2,081      2,268

Income tax expense

     801      862
    

  

Net income

   $ 1,280    $ 1,406
    

  

Earnings per common share (Note B):

             

Basic

   $ 1.07    $ 1.18

Diluted

     1.02      1.15
    

  

Weighted average common shares (Note B):

             

Basic

     1,200,352      1,193,736

Diluted

     1,255,591      1,227,382

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

3


CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003 AND 2002

(In thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

     Common
Stock


   Additional
Paid-in
Capital


   Retained
Earnings


    Treasury
Stock


    Restricted
Stock


    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)


   

Total
Stockholders’

Equity


 

Balances at January 1, 2003

   $ 13    $ 13,954    $ 6,205     $ (749 )   $ (183 )   $ 98     $ 19,338  

Net income

                   1,280                               1,280  

Other comprehensive loss

                                           (51 )     (51 )
                                                  


Total comprehensive income

                                                   1,229  

Cash dividends ($0.338 per share)

                   (414 )                             (414 )

Shares issued in connection with:

                                                      

Restricted stock awards

            171              204       (375 )             —    

Stock option exercises

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

         

 

 

51

80

                                  

 

 

51

80

 

 

    

  

  


 


 


 


 


Balances at September 30, 2003

   $ 13    $ 14,256    $ 7,071     $ (545 )   $ (558 )   $ 47     $ 20,284  
    

  

  


 


 


 


 


                                                        

Balances at January 1, 2002

   $ 12    $ 11,816    $ 6,848     $ (880 )   $ —       $ 145     $ 17,941  

Net income

                   1,406                               1,406  

Other comprehensive loss

                                           (19 )     (19 )
                                                  


Total comprehensive income

                                                   1,387  

Cash dividends ($0.338 per share)

                   (393 )                             (393 )

Shares issued in connection with:

                                                      

Stock dividend

Restricted stock awards

     1   

 

 

1,932

52

     (1,933 )     131       (183 )          

 

 

—  

—  

 

 

Stock option exercises

            27                                      27  

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

Directors Compensation Plan

         

 

 

86

15

                                  

 

 

86

15

 

 

    

  

  


 


 


 


 


Balances at September 30, 2002

   $ 13    $ 13,928    $ 5,928     $ (749 )   $ (183 )   $ 126     $ 19,063  
    

  

  


 


 


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 

4


CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003 AND 2002

(In thousands)

(unaudited)

 

    

Nine Months Ended

September 30,


 
     2003

    2002

 

Operating activities:

                

Net income

   $ 1,280     $ 1,406  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

                

Depreciation and amortization

     458       424  

Provision for loan losses

     176       230  

Originations of loans held for sale

     (22,639 )     (10,096 )

Proceeds from sales of loans held for sale

     27,784       7,528  

Decrease (increase) in accrued interest receivable

     171       (67 )

Increase in other assets

     (83 )     (1,050 )

Decrease in accrued interest payable

     (19 )     (51 )

Increase in other liabilities

     599       910  

Income on bank-owned life insurance

     (150 )     (96 )

Other adjustments, net

     (425 )     154  
    


 


Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

     7,152       (708 )
    


 


Investing activities:

                

Proceeds from maturities and calls of securities available for sale

     4,001       3,000  

Proceeds from maturities and calls of securities held to maturity

     8,673       7,192  

Purchases of securities held to maturity

     (7,990 )     —    

Purchases of securities available for sale

     (2,529 )     —    

Net receipts (disbursements) for loan originations and principal repayments, other than loans held for sale

     7,257       (14,739 )

Purchases of bank-owned life insurance

     (67 )     (3,922 )

Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock

     (92 )     (55 )

Purchases of premises and equipment

     (509 )     (363 )
    


 


Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

     8,744       (8,887 )
    


 


Financing activities:

                

Net increase in deposits

     11,572       16,036  

Net decrease in borrowings under securities repurchase agreements

     (69 )     (2,258 )

Dividends paid on common stock

     (411 )     (379 )

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

     131       113  
    


 


Net cash provided by financing activities

     11,223       13,512  
    


 


Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

     27,119       3,917  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     34,204       24,299  
    


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 61,323     $ 28,216  
    


 


Supplemental information:

                

Interest payments

   $ 2,321     $ 2,371  

Income tax payments

     818       783  

Increase in liability for securities purchased, not yet settled

     1,471        

Loans transferred to repossessed assets

     —         190  
    


 


See accompanying notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.                 

 

5


CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands)

 

NOTE A – BASIS OF FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

 

The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Cornerstone Bancorp, Inc., its subsidiary Cornerstone Bank (the “Bank”) and the Bank’s subsidiary Cornerstone Business Credit, Inc. (“CBC”), collectively the “Company”. The interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial statements and the instructions to Form 10-QSB, and, accordingly, do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for a complete set of financial statements. While management believes that the disclosures presented are adequate so as not to make the information misleading, it is suggested that these interim consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the annual consolidated financial statements and notes included in the Form 10-KSB/A, Amendment Number One for the year ended December 31, 2002. The interim results of operations for the period ended September 30, 2003 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year ending December 31, 2003 or for any other interim period.

 

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring accruals, necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows at the dates and for the periods presented. In preparing the interim consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the statement of condition and revenues and expenses for the period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates, as a result of changing conditions and future events. An estimate that is particularly critical and susceptible to significant near-term change is the allowance for loan losses.

 

Prior period amounts are reclassified, whenever necessary, to conform to the current period presentation.

 

NOTE B – EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) excludes dilution and is computed by dividing income available to common stockholders (net income less dividends on preferred stock, if any) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. For this purpose, unvested shares of restricted stock are not considered to be outstanding. Diluted EPS is computed in a similar manner, except that the weighted average number of common shares is increased (using the treasury stock method) by additional common shares that would have been outstanding if all potentially dilutive securities (such as stock options and unvested restricted stock awards) were exercised or vested during the period. For the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, the number of shares for diluted EPS exceeded the number of shares for basic EPS due to the dilutive effect of outstanding stock options and unvested restricted stock. For purposes of computing basic EPS, net income applicable to common stock equaled net income for these periods.

 

6


NOTE C – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and related interpretations. Accordingly, compensation expense is not recognized for fixed stock options if the exercise price of the option equals the fair value of the underlying stock at the grant date. The fair value of restricted stock awards, measured at the grant date, is recognized as unearned compensation (a component of stockholders’ equity) and amortized to compensation expense over the vesting period.

 

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, encourages the use of a fair-value-based method of accounting for employee stock compensation plans, but permits the continued use of the intrinsic-value-based method of accounting prescribed by APB Opinion No. 25. Under SFAS No. 123, the grant-date fair value of options is recognized as compensation expense over the vesting period (if any). The Company has elected to continue to apply APB Opinion No. 25 and disclose the pro forma information required by SFAS No. 123. Had stock-based compensation expense been recognized in accordance with SFAS No. 123, the Company’s net income and earnings per common share would have been adjusted to the following pro forma amounts:

 

      

Three Months

Ended

September 30,


      

Nine Months

Ended

September 30,


 
       2003

     2002

       2003

     2002

 
      

(In thousands, except

per share data)

      

(In thousands, except

per share data)

 

Net income, as reported

     $ 451      $ 512        $ 1,280      $ 1,406  

Add restricted stock expense included in reported net income, net of related tax effects

       11        6          33        17  

Deduct restricted stock and stock option expense determined under the fair-value-based method, net of related tax effects

       (11 )      (6 )        (38 )      (41 )
      


  


    


  


Pro forma net income

     $ 451      $ 512        $ 1,275      $ 1,382  
      


  


    


  


Basic earnings per common share:

                                       

As reported

     $ 0.37      $ 0.42        $ 1.07      $ 1.18  

Pro forma

       0.37        0.42          1.06        1.16  
      


  


    


  


Diluted earnings per common share:

                                       

As reported

     $ 0.35      $ 0.41        $ 1.02      $ 1.15  

Pro forma

       0.35        0.41          1.02        1.13  
      


  


    


  


 

7


NOTE D – COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

 

Comprehensive income (loss) includes net income or loss, and any changes in stockholders’ equity from non-owner sources that are not recognized in the income statement (such as changes in net unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale). Other comprehensive loss reported in the statements of stockholders’ equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 represents the change during those periods in the after-tax net unrealized gain on securities available for sale.

 

NOTE E – STANDBY LETTERS OF CREDIT

 

The Company had outstanding letters of credit of $1,338 and $1,650 at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively. Substantially all of the Company’s outstanding standby letters of credit are performance standby letters of credit within the scope of FASB Interpretation No. 45, Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others (“FIN 45”). These are irrevocable undertakings by the Company, as guarantor, to make payments in the event a specified third party fails to perform under a non-financial contractual obligation. Most of the Company’s performance standby letters of credit arise in connection with lending relationships and have terms of one year or less. The maximum potential future payments the Company could be required to make equals the contract amount of the standby letters of credit referred to above. FIN 45 also requires the recognition, at fair value, of a liability by a guarantor at the inception of certain guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002. The Company’s recognized liability for performance standby letters of credit was insignificant at September 30, 2003.

 

NOTE F – RECENT ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

 

SFAS No. 149, Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, was issued in April 2003 to clarify the application of certain aspects of the accounting for these instruments and activities. The adoption of SFAS No. 149, which is generally effective for transactions after June 30, 2003, did not have a significant effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

SFAS No. 150, Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity, was issued in May 2003. Under the Statement, certain freestanding financial instruments that embody obligations for the issuer and that are now classified in equity, must be classified as liabilities (or as assets in some circumstances). As originally issued, SFAS No. 150 was generally effective for financial instruments of public entities entered into or modified after May 31, 2003 and otherwise as of the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2003. However, the effective date of the Statement’s provisions related to the classification and measurement of certain mandatorily redeemable non-controlling interests has been deferred indefinitely by the FASB, pending further Board action. Adoption of this standard is not expected to have a significant effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

8


Item 2.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis or Plan of Operation

(dollars in thousands)

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

The statements contained in this report that are not historical are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Examples of such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding expectations for earnings, credit quality, and other financial and business matters. When used in this report, the words “anticipate,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect” and similar expressions as they relate to the Company or its management are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those discussed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including but not limited to, competitive pressures on loan and deposit product pricing; other actions of competitors; changes in economic conditions; technological changes; the extent and timing of actions of the Federal Reserve Board, including changes in monetary policies and interest rates; customer deposit disintermediation; changes in customers’ acceptance of the Bank’s products and services; and the extent and timing of legislative and regulatory actions and reforms.

 

The forward-looking statements contained in this report speak only as of the date on which such statements are made.

 

FINANCIAL CONDITION

 

General

 

Total assets increased to $226,554 at September 30, 2003 from $212,054 at December 31, 2002, an increase of $14,500 (or 7%). The increase in cash and cash equivalents of $27,119 was funded principally by an increase in deposits of $11,572 and decreases in net loans of $7,445 and loans held for sale of $4,711.

 

Loans

 

The net loan portfolio (excluding loans held for sale) decreased to $114,030 at September 30, 2003 from $121,475 at December 31, 2002, a decrease of $7,445 (or 6%). The decrease in residential real estate loans in the first nine months of 2003 resulted from refinance activity, principal repayments and scheduled payoffs by consumers and commercial customers, which exceeded new loan originations for the period. The decrease in residential real estate loans was partially offset by increases in non-residential, commercial and construction loans.

 

9


Major classifications of loans at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002 were as follows:

 

    

September 30,

2003


   

December 31,

2002


   

Dollar

Change


   

Percent

Change


 

Loans secured by real estate:

                              

Residential

   $ 36,276     $ 46,085     $ (9,809 )   (21 %)

Non-residential

     51,804       49,977       1,827     4  

Construction

     11,750       11,429       321     3  

Commercial loans

     14,520       14,024       496     4  

Consumer and other loans

     2,159       2,259       (100 )   (4 )
    


 


 


     

Total loans

     116,509       123,774       (7,265 )   (6 )

Allowance for loan losses

     (2,430 )     (2,234 )     196     9  

Deferred loan fees, net

     (49 )     (65 )     (16 )   (25 )
    


 


 


     

Total loans, net

   $ 114,030     $ 121,475     $ (7,445 )   (6 %)
    


 


 


     

 

Residential mortgage loans held for sale at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002 were $1,908 and $7,057, respectively. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) loans held for sale at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002 were $625 and $187, respectively.

 

Non-performing Loans and the Allowance for Loan Losses

 

It is the Bank’s policy to manage its loan portfolio to facilitate early recognition of problem loans. The Bank commences internal collection efforts once a loan payment is more than 15 days past due. The Bank’s data processing system generates delinquency reports on all of the Bank’s loans weekly, and management reviews the loan portfolio to determine if past due loans should be placed on non-accrual status. Unless the customer is working with the Bank toward repayment, once a loan payment is 90 days past due, the Bank generally initiates appropriate collection or legal action.

 

10


The following table summarizes, by type of loan, the recorded investment in non-performing loans at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002. Amounts are shown for (i) loans that were past due 90 days or more, segregated between those on non-accrual status and those that were still accruing interest, and (ii) loans that were current or past due less than 90 days for which interest payments were being applied to reduce principal balances.

 

     September 30,
2003


    December 31,
2002


 

Loans on non-accrual status:

                

Loans secured by residential real estate

   $ 652     $ —    

Loans secured by commercial real estate

     —         149  
    


 


       652       149  
    


 


Loans on accrual status:

                

Loans secured by real estate

     444       1,480  

Commercial loans

     43       122  

Consumer and other loans

     2       7  
    


 


       489       1,609  
    


 


Total loans past due 90 days or more

     1,141       1,758  
    


 


Loans current or past due less than 90 days for which interest payments were being applied to reduce principal balances:

                

Loans secured by real estate

     30       11  

Commercial loans

     232       —    
    


 


       262       11  
    


 


Total non-performing loans

   $ 1,403     $ 1,769  
    


 


Ratio of total non-performing loans to total loans outstanding

     1.20 %     1.43 %
    


 


 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2003, loans past due 90 days or more decreased by $617. Repayments of approximately $1,292 on loans secured by real estate past due 90 days or more and on accrual status at December 31, 2002 were received in January 2003. The repayment was partially offset by the addition of $673 in loans to another borrower, which became more than 90 days delinquent during the nine months ended September 30, 2003.

 

During the quarter ended September 30, 2003, approximately $14 was applied to income due to the payoff of former non-accrual loans and $69 was applied to income due to the payoff of a loan which was currently on non-accrual status. During the nine months

 

11


ended September 30, 2003, approximately $111 was applied to income due to the payoff of former non-accrual loans and $69 was applied to income due to the payoff of a loan which was currently on non-accrual status.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2002, the Bank recovered all principal and other amounts due on four non-accrual loans to one borrower. This recovery resulted in additional loan interest income of $175 (a recovery of interest previously applied to reduce principal on the aforementioned loans) and an additional $8 in late charge income. During the quarter ended September 30, 2002, one loan in the amount of $294 secured by real estate, which was past due less than 90 days and for which interest payments were being applied to reduce the principal balance, was paid-off. This payoff resulted in additional loan interest income of $41 (a recovery of interest previously applied to reduce principal on the aforementioned loan).

 

The following table sets forth changes in the allowance for loan losses for the periods indicated.

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,


    Nine Months Ended
September 30,


 
     2003

    2002

    2003

    2002

 

Balance at beginning of period

   $ 2,424     $ 1,949     $ 2,234     $ 1,848  

Provision for loan losses

     1       118       176       230  

Loan charge-offs

     (5 )     (9 )     (7 )     (23 )

Recoveries

     10       63       27       66  
    


 


 


 


Balance at end of period

   $ 2,430     $ 2,121     $ 2,430     $ 2,121  
    


 


 


 


 

The ratios of the allowance for loan losses to total loans and to non-performing loans were 2.09% and 173% respectively, at September 30, 2003, compared to 1.81% and 126%, respectively, at December 31, 2002.

 

In addition to non-performing loans, the Company had non-performing assets at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, in the form of repossessed aircraft with a carrying amount of $24 and $81, respectively (included in other assets in the consolidated statements of condition). Total non-performing assets of $1,427 represented 0.63% of total assets at September 30, 2003, compared to $1,850 or 0.87% of total assets at December 31, 2002.

 

Securities

 

Total securities decreased to $37,223 at September 30, 2003 from $38,150 at December 31, 2002, a decrease of $927 (or 2%). The decrease in the securities portfolio was primarily due to maturities and principal paydowns totaling $12,674, partially offset by purchases of $7,990 in securities held to maturity and $4,000 in securities available for sale.

 

12


The following table sets forth the amortized cost and estimated fair value of the securities portfolio at the dates indicated.

 

     September 30, 2003

   December 31, 2002

     Amortized
Cost


   Estimated
Fair
Value


   Amortized
Cost


   Estimated
Fair
Value


Available for sale

                           

U.S. Agency securities

   $ 9,547    $ 9,622    $ 9,082    $ 9,242

Mortgage-backed securities

     1,638      1,640      2,152      2,150
    

  

  

  

     $ 11,185    $ 11,262    $ 11,234    $ 11,392
    

  

  

  

Held to maturity

                           

U.S. Agency securities

   $ 20,113    $ 20,726    $ 20,746    $ 21,657

Mortgage-backed securities

     2,782      2,870      5,937      6,079

Municipal bonds

     2,991      3,013      —        —  

Other

     75      75      75      75
    

  

  

  

     $ 25,961    $ 26,684    $ 26,758    $ 27,811
    

  

  

  

Total

   $ 37,146    $ 37,946    $ 37,992    $ 39,203
    

  

  

  

 

Deposits

 

Deposits are the primary source of funds for the Company. Deposits are obtained from individuals, partnerships, small and medium size businesses and professionals in the Company’s market area. The Company does not accept brokered deposits.

 

The following table indicates the composition of deposits at the dates indicated.

 

     September 30,
2003


   December 31,
2002


   Dollar
Change


    Percent
Change


 

Demand (non-interest bearing)

   $ 41,208    $ 46,610    $ (5,402 )   (12 )%

Money market demand and NOW

     34,453      32,805      1,648     5  

Regular, club and money market savings

     39,948      34,106      5,842     17  

Time

     78,984      69,500      9,484     14  
    

  

  


     

Total

   $ 194,593    $ 183,021    $ 11,572     6 %
    

  

  


     

 

13


The decrease in demand deposits was primarily related to the decrease of approximately $11,000 in the account balance held by one customer, partially offset by the increase in internal Bank demand deposit accounts that are used to fund loan disbursements and customer purchases of official checks. The increases in money market demand and NOW accounts, as well as regular, club and money market savings were primarily due to normal growth in customer deposit balances. During the first nine months of 2003, increases in time deposits were primarily attributable to continued growth in 12-17 month and 18-23 month certificates of deposit of $10,602 and $7,575, respectively. This growth was partially offset by decreases of $5,909 in 91-180 day certificates of deposit, $1,451 in 24-30 month certificates of deposit, $811 in 60 month certificates of deposit and $740 in 36-47 month certificates of deposit. The $9,484 (or 14%) overall increase in time deposits reflects the competitive rates offered by the Bank during 2003, as well as national economic uncertainty, particularly in the equity markets, which prompted customers to seek bank deposits as an alternative to investing in the equity markets. Certificates of deposit in denominations of $100 or more were $18,880 at September 30, 2003 compared to $18,415 at December 31, 2002, an increase of $465 (or 3%).

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

At September 30, 2003, total short-term investments, which are made up of federal funds sold and securities maturing or callable in one year or less, totaled $71,779. The primary liquidity of the Company is measured by the ratio of net cash, short-term investments, and other liquidity sources to deposits and short-term liabilities. The primary liquidity ratio at September 30, 2003 was 36.22%, compared to 17.89% at December 31, 2002. The Bank also calculates a secondary liquidity ratio which contemplates loan sales and loan payoffs anticipated to occur within one year and the maturity of available and held to maturity securities beyond one year. The Bank’s secondary liquidity ratio at September 30, 2003 was 51.24%, compared to 34.92% at December 31, 2002. The increases in primary and secondary liquidity ratios in 2003 are primarily a result of the Bank’s increased federal fund position at September 30, 2003 as compared to December 31, 2002. The effect of the higher level of federal funds was partially offset by an increase in deposits and short-term liabilities at September 30, 2003 compared to December 31, 2002. The Company’s internal guideline is to generally maintain a primary liquidity ratio of 10 to 15% and a secondary liquidity ratio of 20% or more, although a higher primary ratio may be maintained from time to time depending on cash flow patterns and loan demand.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was $7,152 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 as compared to $708 used in operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, primarily reflecting net cash inflows from loans held for sale in the first nine months of 2003 compared to net cash outflows in the same period last year. Compared to the first nine months of 2002, cash used in investing activities decreased $17,631, primarily due to the effect of net loan receipts of $7,257 during the nine months ended September 30, 2003 as compared to net loan disbursements of $14,739 during the nine months ended September 30, 2002. The decrease in net cash provided by financing activities of $2,289 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, primarily resulted from a decrease in cash provided by deposits. Cash and cash equivalents increased $27,119 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, compared to $3,917 in the first nine months of 2002.

 

At September 30, 2003, the Company had outstanding loan commitments under unused lines of credit of $14,219 and outstanding letters of credit of $1,338.

 

14


At September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, the Company’s consolidated leverage capital ratio was 9.1% and 9.2%, respectively. At September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, the Company’s consolidated Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio was 14.0% and 13.0%, respectively. The Company’s consolidated total risk-based capital ratio at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002 was 15.2% and 14.2%, respectively. The Bank’s regulatory capital ratios at these dates were substantially the same as the consolidated ratios, and the Bank was classified as a well-capitalized institution for regulatory purposes.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

General

 

The Company’s results of operations depend primarily on its net interest income, which is the difference between the interest income on earning assets, such as loans and securities, and the interest expense paid on deposits and borrowings. Results of operations are also affected by non-interest income and expense, the provision for loan losses and income tax expense. Non-interest income includes banking service fees and charges, income on bank-owned life insurance, and gains and losses on sales of securities available for sale and loans held for sale. The Company’s non-interest expense consists primarily of salaries and employee benefits, occupancy and equipment expenses, data processing expenses and professional fees. Results of operations are also significantly affected by general economic and competitive conditions, particularly changes in market interest rates, government policies and actions of regulatory authorities.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

In the course of the Company’s normal business activity, management must select and apply many accounting policies and methodologies that lead to the financial results presented in the consolidated financial statements of the Company. Some of these policies are more critical than others. Management considers the accounting policy relating to the allowance for loan losses to be a critical accounting policy because of the uncertainty and subjectivity inherent in estimating the levels of allowance needed to cover probable credit losses within the loan portfolio and the material effect that these estimates can have on the Company’s results of operations. While management uses the best available information to determine the allowance for loan losses, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary based on a variety of factors, including changes in economic and real estate market conditions, particularly in Southwestern Fairfield County, Connecticut.

 

All accounting policies are important and readers of this report should review these policies, as included in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-KSB/A, Amendment Number One, to gain a greater understanding of how the Company’s financial performance is reported.

 

Comparative Analysis of Operating Results for the Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 and September 30, 2002

 

Net Income. Net income was $451 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $512 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, a decrease of $61 (or 12%). Diluted earnings per common share were $0.35 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 and $0.41 for the three months ended September 30, 2002 based on weighted average common shares of 1,270,929 and 1,237,669,

 

15


respectively. The annualized return on average common stockholders’ equity was 8.90% and 10.80% for the three months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The annualized return on average assets was 0.80% for the three months ended September 30, 2003 and 1.05% for the three months ended September 30, 2002.

 

The lower net income for the three months ended September 30, 2003 was attributable to a reduction in net interest income and increases in non-interest expenses and income tax expense, which were partially offset by an increase in non-interest income and a decrease in the provision for loan losses.

 

Net Interest Income. Net interest income is the difference between the interest income the Company earns on its loans, securities and other earning assets, and the interest cost of deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities necessary to fund these earning assets. It is the primary component of the Company’s earnings.

 

Net interest income was $1,878 for the three months ended September 30, 2003, a decrease of $345 (or 16%) from the $2,223 reported for the three months ended September 30, 2002. The average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 169 basis points for the quarter ended September 30, 2003 compared to September 30, 2002, while the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities decreased 41 basis points. Declining interest rates during 2003 and 2002 directly impacted the yields on the Company’s variable rate loans tied to the prime rate and on federal funds sold, and indirectly impacted the yields on other interest-earning assets as a result of the general decline in market interest rates. The increased average volume of interest-earning assets (primarily federal funds sold) partially offset the general decline in market rates. These declining market rates also contributed to the decline in the average rate paid on time certificates of deposit, which was more than offset by the increased average volume of deposits. These changes resulted in a 144 basis point decrease in the net interest margin to 3.59% for the quarter ended September 30, 2003 compared to 5.03% for the quarter ended September 30, 2002.

 

Interest Income. Average earning assets for the three months ended September 30, 2003 were $209,021 compared to $175,282 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $33,739 (or 19%). Total interest income, which is a function of the volume of interest-earning assets and their related rates, was $2,643 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $2,972 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, representing a decrease of $329 (or 11%).

 

Loans represent the largest component of interest-earning assets. Interest income on loans was $2,178 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $2,455 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, a decrease of $277 (or 11%). Average loan volume decreased slightly during the quarter ended September 30, 2003 compared to September 30, 2002, but the declining yields on the Company’s loan portfolio had a more significant effect on interest income. Average loans outstanding in the three months ended September 30, 2003 were $123,006 compared to $124,002 during the three months ended September 30, 2002, a decrease of $996 (or 1%). The average yield on loans declined 82 basis points to 7.03% for the quarter ended September 30, 2003 from 7.85% for the quarter ended September 30, 2002.

 

Average investments in securities and federal funds sold were $86,015 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $51,280 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $34,735 (or 68%). Related income decreased to $465 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 from $517 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, a decrease of $52 (or 10%). Average

 

16


investments in securities, not including federal funds sold, increased by $2,977 (or 8%) during the three months ended September 30, 2003. The decrease in income from securities was due to a decrease in the yield on new securities purchased, which was partially offset by the increase in the average volume of securities. Average federal funds sold increased by $31,758 (or 232%). The increase in federal funds is primarily due to management’s review of the appropriate level of funds necessary to meet liquidity needs, as well as the continued growth in deposits and the decline in the loan portfolio. The declines in the yield on the Company’s investment securities and federal funds sold to 3.62% and 0.94%, respectively, in the third quarter of 2003 from 4.84% and 1.67%, respectively, in the year-ago quarter were partially offset by the increased volumes.

 

Interest Expense. Interest expense was $765 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $749 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, a 2% increase. Interest expense is a function of the volume of interest-bearing liabilities and their related rates. Average interest-bearing liabilities during the three months ended September 30, 2003 were $159,750 compared to $128,658 during the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $31,092 (or 24%). The decrease in market interest rates resulted in a decline in the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities of 41 basis points to 1.90% for the quarter ended September 30, 2003 compared to 2.31% the quarter ended September 30, 2002. This decrease in rate was more than offset by additional interest expense due to the increase in the volume of deposits.

 

Provision for Loan Losses. The periodic provision for loan losses represents the amount necessary to adjust the allowance for loan losses to management’s estimate of probable credit losses inherent in the existing loan portfolio at the reporting date. Management’s determination of the allowance for loan losses is based on the results of continuing reviews of individual loans and borrower relationships, particularly in the commercial and commercial real estate loan portfolios. A review of the quality of the loan portfolio is conducted internally by management on a quarterly basis, using a consistently-applied methodology, and the results are presented to the Board of Directors for approval. The evaluation covers individual borrowers whose aggregate loans are greater than $100, as well as all adversely-classified loans. Management also considers factors such as the borrower’s financial condition, historical and expected ability to make loan payments and underlying collateral values. The determination of the allowance for loan losses also considers the level of past due loans, the Bank’s historical loan loss experience, changes in loan portfolio mix, geographic and borrower concentrations and current economic conditions. The allowance for loan losses is also reduced by charge-offs and increased by recoveries. Management’s evaluation of the allowance for loan losses indicated that the necessary provision for loan losses was $1 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 and $118 for the three months ended September 30, 2002. Net loan recoveries were $5 in the quarter ended September 30, 2003 compared to net loan recoveries of $54 in the third quarter last year.

 

At September 30, 2003, the Company had $1,403 of non-performing loans, including $652 of non-accrual loans and $489 of accruing loans greater than 90 days past due. Loans less than 90 days past due for which interest payments were being applied to reduce principal balances were $262 at September 30, 2003. At December 31, 2002, the Company had $1,769 of non-performing loans, including $149 of non-accrual loans and $1,609 of accruing loans greater than 90 days past due. Loans less than 90 days past due for which interest payments were being applied to reduce principal balances were $11 at December 31, 2002.

 

17


Non-interest Income. Non-interest income was $737 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $517 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $220 (or 43%). The $209 increase in the net gain on sale of loans and loan servicing for the three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to September 30, 2002 relates to the increased volume of sales of (i) participating interests in Small Business Administration loans and (ii) newly-originated residential mortgage loans and the related servicing rights.

 

Non-interest Expense. Total non-interest expense was $1,870 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 and $1,844 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $26 (or 1%).

 

The following table summarizes the dollar amounts for each category of non-interest expense, and the dollar and percent changes:

 

    

Three Months Ended

September 30,


  

Increase (Decrease)

2003 vs 2002


 
Category    2003

   2002

   $ Change

    % Change

 

Salaries and employee benefits

   $ 1,091    $ 1,044    $ 47     5 %

Occupancy

     138      197      (59 )   (30 )

Furniture and equipment

     108      98      10     10  

Data processing

     135      142      (7 )   (5 )

Professional fees

     114      84      30     36  

Advertising and promotion

     45      57      (12 )   (21 )

Other

     239      222      17     8  
    

  

  


     

Total non-interest expense

   $ 1,870    $ 1,844    $ 26     1 %
    

  

  


     

 

The decrease in occupancy expense is primarily due to the reduction in rent expense resulting from the closure of the West Broad Street office in November 2002. The increase in professional fees is primarily due to increased consulting expense.

 

18


The following table summarizes dollar amounts for each category of non-interest expense as a percentage of total operating income (interest income plus non-interest income). Operating income decreased by $109 (or 3%) in the third quarter of 2003 compared to the same period in 2002.

 

    

Three Months Ended

September 30,


 
Category    2003

    2002

 

Salaries and employee benefits

   32.28 %   29.93 %

Occupancy

   4.08     5.65  

Furniture and equipment

   3.20     2.81  

Data processing

   3.99     4.07  

Professional fees

   3.37     2.41  

Advertising and promotion

   1.34     1.63  

Other

   7.07     6.37  
    

 

Total non-interest expense

   55.33 %   52.87 %
    

 

 

Income Taxes. The provision for income taxes increased to $293 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 from $266 for the three months ended September 30, 2002, primarily as a result of revised estimates of the effective tax rates expected for the respective annual periods.

 

Comparative Analysis of Operating Results for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and September 30, 2002

 

Net Income. Net income was $1,280 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $1,406 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, a decrease of $126 (or 9%). Diluted earnings per common share were $1.02 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and $1.15 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 based on weighted average common shares of 1,255,591 and 1,227,382, respectively. The annualized return on average common stockholders’ equity was 8.65% and 10.20% for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The annualized return on average assets was 0.77% for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 1.01% for the nine months ended September 30, 2002.

 

The lower net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 was attributable to a reduction in net interest income and an increase in non-interest expense. These factors were partially offset by increased non-interest income and, to a lesser extent, decreases in income tax expense and the provision for loan losses.

 

Net Interest Income. Net interest income was $5,948 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, a decrease of $413 from the $6,361 reported for the nine months ended September 30, 2002. The average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 150 basis points to 5.32% for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to 6.82% for September 30, 2002, while the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities decreased 43 basis points to 2.01% from 2.44%. Declining interest rates during 2003 and 2002 directly impacted the yields on the Company’s variable rate loans tied to the prime rate and on federal funds sold, and indirectly impacted the yields on other interest-earning assets as a result of the general decline in market interest rates. The increased average volume of interest-earning assets (primarily federal funds sold) partially offset the general decline in market rates. These declining market rates also

 

19


contributed to the decline in the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities which was substantially offset by the increased volume of deposits. These changes resulted in a 116 basis point decrease in the net interest margin to 3.84% for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to 5.00% for the nine months ended September 30, 2002.

 

Interest Income. Average earning assets for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 were $207,347 compared to $170,104 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $37,243 (or 22%). Total interest income, which is a function of the volume of interest-earning assets and their related rates, was $8,250 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $8,681 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, representing a decrease of $431 (or 5%).

 

Loans represent the largest component of interest-earning assets. Average loans outstanding in the nine months ended September 30, 2003 were $122,531 compared to $116,915 during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $5,616 (or 5%). Interest income on loans was $6,693 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $7,015 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, a decrease of $322 (or 5%). Average loan volume increased during the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to September 30, 2002 but was more than offset by declining yields on the Company’s loan portfolio (7.30% in the first nine months of 2003 compared to 8.02% for the same period in 2002).

 

Average investments in securities and federal funds sold were $84,816 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $53,189 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $31,627 (or 59%). Related income decreased to $1,557 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 from $1,666 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, a decrease of $109 (or 7%). Average investments in securities, not including federal funds sold, increased by $2,645 (or 7%) during the nine months ended September 30, 2003. The decrease in income from securities was due to a decrease in the yield on new securities purchased, which was partially offset by an increase in the average volume of securities. Average federal funds sold increased by $28,982 (or 230%). The increase in federal funds is primarily due to management’s review of the appropriate level of funds necessary to meet liquidity needs, as well as the continued growth in deposits and decline in the loan portfolio. The declines in the yield on the Company’s investment securities and federal funds sold to 3.78% and 1.10%, respectively, in the first nine months of 2003 from 4.97% and 1.66%, respectively, in the year-ago period were substantially offset by the increased volumes.

 

Interest Expense. Interest expense was $2,302 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $2,320 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, a 1% decrease. Interest expense is a function of the volume of interest-bearing liabilities and their related rates. Average interest-bearing liabilities during the nine months ended September 30, 2003 were $152,390 compared to $126,790 during the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $25,600 (or 20%). The decrease in market interest rates resulted in a decline in the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities of 43 basis points to 2.01% for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to 2.44% for the nine months ended September 30, 2002. This decrease in rate was substantially offset by additional interest expense due to the increase in the volume of deposits.

 

Provision for Loan Losses. Management’s evaluation of the allowance for loan losses indicated that the necessary provision for loan losses was $176 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and $230

 

20


for the nine months ended September 30, 2002. Net loan recoveries were $20 in the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to net loan recoveries of $43 in the first nine months of last year.

 

Non-interest Income. Non-interest income was $1,988 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to $1,380 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $608 (or 44%). The $557 increase in the net gain on sale of loans and loan servicing for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to September 30, 2002 relates to the increased volume of sales of (i) participating interests in SBA loans and (ii) newly-originated residential mortgage loans and the related servicing rights. Income on bank-owned life insurance increased by $54 compared to the first nine months of 2002, due to a significant purchase made at the end of the first quarter of 2002.

 

Non-interest Expense. Total non-interest expense was $5,679 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and $5,243 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, an increase of $436 (or 8%).

 

The following table summarizes the dollar amounts for each category of non-interest expense, and the dollar and percent changes:

 

    

Nine Months
Ended

September 30,


  

Increase (Decrease)

2003 vs 2002


 
Category    2003

   2002

   $ Change

    % Change

 

Salaries and employee benefits

   $ 3,224    $ 2,910    $ 314     11 %

Occupancy

     502      575      (73 )   (13 )

Furniture and equipment

     311      284      27     10  

Data processing

     418      420      (2 )   —    

Professional fees

     290      255      35     14  

Advertising and promotion

     132      163      (31 )   (19 )

Other

     802      636      166     26  
    

  

  


     

Total non-interest expense

   $ 5,679    $ 5,243    $ 436     8 %
    

  

  


     

 

The increase in salaries and employee benefits includes the addition of two employees, salary increases, staff and executive bonuses and, to a lesser extent, expenses related to the salary continuation plan for executive officers. The decrease in occupancy expense is primarily due to the reduction in rent expense resulting from the closure of the West Broad Street office in November 2002. The increase in professional fees is primarily due to increased consulting expense. Increased other non-interest expense primarily relates to increased fees related to donations, SBA expenses, insurance expense and regulatory assessments. These increases were partially offset by a reduction in appraisal fees, travel and entertainment, as well as printing and stationery expense.

 

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The following table summarizes dollar amounts for each category of non-interest expense as a percentage of total operating income (interest income plus non-interest income). Operating income increased by $177 (or 2%) for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to the same period in 2002.

 

    

Nine Months
Ended

September 30,


 
Category    2003

    2002

 

Salaries and employee benefits

   31.49 %   28.92 %

Occupancy

   4.90     5.72  

Furniture and equipment

   3.04     2.82  

Data processing

   4.08     4.17  

Professional fees

   2.83     2.53  

Advertising and promotion

   1.29     1.62  

Other

   7.83     6.32  
    

 

Total non-interest expense

   55.47 %   52.11 %
    

 

 

Income Taxes. The provision for income taxes decreased to $801 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 from $862 for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, principally reflecting the decrease in pre-tax income.

 

Item 3.   Controls and Procedures

 

An evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2003 was conducted under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were adequate and designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in this report is recorded, processed, summarized and reported in a timely manner, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

During the quarter ended September 30, 2003, there was no significant change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Reference is made to the Certifications of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer about these and other matters included as Exhibits to this report.

 

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PART II—Other Information

 

Item 6.   Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

 

(a) Exhibits:

 

31.1-Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification.

 

31.2-Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification.

 

32.1-Section 1350 Certifications.

 

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

 

The Company filed the following reports on Form 8-K during the quarter ended September 30, 2003:

 

1. Form 8-K filed on July 28, 2003 reporting earnings for the calendar quarter, and six months ended June 30, 2003.

 

2. Form 8-K filed on September 22, 2003 reporting cash dividend.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, the Registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized

 

       

CORNERSTONE BANCORP, INC.

(Registrant)

Date: November 13, 2003                   /s/    Merrill J. Forgotson         
         
               

Merrill J. Forgotson

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Date: November 13, 2003                   /s/    Ernest J. Verrico       
         
               

Ernest J. Verrico

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

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